LIFESTYLE: How To Prevent Damp Inside Your Home

 Damp is one of the worst things that can happen inside your home, as it can ignite a number of different issues concerning both the health of your property and the health of yourself and your family. Damp can weaken your properties structure, while causing respiratory conditions amongst other illnesses. It's vital that you take the most appropriate steps to prevent damp from occurring inside your home, but thankfully this guide contains a whole host of different tips and tricks that you can make the most of to keep your property as dry as possible. So, if you're interested in finding out more, then read on! 


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Keep Your Windows Open 


One of the worst mistakes that you can make while attempting to prevent dampness is to keep your windows closed, as you need to allow a constant stream of fresh air into your property to circulate around each and every room. Leaving your windows closed can make your home stuffy and stale, and if you take a shower, cook or wash up without opening a window, then you will be letting condensation build up excessively. Take the time to open one window inside each room every morning to allow some fresh air inside, and keep at least one window open throughout the day to ensure you always have a steady flow of clean, dry air refreshing your property. Even if it's raining outside, open a covered window a couple of centimetres if you can. 


Clear Your Gutters 


Another cause of damp that can have a serious impact on your home's structure is clogged up gutters, as leaves, branches and other natural debris can easily build up in your gutters and cause poor water disposal. If your gutters are filled to the brim with junk, then the water that covers your home during intense rainfall will not be properly drained and can subsequently begin to pool up in the wrong location. This means water can actually start to make its way inside your home, whether this means seeping through your roof or absorbing into your walls. Getting in touch with an experienced team of professionals such as the Gutter Boy cleaning team is the ideal way to avoid such scenarios from troubling your home, preventing damp more effectively than ever. 


Invest In A Dehumidifier


Last but by no means least, if you feel that your home is at greater risk of damp, it's a good idea to invest in a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier removes moisture from the hair, helping to keep your home as dry as possible. Dehumidifiers come in all styles and sizes, with industrial models large enough to dry out your entire home, to personal dehumidifiers ideal for one room. You'll soon be able to identify whether your home is suffering from damp, as the dehumidifier will fill up with water that you can then dispose of in an outdoor drain. 


Preventing damp has never been so easy when you can make the most of the effective ideas described above!


LIFESTYLE: Planning Your Next Vacation? Here's 4 Things To Consider

 If you have been waiting for the light at the end of the Covid-19 tunnel then you are in luck. Places and destinations are starting to open up again after nearly two years and you can start thinking about vacations once again. You might have been one of the unfortunate ones who had vacations canceled or rescheduled due to Covid, if this is the case you might be on the lookout to book something. 


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Type Of Vacation


The first step in working out where you are going to go on vacation is the type of holiday you wish to go on. There are so many different types here and it is up to you on personal preference what you want to do. For example, you might be a sun-seeker and want to spend your days by the pool or on the beach, if this is the case then a beach holiday will be just the type of vacation you need. Other types of vacations include ski trips, camping, city breaks, or safaris. 


Destination 


Once you have decided on the type of vacation you want to go on you need to decide on a destination. This is important and needs to fit in with your vacation budget, it is important you don’t go over budget and leave yourself short. Many holiday and travel agents will have great deals on 7 or 14-day trips, it all depends on where you want to go. A simple internet check may also bring up some good vacation ideas, however, you have to be careful that they are reputable. 


If your destination is nearby and you have chosen to do a camping trip then you might decide that hiring a car is better than using your own, the benefits of this include not adding mileage to your own car. You can use companies such as Ace rent a car to get from A to B on your travels. 


Travel Documents


When you are going away, especially abroad it is important you ensure you have all the documents you need for a successful trip. This includes your passport and any visas that you may need for the country you are visiting. Something else that is quite commonly forgotten about is travel vaccinations. If for example, you are going on an African safari then you might be needing vaccines to protect you from any diseases such as yellow fever or malaria. 


Activities


Finally, when you are on vacation you can choose to take part in any excursions and trips that interest you. Some common ones include boat trips, swimming with dolphins if they are resident in the country you are visiting, and trips to theme parks. There is no pressure to do anything while you are on holiday but it may be nice to get out and see the sites


We hope you found this helpful and it gave you some useful advice on planning your next vacation. Don’t forget that you don’t need to go abroad for some vacation fun, you can plan a staycation and explore your home town some more. 


LIFESTYLE: How to Make Your Home a More Relaxed Social Space

 Making your home a more relaxed space should definitely be a priority if you feel that your home is currently falling a little short in that department. Luckily, there are lots of things you can do to make your home a more relaxed and social space, and we’re going to discuss some of  the best ideas today. So read on now and  find out how to make your home more relaxed, comfortable and social.


Don’t Let Clutter Take Over


Clutter can be a problem in your home if you let it get out of control. It’s hard to create a social and relaxing space when it’s overwhelmed with all kinds of junk that doesn’t really need to be there and is doing little more  than taking up space. So think about having a complete clear out and removing items that are detracting from the home and the atmosphere you want to create.


Try to Create as Much Natural Light as Possible


Natural light can be a big problem in your home when you don’t have enough of it. That’s why it’s so important to do what’s necessary to allow as much of it as possible into your home. Don’t block it with thick curtains or poorly positioned furniture because that’ll only make the space feel dark and less appealing than it ought to feel.


Create a Variety of Sitting and Relaxing Spaces


Having a range of different seating options and spaces that are geared towards relaxation throughout the home is definitely a good idea and something you should think about trying to make happen. Make the most of every little nook and add blankets and cushions to new spaces so people can relax  in them. There can never be too many relaxation spaces in your home.


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Create a Dedicated Outdoor Dining Area


Having a space outside where you can host friends and share dinner with your family each evening is a really good idea. It’s one of the best ways to ensure you and the people closest to you share meal times together and really enjoy the summer weather when it arrives. You can invest in retractable outdoor blinds to complete the space and offer the sun protection you need too.


Add Some Plant Life


Adding some plants to the space is definitely an easy way to make the space feel more relaxed and pleasant. Plants can even help to purify the air in your home, so they offer a wide range of benefits that you can’t ignore. If you feel that your home is currently lacking greenery, find the houseplants that you can look after and that’ll add a new dimension to your home.


So if you want to make your home a more relaxed social space, be sure to make the most of the ideas above. Each of them will make your home a lot more relaxed and create the kind of setting that makes it natural and easy to relax with friends and host gatherings whenever you want to.


LIFESTYLE: 10 Factors To Keep In Mind When Buying Your First Sports Car

 When you're in the market for your first sports car, it's important to consider what you're looking for. For example, do you want a car that will handle well on the track, or are you more interested in looks and speed? 


Photo by Alex Chumak on Unsplash


Here Are A Few Things To Keep In Mind When Buying Your First Sports Car:


Your budget: 

A sports car is not going to be cheap, so make sure you have enough money to cover the purchase price and all of the associated costs, like gas and insurance.


The type of driving you'll do: 

If you're only going to be using your car on the weekends, you don't need a track-ready car. However, if you plan on doing a lot of driving on the open road, you'll want a car that's comfortable and can handle long distances.


Your driving skill level: 

You might want to start with a less powerful car if you're a beginner. Of course, you can always trade up to a more powerful model later on, but it's important to get comfortable with your car before you start pushing its limits.


The type of car you want: 

There are many different types of sports cars on the market, from convertibles to coupes. Decide what kind of car you want before starting your search.


Your specific needs: 

Do you need a lot of cargo space for your weekend trips, or will you be using the car to commute to work? Make sure you pick a car that meets your specific needs.


The brand: 

Not all sports cars are created equal. Some brands are known for making high-quality cars such as Jaguar, while others are not as reliable. So do your research before you buy to make sure you're getting a car that will last.


The colour: 

This might seem like a trivial consideration, but the colour of your car can have a big impact on its overall look. So be sure to choose a colour that you'll be happy with for years to come.


The age of the car: 

You don't want to buy a brand new sports car if you can't afford the maintenance costs. Consider buying a used car instead, which will be cheaper and still in great condition.


The mileage: 

If you're buying a used car, pay attention to the mileage. A car with a lot of miles on it might have more wear and tear, which could lead to problems down the road.


The warranty: 

When you buy a new car, it should come with a warranty that covers repairs for a certain period of time. If you are buying a used car, make sure to ask about the warranty situation before making your purchase.


In Conclusion

These are just some of the things you need to consider when buying your first sports car. Buying a sports car is a big decision, but if you take the time to consider all of your options, you'll be sure to find the perfect car for you. By taking all of these factors into account, you can be sure that you're making the best decision for your needs.


LIFESTYLE: When (And When Not) To Repair Your Car

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Car repairs can be expensive, but there are times when they can be necessary or helpful in the long run. This guide can help you to decide when to splash out on repairs. 

When to repair:

It’s a matter of safety

Some repairs are clearly an emergency - and it may even be illegal to drive your car without getting them fixed. A broken headlight or a broken driver seatbelt are examples of this. Others may be possible to cope with but could still be a danger and are worth getting repaired. For instance, a tyre with sidewall damage could be prone to a blowout while at speed, and is definitely something you shouldn’t ignore. 

The damage is likely to get a lot worse (and more expensive) if you ignore it

Some forms of damage may not be a concern now, but could become a concern in the future. Getting this damage repaired now could prevent the damage getting worse and prevent further repairs later down the line. For example, worn suspension bushes may affect the alignment of your car, leading to tyres getting worn faster, brakes possibly wearing faster and your entire suspension being affected - getting the suspension bush repaired early could prevent many more expensive repairs in the future. 

The damage could devalue your car (and you plan to one day sell)

Certain types of damage could devalue your car, which could be something to consider if you plan to one day sell. This is particularly the case with relatively new cars or otherwise flashy cars. Something as simple as scratched up alloys could knock hundreds off the price tag - it could be worth seeking out alloy repair from a company like justwheelrepair.co.uk to preserve your car’s value. Things like windscreen cracks, visible tyre damage and dashboard warning lights are also worth fixing. 

You’re covered by insurance/a warranty

Certain types of damage may be covered by your insurance policy or by a warranty. In other words, you could be entitled to free repairs. Just bear in mind any excess charges or possible increases in rates that may occur as a result. This post at confused.com explains more about when to claim on insurance. 

When not to repair:

The repair is not necessary – and your car is old and cheap

Something like scratch repair or upholstery repair typically isn’t a necessity. With a newer or more expensive car, you may be able to increase the value significantly by repairing such damage. However, with an older cheap car, the cost of repairs is unlikely to be worth any added value. With high mileage cars, you may not add any value at all. Unless you really don’t like the way the damage looks, there’s no practical advantage in seeking out repairs.

Repairs are likely to cost more than the value of your car

If your car is worth £1000 and future repairs are certain to exceed this, you should seriously consider whether repairs are actually worthwhile. That money could go towards another car - one that could be much more reliable. If your car has already done a lot of miles, you may just have to accept that it’s become a money pit and you’re better off scrapping it.  

LIFESTYLE: 5 Tips For Having Fun at Home on a Rainy Day

 

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Being stuck indoors when it’s raining outside isn’t the most exciting prospect. What you really want to be doing is spending time with your friends, relaxing in the sun, and having fun outdoors. But sometimes the weather has other plans for you. Instead, you’re faced with the dreary reality of passing your day in boredom while confined to your home.


But spending a day inside doesn’t have to be monotonous. In life, you get out what you put in, and if you are convinced you are going to have a dull time then you probably will. But if you face your day with an optimistic attitude and try to accentuate the positives, you will find ways to occupy your time and have a great day in the comfort of your house.


To save you from killing time scrolling through social media or staring blankly at daytime TV, here are five great tips for having fun at home on a rainy day.


Have a movie marathon


Gray, drizzly weather can be downright depressing, but there’s no surer way to brighten up your mood than watching a film you love. Why not spend your day watching back-to-back movies that bring you joy? Your movie marathon can include a selection of your old favorites or even all those Oscar-winning pictures you’ve been wanting to see for some time. So close the shutters, microwave some popcorn, then sit back and relax. There are plenty of great streaming services that allow you to watch almost any film you can think of.

Call up a friend

If you’re stuck at home alone, it’s understandable you might be craving some human contact. But in this modern world of social media and the internet, you’re never really alone. Use this time to call up a relative or old friend you haven’t spoken with in some time. Or you could arrange a Zoom hangout with your buddies, playing games and having a few drinks over video chat. 

Read a book

If you’re the kind of person who loves to read but can never seem to find the time, there are few better opportunities than a rainy day stuck indoors. Pick up a book from your to-read pile, get comfortable in your reading nook and immerse yourself in a new world. 

Have a pamper day

Self care is important, and one of the most comforting ways to spend a rainy day is to pamper yourself. Take a long hot bath with some candles and relaxing music, put on a face mask, and do your nails, or whatever else makes you feel good. 

Cook up a storm

There are few things in life that bring as much happiness as a home-cooked meal. Creating delicious food from scratch is incredibly satisfying and will definitely take your mind off the horrible weather outside. If you have a sweet tooth, why not try your hand at baking cupcakes or cookies. And if you’re more of a savory person, a warming winter stew or soup will help you forget all about the rain.

LIFESTYLE: What Room Should You Renovate Next?

Are you looking for a good way to make your home a little more pricey? Well, renovating your home is the number one way to add value to it; you can add in extra rooms, create more space, and make the property a lot more attractive to the market with plenty of new modcons. 


But what room should you focus on right now? And what order should you proceed in? You’ve only got a limited budget, and you want to use it wisely! Well that’s why this post is here - let’s go through the right kind of renovation priority list below. 


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Start with the Kitchen


The kitchen is the number one room to renovate; a new kitchen, either classically styled or refreshingly modern, always looks good in the eyes of a potential buyer. And not only that, it’s simply just the best room to keep functional as time goes on! You probably spend half your life in there, and it’s always nice to see a clean and stylish outfit around you. 


So focus on ways to improve your kitchen first of all. You can work with a company like KBB East Anglia to come up with a bespoke solution that really feels like you, or you can simply replace the backsplash and/or the countertops, or give the walls a fresh lick of paint. Even the smallest of improvements can add an extra percent of value on top! 


Move onto the Bathroom


Then it’s best to work on the bathroom. The second most used room in the house, a bathroom needs to be clean, cosy, and feel like a lovely place to spend your time. It can’t be too cold, and it certainly needs to be well ventilated, and walk-in showers are all the rage these days. 


Adding an extra sink, replacing the showerhead, and regrouting the tiles are three of the simplest renovation projects to do that’ll boost the value of your home. They’ll all also make the room easier to use, especially if you’re constantly hurrying your partner out first thing in the morning! 


Finish with the Bedrooms


The bedrooms in your home are pretty standard rooms, but the more storage function you can squeeze out of them, the better. Fitted wardrobes are incredibly popular right now, as well as adding ensuite access, and finding space to fit an extra bedroom in will always add at least an extra 10% of your home’s original value to the pot. 


Converting the loft to make a guest bedroom is a good way to kill two birds with one stone. You make good use of the space up there, and you manage to make more usable space in your home in one go. Many buyers will love being able to style and design this extra room to their heart’s content, even if they have no need for the bedroom. 


Renovating your home can be a lengthy job, but the work is all worth it in the end!


LIFESTYLE: 7 Tips For All The Single Moms

 There’s no sugarcoating it: being a single mom is tough. But it’s also incredibly rewarding, and the strength and resilience that you develop as a result are unparalleled.


Photo by Daria Obymaha from Pexels


There are plenty of misconceptions about single moms out there. For example, some people seem to think that we’re all lazy, uneducated, or just looking for a handout. The truth is, most single moms are just trying to do the best they can for their kids.


It’s not always easy, but there are a few things that help make things a little bit easier. 


Here Are A Few Tips For Being A Successful Single Mom:


Lean On Your Support System:

One of the greatest things about being a single mom is that you have an amazing support system. Your friends and family are always there for you, no matter what. So lean on them when you need help – they’ll be more than happy to oblige.


Set Some Boundaries:

It’s essential to set some boundaries for yourself as a single mom. You can’t do it all, and you need to make sure that you take some time for yourself. Make sure you schedule some time for yourself every week, even if it’s just an hour or two.


Get Organised:

To get organised is one that goes hand in hand with setting boundaries. As a single mom, it’s important to be as organised as possible. This will help you stay on top of things and avoid feeling overwhelmed.


Don’t Be Afraid To Ask For Help:

Asking for help is not a sign of weakness – it’s actually a sign of strength. So if you need help with anything such as the divorce procedures itself, be sure to contact a Divorce Solicitors for advice and guidance. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help from family members or friends. There are many people out there who are more than happy to help.


Don’t Forget To Have Fun:

Being a single mom can be tough, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t have any fun. Make sure to schedule some time for yourself every week and try to do something that you enjoy. It’s important to take care of yourself, both mentally and physically.


Celebrate Your Accomplishments:

It can be easy to get down on yourself as a single mom. Therefore, it is vital to celebrate your accomplishments – big and small. Every little victory is worth celebrating, so make sure you take the time to do so.


Stay Positive:

This one is definitely key – you need to stay positive if you want to be successful as a single mom. Things won’t always go your way, but that doesn’t mean that you have to let it get you down. Stay positive and keep your head up – things will get better.


In Conclusion

Being a single mom is definitely not easy, but it’s definitely worth it. These tips should help make things a little bit easier – just remember to stay strong and never give up. 

You can do it!