The winter is upon us, and you might have forgotten about a few key areas to check in order to protect your home. Winter damage includes flooding from leaks and burst pipes, damp and old due to inadequate heating, and issues with drains. Make sure you protect your home this year.
Repair the Roof
Roof leaks are quite common, especially in older homes or homes that have not been treated for some time. In the winter, these leaks can cause havoc in your home; they can create mold that affects the air quality and rot in the foundational beams that weakens the property structure.
If you have not had your property’s roof checked for some time, consider a roof repair before the coldest winter temperatures. Having your roof checked in the winter ensures there are no surprise leaks that damage your home slowly throughout the season, giving you peace of mind.
Protect the Pipes
One of the first things to address when preparing your home for the winter season is the condition of the water pipes. The home’s water pipes will be used frequently throughout the season, but when they are not in use overnight, there is a chance residual water will freeze.
Freezing water in the pipes expands, cracking and bursting them; this leads to flooding and water damage at the least convenient time of the year. Don’t get caught out; instead, buy some foam insulation to wrap around the pipes and secure it with tie wraps to protect pipes in winter.
Fix the Drains
On the subject of flooding and water damage, there is also a chance of your drains becoming blocked in the winter season, requiring an expensive plumber to call out to repair the damage. Again, this situation is avoidable when you have your drains professionally checked in winter.
The home’s drains are taking food waste and human waste away from the home in the direction of a processing facility, but the drains can become blocked with debris over time, along with twigs and roots from the local area. A drain technician ensures the drains are clear and working.
Check the Boiler
It gets cold in the winter, and your home is at risk of damage from ice, frost, and water. If you want to protect your home during this challenging season and maintain warmth and comfort, you need to pay attention to your boiler. Keeping your home warm and insulated is important.
A boiler is a technical item in the home, and it’s illegal to tamper with it; you need a professional service. To make sure your boiler is functional, it’s recommended that you have it serviced at least once a year. The best time of the year to service it is at the start of the winter season.
Final Thoughts
During the six months of winter, your home is at risk of various kinds of damage; you might find water damage in the loft due to a leaking roof, flooding in the basement due to burst pipes, or serious issues with your outside drains. Call professional services to have these items checked.
Tia and TipsfromTia.com are trying to keep you looking good and feeling good from the inside out. If you’ve got a problem or a tip, email me! Be sure to Like and share on Facebook or Follow on Twitter, TikTok, or Instagram.
Whatever car you happen to drive, there are going to be repairs that need doing from time to time – that is just how it goes, regardless of how you approach driving or caring for your car. Of course, there are things you can do to reduce how often you need to carry out repairs – driving safely, getting the car regularly serviced – but generally, there are always going to be repairs of some kind. So which are the most common car repairs that need doing, and what can you do about them? Let’s look at four of the most common right now.
Your brakes will generally wear out over time, and in fact this is one part of your car that is always going to need replacing from time to time. Your brakes are obviously a very important part of the vehicle because without them you are not driving a safe car at all. So it’s vital that breaks are repaired as soon as they need to be. Having them checked at an annual MOT is very wise, as is watching out for the signs of old brakes – such as a mushy feeling when you press them or the car taking longer to stop.
It is actually easier than you might assume for your windscreen to develop cracks. It can be as simple and quick as a stone being thrown up by the tires, and then once you have a crack, the problem is that it can develop into something more serious very quickly. If you have noticed this happening, it’s best to act fast. Contact your local auto glass specialists and get them to come and repair it as soon as possible. It might be a small repair, or it might need a complete replacement. Either way, be sure not to avoid it.
When your car’s engine runs, it burns through oil. In the process, that oil goes through a filter, and over time the filter is going to become dirtier, which means that the oil itself becomes dirtier too. That is not an immediate problem, but it does mean the car won’t run as efficiently and that your engine will be under more strain than is ideal. So taking your car for an annual oil change is a really good idea, especially for older vehicles. You can even do this yourself, if you prefer, without too much difficulty.
The tyres are obviously the only part of the car that touches the road all the time, and as such, it is hardly surprising that they are the first part to need replacement in most cars. One of your main advisories on an MOT will often be tyres, and you need to make sure that you don’t let them get too close to the legal minimum before replacing them. This is one of the most important things you have to pay attention to in terms of keeping safe, so make sure you remember that.
Tia and TipsfromTia.com are trying to keep you looking good and feeling good from the inside out. If you’ve got a problem or a tip, email me! Be sure to Like and share on Facebook or Follow on Twitter, TikTok, or Instagram.
When it comes time for a bathroom remodel, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Whether your bathroom is large or small, there are ways to make the most of the space you have and create a functional and beautiful room that meets your needs. This blog post will discuss essential bathroom remodeling tips that will help you get started!
1) Make a Plan:
Before you start remodeling, create a plan and budget for the project. This will help you stay organized and on task. Consider factors like the size of your bathroom, what materials you want to use, how much money you can spend, and any other details that are important to you.
2) Choose Durable Materials:
Bathrooms should be easy to clean and long-lasting, so make sure to choose materials that are durable and water-resistant. Popular choices include tile, laminate countertops, stainless steel fixtures, and vinyl flooring. If you’re looking for something more luxurious or unique, there are also many options available such as natural stone tiles or even marble countertops!
Lighting is essential for a functional bathroom and can also create an inviting atmosphere. Consider using natural light, such as skylights or windows, in addition to artificial lighting, like recessed lighting or vanity lights.
4) Update Fixtures:
If your budget allows it, you may want to update your plumbing fixtures. Replacing outdated faucets and showerheads with newer models can help make the room look more modern and give it a fresh feel. Additionally, investing in energy-efficient fixtures can help lower water costs over time.
5) Embrace Small Spaces:
Small bathrooms don’t have to be cramped and uncomfortable! There are lots of ways to maximize space, such as installing shelves and storage units, using wall-mounted fixtures, or adding a corner sink to free up room.
6) Organize Clutter:
No one likes a cluttered bathroom! Find ways to strategically organize toiletries and other items, so they’re easy to access but out of sight. This could include built-in shelving, over-the-toilet cabinets, and even wall-mount baskets.
7) Kid friendly:
If you have kids, be sure to factor their needs into the remodel. This could include adding child-friendly cabinets and drawer pulls that are easy for little hands to open or installing grab bars in the shower for safety.
8) Install a Heated Floor:
An often overlooked but luxurious addition to any bathroom is heated flooring. This can be particularly nice in the wintertime and create a cozy feeling in the room. Plus, it’s easier to clean tile or laminate floors when they’re kept warm.
When you’re remodeling your bathroom, don’t skimp on quality! Look for pieces that are made from sturdy materials and have good design elements that will last for years to come.
10) Work with professionals:
Remodeling a bathroom can be a daunting task, so it’s important to work with a plumbing company and contractor who have experience and know-how. This will help to ensure that the job is done correctly and safely, so you can enjoy your new bathroom for years to come.
When it comes to bathroom remodeling, there are many things to consider. Following these essential tips will help you create a beautiful and functional room that meets your needs! From planning out the project to choosing quality materials, there are lots of ways to make the most of your space and get the job done right.
Tia and TipsfromTia.com are trying to keep you looking good and feeling good from the inside out. If you’ve got a problem or a tip, email me! Be sure to Like and share on Facebook or Follow on Twitter, TikTok, or Instagram.
How To Prepare Your House For Winter In Just 8 Steps
Preparing your house for winter is a task that shouldn’t be taken lightly. As temperatures start to drop and the days become shorter, it’s essential to make sure your home is ready for the change of season. From checking your gutters and windows to insulating doors and pipes, there are many simple steps you can take to ensure your home remains cozy and comfortable throughout winter. In this article, we’ll provide 8 key tips on how you can easily prepare your house for winter in just 8 simple steps. So let’s get started!
Start by inspecting all windows and exterior doors to ensure they are properly sealed against cold air leaks. Replace any cracked or missing caulk, weatherstripping, and insulation around doors and windows. This simple step will help keep your home warm and reduce energy costs.
Step 2: Check Gutters and Drains.
Gutters should be checked for debris before winter arrives to avoid ice buildup, which can cause damage to your roof. Unclog downspouts, check gutters for leaks and make sure they are firmly attached to the house. Also, look at outside drains to ensure they are not blocked by debris or leaves that could cause water backups during heavy rains or snowfall.
Next, take a look at any exposed pipes or outside doors in your home. Insulating these areas with foam pipe insulation or weatherstripping will help keep the cold air out and your home warm.
Step 4: Get Your Heating System Serviced.
Before winter begins, it’s important to have your heating system serviced by a professional to make sure it is running safely and efficiently. Ensure that all filters are changed and any necessary repairs are made so you can enjoy a reliable source of heat throughout the season.
Step 5: Clean Furnaces and Fireplaces.
If you use a furnace or fireplace for heating, be sure to have them professionally cleaned before winter arrives. This will ensure there is no built-up soot or debris that could clog vents, leading to unsafe conditions in your home.
Step 6: Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors.
To ensure the safety of your home, it’s important to install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on each floor. These devices will alert you to any hazardous levels of these gasses in your home, giving you time to take necessary precautions in case of emergency.
Make sure to switch the direction of your ceiling fans before winter arrives. Reversing the blades helps circulate warm air that rises toward the ceiling throughout the entire room, keeping your home more comfortable during colder months.
Step 8: Stock Up On Emergency Supplies
In case of power outages or extreme weather conditions, it’s important to have some basic emergency supplies on hand. Make sure you have flashlights, extra blankets, and batteries in your home in case of an emergency. Storm Damage can be a real threat during winter.
In Closing
By following these 8 simple steps, you can easily prepare your house for winter and ensure that it remains comfortable and safe throughout the season. From checking windows and doors to reversing ceiling fans, each step is essential to ensuring your home stays warm and cozy even during the coldest months of the year!
Tia and TipsfromTia.com are trying to keep you looking good and feeling good from the inside out. If you’ve got a problem or a tip, email me! Be sure to Like and share on Facebook or Follow on Twitter, TikTok, or Instagram.
Tips To Keep Your Child From Becoming A Troublemaker
No one wants a troublesome child but it can happen. Regardless of what you do or what you feel you’re doing right, it can lead to a child going off the path of good and misbehaving.
To keep a child from becoming a troublemaker, it’s all about the life lessons and approaches you give and make when it comes to educating and teaching your child. No one has the book to help navigate parenthood with perfection, and every parent can have regrets. However, making the changes now hopefully helps prevent even more chaos in the future.
Here are some helpful tips to keep your child from becoming a troublemaker in life.
Where does the bad behavior come from? It’s not just popped up out of nowhere. While yes, there can be natural events that mold a child’s behavior, there are also a lot of nurture experiences that could have contributed to their negative attitude or behavior in life.
Understanding where the bad behavior comes from is important. It’s a good way of helping pinpoint what the issue is and how to potentially overcome that problem the child has.
For example, the bad behavior may come from another child they know, influencing them to do bad things. It may also be a family member who is doing something similar, and they’re copying. In some cases, they may be having developmental issues due to a medical problem, or perhaps they’re struggling with an undiagnosed disability such as autism. From there, you can determine the best course of action to assist them, such as by using autism recovery services or finding a school most suitable for their needs.
Identifying the issue is going to help get to the crux of the problem.
While it may be easy to do so, a child isn’t going to be enjoyed being compared to other children. So when a parent lashes out at a misbehaving child with ‘why can’t you be like your brother, he’s well behaved’, it’s likely to have a negative impact on their own view of themselves.
They may end up growing up and finding themselves compared to anyone and everyone in life. This cycle isn’t a healthy one, so it’s important to take a different direction when you’re exasperated at your child.
Be understanding
Be understanding of the situation. They may be misbehaving for a reason, and it might be something that ends up being a temporary phase.
By being respectful of their argument and understanding where they’re coming from, it’s likely to make a big difference to the respect they have for you as a parent. Show understanding, and you’ll likely find it does more good than bad.
Teach them the difference between right and wrong
Not every child knows the difference between right and wrong straight away. For some, it might take a few life lessons to understand what they deem as being right and what they see as being wrong.
There are some that will grow up not even realizing what they’re doing is wrong until it’s too late. Either that, or they simply haven’t been told off or told it’s wrong.
Educate them on life growing up
It’s interesting to see, as an adult, just how much we learned and self-taught from the world around us growing up. Not everything was learned or given by our parents. It’s important that as an adult with children, you recognize the importance of giving them these life lessons when they’re ready.
From knowing the drinking age and risks of drinking, especially when underage. The same goes for sex and drugs. There are a lot of life lessons that should be given by parents to their children so that they grow up with a more informed understanding of how the world works.
Stomp down on bullying behavior
Bullying behavior is never nice and it’s something that should be stomped down on in the home. A lot of bullying can manifest itself from seeing others around them bully and comments made about people’s appearances that are seen as a joke.
As a child, they absorb information like a sponge, so anything you or your partner may say as a joke, they may take seriously and use it as ammo for bullying another child or person when they’re older.
Try to stomp down on bullying behavior as best as you can, addressing it with punishment for those occasions where it’s gotten out of hand.
Spend more time with them
No one wants a troublesome teen or child, but it can often happen because they’re not being given enough time or attention from their parents.
In this day and age, a lot of people can be consumed by their work, and it can have an impact on their behavior. It’s why it’s important to spend as much of your free time as possible with your kids, making memories together. The more time you spend with them, the less time they have to go out and cause mischief.
Show an interest in what they’re interested in and get involved where appropriate. You’ll find that it can have the most positive impacts.
Shouting is easy to do, and when parents get frustrated or upset, they tend to vent their frustrations toward those they love, i.e, their children. However, shouting at them is not going to get the message across. In fact, it’s going to do more damage than good.
Of course, there are times when shouting might be necessary but try not to resort to shouting all the time. There may be other beneficial ways of getting your point across that don’t involve raising your voice.
Be careful with punishments
Be wary when it comes to punishments. They should be electively picked rather than dishing them out left, right, and center. By giving out too many punishments, it can make some of those misbehaviors seem a little less insignificant, and that can only make the troublesome behavior worse.
Try to give punishments only when it’s absolutely necessary to help prove a point.
Keeping your child from becoming troublesome is not something you can prevent entirely, but you can do your best as a parent to avoid it as much as possible. Use these tips to keep your children from causing mischief in life.
Tia and TipsfromTia.com are trying to keep you looking good and feeling good from the inside out. If you’ve got a problem or a tip, email me! Be sure to Like and share on Facebook or Follow on Twitter, TikTok, or Instagram.
