How To Protect Your Car From Scratches?

Your vehicle is an expensive investment. While driving around, your vehicle might get some scratches that will reduce its overall value. If you are someone who likes to keep their car looking brand new and also flips to try out new models, you will need to protect your car from chips and scratches. However, that is a lot difficult to do especially if you live in a traffic congested area and drive a lot. To counter the issue, here is a list of some important tips to keep your investment protected. Probably the most important tip is to install a paint protection film on your car.

Wash Your Car Regularly

Washing your car regularly is one of the best ways to protect it from scratches. While the vehicle is driven on roads, streets, and highways, it is highly likely for dust and dirt to accumulate on the paint. With time, if the accumulation is ignored, it can lead to lots of scratches.

The reason is that dirt and dust particles tend to be rugged and rough. Plus, there is a difference in the type of dirt and dust particles as well. For instance, if you live in a region that has deserts in the surrounding, your vehicle will have to deal with a lot tougher conditions as sand is relatively a lot more rough.

A good way to wash your vehicle is by using a two-bucket method. You use two buckets. One has the cleaning solution while the other has water. This way, you will be able to lay off the dirt and dust in the water bucket instead of transferring them to the vehicle.

Utilize Proper Drying Technique

One common problem among vehicle owners is not utilizing the proper technique to dry the vehicle. It won’t seem like a big deal but it does a lot in terms of scratches. This is because when a vehicle is being dried, the remaining water is lifted and the cleaning tool or object directly comes in contact with the paint.

Therefore, you should invest in proper cleaning tools that avoid such damage. Plus, you should pat dry the vehicle instead of running the microfiber cloth across the paint. Moreover, you should also make sure to clean the drying clothes.

It might be that dirt, dust, or some other small objects are trapped inside the fibers. As a result, your vehicle might be scratched as you move the cloth across the vehicle to dry.

Avoid Automatic Car Wash

Some people due to time constraints tend to opt for automatic car washes. While this might seem to be a time-efficient way of getting your car cleaned but at the cost of damaging the paintwork. Automatic car washes are quite rough and deal with hundreds of cars daily.

This means that the fibers of the cleaning and washing machine will most likely contain dirt and dust accumulations. So, if that machine were to wash your vehicle as well, it could be that the paint gets scratched. Plus, automatic car washes are not preferred for repainted vehicles.

Furthermore, there are various chemicals in them which are good for cleaning vehicle’s bodies, but they can damage the wax and other protective layers on the vehicle. As a result, your vehicle’s paint will be stripped of its protective layer against external factors.

Install Paint Protection Film

Paint protection film is a good solution for protecting your car’s body from scratches and chips. It is also the most expensive and for the right reasons. Paint protection film is a thin layer of polymer that is applied over the vehicle’s paint for protection.

The installation process of the film is a lot different than the others. The process takes place in multiple stages and should be carried out by a team of experts. First, the vehicle is thoroughly washed and dried. Then, experts compound and polish the vehicle to remove contaminants.

Once that is done, the experts cut down the film based on the dimensions of the vehicle. Then, the expert uses a chemical and a squeegee to lay the film on the car. Modern paint protection films are self-healing, which means they can repair themselves by coming in contact with the UV rays if there happen to be scratches or swirls.

However, considering the demand, paint protection films are available in a variety of types out there. You should only opt for a certified installer who offers authentic products along with a guarantee and warranty of their work.

Consider Window Tint Film Installation

Auto window tints act as a protective layer for the windows of your vehicle. They provide privacy if you opt for a legal dark shade and also keep the glass from getting scratched too easily. Moreover, car window tinting Springfield can reduce heat penetration into your vehicle making it a bit cooler in summer which also increases the AC’s efficiency.

Use Ceramic Coating

If paint protection film is not an option considering the expense, you can opt for ceramic coating. As the term suggests, it is a type of chemical that is formulated as a coating to be applied on vehicles. Unlike the paint protection film, ceramic coating is in a liquid form.

But, to apply the coating, the vehicle has to go through the same preparation process. The thing with ceramic coating is that it might protect your vehicle from swirls but not scratches. This option is feasible for vehicle owners who do not drive in traffic-congested areas and already keep their vehicles well-maintained.

Use A Car Cover

Although manufacturers make sure the paint of the vehicles is strong enough to withstand external factors, if exposed regularly, the paint will become damaged. UV rays and bird droppings etc. are the worst enemies of paint. Bird droppings tend to contain acid and if left ignored will leave a permanent stain.

This means that if your vehicle is parked directly under the sun or a tree for shade, you should cover it with a cover. Also, you should cover the vehicle even if it is parked inside the garage. This gives the vehicle an extra layer of protection.

Perform Regular Maintenance

Performing regular inspection and maintenance on your vehicle is a must if you wish to protect the finish and resale value of your vehicle should you decide to sell it in the future. Ideally, you should perform a thorough checkup and maintenance at least once a week.

If you are not able to do that due to certain limitations, you can hire an expert. This is going to cost you money but a professional’s hand will ensure your vehicle is protected. Plus, if there are minor scratches or swirls, the expert will remove them for you. Otherwise, you will have to put in effort to remove them.

Conclusion

Protecting your vehicle from scratches requires putting in time and effort one way or the other. Considering the price of vehicles nowadays, you must keep your existing vehicle in brand-new condition. If you have the budget, you should install PPF by finding a good paint protection film installer Springfield and make sure the vehicle is properly covered when parked. Such practices can go a long way in terms of keeping your vehicle’s value from nosediving.

Why Does My AC Keep Blowing The Fuse?

Your air conditioner is the only appliance in the house that is supposed to keep you and your family cozy and comfortable. The last thing you would want is the unit turning off out of nowhere only to find out that it has blown the fuse. There could be several reasons causing the issue, but you need to be aware of the troubleshooting tips as well so you can try them out before calling in HVAC repair services. We will go through them in detail and help you prevent such situations from taking place in the future.

Dirty Air Filter

No matter how much it is stressed but still, the majority of homeowners tend to ignore the importance of air filters. Air filters as the term suggests help filter the air before it is circulated inside the house. It does so by trapping dirt, dust, and contaminants.

Air filters have evolved to the point where they have become so precise, allowing them to block micro-toxicants. Since air has to pass through the filters before being circulated in the house, it is normal for air filters to become dirty.

However, if you ignore them, the air filters soon get clogged, which burdens the air conditioning unit. At the same time, air filters are not able to filter the air anymore and toxic air is circulated inside the house. This could lead to serious chronic respiratory issues among kids and elders.

Therefore, to make sure the situation does not repeat itself in the future, you need to personally inspect and clean the filters at least once a month. The maintenance frequency will also depend on the location of the unit and how frequently it is used.

If the outdoor unit happens to be located near trees or plants, there is a chance the unit will get dirty relatively quickly and will need maintenance accordingly. Plus, if the air conditioner is sitting dormant in the winter season, make sure to clean it before you turn it on again for the summer.

The AC Is Low On Refrigerant

Another noteworthy factor that might cause your air conditioning unit to trip the circuit breaker or blow a fuse is low refrigerant. Air conditioning units require refrigerants to condense the air for cooling. For this to happen, the air conditioning units need to have a specific amount of refrigerant in the coils.

The refrigerant can leak due to cracks, rust, or corrosion. If the air conditioner happens to be old, it might be that minor holes or cracks are causing the refrigerant to leak. On the other hand, if you have a new unit, it might be that it was not installed properly after being serviced or installation which led to a refrigerant leak.

In that case, you may be able to claim the warranty. However, if the HVAC unit is old, you will have to pay for the refrigerant. As a general rule of thumb, if the air conditioner is too old, it will likely continue causing problems.

So, instead of spending money on expensive repairs and replacements, you should opt for a new unit.

The Capacitor Isn’t Working As It Should

The capacitor is yet another minor component that plays a crucial role in the normal running of the air conditioner. The capacitor is designed to control the electricity flow. If it happens to malfunction, the air conditioner will simply turn off.

There are usually two capacitors in an HVAC unit: start capacitor and run capacitor. However, if any of them fail, problems will arise.

One thing you need to keep in mind is that modern air conditioners are loaded with safety features. This means they are programmed to shut down if they sense something wrong such as electrical fluctuation. These safety features help protect the unit from damage.

So, if you observe that your air conditioner is turning off all of a sudden after running for a while, it means the capacitor is bad and is shutting down the unit when it heats up. To fix the issue, you must consult an expert. Fortunately, the capacitor is not an expensive component and will need replacement.

Damaged Electrical Wiring

Damaged electrical wiring is another common issue, especially among old air conditioners. It could also be the home’s breaker or fuse box. With time, the wires connecting to the air conditioning unit and the circuit breaker might get damaged or have rust or cracks.

Temperature fluctuations can also cause this issue specifically in regions where humidity and moisture are prominent. Unfortunately, you can’t do much in this situation but to replace the air conditioning wiring. Then again, you must get the services of an HVAC expert or an electrician to get the wires replaced because it can be dangerous to be done by yourself.

How To Prevent AC Issues From Taking Place?

Perhaps the best way to avoid air conditioning issues is by taking care of it. This includes inspecting and maintaining the unit regularly. The frequency of inspection and maintenance depends on how frequently the air conditioner is used. Generally, inspections and maintenance should be performed at least once a month.

However, if the air conditioner is used throughout the year, you will need to perform inspection and maintenance more than once. Plus, you should also invest in professional care whether you have a ducted HVAC system or a ductless air conditioner Ronkonkoma. The reason we call it investment is due to the fact that it helps the unit run smoothly for years to come.

Many people think that maintenance by experts only means cleaning. But apart from cleaning, the expert identifies potential problems and fixes them. This prevents the air conditioning unit from expensive damage if something goes wrong.

How To Find An HVAC Expert?

When it comes to professional maintenance, you should always hire an expert. Experts are slightly more expensive as they carry certifications, insurance, and a license allowing them to carry out air conditioning-related tasks. Considering the fact that you will be faced with numerous options while hunting for the right person, the process is bound to become overwhelming.

That said, you should ask your social circle to provide you with referrals. Plus, you can also personally visit your local market and ask around for an AC technician. Make sure you have multiple options in hand and only pick an expert having cross-compared the prices.

Can I Fix A Blown Fuse Myself?

Although, fixing a blown fuse is not rocket science but can be dangerous. The reason is that fuses are electrical components and can store an electric charge. You might be at risk of getting electrocuted while accessing or removing the fuse.

This could damage other components as well such as the compressor. This is why you should always entrust an expert to perform such tasks. The service might cost you but will ensure the unit is safe and does not run into further problems.

Conclusion

Your air conditioner blowing up the fuse indicates a serious problem. Such problems should not be ignored and be fixed immediately. If you find yourself in a similar situation, make sure to follow the tips mentioned above. And, always hire an AC repair service Smithtown to deal with such issues instead of trying to fix them on your own.

10 Soapstone Countertops Ideas For Your Kitchen

Soapstone countertops are beautiful and all, but when it comes to the kitchen, you might get stumped because of not knowing how to style these babies. You may have already seen many granite countertops ideas, so here are some soapstone countertop ideas that will knock every idea you’ve ever known out of the water.

Combine Two Materials

Soapstone is great on its own, but did you know that it also pairs well with other stones? For instance, soapstone combined with marble looks like an opulent dream come true and it elevates the look of your kitchen. The trick is to match the hues of the materials and make them complement each other rather than trying to match them a 100%.

Soapstone has that soft and slippery feel to it, while marble is light and fragile, so this is the perfect combination to make your kitchen stunning if you want it to look breathtaking from every angle. Yes, it’s going to be a bit on the expensive side and you’ll probably need to maintain it a lot but a little bit of struggle will make your kitchen look fabulous.

Something Green

Green is such an underrated color in soapstone countertops, but it looks refreshing. Now, this color isn’t going to turn your kitchen into something out of an alien movie, but it is going to give that freshness and richness to your space that you never knew you needed.

Green countertops might seem difficult to pair other colors with, but it’s a versatile color and it goes well with all warm colors. Be it brown, gray, blue, yellow, or even the classic white. You’ll be surprised to see the combination of green soapstone countertops with all of the above-mentioned colors.

Add Some Drama

Some people love the look of dark countertops and soapstone delivers perfectly every single time. If you’re one of those people who adore the look of a darker countertop, then black soapstone will take your breath away.

Black might look harsh, but there’s a way to mute it down and make it look fantastic in the kitchen. The trick is to find a balance between dark and light for your kitchen. If you’re opting for solid black soapstone countertops then you need to keep everything else very light and muted to balance everything out.

If you want, you can even go for a black-veined countertop and that’s going to look even better with the added layer of texture. Black countertops also look good with minimal décor, so keep that in mind as well, because you want soapstone countertops to shine.

Go White

This is a stark contrast to the previous idea, but it’s just as irresistible and oh-so-beautiful. Marble countertops Raleigh NC are mostly known for the color white, but if they are expensive for you, use soapstone.

White soapstone in a white kitchen will also look extremely beautiful. Not only that, but it will also make your kitchen appear more spacy and bigger. This idea is perfect for small and cramped kitchens that don’t have a lot of lighting and space to move around.

You can make your kitchen free from anything harsh-looking with a white theme. Soapstone is usually available in a lot of white colors, from creamy off-white to stark white and even beige, so you can choose from a lot of options.

Neutral Tones Work Like A Charm

If you don’t want to go down either route, a.k.a. dark or light, and prefer to stay in the middle lane, then this idea has you covered too. Neutral soapstone countertops with a neutral background and décor always win the game and it’s a beautiful idea for your kitchen if you want it to remain classic and timeless for years to come.

Light grays combined with a slightly darker brown, or a taupe-colored countertop space paired with a lovely shade of blue will turn your kitchen from 0 to 100 in a matter of minutes.

Add Accents Of Bold Colors

One way by which you can make your soapstone countertops look amazing is by adding accents of color.

If your soapstone countertops are pretty plain in color, not that anything is wrong with that, and you need to add that extra element to them to spruce them up, then you need to go for accents of bold colors and dot them throughout the kitchen. This can be anything, from the trimmed edges of the countertops to the cabinet knobs and even some bold décor items.

Just keep in mind the fact that you need to keep it minimal otherwise you’ll overpower the entire layout.

Soapstone-Glass Combo

Soapstone is a very forgiving material when it comes to decoration and pairing. If you have simple soapstone countertops and want to give your kitchen a show-stopping look, then you need to think about the background of the countertops. Confused?

Well, the background consists of the things you see when you stand on one side of the countertops. So, what is the most common thing you see in front of a countertop? It’s the cabinets! You can make soapstone countertops look amazing with glass cabinet doors and that’s going to make everything look that much better.

Rustic Appeal

If you love the look of farmhouse kitchens and want to incorporate the same appeal in your modern kitchen, then you can certainly do so. All you need for this is a wooden countertop base and then you can set soapstone slabs on top of them.

The overlay of wood and soapstone will look out of this world and you can even add more rustic accents like a nice vintage rug and top everything off with a few classic décor articles and you will be good to go. Your kitchen will turn into a farmhouse dream.

Pair With Wood

This pairing implies that the cabinets need to be made out of wood or at least freshened up before you can add soapstone countertops into the mix of things. The combination of wood and soapstone is out of this world, and it’s a perfect combination of rustic and soft that will make everyone go “wow”.

If you want, you can even opt for minimal but eye-catching cabinet knobs and fixtures and those small details will add that something-something to your kitchen. The softness and subtle appeal of soapstone and the rustic and warm beauty of the wood will make your kitchen look fantastic.

The Lux Route

Everyone loves an opulent kitchen, without having to spend those big bucks. If you want to add that element of luxury to your kitchen with soapstone countertops, then all you need for this is gold-colored and trimmed countertops.

There are lots of soapstone countertops that are available with gold veining and they look out of this world. The trick is that you don’t want to overdo it with the gold accents. You just need a barely-there look with gold, so that it’s just enough to peek through and entice the visual sense.

Conclusion

Soapstone countertops are easy to decorate because they’re available in a huge variety of designs. Well, now you know a lot of ideas that you can try out when you will require countertop replacement Durham NC.

Polished Vs Honed Quartz Countertop Finish

Quartz countertops are great if you’re looking for something durable and non-porous because natural stones are infamously porous and you have to seal them regularly. But did you know that quartz kitchen countertops have types of finishes? Two most common finishes of quartz are honed and polished. Here is a comparison between these two quartz countertop finishes.

The Surface

First things first, you have to understand the difference between honed and polished quartz countertops. If it’s your first-time getting countertops for your kitchen, then you’re bound to get confused by the sheer amount of options. Let’s make it simple for you.

Honed quartz countertops are countertops that have a slightly glossy finish. They’re very understated and neutral and they’re also known as matte countertops. If you like the appearance of light-absorbing surfaces that don’t hurt your eyes with a blaring glare, then honed quartz countertops will be right up your alley. You will love the look of these countertops in your kitchen, especially combined with the right décor.

Polished quartz countertops are exactly what they sound like. They’re countertops with a highly reflective surface. They make the light bounce off in different directions and add more illumination to the room. Polished surfaces are also loved by a ton of people and they just love the shiny and smooth surface of the countertops, which makes this finish downright irresistible. If you’re more skewed to polished and shiny surfaces, then you will love polished quartz, because this quartz finish is out of this world.

Maintenance

Maintenance is a really important thing to talk about, especially when it comes to countertops. When you’re choosing a material for your kitchen, you want it to be low on the maintenance side of things, because it’s not smart to spend all of your time and money on maintaining and taking care of the material.

Honed quartz countertops are a bit more heavy on the maintenance side of things because they’re not naturally shiny. The matte surface will absorb all of the light instead of reflecting it. This can accentuate any damage or uneven surface on the countertops, which can be unpleasant to look at. There is also an issue of fingerprints and smudges showing on honed quartz countertops and cleaning them over and over again can be a nightmare, to say the least.

Polished quartz countertops are a breeze to maintain. Thanks to their polished and highly reflective surface, polished quartz can bounce off light, diverting attention from any scratches that may be present on the surface. It also doesn’t leave any hand smudges on the surface either, because of the slippery shiny finish, making it a much better option.

When it comes to colors, neutral colors are low maintenance than dark or white countertops.

Availability

The next order of importance is the availability of each finish. Let’s face it; no matter how much you adore a certain finish, regardless of the material, if it’s not easily available, then what’s the point?

Honed quartz countertops are not easily available. They are made on order because this finish is achieved by shaving the surface down to reveal a minimally shiny, more matte look. There are also quite a few retailers of honed quartz countertops, so you won’t have a lot of variety to pick and choose from, which is kind of sad, considering that quartz is a pretty popular kitchen countertop material among people.

Polished quartz countertops are available readily and almost all retailers have some sort of variety, if not more, in this finish. Generally, the natural finish of quartz is polished, so there’s no need to go the extra mile to hone the surface, for it to look more matte. Owing to the polished surface of quartz, there also isn’t any possibility of smudges and scratches showing, because the reflection acts as an excellent camouflage for any imperfections on the surface.

So, if you’re still on the fence about whether honed or polished quartz countertops are better, then this factor will certainly help you pick a side.

Which Finish Is More Natural?

As mentioned above, honed quartz countertops aren’t naturally matte. They need to be made matte and minimal, by sanding or shaving the upper reflective surface off. This is a finish that a lot of people love, but they typically don’t know this crucial piece of information.

Polished quartz countertops, on the other hand, are what natural quartz countertops look like. There’s no need to prep them in advance and you can buy them as they are, have them fabricated by a quartz countertop contractor Potomac, and set them in the kitchen. Pretty hard to beat ease, isn’t it?

Stain & Scratch Resistance

Another really important thing to go over when choosing a specific finish for countertops is the fact that it’s going to be scratch and stain-resistant or not. Quartz countertops are normally quite strong and durable and they can resist scratches and stains like normal. However, when finishes are added to the equation, things can be a bit different. Let’s find out how:

Honed quartz countertops are shaved from the topmost surface, which gives them their characteristic matte look. However, it’s not always the best, because the matte and rough surface is the perfect place for stains to become permanent. The matte surface isn’t able to prevent fluids from penetrating inside the material and this, in turn, causes stains to form. The same goes for scratches. Honed quartz can be scratched pretty easily, because of its unprotected and rather soft matte surface.

Polished quartz countertops can be a blessing in disguise. These countertops can endure scratches from deepening, thanks to the added slippery surface of the material, which isn’t shaved away, as it is in honed quartz. Because of this fact, polished quartz countertops are also able to prevent stains from becoming permanent. The polished layer of quartz acts like a built-in sealant that allows water or other fluids to bead up on the surface, rather than getting absorbed.

Price

The price also plays a huge role in determining whether a countertop and material finish is even worth considering, let alone buying. Honed quartz countertops are generally a bit more expensive because there is an added step in the fabrication process that involves making the surface of the countertop matte.

On the flipside, polished quartz countertops are less expensive than their honed counterparts, because there’s no step involved in refining the finish. Quartz is already shiny, so all the fabricator needs to do is take the measurements, cut it into your desired shape, and call it a day.

Which Quartz Finish Is Better?

This question doesn’t have a definitive answer. It all boils down to what you want for your kitchen. Some people, regardless of the few demerits, go for honed quartz countertops, because they love the rustic and less-shiny finish. Similarly, other people adore the look and appeal of polished quartz countertops. So, you’re going to have to see which group you belong to. Do your research and look at the materials in person. You’ll get a good idea.

Conclusion

Whether you want to go for polished quartz or honed quartz, this guide has you covered from the front to the back. Now all that’s left to do is make a choice and consult a quartz countertop installer Rockville.

Why Is My Hair Poofy After Straightening?

Have you ever had this happen to you? You’re casually straightening your hair, and as soon as you’re done, your hair looks less straight and more like a static poofy mess. Many people who come to Brazilian blowout salons complaint about this and then opt for permanent hair straightening. Here are some reasons why your hair becomes poofy after flat ironing.

You Have Thick Hair

This is probably the most common reason why your hair might be turning poofy after you straighten it. Everyone’s hair has different porosity levels and mostly, hair can get poofy if your hair has high porosity. High porosity means that your hair absorbs moisture very quickly, but it also doesn’t retain it either. If you want to test out the hair porosity theory for yourself, then you can try the water test.

Spritz your hair with water and see how much time it takes for the mane to get fully wet and saturated with water. Now, let the hair dry and observe how much time it takes for the hair to dry. If both time windows are short, then probably your hair has high porosity. But, what does porosity have to do with straightening hair?

When you straighten your hair, the flat iron can strip the moisture from the hair, causing it to dry out very quickly. This is what causes frizz, puffiness, and overall static in your hair.

You’re Using Too Much Heat

Another thing that might be making your hair very poofy is the heat. Using a hair straightening tool is a bit of work and you need to understand the mechanism of heat settings. If you’re bumping up the heat from the get-go, then it’s going to damage your hair to no extent and you’ll feel your hair getting poofy.

This can happen even if you don’t have high-porosity hair. Let’s face it; heat can cause frizz and static like nothing else and if you want to achieve sleek and glossy hair, then you need to start with lower heat.

Your Hair Is Dry

Sometimes, your hair type can also play a role in the way it looks after getting it straightened. If you already have dry hair, then straightening it with a hot flat iron will only make matters worse. Your hair can be stripped off the moisture when you sandwich it in between two very hot plates and that’s not good for your mane at all.

If you have dry hair, then the best advice that you can get is to try to limit the use of heat at all times, otherwise, your hair will turn poofy and it won’t be a pleasant sight.

Your Hair Is Damaged

If you are a fan of coloring your hair, heat styling it almost every day, and exposing your mane to a lot of chemicals regularly, then you can see your hair getting poofy and frizzy after straightening it. Even if you don’t straighten the hair, it will look very dry and brittle and it won’t be able to settle down. These are all signs of damaged hair.

Straightening damaged hair is like inviting more and more permanent damage to the mane and it’s not recommended at all. You should give your hair a breather immediately.

Wrong Hair Straightener

Sometimes, the tools used to straighten the hair can make all of the difference. If you’re new to hair straightening and want to invest in a good straightener, then you’re going to want to search for something with ceramic plates because these plates will glide through the hair and prevent friction and frizz from forming in your strands, hence no puffiness.

However, if you’re using a straightener with plastic plates, then you can kiss your hair goodbye because plastic will rub on your hair a lot and will leave a trail of frizz behind. Not to mention that your hair will look very poofy as well.

You’re Not Using The Right Products

The products you use also have a direct effect on how your hair looks after straightening it. If you have color-treated or special hair that needs more attention and care than normal hair, then you need to invest in moisturizing products that have damage-restoring properties.

You also need to invest in shampoos that don’t have sulfate in them and go for something that has a natural ingredient list, because your hair needs all of the nutrients that it can get from hair care products. So, make it a habit to do some research, when buying new hair products.

How To Fix The Puffiness Of Your Hair

Here are some things that you can do to get rid of the puffiness in your hair.

Use Appropriate Products

Using the right products will make all of the difference when it comes to dry and damaged hair. If you don’t want your hair to look like a bird’s nest after straightening it, then you’re going to need to change things up.

You need to invest in good products that are not only going to hydrate your hair but will also get rid of the frizz building in your mane. Moisture and damage-restoring products will become your holy grail. This is helpful for getting hair extensions in salon Potomac as well.

Hydrate The Hair

If your hair is extremely dry and it’s getting poofy after you’ve straightened it, then it means that your hair needs a bit of hydration.

Invest in hydrating hair masks or make your own by using a banana, olive oil, and an egg. Mix them and if you want a smooth paste, then throw everything in a blender and whiz it up. Apply this whipped mask on your hair. Keep it on for 30 to 60 minutes before washing it off with cold water. You will instantly feel the difference.

Start With Low Heat

This tip can’t be stressed enough. You need to start with low heat, if you don’t want to shock your hair and, worse, burn it. If you’re new to hair straightening, then you need to understand the heat levels and the amount of heat that your hair can endure without getting damaged. This is why starting with the lowest heat setting is recommended.

It’s not only going to get rid of the frizz in your hair, but it will make the result look a lot more professional and sleek and you’ll be rocking straight and frizz-free hair in no time.

Protect Your Hair

Your hair also needs protection from certain things. Just like how your skin needs SPF to protect it from the sun, your hair also needs a protective barrier against nature’s reactive chemicals and substances, like chlorine, sunlight, and heat.

Make it a habit to cover your head, if you’re going to be out in the sun for a long time. This will not only prevent dryness, but it will also prevent your hair from turning prematurely gray. Also, wear a swimming cap, if you’re going to hop into chlorinated or salt water.

Conclusion

Now you know exactly why your hair is poofy after straightening, and even ways by which you can fix the mess. If you want to ditch this flat ironing routine altogether, get keratin treatment by hairstylist Potomac.

Is Your Furnace Blower Motor Faulty?

A furnace is an essential heating appliance that keeps your house comfortable and cozy when the temperature outside is freezing. Although, furnaces are rigid appliances and will perform effortlessly for years if maintained properly but can still experience some problems. A common furnace problem is the blower motor going bad and it must be replaced by certified furnace repair services. We will share a few tips that will help you determine if the blower motor has gone bad and needs replacement.

No Air From The Vents

If your furnace blower motor has gone bad or is about to go about, you will notice no air coming from the vents when you turn on the heat. You will have no other option but to replace the motor when it’s not working at all.

On the other hand, there are some other reasons as well that are causing this problem. For instance, something might be stuck in the vents preventing air from passing. It’s possible that the thermostat settings are not right.

Plus, relay issues can also cause airflow complications. That said, before you blame the blower motor, you will need to check for such factors as the blower motor does not come cheap.

If the furnace happens to be old along with the vents, there could be leaks, cracks, or damage that is causing the air to escape even before it reaches the inside of your house. You will need to perform a thorough inspection of the vents and fix any flaws.

At the same time, check if birds, rats, or other intruders have taken up accommodation. During the winter season, animals are in search of warm conditions and might end up in the furnace. The only way to prevent this is by performing regular inspections.

Increasing Energy Bills

Even though a furnace comprises several different parts the blower motor consumes the most electricity as it is responsible for circulating hot air by running constantly. This means if you notice your energy bills are going up every month, it could be the furnace struggling to be efficient.

A decrease in the furnace’s efficiency means it is working harder to heat the house in the same settings as before. Then again, there could be any other factor contributing to this issue. It could be that someone is constantly changing the thermostat settings.

Weird Noises

While running, furnaces produce a slight humming sound. If you observe weird and unusual sounds, it means something is wrong with your HVAC system. These appliances can produce rattling, squeaking, or screeching sounds. When this happens, you should immediately shut down the unit and try to determine the source of the sound.

As mentioned earlier, a furnace comprises several different parts and each could produce different types of sounds. It could be as simple as the blower motor bearing needing replacement or as bad as the blower fan giving up.

Do not attempt to diagnose the issue while the furnace is running. You can end up seriously injuring yourself considering the extremely hot temperature. Meanwhile, a rattling or knocking noise in most cases means something is broken. However, banging sounds are the most important and lethal.

It means you have to replace the whole blower motor. Depending on the make, model, and age of your furnace, the blower motor may or may not be that expensive. But you must consult an expert and have him handle the issue because regular homeowners can’t do blower motor replacements if they don’t have the experience in doing so.

Overheating

Your furnace blower motor can also overheat. Even if maintained properly, keep in mind that blower motors come with a lifespan attached. This means after several years, the components inside the blower motor will weaken and overheat. Plus, if you observe a strange smell coming from the air vents, it most likely means the blower motor is overheating.

In addition to that, if you notice the blower motor shutting off mid-operation, it means it is overheating. Then again, you will need an expert from HVAC companies Tyson’s Corner to handle the issue as an overheating blower motor is a serious problem. If not handled quickly, the overheating can also affect other parts of the furnace and, in worst cases, it can also start a fire.

The Furnace Is Not Powering Up

If your furnace has a bad blower motor, it will simply fail to turn on. Even if it manages to turn on, it will not produce or circulate hot air. Furthermore, if you have to constantly restart the furnace, it means something is seriously wrong.

Plus, it could also be a power issue or someone playing around with the thermostat settings. The thermostat determines the amount of warm air the furnace needs to produce to keep the house warm. If there is a relay or any such related issue, the furnace will fail to turn on. Contact a professional to help sort out the issue.

The Furnace Is Simply Old

If nothing else works out, it simply means your furnace is old and you will need to replace it. With time, the components inside the furnace turn weak and you cannot spend money on frequent repairs. If you notice the value of repairs and replacements crossing the actual value of the unit, it would be wise to opt for a new replacement.

When a furnace turns old, there is no guarantee that repairs and replacements will be able to hold on. At some point, the furnace will constantly experience problems and that will be the best time to opt for a replacement. A new furnace will be more efficient that your old furnace.

How Do I Prevent Furnace Problems?

Furnaces like other household appliances need maintenance to keep running smoothly for years to come. Every manufacturer recommends professional maintenance depending on the usage frequency of the unit. As a general rule of thumb, you should get the furnace maintained by a professional at least once a year.

However, if the usage frequency is mostly throughout the year, you should perform professional maintenance twice. In the meantime, you should also look out for unusual signs and symptoms that might indicate a problem. So, you will be able to fix the issue before it turns serious.

While inspecting the furnace, it is equally important to check the relevant components as well such as the vents. If you have installed an aftermarket thermostat, you might need to replace its batteries or recalibrate it.

Professional maintenance is not only limited to cleaning the unit but also checking for potential problems by spotting unusual signs and symptoms such as cracks, damage, or leakages. Most people think of it as expensive whereas it is like an investment.

By investing in professional maintenance, you get to avoid problems during extreme temperatures and keep things running problem-free for years.

Conclusion

A furnace blower motor going bad can produce several signs & symptoms. You need to be familiar with them to be able to diagnose the issue on the spot. Plus, make sure to schedule professional maintenance avoid further complications in the future and hire furnace services Arlington if you notice any of the above signs or you suspect that the blower motor is bad.

How Does Divorce Affect My Immigration Status In America?

When it’s hitch time, you don’t think about your better half’s nationality or residence status, but at the time of divorce, these things may become important. You will contact a divorce attorney asking what would happen if you get a divorce in the middle of your residency application? Here is what you must know about it.

Divorce & Immigration

This is something that can be complex, depending on the way by which you arrived in the US in the first place. Usually, immigrants can come to the US, through multiple ways.

By applying for a student visa for higher studies, like Masters, PhD and diplomas.
By investing and starting a business in the US.
By sponsorship of a permanent US resident, whether it be your parents, siblings, spouse, or someone else in the family.

These are the primary ways by which an immigrant can be granted entry into any country, and even the US, but there can be changes in circumstances that would allow you to get married there. You might find someone that you want to spend your life with, and even though they’re a US national, you can still get married to them, if they choose to sponsor you.

After getting married for a certain period, you can be allowed to apply for a conditional residency in the US, but it’s necessary to stay married until you’re eligible for the application of a green card.

This is where things can get messy. If your marriage is on the rocks and it’s been hard living together, whether it’s because of differences or any other serious issue, there can be chances that you need to file for a divorce as soon as possible. This can go both ways. Either you can lose your residency rights in the US and will have to go back to your home country or it can’t affect you at all.

There are different scenarios and cases, where things need to be evaluated, so first, you need to establish your status with your spouse at that moment as well as the status of your immigration application. Only then, will you be able to swim through the process of divorce and figure out what to do from there?

Understanding The Difference

Divorce and separation are two completely different things and the outcomes of each of them, as far as immigration is concerned, can be worlds apart as well. First, you need to establish whether you and your spouse are just taking a break or are things not working out anymore.

A divorce is a legal procedure that officially nullify your marriage. It’s done in a court, in front of a judge and it’s essentially the last resort for couples who have tried everything else but can’t seem to overlook the differences between them. Divorces can be due to many reasons. There are causes of infidelity and abuse, and if there’s no major issue like this, then there are differences that make the couple bicker with one another until they feel like they are not compatible anymore and the best way to hold onto their sanity is to go their separate ways. The point is that divorces are the last stop and after that, there is no point or reason to get back together. If you don’t want the marriage to stand anymore then divorce is the only way to put an official end to things.

As far as separation is concerned, it’s also because of rifts in the marriage, but it’s not something as permanent as a divorce. There can be times when couples might need space from each other to figure things out and rather than opting for the marriage to end, they tend to work on their differences and habits separately, and this happens when one partner moves out of the house for a little bit. This is a lot similar to marriage counseling and it’s not the end of a marriage, per se. A lot of the time, couples can find their way back to each other and then live an even better life than before. Other times, if things aren’t working out, then divorce follows up.

The reason for explaining this is that divorce and separation can have different outcomes for an immigrant. If you are getting a divorce or your spouse started a divorce process and family attorneys Fairfax VA are involved, then it might or might not affect your immigration status. However, if you’re just taking some time out, and are separated from your spouse, but the marriage is still official, then it won’t affect your immigration process or status. It’s as simple as that.

The Status Of Your Arrival In The US

Let’s say that you are getting a divorce from a US national, so what does that mean for your immigration status? Well, three scenarios can play out.

Green Card Applicant

If you’ve been married for a long time have been eligible for a green card and are in the process of getting things finalized, then a divorce will not affect your immigration status. Usually, an immigrant is eligible to apply for a green card after 19-20 years of marriage to a US national.

Spouse Dependent Visa

If you’re already facing problems in your marriage and it hasn’t even been 2 years, then it means that you are probably still on a spouse-dependent visa, and that’s the same way by which you entered the country in the first place.

If that’s the case then your divorce can nullify the visa and you will be considered a foreigner and will have to be deported as soon as the proceedings are completed and the divorce is finalized.

Conditional Residency

Usually, after 2 years of marriage, you can be eligible to apply for a conditional or temporary green card and that’s the baseline for the actual green card. This means that you’re using your spouse’s identity and residence status to stay in America.

If you get divorced within this time frame, then you can lose your immigration status and you will need to go back to your home country because you’re not a permanent resident. You’re just getting by on your spouse’s nationality or citizenship, and after divorce, that standing means nothing.

Can You Become A US Citizen After A Divorce?

You can only become a US citizen, if you’re eligible for a green card or have already applied for it, before the divorce. If your application is in the pipeline then it won’t affect your residency, but you need to understand the fact that it might take more time for you to become a US national after divorce because the law is different for an applying immigrant wanting to become a US national.

If you fit the eligibility criteria, then citizenship shouldn’t be an issue and you will secure a green card in the allocated time.

Conclusion

These things can be a bit complicated to deal with, especially if you’re living in the US and figuring things out, as you go, but they’re good to know at the time of your divorce. And you must consult a divorce lawyer Fairfax VA who have relevant experience.

How To Prevent Your Washer From Damaging Your Clothes?

Washing machines are one of the most important household appliances. However, it is often that people complain about their clothes being damaged. While it comes as a surprise to many, many things can cause this. You should not assume that you washer is faulty. However, sometimes, you do need washer repair. Here is how you can prevent your washer from damaging your clothes.

Ignoring The Manual

A common mistakes people make when using washing machines is ignoring the user manual. Although washing machines are designed to wash and dry a variety of clothes, that does not work for every type. While some washing machines can wash regular jackets, sweaters, t-shirts, etc. others cannot handle jeans or leather products.

As a result, when such items are placed in the washing machine, the material gets damaged simply because it was supposed to be manually washed and not by a machine. This is why owners must always go through the user manual to become familiar with their machines especially when it comes to limitations.

Furthermore, washing machines also come with precautions mentioned at multiple locations specifying the type of clothes a particular unit can wash. Depending on the make, model, and variant, your washing machine might not be able to wash wool clothes.

Similarly, you should also read the tag attached to the clothes before you place them inside the washing machine. If it reads hand wash, it means the material will get damaged as soon as the washing machine begins its first cycle. In such a case, you cannot blame the machine for your ignorance.

Choosing The Wrong Wash Selectors

Modern washing machines are not only smart but also intelligent. These machines are loaded with features that point to their versatility in terms of washing different types of clothes. However, having multiple features does not mean you use them at the wrong time.

If the features are use incorrectly, do not be surprised if your clothes come out to be damaged. In most cases, washing machines come with wash selectors such as Gentle, Normal, and Strong. Depending on the variant, the terms may differ but will mean the same. To prevent damaging your clothes, you need to understand what each of the selectors do.

Gentle wash is commonly used for soft fabrics such as wool, silk, and knits. Normal wash is for cotton and linen fabrics. Whereas, strong wash is meant for linen or dirty and soiled cotton fabrics. Therefore, if your clothes have “Gentle Wash” mentioned on the label, you should not go for a strong wash.

Mixing Laundry The Wrong Way

Another common mistake made by people is mixing laundry the wrong way. Mixing cotton with silk and leather clothes is not what you think it will end up like. Lumping the clothes together and then dumping them all into the washing machine will have consequences.

To avoid any damage, it is better to sort laundry first. The light fabric clothes should be separated from the heavy fabrics. This is because the heavy fabrics could damage the finer weaves of the light fabrics during the washing process.

At the same time, you should also sort out the clothes based on their type so that you can use the same wash selector. At the end of the day, it is all about spending a few more minutes sorting out the clothes. However, it goes a long way in terms of preserving your precious clothes.

Long And Excessive Washing

One major factor you need to keep in mind while using the washing machine is that clothes based on their type should not be washed beyond their recommended duration. It is often that homeowners tend to dump all their clothes into the washing machine and let it run for minutes.

It is often believed that the longer the washing machine runs, the better the washing results. But that is not the case. Washers are not freezers and refrigerators. You will simply be wasting electricity and burdening your washing machine along with risking damaging the clothes as well.

Not Using The Right Detergent

Using the right detergent also determines how safely you are going to wash your clothes. Then again, depending on the type of washing machine, different types of detergents are recommended. For instance, the detergents used in Top Loading machines are different from the ones used in Front Loading washing machines.

Detergents used in front-loading machines clean well but do not produce much foam. Furthermore, there are also liquid and powdered detergents. Liquid detergents are the best choice for cold and quick washes as they dissolve easily. On the other hand, powdered detergents are a more budget-friendly option but not the best choice for washing delicate fibers under 30 degrees.

Using Too Much Detergent

It is a common misconception that using too much detergent will result in cleaner clothes. The fact is that excessively using a detergent or using too much will damage the fabric by fading and attracting even more dirt. In addition to that, the excessive soap can get trapped and will not dissolve. This is why you might also observe a strong detergent odor coming from the clothes after the washing cycle.

The excessive use of powdered detergents can make the clothes stiff while liquid detergents can cause fading. The best way to avoid such a situation is by consulting the user manual to determine the exact ratio depending on the fabric.

Overloading The Machine

Overloading the washing machine is a common practice by people to save some time. While it may be tempting to dump all the clothes at once, you should know that it will end up both damaging the machine itself and the clothes. Every washing machine comes with a maximum weight limit.

If you were to load the machine beyond its maximum weight, you would simply end up damaging it along with the clothes. This is a silly mistake to make, but homeowners often find it effective for quickly getting done with a bunch of clothes at the same time.

An identical mistake is common in dishwashers and refrigerators. People overload the dishwasher or don’t place the dishes in their racks. This can damage the appliance and the dishes. Similarly, overstuffing the refrigerator can cause problems and break down the appliance or spoil the food leading you to consider refrigerator repair Northern VA.

Leaving Zips And Buttons Undone

When washing jeans, sweaters, or other items with zips and buttons, you need to make sure they are not undone to prevent them from tangling up with fabric. There have been many incidents where people simply ignored this basic tip and ended up damaging their clothes to the point of no return.

Therefore, you need to make sure and go through each clothing item to remove or check any sharp objects or items that might get stuck and wreak havoc.

Conclusion

If your washer is damaging your clothes, you need to keep the above-mentioned factors in mind to ensure it does not happen in the future. Sometimes, the problem is not the machine itself but the technique and the products used. Even though it is hard to observe, this guide will surely help you get to the root cause of the problem in no time. If you are worried the washer is faulty, consult an appliance repair Springfield service.

What Is The Difference Between Water Purifiers And Water Filters?

If you’ve got unfiltered and dirty water coming through your taps and faucets, then that’s a major problem. Well, there are several ways by which you can make water safe for drinking. Two of those ways are using a water filtration system or a water purification system. Here is everything you need to know about each of these methods.

Water Purifiers

A water purifier is just what it sounds like. It goes the extra mile of purifying your water and getting rid of all kinds of harmful toxins, metals, bacteria, and viruses in the water. It is a machine or a set of equipment, depending on what type of water purification method you want to use, and it’s installed near the main pipelines of your house, from where the supply water is coming.

If you’re confused because you don’t know whether you should use a water purifier or a water filter then the best way to navigate through this problem is to figure out what’s in your water, in the first place. You need to figure out what impurities and contaminants the water contains because that’s going to let you know what kind of method will be the best and most efficient to give you pure and safe water.

Types Of Water Purifiers

Water purifiers are of many types, some of which are:

Reverse Osmosis Plant

it’s a type of water purifier that gets rid of almost 99.9% of impurities from the water. It works on the mechanism of a semipermeable membrane that allows molecules of water to pass through and leaves everything behind, be it metals, sand, bacteria, microorganisms, etc.

It’s a great thing to install if you have extremely dirty water coming through your pipes and you want a foolproof way of purifying it.

Deionization

Deionization is a process that removes all of the charged particles from the water. This leaves the water neutral, inert, and, most of all, clean. Water deionization is a relatively newer purification process, but it is quite promising and it gets the job done quickly.

If you have insanely salty water coming through your supply pipes, or if the water is hard and has an excess concentration of calcium and magnesium, then a deionizer is going to be your best friend and it will get rid of all of the unwanted ions in the water and you’ll be left with potable water that can be used for literally anything and everything.

Distillation

Distillation is also a very common purification process but it’s not used as commonly in houses, as it is in industries and laboratories. Distillation is the boiling of water and the condensation of the vapors produced by boiling.

This leads to water that’s almost 100% pure, but the main problem with this process is that it also gets rid of all of the minerals that are necessary in the water, like calcium, sodium, and other electrolytes. The water is relatively pure and tastes amazing, but without minerals and electrolytes, it’s not as good for your body.

Why Water Purification Methods Are Used?

Water purification is a great method to employ if you want to guarantee that the water you’re drinking is safe from all kinds of impurities. It is, however, a very expensive investment and it’s nowhere near as reasonable and cheap as water filters.

So, you need to do your research and find the best purification method for yourself because as you can see, every purification method works differently and removes different impurities, and leads to completely different results, so this is something to consider carefully.

If you want a short-term solution, you can skip installing a water purifier and have a drinking water delivery service Warren deliver water to your home or office.

Water Filters

A water filter is a mechanical contraption that uses meshes and screens to remove the impurities from the water. Water filters are great to use if you have dirty water coming in through your taps and faucets and you want a quick fix.

The meshes or screens allow the impurities to stay behind, whereas the water, that is not clean, can flush forward and you will be good to go. Water filters are a go-to in most houses, if not all because they’re convenient and super cheap. You can change them easily and there’s no fuss involved in the process.

Water filters work best for the removal of impurities if your water has the following things:

Sand
Silt particles
Suspended particles of dirt
Metal particles like iron, cadmium, nickel, etc.
Bacteria and living organisms that are large-sized, and the list goes on.

Water Filters Are Affordable

Water filters are a cheap and reasonable option to go for if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to purify your water without having to invest in special equipment and machines.

Low Maintenance

It also requires little to no maintenance and the only thing you need to do is change the filter or mesh screens regularly and you’ll be good to go for a long time. The number of times you have to change your filter depends on the fact of how dirty or clean the water is.

If the supply water is very murky and there’s a lot of dirt suspended in it, then you’ll need to regularly change your filters. Otherwise, you can go on for months without changing the filters and there won’t be an issue. Just make sure to keep an eye out for the water. Once the filter starts to misbehave, as in not filtering the water properly, then it’s time to change it up and get a new one.

They Can’t Make Water Soft

Water filters can remove many things, but one thing that they can’t remove is the hardness of water. Hard water is water that contains a high concentration of calcium and magnesium ions and it can affect the use of water around the house. It doesn’t lather up. It wastes a lot of detergent and it also stains the clothes and dishes like a nightmare.

If you pass hard water through a water filter, then nothing will happen because the ions are dissolved in the water rather than being suspended and that is a huge issue, which is why water filters cannot be used for turning hard water into soft water.

You’re going to have to treat hard water first through the ion exchange process and then, if it’s still murky, you can pass it through a water filter, and only then you will have clean and safe water for drinking.

So, a water filter isn’t the best when it comes to water being chemically altered and you’ll need some sort of purifying or softening system to get rid of the excess ions in the water to make it potable.

Water Filters Can’t Remove Smaller Bacteria And Viruses

Water filters are great and all, but they’re not an all-around thing that you can use to get safe and potable water because they can’t purify dirty water and completely get rid of bacteria and viruses so that shaves off some points.

But if you’re looking for something to give you clean and clear water, quickly, and that’s the only thing that concerns you, then a water filter is more than sufficient.

Conclusion

Water purification and water filtration are two completely different things and they serve different purposes. Now that you know exactly what they are, you can decide as to which one is better. Research different types of whole house water filtration Meadville systems to decide on the right one.

How To Cut Costs Of Swimming Pool Construction?

Having a swimming pool in your backyard can be expensive. As a result, people who dream of building a swimming pool usually look the other way. However, if you are wise and smart with your decisions, you can cut costs to the point where you can afford a pool. And we are talking about getting it built by in ground pool builders. No DIY stuff. Here is a list of some important tips that will help you turn your dream into reality without breaking the bank.

Get Multiple Bids

The first thing you need to do when it comes to cutting costs of swimming pool construction is to get multiple bids. While looking for the best swimming pool building companies out there, you will come across many that will quote their prices based on several factors. Talking to only one company will not help you that much.

You need to have at least three bids in your cap. That way, you will be able to compare and decide which package is going to suit you the best. Plus, ask for referrals from your social circle. If you have someone close to a pool in their house, you should ask them to share the contact information of the constructors.

Make sure to reach out to the referrals as building a swimming pool is not an easy task. You might have to temporarily shift accommodation, which means that you need someone trustworthy. On top of that, referrals will not only help you spend money the right way but also cut it wherever possible.

Think About The Big Picture

Sometimes, larger upfront costs can lead to huge savings down the line. Most homeowners are of the view that building a swimming pool from start to finish is going to leave their bank accounts empty. As a result, they opt for cheap quality materials not realizing the fact that they will be shelling out money for maintenance and repairs after a few years.

This means that there most probably will come a point after a decade or so where they would have spent more money on maintenance than the actual cost of the entire pool. Therefore, choosing the best quality materials and spending money upfront will save you from such troubles in the future.

There was a time when concrete pools were almost always out of reach of common households. Today, due to competition, they have become affordable to the point where they cost even less than fiberglass swimming pools. All this means is that you need to look at the bigger picture when building a pool.

You might be able to save money in the start but will end up spending a lot more as the years go by.

Go With A Simple Design

The cost of a swimming pool depends on design and several other important factors. Not every design can be implemented based on the available size and dimensions of the house. Every homeowner wants to have a unique swimming pool in their house but that costs money.

So, the best way to save money in that department is by opting for a simple design. The more curves, edges, and shelves, the more the price. Therefore, opt for a swimming pool that looks simple yet elegant. This will not only help keep the price down but also make maintenance easy.

Focus On Practicality

Focusing on practicality is yet another important point that will help you keep the costs down. The thing is that most homeowners want their pools to look aesthetically unique. Since they want the ‘wow’ factor, they focus on adding features and luxuries that offer no value.

As a result, they find themselves in a tough spot when the total costs add up. The best way to prevent such situations especially if you are working with a limited budget is to focus on practicality. Having a pool that makes it easier and convenient for people to spend good quality time is a lot better than having a pool that offers luxuries that are of no use.

Plus, focusing on practicality will also help increase the resale value of your property at a minimum cost. Adding a deck or patio with a pool increases the value of a pool, so if you want, you should hire patio builders Long Island who can work with the contractor who’s building the pool. Many companies also offer both services.

Do The Maintenance

Once the swimming pool has been built, you should learn to perform pool maintenance on your own. Although, there is no match for professional maintenance that will cost you money. That is fine as long as you have a bigger pool. However, if you have a relatively smaller pool, you can easily learn the tips and tricks to keep it looking brand new.

All you need to do is invest in some cleaning tools and supplies and make a maintenance schedule. If possible and depending on the usage frequency, you will need to clean the pool at least once or twice a month. In addition to that, you will also need to consider the external factors.

Lay down a cover on the pool or simply drain it before a thunderstorm kicks in. This will help prevent water from entering the house or damaging other valuables in the surroundings.

Use Supplemental Sanitation

To keep the pool water clean, homeowners mostly use chlorine and other expensive chemicals. This can significantly increase the costs considering you have to add them regularly to the pool. Instead, you should opt for supplemental sanitation such as the Advanced Oxidation system that will help eliminate unwanted pollutants and contaminants in the pool.

Not only that, you will also be able to reduce your chlorine consumption, offering you a much better swimming experience. Keep in mind that chlorine manufacturing causes a significant amount of pollution and negatively impacts the environment.

Switch To A Variable-Speed Pump

Variable-speed pumps can cost you a lot of money when compared to traditional single-speed and dual-speed pumps. Variable-speed pumps allow you to adjust the speed depending on the pool’s needs. This means that you can run the pump for much longer, have better circulation, and keep the energy bills low.

Today, variable-speed pumps have become popular to the point where some states have regulations requiring people to use only variable-speed pumps.

Keep Your Footprint Small

Another common mistake homeowners tend to make is using the entire space available for building a pool. This should not be a problem unless you are working with a limited budget. It is common for homeowners to feel tempted to utilize all the space for a pool without realizing the fact that it will only increase the cost.

Therefore, one needs to be smart here. To cut costs, you should opt for a small and practical pool over a large, lavish one. A smaller pool with a simple design means lower labor costs and fewer materials. Additionally, it will also help you save money on maintenance.

However, keep in mind that going too small won’t help you reduce the costs. Plus, choose the right location for the pool as well. If the location you have decided needs foundational work to be done, it will add to the overall costs.

That said, choosing a location that requires minimum work and labor will help reduce costs.

Conclusion

Always plan ahead and focus on practicality. Take your time in choosing the location and have a pool contractor Long Island on your side throughout the process. It will surely cost you but help spend money the right way.