When planting trees, shrubs and other plants in your yard, you need to consider few basics. The following has been generated to remind you some of this key elements. Sun exposure: Your trees and shrubs need sunlight most of the day in order to grow properly and get nutrients they need. Instruction that comes with many plants will tell you what type of sun exposure it needs. In order to get good results, you need to pay attention to sun exposure requirements. Overhangs that prevent rain water reaching the soil: When planting trees and shrubs adjacent to walls consider any overhangs that may prevent rain water. Rain is a good…

Finally the fall is here. It is that time of the year you bring all your potted plants indoors or to under some cover over them. When that happens there are three main areas that you need to monitor for the vitality of plants; moisture, light and temperature. There are plenty of gadgets available in the market for you to monitor these areas. Here’s a reminder what to look for. Moisture: There are no hard rules about watering except paying attention to the plant. Use your judgment. Depends on the type of plant, type of soil in the pot, weather and sun exposure usually contributes how much to water. Check…

Among many FAQs about carpet cleaning, we decided to explore the following: How soon my carpet will dry after cleaning? Drying time could vary depending on the air flow inside the room, humidity, and the type of carpet.  Traditionally it can take somewhere from two hours to 12 hours to dry the carpet.  It may be ok to walk on wet carpet with clean shoes, socks or feet while it is drying but limit traffic on the carpet as much as possible. What kind of cleaning agents should I use to clean carpets? Basic carpet cleaning agents are similar to your laundry detergent.  So, if you have family members that…

Not many homes come with walk-in closets besides the master bedroom. But everyone wish all rooms to have a walk-in closet. Here are few ways you can improve your existing closet space regardless of its size. Add more mirrors: It gives the illusion of more space while providing an essential service and reflecting light. Add mirrors to doors, walls or even top of dressers. Add more light: Your closet is the most neglected portion of the home when it comes to lighting. Add track lights or any other lighting and focus them on to where you need most. User friendly hangers: They come in many colors and made to provide…

Year 2012 closed the books as one of the hottest year in records. Heat spells are making records this year too. In order to keep your heating and cooling cost in check, you need to maintain your equipment including regular inspections and service. Regular maintenance include cleaning inside and outside condenser coils, parts lubrication, airflow adjustments, ductwork inspection and calibrating thermostats. Accumulation of dust and debris in the coils is a common problem. The coil maintenance is important in removing heated air. It is not just for summer only. At least twice a year, before summer and winter, your units should be inspected and cleaned if required. If your system…

Here is a list of few of the most common sprinkler problems and solutions: Overspray or what the professional’s call arc misalignment. If you observe that your sprinkler is spraying your sidewalk instead of your grass, you have this problem. You can adjust the nozzle or if needed replace it with the correct arc. Plants that are blocking sprinkler spray. You can add a riser to the sprinkler or you can trim the plant to avoid the obstruction. Leaks. If you notice water coming out of the base, it is time to replace the wiper seal. Due to high pressure, you may see misting or fogging. It is time to…

Patio umbrella is the perfect accessory to your outdoor living space. It will protect you, your family and guests from the sun’s harmful UV rays especially during the summer. It also defines an area within your outdoor space for sitting as well as for eating and relaxing. Therefore, it is important to select an umbrella for your outdoor living area carefully. Few factors are important in selecting an umbrella. Pay attention to the local climate. Where I live, we get blowing wind almost every day in the afternoon. So, an umbrella not only looks pretty but also should withstand the wind. Another consideration is wear and tear. Sun beating down…

Home remodeling is a daunting task that many would not dare to take on.  But some remodeling such as a bathroom remodel can pay back 70 to 90 percent of the cost.  Additionally, even if you don’t sell your home after remodel, imagine the satisfaction you will be getting from the project for your life.  Before you embark on your bathroom   remodeling project, here are some ideas for you to consider. Consider the cost of a remodel.  Write down everything you like to have and start paring down the items that you can’t afford due to your budget and other factors. Remodeling should be fashionable as well as functional.  Visit…

A typical U.S. household spends approximately $1,300 a year on energy.  Approximately 50 to 70 percent of the energy cost goes to heating and cooling of a home.  Here are some ways to save on energy. Take a look at your insulation. Start at the top of the house in your attic.  If your attic insulation is sparse or need additional fillings, replenish them immediately.  Most attic spaces are very accessible and it is the most important area to properly insulate in order to save heating loss.  Use fiberglass loose fill or other suitable material that provides superior thermal efficiency.  They also provide better sound proofing.  You may be eligible…

During the holidays we all get family and friends who may want to spend few days at your home.  If you are considering giving a facelift to your guest bathroom here are some improvement ideas based on length of time required to complete them. If you have more than a week before the family and guests arrive, you can make a big improvement to your guest bathroom.  Start with the vanity.  Premade cabinets with a sink in place are available to purchase at any home improvement store.  If you don’t need storage, a pedestal sink can give an illusion of space inside the bathroom.  You can also install a lead-free,…