What Is Better, Quartz or Engineered Stone?

Posted on December 16, 2022 by Dean

quartz countertops

The answer to this question is not as simple as it seems. The main reason is that quartz and engineered stone countertops are two different products regarding their properties, characteristics, installation, and maintenance.

If you are finding it hard to pick between the two, this article will come in handy as it will help you make a choice based on different factors. Some factors differentiate the two materials that will help you choose.

Appearance

When it comes to appearance, quartz is glossier and naturally translucent, while engineered stone has a matte finish and can be made to look like any stone. Both quartz and engineered stone come in many colors, but quartz also comes in a wide variety of hues that mimic natural stones such as marble or granite.

Cost

Quartz is more expensive than engineered stone because it’s harder to produce and requires more labor than engineered stone. Quartz also has more color and texture variation than engineered stone because each piece is unique, while the engineered stone is made in batches of uniform pieces.

Quartz has more thickness variation than engineered stone because it’s hand-cut rather than mass-produced at a factory.

Composition

Quartz is a natural stone that uses sand, crushed and sifted to a specific size, as the aggregate. It can be produced in various colors and finishes, which makes it popular in countertops.

Engineered stone has man-made components, such as quartz or glass. It’s made with a resin binder and color pigment layered with stone-like particles. However, quartz and engineered stone are solid surfaces that don’t need to be sealed, but you should always check the manufacturer’s instructions before applying any products to them.

Durability

While both countertops are durable enough for everyday use, quartz is generally more scratch resistant than engineered stone.

However, if you want a countertop that will show less wear over time, you’ll probably find that engineered stone is the better option since it can be made to look like granite or marble, which tends to resist scratches better than other stones such as slate or travertine.

Installation

In terms of installation cost, quartz tends to be slightly less expensive than most forms of engineered stone because it does not require additional finishing touches like honing or polishing after installation, which adds significantly to the cost of installing other types of countertops, including some forms of engineered stone.

Heat Resistance

Quartz is exceptionally heat-resistant and can withstand high temperatures without cracking or chipping. It also has excellent resistance to acids, alkalis, and other chemicals.

Engineered stone is less resistant to heat than quartz, but it’s still a good choice for bathrooms where hot water comes into contact with the surface daily.

Slip Resistance

Slip resistance is crucial in most bathrooms because people often use them to clean up spills or wash their hands. However, quartz is much more slip-resistant than engineered stone because it has a harder surface that doesn’t absorb moisture as easily as engineered stone.

Maintenance

Quartz requires minimal maintenance and can be cleaned with mild soap and water or an acidic cleaning solution. The engineered stone should not be cleaned with harsh chemicals or abrasives because they could damage the surface.

Suppose your engineered stone has scratches or stains that won’t come off with normal cleaning. In that case, you may consider resurfacing it with diamond-polishing pads or another abrasive compound.

Bottom Line

Ultimately, the material you pick between the two comes from personal preference and your budget. If you want to go with something less expensive than quartz countertops Potomac, then engineered stone may be right up your alley.

If you want something more natural-looking with fewer imperfections, then quartz may be the way to go.

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Persian Rug Décor Tips

Posted on November 25, 2022 by Dean

persian rugs

Persian rugs are a great way to add color and texture to your home. They can also be used to add warmth and comfort to a room.

However, most people have no idea how to style their rugs once they have purchased them. Here are several tips for decorating with Persian rugs to ensure you get the most out of them aesthetically.

Choose the right rug size for the room.

A large rug may overwhelm a small space, while too small a rug will look lost in even the largest room. The best way to determine what size rug you need is to measure the open floor space and subtract 5-6 inches from the length and width.

This will give you the approximate square footage of an open area that needs covering by your rug. The most common sizes are 6×9 ft., 8×10 ft., 9×12 ft., and 10×14 ft., That said, it depends on how much of the floor you want covered by the rug or how much money you want to spend on one.

If you are using multiple rugs together in one room, make sure they all have matching colors or at least complement each other so they don’t clash visually when placed next to each other on the floor.

Place a Persian rug in an area with lots of traffic

Place your Persian rug in a room with lots of traffic so that people can admire its beauty every time they walk by. The best place for this would be at your home or office entrance. If you have enough space, place your Persian rug on either side of the entrance so that more people can see it.

Another idea is to place your Persian rugs on either side of your fireplace or fireplace mantelpiece so that everyone can admire them while they sit around the fireplace with their friends and family members during winter.

Choose a design that matches your room décor

You can find Persian rugs in all shapes and sizes, so you can pick one that fits your space perfectly.

When decorating with a Persian rug, there is no limit to what you can do. If you want to add more color to your home, consider purchasing a brightly colored rug. These colorful rugs look great in front of a fireplace or near a window where sunlight can shine.

If you want something more traditional in your home, consider buying a neutral-colored rug instead. Neutral colors go well with any furniture or wall decor in your house and help tie the whole room together nicely.

Don’t be afraid to mix patterns, styles, and sizes

Mixing different patterns is a great way to create a fun and bold look in your home. The wonderful thing about rugs is that they can tie together any room, from your bedroom to the kitchen. They are an easy way to add personality and style to any room.

Use a Persian rug runner to define a space or create an entryway

A Persian rug runner is perfect for adding the finishing touch to an entranceway or hallway. Whether you choose one with an exciting pattern or one more neutral, you can use it to set the tone for other design elements in the room.

For example, if you have decided to use bright colors throughout your living room, using a neutral-colored Persian rug runner will help keep things balanced and organized.

Bottom Line

Persian antique rugs Virgin is one of the most beautiful forms of décor available today, and they can be used in various ways. There are many different styles and designs to choose from, ranging from classic to modern.

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How Do You Pick The Perfect Granite Countertops?

Posted on October 27, 2022 by Dean

granite countertops

Choosing granite countertops is a big decision because it can make or break your home. As such, there are many factors to consider when choosing granite, including color, pattern, thickness, durability, and maintenance. 

While you may be tempted to opt for the most expensive option, you don’t want to skimp on quality. Here are several tips to help you pick the perfect granite countertops for your home.

Consider your budget

You can get beautiful granite countertops for every budget, from $25 per square foot to $50 per square foot. 

The most important thing is to ensure you get enough information about each type of stone to find precisely what you need within your budget without compromising quality or beauty.

Think about maintenance

Granite is a natural material that requires some maintenance over time, especially if you have kids who like to leave dishes in the sink overnight or cook in their high school chemistry class. 

You, therefore, want to ensure that your choice of granite matches your lifestyle so that cleaning won’t become too much work.

Think about the size of your countertops

The size of your granite countertops depends on how much space you have available in your kitchen and what type of sink you want to install. A single-bowl sink is usually between 36 and 48 inches wide, while double-bowl sinks are generally between 42 and 60 inches wide. 

A standard-size countertop is 30 inches deep, so you should add another inch if you plan to install an undermount sink instead of an overmount one. 

If your cabinets are taller than 30 inches, consider getting custom-made cabinets if possible. Otherwise, ensure that there are at least 6 inches between the top of the cabinets and the bottom edge of the granite when installed so that people can still reach their appliances comfortably without having to bend over too much.

Consider the pros and cons of your kitchen style.

Your kitchen style will help you decide if you want a natural stone or a man-made one. If you have an industrial or modern kitchen, granite is a great choice because it offers a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures. 

Granite can also look great in traditional kitchens with country or farmhouse themes.

Choose a slab that matches your style and budget.

Granite is available in many colors and patterns to find the right look for your kitchen or bathroom. Slabs are also available in different thicknesses, which affects price and weight. 

Thicker slabs are more expensive but are also heavier than thinner slabs. If you can’t lift heavy objects with ease, consider using thinner slabs instead of thicker ones.

Look at samples before making your final choice.

Granite varies widely in color and pattern from slab to slab, so it’s important to see lots of samples before deciding on one that works best for your kitchen or bathroom. 

Ask your installer if they have any samples on hand that they can show you. Better still, you can ask them where they get their samples from so you can see some yourself before choosing one for your project.

Consider whether or not you want to have polished or brushed edges.

Granite is available in many different finishes, including polished and brushed surfaces. Polished edges are more expensive but tend to look better than brushed edges. 

The only downside is that they show fingerprints more easily than polished edges. Brushed edges, on the other hand, can be cheaper than polished ones but also show dirt more easily, and they are less attractive overall compared to polished edges.

Bottom Line

For a good reason, granite is one of the most popular home countertop materials. It’s durable, timeless, and easy to care for.

If you’re considering getting granite kitchen countertops Raleigh NC, these tips will help you pick the perfect ones for your home.

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What to Burn to Clean Chimney

Posted on September 29, 2022 by Dean

A chimney is an essential part of your home. It not only provides you with a way to heat and cook, but it also creates a focal point in your home. However, if you don’t clean it regularly, it can become clogged with soot and ash.

If this happens, you’ll have difficulty getting a fire started.

Fortunately, there are some things that you can burn in your fireplace or wood stove that will burn hot enough to clean out the soot and ash that has built up over time without the need of hiring chimney sweep services. Here are some things that work well for this purpose.

Newspaper

When was the last time you read yesterday’s newspaper? Paper burns very hot, and the ink combines with carbon from burning wood chips to create a clean burn without producing too much ash or smoke.

This makes newspaper an ideal fuel for cleaning out your fireplace when you want something that will leave little residue behind once it’s burned up completely.

Pine cones

Pine cones are a great way to prepare your wood-burning fireplace for the upcoming winter. Pine cones are dry and will burn hot and fast, making them perfect for cleaning your chimney.

The best way to use pine cones is to open your fireplace damper and place them directly into the fireplace. You can also put them in paper bags or wrap them in newspaper before placing them in the fireplace.

As soon as the pine cones start to smoke and catch fire, you’ll know they’re ready to be thrown out of the fireplace. However, before they do that, they can be used as kindling for starting fires in other areas of your home or cabin.

Coffee grounds

Coffee grounds, in particular, make an excellent fire starter because they’re lightweight and have a low moisture content. They also have a high oil content that helps them burn slowly and steadily.

If you have lots of coffee grounds left over from morning brews, you can mix them with sawdust or wood shavings. This combination is especially effective when using wood as the primary fuel source for your fire.

Leaves, grass clippings, and twigs

Before trying anything else, make sure you have a good supply of dry leaves, grass clippings, or twigs available before trying anything else. This is because you want something that will burn hot enough to heat the smoke chamber walls and cause them to expand slightly so they can be scraped clean with a wire brush or poker rod.

Corn cobs

Corn cobs are a great way to start a fire in the fireplace. The cobs burn slowly and provide an excellent base for your fireplace log.

The cobs will also withstand high temperatures without breaking down, making them ideal for use with wood stoves and fireplaces.

Sawdust

Sawdust is the most common material used to clean chimneys. It burns quickly, so you’ll need a lot of it ready to go. Nonetheless, it does not produce smoke or soot and is inexpensive.

The only drawback is that sawdust can leave a mess to clean up after the fire. So make sure you’ve got plenty of rags or newspapers on hand to wipe up any spills and keep your hearth tidy.

Bottom Line

It’s essential to clean out your fireplace before using it again after winter has passed. Most state fire codes require homeowners who burn wood in their fireplaces to clean their chimneys once per year.

These suggestions will work well if you don’t know how to go about it. If you are having a problem  cleaning your chimney using the above tricks, get the input of expert chimney contractors Upper Marlboro. 

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Guide to Building A Pool Without Breaking the Bank

Posted on August 17, 2022 by Dean

swimming pool

As much as a pool adds value to your quality of life and enhances the enjoyment of your home, putting one up doesn’t come cheap. Luckily, there are a number of ways you can use to construct a pool that doesn’t cost you an arm and a leg. Which are some of these ways? Here they are as given by expert pool builders:

Choose a cheaper pool design

If this is the first time, you are building a pool, you should know that there are many types of pools, some cheap, others expensive to build.

One of the most popular pools are in-ground pools that are often more expensive to build, and their construction time can be lengthy. The cool side of them is they are luxurious, have a longer life span, and you can custom make them fit any shape or size of the yard.

There are also above-ground pools that are a little less expensive to build. Unfortunately, they aren’t as long-lasting as their in-ground counterparts.

Using vinyl liners, you build the pools using resin, aluminum, or steel sidings. You can also easily assemble and dismantle them, and since they aren’t permanent structures, you can take them with you, in the event you want to move houses. These pools are an excellent choice when operating on a tight budget and don’t have yard access.

Would you love to build a hot tub or spa to relax during the hot days of the year? You have two options: portable or permanent spas.

From their names, portable spas are those that you can easily move around. They often sit above the ground, cost less, and are easy to install.

On the other hand, permanent spas are built in the ground and are usually made from concrete or granite. They cost twice as much as portable spas, but they are usually energy-efficient and can significantly increase the value of your home.

Be easy on the accessories.

When you are putting up a pool for the first time, it’s easy to get carried away and want to install every bell and whistle possible on the pools. Unfortunately, this is the quickest way to breaking the bank.

Hold back on the accessories to have the pool of your dreams and still have some money left. For example, you should avoid installing heat pumps. As much as they are a popular addition, they significantly drive up the price of the pool, so you should stay away from them.

Watch your decking materials.

Besides watching the accessories you use in your pool, also pay attention to the materials you use on your decking, as choosing the wrong materials can end up being too expensive. As a rule of thumb, stay away from expensive materials such as stone or travertine.

If operating on a tight budget, go for cheaper alternatives such as wood or concrete. It also doesn’t hurt, considering using stamped concrete that is affordable and highly durable.

Always shop around

This is a no-brainer. You have to shop around to save money and see what is available in the market. You should shop around from the pool contractors Long Island to the pool materials.

While you should look around at what is available, you should avoid extremely cheap contractors or materials, as they won’t give you the results you are after.

For example, an extremely cheap contractor means they are inexperienced, and chances are high they won’t properly install the pool, and you don’t want this, do you?

Cheap materials, on the other hand, don’t meet the code requirements, which increases the chances of accidents.

For the best outcome, go for contractors and materials that give you the best of both worlds—cost-effectiveness and reliability.

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How Do I Protect My Outdoor Fireplace?

Posted on July 19, 2022 by Dean

outdoor fireplace

An outdoor fireplace is a great way to heat your space during the winter months, and after spending a tidy sum on expert outdoor fireplace builders installing it, you don’t want it to go to ruins after a short time, do you? To ensure this doesn’t happen, you have to protect it.

Are you wondering how do I protect my outdoor fireplace? There are plenty of ways to go about it. Here are some of the things to do: 

Use the right wood

Fireplace owners often use whatever wood they can get their hands on, but there’s a difference between types of wood. If you want to keep your outdoor fireplace in good condition, ensure that you only use dry hardwood pieces like maple or oak.

These types of woods burn longer and more evenly than softwoods such as pine or cedar, which tend to produce more ashes and creosote. Creosote causes chimney fires, so if you’re going to burn softwoods, be sure to clean out your chimney every year or two.

Keep it dry

Water is one of the biggest threats to outdoor fires because it can cause rusting and cracking in metal or stone fireplaces. To protect your fireplace from water damage, cover it with a waterproof cover when not in use, or install a screen that will keep the rain out of the firebox.

Clean it regularly

The best way to clean your fire pit is to clean it regularly. You can do this with a soft brush. If you have a metal grate, you can use a wire brush or steel wool to get into the crevasses and remove any rust or gunk built up there.

It’s best not to use soap or detergent on your fire pit because these products can damage the surface of the stones and may even cause them to crack or break if they’re not cleaned off immediately after use.

If your fireplace has an exposed stone surface, you should also ensure that it’s sealed with a good quality sealer every year or two, protecting it from water damage and help preserve its natural beauty for years to come.

Maintain its structural integrity

If you have an old-style stone or brick fireplace, it may be essential to maintain its structural integrity and appearance.

The stones that make up your outdoor fireplace can become loose over time due to erosion or other environmental factors like rainwater runoff.

This can lead to cracks in between them which could cause them all to fall apart over time if not repaired properly.

Don’t burn too much at once

The best way to prevent creosote from building up in the chimney is by keeping the fire small and burning it for only an hour or two at a time.

Don’t put anything combustible in front of the fireplace unless it’s protected by bricks or something else that will keep sparks from flying out.

Use a metal screen on top of the bricks or rocks.

If you have an open outdoor fireplace on top, make sure that you have a metal screen installed so that sparks do not fly out into your yard or driveway when you’re burning wood.

It may also help keep animals from jumping in and getting burned by the fire if they jump in while it’s still hot.

Keep all flammable materials from the fireplace.

This includes dry leaves and grasses, wood piles, and shrubbery. Ensure that children don’t play near the area where you burn your firewood, especially after dark when they can’t see any sparks flying out from inside the chimney.

Bottom Line

If you have an outdoor fireplace, you know how enjoyable sitting around a warm fire with friends and family can be. To continue enjoying your unit for long, observe the above tips given by outdoor kitchen contractors Long Island.

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8 Top Tips For Longer-Lasting Appliances

Posted on June 30, 2022 by Dean

appliance repair

Appliances are an important part of any home. They save you time, energy, and money. Nonetheless, they’re also expensive. You need to take good care of your appliances to get the most out of them.

The average appliance warranty is one year, so you don’t have a lot of time to get something fixed if it breaks. Thankfully, you can use plenty of tips to keep your appliances in top shape. To help you out, here are these tips as given by commercial appliances repair professionals:

Inspect the condition of the appliance before you buy it

When purchasing appliances, check for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or dents in the body. Look for any frayed or exposed wiring or cords that could indicate electrical problems.

Look for moisture inside the refrigerator and freezer compartments — this can be a sign of leaks that could ultimately lead to mold growth inside the appliance if not addressed immediately.

Check cord connections

Check all electrical connections on your appliances regularly for loose or broken wires, and ensure cords are not worn or frayed.

Replace any damaged parts immediately because they could result in fire or electrocution if left unattended.

Buy an energy saver model.

Consider getting an energy saver model when replacing an older refrigerator, dishwasher, or clothes washer.

Energy savers use up to 50 percent less energy than standard models, saving money on utility bills while helping protect the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions from coal-fired power plants that generate electricity for homes across America.

Use them safely

To get the most out of your appliances, use them safely. You should never operate or store appliances in a wet or damp location, as this can cause them to malfunction or even catch fire.

Avoid using extension cords with any appliance that requires a grounded electrical outlet, as it may cause an electric shock or fire hazard if the cord shorts out.

Always read and follow all manufacturer instructions when using any appliance.

Clean properly

Clean your appliances regularly with a soft cloth or sponge dampened with warm water and mild detergent.

Avoid abrasive materials such as steel wool or scouring pads, which can scratch finishes or leave lint behind after use.

Never use harsh chemicals or spray cleaners on appliances as they can damage coatings and other protective materials, increasing the chance of leaks and corrosion over time.

Get to know your model.

The best way to keep your appliances running smoothly is to understand how they work and what can go wrong.

Understanding how your specific model works will help you recognize when repairs are needed, and it also allows you to ensure that you’re using it correctly, so it lasts longer.

For example, suppose you have an older dryer that doesn’t have a sensor that automatically adjusts drying time based on temperature. In that case, there’s no reason why you should have it set to a lower temperature than actually necessary — this will just cause unnecessary wear and tear on your clothes and dryer.

Use less water

The more water you use, the more wear and tear on your appliances. If you’re concerned about saving money on your water bill, but don’t want to skimp on a good shower or bath, try taking shorter showers and using less water when doing dishes or laundry.

Unplug appliances when not in use

Appliances like televisions and computers draw electricity even when turned off because they have standby power, also known as vampire power, that keeps them ready to use at any time.

Unplugging these devices when they’re not needed reduces vampire power usage.

Bottom Line

Appliances are expensive to purchase and maintain. The cost of energy to run them can be even more costly.

The good news is that you can protect your appliances and save money by following the above tips from commercial kitchen appliance repair Alexandria. By following the tips, your appliances will run efficiently and safely for a long time.

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What Is A Resin Patio?

Posted on May 22, 2022 by Dean

patio contractors

A good patio is one that is durable and doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. A resin patio is a new type of decking material made of concrete and plastic. Resin patios are waterproof and durable, making them an ideal choice for areas prone to wet weather or high traffic.

If you are wondering why you should opt for a resin patio, here are some reasons given by patio builders. I hope they will convince you to invest in them.

They are low maintenance.

Resin patios are made from polymers resistant to water, so you don’t have to worry about them fading or cracking in the sun.

They’re also UV protected, so they don’t need extra protection from the sun’s rays. This means that you won’t have to worry about extreme weather conditions that may damage your resin patio.

They are durable

Resin patios are easy to install and come in various colors, shapes, and sizes. This makes them ideal for residential and commercial applications and decks, walkways, and other outdoor spaces.

They are incredibly durable and long lasting, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like your front or back yard path or a driveway entrance.

They can also be used in commercial settings such as restaurants and hotels where there is heavy traffic every day. You won’t have to worry about cracks or chips on the surface for a long time.

Aesthetically pleasing

Resins come in many colors and styles to fit any home’s decorating preferences. You can create your own unique look with different colors and patterns that will stand out from other homes in your neighborhood while still matching your style perfectly.

No repairs necessary

Since resin patios require very little maintenance, there won’t be any need for repairs over time, saving you money in the long run because you won’t need to call a professional contractor every time something goes wrong with your patio surface.

Easy and quick to install

A traditional concrete patio can take several weeks to complete because the concrete needs time to cure before it can be used.

Resin doesn’t need any curing time; it’s ready for use immediately after installation. In fact, some manufacturers claim that it takes just two hours for their resin products to harden enough for walking on them!

They are affordable

Concrete is expensive and requires skilled labor with costly tools to install correctly; it can crack and crumble over time if not appropriately maintained.

Resin is significantly cheaper than concrete when comparing materials costs alone. And since resin doesn’t need curing time or professional installation as concrete does, you’ll save even more money.

Unlike concrete patios that must be laid on a solid base a resin patio requires no such work because it sits directly on the ground without sinking or shifting over time.

Customizable

Resin patios can be customized to create whatever look you desire! You can choose from various colors and textures like wood grain or brick patterns. You can even add lighting fixtures to your resin patio for an extra touch of style!

Easy to clean

A resin patio surface is easy to clean because it doesn’t hold dirt like sand-based or gravel-based materials. 

You will not be spending time cleaning or maintaining your patio every day or week; sweep it once a month and hose it down once a year if necessary.

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for patio ideas that are more than just a slab of concrete, a resin patio might be what you’re looking for. Resin is made from recycled tires and other waste materials, so it’s eco-friendly.

It’s also highly durable and easy to install, making it an excellent choice for DIY enthusiasts.

For the best outcome with the patio, invest in a high-quality one. Also, ensure that it’s installed by experienced gazebo builders Long Island.

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Ways You Are Hurting Your Furnace

Posted on April 28, 2022 by Dean

furnace repair

Did you know you could be hurting your furnace without even knowing? Here are some of the ways you can be harming your furnace as given by furnace repair services:

You go for years without cleaning the unit

Once you install the furnace you don’t need to do any maintenance, right? Wrong.

For the furnace to heat the house, it needs air. With the air cycling through the unit, the entire day, dirt, germs, and other particles clog up the pathways, contaminating indoor air and preventing effective airflow.

If you don’t clean the clogged ways early enough, the heating system has to work against the buildup, which increases the energy the appliance uses to function and leads it to an early death.

To be safe, make it a habit to clean your furnace at least once a year. You can do the cleaning by yourself, but let an experienced professional help you out for the best outcome.

Part of cleaning the furnace includes inspecting the filters and cleaning or replacing them if necessary.

Unlike the rest of the furnace, clean the filters once every three months. Of course, you can clean them more frequently if you suffer from allergies or have pets in the house.

The minor problems don’t worry you.

When you stay for long with your furnace, it will develop problems, some minor, others major. Of course, if your unit is still new and you take good care of it, it will often develop minor issues.

For example, you will notice it making weird sounds or smells.

Since the unit is still running, many people don’t think much about the minor issues, which is wrong as these small problems worsen over time.

To be safe, always take even the slightest problem with utmost seriousness. For example, when you notice your appliance changing its regular sound, get in touch with an experienced professional and have them find out what is wrong.

You care little about the age of the furnace.

Some people have the impression that their furnaces can run forever, but this isn’t the case. Like any other appliance, the furnace has a lifespan—usually 10-15 years.

After this, the unit functions extremely inefficiently, which drives your energy bills extremely high.

An old appliance also keeps breaking down, which makes it expensive to own, as you have to keep hiring repair professionals, that don’t come cheap.

The right way to go about it is to replace your unit as soon as you notice it showing old age signs. For example, your energy bills keep souring, or the appliance keeps breaking down every week.

When getting a replacement appliance, get one that has a high-energy star rating. While it will be expensive to buy, it will be worth it in the long run as it will save you a lot of money in energy, over its existence.

You also should install a unit of the right size for your house. You don’t want one that is either too big or too small. If you aren’t sure about the right one to buy, get the input of a professional.

You don’t tune up the furnace.

Besides cleaning and repairing the furnace whenever it develops problems, you should hire a furnace services Long Island provider to tune up your appliance at least once a year.

Here the professional should go through the entire appliance and fix any issues it might be having. Besides giving you peace of mind that the unit is in top working condition, it also saves you energy as it functions efficiently at all times.

For the best outcome, let an expert do the servicing.

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How Do You Fix A Chimney Deterioration?

Posted on February 28, 2022 by Dean

If you live in a cold area, nothing beats a crackling fire in a cozy fireplace to keep you and your family warm.

While having that fire burning can keep you warm, it can also damage your chimney over time if you don’t take care.

Chimney deterioration can cause health issues and sometimes endanger your life. So, how do you fix a chimney deterioration?

Here are a few tips given by chimney contractors you can use to restore your once functioning chimney.

Clean your chimney

Sometimes, it is not that complicated. A good scrub of your chimney will make it look as good as new.

Usually, chimney deterioration is caused by a build-up of soot. This results from wood smoke or gas combustion mixing with moisture in the flue and condensing on the inner walls of the chimney.

If you have an oil furnace, your chimney is likely exposed to a lot of soot and can result in a dangerous fire. Clean out all the soot from your chimney using a brush and do so at least twice a year to prevent build-up.

Invest in a chimney cap and flue liner

Chimney caps are simple yet effective devices designed to keep out the elements and prevent damage to your chimney walls.

When your chimney is left open, animals, water, and any other elements can enter, leaving debris inside it exposing it to damage.

If you want your chimney to serve you for a long time, consider a chimney cap. An aluminum cap is better because it will not rust easily.

Also, installing a flue liner will make your chimney safer and more efficient because it helps prevent carbon monoxide from entering your home, prevents soot build-up, and keeps your home from potential chimney fires.

Repair all cracks

When it rains, water gets into your chimney and causes deterioration. The first thing to do is find out whether there are any cracks that allow water to sip into your chimney and fix them.

Usually, cracks are in between bricks, and it may not be easy to spot them, given all the soot build-up. Exterior cracks are a bit easier to spot than interior cracks.

If you are unsure how to check for cracks, you need to call a professional. An expert will be able to do a preliminary test and seal all cracks. If the damage is extensive, you may have to replace the cracked bricks with new ones.

Replace loose bricks and mortar

If you live in a cold area, exposure to weather elements, such as wind and rain, can cause your chimney to deteriorate over time.

The joints between the bricks can shift in the foundation and cause loose stones and bricks in the chimney.

You need to remove the affected sections and replace them with new ones to fix this issue.

The issue can, at times, be severe and require you to seek the services of a mason to match the old bricks with new ones correctly.

If you are lucky, you will only replace a few bricks, but in other cases, you may have to rebuild the entire chimney, depending on the extent of the damage.

Bottom Line

Failure to address your chimney issues early enough could expose you and your family to health risks or even a fire outbreak.

To avoid this, ensure you do regular cleaning and check-ups to maintain the state of your chimney and keep the maintenance costs low. You can do the maintenance tasks by yourself but for the best outcome, let the work be handled by an experienced and certified chimney cleaning services Ellicott City. 

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