Heating and cooling systems are very much a must here in the United States. After all, many parts of this country experience extreme heat as well as considerable cold, making having various types of air conditioners and heating systems available a safety issue more than anything else. While types of air conditioners have become more prevalent than ever before here in the United States, the lack of a heating system in a rented building is even considered to be illegal in many parts of this country.
The kitchen is often the heart of the home, making it one of the most important rooms. Because of this, having a stylish, welcoming kitchen is important for a lot of families. So if you’re one of the 76% of homeowners choosing to change the style of their kitchen during renovations, you may be thinking about getting updated countertops. Choosing new countertops can be a difficult decision, so we’ve compiled a few simple tips to help get you started.
Consider your lifestyle. One of the first things you need to think about when choosing updated countertops is how you use your countertops. Do you do a lot of cooking and meal prepping? If so, you’re going to want some durable counters. Do you have kids who tend to make a mess? Then you might want to stay away from the lighter colors. All in all, thinking about how you plan to use your countertops and your overall lifestyle will help ensure you choose the right material for your new countertops.
Think long-term. It’s important to keep in mind that kitchen designs can change over time. And because you probably won’t change your countertops every time you do kitchen renovations, it’s a good idea to think long-term when choosing countertops. Instead of choosing a material and color to match exactly with your current kitchen colors and theme, choose a material that will go with a variety of colors and themes. This way, having a neutral countertop will allow you to redo your kitchen however you please.
Don’t forget the details. It can be easy to only focus on the big picture and choose countertops quickly. But there are a lot of important details to think about too. For example, you should consider the undertones in your kitchen area so the countertop color doesn’t end up clashing with them. Additionally, you should think about countertop fittings and edges, as these elements can completely change the look of the countertops. All in all, don’t forget the small details.
Choosing countertops doesn’t have to be difficult. By considering these few factors and taking your time, you’re sure to find the perfect countertops for your new kitchen in no time.
Each property, whether commercial or residential, should have a fire protection system and protocol in place. This means that property residents should have a fire escape plan, but just as importantly, you need to know how to prevent fires in the first place. Fire protection encompasses a wide range of services, but you as a home or commercial property owner should know how to take your own measures to minimize the risk of fires. With that in mind, here are just a few mistakes to avoid if you want to protect your property from fires and increase personal safety.
Using electronics with frayed cords.
This is one of the most common mistakes people make on a daily basis, and it can impede safety. The fact is, even with modern technology, frayed or otherwise damaged cords can spark and cause a fire if an outlet becomes overloaded. If a cord becomes frayed, dispose of it responsibly and invest in a new one — it could save you thousands in the long run, but more importantly, your safety is priceless.
Not deep cleaning your dryer’s lint trap.
Shockingly, 2,900 home clothes dryer fires are reported each year and cause an estimated five deaths, 100 injuries, and $35 million in property loss. Fires started as a result of dryer lint clogs are much more common than you think. And contrary to popular belief, cleaning the part of your dryer’s lint trap that’s reachable isn’t always enough to minimize the risk of a fire. You’ll need to consult the professionals for dryer vent cleaning services to make sure the lint that’s trapped in hard-to-reach areas is removed safely.
Even avoiding all the mistakes listed above doesn’t keep your property completely safe — that’s where the fire protection experts come in. Property losses are 85% less in residences with fire sprinklers compared to those without sprinklers, and fire protection experts can form a customized sprinkler system plan based on the layout of your home.
Ultimately, you’ll have to work alongside the experts to achieve the optimal level of fire protection your property needs. For more information about residential or commercial plumbing and fire protection, contact us today.