In summer, sometimes all you can think about is how to stay cool. While you could crank up the AC, there are other, more energy-efficient options.  You’ll be surprised how easy it is to keep your home cool naturally.

Before trying any of these tips, check on the insulation in your home.  If it’s too old, you could be wasting time and money trying to keep your home cool.  A spray foam contractor can quickly assess if your home’s insulation is adequate.

Change Your Sheets

Stay comfortable at night by swapping out your winter bed sheets for a more breathable option.  Cotton is the perfect summer option.  Opt for a thread count between 500 and 800 to maximize soft texture with loose weaving.  Then enjoy as you stay cool all night long.

Create Cooling Pressure

The way you open your windows matters.  Optimize the amount of cool airflow entering your home at night by strategically opening your windows.  Since heat rises, you’ll want to open the top section of windows on the downwind side of your house while opening the bottom section of windows on the upwind side.  No wind to work with?  Create your own by placing a box fan facing out on the top section of windows.

Close the Blinds

Windows can increase the heat in your home by 30%. Block that unwanted temperature increase by keeping your blinds closed during the day.  This is especially important for south- or west-facing windows since they receive the most solar radiation.  Closed blinds on those windows could lower your home temperature by 20 degrees.  If your current blinds aren’t blocking enough sun, switch them out for blackout curtains.

Staying cool at home during the summer months doesn’t have to be challenging.  A few simple changes can keep temperatures down during the hottest months of the year.…

San Francisco is one of the largest and most famous cities in the state of California, as well as the United States as a whole. Located in Northern California, San Francisco is a major commercial and cultural center that draws many people to relocate there. San Francisco is located on a bay on the Pacific Coast, and the Bay Area encompasses several other communities. If you think you may be interested in looking at Marin County CA Homes for sale, check out some of the advantages of living in the Bay Area.

1. Diversity

People from all different backgrounds make the San Francisco area their home. In terms of ethnicity, there is not really a majority population, although non-white Hispanics represent a plurality. Because of the cultural diversity, people in the Bay Area are accepting of different religions, sexual orientations, gender identities, etc.

2. Climate

San Francisco’s location on the Pacific Ocean brings fog and cool winds, but it also means mild weather thanks to the cool ocean currents. People who like a great contrast in the seasons may not find the Bay Area a good fit, but the weather is warm and comfortable all year long, which most residents appreciate.

3. Activities

Living in the Bay Area allows you to visit museums, take in major-league sporting events, or spend the day at the beach just about any time you want. San Francisco also plays host to lively and unique citywide celebrations.

4. Transportation

San Francisco is a very walkable city, but not everyone is up to the many hills and changes in elevation. Fortunately, even if you can’t or don’t want to walk, it is easy to get around in San Francisco thanks to the extensive public transportation system. Even if you don’t live in the city proper, you may not need a car to get to work because many employers offer free shuttle services.…

There are a few reasons why it is important for everyone to rely on routine maintenance on their plumbing systems. The team from Fox Valley Plumbing recommends that everyone get any routine maintenance on their plumbing systems performed on time on a regular basis. While there are many people who try to save money by skipping maintenance jobs, the reality is that this will only cost more money in the end. There are a few reasons why.

Identify Potential Problems Before They Arise

One of the first reasons why people need to get routine maintenance done on their plumbing systems is that this could identify potential problems before they cause expensive repairs. For example, routine maintenance might show that a pipe is starting to weaken or leak before it bursts. Think about how much money a busted pipe would cost. The ability to avoid this repair with the help of routine maintenance should not be passed up.

Lengthen the Lifespan of Key Plumbing Equipment

Nobody wants to have to pay for a new plumbing system before they have to. This is another reason why routine plumbing maintenance is important. The reality is that anyone who gets routine maintenance done on their utility systems is going to get as much out of their systems as possible. Consider how expensive it would be to replace an entire plumbing system. To avoid this, it is critical to get the system maintained on time, every time.

Call Professional Plumbers for Routine Maintenance

Those who are looking to save money on their water bills need to get routine maintenance performed on their plumbing systems. This can prevent repairs from arising while also lengthening the lifespan of the plumbing system. Call professional plumbers today to learn what is covered during a routine plumbing maintenance appointment. This can make a huge difference.…

There are many different careers you can choose from once you graduate from high school. Many people go to college undecided, but you’ll want to know by your sophomore year for sure. What you choose to do will determine your success in life. Here a few things you can study.

Business

If you are interested in numbers, the business field can be a great career for you. You could become an accountant and help companies keep track of their money. It can be a great paying job that many companies are looking for help with. Working in personal finance is another way to help people control their income. Many people have money but don’t know how to handle it properly.

Theology

If you like to help people and are interested in religion, becoming a preacher may be the career for you. You can help families through tough times or help make a difference in some town. Your preaching can offer Bible answers for questions that people may have. You have no clue the impact you could have on people in need. It is a great way to serve God and the people in your community.

Criminal Justice

This can be an exciting career that is sometimes very dangerous. You will deal with criminals and situations that need good judgment. A lot will be required of you. You want to be able to serve your community and keep them safe. You can work in the police force, corrections, or anywhere that needs security with this degree.

Health

In uncertain times, health care professionals are needed. There are many people who are sick all over the world, and many need care for life-threatening illnesses. Others are looking for help with a cough or congestion. You can work in the medical field, but mental health has also become a large field to enter. You can find jobs throughout all different aspects of health that can help people.

It may be tough trying to choose your career of study. These are just a few ideas that can help you narrow down your decision.…

If your house has a fireplace, you probably long for the colder months of the year. Enjoying cozy evenings by the fire can be a memorable experience. However, if your fireplace and chimney do not receive regular inspections, your safety may be at risk. Here are four reasons to get proactive about fireplace safety.

Prevent Chimney Fires

A chimney sweep’s primary job is to clear out debris caused by soot and smoke. Left alone, this build-up increases the likelihood of a chimney fire. The caked-on creosote that accumulates over time is highly flammable. An inspection can help you determine needed chimney repair Virginia Beach VA and make your chimney safer to use for years to come.

Improve Air Quality

Fire smoke contains particles and pollutants that are harmful to your respiratory system. Left unchecked, a chimney coated with residue can release these contaminants into your home. Annual chimney cleanings can reduce the risk of sickness caused by fire pollution and can increase the air quality in your home.

Protect Your Home from Water Damage

When water enters a chimney, it can cause severe structural damage. The liner of the chimney can deteriorate, develop cracks or become rusty. Excess water can stain interior walls and ceilings and contribute to the growth of mold. Regular chimney inspections can put a halt to potential damage and allow necessary repairs to be made.

Keep Pests Out

Small animals often find shelter in chimneys, building nests that cause blockages and fire hazards. Animals can also become stuck in the chimney and plague your home with a horrible stench. A sweep can safely remove pests who have made your chimney their home.

As a preventative measure, a chimney cap can be installed as well. This covers the top opening of the chimney, allowing smoke to get out while stopping animals from getting in.

Taking proactive home maintenance measures can save you time and money. In the case of your fireplace, they can also increase your safety and your peace of mind.…

Whether you’re planning on entertaining guests, or just want a better outdoor living environment for your family, there are great outdoor upgrades that will turn your backyard into the go-to destination for fun in the sun. Here are three of the best ways to upgrade your backyard for the summer!

1. Upgrade Your Landscaping

If you plan on spending lots of time in your backyard this summer, you’ll want to make sure your landscaping is looking its best. Develop a landscaping design strategy for your backyard, including plenty of carefully selected colorful plants, as well as larger trees and shrubs to provide privacy. To take some of the guesswork out of designing an impressive landscaping strategy, consult experts in Landscape Architecture West Palm Beach who will help you create a lush, private oasis in your own backyard.

2. Build a Pool

When it comes to outdoor summer fun, it doesn’t get much better than a refreshing swim in your very own in-ground pool. Install a pool in your backyard to give your family a beautiful, private place to play and get some sun. Include features like a tanning shelf, diving board and whirlpool tub that will give your family a variety of ways to enjoy your new pool.

3. Install a Patio

A quality patio can truly set the stage for plenty of outdoor family fun. If you’re handy, this is a project you can do yourself using brick or concrete pavers. You could also use irregular flagstone, a durable and attractive material that will give the patio a more natural look. Patios can be used for a number of great outdoor activities. Add a fire pit and some durable outdoor seating to create a comfortable outdoor living space that your whole family will enjoy.

Get your home ready for the summer weather by making these exciting home updates. By following these tips, your home will become your family’s favorite spot for outdoor summer fun.…