5 Tips to Help You Increase the Lifespan of Your Roof

Getting a new roof is not only expensive, it is one of the most expensive home repairs. But what could be a more necessary home repair than maintaining a roof over your head? One way of avoiding unnecessary expense is to ensure your roof is in permanently in a good condition. So why not do all you can to ensure your roof lasts longer? A few easy steps are guaranteed to save you money and prolong the lifespan the most important part of your house. Keep reading to find out more.

1) Check for Problems Regularly

A simple one to start - get up on that ladder and check for damage frequently. This is especially important after high winds, storms and heavy rain or hail. Principally look out for cracks around openings, seals and loose tiles. Be sure to check thoroughly, as small problems grow into much larger, and much more expensive problems.

2) Clean Your Gutters

Now is the most important time of year to clean out your gutters. Gutters are pivotally important to the longevity of your roof, so make sure water is taking the correct path, and is not being blocked by moss, fallen leaves and other gutter invaders. Experts advise you clean your gutters twice annually, but why not have a look at them once a month, or combine it with other gardening tasks? Cleaning your gutters can only take a few minutes and is a job that is definitely worth remembering.

3) Breaching Branches

Are there many overhanging branches nearby which could cause problems for your roof? If anything is within touching distance, it's a good idea to trim it back before problems arise. Not only do they drop twigs and leaves, they are a hazard in storms as they could fall directly onto your roof.

4) Check for Algae, Mildew and Moss

Moss is a common enemy for roofers as it traps moisture and, when it gets its claws in, is tricky to remove. Pressure washing is a sure way to banish unwanted growths on your roof, but caution is advised; either wash on the lowest setting or call in a professional.

5) Don't Walk on the Wild Side

Although it may be tempting at times, walking on your roof causes incredible amounts of damage (to both the roof and - potentially - to yourself!) Whether you are checking, cleaning or hanging up the Christmas lights, finding an alternative to walking on the roof is always advised. Binoculars are handy for the essential checks we advise here, as is getting in roof maintenance experts like Dallas roofing companies Texas Star Roofing. When it comes to prolonging the life of your roof, it is much better for your wallet if you are proactive rather than reactive. Although easier said than done in the modern world, finding time for your roof really will pay off. A little roof TLC seems a small price to pay for something that keeps you warm and dry, day and night!

Use Space Effectively With Modular Seating Layouts

Modular seating offers a means of effectively achieving the look that you want from your home or business, without having to have bespoke furniture created and without having to spend countless hours trying to find a piece of furniture with the perfect dimensions. Not only can you choose from each individual piece of furniture, but you can buy multiple individual components in order to create the bench seating, waiting area, or other functional design that fits in the space that you have available to you. Even if you have a room with unusual dimensions, you can still choose from a selection of attractive and high quality furniture.

Modular furniture enables you to add and remove pieces, as needed. If you decide that you want to add an end table to a row of seating, for example, you can take out one of the seating modules from the centre, push the seating into a single row, and then add the table that you want. If, at a later date, you change your mind again, you can move the table and put the seat back in. Alternatively, if you rearrange the room, you can add a corner seat and completely shift the seating around so that it matches your latest design requirements.

Modular furniture is also great for use as occasional furniture, for events or for special occasions. If you use modular seating in your reception area, and you are planning a one-off meeting, you can move some of the seating from the reception into the room where the meeting will be held. You don’t have the usual headaches that are associated with buying, renting, or storing furniture for a one off need.

Usually, buying furniture means making some kind of compromise, because it is very difficult to match furniture dimensions to the available space that you have. With modular furniture, it is possible to create bespoke room design for even the most complicated and unique of areas. You can add seating, tables, and other items exactly where you want them, and you can even use that tiny alcove that usually sits empty and serves no purpose.

Unique spaces have a certain appeal to them. They are filled with character, and they enable you to create a unique design. However, they also pose certain problems or challenges, and finding the furniture and pieces to fit in that space is one such challenge. Bespoke furniture, which offers seats and other pieces in a range of designs, styles, and layouts, enable you to make the most of the most characterful of spaces.

Modular design means that you don’t have to order bespoke furniture, which can prove costly. It also means that you can aren’t limited to just those items of furniture that will fit in the desired space. You can choose from a large selection of furniture pieces, and even some furniture sets to build on, so that you can achieve the exact look and layout that you envisaged.

Modulus Seating provides adaptive furniture that can be adapted to meet your needs, whether they are short-term or long-term needs. Choose from a wide range of good looking and functional furniture designs and enjoy great looking results.

The Benefits Of Timber Sash Windows

It is all too easy to get caught up in the PVC trend when looking to replace old windows, especially if your sash windows have come to the end of their functional life. PVC can appear to be the better choice, because it lays claim to being maintenance free, and can also claim to have a 35-year lifespan in its current guise. However, the reality may be quite different. The fact that you can’t paint the PVC frame may mean that it is maintenance free, but it also means that any discolouration caused by the sun or other atmospheric conditions cannot be repaired.

All it takes to bring a timber frame back to its former glory is a couple of coats of decent quality gloss paint. There’s no need to endure having the whole frame and window replaced, and it should only be necessary to paint the windows every few years, with some light and simple cleaning helping to ensure that the frame continues to look its best in between the paint jobs.

Timber offers a more natural and traditional look than PVC. In some instances, you may be required to replace existing timber frames with new timber frames, especially in conservation areas. Some buildings may even require that you specifically replace with sash windows in order to retain the same overall design and traditional look. However, even if this isn’t the case, do you really want to remove the character that comes from traditional timber frames, and replace this with PVC?

Sash windows themselves are very functional. They typically consist of a number of moving panels, allowing you to let as much air in or out as required. The sliding mechanism means that windows do not need to open out, and modern sash windows typically include safety and energy saving features that mean that they offer modern functionality while still retaining the period features and traditional great looks that only timber frame sash windows can provide.

Another benefit of modern sash windows is that they can be double or even triple glazed. This helps ensure energy efficiency, but it also serves to help reduce noise pollution from outside. Once the windows are closed, you won’t be able to hear traffic noises, and closing the windows in winter means that the cold and wet weather is left outside.

Timber frames also allow some natural ventilation, which is important in any home. PVC frames effectively create a sealed box, and this means that the modern home needs regular airing or ventilation in order to prevent mould and other problems from surfacing.

Sash windows are functional, attractive, and traditional. While they are available with PVC frames, if you want a truly traditional look and want to enjoy the benefits of window frames that could potentially last for 100 years or more, then timber frames may be your best option. You should ensure that you buy good quality frames and windows, and that they have all of the appropriate fixtures and features to help ensure safety and energy efficiency.

The Box Sash Window Co provides double and even triple glazed sash windows with traditional and beautiful timber frames. Whether you are looking to change to sash windows, or upgrade from existing sash windows, they can advise on the best options and help ensure that you get the best windows for your property.

Top Tips For Buying The Perfect Water Tank

Home improvement can take lots of different shapes and sizes. In today’s case, it comes in the shape of a water tank.

Water tanks are all about conserving water. If you have come to the decision that you waste too much of the colorless fluid at home, it is time to take action. Water tanks are the perfect choice because they save water, which saves the planet, and they also save your bank balance. Plus, they are reasonable when it comes to the price.

The next step is to go out and buy one, but what do you need to consider before you make your final purchase?

Water Capacity

How much water are you likely to use in a week, a month or the year? The answer directly affects what size of water tank you need to buy. If you use a lot of water, you will, obviously, need a tank with a bigger capacity. But, if you only use a couple of liters a day, a smaller tank will suffice. Also, how much does it rain where you live? The main benefit of a water tank is that they collect rainwater for home use. Some cities and towns get a lot more rainfall each year than others. If that is you, you are going to need a bigger tank. To find out more about rainfall, take a look at http://www.quickanddirtytips.com.

Size

The size of the tank is always an issue. To be honest, the majority of tanks are pretty big and bulky, so you are going to need a fair bit of space. The backyard is always a good option to store a tank because there is usually some free space, or it is easy to make space. Before you buy it, though, you have to make sure it will fit. Ask for measurements of the water tank and then measure the space to see if they coalesce.

What Type Of Tank?

There is plenty to choose from, but in the end it depends on your needs. Take an underground water tank as an example. If you don’t have space, these are the perfect alternative. All you need to do is install one underground to negate the issue of space. Plus, they have an extra security function because it is harder for animals and the weather to contaminate the supply. To find out more about water tanks, visit http://www.watertankfactory.com.au

Reputation

The seller’s reputation is very important. No one wants to get ripped off because water tanks are pretty expensive even when they are fairly priced. Just like in any line of business, there are vendors who are willing to take advantage. The will advertise a certain product, but it won’t be as advertised when it arrives. It is always best to get a recommendation from someone you trust, as well as proof of their previous track record.

Price

Finally, you want to use the Goldilocks method to find the perfect water tank. A water tank should not be too cheap or too expensive – it should be somewhere in the middle.

Expensive water tanks are too costly, and cheap ones are shady, so somewhere in the middle is perfect.

3 Simple Ways to Set Your Business Apart from Your Competitors

Whether you own a huge company or you're building a small business, the competition for customers can be fierce. In today's global economy, you aren't just competing for business with the store down the street. You also have to compete with online retailers from around the globe.

If you're searching for ways to set your business apart from your competitors, considering implementing these three simple ideas.

Focus on Customer Service

We are living in a busy world that seems to be increasingly impersonal. Customers demand products faster and cheaper, but they still do not want to sacrifice excellent service. Unfortunately, many businesses put customer service on the backburner to save employees' time and money.
That's one of the reasons why you can make your company stand apart from the crowd by providing genuine, attentive customer service. It sounds simple, but treat customers the way you want to be treated. Train your staff to treat customers as individuals, not just numbers.
Customers need to believe that you value them as people and not just as dollar signs. When you strive to provide excellent, personalized service, your customers will notice. This keeps current customers happy, and it also makes them want to recommend your business to their family and friends.

Increase Your Branding

You want to keep your company's name in front of your long-time and new customers as often as possible. However, you don't want to annoy them with your branding. Sending constant texts and emails simply makes customers want to click "Unsubscribe," but you can find creative ways to increase your branding without driving your customers crazy.
For instance, switch from plain packaging tape to custom packaging tape with your brand's name and logo. Each time a customer receives a package, he'll immediately know it is from your company before he even opens it.

Listen

You might be surprised to find out how many businesses don't really listen to their customers. They forge ahead with their business plans and goals without stopping to consider what their customers really want.
Bulk this trend by making it a priority to truly listen to your customers. Send out a survey before you design a new products, and seriously consider the recommendations of your customers.
No one likes complaints, but negative feedback is one of the most valuable tools you can receive. Instead of doing the bare minimum to appease the customer, turn this feedback into improvements for your business.

Your Options For The Perfect Accommodation

Throughout your life you might well end up living in many different types of accommodation. There is so much more choice these days than there has been before. It’s really a case of making sure you choose suitable accommodation for you. Now, you will have plenty of options, so you need to weigh up your circumstances and think about what is right for you.

Of course, you might want to get some idea of the different types of accommodation to choose from. Not everyone is happy settling for simply a flat or house. So, this is a list of some of the amazing options for accommodation you might think about living in at some point.

Apartment

If you’re looking for somewhere to live on your own or with your partner an apartment would be ideal. There are so many different designs and styles of apartment to choose from. You might look for a bright apartment near Palm Springs, or a spacious number in the heart of London. You need to consider what you want to get out of your apartment. It has to be large enough to suit your needs and requirements. But it also has to be in your budget range as well. So make sure you sort all this out before you start hunting.

House

As you get older and think about settling down, you’re probably going to want to think about getting a house. Again, this will depend on your personal situation. If you’re looking to start a family and have kids, then a house is a must. And these days you have to make sure that you choose the right house. Too many people end up settling for a house they don’t really want. You need to be sure you’ve made the right choice. If you can’t find what you’re looking for what not think about designing it from scratch?!

Bungalow

If you don’t fancy a house or an apartment you could always consider a bungalow. These give you the best of both worlds, and they don’t have stairs. As such they are perfect for people who might be somewhat immobile. You could take a look at bungalow house plans and consider building your own customised bungalow. This will give you everything you need in one complete design. Otherwise, you might want to have a look at what’s on the market; there might be something perfect for you.

Boat!

No, you haven’t misread this one! Believe it or not, a lot of people do live on boats these days. And this isn’t quite as bizarre an idea as it might sound. Many boats these days are pretty sizeable, and a lot of them have rather luxurious interiors. If you’re the kind of person who enjoys life at sea, this is perfect for you. You’ll have the capability to travel anywhere, and you’ll still have a home!

So these are just a few of the great accommodation ideas you might consider in your life. Consider what appeals to you most, and the sort of thing you can afford. Then you’ll be able to make the best decision and choose the right place for you.

The Most Expensive Homes for Sale and Rent in NYC

If you're a fan of real estate, you might know that Chairman Wes Edens paid $17 million for a home in the Central Park West area of NYC or that actress Sarah Jessica Parker dropped more than $10 on a home in the city for her family. With hundreds of homes and apartments priced at more than $10 million in the city, it's not surprising that some of the most expensive homes for sale and rent are in New York City.

East 62nd Street

The home located at 12-16 East 62nd Street takes up nearly an entire city block. Rumor has it that a wealthy business owner from Brazil purchased multiple units for sale and tore down the connecting walls to make one large home for his family. Featuring several floors of living space and several rental units, this home seldom goes on the market. The last time the owner listed it with an agent, it had an asking price of $120 million.

Vincent Viola Mansion

Unless you're a fan of professional sports, the name Vincent Viola may mean little to you. Viola and his wife were already quite wealthy when they purchased a National Hockey League franchise, which helped them put even more money in the bank. The couple purchased a large home on the Upper East Side and did massive renovations, including adding a new swimming pool and a large movie theater. When the couple decided to list the home for sale, it went on the market for $114 million.

The Surrey Hotel Presidential Suite

If you have a few million dollars burning a hole in your pocket and aren't committed to owning a home, you can rent The Surrey Hotel Presidential Suite for $450,000 a month. Regarded as one of the most elegant apartments in NYC, the suite boasts more than 10 rooms, including a master bedroom, master bathroom, sitting room and multiple guest rooms. Located on the Upper East Side, the suite has more than 2,000 square feet space and offers impressive views of the city.

Berwind Mansion

While not quite as expensive as the suite at The Surrey Hotel, the apartment at the Berwind Mansion comes with a high price tag too. This apartment consists of more than 20 rooms that provide residents with all the space they need for sleeping, cooking, doing business and even entertaining. Though the apartment occasionally rents for $80,000 a month, demand can raise that price to $150,000 a month. This apartment is even so popular that a former resident once offered the owner more than $80 million to buy it outright.

River House Apartment

The River House is one of the most private and elite clubs in all of New York City, and it operates a co-op out of its building along the East River. Though the club attempted to find and secure a lease to rent the building, it eventually put the entire building on the market with an asking price of $130 million. This club has a total square footage of 62,000 feet, multiple rooms on five floors and gorgeous views of the water. Though celebrities and famous faces own some of the most expensive homes and apartments in NYC, anyone with money to burn will find places to buy or rent in the city.