Category - Home Maintenance

Home Maintenance • Shop the Room!

Which Home Design is the Easiest to Clean

by Josie

If you are not sure which interior design style to choose, consider choosing the one that’s easiest to clean!

We all lead hectic lives nowadays. There never seem to be enough hours to do all the chores and have some time to relax and spend with your family.

Well, you’ll be pleased to know that there are certain things you can do if you are looking to redesign or remodel your home that will make cleaning much easier and free up some precious “you time”. There are endless affordable options, now readily available, that can make your home more functional and easier to clean. Read on to find out more!

Easy-to-clean flooring

Carpets have become popular for many homeowners because they come in various colours and textures. They are soft on your feet and can create a warm feeling in any room. 

However, they require regular cleaning to retain their look and feel.

Did you know that about a kilogram of dirt can collect under your carpets in a year? 

Also, the average vacuum cleaner has been known to blow more germs into the air than in a kitchen rubbish bin. It’s also scary to discover that the Norovirus can survive in an uncleaned carpet for as long as a month. All these facts are a little bit worrying if you have carpets in your home.

Some alternatives will also be much easier to clean and be just as attractive:

  • Wooden flooring is one option. This type of flooring will give your home a luxurious feel; all it requires is a regular sweep and mop.
  • Stained concrete finished with a sealer is another choice. Very beautiful patterns and colours can be used in this type of flooring. The final seal of the surface makes it easy to clean with a brush and mop and impervious to most things that could get spilled on the floor.
  • Laminate flooring is another popular option for flooring. It’s easy to install and maintain and resistant to scratches, stains, and wear and tear. However, laminate flooring may not be as durable as the other options. It can be prone to moisture damage and may warp or buckle over time if exposed to excessive water or humidity.
  • Tiled flooring is durable, long-lasting, and easy to clean, making it a practical option for high-traffic areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms. The grout between the tiles can collect dirt and grime over time, so cleaning and sealing it periodically is essential to prevent staining and discolouration.

If you still want carpets in your home, maybe think about just having them in the bedroom, as they are soft on bare feet.

Also, consider carpet tiles or rugs as an alternative. The good thing about carpet tiles is that if something gets spilled, they can be taken up and replaced with clean ones.

Easy-to-clean walls

It’s smart to have easy-to-clean walls, especially if you have children or pets. They bring endless amounts of dirt into your home, and think nothing about rubbing up against the closest walls leaving grimy marks.

There are paints available that are durable and easy to clean. You won’t be tied to a particular colour as they come in various hues.

Look for paints that are specifically labelled “washable” or “scrubbable” to ensure they can withstand regular cleaning without fading or peeling.

Having your walls painted with that type of paint, you can always add a quick wall spot cleaning, for example, to your end of lease cleaning service, and your walls will look just as fresh as they did after painting.

Quartz countertops

Regarding kitchen and bathroom design, quartz countertops are popular for their durability and ease of maintenance.

Unlike natural stone countertops, quartz is non-porous, which means it is resistant to stains, scratches, and water damage.

Additionally, quartz countertops are available in various colours and patterns, making it easy to find the perfect match for your home design style.

Stain-resistant and durable soft furnishing

Leather is a favourite for furniture as it requires a quick wipe and is very durable, especially if you have children.

Darker colours are probably the most suitable as they won’t show any marks as easily as cream or white.

There are also faux leather and vinyl coverings. Vinyl has come on in leaps and bounds since the seventies and no longer looks like plastic. Manufacturers can now make it look like leather.

If you still prefer fabric, stain-resistant designs and water-repellent fabrics are available that are high quality at no extra cost. Several brands offer custom sofa slipcovers that can easily match your decorating style and save you from discarding your old sofa.

There are also specialised fabric protection options like Scotchgard that create an invisible barrier over the fibres. That can be a lifesaver when you live in a rental property. When it comes time for the end-of-lease inspection, the furniture still looks as good as when you moved in.

Built-in storage solutions

Having adequate storage space is key to keeping your home clean and organised. Built-in storage solutions such as shelving units, closets, and cabinets can help you maximise your storage space while minimising clutter.

Additionally, these solutions can be customised to fit your specific needs and preferences, allowing you to create a space that works for you and your family.

Choose items of furniture that have a dual purpose if you can. Perhaps look at window seats that can store blankets, books, and games. Store your most used items where they can be easily reached without needing steps.

Smart home technology

Incorporating smart home technology into your home design can make maintenance and cleaning easier. 

Devices such as automated thermostats, water heaters, lighting systems, robot vacuum cleaners and security systems can be controlled remotely from your smartphone or computer, making it easy to manage your home even when you’re not there.

Some smart home devices can even detect issues before they become significant problems, such as water leaks or HVAC malfunctions, allowing you to address them before they cause serious damage or require costly repairs.

Pet-friendly design

If you have furry babies, incorporating pet-friendly design features into your home can make cleaning easier and more manageable.

For example, choosing durable flooring materials such as ceramic tile or vinyl flooring can withstand scratches and spills. A designated area, such as a mudroom or laundry room with a washing station for your little one, can help keep your home clean and tidy.

Consider adding built-in storage solutions for pet supplies, such as food and toys, to keep them organised and easily accessible. Furthermore, choose pet-friendly furniture, such as leather or microfiber upholstery, that can be easily wiped clean and doesn’t trap animal hair.

We mentioned these design features above, but having furry babies at home makes them even more valuable. Incorporating a pet-friendly design can create a stylish and practical space for you and your four-legged friends.

Vinyl siding

This is an excellent easy-to-maintain choice.

Vinyl siding is durable, weather-resistant, and easy to clean. And, unlike wood siding, it doesn’t require regular painting or staining, making it a low-maintenance choice for homeowners.

Additionally, vinyl siding is available in various colours and styles, making it easy to find the right match for your home’s design style.

Low-maintenance landscaping

You mustn’t neglect the exterior when it comes to maintaining a beautiful home.

Low-maintenance landscaping choices can help to reduce the time and effort needed to maintain the outdoor space.

Some great choices include native plants, succulents, and groundcovers. These greens require minimal watering and pruning and are also resistant to pests and diseases.

Conclusion

Whether you are a landlord looking to improve your properties or a homeowner that wants to free up your time, we hope some of the ideas above will help you. 

By choosing low-maintenance materials and finishes, smart home technology, and built-in storage solutions, you can create a space that is not only beautiful but also functional and stress-free. 

If you still feel overwhelmed by the process, consider getting professional assistance. Don’t spend your leisure time cleaning and tidying. 

Read more
Home Maintenance • Shop the Room!

What is “Rough In” in Plumbing?

by Josie

In the intricate world of plumbing, terminology plays a crucial role in ensuring a task is done correctly and efficiently. One key term is “rough in” an early phase in the plumbing process that lays the groundwork for the final installation of fixtures. This stage is indispensable, setting the tone for the overall plumbing system’s success. Here you know: the rough in stage, its significance, common challenges faced, and the relationship between rough in and building codes.

Deep Dive into the “Rough In” Stage

The term “rough in” refers to the stage of construction during which the basic plumbing framework is laid out. It involves installing the water supply and drain pipes but stops short of connecting fixtures such as sinks, toilets, and tubs. The goal is to prepare for the final stage of plumbing installation when these fixtures will be installed and connected.

Professional plumbers play an integral role during the rough in stage, marking the locations for fixtures and ensuring pipes are correctly installed. Close collaboration with builders and architects is also crucial to align plumbing with the overall building design.

Importance of Rough In Measurements

Precision is critical in the rough in stage. Exact measurements determine the functional and efficient operation of the plumbing system. For example, the height at which a sink’s drain pipe is installed directly influences the sink’s usability and drain efficiency.

Standard measurements are generally used for different fixtures. A toilet, for instance, typically requires a 12-inch rough in measurement from the finished wall. Adhering to these standards, along with manufacturers’ recommendations and building codes, ensures optimal performance.

Errors during the rough in phase can compound down the line and significantly increase project timelines and budgets. If a bathroom sink drain is installed too high, for example, it may necessitate the repositioning of the drain, the removal of the vanity, and additional tile and wall repair. Incorrect measurements can also lead to inefficient plumbing systems, potentially causing water pressure problems, or worse, flooding.

Common Challenges during the Rough In Stage

The rough in stage, despite its importance, is not without potential obstacles. Layout or design problems can arise, and unforeseen obstacles like structural elements or pre-existing wiring can complicate the process. An experienced plumber is adept at troubleshooting these challenges, leveraging years of expertise to find effective solutions.

There are numerous challenges that a plumber may face during the rough in stage. Existing structures may not be plumb or square, requiring the plumber to adjust the planned layout. Additionally, initial plans may have to change if certain fixtures or materials are not available or if they have been updated or recalled since the design phase.

Adaptability is a crucial characteristic for a plumber during the rough in stage. Utilizing the latest technology and tools can greatly assist in overcoming obstacles. For instance, a digital blueprint can be updated in real time to reflect changes made on the ground.

The Connection between Rough In and Building Codes

Building codes exist to ensure the safety and integrity of construction projects, and they play a prominent role in the rough in phase. Plumbers must adhere to these codes, which specify everything from minimum pipe sizes to acceptable materials. Non-compliance can lead to penalties, project delays, and potential structural issues down the line.

Building codes not only dictate the specifications and standards for plumbing systems, but they also serve to protect the safety of the occupants and the community at large. For example, correctly installed plumbing prevents problems like water contamination and improper drainage.

During the rough in phase, adherence to these codes is paramount. Plumbing systems that do not conform to the building codes can lead to penalties, including fines and mandatory modifications. Even more importantly, non-compliance can create unsafe living conditions, highlighting the vital importance of following these codes.

Case Study: A Real-World Rough In Project 

During the multi-story residential building project, the rough in stage took on heightened importance. This project had a high degree of complexity, as the plumbing systems had to cater to multiple units with different floor plans, all while ensuring optimal usage of space and resources.

The plumbers worked hand-in-hand with the builders and architects to make sure the plumbing layout aligned perfectly with the building’s design. During the rough in phase, they ensured that all measurements were precise, leaving no room for errors that could have led to costly and time-consuming revisions later.

The project serves as a testament to the significance of the rough in stage in plumbing. With meticulous implementation of this phase, the project completed successfully without any major hiccups in the plumbing system.

The Role of Inspection in the Rough In Phase

Rough in inspections are conducted to verify that the plumbing work complies with all applicable codes and regulations. During these inspections, aspects such as pipe placement, fixture alignment, and overall system layout are examined. Failing an inspection can lead to required revisions and additional costs. Rough in inspections serve to ensure that the work done up to that point is up to code. During the inspection, each component installed during the rough in phase is checked. This includes the piping for the DWV system, water supply lines, and stub out locations.

Failing a rough in inspection can result in the need for revisions, driving up project costs and extending timelines. In some cases, failed inspections can even halt construction until the necessary corrections are made. Therefore, a thorough and successful rough in inspection is a significant milestone in any construction project.

Conclusion

The rough in stage is a vital part of plumbing that requires precision, expertise, and careful planning. By understanding its role, associated challenges, and the importance of adhering to building codes, we can appreciate the critical groundwork this stage provides for the successful completion of any construction project. The quality of work done during the rough in phase sets the tone for the rest of the plumbing work, underscoring the saying, “Well begun is half done.”

Read more