A resource for those seeking information on organizing and transforming spaces.

Home Ideas Ben Soreff Home Ideas Ben Soreff

Tips to setup a Perfect home office for 2021

There are many advantages of working from home. It might a new concept in the new normal phase globally but millions of people already working from home for years. They either have created a home office in a corner of the house or just sit anywhere with no fixed place to work. It’s time to rethink this matter. If your home is your office, you must have a room or at least a dedicated space for undisturbed working hours.

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There are many advantages of working from home. It might a new concept in the new normal phase globally but millions of people already working from home for years. They either have created a home office in a corner of the house or just sit anywhere with no fixed place to work. It’s time to rethink this matter. If your home is your office, you must have a room or at least a dedicated space for undisturbed working hours. 

Important tips to set up a perfect home office 

Here are a few important tips that you should follow to set up a perfect home office

  • The location should be the primary concern 

An empty room, no matter where it is, could be an ideal place for a home office. The only thing you need to see that you can work there undisturbed. For many people, having an empty room is a lavish thought. No worries, if this seems absurd, find a corner or a space that no one in the home is going to occupy or raise an objection. Once you fix it, announce that you are using the space for your office purpose. 

  • Select right desk and chair for the office 

As space is fixed, you now need a table and chair. There is no dearth of designs in this domain. Buy a set that suits your office, your work, and your space. A multipurpose table having sufficient storage place for documents and stationery along with space for arranging the computer can be a good idea. If you don’t work with documents but the computer is too important for the job, you can think of a state-of-the-art computer desk as a monitor standing desk. You might need an ergonomically designed monitor arm and a chair. Keep in mind, compromising your health means poor performance in the later period. 

  • Shelve and storage space 

Don’t overlook or take this matter lightly while designing your home office. As your business grows, office articles especially files, stationeries, CDs, and various other electronic accessories may rise in number. If your work is related to clients whom you need to meet physically, shelves and storage space will be a primary necessity. Moreover, the shelves and storage should be arranged in a nearby space that you could access easily. 

  • Natural light and air 

Sufficient lighting is imperative for any home office. Having a place with sufficient natural light and air will be perfect for a home office. In this way, you could reduce the electricity bill as well. Position your desk facing the window so that you get sufficient light and a good natural view. A translucent window and blinds could be installed to enhancing the overall appearance of the office. Apart from natural lighting, use sufficient ceiling lights and if needed a desk light for extra lighting in the evening. 

If the window is not available or natural light is not accessible, no problem. Pinup some nice artworks and calendars on the vacant walls. Use soothing color on the walls. If you like quotations, pin up a motivational quite in front of the table. 

  • Take special care for wiring and cables 

Computer cables take lots of space so also electrical wiring. If this is left open, your office will look cluttered. You will also face space problems especially with the cables under your table. So organize wiring and cable with the help of technicians. Better if these are not visible from outside. These days several wireless accessories are available like wireless keyboards and mouse. Take this matter seriously. 

The home office arrangement you use must be comfortable to sit for hours and work efficiently. Having your own space for an office should be your primary target in 2021. 

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Home Maintenance Ben Soreff Home Maintenance Ben Soreff

The importance of maintaining the cleanliness of high-rise facades

It is commonplace for building managers to overlook the importance of cleaning façades of high-rise buildings. Oftentimes, the maintenance and cleanliness of a building’s interior is given precedence over its exterior. This can be for a multitude of reasons, from budget constraints to oversight of its importance. However, it’s important for building managers to gain a basic knowledge of facades and understand the benefits of maintaining their cleanliness.

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It is commonplace for building managers to overlook the importance of cleaning façades of high-rise buildings. Oftentimes, the maintenance and cleanliness of a building’s interior is given precedence over its exterior. This can be for a multitude of reasons, from budget constraints to oversight of its importance. However, it’s important for building managers to gain a basic knowledge of facades and understand the benefits of maintaining their cleanliness.

‘Façade’ when translated from French means ‘front’. Generally, the façade will refer to a particular side of a building, most commonly its front. It’s important to understand that when it comes to high-rise buildings, each of the building’s four sides are considered to be facades. Whereas for most residential buildings, only the front of the building is visible to the public, high-rises are visible from all sides.

Types of facades

The materials used for high-rise facades can be separated into two key categories: glazing, which is any part of a wall that consists of glass, and cladding, in which one part of a building is covered with a separate material.

Within these two categories, there is a range of features that will be unique to the way each building has been planned and constructed. With this in mind, it’s important to seek the services of professionals who specialize in high-rise façade cleaning. In doing this, it guarantees the maintenance of these materials and helps avoid any damage or defects.

The importance of a clean facade

The appearance of a building’s exterior is just as important as the appearance of its interior. If a building’s windows are unclean, it will affect the amount of light coming into its interior. Dirty windows will also make the exterior of a building look neglected and lackluster. It’s also important to consider that maintenance of a building’s overall condition and cleanliness impacts the wellbeing of anyone who spends time in the building, whether it’s their workplace or their home.

Maintaining clean windows is an essential component of a high-rise building’s upkeep. As time goes on, glass facades are becoming more and more frequently implemented in high-rise architecture. With the design of high-rise buildings becoming more intricate and refined, the process of cleaning and maintaining their facades must be carefully considered. However, despite its clear benefits, the proper upkeep of high-rise building facades is often disregarded. Maintaining clean high-rise facades reduces deterioration of the building over time and allows regular inspection of any potential defects that may have developed in its structure. By identifying small defects and addressing them, it avoids the development of larger structural problems and the expenses associated with them.

It’s also obvious that a clean, aesthetically attractive façade is beneficial for the building. A façade that is visually appealing affects the judgment of potential tenants and the neighborhood’s appearance to potential investors. Put simply, a clean façade improves a building’s value.

Procedures for cleaning high-rise facades

Water-based cleaning methods are popular for high-rise facades, particularly because they are non-invasive. Pressure washing, one component of water-based cleaning, involves spraying the surface of the façade with water at a low to medium pressure then potentially brushing difficult areas of the building. Soaking, another water-based method, is done to remove persistent dirt and coatings. Soaking is often performed on parts of the building that require more careful treatment or aren’t exposed to rain. Steam cleaning utilizes hot water and high-pressure to eliminate the presence of mud or plant life. 

Chemical cleaning methods are also utilized, more so for specific surfaces. For example, acid-based cleaners are suitable for terracotta and granite, whereas alkaline cleaners are suitable for limestone and marble.

Maintaining a clean façade on high-rise buildings improves their overall appearance, prevents their deterioration, and ensures that they continue to operate effectively. Professionals who specialize in high-rise façade cleaning will be able to assess the most suitable methods for cleaning a high-rise building and complete the necessary procedures without disrupting the businesses or tenants within the building.

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Home Maintenance Ben Soreff Home Maintenance Ben Soreff

Glass Repair Services: What are the Different Types?

In essence, glass is an inorganic solid material that's usually translucent or transparent. It is also brittle, hard, and impervious to the natural elements. Glass has been made into decorative and practical pieces since the ancient times.

We partnered with a window company for this post. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.

In essence, glass is an inorganic solid material that's usually translucent or transparent. It is also brittle, hard, and impervious to the natural elements. Glass has been made into decorative and practical pieces since the ancient times. 

However, glass can also be very fragile. Dropped even just a foot high, it can turn into hazardous glass shards. That said, when not handled accordingly, glass can be dangerous. 

Glass damage can come in various forms—from broken tabletops to smashed residential glass windows. To take care of any glass-related damage, it is essential to have a good understanding of the different kinds of glass repair services available.

Different Types of Glass Repair Services

Below are some of the different types of glass repair services you can look into:

Auto Glass Repair and Replacement

If you have been driving for quite some time, it is likely that you are familiar with the dreaded feeling of having a rock slam into your windshield. Unfortunately, in some instances, it can leave cracks you can’t afford to ignore.

Left unattended, the cracks will not only affect your windshield but, eventually, your vehicle in general. To ensure you don't compromise your safety and your vehicle's efficiency, it is recommended that you have a professional fix the damage.

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Typically, a qualified technician will first clean the damaged area and determine if the windshield will be fixed or replaced. If the crack can be repaired, a resin that bonds with the glass will be used.

If the technician thinks replacement is the best option, the entire windshield will be replaced with a better and more robust version. 

Commercial Glass Repair and Installation

If you own a business, you are likely familiar with commercial glass installation. Amazingly, there are so many options when it comes to commercial glass installation and repair. Some of the options available include blast and bullet-resistant glass and glass that are designed to stand against hurricanes.

If you have a business, looking after your building's safety and your employees is a given. This is especially important in places where the weather can be extremely harsh as glass has a higher chance of breaking. That said, it is vital to find an installer who can do an excellent job of installing or repairing commercial glass.

Residential Window and Glass Repair

At home, glass can be everywhere—on your tables, windows, and doors. Unfortunately, glass damage can happen when you least expect it. For instance, over time, windows can get old and foggy, and the quality can depreciate. 

At home, glass can be everywhere—on your tables, windows, and doors. Unfortunately, glass damage can happen when you least expect it. For instance, over time, windows can get old and foggy, and the quality can depreciate. In such cases, if you are based in Virginia, you can contact this reputable Williamsburg window replacement service. You always have the option to have it fixed or replaced. In addition, glass tabletops and mirrors should be replaced when needed.

In line with this, you always have the option to have it fixed or replaced. In addition, glass tabletops and mirrors should be replaced when needed.

Choosing the Right Glass for Your Home

When choosing the right glass for your needs, it is crucial that you know the impact of your choice. Get your search off to a great start by asking yourself the following questions:

What type of light would you like to provide?

You can use your doors and windows to control the amount of natural light that passes through your doors and windows, depending on the opening's size and orientation. For instance, if your bedroom is facing the east, your windows can capture the morning sun and can help you stay cool in the evenings.

Do you want to contain the noise in any of the rooms?

If you live near the main road and you would like to limit the noise that enters your home, using acoustic glass would be a good option. Acoustic glass can also significantly minimize noise levels without compromising your view.

Is security important for you?

If security is a top priority, investing in security glass is something you should consider. Security glass can provide additional resistance against breakages. Security glass is also a great option if you are looking for safety and comfort without affecting the view or limiting natural light.

Do you want to protect your furnishings from fading?

Furniture fabrics and curtains can fade when exposed to UV radiation over time. If you intend to have your sofa lounge or dining suite near a large opening, consider investing in a glass type that provides UV protection.

Conclusion

Now that you know the glass options available and the glass repair services available at your disposal, choosing the kind of glass and the repair service that will best suit your needs should come easy.

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Home Ideas Ben Soreff Home Ideas Ben Soreff

Guest Post - Ways To Reduce Your Home Remodeling Costs

The urge for home improvement is in the DNA of all homeowners, but the money it requires often forces them to put things off until they raise the funds they need.

The urge for home improvement is in the DNA of all homeowners, but the money it requires often forces them to put things off until they raise the funds they need.

Any home remodeling project you embark on will always cost you. How high that cost is going to be will depend on your choices, though.

Home remodeling costs may tend to be high, but you can actually keep them down if you want to. Here are some things that will help you do just that.

Shop Around For Bargains Early

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Stores hold sales all the time. Sometimes, the discounts they offer are a little too small to make an impact, but they do strike a substantial percentage off their prices from time to time.

If you stumble upon construction materials on sale at huge markdowns, grab the chance even if your home remodeling project is still some time away.

Switch To Cheaper Materials

Let’s say you’ve been dreaming about replacing the asphalt shingles on your roof with slate.

While slate is an excellent choice on so many levels, it also happens to be one of the most expensive roofing materials on the planet.

If you have the budget for it, then go for a slate roof, by all means.

If you’re short on funds, you might want to ask any reputable roofing contractor you know about the benefits of cheaper alternatives like metal and plastic polymer.

All construction materials have more affordable versions that are just as decent as the more expensive ones. If your budget can’t cut it, consider going cheaper so you can proceed with your home remodeling project without delay.

Do Some of The Work Yourself

The cost of construction materials seems to get higher by the day. The same goes for labor.

If you can do some of the work required for your home remodeling project, you should be able to save hundreds of dollars in labor costs.

When shopping for construction materials, you can haul them yourself if you have a truck, so you won’t have to pay other people to deliver them to your home.

If your home remodeling project requires some demolishing, pick up a sledgehammer yourself and knock those walls down instead of hiring others for the job. Just make sure you’re not taking down a load-bearing wall or hitting electrical and plumbing lines because that would be a much bigger problem altogether.

You can also benefit from personally taking on any prep work needed. Let’s say you’re getting the floor done, and it requires the removal of your old carpeting. Instead of leaving the task to contractors who will promptly charge you for it, remove and discard the carpeting yourself.

Choose Contractors Well

You are going to need the services of a reputable and budget-friendly contractor to help you with your renovation project.

Get quotes from at least three contractors to see which one will give you a fair price for quality work. Better yet, meet them in person so you can conduct interviews and get a sense of whether you’d be comfortable working with them or not.

Also, make sure that the contractor you’re eyeing is properly licensed and has the right contractors insurance coverage.

For a list of ways to cut home remodeling costs, it may seem counterintuitive to recommend hiring insured contractors who tend to charge more for their services than uninsured ones.

However, hiring contractors who don’t have proper contractors insurance coverage could cost you more in the long run.

For example, if a contractor that doesn’t have worker’s compensation insurance suffers an injury while working on your project, you could be held financially responsible for that. You could end up paying for that worker’s medical bills and lost wages.

And if your contractor doesn’t have general liability insurance, you will have no choice but to foot the bill of any property damage he or she might cause while on the job.

If you want to save money on your home remodeling project, never hire uninsured contractors to do it.

These are just some of the things you can do to keep home remodeling costs down. Home remodeling may be inherently expensive, but it doesn’t have to be, not when you follow the tips listed above.

About the Author

Rachel Porter is the content specialist for Custom Contractors Insurance, LLC, an Arizona roofing and contractors insurance company. When not writing, she enjoys reading and mountain biking with her friends.

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