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

Home Ideas Ben Soreff Home Ideas Ben Soreff

Guest Post - The Benefits of Having a Multifunction Printer in Your Home Office

Working from home often leaves you without access to vital equipment such as scanners and printers. These devices can be installed in a home office, but they take up an enormous amount of space. A much more practical solution is to equip your workspace with a versatile multifunction printer. But what are the benefits of a multifunction printer?

Working from home often leaves you without access to vital equipment such as scanners and printers. These devices can be installed in a home office, but they take up an enormous amount of space. A much more practical solution is to equip your workspace with a versatile multifunction printer. But what are the benefits of a multifunction printer?

1. Organized Multi-Tasking

We love the way a multifunction printer (MFP) combines everything you need in one easy appliance. It prints correspondence and photocopies documents. You usually have the choice of setting these functions in black and white or color. You can even use it as a scanner to upload paperwork or photographs into your PC. An MFP also includes email facilities and a fax machine for transferring documents. Whatever your work requires, a versatile MFP can provide the solution.

2. Perfect for Small Home Offices

Most of the home offices we've organized for clients are small. They often must be incorporated into the corner of a living room or bedroom. Space is at a premium. It's vital to avoid clutter to keep your space more liveable and comfortable to use. An MFP usually has a width of around 15-19 inches (40-50 centimetres). It's similar to the size of a single-function printer, yet you get multiple functions all in one tiny space. It's ideal for any home office.

3. Versatile and Convenient

Maximizing your productivity is important when you work from home. Choosing a versatile MFP can certainly help you be more organized. It usually has a simplified operation with easy to understand instructions. Many have sleek, touch screen control panels. You can even switch between functions by simply pressing a button. An MFP saves you from having to familiarize yourself with several machines and multiple modes of use. A small home office can't usually accommodate separate machines, requiring some to be placed in another room. An MFP is so convenient as it saves you from having to leave your desk.

4. An MFP is less Expensive

An MFP is the perfect piece of equipment when you're setting up a home office on a budget. Purchasing individual items such as a scanner, printer and photocopier can work out expensive. An MFP provides you with multiple functions in one purchase. The cost of an MFP can sometimes be similar to the price of just one individual device such as a fax machine. You might not even need every function regularly. Therefore, an MFP saves you from wasting valuable funds on little-used pieces of office equipment.

5. Reduces Your Carbon Footprint

It's important to run your home office as ecologically as possible. An MFP helps prevent excess carbon emissions from escaping into the atmosphere. You only must run a single device instead of many. Most MFPs are built to a streamlined design that is economical with energy usage. A common feature is inkjet printing technology. It uses less energy than laser printing, which must rely on pre-heating an infuser to operate. The money you save on electricity is a long-term advantage.

6. Smart Technology

Many of today's MFPs are sophisticated home office appliances that are compatible with Smart technology. You can easily find MFPs with wireless and Bluetooth connectivity. It means you can usually integrate an MFP into a smart home automation system. It allows you to operate an MFP through your mobile even when you're not at home. You can be more organized by sending remote instructions for different functions. For example, documentation can be already prepared by the time you arrive back at your home office.

7. Economical Servicing and Repairs

Keeping your home office equipment in good condition can be costly if you have multiple devices. However, an MFP is usually economical to maintain. You only must pay one service charge to keep your MFP operating correctly. Repairs are also less expensive if you call for professional help. Inkjet MFPs are usually made to high standards with a streamlined design. They don't usually include complex components such as transfer belts or imaging units. Any MFP repairs are nearly always quick and easy to fix, allowing you to recover a good work productivity level.

8. Speed and Efficiency

But how does the performance of an MFP compare to separate devices? Many MFPs use the simplicity of advanced technology. It makes them smooth-running and very competitive when compared to individual machines. Typical printing speeds can be around three seconds for one page. For batches of multiple copies, you can expect up to 50 pages in one minute. More expensive models achieve commercial office rates with up to 100 pages in a minute. Scanning and photocopying results are usually just as impressive. An MFP can make your home office maintain fast and efficient standards.

Conclusion

Equipping your small home office with a multifunction printer has many benefits. You can make a small space comfortable to use. It's an economical investment that reduces your carbon footprint and saves on maintenance and repair charges. A multifunctional printer is convenient and versatile. You can even integrate some models into smart home automation. Your home office can be highly organized and efficient when you choose a multifunctional printer.

Author Bio:

Greg Tuohy is the Managing Director of Docutec, a business printer and office automation software provider. Greg was appointed Managing Director in June 2011 and is the driving force behind the team at the Cantec Group. Immediately after completing a Science degree at UCC in 1995, Greg joined the family copier/printer business. Docutec also make printers for family homes too such as multifunction printers.

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Home Ideas Ben Soreff Home Ideas Ben Soreff

Guest Post - How to Set Up a Home Office You Love

Technology has been helping more people work remotely from home for years. The US Census Department recorded 7% of adults worked from home in 2019. This figure showed a 5.2% increase compared to data from two years earlier. Since the beginning of the pandemic, more people than ever are turning to remote work. But for the best results, you need a comfortable office space that you'll love using. But what can I do to set up a home office I’ll love?

Technology has been helping more people work remotely from home for years. The US Census Department recorded 7% of adults worked from home in 2019. This figure showed a 5.2% increase compared to data from two years earlier. Since the beginning of the pandemic, more people than ever are turning to remote work. But for the best results, you need a comfortable office space that you'll love using. But what can I do to set up a home office I’ll love?

Finding the Perfect Work Space

Organizing a home office is much easier if you have a small room you hardly ever use. You can install a larger desk and plenty of storage units. You might even keep your home office all to yourself. However, many family homes just don't have the available space. Many remote workers must be inventive and versatile to incorporate a small home office in communal rooms. Some closets offer remarkably large areas where you can at least fit a desk and tiered shelving or equipment such as a multifunctional printer. A small, comfortable space can often be found beneath stairs or in a corner of your living room.

Maintaining Privacy

In a shared environment, it's difficult to maintain a degree of privacy. A simple solution is to invest in a portable, folding screen. You can even make one to custom fit around your desk. Construct an open frame with at least three folding sections for stability, then cover it with fabric or even paper. An alternative is to fix a rail to the ceiling and hang drapes from it. Sometimes you can find a suitable room divider with shelves and compartments that can store some of your folders and files.

Adaptable Office Furniture

Now you've set up your workspace, you'll need some office furniture. If you're building your office on a budget, there are ways you can improvise. A kitchen table works fine as a desk. Open shelves on the wall above your desk can be customized to make the best use of the space. When you design your own home office, you can place furniture where you can reach everything easily. You can use any type of cupboard for equipment such as headphones, printing inks and stationery. If you have sensitive files, fit a small lock to a drawer to keep them safe.

Ergonomically Designed Chair

One item of office furniture you should choose wisely is a chair. Research shows that home working increases your monthly output by 1.4 days. It means you could be spending even more than eight hours every day sitting at your desk. Unfortunately, being sedentary with poor posture can contribute to the musculoskeletal problems suffered by half the adult population.

You can try to avoid future discomfort by taking time for regular breaks. But the most effective solution is to invest in an ergonomically designed chair. You can save money by purchasing an unwanted one from a city office refurbishment. Features to look for include lumbar support, adjustable height, and a backrest and side arms that can be adjusted to suit you.

Avoiding Eyestrain

Eyestrain known as Computer Vision Syndrome includes blurred vision, headaches and uncomfortable, dry eyes. Around 58% of adults in the US suffer from these symptoms when working at their computer screens throughout the day. The 20-20-20 rule helps keep your eyes feeling comfortable. It suggests you should stop work every twenty minutes and focus for twenty seconds on an object twenty feet away. When designing your home office, fix a favorite picture or plant at exactly that distance from your desk to help you remember.

Sympathetic Lighting

Natural light is always beneficial during the day. If possible, choose a part of the room where you have window space. If it faces south, you could have problems throughout the day from the sun getting in your eyes. A daylight window blind can make your space more enjoyable by cutting out the glare of the sun while allowing through adequate natural daylight. On cloudy days or at night, sympathetic lighting could include eco-friendly LED bulbs. Choose LED lighting with a temperature rating between 2,700K and 4,500K. White lighting containing a quantity of blue is supposed to improve your concentration.

Relaxing Decor

Now you've assembled all the components of your new home office, you need to make it a space you can truly love. A relaxing atmosphere is essential. You can even employ Feng Shui philosophy to make sure your shelves and desk are in tune with the other items of furniture in the room. Declutter if necessary to make the area around your home office feel more spacious and calming. If you're improvising with furniture, a quick coat of paint can give your office a stylish, coordinated look. Pastel colors such as gray, pale blue, beige, cream or light green work best. Consider reupholstering your office chair in toning fabric.

Conclusion

Your brand-new home office doesn't have to cost a fortune. Improvisation is fine but making your office comfortable is how you'll grow to love it. If a separate room is unavailable, choose a secluded spot within a larger communal area. Coordinated decor should make it welcoming and stylish. Find an ergonomic chair and pay attention to lighting to keep your eyes comfortable.

Author Bio:

Paula O’Gorman is Promotive’s Design & Marketing Manager and is responsible for planning, leading and coordinating the activity of the marketing agency that specializes in logo design and graphic design. She graduated with a distinction in Design & Communication from Waterford Institute of Technology in 2003 and joined the Cantec Group immediately afterwards. Starting as a junior graphic designer, she now manages her team at the senior management level.

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Different Types of Garage Doors

If you are like most homeowners, you are likely wondering what the different types of garage doors are and what option suits your home best. Whether you need a garage door for your home or business, below are the options available at your disposal. Keep in mind that different garage doors have different styles and offer various functionalities.

According to the National Association of Realtors, the national median cost of replacing a garage door is $2,300. What's impressive is if you sell your house, you will recover a whopping 87% of your investment. Undoubtedly, this is one of the highest percentages of recovered costs according to the report.

Also, since a front-facing garage door can eat up almost 20% of the home's front facade, a beat-up and obsolete garage door can be a liability. No wonder many homeowners consider garage door repair as a smart investment. Apart from adding visual appeal, it is crucial that the garage door should work seamlessly.

If you are like most homeowners, you are likely wondering what the different types of garage doors are and what option suits your home best. Whether you need a garage door for your home or business, below are the options available at your disposal. Keep in mind that different garage doors have different styles and offer various functionalities.

Residential Garage Doors

When selecting a residential garage door, there are certain factors you need to consider, such as door configuration and material. You also need to figure out the type of opener you want. A belt or chain drive are two of the most common options. You need to also determine if you want to opt for a single panel or a sectional door, among others.

Traditional Raised-Panel Door

Also referred to as "classic," this garage style is known for its symmetrical rectangular panel. Traditional raised-panel garage doors are well-liked because they open upward rather than swing out. This is considered a safety feature for those who want to create a family-safe home.

Thanks to their classic look, traditional raised panel doors are considered timeless and can be great accents to any home. When investing in a traditional raised panel door, you also need to decide if you want it with raised or recessed panels. A raised panel will add depth, while a recessed panel can help you achieve a more traditional look.

Carriage House Door

Depending on your design goals, you have the option to purchase a single or double bay garage door. However, it is important to remember that carriage doors can be opened either by going up or swinging out. 

If you choose one that swings out, you will need more room. Otherwise, you might hit someone while opening. Aside from being unique, carriage house garage doors are also ideal if you want to achieve a rustic and homey feel. 

Contemporary Door

If you have a modern home, a contemporary garage door would be a great addition. Most contemporary garage doors are a mixture of glass and metal elements. This combination can help ensure your house stands out, boosting curb appeal in the process. 

Typically, this type of garage door opens and closes by moving up and down, just like traditional raised panel doors. However, it can also be installed as a single panel door, so it opens to the side. 

Commercial Garage Doors

Similar to residential garage doors, commercial garage doors can come in various materials and styles. However, since commercial garage doors serve another purpose, keeping in mind the intent of the garage door is crucial to the selection process. 

For instance, if you have a warehouse, you most likely prefer a door that allows airflow and light. In a similar scenario, picking a door with a window is recommended. 

Overhead Door

This is one of the most popular commercial garage doors available. Overhead doors can be automatic or manual. The term overhead door derives from the way the door opens—moving along a track and lifting towards the ceiling. 

Overhead doors come in various materials and styles. It also comes with slats that create sections. Overhead doors can also come with windows, although this is not always considered necessary.

Fire-Rated Door

Fire-rated garage doors work in the same manner as overhead doors. They can also come with a motor or can be opened manually. What differentiates the fire-rated garage door from overhead is it has a fire-resistant material. This makes fire-rated doors safer.

Fire-rated doors are typically used in distribution centers, warehouses, and other locations with a significant number of people/employees present.

Roll-Up Door

Unlike fire-rated and overhead garage doors, roll-up doors are thinner but more flexible. Often they are considered ideal for places with wide openings. This is also a great option if you are looking for a garage door that can endure the harsh elements.

Scissor Gates

Also known as security gates, this option is typically made out of steel. However, unlike other commercial garage door options, it opens by sliding left to right. It also locks once it is closed. Scissor gates also have a second garage door behind them. 

Scissor doors also come in different styles—from solid metal to something with a gate-like appearance. Retail stores commonly use the latter.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right garage door is no walk in the park. However, the guide above should get your search efforts off to a superb start.

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Home Organization Ben Soreff Home Organization Ben Soreff

How to Recover From a Hoarding Situation

Although one of America's greatest strengths is its easy access to just about any material item you could want, this can also lead to some people's greatest problem: hoarding. If you or someone you know is recovering from a hoarding situation, it can be a long and difficult process to go through. Fortunately, if you stick with it, there is light at the end of the tunnel. To help you make your way through the mounds of stuff, here are a few steps to follow.

Although one of America's greatest strengths is its easy access to just about any material item you could want, this can also lead to some people's greatest problem: hoarding. If you or someone you know is recovering from a hoarding situation, it can be a long and difficult process to go through. Fortunately, if you stick with it, there is light at the end of the tunnel. To help you make your way through the mounds of stuff, here are a few steps to follow.

Address Mental Health

The goal when recovering from a hoarding situation is to make sure you or your loved one don't return to that situation. Therefore, it's often beneficial to seek professional counseling to help you identify the trigger behind the hoarding so that you can address this root issue. Otherwise, you'll simply be attacking the symptoms and likely end up right back where you started at some point.

Take It One Step at a Time

A house full of trash and treasure can be an overwhelming task to tackle. That's why it's a good idea to focus on the small stuff. If you can achieve a small victory by cleaning out a drawer in the kitchen, for example, that victory will inspire you to move on to other areas of the home. By taking on one small task at a time, you'll eventually be able to tackle the entire house.

Dispose of Unneeded Items

As you go through various items, it's important to have places to put them once they've been sorted. For example, you may want to rent a dumpster so that you can have a quick and easy place to dispose of garbage and unwanted items. You can even find a junk vehicle buyer for cash if there are junk cars on the property so that you don't have to go through a time-consuming process to dispose of these large and unruly items.

Craft a Plan for Future Success

After you've completed your cleaning journey, it's important to craft a plan for future success. You want to be sure that you know what to do with new items as they come into your home so that they don't start accumulating again. You'll also want to make a plan that will help prevent you from bringing certain items into your home altogether. This will help you stay on top of the cleanliness of your home with minimal effort.

Always Ask for Help

During every step of the process, it's always a good idea to ask for help. Although it can be embarrassing to invite someone into a cluttered home, the fact is that most people are more than willing to help if you're willing to ask. Don't let pride get in the way of you finally tackling a hoarding problem once and for all.

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