5 common window replacement mistakes to avoid

5 common window replacement mistakes to avoid

The windows of a house can get damaged over time due to factors like extreme weather conditions, rot, wear and tear, or even accidents. It is important to replace windows as soon as one notices signs of major damage to restore the safety and convenience windows provide. Further, while replacing windows, one can opt for better frames and panes to enhance the look and functionality of windows. But, one should avoid the following mistakes:

1. Getting measurements wrong
When planning to replace a window, one of the most important things to do is take accurate measurements of the available space. If the measurements are incorrect, one may end up with parts that do not fit. Further, measuring the shortlisted window frames can help one select options that fit with available space at home. Also, measurements should not be limited to the height and width but should also include the desired thickness to ensure the chosen frame fits easily into the allotted space.

2. Choosing the wrong material
The window material has a major impact on the energy bills. If one chooses a glass or frame that offers poor insulation, the temperature regulation inside the home will be affected, leading to higher electricity consumption. So, it is important to choose energy-efficient materials. For instance, for the panes, triple-glazed glass is a good option as it does not allow heat or cold air to pass through easily. In terms of the frame, vinyl offers great insulation, and so does fiberglass. Both materials are resistant to rot and extreme weather elements.

3. Not seeking professional help
A DIY approach to home renovation tasks, like window replacement, can seem to be cost-effective and fun. However, mistakes in the installation can prove to be a costly affair, as fixing improper installation or the consequent damage can lead to additional expenses. Not to mention, such mistakes can increase the risk of accidents and injuries. So, it is best to spend a few extra bucks and hire a professional to install the windows. It is important to consult a professional with adequate experience and expertise in installing windows. This can require some research but will ensure one has a smooth experience.

4. Ignoring the manufacturer’s guidelines
When installing new windows, one must make sure they follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, even if they hire an experienced professional to do the job. If the installation guidelines are not followed, the manufacturer’s warranty will be considered void if the windows incur any kind of damage. In this case, the buyer will have to bear the cost of fixing or replacing damaged windows. Additionally, installation guidelines can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. So, one should consider carefully reviewing the instructions before starting with installation even if they have installed windows in the past.

5. Overlooking home aesthetics
The windows contribute significantly to a home’s exterior and interior aesthetics. So, when choosing new windows, it is important to take the desired appearance and style into consideration. One must consider choosing designs that match the rest of the home. Otherwise, the windows will seem out of place and negatively affect the curb appeal of the home.

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5 common vacuuming mistakes to avoid

Most individuals rely on their vacuum cleaners to help clean floors, carpet, tiles, sofas, upholstery, and sometimes hardwood floors. Though the vacuum is a versatile and sturdy tool, you may be unknowingly doing things that could damage its parts or body in the long run. After all, they are not indestructible and surely not always cheap. In order to keep them in good working condition, you should avoid making the following mistakes with your vacuum cleaner. Vacuuming things you shouldn't Dry foods like salt or sugar spills can be cleaned with a vacuum. But bits of wet food left on the floor, like pieces of tomato or baked beans, should not be vacuumed. They contain moisture that can clog the pipes and ruin the motor. Small and heavy objects like screws, coins, or large pieces of broken glass could cut the dust bag if vacuumed and damage the internal parts. Used coffee grounds are another thing that should not be vacuumed. They can block pipes, destroy motors, and result in the growth of mildew. Avoid vacuuming long clumps of hair, too, as they can get stuck inside the machine. Running the vacuum when the dust bag is full Whenever the dust container or bin is full, it should be emptied. On the off chance that you don't do that, the performance of the vacuum cleaner will be affected. You also risk overheating and harming the machine. However, time after time, we're in a rush and run the machine when it's overfilled. In the event that you notice the vacuum cleaner doesn't appear to have as much suction, take a look at the bin or dust bag first. More often than not, emptying these can have a tremendous effect on the vacuum's performance. It will likewise lessen the weight on the motor and extend the life of the machine. Throwing away the vacuum prematurely If your vacuum cleaner isn't suctioning things like it used to, don't just assume it's old and broken. There are various easy ways to fix the machine. First, check if the dust bag is full. Most vacuum cleaners perform poorly when the dust bag is full or nearly full. If this doesn't work, there could be a clog somewhere. Unplug the machine and remove its parts carefully. Check if the hose or its surrounding openings are blocked. Your brush-roll could not be running smoothly because of too much hair or carpet fibers stuck inside. Clean the clogged parts and your vacuum will start running just fine. Assuming the motor is broken Sometimes vacuum cleaners stop working mid-way. This is not because the motor is broken. It could simply mean that the machine has overheated because of a full dust bin. Empty the bag and try running the machine once it's cooled down. Some machines have a manual reset button that needs to be pushed to reset the motor. Read the instructions booklet on how to resolve this issue. Not cleaning the filter All vacuum cleaners have a filter that can get blocked due to excess dirt. They prevent dust from recirculating back into the air. The process of cleaning the filter is different for every model. Some have washable filters while others need to be replaced. Read the instruction manual and take the necessary steps to clean it accordingly.

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6 eco-friendly products every home should have

Many use plastic bottles, containers, and other things made of plastic because they are easy to find and durable. So, it's not surprising that between one and two million tons of plastic are disposed of in the sea every year. Plastic pollution is very much real! Plastic takes centuries to decompose, which should be reason enough to swap it with something else. Here are eco-friendly alternatives to products made of plastic and other harmful materials. Dryer balls Dryer sheets stop clothes from clinging to each other in a washing machine. However, those wanting an eco-friendly alternative can get dryer balls. These are usually made of wool or other natural fibers and, unlike dryer sheets, do not use chemicals. Even then, they efficiently separate clothes in washing machines and ensure they come out perfectly soft. Cloth bags Everyone needs large bags to store groceries and other household items picked up on a shopping spree. Plastic bags are the culprits for much of the waste generated every day, and that’s why an eco-friendly alternative has become necessary. Cloth is easily recyclable and a better option than use-and-throw plastic bags. Jute, linen, denim, silk, and cotton bags are also suitable. Bamboo toilet paper Bamboo toilet paper is non-septic and biodegradable, which makes it good for the skin and the environment. Besides, softwood and hardwood trees traditionally used to make paper take several years to grow, but bamboo usually grows back in just three to four months. So, bamboo toilet paper is a much better alternative to regular toilet paper. Once disposed of, it degrades in soil in less than six months. Eco-friendly toothbrushes Dentists say it’s good to change one’s toothbrush every few months. However, buying and disposing of them frequently can increase non-biodegradable waste because most commercial toothbrushes are made of plastic. Fortunately, many brands now manufacture eco-friendly toothbrushes made of nylon bristles and bamboo, making them biodegradable and environment-friendly options. Natural cleaning products Most conventional cleaning solutions available in stores are non-biodegradable and full of chemicals, harming the environment. It’s a good idea to swap these solutions for eco-friendly ones made of natural ingredients like essential oils and plant extracts. Natural cleaners are equally effective and do a world of good for the environment. One should also stock up on natural cleaning ingredients like baking soda and apple cider vinegar, which can be used to remove stains and leave surfaces spick and span. Solar panel chargers Solar chargers may be relatively more expensive than regular chargers, but those who are environmentally conscious will not regret getting them. Solar panel chargers are sustainable and also extremely convenient because one can reap the benefits of an uninterrupted power supply during a power outage. One can also carry solar-friendly chargers to work, on vacations, etc. Before buying any product touted as eco-friendly, one should check whether it has been certified by a recognized organization. As the market for eco-friendly goods expands, it’s easy for brands to pass off a product as eco-friendly when it actually isn’t.

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