#Regular Cleaning to Avoid Floor Damage
Explore tagged Tumblr posts
Text
How to Keep Your Laminate Vinyl Floors Scratch-Free: Tips and Tricks
Despite its reputation for longevity, laminate vinyl floors are subject to scratches over time, just like any other type of flooring. You can keep them immaculate for years if you give them the right maintenance. To avoid scratches on your laminate vinyl floors, try these useful tips and tricks:

Use Furniture Pads
Moving furniture across the floor is one of the most frequent ways to get scratches on it. Put felt pads under the legs of chairs, tables, and other furniture to stop this. By serving as a barrier between your furniture and the floor, these pads help to avoid scratches.
Lift, Don’t Drag
Always lift rather than drag heavy objects, such as furniture, while relocating them. Objects slid across laminate vinyl flooring may scrape or scuff the surface. When transferring big objects, get assistance or use furniture sliders.
Use Area Rugs and Mats
Rugs and mats placed thoughtfully in high-traffic areas can help shield your flooring from dings and scrapes. Area rugs look great in hallways, behind furniture, and at entryways. Additionally, dirt and debris that can scratch your flooring like sandpaper are captured by rugs.
Regular Cleaning
Scratches can result from walking on dirt, sand, or grit. Vacuum, sweep, or mop your floors frequently to prevent this. For mild cleaning that doesn't harm the surface, use a microfiber mop or a vacuum with a hard floor setting. Steer clear of sharp cleaning equipment that can cause scratches on the surface.
Avoid High Heels and Sharp Objects
It is possible to cause dents and scratches on laminate vinyl flooring by dropping sharp objects or walking on it while wearing high heels, especially stilettos. Family members and visitors should be reminded to take off their shoes at the door, and they should use caution while handling heavy or sharp objects that could spill.
Choose the Right Cleaning Products
The protective layer that shields laminate vinyl floors from scratches can be weakened by certain cleaning products' strong chemicals. If cleaning vinyl or laminate flooring, always use pH-neutral or carefully prepared solutions. Don't use items that contain wax, ammonia, or bleach.
Keep Pet Nails Trimmed
One major cause of scratches on floors is pets. To reduce the chance that your pet will scratch the surface, keep their nails clipped. For further security, consider putting rugs in your pet's preferred spots.
With the correct care, maintaining scratch-free laminate vinyl floors is easy. You may preserve the lovely, stain-free appearance of your floors for many years to come by employing furniture pads, rugs, and mild cleaning techniques in addition to avoiding dragging furniture and wearing high heels.
#Laminate Vinyl Floors#Keep Pet Nails Trimmed#Flooring#Cleaning Products#Furniture Pads for Floor Protection#Regular Cleaning to Avoid Floor Damage#Using Rugs and Mats
1 note
·
View note
Text
Most people will have heard or read the phrase "You are closer to becoming homeless than you will ever be to becoming a billionaire". But I think the recent flood has really put it into perspective.
I am guessing that pretty much everyone, at least everyone living in the east of Austria, knows someone who was financially secure, not in any kind of debt, had savings, maybe even "above average" wealthy. And is now facing financial ruin after having their home destroyed. Thousands, if not tens of thousands, of people are in that situation right now.
For example, a family member of mine is a retired doctor - doctors are not RICH-rich, but of course, well-off enough so this family never had any money troubles or the like. A first, currently inofficial, estimation by an acquaintance puts their damage at several 100,000€ - entire basement flooded, large parts of the ground floor destroyed as well, the fancy kitchen they got only a year ago in ruins. It is a matter of if it is even possible to save the house at all or if they, people in their mid-60s, now have to rebuild or move away.
Luckily enough my parents can help them out financially if needed, but that will not be the case for everyone. Insurances pay out about 5,000€ for flooding. With sums like several 100k, that is not even a band-aid. I don't know much about the relief funds but to my knowledge, they pay a maximum of 20%.
If Mark Mateschitz lost his entire house, it would suck, but he would just pay some people to clean it up and financially would not even notice if he had to build five new ones. The money that disappeared from Rene Benko's hands could pay for everyone's flood damage several times over.
A "normal person" with a "normal job" - even if it is a well-paying job like a doctor or someone in middle management or a local business owner or anything like that - a regular, working citizen can never be truly financially secure. You are always at most one bad natural catastrophe away from financial ruin. And unless you can somehow work 1000 hours a day for 1000 years at your normal person job, you will never even come close to the wealth of a Swarovsky, Johann Graf, or Glock's heirs. And these people are still very small fish compared to international billionaires.
Tax payers supporting unemployed people are not the problem, taxes paying for catastrophe relief funds are not the problem, taxes bailing out rich scumbag grifters are the problem, and rich scumbag grifters who know every trick in the book to avoid paying taxes are the problem. But the rich scumbag grifters will still bleed everyone dry without batting an eye while families who have worked honest jobs their entire lives are sitting in their ruined basement, crying over destroyed photo albums and losing sleep over how they can afford to rebuild their home.
110 notes
·
View notes
Text
AGA REVAMPED CH1: THE NEW OLD COMER

It was the closing shift at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizzeria, most of the employees had gone home already and the animatronics had all gone into sleep mode. A dark skinned man with curly bleached blonde hair wearing the uniform of a Fazbear technician was carrying a box full of spare parts from the Parts and Service to the Kids’ Cove. The technician was being followed by a teenager with white skin, reddish brown hair and brown eyes wearing a regular day shift uniform also holding a box of spare parts.
“I’m telling ya Toby, there was a yellow rabbit at Fredbear’s,” said the dark skinned man.
“Jeremy, both my brother and I never saw a yellow rabbit at Fredbear’s whenever we would go, there was a yellow bear, yeah, but no rabbit,” replied Toby.
“That’s because you were six when Fredbear’s closed!” yelled Jeremy, “your memory can’t be trusted!”
“With that logic, neither can yours!” Toby argued back.
“The difference is that I’m twenty seven, and you’re sixteen,” said Jeremy.
“And you’re twenty seven and working at Freddy’s!” replied Toby.
The two employees argued back and forth while walking to Kids’ Cove. When they got there, there was another employee there cleaning the tables. The employee was a teenage girl around Toby’s age with pale skin, straight black hair, wearing gothic makeup and jewelry over their day shift uniform. The girl was eyeing the twitching animatronic laying on the floor being careful to avoid the Mangle as she cleaned.
“Millie, tell him that there wasn’t a yellow rabbit at Fredbear’s or any rabbit at all!” said Toby to the goth girl.
Millie sighed and rolled her eyes before answering him.
“Fredbear’s shutdown ten years ago, and any information about it is unreasonably hard to find, there could have been a purple bear there for all we know!” said Millie exasperated.
“I just want that thing fixed,” said Millie while nervously pointing at the Mangle animatronic spasm on the floor, “it’s making me nervous.”
Jeremy and the other technicians were getting fed up with having to fix Mangle everyday, as of then Jeremy was the only technician that hadn’t gotten fed up with repairing the Mangle. Even the regular front employees were getting fed up with having to save Mangle from the toddlers. No one knew why Mangle was the only one of the Toy animatronics to get treated like that by the toddlers when all of the Toys were meant for toddlers and physically play with the kids as well. Millie and Toby were the only closing shift employees who were willing to help Jeremy repair them. But Millie won’t touch Mangle in case “it flipped out and bit her head off”.
“I recommend fixing him quickly since your boyfriend is here,” said Millie to Jeremy.
Jeremy was examining what damage was on Mangle when Millie said that. He looked confused at first before it clicked in his head who Millie was talking about.
“Oh you mean Mike!” said Jeremy, lighting up.
Millie nodded as she moved to move the decorator gift boxes out of the way so Jeremy and Toby had space to work.
“What’s he doing here?” asked Jeremy slightly confused after a few seconds.
Mike Schmidt was the nightguard who took over the role after Jeremy transferred to the day shift. Mike also happened to have been best friends with Jeremy since they were twelve. The night shift typically started from twelve a.m and lasted to six a.m so it was strange for a night guard to be there so early. The earliest a night guard has been was arriving a whole thirty minutes early to avoid walking to the bus in the rain.
“Hell if I know, he’s just been sitting at one of the tables watching the band even though they’re not powered on,” said Millie.
The boys quickly made whatever repairs that they could make while Millie continued to clean the room. Toddlers were messy beasts so there was spilled juices, sodas, dropped pizza and cake frosting smeared everywhere. One would think that parents would have the decency to clean up their kids or at least prevent them from making so much of a mess, but this was Freddy’s they once had to add the rule ‘don’t poop on the floor’ to the guest rule list, so they couldn’t have that.
After finishing them they walked out into the main room where they found Mike sitting at one of the tables staring at the classic animatronic with a somber look on his face. Mike was more accurately staring at Freddy, the lead singer and one out of two original animatronics that came from Fredbear’s that were still kicking around. Mike looked like if he had a cigarette he would be smoking it. Jeremy tried to sneak up on Mike and scare him, but when he shook Mike’s shoulders, Mike didn’t flinch or look surprised at all. Millie and Toby stood to the side of them and looked at the band adopting the somber look that Mike had.
Toby couldn’t keep his eyes off of Bonnie, he could see how little kids loved that damn rabbit but he just creeped him out. It didn’t help that whenever he looked at that rabbit he just saw that blasted shadow rabbit that haunted him on the days leading up to the day that he almost died.
“I don’t like that rabbit,” said Toby, breaking the awkward silence.
Millie grimaced while looking at Freddy. Millie was normally fine around the animatronics, even getting along well with them, except when it comes down to Freddy and Mangle. She always appeared uneasy around them no matter how hard she tried to hide it.
“I hate that bear as well,” said Millie, “on a personal level.”
“If I had a drink, I would have drank to that,” said Mike, his raspy voice coated with a British accent startling Millie and Toby.
Millie and Toby barely see Mike at all, let alone hear his voice so they weren’t expecting that. They had no idea what they were expecting but it wasn’t exactly like how they pictured his voice. It made sense that he had the voice of a smoker as he gave off the vibe, but it was the British accent that threw them off.
“Hey Mike, why are you here so early?” asked Jeremy while his arms were wrapped around Mike’s shoulders and practically hanging off of him.
Mike let out a heavy sigh and got up before answering him
“We’re getting a delivery today,” said Mike.
Mike got up from where he was sitting. Mike fixed the chair upside down on the top of the table.
“What new attraction is being added now?” asked Toby.
“I didn’t think that we would get a new attraction so soon after what happened with the Hide and Seek game,” said Millie, ignoring the way Toby flinched upon being reminded of that game.
Mike took one last look at Freddy before answering them. Jeremy seemed to be studying Mike’s facial expression and mode. Jeremy started to look a bit queasy, even muttering the words ‘it can’t be him, can it?’.
“Not a new attraction, maybe one day,” said Mike.
“Follow me,” said Mike as he gestured for them to follow him.
Mike took them out the side door, and to the side of the building where they usually got deliveries.
“They’re moving an old animatronic from Fredbear’s,” said Mike suddenly.
Millie and Toby were extremely young when Fredbear’s closed down due to some freak accident that happened there, so they barely knew what Fredbear’s was like. Toby had been there a few times as a young child with his brother while Millie never went at all. Mike and Jeremy on the other hand who went to Fredbear’s regularly enough to have a full picture in their heads of what it was like, even if Jeremy was completely wrong about there being a yellow rabbit there.
“Is it..?” asked Jeremy hesitantly.
Jeremy looked like he was about to say something before stopping himself, leaving the question to hang. But it seemed as though Mike knew exactly what Jeremy was getting at.
“Yes,” answered Mike, not clarifying what they were talking about.
Neither Mike nor Jeremy looked well upon realizing who was being shipped there while Toby and Millie were just very confused. Using what little information they knew about the diner this meant that the animatronic they were talking about must have been Golden Freddy, or Goldie for short. It could have been another animatronic as with what Millie said, information about Fredbear’s was hard to find so there could have been other animatronics there, one of which being the one moved to Freddy’s. But the two teenagers doubted that it could have been another animatronic as Freddy and the Marionette were already there, and they were the last surviving animatronics from that location, according to some of the older employees who liked to gossip about the company’s shady history.
“Why’s he being moved here?” asked Jeremy.
“The majority of the board members want to scrap him down for parts to make a new animatronic but Mr. Emily and-, too attached to that damn Bear to let him be taken apart so the board told him that if Goldie is able to play nicely enough with the other animatronics here, specifically the ones that were also from Fredbear’s, they’ll fix him and give him another chance at being show animatronic,” replied Mike.
Mike was about to say something after the word ‘and’, but stopped himself as if he just realized he wasn’t meant to say whatever he was going to say. What Mike said also put their wondering to rest about who this animatronic was. Jeremy looked understanding towards what Mike had said, but it was clear in his eyes that there were many questions he still wanted to ask. Mike also carried himself in a way that suggested that he knew more than he let on.
“How come none of the other animatronics are online?” asked Toby, “when the toys arrived all of the classics were online to greet them.”
“Trust me kid, it’s best if the others don’t know about Goldie until he’s settled in already,” replied Mike.
They didn’t have to wait much longer for the animatronic to arrive as a company branded truck pulled up in front of them. Mike and Jeremy went to help the delivery guys take Goldie out of the truck. The Golden Freddy animatronic was inside of a wooden box, the box was much smaller than what they expected. The box looked like it could fix Bonnie who was the smallest of the classic band if they took off his calves. They thought that Goldie would be a bigger animatronic since Freddy himself was a big animatronic, but they guessed it made sense that Goldie was on the smaller side since he was meant to be Freddy’s younger brother.
After the delivery people left Millie and Toby helped the two senior staff members wheel the box into the restaurant. Jeremy and Mike seemed to freeze up when passing by the Toys stage before remembering that they were switched off, but Millie wasn’t sure if Mangle was turned off with how he was twitching on the floor earlier. They managed to get the box to the backroom without a hinge.
The backroom looked a lot different from the last time that they were there, which was the previous day. It was clear that earlier that day that someone had been in there to decorate it. In the corner was a makeshift bed made out of cardboard with some pretty nice looking children’s blankets over it with a single as well. Tucked away in a corner were some children's toys that looked used, the toy that caught their eyes was the Goldie plush that sat on top of one of the boxes. The whole room looked much cleaner than before.
“I suggest you two leave the room so we could turn them on,” said Mike.
“Why?” asked Toby, “we’ve handled Mangle, a dangerous animatronic that could take anyone’s head off at any given time before.”
Mike sighed before answering him.
“Goldie knows both Jeremy and I, he’s used to us, he doesn’t know you, he might freak out if he wakes up in an unfamiliar place with strangers,” answered Mike.
Both Millie and Toby nodded in understanding and left the room. It didn’t take long before something went wrong. They heard a loud crash before they heard Mike screaming and Jeremy yelling. They swung the door open to see that Goldie was standing over the downed Mike with a look of pure hatred on his face standing over him with Jeremy trying to pull him off. Goldie froze when he saw Millie and Toby looking at them with shocked expressions. Goldie seemed to realize what he had done and backed off of him.
Goldie was a withered animatronic missing his right ear, with tufts of fur missing exposing the bare endo underneath and the previously massive bowtie was a mess with one side almost completely gone and the other with the ends shredded. He also had a massive top hat that looked like it would fall off his head at any time. His fur was matted in many areas and it looked like it was once a bright yellow but now it had darkened over the years. His eyes, or lack of, were the most interesting thing to them. Where his eyes should be were empty pits with a small blue light in the left eye and a small red light in the right eye.
“What the-” started Toby.
“I’m so sorry, I-” started Goldie at the same time.
“You’re so cute!” Millie said, interrupting both of them.
Everyone in the room looked taken aback at what Millie said but none more so than Goldie himself. Before Toby or anyone could stop her she ran up to Goldie and hugged them. Squishing her face against the side of Goldie’s face while kneeling down next to him while being careful not to smudge her makeup against him. Goldie looked mildly uncomfortable while being hugged. Well at first he looked uncomfortable but soon he lit up with a bright smile and his eyes grew significantly brighter.
“You…you think I’m cute?” asked Goldie with hope breaking out in his voice.
“Yes, you are,” said Millie, “you will be forever cute to me as long as you don’t try to take my head off.”
Goldie tensed at that comment while both Mike and Jeremy looked visibly uncomfortable.
“Ye…yeah I would never do that,” said Goldie suddenly springing up mid sentence with a goofy tone of voice.
“Then I guess you’re alright by me!” replied Millie.
Toby noted how weirdly Goldie acted when Millie said that. He knew that something had happened at Fredbear’s that caused it to shut down, some kind of accident, and he was starting to get the feeling that Goldie was involved. Especially with the way the higher ups didn’t want the other animatronics to know that Goldie was being moved there.
Mike got up off the ground and dusted himself off. Mike looked sadly at the teenager and animatronic before speaking.
“Well Millie since it looks like Goldie likes you and you like him, so I think it would be best for you to be the one to repair him,” said Mike
Millie groaned and rolled her eyes causing both Goldie and Toby to lightly laugh.
“Think of it as punishment for not helping Jeremy and Toby with fixing Mangle after shift,” said Mike.
“How do you know that?” asked Millie.
Mike didn’t need to answer because Jeremy’s face gave it all away. It was obvious that Jeremy had told Mike about it.
“Ugh, fine I’ll fix the little bastard,” said Millie.
“Don’t worry toots, I don’t bite,” said Goldie cheekily.
The boys left the room to give Millie the space she needed to work with only Jeremy hanging behind in case she needed help. Toby was confused. First Mike and Jeremy said that Goldie might attack them because he doesn’t know him or Millie but then he attacked Mike and was fine with them. Not only that but Mike and Jeremy have been acting strange with this animatronic. Normally Jeremy was cool and leaned back but now he seemed on edge and Mike well he always seemed dead on the inside whenever Toby saw him.
“So what now?” asked Toby.
“We wake up the others and tell them that there’s a new animatronic here and introduce everyone once Millie finishes fixing him,” replied Mike.
Toby wasn’t sure how well Millie would be able to fix since she didn’t have the experience that someone like Jeremy did when it comes to fixing animatronics. The most that would get fixed is the joints and parts that are a fire hazard will get covered.
Soon they reached the main stage. Mike flipped the power switch for the stage and one by one each animatronic turned on.
Chapter 2: Fragments of the Pasts, coming soon!
#artwork#aga au#aga revamped#artists on tumblr#ask goldie anything#ask goldie anything revamped#golden freddy#mike schmidt#jeremy fitzgerald#fnaf toby#millie fitzsimmons#goldie is smaller than he is in the photo i just goofed the perspective#i didn't mention this before but yes this will include more lore stuff#and some of the books stories r canon to this but with some changes done to them#i'm hoping after completing ch2 i'll be able to open asks#dw mike and them don't hate the animatronics but they do have a complicated relationship with them#especially the older ones
19 notes
·
View notes
Text
How to Maintain a Screened Porch: A Practical Guide for Homeowners in South Bend
A screened porch is one of those home features that just makes life better. It’s a spot where you can sip coffee in the morning, unwind in the evening, and enjoy the fresh air—without worrying about bugs or unpredictable weather. But to keep that little slice of paradise looking good and functioning well, regular maintenance is key.
Now, don’t worry. We’re not talking about back-breaking work. A little attention here and there will keep your porch in top shape year-round. Whether you use it as an outdoor living room, a pet-friendly space, or a cozy reading nook, here’s what you need to know to keep it clean, comfortable, and long-lasting.
Keep the Screens Clean and Damage-Free
The screens are the heart of your porch—after all, they’re what keep the bugs and debris out. A little grime here and there is normal, but dirt buildup can block airflow and make your porch feel stuffy. Worse, small tears can turn into big problems if left unchecked.
How to Clean the Screens Without Damaging Them
Use a soft brush or vacuum with a brush attachment to remove loose dust and pollen.
Mix warm water with a mild detergent and gently scrub the screens using a soft sponge.
Rinse with a garden hose on low pressure (too much force can stretch or tear the mesh).
For stubborn dirt, a 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and water works wonders.
What About Small Tears or Holes?
A tiny hole might not seem like a big deal, but mosquitoes and other pests will find their way in. Here’s a quick fix:
For small holes: A drop of clear nail polish or household glue can seal it up.
For larger tears: Use a self-adhesive screen patch or replace the damaged section with a screen repair kit.
Sweep, Mop, and Protect the Flooring
Your screened porch flooring takes a beating from dirt, dust, and foot traffic—especially if you’re in and out all day. Regular cleaning keeps it looking fresh and prevents long-term wear and tear.
Routine Cleaning Steps:
Sweep or use a leaf blower at least once a week to remove debris.
Mop with a gentle cleaner every few weeks (avoid harsh chemicals that could damage wood or composite flooring).
If you have tile or stone, check for cracks and seal them as needed.
Preventing Water Damage and Mold
Even though your porch is covered, humidity and rain can still sneak in. South Bend weather can be unpredictable, so it’s smart to take a few precautions:
Use weatherproof rugs to protect wooden floors from moisture.
Keep an eye on mold—if you notice dark spots, a mixture of water and white vinegar can help keep them at bay.
Ensure proper drainage by checking that water doesn’t pool near the edges of the porch.
Maintain the Porch Structure: Railings, Beams, and Roof
A screened porch isn’t just about the screens—the overall structure needs attention, too. Wood, metal, and vinyl components can all deteriorate over time, so regular inspections will save you from costly repairs later.
Key Areas to Check:
Wood beams and railings – Look for signs of rot, splinters, or termite damage.
Metal components – Rust spots? A little sanding and rust-proof paint will do the trick.
Roof and ceiling – Check for leaks, sagging spots, or signs of water damage.
Seasonal Maintenance Tip
South Bend winters can be tough on porches. Before the snow hits:
Check the roof and support beams for weaknesses.
Ensure gutters are clear so melting snow doesn’t drip onto your porch floor.
Store outdoor furniture cushions indoors to prevent mildew buildup.
Keep the Bugs (and Critters) Out
A screened porch is supposed to be a bug-free oasis, but let’s be honest—those tiny pests are always looking for a way in.
How to Prevent Bugs from Sneaking Inside:
Seal gaps around doors and flooring with weatherstripping.
Keep lights to a minimum—bugs love porch lights, so opt for yellow bug-resistant bulbs.
Use citronella candles or essential oil sprays as natural repellents.
Dealing with Unwanted Visitors
Sometimes, bigger critters (like squirrels or raccoons) get curious. If you spot claw marks or hear rustling, check for loose or torn screens. If an animal has made a habit of visiting, consider installing a door sweep or a sturdier mesh along the lower portion of the porch.
Refresh the Space for Maximum Comfort
A well-maintained screened porch isn’t just about structure—it should feel like an inviting part of your home. Keeping it clean is one thing, but a little decorating and upkeep can make it even better.
Simple Ways to Keep Your Porch Looking Great:
Rotate furniture and cushions to prevent fading from sun exposure.
Add potted plants for a fresh, lively touch (just make sure they don’t attract pests).
Use outdoor-friendly curtains or shades for extra privacy and sun protection.
Install a ceiling fan to keep air circulating during hot summers.
Know When It’s Time for Professional Help
Some maintenance tasks are easy enough to handle yourself, but others? Not so much. If your screens are sagging, your flooring is warping, or you spot signs of structural damage, it’s worth calling in the pros.
Screenmobile South Bend specializes in screened porch repairs and upgrades, making sure your outdoor space stays in top condition. Whether you need a full rescreening, structural fixes, or even a complete porch makeover, they’ve got you covered.
Conclusion
Maintaining a screened porch doesn’t have to feel like a chore. A little regular cleaning, some quick fixes when needed, and seasonal checkups will keep it looking great year after year.
So, whether you’re relaxing with a book, hosting a family get-together, or just enjoying a quiet morning with your coffee, you can do it all without the hassle of bugs or weather damage.
If your porch needs a little extra care—or a full refresh—reach out to Screenmobile South Bend. They’ll help you keep your screened porch in perfect shape, so you can enjoy every season, stress-free.
7 notes
·
View notes
Text
Protect and Shine Your Hardwood Floors with Chicago Experts
Hardwood flooring is one of the most timeless and attractive features in any home. It provides warmth, beauty, and elegance that few other flooring types can match. But maintaining that rich luster and durability over the years takes more than routine cleaning—it requires expert care and occasional professional treatments. That’s where the seasoned specialists in Chicago come in. With their experience, advanced techniques, and understanding of wood flooring, Chicago hardwood experts can help your floors stay beautiful and resilient for decades.
In this article, we’ll explore how to properly protect and rejuvenate your hardwood floors, the importance of professional maintenance, and why working with a hardwood flooring screen & coat contractor near Chicago can be one of the best decisions you make for your home.
The Value of Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood floors are a substantial investment that can significantly increase the value and appeal of your home. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but they are also durable, hypoallergenic, and easy to clean. Whether you own a classic Chicago brownstone, a modern condo, or a suburban home, hardwood floors add character and class.
However, even the most durable wood floors are not invincible. Over time, daily wear and tear can dull their shine, scratch the surface, and expose the wood to potential damage from moisture and dirt. That’s why regular maintenance and occasional professional treatments are crucial.
Understanding the Enemies of Hardwood
Before diving into protection and shine strategies, it’s important to understand what challenges hardwood floors face:
1. Foot Traffic
Constant walking, especially in busy households or high-traffic areas, wears down the finish and exposes the wood to scratches and scuffs.
2. Furniture and Pet Damage
Heavy furniture, pet claws, and dragging items across the floor can lead to dents, scratches, and gouges.
3. Moisture and Spills
Water is wood’s worst enemy. Spills, high humidity, or even wet shoes can cause warping, swelling, and staining if not cleaned up quickly.
4. Dirt and Grit
Fine particles of dirt and sand can act like sandpaper underfoot, slowly grinding down the finish and dulling the floor.
Daily Maintenance Tips to Preserve Shine
While professional treatments are essential every few years, daily care routines can extend the life of your hardwood floors and keep them looking great between services.
1. Sweep or Vacuum Daily
Use a soft-bristled broom or a vacuum cleaner designed for hardwood floors to remove dust and debris. This prevents dirt buildup that can scratch the surface.
2. Use Doormats and Rugs
Place mats at entrances and rugs in high-traffic areas to reduce the amount of dirt and moisture tracked onto your floors.
3. Protect from Furniture
Use felt pads under furniture legs and avoid dragging heavy items. For rolling chairs, use a protective mat.
4. Control Humidity
Keep your home’s humidity levels between 30-50% to prevent the wood from expanding and contracting excessively.
5. Wipe Up Spills Immediately
Even small spills can seep into cracks and cause damage over time. Always use a dry or slightly damp cloth.
What Is a Screen and Coat Treatment?
As floors age, they may lose their shine and develop fine scratches even if they are structurally sound. That’s where a screen and coat comes into play.
A screen and coat (also known as buff and recoat) is a process where the floor’s top layer of finish is lightly abraded (screened) and then a fresh coat of polyurethane is applied. This process restores the floor’s sheen and provides renewed protection without the need for a full sanding and refinishing.
Benefits of a Screen and Coat:
Quick turnaround: Most projects are completed in a day or two.
Cost-effective: Less expensive than full refinishing.
Less invasive: No need to sand down to the bare wood.
Renewed protection: Extends the life of your finish by several years.
Environmental benefits: Less dust and chemical use.
Signs You Need a Screen and Coat
Not sure if your floors need a screen and coat or something more extensive? Here are a few signs that a buff and recoat might be the right solution:
Your floors look dull or hazy but are not severely scratched.
There are superficial scratches and scuff marks that haven’t penetrated the wood.
Water droplets no longer bead on the surface.
You want to maintain the finish and extend its life.
If the damage goes deeper, such as deep gouges, exposed wood, or severe discoloration, a complete sand and refinish may be necessary instead.
Why Choose a Professional for the Job?
While DIY floor treatments are popular online, screen and coat is not a job for beginners. Proper technique, tools, and materials are essential to achieving a professional result.
Here’s why hiring a hardwood flooring screen & coat contractor near Chicago is the smart choice:
1. Local Experience
Chicago’s climate, housing styles, and architectural history are unique. Local contractors understand how to work with specific wood types, subfloor conditions, and environmental factors.
2. Proper Tools and Materials
Professional-grade buffing machines, sanding screens, and polyurethane finishes yield better results than off-the-shelf products.
3. Efficient and Clean
Professionals can complete the job faster and cleaner, with dust containment systems and low-VOC finishes that are safe for your family.
4. Guaranteed Results
Reputable contractors offer warranties or guarantees, ensuring you get long-lasting results.

What to Expect from a Screen and Coat Service
Working with an expert hardwood flooring contractor near Chicago means you can expect a seamless process from start to finish. Here’s what a typical screen and coat service looks like:
Step 1: Inspection and Assessment
A contractor will evaluate your floors to determine if they’re suitable for a screen and coat. They’ll look for deep damage, existing finish condition, and moisture content.
Step 2: Preparation
The area is cleaned thoroughly. Furniture is moved, and baseboards may be taped off. Floors must be free of waxes or oil-based cleaners, as these can interfere with adhesion.
Step 3: Screening
Using a buffer and a mesh screen pad, the top coat of finish is lightly abraded. This step helps the new coat bond properly.
Step 4: Cleanup
Any dust created during the screening is vacuumed and wiped clean to ensure a smooth surface.
Step 5: Coating
A new coat of polyurethane is applied. The contractor may use water-based or oil-based finishes depending on your preference and the needs of your floor.
Step 6: Drying and Curing
Most water-based finishes dry in a few hours and cure in 24–48 hours. Oil-based finishes take longer to dry and cure fully.
Choosing the Right Contractor
Not all contractors are created equal. To ensure your hardwood floors are in good hands, look for these qualities in a hardwood flooring screen & coat contractor near Chicago:
1. Positive Reviews
Check Google, Yelp, and Angi for customer feedback. Look for consistent praise in areas like professionalism, cleanliness, and final results.
2. Licensed and Insured
Make sure the contractor is fully licensed and carries liability insurance. This protects you and your property.
3. Experience and Specialization
Choose a contractor who specializes in hardwood flooring and screen and coat services—not just general flooring or remodeling.
4. Transparent Pricing
A trustworthy contractor provides written estimates and explains the scope of work clearly.
5. Portfolio of Work
Ask to see before-and-after photos of past projects to assess the quality of their craftsmanship.
Aftercare: Keeping the Shine Going
Once your screen and coat is complete, taking the right steps will help preserve the results:
Wait at least 24 hours before walking on the floor.
Avoid placing furniture back for 48 hours (longer for rugs).
Clean with products recommended by your contractor—avoid harsh chemicals.
Use protective pads and avoid high heels or cleats indoors.
Maintain a cleaning schedule and address minor scratches quickly.
Chicago’s Hardwood Flooring Experts Are Here to Help
Living in the Chicago area means dealing with distinct seasonal changes, older homes, and sometimes harsh conditions. That’s why it’s so valuable to work with professionals who know how to maintain hardwood floors in this unique environment.
Whether your floors are looking a little tired or you’re preparing to sell your home, a screen and coat is one of the best ways to refresh their look and prolong their life. Don’t wait until the damage is irreversible—take action today and partner with a trusted hardwood flooring screen & coat contractor near Chicago to bring out the best in your floors.
Final Thoughts
Hardwood flooring brings beauty, value, and warmth to any space. But to truly protect and shine your floors, routine maintenance and professional care are essential. Chicago homeowners are fortunate to have access to some of the best hardwood floor specialists in the region.
Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the city, ensuring your hardwood floors are properly protected means you’ll enjoy their elegance for years to come. From simple buff and coat treatments to ongoing expert guidance, your local flooring pros are ready to help you keep your home looking its best.
youtube
#Protect and Shine Your Hardwood Floors with Chicago Experts#Chicago hardwood flooring screen & coat#hardwood flooring screen & coat near Chicago#hardwood flooring screen & coat company near Chicago#hardwood flooring screen & coat contractor near Chicago#Youtube
2 notes
·
View notes
Text
How to Prep Your Home Before the Cleaners Arrive
Hiring a professional cleaning service is a smart way to save time, reduce stress, and maintain a sparkling home. Whether you’re booking a one-time deep clean or setting up a regular schedule, a little prep before the cleaners arrive can help them work more efficiently and ensure you get the best results. Here’s how you can prep your home before the cleaners arrive—without spending hours doing their job for them.
Declutter Surfaces and Floors
Cleaners are there to clean, not organise. Clearing off countertops, floors, and tables of unnecessary clutter—like clothes, toys, papers, and dishes—makes it easier for them to access the areas that need attention. The more space they can get to, the better the results. Think of it like giving them a clean canvas to work their magic on.
Secure Valuables and Confidential Items
While most reputable cleaning companies North Shore perform background checks and only hire trusted professionals, it’s still a good idea to store valuables, important documents, or sensitive items in a safe place. This helps prevent any accidental damage or misplacement during the cleaning process.
Communicate Your Priorities
Do you want special attention paid to the kitchen grout? Are you concerned about pet hair on upholstery? Let your cleaners know! Most cleaning services North Shore appreciate when clients are upfront about their priorities. Leave a note or have a quick conversation at the start so that they know where to focus their efforts. This ensures your expectations align with the service being provided.
Do a Light Tidy-Up (But Don’t Overdo It)
You don’t need to scrub or vacuum—that’s what your cleaners are for. But a quick tidy-up, like loading the dishwasher or putting dirty laundry in the hamper, can help. If cleaners don’t have to spend extra time moving items around, they can dedicate more energy to actual cleaning tasks like dusting, sanitising, and polishing.
Put Pets in a Safe Space
Even if your pet is friendly, they might get anxious around new people, loud vacuums, or cleaning sprays. For the safety of both your pet and the cleaners, it’s best to secure your furry friend in a separate room or arrange for them to be out during the service.
Free Up Parking or Provide Access Info
If your cleaners need to bring in equipment or supplies, having a nearby parking space can make things easier and quicker. If you live in a gated community or apartment complex, make sure they have the necessary access codes or instructions to reach your home without delays.
Review Your Service Agreement
Take a few minutes to review what’s included in your cleaning package. Some services offer extras like fridge cleaning or window washing, while others may not. Knowing what to expect will help avoid any confusion or unmet expectations.
Final Thoughts
Prepping your home before your cleaners arrive doesn’t require a ton of effort—but the payoff is huge. A bit of organisation allows professionals to do what they do best: deliver a thorough, high-quality clean. If you’re looking for trusted cleaners North Shore residents recommend, make sure to choose a company that values communication and quality service from the start.
The author works at a professional cleaning company for over 4 years now. He often writes articles on home and lifestyle, sharing tips to help homeowners maintain a clean and organised living space. Visit https://www.crystalcleansydney.com.au/
2 notes
·
View notes
Text
(OC: Batyr)
Yeah, this was the "creature of the night" character I was alluding to in Essa's reference image. He's definitely among one of my stranger Toon OCs (at least when it comes to active abilities).
As for lore, Batyr was... definitely among one of the less popular Toons. Not only does Batyr not like to show himself in the flesh and tend to sleep during the daytime (Your best bet at seeing him was during the autumn or winter, when nights would come earlier and become longer), some guests and even other Toons found Batyr's hunger for Ichor (Since Batyr's a Toon, he feeds of Ichor, not human blood) off-putting. Due to many Toons (except for Connie) not being awake at the same time as Batyr or not even wanting to be close to him out of self-preservation instincts, Batyr tended to only be active at night, looking for sleeping, unaware Toons to drain Ichor from. Sure, Batyr technically doesn't NEED to feed on Ichor to survive (he can just survive on regular food and water), but it's better for him if he does, since he becomes powerless, lethargic, and even a bit violent without it.
Due to the social isolation that Batyr suffered from, Batyr often takes to posing as something less scary and powerful than he really is. The manner he pulls this off is that he's able to transform into whatever other Toons he's drank Ichor from, gaining their abilities in the process. Among his most popular disguises was Boxten, since he was already introverted and not all that noteworthy. While he usually just uses these glamours in order to blend in with other Toons and avoid grabbing attention, he's also known to use them to pull pranks and assist in everyday tasks (for example, he could turn into Tisha to help with cleaning, or turn into Goob to grab objects that are far away from him).
Some notes about Batyr's active ability, Glamour, since it really does require plenty of explanation:
Note 1: When Batyr uses Glamour and transforms into a Toon with an active ability, the new active ability will be allocated to the F key, while Glamour will become allocated to the R key. If Batyr turns into a Toon without an active ability, Glamour will still be allocated to the F key.
Note 2: If Batyr transforms into a Main Toon, he keeps his 3 hearts of health rather than going down to 2 hearts.
Note 3: While transformed, Batyr will copy the extraction finishing, active ability, and descending to next floor quotes of the Toon he's turned into, but will keep his Toon interaction quotes. However, some additional Toon interactions can occur based on what character Batyr is turned into.
Note 4: If Batyr turns into a Toon that's currently wearing a skin, he will gain the skin of that Toon as well.
Note 5: Unlike other forms of damage, the "take 2 hearts of damage and you turn back to Batyr" rule doesn't apply when using the "Sharing is Caring" or "Baked with Care!" active abilities. This is because how much damage you have to take to turn back to normal is monitored by a variable separate from Batyr's health. Restoring Hearts does not restore any value to this variable as well.
Note 6: If the Toon that Batyr's transformed into is killed, Batyr doesn't instantly lose his form, although he won't be able to change back into the form of that Toon if he takes 2 hearts of damage or uses Glamour again.
Note 7: If Batyr tries to transform into Batyr (Such as when there is more than 1 Batyr in your party), Glamour will do nothing. This even applies if the Batyr in question is already transformed into another Toon.
Note 8: Glamour does provide a loophole regarding an aspect of Sprout's active ability, Baked Sweets. The cost of using Baked Sweets is supposed to go up by 50 Tapes for every Sprout alive in your party, but since Batyr isn't classified as being the Toon he's transformed into, the cost of Baked Sweets doesn't increase if Batyr transforms into Sprout, meaning that you can have multiple Toons who can heal with Baked Sweets without increasing its cost.
And here's some more Trivia:
Some Toons, such as Boxten, Cosmo, and Dazzle suspect that Batyr has bad intentions, but in reality, Batyr's not malevolent, just misunderstood.
Batyr can float slightly off the ground, which he uses in his running animation.
Batyr isn't outright allergic to sunlight, but he's easily blinded by the sun's light unless he wears sunglasses to block out the harmful rays. Thankfully, in the case that Batyr is blinded by the sun, his retinas can grow back with relative ease.
In the Dandy's World cartoon lore, Batyr is among one of the oldest Toons, as he's considered to be at least a century older than Rodger.
Batyr loves coffee, and his favorite foods are pumpkins and watermelons.
Despite his formal appearance, Batyr sounds like he's from Texas.
Batyr has a theatrical side, and enjoys being on stage. He especially can't resist doing a silly cape swish, and he also tends to hide his face with his cape when he's embarrassed or is plotting something.
Batyr loves visiting Essa's coffeeshop during the mornings and evenings for coffee.
Out of the main Toons, Batyr's most positive relationships are with Astro and Shelly. Batyr likes Astro since the moon is easier on his eyes, and also Astro's abilities can sometimes help Batyr get through days when he needs to do something during the daytime. As for Shelly, on the other hand, Batyr finds Shelly's nerdiness to be a turn-on and loved to converse about prehistory with her, but Shelly never saw Batyr as anything more than a friend, much to his dismay.
Connie was among Batyr's first friendships upon being welcomed into the Gardenview Center, and their friendship has remained especially strong. They were quick to bond because the two could relate to many things and dealt with similar problems due to being undead creatures of the night. Connie, in particular, loves Batyr's long, fluffy hair, and sometimes turns to him for hairstyling tips. Speaking of Batyr's hair, it's meant to resemble a pair of bird wings, and the topmost "wings" sometimes point up like horns when Batyr gets goosebumps or feels angry.
Strangely, Batyr gets along with Flutter, in spite of Flutter being a creature that prefers the day while Batyr prefers the night.
Goob and Scraps are also among Batyr's stronger friendships. Goob just likes Batyr anyways because Batyr does enjoy hugs, and Scraps finds Batyr's fangs gorgeous.
Glisten once thought that Batyr's existence was a hoax because he couldn't see him. Turns out Glisten couldn't see Batyr because he was a mirror, and vampires like Batyr are invisible to mirrors (although Batyr can make himself visible with a bit of effort). Batyr's lack of visibility has sometimes caused Glisten to catch on to Batyr's pranks and glamours when nobody else did, funny enough. As Glisten and Batyr have gotten to know each other better, they do sometimes compete on stage as friendly rivals.
While Toodles tries to act brave around Batyr, she's secretly afraid of him. Toodles wasn't aware of Batyr's existence for a quite a while until she unknowingly met Batyr while he was disguised as Rodger. As for Rodger's own opinion of Batyr, the two get along, enjoying each other's knowledge and attention to detail.
Batyr is as clean as a cockroach... meaning he tends to spend significant amounts of his day grooming himself and making sure there's no gore on his clothes.
Dandy never liked Batyr. Why? Because Batyr always stays in the shadows while a flower like Dandy thrives in the day. However, Batyr's hunger for Ichor made him a useful test subject for the Ichor Operation...
(Here's his transparent art as well hehe)
11 notes
·
View notes
Text
Tips for Refinishing Hardwood Flooring in Mundelein
Refinishing hardwood flooring is one of the most effective ways to rejuvenate your home’s interior, enhance property value, and extend the life of your investment. In Mundelein, where changing seasons can take a toll on hardwood surfaces, regular refinishing becomes especially essential. Whether you're aiming to restore a weathered floor or simply give your home a fresh new look, the right techniques and guidance can make all the difference.

Why Refinishing Is Necessary for Hardwood Floors in Mundelein
Over time, hardwood flooring begins to show signs of wear: scratches, fading, dullness, and stains are all common indicators that it’s time for a refinish. In Mundelein, the mix of cold winters and humid summers causes natural expansion and contraction in wood, accelerating surface damage.
Refinishing helps:
Eliminate surface imperfections
Restore natural color and grain
Enhance protective finishes
Increase home value and visual appeal
This process also allows homeowners to change the stain color if they desire a new design direction.
Evaluate If Your Floor Needs Refinishing or Replacing
Before committing to a refinishing project, assess whether your floor is suitable for sanding and sealing.
Signs It's Time to Refinish
Surface-level scratches and scuffs
Fading or discoloration from sunlight
Minor water stains
Dullness even after cleaning
Signs It May Need Replacement
Deep gouges that penetrate the wood
Warped or cupped boards
Severe water damage
Very thin floorboards (after multiple previous refinishings)
Consulting with the best hardwood flooring contractor near Mundelein can help determine whether refinishing or replacement is the better option.
Types of Refinishing: Sanding vs. Screening
Not all refinishing jobs require full sanding. Understanding the type of refinishing your floor needs is key to preserving the wood’s integrity.
1. Sanding and Refinishing
This is a deep restoration process. It involves sanding down to bare wood, re-staining (if desired), and applying several layers of protective finish.
Ideal when:
There are deep scratches or dents
You want to change the stain color
The existing finish is heavily worn
2. Screening and Recoating
Also called buff and coat, this method involves light abrasion of the existing finish before applying a new topcoat.
Ideal when:
The floor is in good condition overall
You want to refresh sheen or luster
You do not want to change the color
Step-by-Step Hardwood Floor Refinishing Process
1. Preparation
Clear the room of all furniture and rugs
Clean the floor thoroughly to remove dust, wax, and debris
Repair any loose boards or protruding nails
2. Sanding
Use a drum sander for main surfaces and an edger for borders
Progress through sanding grits: typically 36, 60, and 100
Ensure even sanding to avoid dips and waves
3. Dust Removal
Vacuum meticulously
Use tack cloths or microfiber mops to capture remaining dust
4. Staining (Optional)
Choose a stain that complements your interior design
Apply evenly with rags or brushes and wipe off excess
5. Finishing
Apply at least 2–3 coats of polyurethane or water-based finish
Allow proper drying time between coats
Lightly buff between coats for smoothness
Best Finishes for Hardwood Floors in Mundelein Homes
Oil-Based Polyurethane
Rich, amber tone
Durable and water-resistant
Longer drying time but stronger protection
Water-Based Polyurethane
Clear, non-yellowing finish
Quick drying and low odor
Eco-friendly and suitable for homes with children or pets
Hardwax Oil Finishes
Penetrates wood for a natural feel
Easily repairable without full sanding
Requires more frequent maintenance

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Refinishing
Skipping dust removal, which can trap particles under the finish
Inconsistent sanding, leading to uneven absorption of stain
Rushing the drying process, which compromises durability
Applying thick coats, resulting in bubbles or streaks
DIY without proper tools, risking long-term damage
To ensure a flawless result, it’s wise to work with a skilled professional, especially for larger or high-traffic areas.
Hiring the Best Hardwood Flooring Contractor Near Mundelein
The success of your refinishing project largely depends on who you hire. A certified and experienced contractor will ensure that your floors are restored to their original elegance—safely, quickly, and with expert craftsmanship.
Look for these qualities:
Local experience with hardwood flooring in Mundelein homes
Verified references and portfolio of completed projects
Clear, detailed estimates
Knowledge of eco-friendly finishes and sustainable practices
Proper licensing and insurance
Working with the best hardwood flooring contractor near Mundelein guarantees not just quality work, but also valuable advice on maintaining your floors for years to come.
Aftercare: Maintaining Refinished Hardwood Floors
Once your floor has been refinished, proper care is essential:
Wait 24–48 hours before walking on the floor, and up to 7 days before placing furniture
Use felt pads under all furniture
Clean with pH-neutral hardwood floor cleaner
Avoid high heels, heavy impacts, or moisture exposure
Maintain stable indoor humidity to prevent gapping or warping
Following these tips ensures your newly refinished floor remains a beautiful centerpiece of your home.
Conclusion: Rejuvenate Your Home with Expert Refinishing
Refinishing your hardwood floors is a cost-effective way to restore their original beauty, increase home value, and prolong their life. With Mundelein’s seasonal challenges, it’s crucial to follow the right refinishing techniques and partner with skilled professionals.
For guaranteed results and long-lasting value, consult the best hardwood flooring contractor near Mundelein. Their craftsmanship and local knowledge will ensure your floors are refinished to perfection.
youtube
#Tips for Refinishing Hardwood Flooring in Mundelein#best hardwood flooring contractor#best hardwood flooring#hardwood#flooring#contractor#Mundelein#hardwood flooring Mundelein#hardwood flooring installers near Mundelein#best hardwood flooring company near Mundelein#best hardwood flooring contractor near Mundelein#Youtube
2 notes
·
View notes
Text
Tile Floor Cleaning and Sealing: Common Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Sealer

Tile floors are a beautiful and durable choice for homes and businesses, offering timeless appeal and practicality. When properly maintained, they can last for many years, providing an elegant finish to any space. However, keeping tile floors looking their best requires more than just regular cleaning. The key to preserving the shine, durability, and cleanliness of tile floors lies in proper tile floor cleaning and sealing. Unfortunately, there are several common mistakes that can damage both the tiles and the protective sealant, which is essential for maintaining their longevity.
This article will highlight these mistakes and offer guidance on how to avoid them, ensuring that tile floors continue to shine for years to come.
1. Using Harsh Chemicals
One of the most common mistakes in tile floor cleaning and sealing is the use of harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Many commercial floor cleaners contain ingredients that can strip or break down the protective sealer applied to tile floors. These cleaners, which often include ammonia or acidic substances, can not only damage the sealer but also leave the tiles susceptible to staining, discoloration, or etching.
Instead of these abrasive solutions, it is recommended to use a pH-neutral cleaner designed specifically for tile floors. Products like Garcia Scrub are excellent alternatives. Garcia Scrub is formulated to clean tiles gently yet effectively, removing dirt, grime, and buildup without compromising the protective sealer. By opting for the right cleaning products, property owners can ensure that their tiles remain beautiful and the sealer remains intact.
2. Not Rinsing Properly After Cleaning
A common error in tile floor cleaning and sealing is neglecting to rinse the floor after cleaning. Leaving cleaning solutions or residue behind can damage the floor’s finish and compromise the integrity of the sealer. The residue may attract more dirt, leaving tiles looking dull or streaky.
To avoid this issue, always rinse the floor thoroughly after cleaning, especially if using a solution with any form of cleaner. A clean mop or cloth should be used to wipe away any lingering solution, ensuring the tiles are completely free of residue. Proper rinsing ensures that the floor remains shiny and that the sealer continues to provide the necessary protection.
3. Skipping the Sealing Process
Tile floors, particularly those made of porous materials like natural stone, require sealing to maintain their appearance and protect against stains and moisture. A common mistake in tile floor cleaning and sealing is skipping the sealing process altogether or delaying it. Without a protective sealant, tile floors are more vulnerable to damage, and spills and stains can penetrate the surface, leading to long-term discoloration.
It is crucial to seal the tiles after installation and regularly reapply the sealer as recommended by the manufacturer. Regular sealing creates a protective barrier on the surface that repels dirt, grime, and liquids, making it easier to clean and maintain the floor. It also helps to extend the life of the tiles and prevents damage from everyday wear and tear.
4. Using the Wrong Mop or Cleaning Tools
Using the wrong cleaning tools, such as abrasive scrubbing brushes or harsh mop heads, is another mistake that can ruin the sealer of tile floors. Scrubbing with a rough material can scratch the surface of the tile, and over time, these scratches may wear away the protective sealer, leaving the tiles vulnerable to stains and damage.
To maintain the integrity of both the tiles and the sealer, it is best to use soft mops, microfiber cloths, or soft-bristled brushes. These tools are gentle on the tiles and effective in removing dirt without causing damage. For regular maintenance, microfiber mops are ideal because they can trap dust and debris without scratching the surface.
5. Allowing Excess Water to Sit on the Floor
Water is one of the most significant threats to the longevity of tile floors and their sealer. Allowing excess water to pool on the floor for extended periods can seep into the grout and cause discoloration or damage to the tile and the sealer. Prolonged exposure to moisture can also cause the grout to deteriorate, leading to uneven tiles or the need for costly repairs.
When mopping or cleaning, it is important to avoid oversaturating the floor. A damp mop should be used rather than a soaking wet one, and any standing water should be wiped up immediately. This will prevent water from seeping into the seams or corners and damaging both the tile and the protective sealer.
6. Neglecting to Reapply Sealer
Tile floor sealers are not permanent, and over time, they lose their effectiveness due to wear and tear, cleaning, and exposure to elements. Failing to reapply the sealer as part of regular maintenance is a mistake that can result in compromised protection for the tiles.
It is recommended to reapply the sealer as often as necessary, depending on the amount of foot traffic and the type of tile. For most residential floors, sealing every one to three years is sufficient. Property owners should follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer for reapplication to ensure the sealer is applied evenly and effectively. Reapplying the sealer not only preserves the tile’s appearance but also extends the floor’s lifespan.
7. Ignoring Grout Maintenance
Grout is a key component of tile floors that often gets overlooked in tile floor cleaning and sealing routines. Grout lines are porous and can absorb moisture, dirt, and stains, which can affect the overall appearance of the floor. When grout becomes dirty or discolored, it can detract from the beauty of the entire floor, even if the tiles themselves are clean.
To prevent grout buildup, it is important to clean grout lines regularly with an appropriate cleaner. Products like Garcia Scrub can be effective for this purpose, as they are designed to clean both tiles and grout without damaging the surface. It is also important to consider applying a grout sealer to protect the grout from stains and moisture. A grout sealer will prevent dirt and liquids from penetrating the porous surface, making it easier to clean and maintain the grout.
8. Not Following Manufacturer Instructions
Each type of tile and sealer comes with its own set of care and maintenance instructions, which should always be followed carefully. Many mistakes in tile floor cleaning and sealing are the result of not adhering to the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning products, sealing methods, or reapplication schedules.
To avoid errors, property owners should always read and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for their specific tile and sealer. This includes using the right cleaning solutions, following proper cleaning techniques, and applying sealer at the right intervals. By doing so, tile floors can remain in excellent condition, and the sealer will continue to provide long-term protection.
Maintaining tile floors requires proper care and attention to detail. By avoiding common mistakes, such as using harsh chemicals, neglecting to rinse after cleaning, or failing to apply a protective sealer, property owners can ensure that their tile floors remain in excellent condition for years. Using the right products like Garcia Scrub and following a regular maintenance schedule for cleaning and sealing will help preserve the beauty and integrity of tile floors. Ultimately, with the right practices in place, tile floors can continue to shine while maintaining their durability and longevity.
#floor tiles#floor cleaning#tile cleaning#floor and tile#Tile Floor Cleaning and Sealing#garcia scrub#cleaning#house cleaning#cleaning services#cleaning tips
2 notes
·
View notes
Text
Sinai pearl (Teresita) Egyptian limestone
Sinai Pearl Egyptian Limestone: A Symbol of Elegance and Durability
When it comes to natural stone that combines beauty, durability, and versatility, Sinai Pearl Egyptian limestone stands out as a leading choice. Known for its creamy beige tones and subtle textures, this limestone variety is a favorite among architects and designers for its ability to enhance both indoor and outdoor spaces. Whether you are considering Egyptian limestone paving, tiles, or slabs, Sinai Pearl offers unmatched quality and timeless appeal.
What Makes Sinai Pearl Egyptian Limestone Unique?
1. Aesthetic Appeal
Sinai Pearl limestone features a light beige color with delicate patterns, making it a versatile choice for various design styles, from classic to contemporary.
2. Durability
As a premium variety of Egyptian limestone, Sinai Pearl is known for its strength and resistance to wear, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
3. Versatility
This limestone can be used in a wide range of applications, including Egyptian limestone paving, wall cladding, countertops, and decorative elements.
4. Sustainable Choice
Quarried from Egypt, Sinai Pearl is an environmentally friendly option that adds a natural touch to your spaces.
Applications of Sinai Pearl Egyptian Limestone
1. Egyptian Limestone Paving
Sinai Pearl is a popular choice for Egyptian stone paving, thanks to its slip-resistant texture and ability to withstand outdoor conditions. Whether for driveways, patios, or garden paths, this limestone ensures durability without compromising on aesthetics.
2. Egyptian Limestone Tiles
For indoor flooring, Sinai Pearl limestone tiles offer a seamless and luxurious finish. The neutral tones make them ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces.
3. Egyptian Limestone Slabs
Larger Egyptian limestone slabs are perfect for countertops, staircases, and expansive flooring, creating a clean and elegant look.
4. Sinai Pearl Egyptian Limestone Paving
Sinai Pearl's soft tones and durable nature make it an excellent choice for outdoor paving projects. Its ability to endure varying weather conditions ensures that your outdoor spaces remain beautiful and functional for years.
Why Choose Sinai Pearl Egyptian Limestone?
Timeless Beauty: The beige tones of Sinai Pearl complement any design palette.
Affordability: Compared to other natural stones, the Egyptian limestone price for Sinai Pearl is competitive, making it accessible for various budgets.
Durability: Its robust structure ensures longevity, even in demanding applications.
Ease of Maintenance: Regular cleaning and occasional sealing are all that’s needed to maintain its beauty.
Sinai Pearl vs. Other Egyptian Beige Limestone Options
Sinai Pearl stands out for its fine grain, soft beige tones, and versatile applications. While other Egyptian beige limestone options may have similar qualities, Sinai Pearl is particularly favored for its uniform texture and ease of customization for tiles, slabs, and paving.
How to Maintain Sinai Pearl Limestone
To keep Sinai Pearl limestone looking pristine:
Clean Regularly: Sweep and mop surfaces to remove dust and debris.
Use pH-Neutral Cleaners: Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaning agents that can damage the surface.
Seal the Stone: Applying a high-quality sealant protects against stains and moisture.
Inspect and Repair: Address any cracks or chips promptly to maintain the stone's integrity.
The Egyptian Limestone Price Advantage
One of the key reasons behind the popularity of Sinai Pearl limestone is its affordability. The Egyptian limestone price for Sinai Pearl is budget-friendly compared to other natural stones, making it an excellent choice for both large-scale and small-scale projects.
Conclusion
Sinai Pearl Egyptian limestone is a timeless and versatile stone that adds elegance to any space. Whether you are planning a project with Egyptian limestone paving, tiles, or slabs, Sinai Pearl offers unmatched quality and value. Its creamy beige tones, durability, and affordability make it a preferred choice for homeowners, architects, and designers alike.
Elevate your spaces with the natural beauty of Sinai Pearl limestone—a testament to the enduring charm of Egyptian stone paving and craftsmanship.

#marbleegypt#egyptiangranite#egyptiangranitetypes#granitefromegypt#egyptiangranitefactory#kerbstones#greyelsherka#granite#crazypaving#TFMForMarblaandGranite#granitecountertopsegypt#whitegraniteegypt#landscapedesign
4 notes
·
View notes
Text
Enhance Your Home Décor with Jute Runner Rugs A Sustainable and Stylish Choice
When it comes to home décor, finding the perfect balance between style, durability, and sustainability is key. Jute runner rugs have emerged as a popular choice for homeowners seeking an eco-friendly option without compromising on aesthetics. These natural fiber rugs add a rustic charm to any space, from entryways to hallways, living rooms, and kitchens. With their unique texture and earth-toned color palette, jute runner rugs are versatile and complement a wide range of interior designs. In this article, we’ll explore the many benefits of incorporating jute runner rugs into your home and how they can enhance your living space.
Why Choose Jute Runner Rugs?
Jute runner rugs are made from the fibers of the jute plant, which is primarily grown in regions with warm, humid climates such as India and Bangladesh. Jute is one of the most sustainable materials available due to its minimal environmental impact. The jute plant requires little water and is biodegradable, making it an eco-friendly option for those who are mindful of their carbon footprint.
Here are some reasons why jute runner rugs are becoming a preferred choice:
Durability: Jute is naturally strong and resilient, making it an ideal material for high-traffic areas like hallways and entryways. With proper care, these rugs can last for many years, providing long-term value for your home.
Natural Aesthetic: The earthy tones and texture of jute runner rugs bring a warm and welcoming atmosphere to any room. Whether you’re looking for a rustic, bohemian, or coastal look, these rugs can easily fit into a variety of design schemes.
Affordable and Sustainable: Compared to synthetic rugs, jute runner rugs are often more affordable, making them an excellent choice for homeowners on a budget. Furthermore, they are a sustainable option that helps reduce your environmental impact.
Hypoallergenic Properties: Because jute is a natural fiber, it doesn’t trap dust or allergens as synthetic materials can. This makes jute runner rugs a great choice for those with allergies or respiratory sensitivities.
Versatility: Whether you’re placing them in your kitchen, hallway, or entryway, jute runner rugs add a touch of texture and style to narrow spaces. They can also be layered with other rugs to create a cozy and welcoming ambiance.
For more products - https://divinehandicrafts.co.uk/
Care and Maintenance of Jute Runner Rugs
To ensure that your jute runner rug lasts for many years, proper care and maintenance are essential. Jute rugs are naturally resistant to dirt, but regular cleaning will help them retain their beauty. Here are some helpful tips:
Vacuum regularly: Vacuum your jute runner rug at least once a week to remove dust and debris. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to prevent damaging the fibers.
Spot clean spills immediately: If a spill occurs, blot the area with a clean, dry cloth to absorb the liquid. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can cause the fibers to fray.
Rotate your rug: To ensure even wear, rotate your jute runner rug regularly, especially if it's placed in a high-traffic area.
Avoid direct sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the colors of your jute runner rug to fade. Try to place your rug in areas where it’s not exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.
The Benefits of Jute Runner Rugs in Different Spaces
Jute runner rugs can elevate the look and feel of several areas in your home. Here’s how they can enhance different spaces:
Entryways and Hallways: The narrow dimensions of jute runner rugs make them perfect for long, narrow spaces like entryways and hallways. They add a cozy and inviting feel while protecting your floors from dirt and wear.
Kitchens: In the kitchen, jute runner rugs add texture and warmth to hard surfaces like tile or wood. They also provide extra comfort when standing for long periods, making cooking a more pleasant experience.
Living Rooms: Place a jute runner rug under a coffee table or in front of a seating area to anchor the space and bring a touch of natural charm to your living room décor.
Why Jute Runner Rugs are a Must-Have for Your Home
Incorporating jute runner rugs into your home offers numerous benefits, from their durability and sustainability to their natural aesthetic and versatility. Whether you’re looking to enhance your entryway, hallway, or living room, these rugs provide an eco-friendly solution that complements various interior styles.
For those seeking the best quality jute runner rugs, look no further than Divine Handicrafts .Known for their exquisite craftsmanship and commitment to sustainability, Divine Handicrafts offers a wide range of beautifully woven jute runner rugs that will elevate any space in your home.
1 note
·
View note
Text
Comprehensive Guide on Commercial Floor Drain Installations
A good drainage system is one of the key components guaranteeing the seamless running of a commercial property. Often disregarded but still vital for building upkeep, commercial floor drain installation helps to prevent water damage, floods, and debris accumulation. Particularly for individuals in Ontario, Canada, this tutorial will address the value of floor drains, the installation process, and selecting the correct drainage system for your business building.
Commercial Floor Drains: Their Value
In places where water buildup is regular, floor drains are necessary. These systems are usually placed in commercial kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, or any area with significant moisture levels. Standing water can easily cause structural damage, bad smells, and even health risks from mould and mildew without these drains. Furthermore, Ontario companies guarantee adherence to local construction requirements calling for effective drainage in business buildings.
Through simple wastewater drainage from cleaning operations, floor drains also contribute to keeping cleanliness. Having a good drainage system helps to avoid water accumulation and lowers the risk of slips and falls, whether it comes to wiping floors, washing machines, or dishwashing stations.
Important Factors Affecting the Installation of Commercial Floor Drains
Several elements have to be taken into account while designing a commercial floor drain installation to guarantee the efficiency of the system:
1. Type of drainage mechanism
The kind of business or facility you run will determine the kind of floor drain you install. Standard floor drains, used generally in commercial environments where the water flow is constant and modest, are the most often occurring forms of floor drains.
• Trench drains are perfect for bigger areas with plenty of foot activity, such as factories or warehouses.
• Point Drains are designed at certain sites where water often gathers.
Usually used in bigger commercial kitchens or industrial environments, linear drains combine point and trench drains.
Every kind has benefits; the ideal choice for your building will depend on consulting a professional floor drain installation Ontario firm.
2. Drain Location
The location of the drains is equally crucial to the kind you decide upon. Inappropriate water flow resulting from poorly positioned drains might create standing or blockage of the pipes. Floor drains should be positioned at the lowest points in many commercial environments. Correct slope and placement guarantee straight water flow into the drainage system, free from pooling.
3. Drain's Dimensions and Capacity
Making sure the drains' capacity and size fit the volume of water they will manage is vital. For instance, a busy commercial kitchen will need a larger capacity floor drain than a tiny office bathroom. Either extreme, overestimating or underestimating the size, could cause drainage problems. To be sure the drain's specs fit the volume of wastewater generated in your building, it is advisable to speak with a qualified drainage company.
4. Standard of Content
Particularly in busy regions, floor drains have to be built from premium materials to resist wear and strain. Often utilized for their durability and corrosion resistance are materials including PVC, cast iron, and stainless steel. Should your company deal with food waste or strong chemicals, be sure the chosen materials can withstand those components.
5. Following Building Codes
Every Ontario town has particular plumbing rules that commercial property owners have to follow to guarantee correct floor drain installation of plumbing systems. See a licensed plumber who is knowledgeable about the rules in your area before starting installation.
Floor Drain Installation: Procedures
Particularly in an old structure, installing a business floor drain system can be challenging. The installation method is roughly broken out here:
First steps: design and planning
The area will first be surveyed by a local qualified plumber or contractor to ascertain the ideal floor drain position. They will take into account things like floor slope, the kind of drainage system needed, and any local building codes.
Second stage: excavation
The floor drain space has to be excavated once the design is authorized. This stage is absolutely important, particularly in older buildings with current flooring, since it could call for the removal of tiles or concrete.
Third step: laying drain pipes.
The contractor will lay down the drain pipes meant to convey effluent away from the construction after excavation. This stage needs exact calculations to provide appropriate flow and prevent clogs.
Step 4: Covering the drains
The floor drains themselves, and their coverings are set once the drainage pipes are in place. The coverings are meant to let water run unhindered and stop trash from jamming the system. Drain covers are made of several materials, including stainless steel, which is perfect for businesses because of its durability and simplicity of maintenance.
Fifth Step: Testing and Inspection
At last, an inspection is carried out to guarantee the system is operating as it should. Water is guided to the drains to confirm that the drainage system efficiently sends water away from the structure. Local plumbing regulations must be followed during the installation, so an inspection could be necessary before formal approval of the system.
Selecting an Installable Professional Service
Ensuring the system runs effectively depends on appointing a qualified professional to manage floor drain installation. Here are some pointers on selecting the correct business for employment:
Search for a contractor with a background in plumbing and commercial drainage systems. They should be conversant with the particular requirements of your company and Ontario's building regulations.
Examining consumer reviews and comments will help you to be sure the business has a good name for dependable installations and exceptional service.
Make sure the business possesses the required licenses and certificates to carry out Ontario plumbing and drainage installations (nf). This assures that the installation will satisfy all local rules and guidelines.
Reputable contractors will provide a warranty on their work, therefore guaranteeing quick resolution of any problems that develop following installation.
Ultimately
Commercial floor drains are not only a functional need in Ontario; they are also an essential component of the infrastructure of your company. From guaranteeing compliance with construction requirements to preventing water damage, floor drains are vital for the safe and effective running of any business facility. If you require commercial floor drain installation, be sure to work with a qualified professional who can evaluate the requirements of your space, install a suitable system, and provide long-term dependability.
1 note
·
View note
Text

What is main things to clean a kitchen?
Keeping your kitchen clean is essential for maintaining a healthy and pleasant cooking environment. Regular cleaning not only ensures that your kitchen remains hygienic but also helps prevent the buildup of grime, which can lead to unpleasant odors and potential health hazards. To efficiently clean your kitchen, it's important to focus on several key areas and use the right tools and techniques. This guide will walk you through the main tasks involved in kitchen cleaning, offering tips and answering common questions to help you maintain a spotless kitchen.
What is the Necessary Things You Need In The Kitchen
Counters and Surfaces: Start by clearing off all countertops, including any small appliances, utensils, and food items. Use a kitchen cleaner or a mix of mild soap and water to wipe down surfaces. Pay attention to areas around the sink, stove, and backsplash where spills and splatters can accumulate.
Sink: The sink often harbors bacteria and food particles. Scrub the sink with a non-abrasive cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water. For a sparkling finish, you can also use a solution of vinegar and water. Don’t forget to clean the faucet and handles, as these are frequently touched areas.
Stovetop: Remove burner grates and knobs if you have a gas stove. Soak them in soapy water and scrub away any grease or residue. For electric stoves, wipe down the surface with a suitable cleaner, ensuring you don’t use excessive moisture that could damage electrical components.
Oven: Clean the interior of the oven periodically to avoid the buildup of burnt food and grease. Use an oven cleaner or a homemade paste of baking soda and water. For self-cleaning ovens, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to activate the cleaning cycle.
Refrigerator: Empty the refrigerator and discard any expired or unwanted food. Wipe down shelves and drawers with a mixture of water and mild detergent. Clean the exterior and handles with an all-purpose cleaner.
Flooring: Sweep or vacuum the kitchen floor to remove crumbs and debris. Mop the floor using a cleaner suitable for your flooring type (tile, laminate, etc.). Make sure to rinse the mop frequently to avoid spreading dirt around.
Garbage and Recycling: Regularly empty the trash and recycling bins to prevent odors and bacterial growth. Clean the bins themselves with soap and water to remove any residual grime.
Small Appliances: Wipe down small appliances like toasters, microwaves, and coffee makers. For appliances with removable parts, such as toaster trays or microwave turntables, wash them separately.
Frequently Asked Question
How often should I clean my kitchen?
It’s best to do a quick clean daily—wipe down surfaces, wash dishes, and sweep the floor. A more thorough cleaning should be done weekly, including scrubbing the sink, stovetop, and refrigerator. Monthly or quarterly, address deep cleaning tasks like oven cleaning and organizing cabinets.
What’s the best way to clean greasy kitchen cabinets?
To clean greasy cabinets, use a mixture of warm water and dish soap. For stubborn grease, add a bit of baking soda to the solution. Apply with a soft cloth or sponge, and wipe with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue.
How do I get rid of odors in my garbage disposal?
To eliminate odors, grind up lemon peels or ice cubes in the disposal. You can also use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, letting it sit for a few minutes before running water through the disposal.
Can I use bleach to clean my kitchen?
While bleach is effective for disinfecting, it’s often too harsh for regular kitchen cleaning. Use it sparingly and always dilute it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For routine cleaning, stick to milder cleaners to avoid damaging surfaces.
What’s the best way to clean stainless steel appliances?
To clean stainless steel appliances, use a dedicated stainless steel cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar. Wipe in the direction of the grain and dry with a soft cloth to avoid streaks and water spots.
Conclusion
A clean kitchen is the cornerstone of a healthy and enjoyable cooking experience. By regularly addressing key areas such as countertops, sinks, stovetops, and floors, and utilizing the right cleaning tools and techniques, you can maintain a space that is not only visually appealing but also hygienic. Remember that consistency is key—daily tidying, weekly deep cleaning, and periodic maintenance will keep your kitchen in top shape. By incorporating these practices into your routine and addressing common questions and concerns, you'll ensure that your kitchen remains a safe, efficient, and pleasant place to prepare meals. Happy cleaning!
2 notes
·
View notes
Text
What Material Do You Use for a Screened-In Porch?
So, you're thinking about adding a screened-in porch to your home? Great choice. It's like having the best of both worlds—a cozy outdoor space without the bugs, debris, or unpredictable weather ruining your relaxation. But before you jump in, you’ve got a big decision to make: What materials should you use?
The materials you choose will affect everything—durability, maintenance, cost, and even how much fresh air flows through. Whether you're a homeowner planning a simple upgrade, a contractor looking for the best materials for a client, or a property manager trying to enhance a rental, this guide has you covered.
Frame It Right: What’s Holding Up Your Porch?
The frame is the backbone of your screened-in porch. Pick the right material, and your porch will stand strong for years. Pick the wrong one, and you might be dealing with warping, rust, or frequent repairs.
Here are the most common framing options:
Aluminum: Lightweight, rust-resistant, and low-maintenance. Perfect for homeowners who want a hassle-free porch that can handle South Bend’s humidity and seasonal changes.
Wood: Classic and warm, but requires regular sealing and staining to avoid rot and insect damage. Cedar and pressure-treated pine are solid choices if you’re set on that rustic, natural look.
Vinyl: A durable, low-maintenance option that won’t rot or warp like wood. It comes in different colors, making it easy to match your home’s aesthetic.
Steel: Strong and sturdy, but it can rust over time if not properly treated. Not the most common choice for screened porches, but some heavy-duty structures use it.
The Screen Material: What’s Keeping the Bugs Out?
Now, let’s talk screens—because, honestly, that’s what makes a screened-in porch a screened-in porch. The screen material affects airflow, durability, and visibility.
Fiberglass Screens
The most popular option, and for good reason. Fiberglass is affordable, easy to install, and won’t dent or crease like metal screens. It also provides decent visibility and airflow. But it’s not the most durable—it can tear more easily than metal screens.
Aluminum Screens
Stronger than fiberglass and resistant to sagging, aluminum screens hold up well in areas with a lot of wind or heavy rain. However, they can dent, which might not be ideal if you’ve got kids or pets.
Pet-Resistant Screens
If you’ve got a dog that loves to scratch at doors or a cat that treats screens like climbing walls, regular screens won’t cut it. Pet-resistant screens are made from tougher polyester materials that can withstand paws, claws, and playful attacks.
Solar Screens
Trying to beat the summer heat? Solar screens block UV rays, keeping your porch cooler and protecting furniture from sun damage. They do reduce visibility slightly, but the trade-off is a cooler, more comfortable space.
Stainless Steel Screens
Want something virtually indestructible? Stainless steel screens are highly durable and resistant to corrosion. These are often used in high-end builds or areas with extreme weather.
The Flooring: What’s Under Your Feet?
Your porch floor needs to be weather-resistant, easy to clean, and comfortable. Here’s what people are using:
Pressure-Treated Wood – Traditional and affordable, but it needs regular sealing to prevent moisture damage.
Composite Decking – A mix of wood fibers and plastic, giving you the look of wood with less maintenance.
Concrete – Durable and budget-friendly, but can feel a bit cold underfoot. Staining or stamping can make it more stylish.
Tile – Great for a polished look, but be careful with slippery surfaces when it rains.
Outdoor Carpet – Soft underfoot and adds warmth, but may not last as long in wet conditions.
What About the Roof?
If your porch is fully covered, you’ve got even more choices:
Metal Roofs – Low maintenance and long-lasting, but can be noisy in heavy rain.
Shingles – Matches your home’s existing roof, but requires periodic maintenance.
Polycarbonate Panels – Let in natural light while blocking harmful UV rays.
Additional Features to Consider
Once you’ve nailed down the basic materials, think about the extras that’ll make your screened-in porch even better:
Ceiling fans – Keep air circulating and add a nice breeze on hot days.
Lighting – String lights, recessed lighting, or wall sconces to create ambiance.
Outdoor furniture – Weatherproof materials like teak, aluminum, or resin wicker.
Curtains or shades – Extra privacy and sun protection when needed.
Final Thoughts
The best materials for your screened-in porch depend on your lifestyle, budget, and climate. If you’re in South Bend, you’ll need something that can handle seasonal temperature shifts. Want a low-maintenance setup? Aluminum framing and fiberglass screens might be your best bet. Got pets? Go for pet-resistant screens. Looking for a stylish upgrade? Composite decking and solar screens could be the way to go.
Whatever you choose, a screened-in porch adds value, comfort, and extra living space to your home—so it’s worth getting it right. Need help bringing your vision to life? Screenmobile South Bend can handle the entire process, from material selection to installation.
Ready to Get Started?
Thinking about upgrading your outdoor space? Contact Screenmobile South Bend today for expert advice and professional installation. Your dream screened-in porch is just a call away!
3 notes
·
View notes
Text
FFXIV Write 2024 (Day 3): Tempest
The Cabinet of Curiosity was bustling with energy. Regulars were studying at their tables, murmuring amongst themselves over old tomes. The sound was a constant comfort to Moren while he went about his tasks as head of the library.
He enjoyed hearing them go about their day, lively yet out of sight, while Moren sat in his favored area at the top of the center staircase. It was as peaceful as could be — except for one fascinating and strange elf who really ought to use his indoor voice more.
The Warrior of Darkness, Orion, his dear friend, was speaking loud enough for his voice to reverberate across the library. It seemed Moren had made the error of asking him about his favorite author. It was as if he’d forgotten all about it until just then. And now he was going to share every thought that came to his mind about the author before the memories slipped by him again.
“—it’s called The Tempest,” Orion continued, enunciating the last two words as if he expected Moren to write them down. Which he would have, if he wasn’t looking for a pause in the adventurer’s speech to quiet him down first. "A favoured play that I performed often, to an audience of none—"
A shriek escape Moren as he watched the situation escalated further. The adventurer jumped on top of the table with the ease of a practiced fighter, planting his heavy boots among the stacks of books. Entirely unprompted, and entirely beyond anything Moren was trained to handle.
“Orion, what are you doing?!” Moren hissed, his eyes darting around the table as he watched the adventurer step around the table, deftly avoiding each book and scrap of paper while he continued, “—when the mage conjures up a storm to wreck hus enemies' ship—”
“Get down from the table, you…!” Moren felt a blush spread across his cheeks. Was he truly admonishing this adventurer like he would an unruly child? At least children had the decency to look at him, if he ever raised his voice—which he rarely did.
“Orion, I’m warning you one last time—” He reached forward to grab him, attempting to stop the elf's shameless his act of violence towards library property. To nobody’s surprise, Orion dodged his hand with ease. The blush crept further across Moren’s cheeks at the awkwardness of his efforts.
“Fine, I give up!” He turned away from the table to approach the fence that hugged the area’s perimeter. Orion’s voice continued to drone on, but he could at least pretend not to listen. Surely he’d stop, then. Hopefully.
Moren peered over the edge. To nobody’s surprise, several faces were looking up at him from the lower floors. Whether they looked entertained or disturbed, he could not tell from this distance. He gestured an apology nonetheless.
“And ‘twixt the green sea and the azured vault, set roaring war,” Orion monologued from his makeshift stage, returning Moren’s attention to the center of his current predicament. He twirled across the creaking table, gesturing to emphasise his every word.
With a loud stomp, Orion turned around once more to face Moren, stretching his arm towards his unwilling audience. “To the dread rattling thunder have I given fire!”
Moren could no longer handle his nerves. Nevermind the books falling, these tables weren’t built to support a man’s full weight! “I beg you to stop it with the dramatic soliloquy—”
Shaking his head, Moren moved to clean the books off the table. Better move them out of the way before the man lost his wits entirely and knocked them clean across the Cabinet. Wicked White, if that man were to damage any of the books he worked so hard on, he’d throw the fool over the fence himself!
“The strong-based promontory have I made shake, and by the spurs pluck’d up the pine and cedar…”
His hand was outstretched to pick up the next book, but he stilled when he noticed the cadance in Orion’s words. He spoke in iambic meter. A quality of carefully crafted lyricism, each syllable as important as the next.
His curiosity gained the upper hand as he looked up at the elf. Orion smiled at him. Perhaps it was the angle or the light, but he looked terribly tired, Moren thought to himself.
“But this rough magic I here abjure…” Orion’s breath hitched, though Moren couldn’t tell if it was part of the act or not. A background in theatre, perhaps?
Moren sighed and stepped back to listen properly, trying to listen attentively despite the flush still burning on his face. He’ll have to punish the man later, he decided.
“And, when I have required some heavenly music,—which even now I do—to work mine end upon their senses, that this airy charm is for, I’ll break my staff.” He dropped a silence after those last words. A true silence, Moren noted with a sudden spike in discomfort, realizing that the usual murmur of background noise had quieted entirely.
Orion was, of course, clueless about Moren’s plans. He moved down into a crouch, gesturing for Moren to step closer. Once Moren was within arms-length, he rested a hand on his shoulder.
That certainly didn’t help his flustered state, and Moren cursed himself for failing to keep his cool.
“Bury it certain fathoms in the earth. And deeper than did ever plummet sound—” He leaned forward, resting one hand on Moren’s shoulder while he moved to whisper in Moren’s ear with a dramatic hiss. “I’ll drown my book.”
Before Moren could even process the ending line, Orion hopped off the table. Moren frowned, his mind racing to piece together fragments of an analysis that came to his mind. “You’ll have to write that down for me,” he said, his mind too occupied to consider a punishment for Orion’s misbehavior.
“Wouldn’t you rather have the full play?” his friend replied, sitting himself back down on the table. Moren cringed at the sight. He decided he could take a moment to think of a punishment.
“But of course,” Moren replied. “Such writing—fictional or not—would be invaluable to our collection…” he started, trailing off when he realized that his enthusiasm was misplaced. “Ah. But you’re unable to travel home.”
Orion shrugged dramatically, dropping his hands back in his hands with a loud slap. “I’m sure one day I’ll have the strength to handle the aetheryte trip back home.” He was looking off in another direction.
Such reassurances worked better when you made eye-contact while saying them, Moren thought, a crinkle in his eyebrows giving away his concern. Still, he hummed in agreement, “After you’ve broken your staff, so to speak.”
“Ha,” Orion laughed, perhaps surprised Moren had listened to his monologue at all. “Yeah, I...” His voice trailed off. It seemed like he was trying to find a retort, but failed to come up with anything. He simply lowered his head and nodded, a smile on his face that didn’t quite reach his eyes.
It was a familiar sight. He had a way of looking like a hurt pup when he got caught up in his thoughts, hence why Moren felt so compelled to entertain him with distractions. It seemed to raise his spirits, at least. Enough to make the adventurer visit him from time to time. The more time they spent together, the more it seemed to hurt Moren to see the cracks in his friend’s spirits. He wanted nothing more than to help.
Moren stepped next to Orion and wrapped an arm around him. With his thumb, he rubbed reassuring circles against the elf’s shoulder for a moment, before breaking the silence. “Well, whatever you choose to do…” He leaned in close to the man’s ears, smirking as he saw the pointed ears flinch. “I’m not letting you walk off before you clean that table.” He tapped his hand against the table they were sitting on. “Understood?”
Orion looked at all the footprints he’d left across its surface. He knew Moren’s definition of clean, and that he would gladly inspect Orion’s work with incredible scrutiny. “Right,” he sighed.
“And,” Moren continued in a chipper tone, patting Orion on his back, “You’re also putting all these books back in place,” he added with a smirk, gesturing to various stacks of books scattered across his work area. Those had nothing to do with Orion. That was just pure payback.
He glanced up at the adventurer, watching the horror on his face as he counted up the half-dozen stacks of books. “Oh, come on!”
No dramatic sighs could hide the crinkles around Orion’s eyes when he was grateful for a distraction. He’d better keep his friend occupied with more mundane distractions, before he came up with any more dramatic ones.
#ffxiv#ffxivwrite#ffxivwrite2024#remember when i said i was going to write shorter bits......... i fucking lied#inspired by The Tempest by Shakespeare#ShB Orion loses it in the library#Orion Altano#Moren#FFXIV Moren#ShB Orion#ShB#Shadowbringers#cabinet of curiosity#I haven't given proper thought on how to write Moren I promise I'll do better
3 notes
·
View notes
Text

Conquering the Monsoon: Essential Car Care Tips
The monsoon season in India brings much-needed respite from the scorching heat but also presents challenges for car owners. Here at Mechanical Guru, we've compiled essential car care tips to ensure your vehicle tackles the rainy season with ease.
Exterior Care:
Waxing: A coat of wax creates a protective layer, repelling water and preventing dirt and grime build-up. Regular waxing helps maintain a clean and shiny exterior, minimizing the risk of rust.
Wiper Blades: Ensure your wiper blades are in good condition. Replace worn-out blades that streak or skip, compromising visibility during heavy downpours.
Headlights and Taillights: Check headlights and taillights for proper functioning. Ensure they are clean and free from moisture to maintain optimal visibility in low-light conditions.
Interior Care:
Floor Mats: Invest in good quality floor mats that trap moisture and dirt. Regularly clean and dry the floor mats to prevent the build-up of mildew and unpleasant odors.
Upholstery: For fabric upholstery, consider using a fabric protector to repel water and stains. Leather seats require special care products to prevent cracking and fading due to moisture exposure.
Air Conditioning: During the monsoon, the air conditioning system can become a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Regularly use the AC on a dry day to circulate air and prevent moisture build-up. Consider getting the AC vents cleaned professionally to maintain air quality.
Driving Tips:
Maintain a Safe Following Distance: Increase following distance during rain to allow for more reaction time in slippery conditions.
Avoid Puddles and Flooded Areas: Where possible, avoid driving through deep puddles or flooded areas. The risk of engine damage or getting stuck is high.
Use Headlights in Low Visibility: Even during the day, if visibility is poor due to heavy rain, turn on your headlights to improve your car's visibility to other drivers.
Additional Tips:
Carry an Emergency Kit: An emergency kit should include essentials like a flashlight, jumper cables, a tow rope, a first-aid kit, and non-perishable snacks and water in case of unexpected breakdowns during heavy rain.
Have Your Car Inspected: Before the monsoon arrives, consider getting your car inspected by a professional mechanic. This will identify any potential issues that could worsen during the rainy season.
By following these car care tips and adopting safe driving practices, you can ensure your vehicle navigates the monsoon season smoothly and safely.
instagram
2 notes
·
View notes