#You know those hose sprayer attachments

[crimelcrd]

flicks paper football at the back of his head

He turns slowly before gently putting down the dish he was washing. He sprayed her with water from the sink.

[molsons112000]

I'm sitting down here at rush and grand in Chicago. I'm looking 55 East rush sugar. Is but the building , the side of the building is dirty... So do you know those window?Washing systems for big buildings that have all the glass windows.While those systems can also clean the concrete it can clean any side of a building... So not only the windows they should be cleaning the side of the building as they're going down as well or clean the windows going down and clean the side of the building as you go back up... Or best.I think to clean the side of the building as you're going down and then when you come up clean the windows.... So those units can be in every building like the building.I'm here and then they can move it along the sides of the building and drop down and clean the sides of the building... So they only think about cleaning the windows?But it can clean the total side of the building. And so buildings can be cleaned regularly in cities because all the sut builds up on the sides of the building and it keeps the buildirtier which keeps the air dirtier which also destroys the side of the building...

jobs-amst.com

jobs-amst.com

A Comprehensive Guide to Skyscraper or High Rise ...

Sep 23, 2021 — Squeegee: A window cleaners' best friend, squeegees are used to wipe the dirty water away—and it is key to

So by cleaning the sides of the building like I said when you're going down you clean the side of the building when you go up you clean the windows.. And no the windows shouldn't be dripping down to the windows below them. The reason you start at the top and do.The bottom is because it drips but that should be a thing of the past.... But the point is, you help clean up the city and keep the city.The air clean and you're removing the pollution because you're removing the pollution from the sides of the building.Not only the window and you're preserving the building but you're also cleaning up the atmosphere continuously..

RMI

https://rmi.org › uncovering-the-d...

Uncovering the Deadly Toll of Air Pollution from Buildings

May 5, 2021 — Burning gas, wood, and biomass in buildings now has more negative health effects than burning coal in many states, says

So this can be done in every city around the world.But I also used to clean the side of my sister's house.... And it's the same thing rain washes the Rough off the dirt into the gutter. But these flat roofs in that they need to be cleaned every so often. And so do the tile roughs, and sometimes it is good to clean and condition the roof...

So you can go around and clean shingle roofs and then condition and repair.

DON'T use a pressure washer, which can loosen shingles and seriously damage your roof. DO use a sprayer attached to a garden hose that's filled with equal parts chlorine bleach and water of laundry strength liquid chlorine bleach and water. This is the best way to clean a roof with asphalt shingles.Jan 17, 2023

https://gjkeller.com › dos-and-donts...

Do's and Don'ts of Cleaning Your Roof's Asphalt Shingles

https://www.google.com/search?ie=UTF-8&client=ms-android-comcast-us-rvc3&source=android-browser&q=How+the+clean+and+condition+ruffing+shingles

So after you clean, you can repair any damaged shingles.

If a shingle is simply cracked or torn, you don't have to replace it—just repair it. Start by applying a thick bead of roofing sealant under the crack. Press the shingle down and apply a second bead of sealant on top of the crack. Then spread the sealant with a putty knife.

https://www.thisoldhouse.com › fi...

How to Fix Damaged Roof Shingles - This Old House

So every 5 years you can clean and repair any damaged shingles then rejuvenate the shingles of the roof extending the life of the roofing shingles.

Roof Maxx is a natural oil treatment for asphalt shingle roofs that can extend their lifespan by 15 years if applied every five years. It is an environmentally friendly and affordable alternative to a full roof replacement. Roof Maxx is a safe, easy, and proven way to rejuvenate your roof.Nov 6, 2023

https://africkerroofing.com › blogs

How To Restore Faded Roof Shingles

So you can take this global to everywhere. Even in the farm, community barns and all their stuff has roughs and it needs to be cleaned and repaired and reconditioned. Then you can clean the sides of the structure as well. Then you can repair any damage to the sides of the structure and then you can rejuvenate the material.. So you can do the same to the sides of the structure.... Keeping all the structures beautiful.

So you can't make things that are old beautiful gun and anything that is new.You have a prevented maintenance for the building inside and out, so it keeps the value high.The reason the value drops is because you let the building deteriorate.And then you have to sink a shit load of money but people want to move to another building. So instead of doing your preventive maintenance program, you lose your tenants and then you have to get new tenants where you can be proactive.Keep the building good and then modernize.John Hancock owns a bunch of real estate and my friend in Chicago was running different buildings.And that's what they were doing... They watched trends of new structures coming in and they saw what was coming in the pipeline and they would be proactive with their building and renovate or improve to match the new structures. So tenants didn't want to leave.

Goodreads

https://www.goodreads.com › show

Restoring Old Buildings-Step by Step Showing 1-40 of 40

May 12, 2013 — Foxtower Step One- Clean the junk out! Today was drizzly so a good day to finish clearing the junk out og the old farmhouse.

Missing: sides ‎| Show results with: sides

ULMA Architectural

https://www.ulmaarchitectural.com › ...

How to restore your building without dying in the process.

If you read on, we will explain what steps you should take to successfully carry out a restoration project on your community building, because it's not an ...

GitHub

https://localpreservation.github.io › ...

Maintaining the Exterior of Small and Medium Size Historic ...

Jun 1, 2007 — Clean out putty debris and paint chips from windows using a wet paper towel and dispose of debris prior to repair or repainting

[anny-bizz]

Deck Maintenance: Extending the Lifespan of Your Outdoor Oasis

Decks are more than just wooden platforms attached to the home; they are outdoor sanctuaries, extensions of the living space where one can relax, entertain, and connect with nature. However, to keep the wooden deck looking its best and ensure it stands the test of time, regular maintenance and care are essential.

Here are some valuable tips on how to maintain and care for the deck.

1. Regular Cleaning

The Foundation of Deck Care Cleaning the deck regularly is the foundation of proper maintenance. Just like any other surface, decks collect dirt, dust, and debris over time. Regular cleaning is the first step in maintaining the deck’s appearance and structural integrity. You don’t need fancy equipment—just a broom, hose, and mild detergent.

Here’s how to clean your deck effectively:

Sweep or Use a Leaf Blower: Remove debris and leaves regularly to prevent them from trapping moisture on the deck’s surface.

Pressure Wash with Caution: Pressure washing can be more effective but must be done carefully to avoid damaging the wood. Be cautious not to set it too high, as it can damage the wood

Use a Deck Cleaner: You can use deck cleaners that are specifically designed to remove dirt, stains, and mildew. Must follow the manufacturer’s instructions and rinse thoroughly. Scrub the deck gently with a stiff brush or broom before rinsing thoroughly.’

2. Regular Inspection and Deck Repair:

Routine inspections are vital for catching small issues before they become major problems. Walk around the deck, looking for signs of wear and tear, such as loose or popped nails, warped boards, or splinters. Pay particular attention to areas prone to moisture exposure, like those close to planters or water features. If you notice any problems, address them promptly. Neglecting these small deck repairs in Colorado Springs can lead to more extensive and costly damage in the long run.

Pay attention to the following things during the deck inspections:

Loose or Raised Nails and Screws: Hammer down nails and tighten screws to ensure the deck is secure.

Cracked or Splintered Wood: Replace any cracked or splintered boards to prevent tripping hazards and further damage.

Rotten or Decayed Wood: Rotting wood can compromise the structural integrity of your deck. Replace any rotted boards promptly.

Railings and Balusters: You must check for loose or damaged railings and balusters, ensuring they provide adequate safety.

3. Seal and Protect:

Preserving the Wood Sealing the deck is like giving it a protective shield against the elements. Deck finishes, like sealers or stains, are essential for preserving the wood and enhancing its appearance. They act as a protective barrier against UV rays, moisture, and general wear.

Here’s what you should know:

Choose the Right Product: Select a deck sealer or stain appropriate for the deck’s wood type and the climate in the area. Water-based options are eco-friendly and easy to clean up.

Clean Before Sealing: Ensure the deck is thoroughly cleaned and dry before applying the sealer. A clean surface allows for better adhesion. Sealers are great for hardwoods, while stains work well for softer woods.

Apply Evenly: Use a brush, roller, or sprayer to apply the sealer evenly. Pay attention to corners, edges, and any hard-to-reach areas. Apply the finish according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically with a brush, roller, or sprayer.

Regular Reapplication: Depending on the product, you may need to reapply the sealer every 1–3 years. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the best results. Reapply as needed, usually every couple of years, to maintain the protective layer.

4. Protect Against Sun and Moisture:

Outdoor furniture and planters While the deck is designed to withstand the elements, it’s essential to take precautions to protect it from prolonged exposure to the sun and moisture. Water is one of the biggest enemies of decks. Over time, moisture can lead to rot, warping, and decay. To prevent water damage, ensure proper drainage. Make sure the deck slopes slightly away from the home to encourage rainwater to run off. Clear any debris from the gaps between boards to allow for adequate airflow and drainage. Consider installing a waterproofing membrane or a rubberized under-deck drainage system if the deck is elevated and you want to protect the space beneath it from rain.

These systems can help keep the area dry and prevent water damage.

Use Outdoor Rugs: Placing outdoor rugs or mats in high-traffic areas can help prevent wear and tear on the deck’s surface.

Utilize Planters with Saucers: Elevate planters with saucers to allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup under pots.

Furniture Pads: Add furniture pads to the bottom of chairs and tables to prevent scratches and scuffs on the deck’s surface.

5. Winter Preparations:

Preventing damage to a wooden deck during the winter season in Colorado Springs, where cold temperatures, snow, and ice are common, is essential to prolonging its lifespan and maintaining its appearance. In cold climates, snow and ice can accumulate on the wood deck during the winter in Colorado Springs.

Snow Removal: Shovel or use a snow blower to clear snow promptly after each snowfall to prevent excess weight on the deck.

Ice Melt and Salt Alternatives: Avoid using traditional rock salt, as it can damage the wood. Instead, you can opt for ice melt specifically designed for wooden surfaces.

Storage: Consider storing outdoor furniture and grills indoors during the winter months to protect them from harsh conditions.

By following the above deck maintenance and care tips, you can extend the lifespan of your outdoor oasis from the harsh weather in Colorado Springs, ensuring it remains a beautiful and safe space for years to come. Remember that regular attention and preventive measures are key to preserving the natural beauty and structural integrity of your wooden deck in Colorado Springs.

In conclusion, maintaining and caring for the deck doesn’t have to be a difficult task. Regular cleaning, inspections, protective finishes, and a few preventative measures can go a long way toward preserving the deck’s beauty and functionality. By investing a little time and effort, you can enjoy your outdoor oasis for years to come.

[signaturewindowwashingfl]

Best Pressure Washing Tips

Washing your house is a great way to make it look new and clean, but it's also important to use the right pressure when doing so. Pressure washing involves sending strong jets of water at high speeds out of nozzles attached to hoses which are then aimed at different types of surfaces. This action can remove dirt, mold and mildew from concrete floors, brick walls and decks as well as (if done properly) prevent any damage to those surfaces by removing anything that might be stuck stuck onto them first before applying soap or other cleaning products!

Test the pressure on a surface other than your home or foundation.

Test the pressure on a surface that you don't mind getting dirty, such as an old tarp or a piece of plywood. This will let you see how much water is being sprayed and where it lands on your home. You may find that the pressure needs to be adjusted before washing your actual house, which saves time later on.

Testing the pressure on an area with similar materials as those used on your home can help determine if there will be any damage done by using too much water pressure or using soap with too much detergent in it (which can cause foaming). It's best to test these things out now so there aren't any surprises later!

Test your water source and make sure it's a good pressure.

Test the pressure on a surface other than your home or foundation. You want to make sure that the water source is giving you a good, steady stream before you start blasting away at your house.

Make sure there aren't any kinks in the hose that could be affecting its flow. If there are, straighten them out by hand or use pliers to slowly pull them back into place until they're smooth and free from kinks again.

Use a strainer in order to avoid grit coming out of the nozzle.

A strainer is a mesh or cloth that prevents grit from getting into the nozzle. With it, you can clean off your house without having to worry about any dirt getting on it in the process.

You can make one yourself using mesh or cloth and then attach it to either a bucket or pump sprayer.

It's important to remember that strainers need regular cleaning!

Pay attention to where your wand spray is going.

Pay attention to where your wand spray is going so that you don't miss spots when scrubbing them off with your cleaning pad or brush afterward. This will help you get the best results and make sure that nothing has been left behind on any surfaces.

You can use a pressure washer for many things around the house, including washing windows and doors, stripping paint from woodwork, cleaning upholstery fabrics (like car seats), removing oil stains from driveway pavement after an oil change job at home auto repair shops like Jiffy Lube or Firestone Tires stores where they sell new tires plus other auto parts along with oil changes too!

If you have kids and pets around, keep them away from areas where there's high pressure water.

Keep kids and pets away from areas where there's high pressure water being used because they may get injured by flying rocks and droplets of water that are flung up into the air when it hits hard surfaces like concrete and brick walls!

Make sure that your kids know not to touch any parts of your house if you're going to be using any kind of power tools or equipment. They could get hurt very easily if they try to help out and get in the way, especially if it's something dangerous like a chainsaw.

If you have an outdoor pool, make sure all gates leading into it are closed before starting any work around them so no one accidentally falls in while trying to escape from this thing called "work".

Signature Window Washing is a pressure washing Denver CO company that specializes in window cleaning. We use only the most advanced techniques and equipment available to ensure that your windows are clean and sparkling like they were when they were new.

Signature Window Washing is the best pressure washing Denver CO has to offer. Our professional window cleaners are experienced, friendly and hard-working, and we have the best equipment to ensure that your windows are sparkling clean. Signature Window Washing is the Window Cleaning Denver company you can trust. We use the highest-quality products and equipment to ensure that your windows are always spotless.

Signature Window Washing 1929 W 52nd Pl, Denver, CO 80221, United States 303-551-1708 https://signaturewindowwashing.com/

[wytfut]

Acreage Living

Had always imagined that I’d live on an acreage as a young adult. And by acreage, anything over 1 acre... maybe close to 10-20.

Now I’ve lived on one since, 1988 (2.25 acres).....  kinda wish I hadn’t gone for more than 1.  Even at 1, they can keep you pretty busy, depending on what you do on it.

For everything I have going on my acreage, I’d make a terrible neighbor in town. A home owners association would have a tizzy....  

I usually have at least one junk parts vehicle (currently), and in the past I had a small junk yard happening. 2 or 3 1957 series ford pickups (folks found out that we liked them, and it was like they were breeding out back) [just recently learned that this series ford truck are called “refrigerators”], with a few years 1953 Mercury ....     thru the years quite an assortment of others. 

When we first moved out here, the house (the original homestead house, not the current house), had a fairly new remodel. Brand new 2 stall garage, with an attached enclosed shop. A steel 2 stall (former gas company maintenance shed), and I’d guess an old wash house. 

Things did change thru the years. House burnt down Xmas 93. And around 2000 I moved an old 5 stall horse barn out back. 

We didn’t know when we moved in we were about 150′ from a 30″ transportation natural gas line.... that ran parallel to our property, directly thru our neighbors property (His house sat 20′ from that line). And thats how that steel shed came into play onto our property. We new when we got the house it had Natural Gas, but didn’t realize that it had a “farm tap” on that main.  Theres a lot of stories dealing with that gas line, I’ll tell in another episode...

When we moved out here the yard proper around the house was very nice. The rest of the property, including what we could see out the front window, was overgrown with piss elms, Marijuana and iron junk. 

I spent a lot of time the first 2 years clearing out all of that and a couple of buildings that had fallen in. 

A neighboring farmer was a pack rat (depression kid), and had a lot of junk piled up in our direct line of site of our living room. I had talked to him to see if I could clean it all up and haul all the junk off, plant some cedars... with a view to the  Interstate. 

Initially he was very good about the whole thing.... A couple of years into it, I noticed some of his junk was reappearing again in our view. I knew I was interrupting his thought train, but he DID say he’d be fine with it. 

One day he pulled this old very tired sprayer attachment  (hoses all rotted off, flat tires, rusty hydraulics, fiber glass tank all sun baked and cracked, etc...poor shape) back out to under the trees right in the middle of the view.   I know, its his junk not mine, and its his property.... but he said he was fine with it...       I went out and asked about what was going on...    “ You just can’t throw this away, this is good stuff!!!” ...  please remember my description above.  Then he said “ I can’t let you plant cedars here either, as what if I decide to farm that?.... I’d have to get some equipment to remove them”...

Ok ok....    For what ever reason he never mentioned the footings right in the middle of everything, that he’d also have to remove and the big ass Elms growing everywhere ... all to make it a field.   Turns out, he just didn’t want his junk thrown away.  So we lived with it for quite a while. One day just out of the blue, he showed up with a tractor and left with the sprayer... didn’t say anything. it never came back. 

In this pack rats assortment, I hauled into my ever growing brush/junk pile/hole.... over 5 pickup loads of hand coils of barbed wire. Thats right 5 truck loads. They were not stacked neatly in one place.... they were buried under tall grass and I’d find them anywhere when I was getting tired and ready to quit for the day. .... oh lordie what a  bunch of wire. Those hand coils were 5′ in diameter.... lots of barbed wire.

My brush/junk pile which I still have (currently HUGE,.... been a bad couple of years for wind storms), I then made into a shooting back stop. I had a bunch of heavy rail road ties I stacked/wired up and down as the front. Worked very well until the last 10 years when I started getting neighbors. ... It wasn’t used a lot, but when we wanted to shoot, it worked great. 

Kids had a good time out here growing up. Do about anything, without disturbing anyone. We had fields on 3 sides.  Yet we were within walking distance of town (driveway isn’t a quarter mile long, and then its Waverly, at that time). Bring their buddies out. Camp out, have a camp fire, shoot, etc. ... maybe a motorcycle or 2. Race around in a truck or car. good times....

Once the kids got out of the house, I considered seriously about moving out. Kids heard about it.....    so I’m still here.   

Threw the years we’ve had a lot of different wild life trot thru. Deer many many times. Ground hogs, coyotes, foxes, Opossum, coons, snakes, Turkeys, Red tail hawks, rabbits, Owls, and bats.   Current residents are coyote and fox. Everything else seem to appear/disappear in some odd pattern. No bats for years. Would really like to get some bats back.

As the field to the north of us traded hands for development, the city of Waverly’s city limit move to our north property line. Before the subdivision was built, the city of Waverly had “jurisdiction” over all property within 3 miles of town. 

Which basically means, if I build any structures on the property, or make improvements I have to have a building permit from the City of Waverly. Which is interesting here in Lancaster county Nebraski...

If the city of Waverly were not to approve of my build....   I could apply to the county (they’d pass anything), and it’d be a done deal that the city really couldn’t say anything about it. The City has had their fair share of hair pulling with all levels of government and their 3 mile jurisdiction. Battling NRD, State, and county.

First time we shot guns out here, a deputy showed up, on a fire works complaint. Once he saw we were shooting, “I’m not going to get into this, as it too much of a gray area for me to try and make a point...” and he left.  After that, we’d shoot, and no big deal and no law enforcement.

Not so long ago I was thinking of building new house on the back portion of the property. 

I had found a floor plan that Patti and I both liked (its a miracle). I submitted it to the City of Waverly.... and they immediately rejected it. Said it wouldn’t meet the covenant. 

Covenant? what covenant. I’m not in a neighborhood.... I’m an acreage, with no HOA.... odd conversation.  Didn’t I just write that this is an acreage outside of town?

My thoughts were, well then I’ll just go to the county with this. But stopped, as the county will not let you break up property less than 20 acres. I only have over 2, and I had thought once the new home was built, I’d sell off the front one. ... 

Being I wasn’t real serious about this idea,.... I just dropped it. 

Oh yeah.... why wouldn’t they pass my floor plan? .... it was a steel structure. Steel siding, steel roof.....     Said if I put common siding on it, and a regular roof on it, they’d pass it...      SMH!!   lol, steel building with asphalt shingles and vinyl siding, makes me giggle. Yeah, I know, steel buildings life span on average is around 20 years.

I now have neighbors (5 houses)  all along the north side of the property. Houses less than 100′ from our house. So we don’t shoot any more. I try to minimalize junk to their view. Been some really good neighbors....    One neighbor told me to go ahead and shoot, no big deal...    I replied,  “with little kids playing around” ... not gonna do it.

As my boys are gone from here since around 2000, and I maintain this 2.25 acres, keeping it respectable....   I’ve opened up the property to all of my neighbors, for their kids to use at their whim. ATV’s, Motorcycles, what ever....  Its silly of me to mow all of this, and not ever ever be used by someone... just silly expense of gasoline and time.

Have had folks try and talk me out of this, as “its a huge liability risk” ...  well I suppose someone really could get hurt. But kids/people get hurt, its a part of life. My kids did... I don’t want anyone to die back there and I’d feel horrible, if it were to happen. But people die and get hurt...  

Only restriction I’ve put on my open invitation.... they have to wear a helmet. And only the kids and their friends that live against my property. Had a few strays for a bit, but they left after a short period.  I also know, if someone were to sue me... what are they gonna get? I don’t really have nothing of value.... not of suing value anyways. 

When they were digging the basement of one of the houses on the north side of my place.... I noticed a puddle of fluid oozing up under the track loader...  No it wasn’t a muddy property, or had it rained recently. That track loader was pushing up goo.... 

It dawned on me..... I had no idea where my septic legs ran. Neither did the city or the county.  So before they started framing it in I got a mini excavator here, and dug all over the north edge of my property... Found the septic leg and blocked it off with quick mix cement. 

Now I did that not knowing where else that leg ran. But guessing there were more legs than what appeared. 

3 Summers later I dug in another 100′ of legs to solve my septic tank puking almost daily. That leg that was bleeding in my new neighbors yard, was the only leg my house had....    problem solved.

When it was a farm to my north, there were trees planted on the north side of “my” property. Once the subdivision was built, I lost all ownership to those trees. Really not a big deal but was surprised none the less. I told all of my new neighbors that the trees were theirs to do with what they wanted. Surprisingly they left the trees....   except for one. And it was no big deal.... just cedars.

3 summers ago had a terrific wind storm here. Worst I had ever seen on my property. It really looked like a war zone... amazing. My back was really giving me a fit at that time, but I knew I could get it done, but it was going to take at least a week. 

As I was out scanning the property, one of my new neighbors came out.... and offered to help. This really hurt my pride, but then again my back was a mess. I accepted. 

Started around 8 the next morning (note it was a weekday) and by the time 9;30 rolled around, I had 5 neighbors out helping me out. Chain saws, ATV, my tractor, my pick up...   the mess was done by mid afternoon. I was shocked, and humbled once again in my life.... 

I still don’t like the demands of an acreage. But now with “youthful” neighbors, who will speak to you when you go outside.....    that’s kind of cool...   I also get a grin every time I see the kids out fooling around out back, enjoying the property.

Having neighborly neighbors in this day and age, is becoming more and more rare. Lots of folks (really noted here in Waverlyville), don’t want nothing to do with their neighbors, and never speak. 

I have the need to know and trust my neighbors...     good folks so far.

[tiffyfoundsomething]

This is going to be a long one.

Ok.

I’m disabled. I end up spending a LOT of my down time watching YouTube, and it’s usually kind of weird stuff like carpet cleaning, car detailing, mowing lawns... Stuff I can’t do regularly or well, but is otherwise pretty normal and mundane.

I guess normal is more interesting when you can’t reach it.

Cleaning is difficult for me, and our carpeted stairs are a disaster as a result.

I’d been watching auto detailing and absolutely love the part where they get the extractor out and pull all of the yuck out of the carpets and seats.

I figured those extractors were huge and expensive, but they’re not.

It’s probably difficult to see, there, but this one costs about $160, but in teeny tiny text at the bottom, you can see there are 10 for $124 in the Amazon Warehouse. I went with the Warehouse.

I’ve mentioned before that buying from the Warehouse is great if you don’t mind damaged packaging. Buying from the Warehouse, sometimes you get stuff in boxes that look like this.

It’s full of holes and taped shut with UPS shipping labels.

Sometimes you get stuff that’s clearly been used.

Mmmmm. Thank goodness that’s the clean water tank.

They also used most of the tiny sample bottle of carpet cleanser that comes with the machine.

Other than having Other People Water in the clean water tank, most of the soap gone, and visible debris in one of the cleaning heads, the machine itself is fine.

I’m not sure whether they bought it, used it once for the job they needed it for, and returned it or if it didn’t work for them because the little spring plug at the bottom of the clean water tank was stuck until I freed it, so they thought it was broken, or what.

I bought this mostly for the stairs, but wanted to test it somewhere less conspicuous, first. So I took it upstairs by the laundry room.

Now, first you need to know, this photo isn’t accurate. The contrast is up. The carpet wasn’t THAT dark around the edges and the walls aren’t either.

One of the guys I’ve watched do carpet cleaning calls this the “dirt filtration line”. It’s where the vacuum can’t really get to the edge to suck up dirt there, and neither can a regular carpet shampooer. Though I admit I haven’t shampooed the carpet since this past summer.

I sprayed the carpet with Simple Green and scrubbed it with this carpet brush I also bought.

I’m not super impressed with this brush. It can’t reach the edge of the carpet, so I had to get out a cleaning toothbrush, too.

Still pretty nasty. I don’t have any pictures of me actually using it because I needed my hands.

The machine is LOUD, they sprayer feature is pretty dang good, and the way the cleaning heads are designed, I was able to get right up to the baseboard to pull out the water, cleanser, and dirt.

This is from the wall around both sides of the laundry room door. It’s not a lot of wall, maybe 4 feet including the doorway.

Gross. This is after vacuuming with my newish Shark vacuum, and with twice-yearly, not at all professional shampooing with this big monster of a thing that I don’t remember the brand of. It would work for this kind of job if it had come with the upholstery attachment, but THIS extractor is a lot more maneuverable being roughly 1/3rd the size.

.... ok no thanks.

Here you can compare the side I did (left) with the side I didn’t in normal lighting. Perfect? No. Better? Yes.

And that was so satisfying, pulling all that nasty out of the carpet, that I decided to tackle one of these patio chair pillows my husband likes to lay on in the living room (dude, I don’t know, I bought them for the patio chairs).

I tried getting a before pic of how grungy they are, but it didn’t really pick up on camera.

Nasty.

It is so satisfying to use this thing. The only things I would want to change about it are that I wish it weren’t so loud, and that it weren’t so heavy. I have trouble moving it around.

Also, both the power cord and the hose are pretty short at 6 ft each. There isn’t a ton of reach on this thing.

But I like it a lot.

[dallas-habitat]

Summer lawn prep: 4 things you need

It’s the time of year to get your lawn and garden prepared for summer! To help you on your way, we’ve put together this list of four products you need to buy in order to prepare your garden. Use these products this weekend and have the nicest looking yard in the neighborhood by next week! Here are our recommendations

Aeration

Aeration is essential to a healthy, happy lawn. It allows air, water and nutrients into your soil, keeping your grass green and healthy all summer long. Aeration opens up tiny pockets in your soil where roots can grow and develop. This also keeps these vital nutrients from being washed away by rainwater or being used up by other plants that aren’t part of your grassy ecosystem.

You can use either manual or motorized aerators. Manual ones are less expensive but require some elbow grease on your part; they work by essentially pushing holes through your lawn with a spike-like device called an auger. Motorized ones are more expensive but save time and energy while doing their job. Either way, you should get yours now so it has time to do its job before hot weather sets in!

For about $150, you can get a mid-range model that works well for smaller yards. An electric model will cost about $300, though if you have several acres of land to take care of, it may be worth it to go electric. However, if that’s out of budget, a second-hand aerator will do the trick. ReStores, for example, have home and garden supplies you can shop all year round!

Overseeding

Overseed is a lawn maintenance technique that helps fill in areas that are not growing well and gives new grass seedlings a better chance of surviving and growing. It’s best to overseed when temperatures are cool. In other words, wait until summer has started before overseeding; you’ll also want to wait until your soil is dry enough that it won’t wick away moisture from your seedlings.

When it comes to seeding your lawn, there are two main types of seed available. The first is known as uniform seed, and that’s what most pros recommend. These seeds will germinate at about 95 percent rate; with less expensive uniform seed, germination rates are likely to be closer to 85 percent.

To ensure an even distribution of seeds, experts recommend raking lightly or using a roto-tiller prior to sprinkling over them. You should also use a fertilizer to help provide additional nutrients for growing grass.

To overseed your lawn, you’ll need seed, of course. However, it’s also recommended to purchase fertilizer and a rake or roto-tiller for the best results.

Weed Control

Weed control is important because weeds can interfere with grass growth and cause your lawn to die. Using weed killer on your lawn will eliminate unwanted plants, allowing your lawn to flourish and look its best. Weed killer also contains herbicides that kill off other invasive plants that might otherwise take over your garden. Plants like dandelions, for example, can overtake a lawn very quickly if not treated with herbicide.

It’s important to use it when weeds are young so they don’t have time to spread or grow into large patches. There are several different methods for applying weed killer, but one of the easiest ways is by using a sprayer attached to your hose.

You’ll find different types of weed killers at most hardware stores. Look for brands that are non-selective and effective against broadleaf weeds—weeds such as clover, chickweed, henbit, oxalis and ragweed. Weeds such as crabgrass should be treated with specific herbicides containing crabgrass preventer.

Fertilizer

Fertilizing is one of those all-encompassing lawn maintenance activities, but it’s an important one. It feeds your grass and replenishes nutrients that have been depleted by winter weather, leaving your lawn strong and healthy for warmer months. Without it, you could end up with sparse patches or brown spots on your grass.

There are many different types of fertilizer—it’s important to know what type your garden needs. You can get a bag of organic fertilizer or a bottle of inorganic fertilizer; both are helpful. They can also vary in price depending on where you buy them and how much product is in each container, but typically cost between $10 and $50 per bag. In addition, fertilizers come with instructions that tell you how much product to use per square foot, so make sure to follow these guidelines carefully!

Shop ReStore for lawn and garden needs

A green lawn is a joy to behold, but it can also be a costly one to maintain. By prepping your lawn for summer with products from your local ReStore, or ReStore online, you can save on these costs while also protecting your family and reducing your carbon footprint. Our associates are here to help guide you in making lawn-friendly choices that don’t sacrifice quality or style. Pick up a few supplies at our Dallas locations or ReStore online and get ready for another great season of outdoor living!

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Best Lawn Fertilizers & Spreaders HandyGuyPros

Spring and fall are the best times to fertilize your lawn. Depending on the grass type and the amount of use the yard gets, you might apply nutrients up to 4 times a year. Of course, you want those applications to make the grass as green and lush as possible without burning it.

Let’s begin with a quick overview of the basics of lawn fertilization.

What kind of fertilizer do you need for your grass?

First, how much fertilizer do you actually need for your lawn? If it looks green and healthy and doesn’t get a lot of use, you may get by with just leaving grass clippings on it. Or you may apply nutrients only once a year.

If you have a yard that gets more use from your family, you may find yourself applying fertilizer from two up to four times a year, especially if you don’t leave grass clippings on the lawn after mowing.

When to fertilize?

If you have northern turf like Bluegrass, ryegrass, or fescue, you can lay down fertilizer around Memorial Day in May. If you have Southern grasses like St. Augustine, Bermuda, Centipede and Zoysia, you can fertilize early in April when the grass begins to grow.

Nitrogen, the base nutrient for grass

The single most-needed nutrient for grass is nitrogen (N). The typical dose is 1 pound of nitrogen per 1000 square feet per application time. Grass clippings break down into nitrogen, so you can save money by simply leaving them on your lawn. Clippings can cut down the amount of fertilizer you need by up to half. Shaded parts of your yard also need less nitrogen.

Nitrogen makes grass grow thicker and faster and gives it a nice dark green color. If your yard doesn’t get enough nitrogen, you can find yourself battling erosion from thin turf. Too much nitrogen and you’ll increase the number of weeds in your yard. Over time, this nutrient’s levels change depending on grass growth and soil conditions. If you have sandy soil, use turf fertilizers that have slow-release nitrogen so you don’t leach too much into the groundwater.

P and K

Healthy lawns also need phosphorous (P) and potassium (K). Phosphorous is usually only needed if you’re planting new grass. It helps seedling roots grow quickly. If you have your soil tested, you may find that you already have enough phosphorous in your ground. Don’t overdo it with this nutrient because it can cause algae blooms and kill fish if your runoff gets into water supplies.

Potassium helps grass resist environmental stress (like cold winter weather) and take in enough water. If you add potassium to your soil, many times it comes in the form of potash.

A complete package–N P K fertilizers

If you have a new lawn, you’ll probably invest in an NPK fertilizer. The proportions of each nutrient are designated on the bag or bottle. It could show something like “10-6-4” (10 parts N, 6 parts P, 4 parts K).

10-6-4? How to read the proportions?

If you have a 50-pound bag of lawn fertilizer and it’s marked 10-6-4, this is what it contains:

5 pounds of nitrogen, or 10%

3 pounds of phosphorous

2 pounds of potassium

The rest of the weight in the bag is sand or clay to help you spread out the nutrients.

Other nutrients for healthy grass

Too much or too little acid in your soil is bad for grass. If you test the pH level, you can see if it’s in the ideal zone of 6.5, slightly acidic. If it’s too low, or acidic below 6.5, you can add lime. If it’s too high above 7.5, or alkaline, you can lay down an acidic fertilizer like sulfur, ammonium nitrate, or ammonium sulfate.

Water-soluble? Granules? Organic? Synthetic? Which is best?

Water-soluble simply means you need to mix it with water before you apply it to your lawn. Miracle Grow is a well-known example. You may have a sprayer that you attach to a garden hose or a tank pulled by your lawn tractor.

Organic fertilizers have a slower release rate than most water-solubles, but they may be safer for use around your family and pets. They may also cost more than a synthetic fertilizer.

Granulated nutrients need to be sprinkled across your lawn, or mixed into the soil when you plant seed. You may use a spreader for granules.

The best lawn fertilizers for lush, healthy grass

Now it’s time to reveal our top picks for feeding your lawn.

Milorganite 62036-MW Organic Milorganite Fertilizer, 36-Lb

Our review begins with Milorganite’s 36-pound bag of organic fertilizer with iron. It’s a slow-release granule that doesn’t burn grass if you accidentally over-apply it, and it doesn’t stain pavement. It’s even used on golf courses that demand strong turf and tender-loving care.

This fertilizer is not straight manure. Instead, Milorganite captures waste water, treats it with microbes, then heat-dries the microbes. Their process is basically recycling. And their products are regulated by the EPA for safety.

Milorganite recommends applying one bag to a 2500 sq. ft. lawn four times a year. If you lay down new seed, mix one-part seed with four-parts fertilizer. Typically, each bag is 5-4-0, with 5% nitrogen, 4% phosphorous, and no potassium. It works on both clay and sandy soils, and the phosphorous in it is “slow-moving” so it doesn’t leach into groundwater. Just don’t apply it within 10 feet of any waterway.

Although Milorganite is more expensive than some synthetic products, it’s less likely to burn your grass because it has no chemical salts. It has a loyal fan base and lots of positive reviews from customers.

Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini Broadcast Spreader

When you need to spread granulated fertilizer, this spreader from Scotts makes the job a lot easier. This is one designed to work for yards up to 5000 square feet in size. The Edge Guard keeps fertilizer off driveways.

Scotts Wizz Hand-Held Spreader

The hand-held Wizz Spreader from Scotts is even more fun to use than the spreader cart. While it only holds enough for a 2500-square-foot lawn, it’s got a battery-powered sprayer. All you have to do is hold it and walk. Plus, you can use it to spread ice melt in the winter.

Safer Brand 9333 Ringer Lawn Restore II Fertilizer

If you liked Milorganite’s organic products but are wary of using phosphorous, take a look at Safer Brand’s Lawn Restore II. It has no phosphorous content so can use it near wells, creeks, and other waterways. In fact, after you apply it to your lawn, it’s important to water it and keep it moist for three or four days to activate it.

Like many organic fertilizers, you can use it any time during the growing season once the grass begins to grow until the early fall.

Safer Brand is made from plant-based nutrients, not manure. They use non-GMO soybean meal, sulfate of potash for potassium, and dried distiller’s grains from ethanol production. This combination of nutrients results in a greener lawn in just a few days. Its NPK ratio is 10-0-6.

You can use the Lawn Restore II on any type of grass, northern or southern. It won’t burn your lawn because it has no chemical salts. It’s safe for kids and pets, too. One bag covers up to 5000-square-feet, double the square footage of Milorganite, or the Scotts Turf Builder below.

Espoma ELF20 20-Pound Organic All Season Lawn Food

This organic 15-0-5 formula comes from a company that’s been in business for almost a hundred years. Espoma knows their stuff, and their All-Season Lawn Food is proof. It’s safe to use around kids and animals, plus it contains iron to green your grass without staining your concrete.

This is their all-season fertilizer for any type of grass. They have other related products for boosting your lawn at specific times of the year. This one is made from sulfate, urea, sulfate of potash, ferric oxide, and elemental sulfur. It has 7.70% slow-release nitrogen from pasteurized poultry manure, methylene urea, amonium sulfate and urea—animal waste products.

Users comment that their lawns are lush and green when using the Espoma products. It doesn’t burn their grass and doesn’t smell bad. It does need a light watering after application.

Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food

If you live in North America, you’ve probably heard of Scotts products. Most garden centers sell them. The Turf Builder is one of their most popular products. One bag covers up to 2500-square-feet of lawn. You can buy it in different varieties to tackle problems like crab grass, weeds, and for specific seasonal applications and Southern grasses.

The Turf Builder we’re reviewing is for any kind of grass at any season. You can apply it up to 4 times a year if needed. The ratio of nutrients listed on the package is 32-0-4, so it contains lots of nitrogen but no phosphorous. It also has 7% sulphur and 2% iron. It seems to work well, and isn’t very expensive compared to some organic products.

A look at the fine print on the package reveals that Scotts uses urea nitrogen, Ammoniacal nitrogen, and “other water soluble nitrogen” for the bulk of their fertilizer. We weren’t able to discover the source of their ingredients.

If you have Southern grasses, you might prefer to use their Southern Lawn Fertilizer described below.

Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Fertilizer with 2% Iron

The Turf Builder for Southern Lawns has a ratio of 26-2-13 and includes 2% iron. You can apply it in any season on either a wet or dry lawn.

Scotts Natural Lawn Food

If you’re interested in an OMRI-listed organic fertilizer, Scotts Natural Lawn Food is made from hydrolyzed feather meal, meat, bone, and blood meal, and sulfate of potash. It’s safe for pets, children, and you can walk on the grass right after you apply the granules It’s for any kind of grass at any season. But this is a product with sales restricted in several jurisdictions like Connecticut, Maryland, Maine, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Washington, and Wisconsin.

Scotts Liquid Turf Builder Lawn Food

It’s super easy to use the Scotts Liquid Turf Builder Lawn Food. It’s a 32-ounce bottle that attaches directly to your garden hose. Just be careful to not lay down too much at one time so you don’t burn the grass.

Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Lawn Food

Did you know that Miracle-Gro is part of the same manufacturing group as Scotts? You may know Miracle-Gro already because they sell liquid food for house plants.

Their Soluble Lawn Food is made of granules designed to It’s made for all lawn types and covers up to 4000-square-feet per box. Be sure to follow mixing directions because it can burn your lawn if it’s too strong.

If it’s applied properly, users say Miracle-Gro can revive your nearly dead lawn and keep it looking healthy. You can put it on your lawn every 2 to 3 weeks while grass is growing. Its ratio is 36-0-6 and it also contains a small percentage of iron.

If you want to have a healthy green lawn, you’ll most likely need to fertilize it even if you leave clippings or mulched grass on it after mowing. It’s a great idea to have your soil tested once a year, too.

Your choice of fertilizer may be restricted by local laws. Be careful to not contaminate water sources. Synthetic formulas are more likely to burn your grass if you over-apply them. Organic formulas are generally safe to use if you have animals and children.

Happy gardening! We wish you a lush green lawn this year! Check back soon for more helpful product reviews with the best value for the money.

Source : https://handyguypros.com/best-lawn-fertilizer-reviews/

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Scarab Beetle The scarab beetle family includes many beetle species known as destructive turf and garden pests. This includes devastating invasive pests, such as European chafers and Japanese beetles, as well as dozens of species known regionally as May beetles and June beetles. In their adult stage, some scarab beetles damage plant leaves, flowers, and fruits. In their immature larval stage, known as white grubs, scarab beetles damage roots of turfgrasses and other plants, from edible berries and fruits to evergreens and ornamental trees. Where grubs are numerous, root-damaged plants may die.

Scarab Beetle Identification:

Scarab beetles vary significantly depending on the species. May and June's beetles are relatively large, heavy-bodied beetles that grow up to 1 inch long — about twice the size of Japanese beetles. They vary in color from red-brown to nearly black, with several species displaying metallic green or bronze. Common May and June beetle larvae are creamy white, brown-headed grubs that measure up to 1 1/2 inches long. Like other white grubs, the six-legged larvae curl into "C" shapes when disturbed.

Signs/Damage:

 Depending on the species, adult scarab beetles emerge from the soil to mate and lay eggs any time from late spring into summer. Drawn to light, the larger species are awkward nighttime fliers that attract attention as they repeatedly crash into windows and screens. Those that feed on plants above ground may skeletonize leaves, eat flowers and chew holes in fruit. Scarab grubs typically hatch in early summer and feed on grass and plant roots below the soil line. Affected plants show drought-like symptoms, including stunted growth, wilting, yellowing, and browning. Turf damage often shows up the following spring when dead and dying grass fails to turn green. With heavy infestations, the soft, spongy turf can be lifted and rolled like a rug, revealing feeding grubs and damaged roots.

How to Control Scarab Beetles:

Effective scarab beetle control targets both the grub stage and adult beetles. Treat any areas where you see beetles or know past problems that occurred. The optimal time for grub treatment is late summer and early fall when grubs are still young, small, and close to the surface. Treat adult beetles any time they appear. We offer a highly effective granular product that works above and below the soil line to kill grubs and adult scarab beetles by contact. This product continues protecting for up to three months:

Sevin® Insect Killer Granules treat lawns, fruit and vegetable gardens, ornamental gardens and areas around your home. For best results in lawns, mow your grass at 3 inches or shorter and apply the ready-to-use granules with a standard lawn spreader. Water the treated area immediately with 1/2 inch of water to release active ingredients down into the soil. For added protection, treat adult beetles as they emerge to feed and lay their grub-producing eggs. The following non-staining liquid products treat lawns, edible and ornamental gardens, and your home's foundation up to a maximum height of 3 feet. These products kill scarab beetles by contact and keep protecting for up to three months:

Sevin® Insect Killer Ready to Spray attaches to a normal garden hose to measure and mix automatically as you spray. Treat at the earliest sign of newly emerged beetles or anywhere they're expected. Spray to cover all lawn and plant surfaces thoroughly.

Sevin® Insect Killer Concentrate, used with a regular pump-style sprayer, simplifies extensive coverage of small trees, shrubs and lawns. The convenient measuring cap makes it easy to get just the right amount of concentrate. Add water, mix well, and spray all surfaces thoroughly.

Tip: To confirm grub activity in an area, use a spade to lift a square foot of suspected turf or garden soil about 2 to 3 inches deep. If you find ten or more grubs per square foot, prompt, thorough treatment is critical. Read More: https://thesafepesticide.com/scarab-beetle/?feed_id=125&_unique_id=61124593c49ea

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5 Important Home Maintenance Steps for Spring https://ift.tt/3aQ6RVB

Spring is one of my favorite seasons because it’s a great time to address any roof damage that came with the fall and winter, and clean those often-neglected gutters and downspouts.

You can make sure the air conditioner will work when temperatures skyrocket and take steps to prevent your clothes dryer from catching on fire.

And you can transform a blank backyard to colorful flowerbed landscapes that will make home look and feel more like ‘home sweet home.’

It’s possible to do these things, and more, to improve your home and enhance your life. But first, you need to have a plan. And for that, read on!

Clean The Roof And Check For Damage

Regular roof maintenance is the most important maintenance tasks you can do around the home, since the roof protects you and everything inside your home. You should keep your roof clean, clear and in good shape, as small problems today can lead to much bigger ones in the future.

Spring is the best time for roof maintenance because your roof has weathered the fall and winter; it’s seen its share of leaves, limbs and snowfall, and it’s finally getting a reprieve.

Lingering debris can lead to damage, so here are some chores you should tackle as soon as possible.

First, clean the leaves, limbs and other debris from the roof. Then focus on any chimneys, dormers and valleys.

Next, check the flashing for damage and use masonry caulk to seal gaps where the flashing attaches to bricks or masonry. While you’re at it, check for loose or damaged roof shingles and repair those as needed.

Once the roof is spotless, look for any holes that might leak water and lead to mold, mildew and rot.

After all this, you can rest assured knowing that the roof over your head is doing the best job it can.

Clean All Rain Gutters And Downspouts; Make Repairs, If Necessary

After you’ve worked on the roof, check the gutters, which have probably accumulated lots of leaves and debris during the cooler seasons. Nothing good comes from clogged, overflowing gutters — but they can lead to rotten fascia boards, water damage, pests and maybe even damage to your home’s foundation.

That’s why regular gutter maintenance is important, and spring is a great opportunity for that since there’s no freezing weather or snow. (Plus, it just feels good to be outside.)

First, put on some gloves. Then, grab a gardening trowel and scoop the leaves and debris from the gutters. Next, move the leaves and debris to a plastic bag for safe keeping. (That way, you can add them to your compost pile. Waste not, want not!)

Finally, wash the insides of the gutters with a garden hose and check the downspouts to make the sure the water flows freely. And if you want to avoid cleaning your gutters every few months, here’s a bonus tip: go ahead and buy some gutter guards! You just insert them in your gutters to prevent leaf and debris buildup throughout the year.

Prepare Flowerbeds

Spring is a great time to get back in the garden, and if you notice any bald spots on the lawn that you want to replace with flowerbeds, there’s no better time than the present to prep!

The first step to create a new flowerbed is to kill the weeds and grass in the area. All you need to do that is some newspaper, a simple sprayer with water and mulch.

First, lay out your new flowerbeds. To do that, grab a can of spray paint and mark the borders of your planned flowerbeds. Next, lay down several sections of newspaper in the designated areas. Wet them down using the sprayer. If you want to ensure proper application, Vigoro landscape fabric can support healthy growth and block invasive weeds.

Finally, add some mulch to cover the newspapers (in a pinch, you can use free pinestraw or leaves taken right from your backyard, or store-bought wood chips or pine bark from The Home Depot Garden Center).

And that’s all it takes. In a few months, you can rake away everything to reveal rich, ready-to-plant topsoil.

The ‘newspaper method’ is perfect for prepping your garden for vibrant flowers that can add curb appeal or enhance your backyard paradise.

Have The Heating And Cooling System Inspected

Temperatures start to warm up in the spring, so now’s the perfect time to call a professional to service your heating and cooling system.

Many homeowners ignore the air conditioning and furnace until they suddenly stop working. And it’s never fun to live in an uncomfortable house and wait on a list to receive help during peak demand.

That’s why it’s important to get in the habit of having regular heating, ventilation and air conditioning maintenance.

The best thing is to do what you can to keep your system running efficiently, and hire a professional to do the rest.

First, clear away all leaves and debris that could block airflow from the A/C condenser unit.

Then, call an HVAC technician to look at your heat pump — they will check the belts and replace them if needed; oil any moving parts; and inspect the wiring.

If you’ve got an air conditioner unit, the technician will clean the air filters or replace them, as needed; vacuum out the unit and lubricate the motor; and check the refrigerant pressure.

Finally, reverse any ceiling fans’ direction to counterclockwise. This will blow air down, which is what you want in the spring and summertime, to cool you down so you rely less on the A/C.

Clean Lint From The Clothes Dryer’s Exhaust Pipe

Lint buildup in your clothes dryer or its vent pipe is one of those home maintenance chores that often are forgotten but couldn’t be more important.

That’s because accumulation of lint reduces your dryer’s efficiency, at least, and could be a fire hazard, at worst.

When your dryer has a lot of lint blocking the vent pipe, it can reduce airflow, which causes the dryer to work harder and put out more heat than it should — and that’s how many fires start.

Don’t let your dryer’s lint get out of hand. First, clean the dryer’s lint screen every time you use it. Just make sure that’s a regular part of the clothes drying process.

In addition, periodically clean out the vent pipe — there are even brushes made for the job. Buy one of those at The Home Depot and keep it in your laundry room for easy access. You’ll need it!

Just these simple steps can give you major peace of mind and prevent costly damage.

That way, you can worry less and focus on the things that matter most: spending quality time with family and friends in your well-maintained home!

For more tips, check out the Four Seasons of Homeownership Spring Checklist and download the interactive graphic!

Danny Lipford is among the country’s most sought-after home improvement experts.  The seasoned remodeling contractor and media personality served as the home improvement expert for CBS’s “The Early Show” and The Weather Channel for over a decade and has made more than 180 national television appearances on “Fox & Friends,” “Inside Edition,” “Morning Express with Robin Meade,” Fox Business Channel, Rachael Ray and more. He travels the country making appearances as a brand ambassador and spokesperson, and each year contributes expertise to hundreds of popular magazines and online media outlets.

The post 5 Important Home Maintenance Steps for Spring appeared first on The Home Depot Blog.

Home Depot Staff

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10 weird (but brilliant) gadgets that'll make your life easier — including this pet owner must-have

Ten useful gadgets to make life easier in 2019 (Photo: Chewy.com)

Set yourself up for success in tiny ways for the new year, and you’ll reduce your overall stress. Sometimes it’s the little things that can make a big difference. Here are 10 smart solutions to everyday challenges — poised to change your life for the better!

The editors at Yahoo Lifestyle are committed to finding you the best products at the best prices. At times, we may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page.

Evelots Ball Cap Washer in Sturdy Plastic

Evelots ball-cap washer in sturdy plastic. (Photo: Walmart)

I don’t want to make generalizations about teenage boys, but can we all agree that their baseball caps could use a washing? And yet that precious headwear is not exactly easy to clean. Hats off to whoever invented this clever gadget, a “cage” that enables you to safely wash caps in the top of your dishwasher (albeit one at a time).

Shop it: Evelots Ball Cap Washer in Sturdy Plastic, $7, walmart.com

Kale Razor and Herb Stripping Tool

Kale razor and herb stripping tool. (Photo: The Grommet)

You want to eat more greens, right? But they’re a pain to prep — and the healthier they are, it seems, the more work they entail. Not anymore. This brilliant tool shears tough leaves (think kale, collards, mustard green) off the rib with ease, helping you breeze through a whole head in just a couple of minutes. Smaller holes are for stripping herbs like rosemary, thyme and parsley. Forgive me in advance, but I have to say it: With this tool, it’s easy being green.

Shop it: Kale Razor and Herb Stripping Tool, $15, thegrommet.com

Hanger Spacers, 10-Pack

Hanger spacers. (Photo: Xangar)

Anyone who’s ever worked in a retail store knows that that spacing hangers uniformly (one-finger’s width!) is what gives a rack dignity. At home most of us have given up on this notion, and our overstuffed storage results in smashed, wrinkled clothes — requiring ironing even when they may have been in beautiful shape when they were put away. No longer. These hanger spacers give each of your shirts, dresses or pants the personal space it needs to remain in good shape and at the ready for service. The spacers make it easier to get dressed for work, to put away laundry and to feel like you’re ahead of the game. Available in charcoal or matte silver.

Shop it: Hanger Spacers, 10-Pack, $20, thegrommet.com

SnapBasket Collapsible Tote

SnapBasket collapsible tote. (Photo: Amazon)

It’s great that we’ve finally gotten into a nationwide habit of bringing our own bags to the grocery store. Each year more cities outlaw plastic bags. But if the back of your car now looks like an explosion at a tote-bag factory — a crazy chaos of canvas, nylon and good old-fashioned brown paper — you’ll love this slim, storable carry-all. It folds completely flat, expands to a generously sized rectangular cube and weighs next to nothing. Bring it into the supermarket with you, fill as you peruse the shelves, and after the groceries are put away at home, collapse and file neatly in your vehicle. Car clutter solved. And it’s available in five colors.

Shop it: SnapBasket Collapsible Tote, $30, amazon.com

Aquapaw Pet Bathing Tool

Aquapaw pet bathing tool. (Photo: Chewy.com)

I read that the best way to bathe a cat is by placing it on a tilted window screen in the tub. Its claws come out in fear, and in the cat’s terror it is trapped so you can lower the feline into the water. This, to me, seems bonkers, and it’s why my cat of 11 years has never been bathed. However, the Aquapaw makes me feel like I may have a chance yet. A wearable sprayer-scrubber that attaches to a hose (outside) or a faucet (in the tub), it lets you get the job done quick and clean. You might even be able to convince the kids there’s fun to be had here, and outsource dog-scrubbing duty to them.

Shop it: Aquapaw Pet Bathing Tool, $25, chewy.com

Tramontina PrimaWare 10″ and 12″ Stainless Steel Universal Lid

Tramontina PrimaWare universal lid. (Photo: Walmart)

Dinner prep is infinitely easier when you don’t have to rifle around for that one errant pot top. This universal lid has got you covered (or has got your pots covered). It works with most 8-, 10- and 12-inch pots and pans, so you can keep it handy, transfer from pot to pot as needed, and concentrate on your brilliant culinary creations instead.

Shop it: Tramontina PrimaWare 10″ and 12″ Stainless Steel Universal Lid, $16, walmart.com

Spin-Dry Toilet Brush

Spin-Dry toilet brush. (Photo: The Grommet)

What goes on inside the toilet-brush holder is something none of us wants to think about. We hold our breath, avert our eyes and pretend all is well, when we know in our hearts it ain’t. Someone stronger and braver confronted this issue and invented a toilet brush that’s easy to dry (so less icky to put away). After you finish cleaning the bowl, just hold the brush above the water, and squeeze the handle. The brush spins to eject liquid (along with any ooky stuff that might be hanging on). You can put it back in its holder with a good conscience and less chance of mucky waters greeting you next time.

Shop it: Spin-Dry Toilet Brush, $25, thegrommet.com

OXO Good Grips extendable tub and tile scrubber. (Photo: Amazon)

 OXO Good Grips Extendable Tub and Tile Scrubber

Yes, it’s intended to help you clean those high-up tiles on the wall next to the shower. And it’s damned good at this. Like so many OXO products, it’s an ergonomic delight. The head pivots to get into awkward spots, moving nimbly even when the pole is fully extended. A sturdy anti-microbial head is abrasive enough to do the job and easy to rinse clean. What the manufacturer may not mention is that it’s also awesome for killing bugs; this is the primary function for this tool in my home. I usually grab a used dryer sheet out of the laundry basket, lay it across the head (it sticks because of the scrubby texture) and in seconds that ceiling spider has met a quick (and I hope painless) demise.

Shop it: OXO Good Grips Extendable Tub and Tile Scrubber. $13, amazon.com

Vegetable Spiralizer Jar 

Vegetable spiralizer jar. (Photo: The Grommet)

Been meaning to spiralize but can’t quite get motivated? This low-tech hand tool takes away the intimidation factor — and the potential mess — catching and containing veggie ribbons as you twist. Make yourself a whole spiralized salad, top with a dollop of dressed lentils (or any leftover protein from last night’s dinner) and lunch is packed and ready to take to the office.

Shop it: Vegetable Spiralizer Jar, $15, thegrommet.com

Set of 2 Oil Sprayers

Oil sprayers. (Photo: The Grommet)

If, like many of us, you promised yourself healthier habits in 2019, these olive oil bottles belong in your kitchen. You get the convenience and lightness of cooking spray with the quality (and “good fat”) of your favorite olive oil. These bottles have a broad spritz, so they coat the pan using less oil overall — and who couldn’t use a bit fewer calories in that a.m. omelet? Fill the second bottle with balsamic, if you like; that makes it a breeze to dress salad, and keep leaves light and bright.

Shop it: Set of 2 Oil Sprayers, $20, thegrommet.com

Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:

Weighted blankets, cooling pillows and more sleep products to help you get a good night’s rest

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Are you ready for the Zombie Apocalypse? These ‘bug-out’ bags are

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Indoor and Outdoor Fertilizer

Best multi-use fertilizer is ideal for those who like to get the job done without the need for a ton of tools. Outdoor and Indoor Smart-Release Plant Food is enriched with 11 nutrients and can feed a plant for up to six months. Gardeners and homeowners know how much maintenance their greens require. Serious gardeners and newbies alike can enjoy this feed with ease. It comes with a small scooper that you can use to measure the feed of each plant. Simply add it to your soil, and mix it into the top layer. Check your plants every six months for reapplication. When it comes to fertilizer, smart-release granules are a great idea for those looking to feed their plants and not have to worry about it for a long time. You only have to feed your plants twice a year for optimal growth. This formula is said to work with all plant types.

Liquid Fertilizer Liquid Concentrate Fertilizer is a great option for feeding you lawns and gardens. This formula is micro-brewed to include earthworm casings and bat guano to keep your plants green and thriving. While dry fertilizer is usually mixed with water to create a nutrient solution, liquid fertilizer is stronger, and commonly used by commercial professionals. Liquid fertilizer seeps deep into your soil, penetrating it in all the right places to ensure your best lawn yet.

Liquid fertilizer is very nutrient and naturally focused. The formula includes Norwegian kelp, and rock phosphate to increase yield and evenly transfer the energy of your plants. Liquid fertilizer formula is known for its ability to intensify the smell of your flowers thanks to highly concentrated ingredients. This is a great feed option for those who are looking to get the best out of their flower beds and bulbs.

Overall Fertilizer By using this specific feed on your plants over 1 to 2 weeks, you will get maximum growth. This product is perfect for all plants: flowers, trees, shrubs, vegetables, and any houseplants. The feed is easy to use. If you are using the brand garden feeder hose attachment, all you have to do is fill the jar, attach your hose, set the sprayer, and you are good to go. You can also simply add the feed to any watering can. ½ a teaspoon to a full teaspoon is all you need to feed your plants while you are watering. While too much of most feeds could actually damage your plants

thespruce.com

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5 Important Home Maintenance Steps for Spring

Spring is one of my favorite seasons because it’s a great time to address any roof damage that came with the fall and winter, and clean those often-neglected gutters and downspouts.

You can make sure the air conditioner will work when temperatures skyrocket and take steps to prevent your clothes dryer from catching on fire.

And you can transform a blank backyard to colorful flowerbed landscapes that will make home look and feel more like ‘home sweet home.’

It’s possible to do these things, and more, to improve your home and enhance your life. But first, you need to have a plan. And for that, read on!

Clean The Roof And Check For Damage

Regular roof maintenance is the most important maintenance tasks you can do around the home, since the roof protects you and everything inside your home. You should keep your roof clean, clear and in good shape, as small problems today can lead to much bigger ones in the future.

Spring is the best time for roof maintenance because your roof has weathered the fall and winter; it’s seen its share of leaves, limbs and snowfall, and it’s finally getting a reprieve.

Lingering debris can lead to damage, so here are some chores you should tackle as soon as possible.

First, clean the leaves, limbs and other debris from the roof. Then focus on any chimneys, dormers and valleys.

Next, check the flashing for damage and use masonry caulk to seal gaps where the flashing attaches to bricks or masonry. While you’re at it, check for loose or damaged roof shingles and repair those as needed.

Once the roof is spotless, look for any holes that might leak water and lead to mold, mildew and rot.

After all this, you can rest assured knowing that the roof over your head is doing the best job it can.

Clean All Rain Gutters And Downspouts; Make Repairs, If Necessary

After you’ve worked on the roof, check the gutters, which have probably accumulated lots of leaves and debris during the cooler seasons. Nothing good comes from clogged, overflowing gutters — but they can lead to rotten fascia boards, water damage, pests and maybe even damage to your home’s foundation.

That’s why regular gutter maintenance is important, and spring is a great opportunity for that since there’s no freezing weather or snow. (Plus, it just feels good to be outside.)

First, put on some gloves. Then, grab a gardening trowel and scoop the leaves and debris from the gutters. Next, move the leaves and debris to a plastic bag for safe keeping. (That way, you can add them to your compost pile. Waste not, want not!)

Finally, wash the insides of the gutters with a garden hose and check the downspouts to make the sure the water flows freely. And if you want to avoid cleaning your gutters every few months, here’s a bonus tip: go ahead and buy some gutter guards! You just insert them in your gutters to prevent leaf and debris buildup throughout the year.

Prepare Flowerbeds

Spring is a great time to get back in the garden, and if you notice any bald spots on the lawn that you want to replace with flowerbeds, there’s no better time than the present to prep!

The first step to create a new flowerbed is to kill the weeds and grass in the area. All you need to do that is some newspaper, a simple sprayer with water and mulch.

First, lay out your new flowerbeds. To do that, grab a can of spray paint and mark the borders of your planned flowerbeds. Next, lay down several sections of newspaper in the designated areas. Wet them down using the sprayer. If you want to ensure proper application, Vigoro landscape fabric can support healthy growth and block invasive weeds.

Finally, add some mulch to cover the newspapers (in a pinch, you can use free pinestraw or leaves taken right from your backyard, or store-bought wood chips or pine bark from The Home Depot Garden Center).

And that’s all it takes. In a few months, you can rake away everything to reveal rich, ready-to-plant topsoil.

The ‘newspaper method’ is perfect for prepping your garden for vibrant flowers that can add curb appeal or enhance your backyard paradise.

Have The Heating And Cooling System Inspected

Temperatures start to warm up in the spring, so now’s the perfect time to call a professional to service your heating and cooling system.

Many homeowners ignore the air conditioning and furnace until they suddenly stop working. And it’s never fun to live in an uncomfortable house and wait on a list to receive help during peak demand.

That’s why it’s important to get in the habit of having regular heating, ventilation and air conditioning maintenance.

The best thing is to do what you can to keep your system running efficiently, and hire a professional to do the rest.

First, clear away all leaves and debris that could block airflow from the A/C condenser unit.

Then, call an HVAC technician to look at your heat pump — they will check the belts and replace them if needed; oil any moving parts; and inspect the wiring.

If you’ve got an air conditioner unit, the technician will clean the air filters or replace them, as needed; vacuum out the unit and lubricate the motor; and check the refrigerant pressure.

Finally, reverse any ceiling fans’ direction to counterclockwise. This will blow air down, which is what you want in the spring and summertime, to cool you down so you rely less on the A/C.

Clean Lint From The Clothes Dryer’s Exhaust Pipe

Lint buildup in your clothes dryer or its vent pipe is one of those home maintenance chores that often are forgotten but couldn’t be more important.

That’s because accumulation of lint reduces your dryer’s efficiency, at least, and could be a fire hazard, at worst.

When your dryer has a lot of lint blocking the vent pipe, it can reduce airflow, which causes the dryer to work harder and put out more heat than it should — and that’s how many fires start.

Don’t let your dryer’s lint get out of hand. First, clean the dryer’s lint screen every time you use it. Just make sure that’s a regular part of the clothes drying process.

In addition, periodically clean out the vent pipe — there are even brushes made for the job. Buy one of those at The Home Depot and keep it in your laundry room for easy access. You’ll need it!

Just these simple steps can give you major peace of mind and prevent costly damage.

That way, you can worry less and focus on the things that matter most: spending quality time with family and friends in your well-maintained home!

For more tips, check out the Four Seasons of Homeownership Spring Checklist and download the interactive graphic!

Danny Lipford is among the country’s most sought-after home improvement experts.  The seasoned remodeling contractor and media personality served as the home improvement expert for CBS’s “The Early Show” and The Weather Channel for over a decade and has made more than 180 national television appearances on “Fox & Friends,” “Inside Edition,” “Morning Express with Robin Meade,” Fox Business Channel, Rachael Ray and more. He travels the country making appearances as a brand ambassador and spokesperson, and each year contributes expertise to hundreds of popular magazines and online media outlets.

The post 5 Important Home Maintenance Steps for Spring appeared first on The Home Depot Blog.

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Specifications: Nozzle Subject matter: Brass Gun Body Subject matter: Zinc Alloy Product Size:10CM X 16CM Thread Diameter : 3/4 inch

Features: -Can freely switch between flush and foam ie foam regulate, water glide regulate. -Labor-saving buckle, convenient to make use of. -Flexible and adjustable water glide from fine mist, moderate spray, jet stream by rotating the pinnacle of the hose nozzle from left to right.

Package included: 1 * Metal Spray Nozzle 1 * Rubber Hose Washer

ESOW Warranty We worth each and every customer’s shopping revel in. If for any explanation why you don’t seem to be satisfied with the acquisition of this product, please don’t hesitate to contact us, we can solve the issue as soon as conceivable. We provide 90 days a reimbursement guarantee go back policy for no physically damaged. [ADVANCED MATERIAL]-Fabricated from one hundred% metal construction built and brass head, durable and robust. Full soil brass nozzle & zinc alloy gun body. Gun is far stronger than plastic ones and built to last. ESOW garden hose nozzle fits all 3/4″usual garden hose, highest for Watering Your Garden, Lawn, Grass, and Flower Beds. It is usually great for Washing Your Car, Dogs, and Pets. [4 WATERING PATTERNS]-We all know that almost all of garden nozzle have 8-9 watering modes in the marketplace, quite common. But are you sure you want all of those(8-9) patterns on your day by day life? In truth, many of those(8-9) water glide patterns are very identical. Yes, we best have 4 WATERING MODELS, but from JET to LARGE AREA FAN OUT WATER. We will be able to assure you that our ESOW garden hose nozzle have enough water glide patterns on your on a regular basis flowers and irrigation. MEET VARIOUS CLEANING NEEDS! [LABOR-SAVING & ERGONOMIC DESIGN]-ESOW garden nozzle includes a nice Effort-saving buckle of the care for that keep the water is still on without you having to use any pressure. Just use the clip so you wouldn’t have to keep your hand holding it the entire time. It is very simple and convenient. [LEAK-PROOF]-One piece design and a rubber hose washing machine provides a durable and tight seal to get rid of leak. Consistent water glide in all positions and instructions, our spray nozzle also has completely shutting off serve as. The adjustable copper brass sprayer can’t best enhanced the entire quality of hose nozzle, but perfectly save you the mental rust. [WIDE RANGE OF UDE]-Watering plants and flowers, cleaning the walkway/driveway, watering the grass, even can use it to offer a tub to dog, which also saves you 90% water wastage.It has an impressive jet setting for spraying things at a distance such as wasp nest that you would not need to get as regards to. [amz_corss_sell asin=”B07JG2Q6PF”]

ESOW Garden Hose Nozzle, 100% Heavy Duty Metal Spray Gun with Full Brass Nozzle, 4 Watering Patterns Watering Nozzle- High Pressure Pistol Grip Sprayer for Watering Plants, Car Wash and Showering Dog Specifications: Nozzle Subject matter: Brass Gun Body Subject matter: Zinc Alloy Product Size:10CM X 16CM Thread Diameter : 3/4 inch…

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Carpet Cleaning Methods – Choose The Best One For Your Carpet

Maintaining a carpet is absolutely essential as any noticeable spot on your carpet can blotch your image. Approaching a professional carpet cleaning service is quiet essential as they know what type of cleaning method is right for your carpet. Depending on the factors such as type of material and whether the fabric can endure the cleaning process etc., commercial carpet cleaners decide the cleaning method. Besides, professional carpet cleaners will cause minimum disturbance to your schedule as they are prepared to work as per your convenience.

Discussed below are a few carpet cleaning methods that commercial carpet cleaning services often follow. The most common cleaning methods include shampooing, steam cleaning and dry cleaning etc. Regardless of the method used for the carpet cleaning, initially it is necessary to vacuum everything from the carpet, especially when deep cleaning is needed. Carpet owners need to understand these methods and identify the most appropriate one depending on their carpet type, budget and convenience.

Shampooing

In this cleaning method, following equipments are used: rotatory floor machine also called as floor buffer that comes with solution tank attachment and nylon shampooing brush. Particles like loose soil are removed initially by pre-vacuuming the areas where shampooing is expected to be done. Once the machine is assembled, technicians use it by mixing carpet shampoo. The amount of shampoo to be used depends on manufacturer’s instructions. Then the cleaners work the machine in circular motion throughout the carpet, so that the shampoo is released evenly on the carpet. The process is continued till it forms letter ‘C’. Then they stop releasing the shampoo and move the machine circularly or in other directions to scrub the dirt away. The shampoo can then be extracted by vacuuming the areas. This method is suitable for carpets with traffic pattern or those which are heavily soiled.

Steam or hot water extraction cleaning

This method requires a steam machine, which is used to inject hot water and cleaning solution into the cleaning areas of carpet. The machine features wand and hot water solution holding unit. To set up, the vacuum hoses and solution unit are attached to the wand and machine unit. For starting the cleaning process, technicians start from far end and then clean backwards, release the cleaning solution into the carpet by squeezing the trigger, while moving the wand backwards. The process is completed by giving a dry pass to the areas using the wand and removing excess moisture. This method is suggested for office cubicles and areas where tight cleaning is needed.

Quick dry cleaning

As the quick drying technique allows you to get back to your routine life within few hours, it is being preferred over steam cleaning. The most popular method in this category is Bonnet cleaning, which is a low-moisture and quick-drying cleaning technique. This method needs the same machine used in shampooing technique but the attachments vary. Here a block driver is used, which is connected to the machine for holding the absorbent pad. The cleaning solution is mixed and dispensed into the pressure sprayer, which can be used to spray in the cleaning areas. To start the cleaning, technicians buff the areas with the bonnet pad and move the machine in circular and other directions. All the dirt and moisture is absorbed by the bonnet and the carpet will be set for use in about an hour.

While executing any of these methods the commercial carpet cleaners carry few things such as air movers, fans, spot cleaning chemicals and removers.

Air movers and fans: While performing the cleaning process it is common that workers occupy the area. They step in and out from wet areas to dry areas making it difficult to dry the area completely. So, to quickly dry the wet areas it is a must to carry the air movers and fans.

Spot cleaning chemicals and tools: Spot cleaning tools are required for areas where strains can be found. Spot cleaning chemicals and tools like gum remover, all-purpose spot remover and rust remover are quiet essential for the spot cleaning.

Request your carpet cleaner to use a protectant at the end of the cleaning process. You can also request them to spray deodorizer. These important carpet cleaning tips will help to make your carpet remain clean for long and emanate a lingering fragrance.

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Landscaping Can Entail Lots Of Factors For Almost Any Lawn

A swimming pool is one of the landscaping designs that make your lawn are prominent in your city. It is a remarkable way for family's recreation and relaxation. A swimming pool is either across the ground or in-ground beach. But whichever type of pool you have, end up being necessary to enjoy it landscaped because a naked ground around a pool is simply unsightly. Subsequent are some landscaping ideas for in-ground swimming pool area.

By making use of rocks for landscaping as opposed to time-consuming plants, you will see that you quite a modicum of extra period for do those fun activities that you enjoy doing. The rocks will not need care, since soaked alive, sound experience . will provide enough a person to relax in your nicely landscaped area. You may have a beautiful, visually appealing yard without various hours of hot, chores that it takes when you've live scenery.

Wood, tile, and carpet material and labor - Decide how the flooring will be laid in Landscaping Singapore your new home. For fair pricing and top notch workmanship contact BJ's Flooring at 318.371.6823.

Your written plan should include a timetable for an individual will install each regarding your garden. Most people can't buy to make all in the way of at 1 time. Planning your landscape project gradually lets you what need to as you go, so the money becomes available to buy. This phased financing lets you avoid a person's eye and fees associated with home improvement loans or putting your purchases on credit debit cards.

Find some land. Now you have your property plans and know what footprint home will glance at the property. Appear around and find some land to grow your new house on. Drive around, search the newspaper, look located on the internet. Discover what the restrictions use the real-estate. Many subdivisions have covenants (restrictions) describing which kind of of homes are empowered. If your house fits then great! If not, pick another house or another piece of land.

When your home owner begins a project, they possess a vision inside your mind of what they want the finished design for you to become. This vision consists, in part, of your respective design that gives the following benefits; visually appealing, functional in an operating way, durable, and in a certain tight budget. The use of stone veneer in home additions, Landscaping Singapore and hardscape features makes all of these benefits most likely.

There are all different people. The best one for someone with disabilities is one who has a forward assist motor in order they don't have to download the pipe. It simply slowly feeds out so which can just position it where you need it. You should also retract the hose automatically without the pain . push for this button. Make sure that you receive one having a kink-free garden. Some are programmable, which means once the hose happens to be in place, may just let it rest and it can be water get away is supposed to, retracting the hose when it is done. Some have clamp on attachments, which means that there is just not twisting to connect the hose to the tap or the accessories towards the end for this hose. A fireman's spray nozzle a lot easier to use than a normal sprayer marker.

However, embellishments doesn't should grand to achieve an excellent landscape. In fact, a simple arrangement of rocks and pebbles would succeed if it is done right. The main factor is that everything blends well and the landscape reflects your personal style and personality.