Author: Fiona Brewer

How Pressure Washing Can Improve Your Curb Appeal

Fiona Brewer Pressure Washing , , , , , ,

Pressure Washing (sometimes called power washing) is a fast, effective way to get rid of dirt, mildew and other organic build-up on surfaces like your driveway or deck. It can also help you keep your building clean and attractive, improving its curb appeal.

Pressure Washing

The forceful blast of water can also be used with detergents or cleaning solutions to further enhance the cleaning process. It is important to use the correct water temperature for each surface to avoid causing damage. Visit https://www.certifiedsoftwash.ca/ to learn more.

When dirt and mildew accumulate on exterior surfaces, it can cause damage and discoloration. Pressure washing can quickly and effectively remove contaminants from surfaces, leaving them looking like new and extending the life of the surface. While it’s possible to do this job yourself, hiring a professional can help prevent costly mistakes that could damage the surface or hurt you.

There’s no magic wand that can instantly banish years of built-up grime from the outside of your house, but pressure washing is one of the best ways to clean your home’s exterior and make it look like new again. A good pressure washer can also help keep your home healthy by removing pollutants, including oils and mold, that can contribute to rot and decay.

Choosing the right cleaning solution for each surface is critical. Different types of surfaces require different chemicals and amounts of water pressure to ensure proper, safe cleaning. For example, if you’re cleaning vinyl siding, it can be damaged by harsh, high-pressure cleaners. It’s best to use a cleaning agent that is recommended for that type of material, such as a mild soap or detergent.

If you’re cleaning a wood-clad house or garden shed, it’s important to use only a low amount of pressure. This will avoid warping or damaging the timbers. Also, it’s a good idea to move any plants or garden ornaments away from the area you’re spraying. If you’re spraying near any power outlets, close them so water and electricity don’t mix.

Cleaning a brick facade is more challenging than cleaning most other surfaces, but it’s still doable with the right equipment and knowledge. Using the right amount of water pressure and a brush with a long handle can minimize the risk of damage to the facade. You should also check for pest problems and address them before starting to avoid disrupting nests or disturbing any other animals. If you have a brick home built before 1978, it’s worth hiring a professional to identify the presence of lead paint and ensure the washing process doesn’t damage it.

Removing Mold and Mildew

Mold, mildew and fungus aren’t just unsightly; they can also rot or damage the surfaces that they coat. Fortunately, with the right cleaning products and the power of water from a pressure washer, these spores can be removed quickly and easily. A professional pressure washing company is able to select and use cleaners that are designed specifically for siding, decking and concrete areas. The high water pressure and detergents work together to remove the spores and leave surfaces looking like new again.

The process is quick and easy; most pressure washing jobs can be done in a matter of minutes. And because the detergents used are made for specific types of surface material, there is little risk of damage to the surfaces being cleaned. A hose and nozzle, a bucket, a scrub brush that is suitable for siding and some form of extension handle put even tall areas within reach. It is recommended to cover shrubs and delicate plants before cleaning; some mildew removing cleaners can be hard on plant tissue. A face mask and goggles should be worn to protect the eyes and nose during the process, as the chemicals can be harsh on the skin.

While the cleaning process is going on, it is important to keep the area damp to avoid over-washing and water-logging. This is especially important for concrete surfaces, as excessive water can lead to rotting and cracking. The detergents that a professional uses in conjunction with the power of water also help to prevent mold and mildew from returning, so you can enjoy your newly-clean home exterior for longer.

There are many products on the market that claim to remove mildew and mold, but not all live up to their claims. Mold is not just an unsightly eyesore; it can eat away at building materials, leading to structural damage. A reputable company that offers pressure washing services can also offer a variety of other maintenance services for your home, including gutter cleaning, driveway and deck staining and roof cleaning. When scheduled at the same time, these additional services can provide an overall cleaning and maintenance that keeps your home in great condition for longer.

Preventing Damage

Pressure washing can help to dislodge and remove ingrained dirt, mildew and mold, but it’s important to take the proper precautions. Using a high-pressure water spray can damage surfaces if it’s used too forcefully, and this damage can be costly to repair.

It’s also important to note that some materials can be damaged by too much pressure washing, such as windows, soft woods and vinyl siding. It’s best to hire a professional to perform the cleaning and ensure that the proper pressure is being used on each surface.

A professional will evaluate the area that needs to be cleaned, determine the appropriate PSI and water flow rate, as well as choose the right nozzle for each surface type to ensure that it’s being properly cleaned without being damaged. They’ll also know exactly what chemicals to use to get the job done effectively, as well as which ones are safe for each surface.

The forceful stream of water from a pressure washer carries kinetic energy, which helps break the bonds between the surface and the unwanted substances. It can also create turbulence, further assisting in the detachment and removal of dirt, grime and other contaminants. Additionally, some pressure washers have the ability to provide heat, which can further enhance the cleaning process by enabling certain chemicals to dissolve more quickly.

When you’re doing a DIY pressure washing project, it’s important to wear safety glasses and clothing, as the jet of water can cause cuts if it comes into direct contact with your skin. You should also always point the nozzle of the pressure washer in the direction that you want to spray, and never hold it close to your body.

Ideally, you should also avoid touching the surface that’s being pressure washed and keep children and pets at a safe distance as well. Finally, make sure that the power cord and water hose are fully unraveled before moving them to prevent kinks or tripping hazards, and always make sure they’re out of the way of foot traffic.

Keeping Your Home Looking Great

As a homeowner, it can be easy to let your home’s exterior maintenance fall by the wayside. But regular pressure washing can make it much easier to keep up with your property’s upkeep and maintain a beautiful curb appeal. It can also help you spot issues before they become major problems. For example, a build-up of dirt or grime can prevent water from draining properly and can lead to foundation damage or roof leaks. A regular cleaning can stop these issues in their tracks and save you a lot of money in the long run.

Professional pressure washers know how to use the right amount of water and how to handle different materials without damaging them. They will start with a lower pressure and gradually work their way up until they have achieved the desired results. They will also know how to take special care with your windows and doors and will cover any outdoor furniture or plants that need to be protected from the pressurized spray.

They will always test the spray on an inconspicuous area of a surface and will adjust the pressure as needed (by bringing the nozzle closer or changing the nozzle) to ensure that the surface is being cleaned without damage. They will also know how to clean out their hoses and nozzles after each use to avoid any build-up of dirt or debris that could cause damage in the future.

And while it may seem counterintuitive, hiring a professional to handle this task is actually the best choice for your home. A single mistake with a pressure washer can result in expensive repairs or even damage your house’s siding or other surfaces. The pros will take the necessary precautions and have the experience to quickly and effectively get your home looking like new again.

If you’re thinking about selling your home in the near future, it can be an effective way to increase its value. A dirty and dingy home is a turn-off to prospective buyers, but a clean and well-maintained one can really impress them.

Cabinet Refinishing – Revamp Your Kitchen’s Cabinets

Fiona Brewer Home Improvement , , , , ,

The cabinets in your kitchen make a huge impact on the overall look and feel of the room. If they are old and outdated it may be time to consider cabinet refinishing.

Cabinet Refinishing

But is it really worth it? Is this a cost-effective way to update your cabinets? Keep reading to learn more about San Jose Cabinet Refinishing.

Cabinet refinishing is a much more cost-effective option than refacing, and can save homeowners up to 50%. Refacing costs upwards of $5,500 on average and requires the demolition and installation of new cabinet doors and drawer fronts. Cabinet refinishing, on the other hand, typically costs no more than $1,500 on average, and is perfect for those who want to update their cabinets but don’t have the budget to replace them.

Before any work can begin, the cabinet surfaces will need to be prepped. This will involve stripping any existing paint, repairing any cracks or holes, and sanding the surfaces to prepare them for a fresh coat of stain or paint. If necessary, the cabinet boxes will also need to be repaired. This is a time-intensive project, and many homeowners find that they need to hire professionals for this job to ensure that the work is done properly.

The type of material used on the cabinet doors and drawer fronts will also impact the refinishing process. For example, thermofoil and laminate can’t be refinished, as they don’t have the proper substrate to hold the stain or paint. Solid-color cabinets, on the other hand, are usually made of medium-density fiberboard (MDF), which can be refinished. This is a good option for homeowners who don’t want to commit to replacing their kitchen cabinets, but would like a change in color.

Reusing hardware is another great way to save money on a cabinet refinishing project. If your existing hardware matches the new aesthetic, there’s no need to purchase new knobs and pulls, which can be expensive. Homeowners who are looking to save even more can opt to use polyurethane instead of solvent-borne lacquer when refinishing their cabinets, as this finish is less expensive.

While it is possible to refinish your cabinets yourself, the project is a huge undertaking and should be left to professional technicians with years of experience. It’s important to do your research when hiring someone for this task, and ask questions about their previous experiences with refinishing projects. Homeowners should also be sure to get multiple quotes from different contractors before making a decision.

Time-Saving

Cabinet refinishing involves working with existing doors and cabinets to change their color. This process is much faster and easier than replacing them with new ones. It’s also a more eco-conscious option since the original materials are reused, rather than discarded and end up in landfills where they can leach chemicals into soil and water.

Refinishing is a great choice if you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen without breaking the bank. But it’s important to know that this project can be difficult for DIYers. It requires a lot of work and a good understanding of the process. It’s also important to use proper prep and safety procedures, as improper handling of chemicals and sanding can cause damage that may be costly to repair.

To start, you’ll need a variety of tools and supplies. This includes a sanding machine and sandpaper, paint or stain, a sprayer or brush, a drop cloth, and protective gear such as masks and gloves. It’s also a good idea to have a helper to assist you with the heavy lifting.

Before you begin, it’s important to sand the cabinets and scuff them to give them “tooth” and promote adhesion. Make sure to sand the entire surface, including edges and corners. Once the sanding is complete, you can vacuum and tack the area to remove any residual dust. It’s also a good idea at this point to seal the cabinets with a high-quality primer, especially if you’re moving from a dark to light color.

Once the primer has dried, you can begin painting or staining. It’s a good idea to use a high-quality acrylic latex or enamel for best results. A good quality finish will protect the cabinets from daily wear and tear and will look great for years to come.

Refinishing is not as extensive as refacing, but it can be more time-consuming. The main difference between refacing and refinishing is that refacing involves removing the hinges, handles, and hardware from the cabinets, as well as sanding down the existing structures. A refacing job can be completed in a day or two, but it can take up to four days to complete a refinishing project.

Aesthetically-Appealing

Cabinet refinishing is an effective and cost-efficient way to revitalize your home’s appearance. This transformative process allows you to customize your living spaces with a fresh coat of paint or stain that aligns with current design trends and reflects your personal style.

The refinishing process begins with a thorough cleaning and degreasing of the cabinets, ensuring that the new finish will adhere seamlessly. This is a crucial step because if the cabinets are not properly prepared, it can lead to unsatisfactory results and premature wear and tear.

A professional cabinet refinishing company will strip the existing finish in order to prepare the wood for a new coat of stain or paint. This is done by using a chemical stripping agent or through lots of sanding. It is important that the existing finish is completely stripped so that the new coating will adhere properly. If the new coating does not adhere, it can cause sagging and chipping. It is also crucial that the new stain or paint used is formulated specifically for cabinetry. Regular paint bought in a store is not made to withstand the moisture that is found in kitchens and bathrooms, so it will begin to peel or fade quickly.

During the refinishing process, any cracks or chips in the cabinets will be repaired, and any water damage will be treated with appropriate drying and sanding methods. This will ensure that your newly refinished cabinets will be durable and beautiful for years to come.

Whether you are looking for a classic white finish or something bolder, there is a wide range of color options available. Many homeowners choose to contrast their upper and lower cabinets with complementary colors, creating a dynamic effect that can dramatically alter the ambiance of your space. Moreover, the choice of cabinet hardware is another element that can make or break the look of your space. From simple knobs and pulls to elaborate handles, there is a wide selection of styles to choose from. This makes it easy to find the perfect match for your unique space.

Easy to Do

Cabinet refinishing is an easy DIY project and it’s much more affordable than buying new cabinets. The key to a successful project is proper prep and planning. Start by protecting the surrounding surfaces with plastic sheeting or building paper (which is more eco-friendly). This will protect your countertops, appliances, table and chairs from dust and sanding during the process.

The next step is to sand the existing finish down to the raw wood. You can use either a hand-held sanding sponge or an orbital sander. Be sure to sand the edges of each cabinet and any nooks and crannies to make them smooth. Once you’ve sanded the cabinet, clean it with furniture cleaner or a designated stripper in a well-ventilated area. After you’ve cleaned the surface, sand it again with medium-grit sandpaper and then 180-grit sandpaper on the orbital sander to smooth it out. Then vacuum the cabinet and tack rag off all remaining dust.

When it comes to painting, it’s important to choose a high-quality paint and primer that’s made for cabinets. Using standard acrylic or latex paint will eventually peel and chip, especially in high-traffic areas. Also, be sure to apply several coats of paint and wait for each one to dry before applying another. It’s also a good idea to experiment with your colors on a piece of scrap wood before you commit to any final decision.

If you want to give your cabinets a darker look, staining is a great option. The staining process is more involved than painting, but it’s still relatively easy. You can buy staining kits at most home improvement stores, and you’ll need to follow the instructions for your specific type of cabinet. Once you’ve stained your cabinet, it’s a good idea to wipe it down with mineral spirits and then tack-rag off the residue. Once it’s dry, you can re-tack the cabinet and apply a protective varnish.

The Advantages Of Insulation For Homes And Buildings

Fiona Brewer Insulations , , , ,

Insulation reduces air movement, keeping heat in during winter and cooling in summer. It can be installed during construction or added to an existing home during a renovation project. Energy efficiency and sustainability are no longer just buzzwords – they’re essential to our future. Insulation Tulsa is one of the most important components of any building.

Reduces Energy Bills

insulation

Insulation can drastically reduce your energy bills. It prevents heat from escaping during the winter and keeps cool air in during the summer. This allows you to use less energy to maintain a comfortable temperature, which saves money and helps the environment.

The amount of energy that is used to heat and cool buildings and homes is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, which leads to climate change. With the ever-increasing costs of heating oil and cooling electricity, it makes sense that people want to find ways to lower their energy bills. Fortunately, home insulation is a great way to do so without breaking the bank.

Many newer buildings are already well insulated because building codes have been getting stricter over the years, but older homes that haven’t been updated can be significantly more energy efficient by implementing insulation. Adding insulation in walls, attics, and floors can make a significant difference. The type of insulation you choose depends on where you live and the types of weather you experience most frequently, but all insulation aims to accomplish the same goal: to slow or disrupt the transfer of heat in and out of the home or building.

Another way to help lower your energy bills is by sealing any gaps and cracks around your doors, windows, electrical outlets, and plumbing penetrations. This will prevent unwanted air from entering your home, which can lead to higher energy bills and increased wear and tear on appliances.

Insulation can also help to reduce noise in the home or building. This is especially important for those who live near a busy street or have noisy neighbors. Insulation can block out a lot of the noise and make the living space more quiet and relaxing.

If you’re interested in learning more about how a home or building can be more energy efficient, contact our team today. We can come and perform a comprehensive home energy assessment using thermal imaging to identify the areas that could be improved with insulation.

Investing in new insulation is an investment that can pay for itself by reducing your energy bills. It doesn’t take long for the upfront cost to be completely offset by the savings on your energy bills.

Increases Home Value

Insulation adds value to your home and makes it more appealing to potential buyers when the time comes for you to sell. It also saves energy so you can lower your utility bills, and it reduces noise by acting as a sound barrier. This means you won’t have to crank up your air conditioning as often, which makes it a more comfortable home all year round.

Adding insulation is one of the best things you can do to improve your home, and it’s usually a very affordable upgrade. It’s typically more cost-effective than many other upgrades that you may do to your home such as replacing the heating and cooling system or a new roof. In addition, insulation pays for itself in energy savings within a few years, meaning you’ll have more money to spend on your next project.

When it comes to choosing the right insulation for your home, the type of product you choose depends on the climate where you live and the type of building you have. For example, if you have brick walls you need a different type of insulation than if you have wood walls. Also, be sure to choose insulation that’s safe for your family and doesn’t contain chemicals such as formaldehyde.

Another reason why you should consider insulation is that it helps protect your home against fires and insect infestations. Some types of insulation have special properties that prevent fires from spreading and act as a repellant for insects such as termites and wood-eating ants. In addition, the insulation acts as a barrier to moisture, which prevents mold and water damage.

While the benefits of insulating your home may seem obvious, it’s important to remember that when you are considering this type of upgrade, you need to think about the future and what will attract the most qualified buyers. For instance, many people are looking for an environmentally conscious home and will be more likely to pay a premium for a house that is efficient and well-insulated. It’s estimated that a well-insulated home can increase its value by up to 5 percent.

Protects Against Fires & Insects

Insulation is a thermal barrier that slows the transfer of heat, so your home or building stays cool in summer and warm in winter. This lowers energy bills because your heating and cooling systems don’t have to work as hard. Insulation often pays for itself in reduced energy bills within a year.

All insulators have the same basic property of slowing the flow of heat. However, the type of material used in a specific insulation determines its fire safety properties. Fluffy, combustible insulation such as cotton, wood, or paper may easily smolder and help fuel a fire that can spread quickly through an attic or crawl space. Insulation made of non-combustible materials such as cellulose, rock wool, or metal, on the other hand, can slow a fire’s progress by reducing its flame propagation.

Cellulose insulation, for example, is made of recycled newspaper and can be treated with nontoxic borate and ammonium sulfate for added fire resistance. This also makes it resistant to moisture, fungus, and mold growth. The same chemicals used to make cellulose more fire-resistant are also good for controlling insect infestations.

An insulation is a non-combustible mineral wool product that resists the spread of fires and is moisture resistant. It’s easy to dry if it gets wet from a roof leak or flood, and resists mold and mildew growth as well.

A poorly insulated home is a fire hazard and can be difficult for firefighters to extinguish because the fire often moves too fast through unprotected spaces. Adding insulation and sealing cracks to limit air leaks will help ensure that your home or business has enough fire-resistant protection. A well-insulated home will also reduce the risk of damage from lightning strikes or electrical short circuits. In addition, insulating your walls and ceilings with high-performance products will prevent water from entering your structure through cracks in the shell or joints of your house. This will protect the integrity of your home and help reduce maintenance costs over time. Insulation can be incorporated into new construction or retrofitted during renovations and other home improvements.

Reduces Noise

Insulation doesn’t just keep a house cozy during the winter and cool during the summer, it also serves to reduce outside noise infiltration. Most insulation, including fiberglass batts, cellulose, and spray foam, is effective at reducing sound transmission. However, there are differences in performance between products and it is important to use the right type for your home or building.

It’s best to include a high-performance product when constructing your home, but if this isn’t possible, good insulation can be retrofitted in the ceilings and walls of existing homes. This can greatly reduce energy bills and help protect your home from insects, fires, and other issues that can arise over time.

Having adequate insulation in your home or building is a simple way to reduce the need for artificial heating and cooling, which leads to lower energy bills and less environmental impact. This is because when the need for heat or air conditioning is reduced, less fossil fuel is burned, which reduces emissions of carbon dioxide and other pollutants that contribute to global warming and acid rain.

Another advantage of insulation is that it also helps to reduce sound, which can have a positive impact on your health. Noise can be caused by a variety of sources, including traffic and machinery, voices, and televisions. Good insulation can help to reduce both airborne and vibration noise, with acoustic or soundproof insulation being the most effective for reducing vibration noise.

The sponge-like nature of acoustic or sound-proofing insulation means that it absorbs noise rather than reflecting it into the room, which can make your home a quieter place. This type of insulation is usually referred to as “soft” insulation and it can be installed in the walls or ceilings of your home or building.

Cellulose insulation, which is often made from finely shredded newspaper, is an excellent choice for this purpose as it provides very good acoustic properties. It can be blown into the attic or walls of your home, but it’s not typically a DIY project as special equipment is needed to handle the material. However, it’s one of the most cost-effective types of insulation for reducing noise.