6 Ways to Prepare Your Home for Summer Storms
As summer continues, so does the potential for severe weather, including thunderstorms, hurricanes, and heavy rainfall. Safeguard your home and family against the effects of summer storms with these 6 essential tips to prepare your home. Trim Trees and Shrubs: Overhanging branches can pose a significant risk during storms, potentially causing damage to your home or vehicles. Trim trees and shrubs near your house to minimize the risk of falling branches. Hire a professional to trim ones near power lines. Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Clear debris from gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage during heavy rainfall. Clogged gutters can lead to water backup and potential flooding in your home. Inspect Roof and Windows: Inspect your roof for any signs of damage or loose shingles that could become dislodged during high winds. Check windows for cracks or gaps and seal any areas where water could penetrate. Secure Outdoor Furniture and Decor: Secure outdoor furniture, grills, and decor items to prevent them from becoming projectiles in strong winds. Store lightweight items indoors or anchor them securely to the ground. Install Storm Shutters or Panels: Consider installing storm shutters or panels to protect windows and doors from flying debris and high winds. Alternatively, you can reinforce windows with plywood for temporary protection during storms. Check Sump Pump and Basement: Ensure your sump pump is in good working condition and test it regularly to prevent basement flooding during heavy rains. Consider installing a backup battery or generator in case of power outages.
Top 3 Outdoor Living Trends for 2024
As the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living continue to blur, 2024 promises an exciting array of trends that transform your outdoor spaces into true extensions of your home. From sleek outdoor kitchens to lush garden areas, here's a look at the top 3 outdoor living trends. Outdoor Kitchens: Where Cooking Meets Alfresco Living Outdoor kitchens have been gaining popularity in recent years, and in 2024, they're reaching new heights of sophistication and functionality. Gone are the days of basic grills. Trend Highlights: Integrated Appliances: homeowners are thinking beyond the grill with outdoor kitchens boasting built-in pizza ovens, smokers, and even kegerators. Luxurious Countertops: From sleek granite to durable quartzite, outdoor kitchen countertops are now as beautiful as practical, providing ample space for food prep and serving. Fire Pits: Cozying Up Under the Stars In 2024, fire pits are becoming more versatile and design-forward, with options for every style and space. Trend Highlights: Custom Designs: From sleek modern fire bowls to rustic stone pits, homeowners are embracing custom fire pits that reflect their aesthetic and complement their outdoor living areas. Multi-Functional Features: Some fire pits can now double as coffee tables with built-in seating, maximizing space and functionality in smaller outdoor areas. Garden Areas: Green Sanctuaries in the Great Outdoors In 2024, the importance of connecting with nature is driving a renewed interest in garden areas that serve as tranquil retreats within outdoor living spaces. Trend Highlights: Vertical Gardens: Homeowners are maximizing their space and adding visual interest with vertical gardens featuring a variety of plants, herbs, and succulents. Zen-Inspired Designs: To create a sense of serenity with minimalist garden designs, many homeowners have adapted Japanese-inspired elements like bamboo fencing, stone pathways, and tranquil water features. Pollinator Gardens: The growing interest in supporting local ecosystems and attracting beneficial wildlife has inspired many homeowners to plant pollinator gardens filled with native flowers and plants.
10 Essential Tips for Moving in the Summer
Summer is a popular time for moving, but it can also be one of the most challenging seasons due to the heat and busy schedules. By following these tips, you can make your summer move a breeze and start settling into your new home with ease. Visit your new home a day before move-in day to turn the air conditioning to a comfortable temperature, stock the refrigerator with water bottles, and stock the bathroom(s) with toilet paper and hand soap. Schedule your move during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, to avoid the scorching midday sun. Keep yourself and your moving crew hydrated by providing plenty of water and electrolyte drinks throughout the day. Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or packing paper and label boxes clearly to ensure they're handled with care. Pack heavier items in smaller boxes to prevent them from becoming too heavy to lift. Use blankets or towels to protect furniture from scratches and damage. Take the opportunity to declutter and donate items you no longer need or use. This will lighten your load and make unpacking easier. Consider hiring professional movers to help with the heavy lifting and transportation. They have the experience and equipment to make your move more efficient. Notify your utility companies of your move and schedule disconnection and reconnection dates for services, like electricity, water, and internet. Pack a separate box with essentials like toiletries, medications, snacks, and important documents you'll need on moving day. Moving can be physically and mentally exhausting, so take breaks often to rest and recharge.
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