Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

2023-06-09T14:35:00

(BPT) – When you look at a deck, what is the first thing you see? Odds are it’s the railings that catch your eye before anything else. While railings provide an obvious and necessary safety function, they also serve an important aesthetic role by creating a decorative frame for an outdoor space and defining the setting’s personality and style. Following are some expert tips for selecting the right railing look for your outdoor oasis:

Think ahead

While railing may be installed toward the end of a decking project, it is a key design element that should be considered from the outset. Ideally, decking and railing decisions should be made simultaneously — as a purposeful pairing.

Consider views and privacy

If you want to enjoy the view beyond your deck, look for railings that you will easily be able to see through. The Trex Signature^® railing collection offers glass panels or infill with thin balusters finished in black that tend to blend into the environment, putting more visual emphasis on the natural surroundings. Conversely, if you have neighbors who live close enough to see onto your deck, you may want to consider railings with thicker posts or more tightly spaced balusters to enhance privacy.

Aim high and low

When choosing railing, look for high-performance and low-maintenance materials so that you’ll be able to spend more time enjoying your deck rather than maintaining it. Although a classic option, wood railing requires frequent staining and sealing and is prone to rot and decay. Aluminum and composite offer durable, attractive and versatile options that are easy to work with and maintain.

Showcase your style

Selecting railing color and style should be fun, but it can also be overwhelming considering the myriad available options. To simplify things, use one of the following approaches:

• Coordinate – Choose railing in the same shade as your decking for a well-coordinated look.
• Contrast – Create visual impact by pairing your decking with railing in a contrasting but complementary color.
• Customize – Mix colors and materials, such as combining dark aluminum railing and balusters with white composite posts, for a dramatic, distinctive design.

For perfect pairings, Trex^® offers a Decking & Railing Duos tool on its website, which features designer-curated decking and railing combinations.

Factor in function

One of the most popular trends right now — especially among homeowners who like to entertain outdoors — is “cocktail railing.” This design approach uses a deck board as a top rail to create a flat surface ledge at just the right height for holding drinks and plates. By using boards that match the decking, you can achieve a look that perfectly complements your home’s deck while making great use of the space.

Light it up

Enhance the beauty of your railing and lengthen the time you can spend enjoying your deck by adding lighting to railing posts and caps. This added illumination will amp up the ambiance, along with its safety and security. Consider LED dimmer options to maximize energy efficiency. For ultimate convenience, choose a system with a WiFi controller so you can control your lights from anywhere, anytime.

As one of the most visible elements of a deck, the railing you choose will have a major impact on the overall look and feel of your outdoor space. For more tips and outdoor living inspiration, visit Trex.com.

2023-06-08T07:01:00

(BPT) – Are you looking for a way to update your home that will make a positive change to your daily routine? Despite being the most highly trafficked area in the house and one that can greatly impact a home’s value, bathrooms are often left outdated. However, with high mortgage rates keeping homeowners in their current homes and remodeling combined with a new pandemic-fueled focus on hygiene in the home, the bathroom is emerging as a priority home refresh project.

A bathroom is a place people spend time doing daily self-care, but recently bathrooms have also become personal escapes from the world’s distractions. Common ways to refresh your bathroom include repainting walls in a fresh hue, adding modern lighting, replacing outdated faucets, and swapping out lackluster showerheads. Homeowners can elevate their bathroom into a space of comfort and wellness with upgrades that blend the latest in design, technology and eco-friendly features. Which is why it is important not to forget the toilet.

Updates that elevate.

Many toilets are in desperate need of a replacement to increase water efficiency and functionality. Others simply need a modern update. But most people do not realize how much their toilet can level up their own hygiene and self-care. Bidets are incredibly popular overseas in Europe and Asia and are found in the best hotels, restaurants and spas across the globe. It is no wonder why, according to design experts, bidets are one of the top bathroom trends for 2023 here in the U.S.

There are several bidet options based on your needs, space and budget. Adding a toilet with a bidet or bidet seat is an impactful way to add luxury and wellness to tired bathrooms without a complete renovation. In fact, replacing the toilet with a new model is a simple task that can often be done without a plumber, and adding a bidet seat to your toilet is an easy DIY project that can be finished in less than an hour.

Bidet benefits

Self-care and cleanliness are important for people of all ages, especially as the world emerges from the pandemic. Bidet technologies allow you to create a personalized cleansing experience in your home. Noteworthy bidets and smart toilets have advanced features like touchless technology and self-cleaning capabilities that reduce the spread of germs passed from flushing and wiping.

When the cleansing cycle is activated, a streamlined wand extends from beneath the seat to provide an adjustable flow of clean, warm aerated water for an exceptionally comfortable cleansing experience. The bidet then dries you with warm air, which nearly eliminates the need for toilet paper. Built-in deodorizers neutralize odors through a carbonized air filter, ensuring a fresh experience for everyone in your home and minimizing the spread of germs. Additional features that automatically raise the toilet seat and provide a night light add safety and convenience. These are especially useful for children or people with mobility issues.

Bidet seats like the WASHLET S550e also include comfort-first features found on TOTO smart toilets, like a heated seat and wireless remote for adjusting water temperature and pressure. They are also easy to install on most existing toilets. If you are looking to completely replace your old commode, look for a combined unit like the Drake WASHLET+ C5, a high-efficiency toilet with a WASHLET bidet seat, or the modern-styled silhouette of the NEOREST line of smart toilets, which deliver the latest tech with a sleek style that accentuates any bathroom aesthetic.

High-efficiency toilets from TOTO with bidets have pre-cleaning and advanced flushing features that cut down the need for harsh chemicals in cleaning the bathroom and reduce the need for toilet paper by 75%, making them a healthier, eco-friendly choice. The WASHLET, WASHLET+ and NEOREST clean themselves following each use with TOTO’s EWATER+ (electrolyzed water), which mists and cleans the wand and bowl after every use.

Bathroom refresh inspiration

Updating your toilet with a bidet is a worthwhile investment for people choosing to stay in their current home and improve their most in-demand space to keep their loved ones clean and comfortable. Whether you want an all-in-one smart toilet or a bidet seat that fits on your existing toilet, there is a bidet option that will help you create a cleaner, more luxurious experience in time for summer. Learn more at TOTOUSA.com.

2023-06-05T14:15:00

(BPT) – According to Houzz, more than half of homeowners (55%) are planning to take on home renovation and improvement projects in 2023. From outdoor maintenance to interior refreshes, spring is the perfect time to get started on these projects. Leveraging and using a high-quality hybrid sealant can help you quickly and affordably prepare your home for the warmer months ahead. Before summer arrives, here are five home fix-ups to tackle with a hybrid sealant:

Seal around windows and doors.

Over time, exposure to various weather and climate conditions, including extreme heat and cold, can break down exterior sealants. Make sure your windows and doors are properly sealed to help improve the energy efficiency of your home, and lower utility bills during the summer months. When working on exterior windows, doors, siding and trim, select a high-performing, waterproof and weatherproof sealant specifically formulated to withstand the elements without cracking, crumbling or losing adhesion over time. DAP’s AMP Window, Door, Siding & Trim, for example, is an advanced hybrid sealant ideal for exterior application that provides exceptional weatherability and flexibility and is offered in both a white and crystal clear option.

Prepare for summer storms.

Summer thunderstorms can wreak havoc on your roof and gutters. Gutters have the important job of collecting and directing rain water so it can drain properly without harming your landscape or home. Ignoring a leak in your gutter could lead to unwelcome damage. It could be immediate, like water seeping in your basement, or it could take a slow toll, ruining paint and even rotting wood. Fortunately, fixing a leaky gutter isn’t difficult. After cleaning out any debris, check your gutters for leak spots and repair them using a sealant that provides a 100% weatherproof and waterproof seal so you know the repair will last over time.

Repair concrete cracks.

Cracks in concrete driveways, patios or walkways are unsightly and when ignored, can become major problems that are time-consuming and expensive to fix. The good news is when you catch them early — small concrete cracks are easy to repair yourself! Fill narrow cracks and gaps with a concrete sealant such as AMP Concrete & Masonry, which provides a 100% weatherproof and waterproof seal, is self-tooling, making it ideal for horizontal repairs, and has a fast 1-hour paint and rain ready time.

Touch up the tile.

Tile has endured through the decades as a popular building material for bathrooms and kitchens. But over time, small gaps and cracks can open between tiles and cause water to seep in and mold and mildew to grow. For kitchen and bathroom projects, use a sealant that’s specifically designed for these applications to provide waterproof repairs and resist the growth of mold and mildew, such as AMP Kitchen, Bath & Plumbing. While most silicone sealants must be applied on dry surfaces and have a 12-hour rain/water ready time, this hybrid sealant provides a 100% waterproof seal with the ability to be applied on wet or damp surfaces and is water ready in just 30 minutes. It’s also specifically formulated to prevent mold and mildew growth for a lifetime guarantee, keeping your sealant clean and fresh for the life of the bead.

Prevent pests.

With warmer weather comes an increase in pests, so checking for any exterior holes or cracks in your brick, concrete, stucco or siding is a good idea before summer hits. Household pests such as ants, cockroaches, and rodents can easily find their way inside a home through small openings. Not only are they a nuisance, but they can also cause damage to the home’s structure. Rodents can chew through walls, electrical wires and insulation, while termites can destroy wood and other building materials. By filling in gaps and cracks on your home’s exterior with a hybrid sealant, homeowners can help prevent these pests from gaining access.

For more spring home maintenance tips and product info, visit DAP.com.

2023-05-31T01:01:00

(BPT) – Just in time for warmer weather, step outside and imagine your ideal outdoor space. Create an area that complements your lifestyle and encourages you to spend more time outdoors. Now is the perfect opportunity to make your dreams a reality — all you need is the right design plan for you.

“Interest in outdoor living is at an all-time high,” says Joe Raboine, vice president of design at Belgard Outdoor Living. “The ideal outdoor space means different things to different people, so it’s important for homeowners and contractors to work hand in hand to create and build their vision.”

Here are tips to help you imagine your space.

1. Focus on functionality

Imagine how you want to use your outdoor area. Do you need shade during the day when you’re entertaining or reading outside? Install a shade sail or pergola with curtains to block out the sun. Dream of hosting large gatherings? Add built-in seating that also functions as storage, or planters to double as seats. Want to use your space at night? Think about lighting and insect deterrent. Imagine creating culinary delights? Consider equipment you want — a grill, pizza oven or full kitchen setup. To separate areas for multiple uses, consider modular systems arranged for ideal functionality.

Need help envisioning your new, improved patio? Visit Rooms.Belgard.com to start designing your dream yard based on your needs, style and vision, or browse their gallery of completed rooms.

“Belgard Rooms offers a new approach to outdoor living, focusing on templated designs and how shape, color and texture work together to make the design process easier,” says Raboine. “Once you narrow your selection, not only will the contractor understand your style and budget, but they can choose to flip the room to our Belgard Design Studio to have a semi-custom plan made tailored to their needs.”

2. Use your outdoor space year-round

Maximize your patio by extending the time you can enjoy being outdoors. Consider adding a fire pit, since everyone loves sitting around a fire to roast marshmallows, share stories and spend time with family and friends. Pergolas can add warmth when coupled with sturdy outdoor drapes.

“Don’t let the end of summer keep you indoors,” Raboine adds. “A thoughtful design can increase the use of your patio even during cooler months.”

3. Spruce up your design

Making outdoor areas as attractive as they are functional is easier than you think, especially if you play with colors and patterns. Replace older pieces of furniture and invest in an outdoor sectional, love seat or chairs designed to handle the elements. Dress your outdoor room as you would an indoor room, giving it a cozy vibe with pillows, greenery and string lights. Get creative with outdoor flooring by creating visually pleasing patterns, color and textured surfaces with patio pavers.

4. Try mixed materials

Hardscapes are a popular choice, as they include an array of options including interlocking pavers, permeable pavers and porcelain pavers. Concrete pavers come in a wide variety of styles, helping you find one to fit your home’s aesthetic. Permeable pavers are installed with layers of varying-sized stone or aggregate that filter and direct storm water to underground aquifers, mimicking the way natural land absorbs water. Porcelain pavers create a contemporary outdoor look with significant functionality and durability. Each type offers different benefits, allowing you to select the right materials for your home, at different price points.

Add elements like wood, stone, metals, plants and fabrics in your design to create visual and textural interest.

5. Create an oasis

Stepping outside, you should feel you’ve entered a mini paradise. Privacy screens can divide spaces and create seclusion, whether made from wood, vinyl lattice, pre-made panels or fabric screen. Beyond visual privacy, try creating audio privacy, too. Any size water feature can soften background noise, from a fountain to a waterfall.

“Water features are a creative way to dampen sound from neighbors and create a cozy environment for conversations,” adds Raboine. “Water sounds are also pleasing and create a relaxing experience.”

Visualize the possibilities using technology

To pinpoint your vision, try Belgard Rooms augmented reality (AR) feature. Currently, 35 AR Rooms can be viewed on any device and “glued” into your outdoor space, allowing you to spin, move, scale and walk through templated outdoor rooms. This helps streamline the discovery and selection process for outdoor projects with contractors.

“Homeowners enjoy the interactive experience of pairing hardscaping products with their home’s style,” said Raboine. “This technology gets homeowners closer to seeing and trying out different outdoor living plans, simplifying the design process.”

Visit Belgard.com to get started.

2023-05-31T07:01:00

(BPT) – As we quickly approach warmer months, homeowners are getting ready for their summertime favorites, including spending more time outdoors and entertaining for backyard barbecues. However, they should be on guard from uninvited house guests: pests.

Pests, like spiders and ants, are often considered to be just a nuisance, but some can pose a threat to your property. According to Groundworks, spiders, carpenter ants and cockroaches are among the biggest pest threats homeowners face.

While pests can find their way into homes year-round, some seasons are worse than others. According to research from the University of Washington, outside of the tropics, insects reproduce at higher rates in warmer weather, so you’ll see more bugs during spring and summer.

Don’t wait for pest problems to crop up at your home and ruin the summertime fun. Follow these five steps to protect your home and family from pests.

1. Seal up entry points

Pests like ants, spiders and cockroaches are small and crafty, and are able to enter your home through tiny cracks, gaps and holes. Make it harder for bugs to get in by sealing up entry points with caulk or weather stripping in your home’s walls, doors and windows. Don’t forget to inspect areas where pipes and wires enter your home and seal any entry points you find.

2. Take a proactive approach to pest control

Before you have a major summertime pest problem on your hands, take a proactive approach by having a line-up of products at the ready like insecticides, traps and repellents.

There are a variety of pest control products available depending on your specific pest needs. For example, Raid Essentials offers a complete line of products to target specific insects with plant-based ingredients. Whether you’re dealing with ants, roaches, house flies, mosquitoes or spiders, you can rest assured that you’re using products from a brand backed by over 65 years of insect research. Remember to read the label and follow instructions for best results.

3. Emphasize tidying up

Keeping your home clean is a simple but effective pest preventative. Pests are attracted to food, water and shelter, so it’s critical to keep your home extra clean and tidy in the warmer weather to prevent becoming an attractive sanctuary for bugs.

The kitchen attracts a wide variety of insects, and open or improperly stored food can quickly turn the kitchen into a breeding ground for bugs. Make sure your food is stored tightly in sealed containers or purchase small packages that can be used in a shorter period of time. Keep your kitchen and dining room free of crumbs and spills by regularly vacuuming floors and wiping down counters and tables.

4. Maintain your yard

Outdoors in their own territory, pests can breed undeterred, creating more unwanted visitors that can invade your home. Maintain your yard so it doesn’t become a bug haven. Make sure to remove any piles of debris or yard waste where pests can hide and thrive away from prying eyes.

Trees and bushes that touch your home create bridges for ants, spiders, flies and other pests to enter. Make sure to trim overgrown bushes and trees regularly.

5. Eliminate standing water

Mosquitoes lay eggs in pooled water, so make sure to eliminate any sources of standing water. Inspect your home and fix leaky faucets, drains and pipes. In areas of the home that are always damp, like your basement, run a dehumidifier.

Don’t forget to check your yard to make sure gutters flow smoothly and aren’t blocked by leaves and waste. If needed, extend downspouts farther from your home to improve drainage. Make sure empty pots, grill covers, tires and other items that can collect water are emptied regularly.

Don’t let pests keep you from enjoying your home during the warmer months. Using these five tips, you can take active steps to help prevent and eliminate pests so you can enjoy the weather without worry.

2023-05-30T16:01:00

(BPT) – If you appreciate the taste and experience of fresh produce, it may be time to consider cultivating your own home garden. Whether you have a spacious backyard or a small balcony, you can grow your own fruits and vegetables and enjoy unparalleled taste, texture and freshness without driving to the grocery store.

Ferry-Morse — one of the largest U.S. gardening brands — wants to set home gardeners up for success by highlighting the top five benefits of growing your own fruits and vegetables.

1. Freshness that can’t be beat

Produce can’t get fresher than what you grow and pick in your own backyard! Grocery store produce is chosen for its hardiness because it has to endure long journeys and handling before it reaches the store, where it may sit on display for days. On the other hand, when you grow your own fruits, vegetables and herbs, you control the harvest, so you can pick them at the peak ripeness and enjoy that fresh-off-the-vine taste.

2. Nutritious and delicious

Homegrown fruits and vegetables are also more nutritious than their store-bought counterparts. That’s because crops begin to deteriorate as soon as they’re picked. The farther it needs to travel, the more nutritional content is lost. At home, you can harvest your fresh ingredients as needed, ensuring your meal is made with the crispest and most nutritious produce possible.

3. Boosted taste and flavor

If you did a side-by-side taste test of a homegrown tomato compared to a store-bought one, chances are you’ll notice the one from your backyard tastes better and is more flavorful. You’ll enjoy a bolder flavor when fruit and vegetables are allowed to fully ripen on the vine. Homegrown produce allows you to experience a crop’s true essence and provides a culinary experience that is sure to delight your senses.

4. A feast that won’t empty your wallet

By growing your own, you’ll save quite a bit of money. While there are initial expenses when setting up your garden for the first time, according to Better Homes & Gardens, the average home garden yields $677 worth of produce. Once you set up a garden, you’ll have the necessary tools to nurture it season after season, creating a self-sustaining food cycle.

Making the initial investment in live plants and seeds will benefit you in the long run, as you won’t have to spend your dollars on store-bought produce that can rise in cost throughout the seasons. To get started, find a reputable brand like Ferry-Morse that delivers live baby Plantlings directly from their nursery to your door. For first-time gardeners, check out their Garden Starter Kits, which include 12 baby plants to get your garden going. There are over 40 kits to choose from, covering a wide range of culinary and floral themes to fit your taste and lifestyle preferences.

5. Connect with nature and reap the rewards

Gardening is a fantastic stress reliever that allows you to connect with nature and discover the joy of maintaining your own little patch of Eden. You can escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, get your hands dirty and watch your plants grow into robust crops. Take in the soothing sights, sounds and scents of your home garden and reap the benefits.

Planting and nurturing a garden is easier than you think and offers so many benefits to your palate, wallet and well-being. So grab your gardening gloves and spade and start your journey to a rewarding and nurturing harvest.

Try a homegrown meal for yourself

One of the many joys of summer is fresh, sweet corn on the cob, and growing it yourself makes it even more enjoyable! While always delicious steamed or boiled, cooking your homegrown corn on the grill can give it a charred flavor that will complement your favorite barbecued meals.

For an easy recipe, start by prepping basil butter by adding chopped basil, garlic and a bit of sea salt to your butter in a food processor, pulsing to combine. Lightly brush your corn with olive oil and sprinkle salt to taste, placing the corn on your grill once it’s hot. Rotate your corn using tongs every couple of minutes until the kernels are blistered and bright yellow. Once your corn is ready, spread a generous amount of your basil butter on each piece and enjoy!

Visit FerryMorse.com for everything you need to get started, plus tips and resources to help you enjoy your garden more than ever this year.

2023-05-25T07:01:00

(BPT) – If you live in hurricane-affected areas of the country, and you own a pool, it’s important to know how to best protect your pool investment. Taking a few simple steps before a hurricane hits can leave the pool in better shape after the storm passes, and may help you avoid the worst of the damage. While learning how to prepare your pool for a hurricane, take some time to review the steps you should take afterward, so you can enjoy your pool once again.

Preparing for a hurricane

Don’t just guess what might help your pool during a storm. These tips come from the experts at Leslie’s, who help homeowners care for their pools in any weather.

• Don’t lower the water level: Elevated water tables caused by rain and flooding can pop a pool out of the ground. Keeping it full weighs it down.
• Protect equipment: Turn off power and cover electrical components in tightly sealed, waterproof plastic. If flooding is expected, disconnect ground-level electrical items, such as the pump, and temporarily store them somewhere elevated and dry.
• Prepare the area: Remove or secure loose items that could blow away or fall into the pool (chairs, tables, pool toys, etc.). Although tempting, don’t put furniture or other large objects into the pool. This can cause staining and damage to pool surfaces after the storm passes.
• Add chlorine: Superchlorinating your pool before a storm can help fight off contaminants introduced into the water, and will come in handy if you’re without power for a few days.
• Keep the pool uncovered: During a hurricane, large debris and high winds can easily ruin your pool cover. You’ll likely get debris into your pool, regardless of whether it’s covered or not — so protect your cover by leaving it off the pool.
  

Cleaning up after a hurricane

When the storm has passed and you have the “all clear” to return home and resume normal activities, follow these steps to get your pool safe to enjoy with your family once again.

Don’t completely drain the pool: Again, elevated water tables following a severe storm event may cause damage to an inground pool. If necessary, you can lower the water level to its normal position (halfway up the skimmer) with the help of a submersible pump or by backwashing the filter (once you get the equipment up and running).

In most cases, it’s possible to clean up what you have, and the following tips will help you get your sparkling pool back. On the other hand, if you’re dealing with ocean contamination or a situation where the water is not recoverable, always consult with a pool service professional first to avoid permanently damaging the pool structure.

Remove leaves and large debris: Use a skimmer net or leaf rake to scoop out as much debris as possible. Clean out the pump strainer and skimmer baskets.

Restore power to equipment: Reconnect equipment, remove waterproofing measures, and inspect all equipment for signs of impact or water damage. If your equipment is dry and appears to be in good condition, you can restore the power when it’s safe to do so. If not, seek the advice of a pool service professional.

Circulation and filtration: If you’re able to run the pump and filter system, run it 24/7 until the water turns clear again. If the water is especially dirty, you may need to clean the filter a few times since it may quickly fill with debris.

• While the pump is running, brush and vacuum the walls and floor. You may need to do this a few times, depending on the pool’s condition. An automatic pool cleaner can help.
• Balance and shock the pool. As soon as you’re able to use the pump, add chlorine to the water to keep contaminants under control. Balancing the water first is ideal, but may not be feasible for extremely soiled pools. In these cases, add the chlorine first, then balance later. Most local pool stores offer professional water testing to help you gauge the status of your water chemistry. Leslie’s offers free in-store AccuBlue^® water tests, which precisely measure 10 water chemistry factors and provide step-by-step recommendations for recovering your post-storm pool water.
• Use enzymes and clarifiers to help clear up the water faster. Severe storms can bring lots of microscopic debris into the water and make it cloudy. Use enzymes and clarifiers to help clear up the water faster.

Following these steps before and after a hurricane should help you keep your pool in good shape — or at least help restore water conditions quickly — so you can get back to your normal routine.

2023-05-18T07:01:00

(BPT) – If your region faces the risk of wildfires during the hot, dry summer months, you may already have an emergency plan in place. But once the danger has passed, there is a list of things you need to do to help get your home and your daily routine back to normal. If you’re a pool owner, you’ll want to spend some time cleaning up your pool as soon as possible. This helps avoid the long-term issues caused by soot and ash in the pool.

Soot and ash can cause staining problems for your liner, as well as poor water quality in your pool. The faster you can remove it, the less chance you’ll have of dealing with permanent pool discoloration.

Leslie’s has some quick tips to help you restore your pool after a fire.

1. Clear out surface debris

First, use a skimmer net to remove as much ash and debris as possible while it’s still suspended at the water surface. Here’s a pro tip: cover the net with an old T-shirt, pillowcase or other cloth to help you trap finer particles in the net.

2. Circulate and filter the water

After you’ve removed as much surface debris as you can, you’ll want to get to work on cleaning the water. Make sure the water level is about halfway up the mouth of the skimmer before running your equipment. Clean out the pump strainer and skimmer baskets, then run the pump 24/7 until the water is clear again. During the process, clean or backwash your filter as needed according to manufacturer recommendations. For large amounts of soot and ash in the water, you may need to clean the filter more frequently. If you’re having issues getting the pool water to clear up, try adding a clarifier to help your filter work more effectively.

3. Remove settled debris

To help prevent staining, remove any debris that may have settled to the bottom of the pool. Vigorously brush the walls, steps and floor of the pool to loosen debris. Then, manually vacuum the pool or use an automatic pool cleaner to remove settled debris. For large amounts of settled ash, you may want to vacuum first, then brush, then vacuum again to avoid stirring up all the fine soot while brushing.

4. Restore your pool water balance

After your pool has been thoroughly cleaned, the next step is to balance your pool’s water. First, test the water to make sure it’s balanced. Soot and ash can have a major impact on water chemistry — especially the pH. To get the most accurate water test results, bring a water sample to your local pool store for professional testing. Leslie’s offers free in-store AccuBlue^® water testing, which precisely measures 10 different aspects of water chemistry and provides detailed recommendations on how to get your water back on track. Shock the pool once the water is balanced, then check to make sure your chlorine dispenser is full.

5. Address staining

For any lingering stains and discoloration you may see on your pool walls or floor, try a chemical stain and scale remover or a stain eraser designed for your pool type. For extreme staining and damage, you may need to consider an acid wash for your plaster or concrete pool, or you may want to replace your pool’s vinyl liner.

What to do if you have no electricity

If you don’t yet have working electricity at your home to run your pump and filter, first remove as much debris as possible from the pool using manual cleaning tools like a skimmer net. Then, shock the pool and use a pool brush to agitate the water — this will help to distribute the chlorine throughout your pool. This will help keep the water sanitized until your electricity is back up and running. Avoid balancing the water until you’re able to use the pool pump to help circulate and distribute the chemicals.

Once the fire has passed and you’re ready to start restoring your pool, the experts at Leslie’s can help you get your pool clean, safe and swim-ready once again. For more tips and information on pool recovery, check out their resource center at LesliesPool.com.

2023-05-17T08:01:00

(BPT) – A lot goes into planning and preparing for a long-distance move. And while relief comes once your boxes are on the truck, you may have one final push to drive cross-country to your new address.

Because you may otherwise arrive before your belongings, why not embrace the time — and road ahead — by turning your relocation into a national parks adventure?

Sure, it’s tempting to put the pedal to the metal when you move cross-country — but don’t. You will not regret a few stops — or even a detour — along the way. It’s on the open road and amid the great outdoors where some of the best memories are made.

United Van Lines is here to share the amenities and natural resources available to help you settle into your new neighborhood with interactive, downloadable and shareable national park guides.

Still need convincing? Check out the top five reasons you should turn your long-distance move into a national parks adventure:

1. To prepare your body and mind

Granting access to some of the country’s most breathtaking, pristine and remote landscapes, national parks are remarkably beautiful places to reflect, get grounded and prepare your body and mind for the next chapter in life.

No matter where your move takes you, nature’s bounty can help you clear your head and be at peace.

2. To stretch your legs

Antsy kids? Antsy pets? Antsier, crabbier grownups? Truth be told, a long-distance road trip can be as fun as it is taxing. You know what helps? Keeping the “Are we there yet?” at bay.

With interpretive centers, miles upon miles of hiking trails, incredible wildlife sightings and so much more, walks, strolls and hikes through national parks are an ideal way to relax restless legs. And the breathtaking landscapes? They’re just icing on the cake.

3. As a backdrop for postcard-worthy picnics

Just like you need to stretch your legs, you also need to eat. Rather than pull over at drab rest stops, why not picnic at a national park? Whether it’s a scenic pull-off or a proper pavilion, national parks are filled with pitch-perfect mealtime panoramas. Just remember to pack snacks and sandwiches of your own since options within park boundaries are slim to none.

4. To explore America’s backyard

When you make a cross-country move, you travel through “America’s backyard.” You may find yourself meandering through villages, crisscrossing rivers and intersecting everything from mountain passes to dense forests and flower-stippled meadows where the jaw-dropping beauty of the United States unfolds.

Look at your long-distance move not only as an adventure, but also as a unique opportunity to explore new and tucked-away destinations of incalculable worth.

5. To help you settle in

Once the boxes are unpacked and your furniture is positioned just so, you may be ready to get out and explore your surroundings. If you live near any of these natural wonders, lucky you! Otherwise, they may afford a quick weekend trip or inspire a getaway down the line. Whatever the circumstance, United Van Lines’ national park guides are here to spark your imagination and sense of exploration.

Looking for more ways to streamline and simplify your long-distance move? Visit the United Van Lines blog for expert tips and tricks.

2023-05-16T08:01:00

(BPT) – After years of home improvement enthusiasm, homeowners are approaching renovations differently. Inflation means projects cost more, but rather than shelving their home improvement dreams, homeowners are being strategic by choosing renovations that are budget-friendly with a focus on functional spaces, like the bathroom.

Case in point: Nearly 28% of American homeowners plan to spend “significantly” less compared to last year, according to a survey by Today’s Homeowner. However, the vast majority of homeowners — 90% — said they were planning to tackle at least one home renovation project this year.

With budgets top of mind, many people may think a new bathroom is off the table. While traditional bathroom additions and remodels can be costly due to things like demolition and complex plumbing configurations, above-floor technology is making bathroom updates more accessible and affordable than ever.

Above-floor macerating systems

You can cut costs considerably by using an up-flushing, macerating system from Saniflo. This technology operates above the floor, so you can install a bathroom virtually anywhere. You are no longer limited to spaces with existing below-floor plumbing or having to rip up flooring or demo concrete to install new plumbing.

How does this work? Saniflo’s compact upflush systems efficiently process and pump waste away to the nearest drain line or sewer system. This is ideal for spaces that do not have below-floor plumbing or where someone has previously told you a bathroom addition would be impossible, including basements, attics, garages, storage closets, pool houses and much more.

Saniflo offers different options depending on your needs. For half baths — meaning a bathroom with a toilet and sink, no shower or tub — the Saniaccess 2 is ideal. For full baths with a toilet, shower and tub, the Saniaccess 3 is the best choice. Learn more at Saniflo.com.

Saniflo’s above-floor plumbing macerating pump systems are a great option when you want to add or update a bathroom but don’t want to spend a lot of money or do a lot of demolition. To save even more money, consider these three additional ways to keep your home bathroom project low-cost.

Improve versus expand: Want a bigger space? Knocking down walls is messy, intensive work. If you want to expand the space, consider replacing a hinged door with a pocket door. A recessed medicine cabinet and bowed shower curtain can improve functionality while making spaces feel larger.

Lighten and brighten: A fresh coat of paint in a new hue is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to update a space. To further update the look, consider cleaning or repairing any white elements, such as scrubbing grout, redoing caulk and painting the ceiling. Fresh white details make everything look new.

Fix rather than replace: Instead of buying new, consider how you can repair and update existing features. For example, new bathroom vanities are costly, so what if you resurfaced or painted your current one and then updated the hardware with modern handles and drawer pulls? Another option is to shop secondhand to save and refresh bathroom fixtures yourself.

No one likes inflation but it doesn’t mean you have to put home improvement projects on hold. By looking for creative solutions that save time and money, you’ll be surprised just how much you can do while staying on budget.