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7 common spray foam insulation mistakes to avoid
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7 common spray foam insulation mistakes to avoid

In recent years, spray foam has proven to be a great insulating agent for homes. Like a multipurpose sealant, spray foams also belong to the category of practical repair and renovation tools, making it an ideal choice for homeowners who enjoy DIY projects. However, getting spray foam insulation done is a precision-based exercise, which is why one may make certain mistakes while doing it without professional assistance. Here are some spray foam insulation mistakes one must avoid: Neglecting proper ventilation Spray foam insulation tends to be half-baked unless proper ventilation is put in place to sort out certain issues. For example, without proper ventilation, the trapped air in the spray foam insulation layer leads to moisture buildup and condensation. These two problems lead to worse issues like mold growth on the wall and other surfaces where this insulation layer is applied. Mold growth not only compromises the insulation but is also incredibly unhygienic and can cause health issues for the occupants living or working in such a property. Heating the canisters too much Many people who apply spray foam insulation on their own believe that high temperatures on the canister will speed up the application process. However, this is a wrong notion. One must not heat the canisters beyond 100 degrees as that creates a risk of the canisters blowing off their caps and causing a huge, foam-filled mess all around. Ideally, the canister should be at room temperature when spraying it. If the insulation foam is being used in a place with cold temperatures, then one can use water tubs and multiple canisters to keep the foam from freezing. Using incorrect thickness Spray foam insulation works best when the person applying it uses the correct amount of material to create a thick insulation layer. Finding the right balance is key, as applying too little will lead to inadequate insulation (and creates air gaps and air seals), while spraying too much wastes resources and unnecessarily increases costs.
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11 DIY plumbing mistakes and ways to fix them
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11 DIY plumbing mistakes and ways to fix them

Today, because of the internet and plumbing tools that are easy to use, DIY plumbing has become a popular option for homemakers. Along with fixing problems like leakages, plumbing also involves identifying any issues in pipes, water tanks, taps, faucets, etc., every now and then and looking for suitable solutions. Although time-consuming at times, DIY plumbing can also be a fun-filled and cost-saving experience. But here are some plumbing mistakes DIYers should avoid: Using excessive amounts of liquid drain cleaners Many beginners in plumbing use large quantities of liquid drain cleaners to unclog sinks and kitchen drains. However, liquid drain cleaning may lead to several problems in the long run. For example, even after the drain is rinsed with water, some of the solution may remain in the pipes and can cause damage. So, it is always safe to replace liquid drain cleaners with plungers or natural solutions like baking soda and vinegar. Not checking the toilet and sink for leaks regularly Even minute leakages can start posing major issues later on, so regularly checking the toilet and sink for leakages is essential to prevent the problems from escalating. One should set up a schedule to examine the drainage systems, taps, faucets, etc., at least once every month to detect problems early on and fix them promptly. Fixing tubes and fittings too tight Tightening tubes, fittings, pipes, etc. too much can cause the fitting to develop cracks, leading to potential leakages and plumbing issues. These cracks may not be visible immediately, but they begin to appear eventually and can break and leak. Also, tightening closet bolts in the toilet can crack its porcelain. So, one should be careful not to tighten any of the tubes, pipes, or fittings too hard. Not researching what tools are required Tools are a plumbing DIYer’s best companions because they make this process incredibly easy and efficient.
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8 online reputation management mistakes businesses should avoid
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8 online reputation management mistakes businesses should avoid

Studies suggest nine out of ten people check online business reviews before engaging with the brand. This number alone points to the importance of online reputation management (ORM), which establishes and maintains a positive impression of one’s business. However, many mistakes could be made here, costing them their existing and new customers. Here are a few such mistakes businesses make and strategies to avoid them: 1. Staying away from social media Often, those with small to medium businesses do not see the value of social media, causing them to stay away from it. This can be one of their biggest mistakes, especially when managing their online reputation. Although it consumes a fair amount of time, energy, and resources, social media gives one a platform to engage with customers, assist them, and clear any misunderstandings. This is a great trust-building tool that can also help ensure repeat business. 2. Not working with an online reputation management strategy Another misconception many people have is that good work automatically translates into good reviews online. While it is important to maintain the quality of goods and services, this alone is not enough. Businesses must work wisely to develop online reputation management strategies with their social media policies. This can help them create a better impression on new and existing customers. 3. Ignoring negative feedback Negative reviews can be harrowing. This often makes people not want to reply to them or simply delete them. This can be dangerous for one’s ORM. Ignoring or deleting these messages does not make the feedback go away. Instead, it creates an aura of distrust and can leave customers feeling unheard or angry. The solution to this is simple. Always respond to negative messages or reviews professionally and promptly. Apologize for any errors that may have occurred and offer an amenable solution to rectify the situation.
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Skid-steer safety hazards and tips for operating them
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Skid-steer safety hazards and tips for operating them

Skid-steer vehicles are compact machines used for various tasks like lifting trees into landscaping sites, scooping out farm manure, and moving payloads of rocks, manure, and soil from one place to another. Their small size and versatility are useful for many farming and landscape activities. However, these vehicles must be operated with caution as it may lead to accidents otherwise. Here are some details related to skid-steer safety during farming and landscaping activities: Skid-steer safety hazards Using skid-steer vehicles in farms and landscape zones can result in a host of hazards. Some such hazards to watch out for include: Rollovers Tip-overs or rollovers are caused when skid-steer systems are overloaded with soil, manure, crops, or other things. Overloading the machine can make it unstable, resulting in fatal issues for skid-steer users as well as pedestrians. In addition to injuries and fatalities, rollovers also cause damage to farms, crops, and landscape structures. Being struck by falling materials Due to improper loading, there is always a distinct possibility of the things carried by a skid-steer falling on the machine operator. This can cause injuries to the operators, which, in many cases, can also be life-threatening in nature. Special precautions need to be taken to prevent this possibility. Hydraulic system-related safety issues The hydraulic system pressure can cause issues such as pin-hole leaks in the vehicle. This can cause injuries to people if they use their hands to search for the leak and other issues. The hydraulic system pressure tends to be in the range of 2000 pounds per square inch (psi). At such high pressures, it is likely for injuries and fatalities to inevitably occur if the machine operator is not careful. Slips and trips Falls and slips are another common accident that may occur if skid-steers aren’t used properly. If the floor or other areas of the vehicle are greasy and have a dirt build-up, one may slip while trying to get into the vehicle.
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Types of event bracelets and tips for choosing one
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Types of event bracelets and tips for choosing one

Wristbands or bracelets are the perfect tools for managing access to events like fairs, seminars, festivals, or concerts. The wristbands help organizers oversee admission to these events and also identify and distinguish between different types of participants. What’s more? Organizers get to advertise their event through dedicated event bracelets and wristbands. So, here is a brief guide to the common types of event wristbands and factors to consider while choosing one: Vinyl wristbands Also called plastic wristbands or bracelets, vinyl wristbands usually come with single-use snap closures. They are completely waterproof and do not tear easily, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor events, as sweat or humidity will not damage them. Vinyl wristbands are also extremely customizable, so organizers can order these in a bunch of different colors to easily distinguish between different types of attendees. However, the bands and their straps are only made for one-time use, making them suitable only for single-day events. Tyvek bands Tyvek® wristbands are also single-use bands but are typically equipped with adhesive closures. So once tied, these bands can only be removed by cutting them, which prevents them from being transferred or reused. This helps organizers have better security and admission control for the event. Tyvek® is a paper-like material, so it is extremely light and comfortable to wear and, at the same time, tear-resistant. Moreover, Tyvek® wristbands are affordable and customizable, so single-day event organizers can order these bands in bulk if they are expecting a large number of people to attend. Silicone bands These are among the most durable event wristbands. Silicone itself is highly flexible and comfortable to wear. Moreover, the material is highly resistant to water, so the band is unlikely to be damaged easily. What’s more? Silicone bands are typically not intended for one-time use, so they can be removed and re-worn multiple times.
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10 carpet cleaning mistakes to avoid
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10 carpet cleaning mistakes to avoid

Carpets can become breeding grounds for dust particles if not cleaned regularly. And that’s why home cleaning is not complete without cleaning the carpet. Fortunately, carpet cleaning is quite an easy task if one remembers to follow some hacks and strategies and take care of it. What a carpet needs most is gentle handling, mild products, and consistent cleaning. In addition, here are some mistakes one should avoid while cleaning carpets: Scrubbing the carpet Most people think of scrubbing as the right solution to removing stains. But when it comes to carpets, scrubbing can actually cause a lot of damage, especially if the scrub has hard bristles. The fibers of a carpet tend to get displaced when it is scrubbed. Also, scrubbing only pushes the dirt further inside the carpet, worsening the situation. A better alternative is to blot stains using a sponge or cloth and consult a professional if the stain still persists. Not treating stains proactively If a stain is left unattended for too long on a carpet, it tends to form lumps and settle between the carpet’s fibers. So, it can become even more difficult to be removed after a point. The best way to avoid this situation is to blot stains proactively, not letting them settle or make their way deeper into the fabric. Also, one should check the carpet regularly for any stains that may have gone unnoticed so far. Using a cleaning product without doing a spot test There is no fixed formula when it comes to using cleaning products on carpets – different cleaning products may work well for different carpets depending on the carpet’s material, how much dust and dirt has accumulated on it, etc. A carpet can get severely damaged if the wrong solution is used. The most effective strategy to determine what cleaning products are best for a carpet is to do a spot test.
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5 mistakes to avoid when buying an ice machine
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5 mistakes to avoid when buying an ice machine

One may not be worried about always having ice at home, and an ice tray or two is probably enough on most days. But, for restaurants and other hospitality establishments, ice is a daily necessity that supports many basic tasks, making ice machines a must-have. If one is considering upgrading to a new ice machine or is buying one for the first time, they should avoid the following mistakes to make an informed purchase:  1. Ignoring plumbing compatibility To function well and pump out ice at regular intervals, ice machines require a steady stream of water. This is made possible by directing the restaurant’s plumbing system. When buying an ice machine for an establishment, one must pay close attention to the plumbing system and pick a compatible option. Some aspects to consider include the location of the floor drain, the inlet and outlet valves, and local building codes. 2. Choosing the wrong type There are various types of ice machines, all serving the same function—to produce ice quickly without too much of a hassle. However, they can differ in their delivery systems and placement, catering to different needs. Based on the placement, one can choose from the following types: Undercounter commercial ice machines: As the name suggests, these machines are placed under the counter and can make hundreds of pounds of ice per day. Undercounter machines are suitable for restaurants, bars, and hotels, as they do not take up any valuable counter space. Countertop commercial ice makers: For smaller establishments such as cafes, kiosks, and diners, countertop commercial ice makers may be a better option. The machines tend to be smaller in size and can also produce anywhere between 300-400 pounds of ice per day. Modular commercial ice machines: These are also known as ice machine heads, and they are generally placed above the ice bin.
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8 tips to find a good house cleaning service
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8 tips to find a good house cleaning service

Cleaning the house is a task that can not be overlooked. However, it is not easy or even possible for everyone to dust, vacuum, and scrub the house after a tough week at work. This is what makes cleaning service companies such a blessing. One can simply hire a professional to clean the house. To make it even simpler, here are a few important tips to find a good house cleaning service. 1. Determine the type of cleaning required Before approaching cleaning services, one should determine what kind of cleaning service one needs. For instance, one can choose either of the following cleaning services: Regular cleaning  – Regular cleaning service is the one that individuals would require once every week or every month – basically, at regular intervals. Seasonal cleaning  – Seasonal cleaning services are carried out once every season, meaning the individuals would get four cleaning services per year. Cleaning for special occasions  – This cleaning service is the one that individuals can hire when they have special events or parties coming up. Cleaning during moving in or moving out  – Individuals can also call for cleaning services when they move out of a house or into a new one. It is important for people to choose one of these cleaning services, as based on that they will be presented with a quote and charges by the cleaning company. 2. Get recommendations from friends and family The easiest way to find a good house cleaning company is to seek recommendations from friends and family who live in the vicinity. If they have tried using cleaning services or continue to do so, they can direct one to a good cleaning company. Plus, since the recommendation comes from a close one, the individual can also get honest insights about the company’s services.
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13 tips to find an affordable rental home
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13 tips to find an affordable rental home

Moving out of one’s home is as scary as it is exciting. Not only does this come with the sweet promise of a fresh start, but it also brings new opportunities. However, with real estate prices constantly increasing, finding a new apartment with an affordable rent can quickly become a headache. To help tenants find their way through the rental market, here are 13 tips to find cheap apartments for rent. 1. Study the local market One of the most handy tips for negotiating rent is to study the local market. Check the accommodations in the area and see how much they cost. Cross-analyze this with the amount the landlord is asking for to work out a cheaper rent. In areas with high vacancy rates, this can be a great way to find a cheaper apartment. 2. Rent in the right season A lot of people move during the summer months, generally due to university requirements. This can shoot up the rent during this season. This demand tends to die down around December and January, which can give tenants a chance to negotiate better rental rates for their apartments. 3. Check out the competition Don’t rush to lease the first apartment. This is especially important for those who plan on living in the area for a longer while. Speak to the locals and ask them about any vacancies. Visit lease offices and check out their offerings. They may have offers called ‘lease-ups’ in newer apartment complexes, where one can score incentives such as a free month of rent, parking spot, storage, or even an application fee waiver. 4. Ask for discounts, if any Some landlords may be looking for tenants for a longer term. To aid this process, they may be willing to offer discounts on long-term leases. Be proactive and ask them for such discounts before signing a lease.
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6 ways to keep food fresh longer
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6 ways to keep food fresh longer

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), 30 to 40% of the food supply is tossed away as food waste. Such wastage can easily be avoided by preventing food spoilage. To do this, food needs to be either stored better or consumed in a judicious manner. So, to help keep food fresh for longer and avoid throwing it away, here are a few ways to handle food and leftovers:  1. Ensure optimal storage environment When stored incorrectly, say at the wrong temperature, food can get spoiled quickly. Even when placing food in the fridge, there are a few steps to take. For instance, according to the USDA, the right temperature inside the fridge should be at or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, while the freezer temperature should be 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything above that can encourage food spoilage. Further, the temperature indicated on the fridge might not be accurate, so experts suggest using an appliance thermometer to get the right reading. 2. Seal food in airtight containers Using resealable containers and bags here is an easy and environmentally friendly way to store food when compared to single-use containers. When meal-prepping or storing leftovers, one should avoid leaving them exposed to air and moisture, even inside the fridge, as this encourages bacterial growth in the food. Using airtight resealable packaging like silicon bags or glass containers is a great way to keep food it fresh for longer. Another tip is to use transparent containers so one does not have to keep opening the containers to check what’s inside. This lets air into the food.  3. Freeze fresh produce This is a great way to avoid throwing out veggies and fruits that get spoiled in the fridge. Frozen produce has just as much nutritional value as fresh produce. Plus, it lasts very long.
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10 best laundry detergents and their features
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10 best laundry detergents and their features

Detergents are available in multiple forms, such as pods, powder, and liquids, and choosing the best one can be tough. In addition to daily wear clothing and regular laundry items, you could have some garments that require specialized products for effective cleaning. Some members of your family might have sensitive skin and need mild chemical-free products. So here is a list of the best detergents that can make your laundry task hassle-free.  Gain Laundry Detergent Among the list of laundry detergents that are known for their fragrance is Gain Laundry Detergent. The liquid not only cleans your clothes but also gives them a delicate fragrance that can last for up to 6 weeks or until the garment is worn. This detergent can be used in all washing machines, including highly efficient ones. The detergent also has Oxi Boost, a combination of surfactants, enzymes, and pre-treaters that aid in eliminating stains and odors that could be two weeks old. Moreover, this product is available in multiple sizes to cater to the needs of every household. Persil ProClean Laundry Detergent Among the laundry detergents that excel in stain removal is Persil Proclean. This concentrated liquid offers deep cleaning and has stain-fighting enzymes. It has an active scent boost that eliminates the toughest of stains and odors so that your clothes have a fresh feel. This detergent has exceptional performance in all washing machines and provides effective cleaning at all water temperatures. The clean rinse formula and low suds ensure that white clothes stay white and bright clothes stay bright. Kirkland Laundry Detergent If you are looking for laundry detergents that are easy on your pocket, then choosing this Kirkland laundry detergent will be the best. The detergent offers a great combination of performance and cost-effectiveness. It has an ultra-clean formulation which enables it to travel deep in the fabrics to eliminate odor and stains.
Things to know about chronic kidney disease
Health

Things to know about chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease   occurs when there is a gradual failure of kidney function due to illnesses, genetics, etc. The kidneys’ main role is to filter waste matter and flush out excess bodily fluids, but advanced kidney failure causes fluids, electrolytes, and waste to build up in the body. Various factors must be understood to manage the condition, including the causes, symptoms, prevention tips, and more. Read on to learn more about chronic kidney disease. Causes of chronic kidney disease The main causes of chronic kidney disease are as follows: Diabetes When the body’s sugar levels are too high and become unmanageable, bodily organs stop functioning as normal. The first to be affected are the kidneys, leading to diabetes, which, in turn, affects the nerves, eyes, and heart.   High blood pressure This is when blood pressure against the walls of the blood vessels increases, and can lead to chronic kidney disease, heart attacks, and strokes. Hence, chronic kidney disease can also be caused by uncontrolled high blood pressure.   Genetics Chronic kidney disease can also be passed down through the genes. Therefore if someone in your close family has the condition, it is likely to be passed down to you.   Autoimmune disease Lupus nephritis is an autoimmune disease that causes swelling of the small blood vessels, which are responsible for flushing waste out of the kidneys.  Birth disorder Sometimes, certain malfunctions of the kidneys develop in the mother’s womb and can cause infections and kidney damage later on in the person’s life.   Other causes Kidney stones or tumors can cause kidney damage or failure if not treated in time.  Glomerulonephritis It is a group of diseases that can cause inflammation in the filtering segments of the kidneys. This disorder is one of the most common types of kidney disease. Vesicoureteral reflux This is a condition that causes urine to back up into the kidneys.
Have these 14 foods to manage macular degeneration
Health

Have these 14 foods to manage macular degeneration

Macular degeneration is an eye condition that causes changes in the macula, leading to vision loss. Though there is no cure for this condition, following an eye-healthy meal plan is important in managing complications like vision loss. A nutritional regime for age-related macular degeneration should include healthy amounts of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Some foods that contain eye-healthy vitamins that help manage symptoms of macular degeneration are listed below. Macular degeneration Age-related macular degeneration is a primary cause of vision loss among people aged 55 years and above. The condition refers to the deterioration of the central part of the retina called the macula. Symptoms include blurry vision, blind spots, difficulty recognizing faces, visual distortions, and more. Studies indicate that nearly 20 million people in the country live with some form of age-related macular degeneration. This condition occurs in two forms- the dry and the wet form. The dry type occurs when the macula gets thinner with age. This condition gradually progresses over the years. The dry form can advance into the wet type when abnormal blood vessels develop in the back of the eye and harm the macula. The wet type of AMD usually accelerates vision loss. Leafy green veggies Dark-green, leafy vegetables are rich in beta-carotene and carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin. Including leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, and collard greens in your meal plan can increase the pigment density in the macula and potentially slow down age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Also, keep up a healthy intake of cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, and cabbage, all excellent sources of essential vitamins. Colorful vegetables Colorful vegetables such as carrots, red and yellow pepper, pumpkin, and tomato contain carotenoids that contain essential vitamins for the eyes, such as lutein and zeaxanthin. To manage macular degeneration, include all these colorful and eye-healthy veggies on your plate.