Category: How To

Simple Ways to Make Your Flat Quieter

Suzette

Discover easy and effective tips to reduce noise in your flat and create a more peaceful living space!

Ever tried to watch TV, only to be interrupted by your neighbour’s late-night karaoke or the thuds of mystery furniture rearranging upstairs? Apartment living can feel like you’re stuck in a shared soap opera, whether you like it or not. But before you start tearing your hair out, know that there are simple ways to block out the noise and bring back a bit of peace. With a few clever tricks, you can turn your unit into a quiet little sanctuary. Let’s get stuck in and help you find that sweet, sweet silence.

Identify the Sources of Noise

To overcome noise issues in your flat, you’ve got to figure out where it’s coming from. Carefully inspect each room and pay attention to different noise sources. This could be thin walls, loud neighbours, a humming fridge, or traffic. Writing down the sounds you hear and where you hear them can really help. Keep a simple noise log for about a week to spot any patterns. Keep in mind that different noises need different fixes. Sharp sounds like voices or footsteps aren’t the same as low rumbles from traffic or music, for example. Once you’ve recognised these differences, you’ll be in a better spot to sort it out without just playing whack-a-mole with your sanity.

Communicate with Neighbours

If the noise is coming from next door, usually, having a friendly chat with your neighbour is the first step. It might feel a bit awkward at first, but being respectful usually gets good results. Try to catch them at a good time when you both have some free time. Sometimes people don’t even know they’re being loud, so just pointing it out can make a big difference. You can suggest something that works for both of you, like setting quiet times. This way, you sort out the problem and also keep relations friendly between neighbours.

If further discussion is needed, writing down what you both agree on can help keep things clear and avoid confusion later. Getting along with your neighbours can help manage noise in the long run. You can think about what you will say in advance so you feel more confident. It could be a bit nerve-wracking at first, but talking it out nicely can really smooth things out.

Talk to Your Landlord

If noise is constant and your own efforts aren’t cutting it, it might be time to loop in your landlord or building manager. They’re responsible for keeping the place liveable, so things like rattly windows, thin walls, or squeaky pipes are worth raising. If the issue is coming from shared areas, like the hallway or rooftop, they could be able to set some ground rules or pop up a sign. When you do bring it up, keep it polite and practical. A quick email with a couple of examples is usually enough to get things moving.

Use Soundproofing Techniques

Creating a quieter home doesn’t have to break the bank. Start by assessing the layout of your space. Sometimes, just reshuffling your furniture can do wonders. A bulky couch or bookshelf up against a shared wall can help muffle unwanted sounds. If you have a fondness for DIY tasks, you could build wall panels using sound-absorbing materials. Not only is it a cost-effective method, but it also prevents the transfer of unwanted noise. This ensures that you can enjoy your activities without causing a disturbance to those living next door, and vice versa. By shifting some furniture or adding a few soundproof items, you can turn your space into a nice, calm spot away from all the chaos outside.

Invest in White Noise Machines

Getting a white noise machine for your flat is a great way to block out annoying sounds and bring a bit of peace to your home. They play constant, calming sounds, like rain, waves, or soft static, that help mask background noise. You will find plenty of options, from basic machines to fancy smartphone applications. With this wide range, there’s something to suit every budget and lifestyle. When picking one, think about the sound quality, volume settings, and portability. Put it in spots like next to your bed or in your home office, or wherever the noise is most distracting.

Try out different white noise types to see what works for you. Some people prefer ocean waves, while others prefer nature sounds or gentle tunes. It’s helpful to change up the volume depending on the time of day and how you’re feeling, but remember, too loud can be just as annoying as the noise you were trying to drown out. Pair them with thick, dense curtains or snug rugs, and you’ll create a much quieter, serene ambience.

Change Up Your Daily Routine

Blocking out noise is one approach, but sometimes it’s easier to plan around it. If your neighbour cranks up the telly every night at 7 or the garbage truck rattles down your street on Wednesday mornings, adjusting your routine can help. Tackle noisy chores like vacuuming during peak outside noise, and save your quiet time for when things naturally settle down. Even simple changes, like cooking dinner earlier or listening to a podcast during loud patches, can make a big difference. You don’t need to flip your whole day around—just find a rhythm that works with your surroundings. A bit of smart timing can go a long way.

Considerate Living for a Smooth Move-out

Being mindful of your own noise is not just helpful for your everyday comfort. It also plays a big part in keeping things friendly with your neighbours and staying in your landlord’s good books. A quiet, well-kept home reduces the chances of complaints and helps you avoid issues when it’s time to pack up. When you combine that with a trusted move-out cleaning service, you’re setting yourself up for a smooth and hassle-free departure. It’s a simple way to leave things clean, calm and in good standing.

Conclusion

Silence is golden, especially after a big day. With the few tweaks mentioned above, you can effectively turn your place into your very own soundproof haven. Just give them a go and enjoy the quiet afterwards.

Frequently Asked Questions on Plumbing Rough-In for New Constructions

Suzette

Are you building a new home? Here are some frequently asked rough-in questions!

Embarking on the journey of building a new home brings with it a host of questions, particularly regarding essential aspects like plumbing rough-in. To assist you in this process, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most common queries about new construction plumbing rough-in.

What Determines the Cost of Plumbing Rough-In in New Construction?

The cost involved in roughing-in plumbing for a new property can vary based on several key factors:

  • The layout and location of the piping system
  • The number of bathrooms in the house
  • The type and cost of plumbing materials used
  • The payment structure of the plumber, whether it’s an hourly rate or a fixed project fee

It’s beneficial to have a thorough understanding of these factors when discussing new construction plumbing rough-in with a plumber. Ensure that when you receive a quotation, it clearly outlines whether both labor and materials are included in the provided cost estimate.

What is the Process of Plumbing Rough-In in New Construction?

The plumbing rough-in is a crucial phase in constructing a new building, typically commencing once the framing stage is complete. But what does the rough-in involve?

During the rough-in phase, a professional plumber will mark out and establish all the necessary plumbing locations in the new structure. This includes making sure that every plumbing line is appropriately connected to a main drainage point, often referred to as the ‘stack’.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the plumbing rough-in process:

  • Routing of line pipes through the walls.
  • Making all necessary pipe connections.
  • Extending vent stacks to the roofline.
  • Connecting all water supply and drain lines to the sewer or septic systems.
  • Undertaking excavations to link pipes with external utilities.
  • Preparing for fixture installation by attaching components like drains, toilet flanges, and sanitary tees to the internal plumbing system.

It’s often asked why fixtures are installed last. There are two main reasons:

  • Any issues with pipes and lines during the rough-in could necessitate the removal and reinstallation of any prematurely installed fixtures, leading to unnecessary costs and delays.
  • It’s important for all plumbing work during the rough-in to be easily accessible for inspection and approval before the final fixture installations are made.

Adhering to this structured process is essential for the smooth completion of new construction projects.

What is the Difference Between Plumbing Rough-in and Final Plumbing Installation?

The plumbing rough-in and final plumbing installation represent two distinct phases in the construction process, each with its own specific objectives and tasks. During the rough-in stage, plumbing infrastructure is laid out and installed within the walls and floors of the building, focusing on running pipes, setting up drainage systems, and connecting water lines to the appropriate locations without attaching the final fixtures like sinks, toilets, and showers. This phase sets the foundation for the plumbing system and is typically completed before walls and floors are finished. In contrast, the final plumbing installation occurs later in the construction process and involves the installation of these fixtures, final connections to the roughed-in pipes, and ensuring that everything is operational, leak-free, and ready for use. This final stage transforms the preliminary framework of the rough-in into a fully functional plumbing system.

Duration of Plumbing Work in New Construction

The time frame for completing plumbing in new construction varies depending on the scale of the build. For smaller projects, like a home with a single bedroom and bathroom, the plumbing rough-in and fixture installation typically take around five days. In contrast, larger constructions with more complex plumbing needs, such as multiple bathrooms, can take several weeks to complete the plumbing phase.

What Comes After the Plumbing Rough-In?

The sequence of construction activities places plumbing rough-ins before other key steps such as plastering, drywall installation, insulation, and final finishes like flooring. It’s standard practice for a local building inspector to review and approve the rough-in work, ensuring it meets all relevant building codes and regulations.

Final Thoughts on New Construction Plumbing Rough-In

Plumbing in new constructions, especially the rough-in phase, demands professional expertise, knowledge, and appropriate materials. It’s crucial to understand that this is not a task for DIY enthusiasts.

Hiring a qualified plumber isn’t just about reliability; it’s also about ensuring the job is done correctly and preventing future complications. A professional plumber is not only equipped to handle the complexities of new construction plumbing but also serves as a safeguard against potential issues down the line.

Trenchless Sewer Line Replacement: Minimizing Disruption, Maximizing Efficiency

Suzette

Having issues with your sewer line? Here is why you should hire a professional to make some changes!

Gone are the days when repairing a drain meant upheaval and disruption. With the advent of sewer line replacement Toronto technology, fixing underground pipes no longer requires extensive digging. This article delves into how trenchless repair minimizes disruption and maximizes efficiency.

Trenchless Sewer Line Replacement. What is this?

Trenchless sewer line replacement is a modern plumbing solution that repairs pipes without the need for extensive excavation. Emerging in the late 20th century, this method has evolved significantly, thanks to technological advancements, offering a less invasive alternative to traditional repair techniques.

The Process of Trenchless Sewer Line Replacement

Trenchless sewer line replacement is a sophisticated procedure that involves several key steps, each designed to ensure minimal disruption and maximum efficiency. Here’s a closer look at this innovative process:

1. Initial Inspection:

The first step is a thorough inspection of the damaged pipe. Professionals use specialized cameras to conduct a sewer line inspection. This camera inspection helps identify the exact location and extent of the damage, ensuring that the repair process is targeted and efficient.

2. Cleaning the Pipe:

Before any repair work begins, the existing pipe must be cleaned. High-pressure water jetting or mechanical cleaning tools are often used to remove any debris, blockages, or roots that have penetrated the pipe. This cleaning ensures that the lining or bursting process can be executed smoothly.

3. Pipe Lining Method (Cured-in-Place Pipe, CIPP):

One common trenchless repair method is pipe lining, also known as Cured-in-Place Pipe (CIPP). In this process, a flexible liner soaked in a resin solution is inserted into the damaged pipe. Once in place, the liner is inflated to adhere to the inner walls of the existing pipe. Heat or UV light is then applied to cure the resin, creating a new, seamless pipe within the old one. This method is particularly effective for fixing leaks, cracks, and minor pipe deformities.

4. Pipe Bursting Method:

For severely damaged pipes, pipe bursting might be the preferred method. This involves pulling a new pipe through the old one, while simultaneously fracturing the existing pipe outward. A bursting head attached to the new pipe breaks apart the old pipe and pushes the fragments into the surrounding soil. This method is ideal for replacing pipes that are beyond repair.

5. Final Inspection and Testing:

After the repair is completed, a final inspection is conducted using the camera again. This ensures that the repair has been successful and the pipe is restored to full functionality. The system is also tested for leaks and proper flow to guarantee a job well done.

Benefits of Trenchless Sewer Line Replacement

Unlike traditional methods, trenchless repair causes minimal disruption to landscapes and daily life. It’s not only quicker but also reduces the need for heavy machinery. Additionally, the repairs are long-lasting, often providing a more durable solution than older methods. Here are three key benefits of trenchless sewer line replacement:

1. Minimal Disruption

One of the most significant advantages of trenchless sewer line replacement is the minimal disruption it causes. Unlike traditional methods that require extensive excavation, trenchless technology only needs one or two small access points. This means less noise, less mess, and little to no disruption to your yard, driveway, or landscape. It’s particularly beneficial in urban areas where extensive excavation can disrupt traffic and daily activities.

2. Cost-Effective and Time-Saving

Trenchless repair can be more cost-effective than traditional methods. It reduces the need for extensive labor, heavy machinery, and the restoration work required post-repair. Since trenchless repairs are typically completed faster than traditional methods, they also save homeowners time. The efficiency of this method means less downtime for your plumbing system and quicker return to normalcy.

3. Durability and Quality

Trenchless sewer line replacement methods, such as pipe lining and pipe bursting, often result in a stronger and more durable pipe system. These methods can improve the pipe’s resistance to future problems like cracks, leaks, or root intrusion. Additionally, the materials used in trenchless repairs, like epoxy resins in CIPP (Cured-in-Place Pipe), are known for their longevity and can extend the lifespan of your drain system significantly.

These benefits make trenchless sewer line replacement a smart choice for homeowners seeking efficient, cost-effective, and long-lasting solutions for their drain problems.

Cost Analysis

Initially, trenchless methods may seem more expensive than traditional repairs. However, when factoring in the reduced labor costs and minimal landscape restoration required, trenchless repairs often prove to be more cost-effective in the long run.

Choosing a Trenchless Sewer Line Replacement Service

Selecting the right service provider is crucial. Look for companies with proven expertise and necessary certifications. Researching and reading reviews can also help in finding a reputable service provider.

Trenchless sewer line replacement stands out as a modern solution that effectively balances efficiency with minimal disruption. As technology advances, it’s increasingly becoming the go-to choice for savvy homeowners and businesses.

If you’re facing drain issues, consider the trenchless method for a hassle-free repair experience. For more information or to find a service provider, explore resources available online or contact local plumbing experts.

The Steinbridge Group: Tawan Davis Brings Social Responsibility to Urban Real Estate

Suzette

Thinking about purchasing a new home? Keep reading how this investment company in building socially resposbile homes!

The Steinbridge Group is a leading property development, investment and asset management company that takes a long-term approach to the neighborhoods and cities it works and invests in, providing attainable, high-quality housing to promote wellbeing and long-term growth.

In recent years, the Steinbridge Group has initiated an investment strategy focusing on acquiring and rebuilding attainable homes to lease to working-class families across major US cities. The company’s ultimate goal is to invest more than $2 billion, assembling a portfolio of several thousand homes.

Supported by a team of seasoned real estate professionals with billions of dollars of acquisitions, construction, development, asset management, investing, and leasing experience, the Steinbridge Group invests heavily in its staff and is always on the lookout for professionals with a passion for excellence.

Over the decades, it has become increasingly challenging for working-class families to secure quality, attainable housing options in cities across the United States. Years of gentrification is forcing many out of the area, with skyrocketing rents, rising inflation and spiraling energy bills stretching working-class families to the limit.

Leveraging Tawan Davis’s innovative new model, the Steinbridge Group presents a solution to shortages of family-friendly, attainable properties in gentrifying cities across the United States. After all, these cities could not function without millions of workers to support them, and as Tawan Davis asserts, the people who work there should be able to live there too. Teachers, postal workers, and firefighters are all hard hit by housing price increases. However, the Steinbridge Group presents a sustainable solution, offering attainable and high-quality homes to ease the strain for working-class families.

Responding to the lingering effects of the 2008 economic downturn, Tawan Davis, founder and CEO of the Steinbridge Group, crafted a $425 million strategy geared towards providing single-family rental and small multi-family residences in major transitioning cities.

For Tawan Davis, the math behind this move is simple. As he points out, US home ownership has dropped by 17%, with the average couple renting for 6.6 years before buying, compared with 2.2 years in the 1980s. For investors and developers, venturing into the rental space presented a lucrative yet short-lived focus on high-end apartments, with construction competition driving up costs and lowering returns. For far too long now, developers have failed to invest in creating attainable homes for average American families. While others were slow to grasp the opportunities, shortsightedly focusing on profits alone, the Steinbridge Group responds to core needs in thoughtful and humanizing ways.

Relocating to Philadelphia from New York, CEO Tawan Davis operated with the ethos of ‘well done is better than well said’, a phrase coined by Philadelphia’s beloved Benjamin Franklin.

As Tawan Davis pointed out when embarking on his ambitious project in real estate, less than 2% of US rental homes were owned by institutional lenders. Instead, the vast majority were owned by private individuals, many of whom lacked the resources to properly maintain their properties. The Steinbridge Group set about acquiring houses, improving them and investing resources to keep them in top condition for families.

Fueled by his upbringing, Tawan Davis’s ‘latent asset theory’ centers around recognizing the deeper value in people and communities. Behind the Steinbridge Group lies a business proposition rooted in preserving pride and investing in hidden talent rather than displacing and uprooting untapped American dreams. As Tawan Davis himself concedes, without similar grounding and good fortune, his own story would be quite different.

The Steinbridge Group not only provides working-class families with high-quality, attainable homes but also creates hundreds of jobs, fueling growth in communities as well as the businesses it partners with.

How to Properly Prepare a Room for Painting

Suzette

Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a first-time painter, one thing remains true: proper preparation is the key to a flawless painting project!

Taking the time to prep your room may seem tedious, but it is just as crucial to the result as the actual painting. In this blog post provided by expert painters and decorators working with Fantastic Services, we’ll guide you through the crucial steps and expert tips on how to achieve a smooth and professional finish that will leave you with a masterpiece on your walls.

Protection and Painting Tools You’ll Need

What painting tools do you need to prepare the area? It is quite simple actually, and you may even have most of those in your home already!

  • Soap – Dirt, grime, and oil can prevent paint from adhering properly to any surface. Make sure to thoroughly clean the area with soap to remove all contaminants before you commence.
  • Sponge, gloves, and a bucket – This one is self-explanatory. A skilled handyman always wears gloves to protect his hands, and so should you. Get yourself a bucket to mix in the soap with water and, of course, a sponge to better prepare the surface.
  • Protective sheets – You can use protective sheets or drop cloths. Both will allow you to protect the floors, furniture, and other objects you can not remove before you begin.
  • Sandpaper – Uneven or damaged areas can cause the new paint to crack or peel. Use sandpaper to smooth rough surfaces, remove old paint or wallpaper, and create a nice, even surface for your DIY painting project.
  • Painter’s tape – You can mask off areas you do not want to paint or achieve certain forms. Make sure to properly stick it to the wall so that it stays put once you start the paint job.

Preparing a Room for DIY Painting

Now that you have your tools ready let’s look at what steps you need to take to ensure the best possible results.

Clear the Space

The most important piece of advice that any professional painter will offer you is to make sure you have adequate area in the room. Once you start painting, it will feel like everything gets in your way.

Remove the furniture pieces and wall decorations. If a particular furniture piece is too heavy or big to get out of the room, move it to its centre and cover it up with the protective sheets you got.

Inspect the Walls for Damage

After you’ve prepared your workspace, the following step is to check the area you’ll be painting over. Make sure you complete a thorough examination since this will have an impact on the final outcome of your project. If you spot any holes, cracks, or other damages, fill them in. Once done, use the sandpaper to even out the wall’s surface.

Clean the Walls

Now that you have fixed any minor or major damages you may have had, it is time to get the soap, sponge, and bucket! Mix in the soap with some warm water, put on your gloves, and go through the walls carefully, making sure you clean every inch of them. It is important to note that you should not be using sugar soap.

Protect the Floors and Other Areas

Use protective sheets or drop cloths to carefully cover the entire floor and any remaining items. Ensure you have covered everything, as you don’t want to move sheets around once you start.

Preparing Different Wall Surfaces for DIY Painting

If you have followed through up until now, that is great! You need to cover one final step before starting your project’s fun part! There are a few things to consider depending on the current state of the wall you want to paint.

Plaster Walls

What is important to know about plaster walls is that they have a high absorbance level. What does that mean? Simply put, the first coat of paint you place will get heavily, potentially unevenly, absorbed. This will not only impact the overall appearance of the output but will also significantly increase the expense of the entire procedure. When it comes to plaster walls, professional painters recommend using a primer before you begin the paint job. It will provide the smooth surface you need and protect your colours.

Gloss Wall Surface

We are not going to lie. This is probably the most challenging surface to paint. To get a gloss wall ready for painting, you need to ensure that the paint will actually adhere. To do that, you must thoroughly sand the wall, removing all the sheen/gloss. Once done, carefully clean the wall again using a warm damp cloth, and leave it to dry. Apply a primer once the surface has dried fully. Now your gloss wall surface is ready to be painted!

Wallpaper Walls

Have you decided to change the wallpapers and apply fresh new paint? If you previously opted for peelable wallpapers, you should pat yourself on the back. However, if you hang them with paste, it may be slightly trickier to get rid of them.

In such a situation, you should reach out for your tools for painting and get your stripping knife. It will be a lengthy procedure, but be certain that the wallpaper is thoroughly removed from the wall. Of course, be careful not to damage the plaster underneath. If scraps of wallpaper do not wish to come off, try soaking them with a sponge and hot water. That should soften it and make it easier to strip.

Brick Walls

Brick walls allow you to be more creative with the paint. You can use both interior, as well as exterior shades to achieve the desired result. Similar to plastered walls, you should expect the first coat to be primarily absorbed. You should apply a mist coat. To prepare a mist coat, you should take some water and mix it with the paint. It should be a seven-to-three ratio, with 70% water and 30% paint. Apply the coat, let it dry and go wild the paint afterwards.

Consider Hiring Professional Painters

If this is your first DIY project, then perhaps it is a good idea to reach out to some professional painters and companies. Even if you know all the tips and tricks, painting is challenging, especially if you plan to renovate more than one wall. Not only will the handyman company send out people who will get the job done quickly and efficiently, but you will also be able to “steal” some painting techniques from them, which you can further apply when you are ready to paint by yourself.

Conclusion

Regardless of what paint job you plan on doing, always remember that preparation is vital. The better and more detailed the prep job, the easier the rest will be. Ensure that your walls are thoroughly cleaned. Fix any damage and apply the necessary undercoat. Place enough protective sheets to protect everything in the area, and you are good to go!