5 mistakes that can cause the Christmas tree to go up in flames

5 mistakes that can cause the Christmas tree to go up in flames

Christmas is right around the corner, and the lights and trees are starting to be set up in homes. While these traditions are annual staples, people still make inevitable mistakes while setting up their trees, leading to easily preventable accidents that can turn serious. So, to remain safe while celebrating this holiday season, here are some errors to note. Knowing these can help one avoid mistakes that can cause the Christmas trees to burn. Common mistakes made that can cause Christmas trees to go up in flames Here are some errors to note that can cause a fire in the house due to the Christmas tree and some solutions one should follow instead. Not getting a fresh tree Experts suggest that getting a tree that is fresh with green needles is the one to buy. The fire department, in fact, suggests this tip to ensure that the tree is not too dry so that it can avoid catching fire easily. The green needles should be so fresh that they remain intact when touched and do not fall on the ground immediately. A quick tip to check this is to just run the hand through the tree and notice if any of the needles are falling off.
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Top 19 window replacement mistakes to avoid

Top 19 window replacement mistakes to avoid

A need for enhanced home comfort, energy efficiency, and aesthetics often drives the decision to replace windows. It helps create a more pleasant living space and potentially saves on energy costs for the homeowners. The benefits extend beyond mere visual upgrades. Energy-efficient windows can contribute to a more sustainable and cost-effective home. When considering window replacement, choosing the right kind is crucial. Factors such as material durability and alignment with the home’s design play pivotal roles. Here are a few common window replacement mistakes to avoid: 1. Ignoring energy efficiency ratings The significance of energy efficiency ratings cannot be overstated. The U-factor gauges how well a window insulates, while the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measures its ability to block heat from the sun. Overlooking these metrics might lead to discomfort and higher energy bills. 2. Neglecting proper measurements Accurate measurements are essential to ensure accuracy during the window replacement process. Homeowners often make the mistake of measuring only the width and height, neglecting the equally crucial depth of the window openings: ill-fitted windows compromise aesthetics, functionality, and energy efficiency. 3. Opting for the wrong window style The allure of trendy window styles sometimes overshadows practical considerations. Choosing a style that doesn’t harmonize with the home’s overall aesthetic can disrupt its visual flow.
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7 essential tips for using trash bags and cans

7 essential tips for using trash bags and cans

Trash cans or bags are essential for keeping the house and neighborhood clean. However, sometimes, a trash bag may cave in due to the weight of the waste it is holding and end up making a mess of the bin, or it may tear, letting liquid seep through. Fortunately, there are some neat hacks to make trash bags stay put and ensure the cans and bags are functional and smell-free. The article also lists a few tricks to make trash day hassle-free: 1. DIY a garbage bag holder This is a neat trick that anyone can try. Garbage bags often collapse due to the weight of the waste, making them difficult to use. Those who are struggling with keeping the garbage bags in place can line the bin with a garbage bag as usual, cut out a gaping hole in the trash can lid, place it on top of the bin, and throw the trash through the hole at the top. This way, the lid’s rim secures the bag, preventing it from slipping. This way, one can easily throw trash into the bag without worrying. That said, this only works for dry waste, as wet waste can rot and cause the place to smell if it is not adequately covered.
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8 basement renovation mistakes to avoid

8 basement renovation mistakes to avoid

Basements can be heavily underutilized, especially when used to store all the extra stuff in the house. Sometimes, the basement is also a makeshift laundry room, gym, playroom, or all rolled into one. However, if planned well, it can become a valuable living space. The right upgrades in this space can also enhance the resale value of the house. So, if one is planning to renovate the basement, they should avoid the following mistakes:  1. Not obtaining the right permits It is mandatory to get a permit for basement renovation. Not getting a permit is not only illegal but can also prove to be dangerous. This is because the permit ensures that the renovation job is done according to the safety laws and code of the city. One can get a permit by calling the local municipality office and informing them about the type of work one is planning to undertake in the basement. Then, board inspectors will visit and periodically monitor the work to ensure all rules and regulations are followed. 2. Skipping inspection As a basement is right underneath a house, it is prone to structural issues that can develop over the long run. Further, for one moving into the existing house, a professional inspection can help them detect all issues, from water seepage to pest infestation, that can cause potential damage.
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8 ways to deal with a flooded basement

8 ways to deal with a flooded basement

The cause of a flooded basement may be varied, from seepage problems to foundation issues, but cleaning it up afterward is a borderline nightmare. In the worst cases, one may lose cherished items like books, frames, or even furniture and flooring. Cleaning up a flooded basement requires safety, patience, hard work, and sometimes professional help. Here are some immediate steps one can take to deal with the dread. Knowing these steps beforehand can help save one’s property and reduce stress. Ensure safety The first thing to do in case of a flooded basement is to ensure one’s safety. The water collected in the basement often disturbs electric wiring, which can be fatal if tampered with bare hands. Turn off any electrical supplies, appliances, as well as gas supply. Find the source of leak Try to find the source of the leak and close it off to avoid further damage. Some common types of leaked sources include running tap water, overflowing bathtubs, blocked toilets, and broken water heaters. In case of natural causes like heavy rain, one might have to wait until it has passed to get down to the cleanup. Dry out the place Leaving a flooded basement even for a day can lead to the formation of mold on dampened fabric, which can cause irreparable damage to the furniture and give out a musty smell.
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7 tips for choosing the best pest control service

7 tips for choosing the best pest control service

There are numerous pest control services available nowadays. Homeowners looking for a service provider are likely to come across at least a couple options that offer the same service. However, choosing a pest control service that suits their needs is a difficult task. It is important to consider certain attributes of any given service before investing money in it. Here are some valuable tips for finding and selecting the best pest control services: Checking documentation Proper documentation separates the genuine service providers from the novices and fraudulent ones. Initially, when customers ask service providers to show their documentation, they will take time to provide them with the paperwork. Nevertheless, it is worth waiting before putting one’s hard-earned money on a service provider. Service providers that delay showcasing their documentation even after repeated reminders need to be avoided. There are mainly two kinds of documentation one should look for when hiring a pest control service provider. Firstly, the registration information is necessary to check whether a company is registered with the homeowner’s state’s Pest Control Regulatory Agency. This helps ensure that the service provider is legitimate and operates within the law. Secondly, it is vital to check for a document that confirms the presence of a licensed and certified applicator on staff.
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Breast cancer – Causes, types, and management

Breast cancer – Causes, types, and management

Cancer that originates in the breast tissue is called breast cancer. It is the second most common cancer among women in the country. The condition is seen in women more than men. Fortunately, advancements in screening and breast cancer treatment have enabled dramatic improvements in survival rates over the years. The symptoms include changes in the texture and shape of the nipples, discharge from the nipples, and a lump in the breast.  Read on to learn the causes, types, and management options of breast cancer.  Causes of breast cancer Breast cancer occurs when abnormal breast cells divide and multiply more rapidly than healthy cells. These abnormal cells accumulate to form a lump or mass. Doctors have not been able to know the exact cause of breast cancer. However, multiple factors can trigger the chances of developing the disease, and they include: Family history and genetics The risk increases if you have parents or close relatives who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Having gene mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are passed down from parents to children, also increases the risk. Age The risk of breast cancer increases with advancing age.  Gender The risk of developing breast cancer is higher in women than in men.   Personal history of breast conditions The risk increases when an earlier biopsy has indicated atypical hyperplasia of the breast or lobular carcinoma in situ or if cancer has been detected in one breast.
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Things to know about chronic kidney disease

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.
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