Follow Proper - Photos & Ideas

THE SETUP When we first encountered this basement for a family with three boys, we saw a space with untapped potential. Though previously remodeled, it lacked a cohesive design strategy. The expansive area housed various entertainment pieces (a shuffleboard table, air hockey, foosball, etc.) scattered haphazardly throughout the space. While the basement included a workout room and a rudimentary kitchen area, it lacked a dedicated game room or proper bar. Excessive storage closets along the back wall consumed valuable real estate that could be repurposed for more engaging uses. In essence, the basement was spacious but disjointed—functional for family use but falling short as an entertainment hub. It didn’t align with the sophistication of the rest of the home. Our clients envisioned a transformation: a fresh, organized space that would not only serve their family’s needs but also shine as an inviting arena for entertaining friends and hosting gatherings – especially sports-focused gatherings! Design Objectives: Reimagine the basement layout, creating distinct zones for varied activities. Expand the workout area to accommodate new equipment, including a Smith machine. Implement a multi-screen setup inspired by high-end sports bars, allowing guests to follow multiple games while socializing. Enhance existing features while developing new areas: Optimize a workout space for all equipment needs Establish a dedicated children’s space with guest room capabilities Create an integrated bar and entertainment area Retain and incorporate the existing projector setup Design Challenges: Navigate layout constraints in the new workout room due to fixed utility areas. Carve out a distinct space for kids within the open plan. Revitalize an underutilized section of the basement. Elevate the existing big screen area with purposeful design elements. Develop a full-fledged bar area while maintaining kitchen functions applicable for hangout snacking. Work around immovable structural elements (soffits, load-bearing support columns) THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: Install a stylish barn door for the utility area of the new workout space, improving aesthetics and accessibility. Repurpose the former workout room into a dedicated game room for kids, utilizing couches with pull-out beds so the area can double as overflow guest accommodations. Transform the unused area into a vibrant pub-style area for card and table games. Enhance the big screen area with elegant wainscoting and ambient theatre-style lighting. Design a multi-functional wet bar area featuring varied seating, prep areas, and a microwave. Base the bar sink area width off the soffit above it. In the big screen area, use the soffit to inform the width of a wainscoting section. For the immovable support columns, dress one up to match the wainscoting of the nearby big screen wall. Hide the other one in a new wall. Final Thoughts: The reimagined basement has exceeded our clients’ expectations, evolving into the ultimate entertainment hub. With seven strategically placed screens, it’s perfect for gatherings focused on major sporting events and casual gatherings, as well. The space strikes a balance between adult sophistication and family-friendly functionality, featuring distinct zones for various activities. The new design not only maximizes functionality for modern, multi-screen entertainment but also elevates the aesthetic appeal. It integrates flawlessly with the rest of the home’s transitional style while allowing each basement section to maintain its unique character. The result is a versatile space that caters to both intimate family time and large-scale entertaining.

Ultimate Basement Remodel

Drury Design

Ultimate Basement Remodel

Drury Design

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Ultimate Basement Remodel

Drury Design

Ultimate Basement Remodel

Drury Design

Ultimate Basement Remodel

Drury Design

Ultimate Basement Remodel

Drury Design

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Ultimate Basement Remodel

Drury Design

Ultimate Basement Remodel

Drury Design

Reffeitt Basement Renovation

Inhabit | Space

Whon Photography
Large urban underground carpeted staircase photo in Indianapolis with gray walls and no fireplace

How to Source De-Icing Materials Before Winter Catches You Off Guard

safe ZOnea

Every year, the same thing happens. The first real snowfall arrives, demand for de-icing materials spikes overnight, and the businesses that waited too long find themselves scrambling for supply at the worst possible moment. Facility managers, property owners, contractors, and municipalities all depend on a steady supply of salt and ice melt to keep their properties safe and operational through winter. The ones who plan ahead sail through. The ones who don't pay more, wait longer, and take on real risk. Sourcing de-icing materials well is not complicated, but it does require thinking ahead and understanding the options. The choices you make about what to buy, how to buy it, and who to buy it from have a direct effect on your costs, your reliability, and your ability to keep people safe when conditions turn dangerous. This article lays out what matters. Why Your Choice of Supplier Matters More Than You Think It is easy to treat de-icing material as a commodity, something you grab whenever you need it without much thought about where it comes from. That works fine until the moment it doesn't, usually in the middle of a storm when everyone needs supply at once and the casual sources have run dry. At that point, the relationships you built before the season become the difference between staying stocked and being stuck. Reliable supply is the whole game in winter operations. A property that runs out of ice melt during a storm faces safety hazards, liability exposure, and disruption, none of which can wait for a back-ordered shipment. This is why establishing relationships with dependable rock salt suppliers before the season starts is one of the smartest moves a facility manager or contractor can make. It locks in supply, often locks in better pricing, and removes a major source of mid-winter stress. The lesson here is to treat sourcing as a planning decision rather than a last-minute errand. The businesses that come through winter smoothly are almost always the ones that secured their supply chain early, chose suppliers who could actually deliver when it counted, and never had to gamble on finding material during a shortage. Reliability bought in advance is far cheaper than scarcity paid for in a crisis. Bagged or Bulk: Matching the Material to the Job One of the first practical decisions is whether to buy de-icing material in bags or in bulk, and the right answer depends entirely on the operation. Each format has clear advantages, and many operations end up using both for different purposes. Bagged material offers convenience, control, and easy storage. It is simple to handle, easy to distribute to different locations or crews, straightforward to store without special equipment, and convenient for spot application by hand. It suits smaller properties, businesses without bulk storage, and situations where portion control and tidiness matter. Bulk material, on the other hand, tends to make sense for large operations that go through high volumes, where buying in quantity lowers the per-unit cost and the operation has the equipment and space to store and handle it. The tradeoff is between the convenience and flexibility of bags and the volume economics of bulk. For many operations, the right approach is a mix: bulk for the high-volume core of the work and bags for flexibility, spot treatment, and locations where bulk handling is impractical. The key is to match the format to how the material will actually be stored, moved, and applied, rather than defaulting to one or the other out of habit. Thinking this through in advance avoids both the waste of over-buying bulk you can't handle and the expense of relying entirely on bags for a large operation. Rock Salt Is Not Your Only Option Rock salt, or sodium chloride, is the workhorse of winter de-icing for good reason. It is effective, widely available, and cost-efficient, which makes it the default choice for most operations most of the time. But it has limits, and understanding the alternatives helps you choose the right material for the conditions you actually face. The most important limitation is temperature. Rock salt becomes less effective as temperatures drop, and in genuinely cold conditions it can struggle to do the job at all. This is where alternatives come in. Calcium chloride, for instance, works at much lower temperatures than rock salt and acts quickly, which makes it valuable when conditions are severe or when fast melting matters. Operations that face hard freezes or need dependable performance in extreme cold often keep calcium chloride for sale on hand for exactly those situations, using it alongside rock salt rather than instead of it. The practical approach is to understand the conditions your property faces and stock accordingly. For many operations, rock salt handles the bulk of the work while a faster, colder-rated material like calcium chloride covers the extreme days when ordinary salt falls short. Matching the material to the temperature and the urgency of the situation is what separates an operation that stays ahead of winter from one that is constantly reacting to it. Securing Your Supply Before the Season Knowing what to buy is only half the equation. The other half is making sure you can actually get it when you need it, which means securing your supply before winter arrives rather than after it has already started. Timing is one of the most underrated factors in winter operations. The logic is simple. Demand for de-icing materials is highly seasonal and spikes sharply during storms, when everyone needs supply simultaneously. Prices and availability both move against the buyer at exactly those moments. By contrast, planning ahead, estimating your needs and arranging supply before the season, puts you in a far stronger position. Working with established rock salt suppliers ahead of time means your material is accounted for before the rush, often at better pricing and with the confidence that it will be there when the first storm hits. This kind of planning also lets you think clearly rather than react under pressure. You can estimate your seasonal needs based on your property and past winters, decide on the right mix of materials and formats, and arrange storage in advance. Operations that do this consistently spend less, worry less, and never find themselves making frantic calls during a storm. The effort of planning ahead is modest, and the payoff in reliability and cost savings is substantial. Storing and Handling What You Buy Securing supply is not much use if the material degrades before you can use it, which makes proper storage and handling an important and often overlooked part of the equation. De-icing materials are sensitive to moisture, and poor storage can turn a good supply into a clumped, hardened mess that is difficult to apply. The fundamentals are straightforward. Keep material dry and protected from moisture, since salt and ice melt readily absorb water and can harden if exposed. Store it in a way that suits the format, whether that means a proper bulk storage area or a dry space for stacked bags. Keep it accessible, so crews can get to it quickly when a storm hits and time is short. And handle it with the right equipment for the format and volume, which protects both the material and the people working with it. None of this is complicated, but neglecting it can undermine even a well-planned supply. Good storage practices protect the investment you made in securing supply early. There is little point in arranging your materials ahead of the season only to have them degrade before use. Treating storage and handling as part of the overall plan, rather than an afterthought, ensures that the material you secured is actually usable when the moment comes. It is the final link in a supply chain built to perform under winter conditions. Estimating How Much You Actually Need One question trips up operations of every size: how much de-icing material to buy. Order too little and you risk running short during a storm. Order too much and you tie up money and storage space in material you may not use. Getting the estimate reasonably right is a meaningful part of sourcing well. Several factors shape the answer. The size and type of the areas you treat, sidewalks, lots, entrances, and drive lanes, set the baseline for how much material each application consumes. The local climate matters too, since colder regions and those with frequent snowfall go through far more material than milder ones. Application frequency depends on how often storms hit and how quickly surfaces need to be cleared, which varies with the kind of property and the expectations of the people who use it. And the type of material plays a role, since different products are applied at different rates. Past experience is often the best guide. Operations that track what they used in previous winters, adjusted for the size of the property and the severity of the season, can estimate their needs with reasonable confidence. For newer operations without that history, it helps to plan conservatively and to work with a supplier who can replenish stock reliably, so that a low estimate does not turn into a mid-storm shortage. The goal is not perfect precision but a sound, slightly cautious estimate paired with a dependable supply relationship. That combination lets an operation keep enough material on hand to handle the season without over-committing to volume it cannot store or use. Thinking this through before winter, rather than guessing during it, is one more way that planning ahead pays off when the snow starts to fall. The Bottom Line Sourcing de-icing materials well comes down to a few straightforward principles: plan ahead, choose reliable suppliers before the season, match your materials and formats to your actual needs and conditions, and store what you buy properly. The operations that follow these principles move through winter with confidence, while those that improvise pay more and take on needless risk. Winter is predictable in one respect: it arrives every year, and demand for de-icing material spikes the moment it does. The businesses that prepare for that reality, rather than being surprised by it, are the ones that keep their properties safe, their costs controlled, and their operations running no matter what the season throws at them. A little foresight before the first snowfall pays off through every storm that follows.

Developing a Home Renovation “Master Plan”

William Hoffman Architect

4 Steps to Achieving a Rewarding Cost Effective Home Renovation 1 Home Renovation an Introduction A home renovation due to changes in family needs and space requirements can be a challenging, but also a rewarding experience. As a homeowner, gathering and coordinating resources and possibly help from professional consultants are required. Once the construction phase has started, patience, endurance and commitment to follow through are necessary. Despite the challenges, the rewards of a well-planned and successfully completed project are meaningful, adding aesthetic and economic value, also providing the opportunity to personalize a home, encompassing the function, comfort and aesthetics to accommodate individual taste and lifestyle. A renovation of an existing home is a viable alternative to moving or building a new home, assuming that a home is structurally sound, the expenditure to enlarge or improve can be a cost effective alternative. A home possessing charm, style, historical significance, established landscaping or an exceptional location could be a significant motivation to consider purchasing another home with the intent to renovate. The complexity of a project could be relatively simple, changing the use of a room, consolidating two rooms into one, or opening up a room to the outdoors. It could also be a more involved task requiring planning, design and construction documents to build a second floor addition, the addition of a new wing or completely gutting the interior. Some projects could be completed in a weekend’s work or more complex projects, using a “Master Plan”, a plan which provides overall guidance; a renovation can be accomplished all at once or divided into manageable projects over a period of time. With the home evolving gradually allowing the renovation to be planned, timed and tailored to meet individual needs and circumstances. The due diligence phase should precede the decision to renovate whether it’s an existing home or a home that is purchased with the intent to renovate. The due diligence phase will reveal the factors affecting the nature and scope of the project or if a renovation makes sense. Every renovation project is unique relative to personal requirements, architectural style & construction type. This guide will be helpful in developing an understanding of the preliminary groundwork required to realize a successful project. If properly planned, a home renovation project can be a positive and rewarding experience resulting in a comfortable, practical and an attractive living environment. The first step of the planning process is documenting the goals and long-range plans referred to as the “Project Program”. This will dictate the nature, scope and feasibility of the project. Providing a guide to achieving defined goals, the timing or phasing of the project and budget required to achieve the desired end result. 2 Documenting Existing Conditions Once the “Project Program”, has been established, the next step is to determine what there is to work with. This requires documenting the home’s floor plan and site elements which includes drawing an “as built” floor & site plan consisting of the existing exterior walls, interior rooms, doors, windows, etc. and surrounding site elements, landscape and other significant exterior features. Additionally understanding and noting on the “as built” plan, the structural, mechanical and electrical systems as necessary. Gathering the “existing condition” information defines what there is to work with, creating the framework from which to facilitate and organize the decision making process and develop effective “project program” solutions. 3 Evaluating Existing Conditions The goals and long-range plans have been established, and the existing floor plan and site elements have been documented. Before developing design solutions, the next step is to evaluate existing conditions. The evaluation includes: a detailed analysis of the structural, mechanical and electrical systems, determining the condition of the house, noting functional and aesthetic deficiencies. At the same time recognizing the home’s strengths, assets and evaluating its relationship to its site. The remaining parameters will be defined by the local jurisdiction’s zoning regulations, these regulations will define the “envelope”, within which the proposed project will be required to fit: •required front, side & rear yard setbacks •maximum allowable lot coverage & height The previous three steps have provided the necessary foundation to start the design phase. The goals and long range plans have been established, existing conditions have been documented and the evaluation of what there is to work with are now in place. This will provide the framework from which to facilitate and organize design solutions. The consolidation of this information is manifested in the development of the “Master Plan” which will become the road map by which sound decision-making can be made as a home renovation evolves. Keeping the project, on a linear path, avoiding redundancies and back tracking, on time, within budget, concluding with a well crafted finished product. After all the “up front” research and documentation has been completed, the design phase of the project can now precede, with the creation of diagrammatic design drawings. Organizing interior spaces, taking into account the external elements, prevailing breezes, solar orientation, view, existing outdoor features, etc. Through the development of schematic sketches themes will emerge followed by design development drawings. Wise planning and renovation decisions can save money and time at the same time provide a well crafted finished project. The “Master Plan” provides a strategic path in the planning and decision making process leading to a successful and rewarding home renovation, which will add value and considerable enjoyment, for many years, living in a newly renovated home. By virtue of having gone through these steps, frustrations sometimes encountered during a home renovation will be minimized, allowing the renovation to be a gratifying and rewarding experience. Being aware of the process allows one to become an “Educated Client,” which is worth quite a bit more than one might realize. The uneducated client may not realize the benefit of going through the planning, evaluation and documentation groundwork. He will only realize its benefits after having completed a prior renovation project. This rational approach keeps the design process on a direct path to achieving prescribed goals. 4 Exploring Design Solutions & Developing a Master Plan The previous three steps have provided the necessary foundation to start the design phase. The goals and long range plans have been established, existing conditions have been documented and the evaluation of what there is to work with are now in place. This will provide the framework from which to facilitate and organize design solutions. The consolidation of this information is manifested in the development of the “Master Plan” which will become the road map by which sound decision-making can be made as a home renovation evolves. Keeping the project, on a linear path, avoiding redundancies and back tracking, on time, within budget, concluding with a well crafted finished product. By virtue of having gone through these steps, frustrations sometimes encountered during a home renovation will be minimized, allowing the renovation to be a gratifying and rewarding experience. Being aware of the process allows one to become an “Educated Client,” which is worth quite a bit more than one might realize. The uneducated client may not realize the benefit of going through the planning, evaluation and documentation groundwork. He will only realize its benefits after having completed a prior renovation project. This rational approach keeps the design process on a direct path to achieving prescribed goals. After all the “up front” research and documentation has been completed, the design phase of the project can now precede, with the creation of diagrammatic design drawings. Organizing interior spaces, taking into account the external elements, prevailing breezes, solar orientation, view, existing outdoor features, etc. Through the development of schematic sketches themes will emerge followed by design development drawings. Wise planning and renovation decisions can save money and time at the same time provide a well crafted finished project. The “Master Plan” provides a strategic path in the planning and decision making process leading to a successful and rewarding home renovation, which will add value and considerable enjoyment, for many years, living in a newly renovated home.

Choosing a General Contractor in Chicago: Siding, Doors, and More

safe ZOnea

When it comes to home improvement projects, the contractor you choose can make all the difference. A skilled, reputable general contractor delivers quality work and a smooth experience, while a poor choice can lead to problems, frustration, and wasted money. For Chicago homeowners planning exterior improvements from siding to doors and beyond — understanding how to choose a good general contractor is essential. This guide covers what to look for and how to make a smart choice for your home improvement projects. The role of a general contractor A general contractor plays a central role in home improvement projects, overseeing and coordinating the work to bring a project to completion. For projects that involve multiple aspects or trades, a general contractor manages the process, ensuring the various pieces come together properly. This coordination and oversight are valuable, particularly for larger or more complex projects that involve numerous details and steps. Working with a good general contractor offers several benefits. It provides a single point of responsibility for a project, brings expertise and coordination to the work, and helps ensure the project is completed properly. For homeowners, a quality general contractor can make the difference between a smooth, successful project and a stressful, problematic one. Homeowners planning projects often look for a general contractor chicago near me to handle their improvements. Understanding the role a general contractor plays helps homeowners appreciate the value of choosing a good one for their home improvement projects, especially larger or more involved ones. Why the choice matters The choice of general contractor has an enormous impact on a home improvement project. From the quality of the work to the smoothness of the process to the ultimate result, the contractor shapes every aspect of the project. A skilled, reputable contractor delivers quality results and a professional experience, while a poor choice can lead to shoddy work, delays, cost overruns, and frustration. The stakes are significant, as home improvement projects represent substantial investments and affect a home that homeowners live in and value. A project done poorly can create problems that are costly to fix and diminish rather than enhance a home. This is why choosing the right contractor is so important — it's one of the most consequential decisions in any home improvement project. Homeowners do well to approach the choice carefully rather than simply hiring the first or cheapest option. Understanding why the choice of contractor matters helps homeowners give this decision the attention it deserves, recognizing its impact on the success of their project and their satisfaction with the result. What to look for in a contractor Choosing a good general contractor involves looking for several important qualities. Experience and a solid reputation are key indicators of a contractor's ability to deliver quality work. A contractor with a track record of successful projects and satisfied customers is generally a safer choice than an unknown quantity. Researching a contractor's reputation and past work helps in assessing their quality. Beyond experience and reputation, other important qualities include quality workmanship, clear communication, professionalism, and reliability. A good contractor communicates clearly, provides a clear understanding of the project and its costs, treats customers professionally, and follows through reliably. These qualities contribute to both a quality result and a positive experience. Homeowners considering exterior projects, such as new vinyl siding chicago installation, do well to evaluate contractors on these factors. Understanding what to look for in a contractor helps homeowners identify professionals likely to deliver quality work and a good experience for their projects. Considering the specific project When choosing a contractor, it's also important to consider the specific project and whether the contractor is well-suited to it. Different projects have different requirements, and a contractor experienced in the particular type of work is often a better choice. Whether the project involves siding, doors, a broader remodel, or other work, a contractor familiar with that type of project brings relevant expertise. For exterior projects in particular, experience with the specific work and the demands of the Chicago climate is valuable. Siding, doors, and other exterior improvements must withstand local conditions, so a contractor who understands these demands can deliver better results. Considering whether a contractor is well-suited to your specific project helps ensure a good outcome. Homeowners planning to update their exterior doors chicago or undertake other exterior work benefit from choosing a contractor experienced in that area. Understanding the importance of matching the contractor to the project helps homeowners make choices that lead to quality results for their specific improvements. Understanding the project scope and cost Before committing to a contractor, understanding the full scope and cost of a project is important. A reputable contractor should provide a clear explanation of what the project involves, the materials to be used, the timeline, and the total cost. Understanding these details upfront helps homeowners avoid surprises and make informed decisions. Vague estimates or a lack of clarity are warning signs worth heeding. Understanding the scope also means being clear about what you want and ensuring the contractor's proposal matches your needs and expectations. A clear, detailed understanding of the project protects both the homeowner and the contractor and sets the stage for a successful outcome. Taking the time to ensure you understand exactly what you're getting before work begins is worthwhile. Understanding the importance of clarity about scope and cost helps homeowners enter home improvement projects with confidence and avoid the misunderstandings that can lead to problems. Clear expectations are the foundation of a smooth, successful project. Making your decision With these considerations in mind the role of a general contractor, why the choice matters, what to look for, matching the contractor to the project, and understanding scope and cost homeowners are well-equipped to make a smart decision. The goal is to choose a contractor who combines experience, quality workmanship, clear communication, and reliability, and who is well-suited to the specific project, at a fair and clearly understood price. Taking the time to research and compare contractors, rather than rushing the decision, pays off in the quality of the work and the smoothness of the project. A home improvement project is a significant investment, and the right contractor makes all the difference to the outcome. Understanding how to evaluate and choose a general contractor empowers Chicago homeowners to make decisions that lead to successful projects and results they'll be happy with. The right choice is the foundation of a home improvement project that enhances a home for years to come. The bottom line Choosing the right general contractor is essential to successful home improvement projects, as the contractor shapes the quality of the work, the smoothness of the process, and the ultimate result. For Chicago homeowners undertaking exterior projects like siding, doors, and more, the key factors include experience and reputation, quality workmanship, clear communication, suitability to the specific project, and clarity about scope and cost. By evaluating contractors on these factors and taking the time to make an informed choice, homeowners can find a professional who delivers quality results and a positive experience. The right contractor is the foundation of home improvements that enhance a home for years to come.

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Sunbury, OH

J.Holderby - Renovations4 Reviews

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Repairs to a Victorian Hallway Floor in Harlesden

Tile Doctor Ltd

We received a request to renovate Victorian tiled hallway floor at a house in the London borough of Harlesden NW10. My client had modernised the heating system and this unfortunately required a section of the tiled flooring to be dug up so new pipework could be laid. After speaking on the phone, I arranged an initial visit to the property so I could properly assess the work required and provide a price for restoring the floor. During my visit I could see there was another section of missing tiles at one of the door thresholds which would need attention. Except for the missing sections of floor I could see that the tiles themselves were in good condition for their age and would respond well to a deep clean and fresh seal. I was confident on being able to source matching replacements for the missing tiles and reassured my client that we would be able not only repair the floor but also renovate it to a good standard. I gave them a price to do the restoration which they were happy to accept, and the work was booked. After some research I managed to source replacement tiles from the Vintage Floor Tile Company in Kent; Victorian tiles are still popular so there a few companies that keep stock so we can usually find a match. With the replacements in hand, work started by removing the cement and loose material from the missing sections of flooring and backfilling with self-levelling compound to bring the exposed base up to the right level for tiling. The tiles were then cut to shape as required to match the existing patten and fixed into place with a quick setting adhesive and then grouted. The floor was left to overnight to allow the adhesive to harden fully, and I returned the next day to deep clean the whole floor. To give the tiles are deep clean a strong dilution of Tile Doctor Remove and Go was sprayed onto the floor and left to soak in for ten minutes. It was then scrubbed into the floor using a rotary machine fitted with a with a black pad. This action lifted the dirt out of the tiles and the resulting slurry was removed with the wet vacuum. It turned out that the pores of the tiles were holding a lot of dirt, so the process was repeated until I was satisfied. Due to the age of the property, there was no damp-proof membrane installed so I do try to minimise the amount of water I use in this process as there is always a chance of exacerbating any latent efflorescence issues. Efflorescence occurs where moisture rises through the tile bringing with it salts from underneath the floor as it evaporates on the surface. This can lead to unsightly white marks appearing on the tile. To counteract this potential problem the cleaning was followed by an acid wash using Tile Doctor Acid Gel applied with a 100 then 200-grit pad, before finishing on a 400-grit burnishing pad. The floor was again rinsed with water after the application of each pad to remove the slurry and extracted with a wet vacuum. Once I was satisfied the floor was as clean as possible, we left site and the area was left to dry over the weekend ready for application of a new sealer. I returned on the Monday and started by taking a few moisture readings to check the floor was dry. The floor was in an acceptable range, so I applied the first of 4 coats of sealer. For this floor I chose Tile Doctor Seal and Go Extra which is specially formulated product that provides stain resistance with a hard wearing low-sheen finish. This product is also breathable which is an important feature for old floors, anything that blocks moisture from rising through the tile will cause it to become trapped underneath where it will pool and eventually reach out to the walls and result in rising damp. Once complete the floor looked brand new and I’m pleased to say with the deep clean and a fresh sealer applied it was impossible to tell the difference between the original and repaired sections of flooring. For the aftercare of sealed Victorian tiled floors, I recommend Tile Doctor Neutral Cleaner, it’s a mild day to day cleaner with a neutral pH that won’t damage the sealer. Many of the tile cleaning products you find in supermarkets are simply too strong. Andrew Newstead North London Tile Doctor

Desert Soul Mid-Century

Moderne Builders

Gorgeous master bath with dramatic retro "wave" tile. Peak Photography
Example of a 1950s bathroom design in Los Angeles

All About Fringe Trees

Five Star Tree Care

Are you looking for the perfect late spring and early summer wispy, white, fragrant flowering tree? If so, the fringe tree is what you are looking for! Not only do these trees create a beautiful addition to any yard, they can also make it look like it snowed when their petals fall. These trees don’t grow as tall as some other flowering trees, making them perfect for planting close to your patio, in small yards, under power lines, or as a shrub border. Our team at Five Star Tree Services has come up with some tips on how to care for these delightful trees and the different varieties they come in. Fringe Tree Appearance The average height of a fringe tree is about 10-20 feet tall. This makes it easy for it to fit into any garden nicely. The most prominent thing about this beautiful tree is its white fragrant flowers which bloom in May and early June. These flowers are grouped together in thin, fleecy hanging bands that are 6-8 inches long. These flowers appear all over the tree just before all the leaves start to sprout. After the flowers have fallen, you can enjoy the oval-shaped, dark green leaves for the summer and then the delightful yellow leaves during the fall. The female trees can produce a blackish-blue fruit after the flowers fall, this is a great way to attract your local birds. The bark on the tree is scaly and has red furrows with dark brown ridges. It does best in full sun with well drained but moist soil. It can also tolerate drought and is good with air pollution. With its strong branches but delicate flowers, in order to maximize your enjoyment of the flowers, make sure to plant this tree somewhere that is sheltered from the wind. The Facts Fringe trees are actually related to the olive family and are native to easters North America. They naturally grow on streambanks and hillsides in moist woods. Due to the tassel-like flowers, another name for this tree is Old Man’s Beard. As a remedy for gallbladder inflammation, previously, the bark from the fringe tree has been used in herbal medicine. It has also historically been used as a way to treat wounds. Varieties of Popular Fringe Trees There are 2 popular fringe trees: Chionanthus Retusus- this is a Chinese fringe tree. It is tall with lush branches and beautiful leaves. Other varieties under this are: -Pizazz -Carolina Moonlight -Rubrum -Emerald Snow -Burgundy -Snowdance Chionanthus Virginicus- this is the native easters North American fringe tree we have been focusing on. Care Instructions Luckily, these trees are easy to care for. To have a happy tree and many blooms, follow these tree care tips. Growth Zones- 3-9 Plant- in moist soil that has good drainage. Height- 12-20 feet when mature. The growth rate is about 6-10 inches a year. Sun Exposure- full sun Flowers- May to early June. The blossoms usually last about 2 weeks. Prune- Do not prune during dormant times. Once the tree is older, it won’t require much pruning. Simply cut out damaged, weak, or dead branches. Deer Resistance- deer rarely damage these trees. Threats With this easy to care for tree, you don’t have to worry about much. However, there are a few pests to look out for. In order to fight off pests like spider mites and scales, proper planting, watering, and fertilizing will keep it healthy and pest free. If a tree gets stressed, borers will take this opportunity to tunnel inside the tree and eat the bark. To keep these trees safe, avoid injuring them. These trees can also act as a secondary host for the emerald ash borer. Avoid planting a fringe tree in known areas where these invasive insects like to live. How Five Star Tree Services Can Help If you have been looking for the perfect flowering tree to plant in your yard, the fringe tree might be the best one for you! If you have any questions about what trees are best for your property, make sure to give us a call at (416) 990-3355! Here at Five Star Tree Services, we can offer different options and also offer you our Richmond Hill Tree Planting Services!

light gray stain at cedar siding

Moss Yaw Design studio

Engineered cedar siding creates beautiful gray-blue tones at the exterior of the home, while adding a textural element to activate the simple exterior design.

Tarpon Springs Luxury Vinyl Tile Project

Floor Coverings International of East Lake

Example of a large classic hallway design in Tampa with yellow walls

Why are White Shaker Cabinets Still Considered a Classic?

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Why are White Shaker Cabinets Still Considered a Classic? Every few years, if you remodel your kitchen because it feels old, then white shaker cabinets are what you need. Most homeowners feel the need to revamp their kitchen not because the cabinets have worn out but because the interior is a bit old-fashioned. One of the best solutions to this issue is to utilize white shaker cabinets. These are classic, timeless kitchen elements that last longer complements everything, and rarely make your kitchen look outdated.

For this reason, in this article, we have discussed why you need white shaker cabinets in your kitchen and how you can style them.

What is a White Shaker Cabinet?

White shaker cabinets are not new. In fact, these cabinets date back to 1700 when this style was found in every home. These cabinets have a classic look because of recessed door panels, a five-piece door, and a traditional look of pine, maple, or chestnut. Of course. white shaker cabinets are unique and attractive at the same time.

The material used to make these cabinets also makes them durable. You can easily purchase it in less pricing than other wood cabinets, and you can clean it easily. The simplistic structure of white shaker cabinets also makes them complement every type of kitchen; modern or traditional. You can find these cabinets in other light finishes as well, such as peach, off-white, brown, wood brown, etc. The reason we are focusing on white is that this color is timeless and the design of the shaker cabinet is too, which together makes the best combination. You can perfectly strike a chord between every kitchen element if you pair it with white shaker cabinets .

Why White?
The color which is always in style is white. It is highly unlikely to ruin your interior with this color if well-coordinated and properly lit. This is why white shaker cabinets are highly preferred by users.

Here are some reasons to choose white shaker cabinets over other options:

Timeless

Over years, our idea of perfect design changes, and our understanding of the interior also modify. This changes the way we want our kitchen interiors. Hence, if you select vibrant kitchen cabinets and off colors for your countertop, flooring, and paint, then you may end up changing it every few years.

To avoid that from happening, just use white shaker cabinets. In multiple decades, white shaker cabinets have never ceased being classic. White is timeless and it never goes out of trend. Even when you need to change the paint or fittings, you can reduce the cost of cabinets for multiple years.

Versatile

White shaker cabinets are versatile because you have an array of options. You can incorporate multiple elements in your kitchen and tweak color coding and design of countertop, flooring, and paint. For instance, with white shaker cabinets, you can pair white textured back tiles. You can even pair your white cabinets with a black marble countertop; two timeless interior elements together!

Clean

White is the color of clean. In hospitals, bathrooms, and hotel rooms, we find a lot of white because it is clean, fresh, and peaceful. This is why everyone is automatically attracted to this color; it looks clean.

However, you may actually have to make efforts to keep these white shaker cabinets clean from dust and dirt.

Complements Everything

Since cabinets form a big portion of your kitchen, it is necessary to make cabinets complement other interior elements. With white shaker cabinets, you don’t even need to worry about that. White compliments every choice of appliance, countertop, artwork, and flooring. If you decide to get marble grey flooring with white cabinets, you can make that work. If you want colorful kitchen furniture, white complements that too. If you wish to use artwork or warm lighting in your kitchen, white automatically goes well with it.

How to Style White Shaker Cabinets?

If you are styling your kitchen with new white shaker cabinets, here’s what you should keep in mind:

• If your kitchen is small, then white is definitely your color. It reflects more light, hence, makes your space look larger and shinier.

• When you have an open kitchen, you need to follow the same theme to the adjoining rooms and slowly phase it out. This consistency won’t make anything look odd.

• If the rest of the house is filled with artwork and colors, you need the same for your kitchen as well. All white may steal away the classic of shaker cabinets.

• Pair your wall textures and flooring choices with appliances, white cabinets, knobs, and other elements for the best look.

• If the theme for the rest of the house is subtle, then you can even design an all-white kitchen with white shaker cabinets.

Conclusion

Whether you are planning to revamp your kitchen/house or sell your property, white shaker cabinets are always classic. They make a statement in your kitchen and offer a new and clean look all the time. Just focus on coordinating other interior elements of your kitchen and stop worrying about cabinets. White shaker cabinets are durable, beautiful, and timeless! Purchase these classic units now.

Pesky Tree Pests – Spider Mites

Five Star Tree Care

During the summer, certain tree pests are particularly active and bent on the destruction of your beloved trees. Spider mites are one of these pests that like to make themselves at home all over your plants. Their only goal in life is to eat plant leaves. A great way to stop their destruction is being able to recognize the warning signs of their infestation. Once you have identified them, you can take care of them and put in precautions in order to keep them away and stop any future problems from them. We here at Five Star Tree Services have come up with ways that you can identify this pest and get rid of it before it’s too late for your precious plants. Some Info on Spider Mites You might have seen these little pests before but didn’t know what they were. They are these tiny creatures that are related to ticks and spiders. What They Look Like In order to see them properly, you will need to look at them through a magnifying glass. These little bugs come in a number of different patterns and colours. Being so incredibly small, they are roughly a millimeter at the most. For reverence, that’s about as thick as your credit card. Trying to look at them without a magnifying glass, all you might see are these tiny moving dots that might be brown, red, black, or yellow. Causes of Spider Mites Due to their shier tininess, these little invaders can waltz right into your gardens undetected. It’s even possible that you have bought a plant for a nursery or garden center that has had spider mites on them. They can even be brought into your garden by the wind. These little pests have the ability to spread very quickly due to their ability to eat a number of different plants. They are not very picky when it comes to eating your plants. They like outdoor and indoor plants, deciduous and evergreen, virtually nothing is safe from them. How To Tell You Have Spider Mites Spider mites prefer to cut and feed on the bottoms of tree leaves, however, the damage they do can be seen at the top of the leaf. Three key things to look for that indicate you have a spider mite infestations are: Yellowing or bronze look to your tree in one or many different areas (common with a big infestation) Silky webs that are woven around the leaves and stems Little yellow or white spots appearing at the top of the leaves/needles If you are suspicious that your plant has spider mites, one way to know for sure is holding a sheet of paper under an infected branch and shaking it. You will be able to see the little mites on the paper. Rid Your Plants of Spider Mites Whether it’s the summer or winter, follow these tips for treating spider mites. Summer: You can use a forceful water spray to knock them off of your tree. Once they are gone, periodically use your hose to rinse your trees for the season. Make sure to get the bottom of the leaves because this is where the mites like to live. Winter: This also includes any time before the buds come out in the spring. If your tree has spider mites, during this time, you will only see the eggs settled on the branches of your tree. Apply dormant oil to all the eggs before they hatch. It is also handy to know what natural predators eat spider mites. Certain rival insects such as lacewings and predator beetles will aid in getting rid of your pesky mites. Preventing Spider Mites Spider mites are most active during drought season. When trees are stressed, this is when they attack. If you are experiencing extended hot days and long dry periods, it is important to keep your trees hydrated. This means giving them at least an inch of water a week and making sure you have enough mulch around them. How Five Star Tree Service Can Help Spider mites are a pest. Catching them before they do any permanent damage is important. If using the dormant oil or spraying your tree with water doesn’t seem to be working, you can give us at Five Star Tree Services a call at (416) 990-3355 and we will come and help take care of them. Visit our website to see a full list of our available tree care services in Toronto!