Month: November 2019

Upgrading

How To Cool An Apartment Without Air Conditioning

Posted on by Mervin McGrafan

As the warm air comes, it is time for you to plan what kind of activities you can do. But it is not the only thing you should think about. When you stay at your apartment, it will surely be hot and mostly uncomfortable. The first thing that comes to mind is turning on the air conditioning. The problem would be with the electric bills, and you want to save as much electricity as possible.

Good thing there are a lot of alternatives for that. They might not cool as fast as air conditioning, but they still can be done and make it work.

  1. Fans

Aside from air conditioning, an electric fan is an easy way to gain cool air. To make it cooler, place a block of ice in front of it, and it will be like having air conditioning. Another great tip is instead of having it steady in one direction, you can have it rotate so that the air will circulate in the room.

Another kind of fan is the ceiling fan, and it is also good for air circulation. The problem would be is that not all apartment renters are allowed to install one. If your apartment is though, grab that opportunity for it is a great addition and alternative of cooling.

Exhaust fans are usually placed in kitchens and bathrooms to get rid of the smell. It can also be used for other purposes. It does not give cool air, but it does get rid of the air that is heating your apartment.

2. Curtains and Blinds

The heat from the sun is what makes the temperature in your apartment increase. Because of that, you will need to block it from entering. Have your curtains and blinds closed. This is especially needed when you leave most of the day or during midday when the heat is most apparent. If you have the capacity, you should consider investing for blackout curtains. It is great protection for your apartment. It will not only help for blocking out the heat, but it will also prevent the harmful UV rays from entering. 

3. Night Air

The heat during summer does not really last all day, and there may be some cool air at night time. This will be the time you open your windows and let the cool air in. To make it more effective, you can have a fan directly with the window to help with the circulation. 

Other Tips

It is not just about cooling your apartment but also helping yourself. The best way for you to fight off the heat is by taking care of yourself.

  1. This is the best time for you to indulge and treat yourself. You can go out and buy some ice cream or other frozen treats. You can also make some of your own milkshakes and refreshing juice. Make sure to stay hydrated in times like this and drink lots of water.
  2. At this time, avoid wearing clothes that easily absorbs heat. Instead, wear some clothing that is light in color and weight.
  3. You might not always have the time to dip in a pool, but you can have a shower or bath to cool yourself up. It is said that adding some peppermint will also help.
Planning

How To Improve Typing Speed At Home

Posted on by Mervin McGrafan

Nowadays, it is all about technology. Because of that, every office and establishment have computers. It is a must now or else they will be left behind.

For this reason, it is important for people to know about technology. It is easy to obtain especially with the younger generation who live with it. There are also certain the needs to be developed that will be helpful in getting a job. One of those is typing. It is important because most jobs would require encoding and if one is a fast typer, it will be more productive.

The great thing about this is you can practice to improve your speed and also be a touch typist. You do not need anything fancy and also can do it at your own home. Just remember the following, and you are in good start:

1. Posture

You will first need the proper posture for typing. It will not only affect your speed but also your body. It will be bad if you are slouched. Always sit and have your back straight. Also, do not have your eyes too near to the screen for it is not good for your eyes. 

2. Keyboard

You should also know about your keyboard. Most keyboards have a standard setup, so you do not have to worry if you change keyboards suddenly. It would be helpful if you memorize the keys of the keyboard. It will be more helpful to the practicing of touch typing. 

3. Position

As you get to familiarize yourself with your keyboard, you should also know the proper positioning. This is a great help for you. The tip for this is to familiarize yourself with the home keys first which is the middle part. It is where your fingers should always be placed. Most often, the F and J have the feel to put your index fingers on. Even if it does not, remember to always have them there. Once you were able to master the positioning, it will be easier for you to map the keyboard.

4. Practice

As the saying goes, practice makes perfect. Before you go on with your speed, it will be much easier if you are accurate first. This means you will have to type without making any mistakes. Ignore the speed with this one. To have that, you will practice what was mentioned above, and that is the positioning of your fingers and also memorizing which will help with mapping. Once you are accurate and very familiar, you can now practice with your speed.

5. Relax

As you are practicing, do not be tensed. As said before, it is all about familiarizing. Do not be to hard on yourself if you are not fast enough. You will go there with practice and also experience. Most skills are easy for some because they are used to it and found their rhythm for it. You can have that as time passes by. Also, be sure to take breaks if it gets too much for you.

Design

What Is A Studio Apartment Vs. A One Bedroom

Posted on by Mervin McGrafan

You are looking for an apartment. It could be your first one or just have the need to find a new one. It will be something new. It is a bit overwhelming because of the various choices and kinds.

If you are planning on living alone, you may be finding something that is smaller. While on a hunt, you might encounter the two types that are most popular for those who live alone. These types are called the studio apartment and one-bedroom apartment. What is there a difference? What will be best for you?

Studio Apartment

A studio apartment is a unit with a single room that contains a bathroom. But that is it, the unit has the kitchen, bedroom, and living room in one space. It will be up to the owner how they will divide and form their rooms.

One-Bedroom Apartment

A one-bedroom apartment, on the other hand, is your typical unit with a bedroom that is set aside from the living room and kitchen which at times are separated or together. It also has more space than a studio apartment. It also usually has more features such as a balcony and a fireplace.

What to Choose?

Now that you know the difference between the two, it is time to choose. You may have an idea what to get, but you should also keep in mind the following when choosing:

1. Budget

As a one-bedroom apartment have more space, it is also pricier than the studio apartment. In addition to that, because of the small space, you will not need additional furniture and decor for a studio apartment, so less expense for you. It is also for this reason that this type of unit is easier to set it up.

2. Lifestyle

Are you a person who loves inviting people over or hosting parties? Then you would want to choose a one-bedroom for that. For one, it is bigger, so it can fit in more people. Also, you should remember that a studio only has a single space for all, so you will also entertaining them in your own bedroom. Add to that, if you have some of them staying over, you will not have enough space for them to sleep in.

This also includes your belongings and commodities. If you have many of them, you will need to have the extra space to put them in.

But if you are a person who is just usually by yourself, a studio might be enough for you. This also includes if you are a person who is frequently out of town, so you might not need the extras.

3. Location

It will also depend the place that the apartment is located. A studio apartment will be cheaper even if it is in a part of the city. Because of that, it will be nearer to establishments and even your workplace. The will be one-bedroom available too but at a higher price. If you want to live in a cheaper one-bedroom apartment, it would outside the city. If you will not mind additional commutes and walks, this will be for you.

Design

Why Should You Hire An Interior Designer

Posted on by Mervin McGrafan

Now that you have your own home, what is next will be making it look it is yours. The problem is that you have no idea how you will start or how will it be designed. The best way to start is to hire an interior designer. You might be thinking that it is not worth it. For one, you may be able to do it by yourself with the help of some research and friends. Another is it will be costly. And of course, you would not know if you will be able to like their ideas.

But it is not what it is though. It will actually be a big help to you if you hire one. There are some of the reasons:

1. To Know What’s Best

One of the questions you would ask after moving or having a new home is how will it be designed? There are many types and kinds of designs, and you have no idea how well that applies to you. With an interior designer, you will be able to achieve that. Keep in mind that they trained and studied for this, so they know better. They would be able to assess both what is needed for your space. They would also incorporate your interests because once you give it away and add some suggestions, they would know what will be the best style for you. 

2. To Save Time

You will also not spend your time thinking about what will be needed in your home. With the designer, they will be able to know that with just one look. They also surely know about the products and brands. Because of that, it will save you time from researching all of them. If you have a preference, they would know what to suggest to you. Aside from that, they will also know who will contact for other things such as architects or contractors and also for the constructions that will be needed.

3. To Save Money

Aside from time, you will also save money. You might think that it will be more expensive because of the services you have to pay, but it is not the case. Remember that they have a good eye when it comes to spaces. That means they know what is best for your home, and you do not have to buy something that does not deem fit for your home. Also, they will help you with increasing the value of your home for they know how will it be. You may even save a lot with their suggestions and budgeting.

4. To Look Great

You might think that will be able to make your home look good by yourself because you already have your own aesthetic. But nothing beats those who are trained for this. Also, many have tried it on their own but in the end, they just got frustrated. By hiring an interior designer, you will be saved for that. They will surely know every detail that needs to be added and also how they can be functional.

Appeal

How To Make Your Apartment Smell Nice

Posted on by Mervin McGrafan

When visitors come to your home, it is not just the sight and decor that will be stuck to them. What they will remember would be how it smelled. If you are living long enough in your home, you might not notice it, but those who come in will do.

Apartments might have a distinctive smell. Some would be bad, some would be good, or some would be somewhere in between. The great thing is that you can have something your own, and it is not too much work and costly.

1. Baking Soda

Baking soda will not give off a smell. In fact, it will do the opposite. What the baking soda will do is absorbs the smell. So if you have anything that is not so pleasant such as shoes or old carpets, you will just have to sprinkle it at your carpet and furniture and leave it overnight. The smell will be absorbed after that. What is great about this is it will make your furnishings, rugs, and carpet smell fresh even as time passes or how much people had passed by.

2. Scented-Candles

As the baking soda will not give off any smell, you will need to have something that will make your apartment smell good. The first on the list will be scented candles. It is easy to find and get. You can even make them yourself. Then what you can also do is place them somewhere the smell will be easily absorbed. 

3. Stove

When you cook something, the smell will surely spread around. It is the reason why they are needed to be exhausted at times. But you can also use the stove for the purpose of making your apartment smell good. You can use it to simmer some herbs and fruits, and you will have your own air freshener. This will be great if you are planning to have a party or expecting some visitors. 

4. Maintain Cleanliness

To maintain your home clean will be the best way to avoid the beginning of smells. Because of that, you will need to have your place cleaned up. Garbage bins especially should always be emptied for food and other things might start to decay. If you have a garbage disposal in your sink, you will need to have some citrus peels with water run through the disposal, and it will do the work. Then, you will also need to clean up your refrigerator and vacuum regularly to get rid of crumbs that might form a smell.

5. Air Freshener

Air fresheners will be the fastest way to make your apartment smell good. They are also available in many forms. You can have the spray for easy access. But then, you can also use car air fresheners and put them in your air conditioner or vents. If you are thinking of saving money for this then instead of buying, you can make one that can also be doubled for cleaning. With this, you can also have something that will kill bacteria.

Upgrading

How To Furnish An Apartment Cheaply

Posted on by Mervin McGrafan

Once you have your own apartment, you will surely have responsibilities. Especially if you are renting one, you will need to pay for it monthly. Add to that, you will need to think about bills that are on due and also other necessities.

Because of that, you will have to keep in mind your priorities. Furnishing your apartment might be not on the top, but it is a must. You will live on it, so there are things that you will need to have.

The good news is that you will not need to spend too much on it. There are cheap ways for you to have your apartment looks like it is yours and to also look good.

1. Look for Sales

Instead of looking for the fresh and brand new arrivals among the shops, look for those that are out of season. These sales often come out of the arrival of the new season. So if you happen to have time to shop during these times, grab the opportunity. Another time is during the holidays though you would need to have the patience of shopping with others. You could also look out for clearance sales because you will never know that there might be something in your style and interest.

2. Thrift Shops and Yard Sales

Other ones you can watch are thrift shops and yard sales. You can go online and search for something near you. You can surely find a number of thrift shops in the city if you look around. As for yard sales, if you know someone moving then there is a possibility they will be selling some furnishings they do not need or too bulky to move around. It does not even matter if someone is moving or not, because people would have something that they just want to get rid of, and also lookout for those.

3. Use It Again

If you have old furniture that still can be used, have it around. You do not need to have something new always. Another is hand-me-downs from friends or family. You can also lookup online. There are sites that offer pre-loved or used furniture for free. You can look at something within your area and have a look for yourself.  

4. Do Some DIY

One of the similarities you would have from the things mentioned above is that you might like the style too much. Some even that are used are not of the great condition because it might have some stains or damages. If you are creative and love doing DIY, do not fret about that. You can fix some of the damages or change it up by painting or exchange the clothing of seats. You can even reuse them in an entirely different way like shelves for a shoe rack.

5. Dual-Purpose Items

There are a lot of furnishings nowadays that are of dual-use. Because of that, you will not need to buy two items at once. One example of this is seats that can also be a sleeping space such as daybeds or futons. Then there are are also ottomans that can be doubled as storage. This is especially good if you have a small space or have visitors often.

Planning

How To Improve Wifi Coverage In Your Home

Posted on by Mervin McGrafan

One of the greatest things technology has developed is the internet. You can almost do anything with it. You can have research whether it is a quick one or a more in-depth. Instead of going to malls or groceries, you can order what you need online, and it will be delivered to you. Communication is also one of the best things that the internet has to offer. You can now send emails or messages in just a second. No need to wait for weeks or months. You can also easily call your friends and love ones in a video.

Through the internet, you seem can do things with just your fingertips and do not even need to leave your own home. But to make it more useable and better, greater coverage is a must. It will take a little bit of work, but it is easy to do.

1. Upgrade Router

It is not just about selecting a good router but also always keeping it updated. You may have a good one but if you do not update, it will be no use. The reason for this is because malware and viruses might take and affect your speed. Another reason is that as time goes on, gadgets and technology develop. For this reason, routers also go with them, especially with the competition.

2. Stronger Antenna

Some would think it is absurd to even have an antenna nowadays, but it is very useful. With the antenna, you would be able to obtain signals. Routers usually have one, but it is usually short and weak. Because of that, if you would want to make it stronger that will also improve your wifi, you should get a stronger antenna. There are several types, but you would like to find the one that is enough to improve your internet and boosts the signal. This will save you a lot as you will not need to buy a new router every time.

3. Extender

Another thing that will help with improving your wifi is buying an extender. There are also others such as repeaters and boosters, but they all almost do the same, and that is to have the signal broaden. Also, its job is to catch some signals from far away, so this will be helpful if you live in a place that is far range. You can use some apps to help you finding coverage or for the extender itself.

4. Right Security

One of the main problems in the slowing down of your internet is hackers and leechers. Because of that, you will have your network really secured. First is to not leave your signal open. Then you will also need a strong and great password that is hard to guess and unpredictable. If you have to change it up, do so. Also, you can install some good internet security and antivirus to help watch out for that malware. This way, it will also protect your device and will also be able to warn you about certain sites that may hack you.

Design

How To Pick A Design Style For Your Home

Posted on by Mervin McGrafan

With your home, you will have responsibilities for it. The first thing that will come to mind is the bills that are needed to be paid. But in addition to that, you will also need to maintain your own home. It is not only to increase the value of your own but also for your benefit. Then you will also want to make your home as your own. It is not by having it in your name but by making it look like it is yours. 

To do that, you will have to know and learn about the different kinds. Here are some ways how you will pick them:

1. Know Your Budget

The first thing you should need to know is how much will you be allotting with your furniture and decor. Some designs might be a little bit pricier than the rest. If you have the capacity, you can go for it, but there are also other cheaper choices you can look upon. Also, what you can do is to be patient and creative. You can go to thrift shops or could do some DIY for yourself if you think your budget will not be able to carry the design you prefer. 

2. Know Your Interests

Then there are also your interests. If you are into arts and crafts, you likely would want to have your home reflect on it. Your creativity will be seen if you will have it displayed or used around your home. You can also have your creativity in repurposing some of the furniture and make them more useful or just fun and whimsical.

If you are more of a quiet type and into books, you can also use that. Have some shelves to accommodate your collection. Then you will make your home warm and cozy so that you will be relaxed while reading a book. You can have this in your living room where you can also share with your visitors or the comfort of your own room. You can also have it all around if you want to and make it work.

Another example is having a traditional or vintage looking home. If you are a person who is into old-style furniture or antiques, then this is for you. Heirlooms and statement pieces that are passed on you will be handy with this style.

3. Know Your Personality

Your personality will also affect in choosing the design of your home. How? Well, it is through your personality you would see your preferred design. Like for example, the minimalist design is mostly preferred those who want to keep things simple. Boho design, on the other hand, tends to be for those who are more free-spirited.

Your lifestyle also counts. Inviting close friends and family will tend to like a cozier and more welcoming home. If you like having parties then the design of your home will also affect that, because it means you will have something that has more space and also easy to adjust and to clean up. 

Appeal

How To Make A Cheap Apartment Look Nice

Posted on by Mervin McGrafan

To have someplace to live is a great accomplishment on its own. Sure, it is a need, but it would be something you gained no matter what. It also does not matter if it is big or small or even just rented, you can still have it as your own.

When you are living in an inexpensive apartment, one of the things on your mind is that it is temporary and would leave as soon as you can move to a better one or even bought one. But that does not mean it will stop you in making it look nice. It is still a place you will live in, and you can make it so.

1. Add Color

If it is allowed, the first thing you will need to do is to repaint your apartment in something you like. Then, you could also add color through the decors. You can place some rugs and artworks. Another way to add color is by adding plants which are also a great way to add life in your home and also bring in nature that will be lacking if you are in a city.

2. Add Comfort

To have your place feel like home is for it to be cozy. And to be cozy, it should be comfortable. Pieces of furniture such as couches and beds will do that. Having a rug is not only good for adding color but can also put in some comfort. But of course, coziness is all about what makes you feel good and relaxed and nothing beats heating up by a fireplace in cool nights. Lighting can also make a difference because of the ambiance it gives. Natural light will be the best, but you can also add different kinds of fixtures around your apartment.

3. Add Personality

To make the apartment looks like it is really yours is by adding your personality and interests. If you love to read, you can add on shelves with your favorite books in it. That is also the same if you are into movies with your DVD collections or TV. If you are into art or crafting, you can have your creations displayed all around. It is not only with your interests. You can also add in some framed photos around or can also be trendy by having polaroids on a string then displayed as a banner. It can also be themed like musical or travel. Just let your imagination flow with this, and it will be your own.

4. Add Function

Adding function in your apartment means it is used and lived in. This can be done by adding some appliances in your kitchen and really use it. Even if you are not much of a cook, you can still make toasts or microwave or even just fry something. You can even set up a coffee machine which will be great if you love coffee instead of buying one in shops. Then, you can also have things that are double in purposes such as ottomans for extra storage or daybeds and futons for your naps and sleeping area for your visitors.

Upgrading

What Upgrades Add Value To A House

Posted on by Mervin McGrafan

One of the things that you own that will be a great asset is a home. It is a great thing to have but what is greater is that once you decided to sell it for some reason, you will surely get something back. But do not have your hopes for it to be high because it will need a lot of work for that to be gained.

Some of those work will require a bit more expensive, but it will also be beneficial for you. You will be able to enjoy it too while you still have it. Having added value is just a plus.

You can just upgrade just about anything, but the following will be the greatest factors to increase your asset:

1. Kitchen

One of the best rooms to remodel in your home is the kitchen. The reason for this is it is what pulls buyers. It is also said it is what gives you the biggest return. The reason for this is because of the upgrade of materials that are used in the kitchen such as cabinets and counters that may be from wood to marbles. Also, there are other utilities such as the sink. Then add to that the gadgets and appliances that will be upgraded. You do not have to go over the top, just make sure that the kitchen is nice and cozy.

2. Bathroom

Another room that will give you a big return is the bathroom. It is also one of the rooms that most buyers will ask about. But what is better is that it does not need too much or anything major. You will just need to upgrade your plumbing, vanity, and toilet. You might also modernize your faucet, shower, and sink. Another thing to consider for upgrade is making them more environment-friendly. Fixtures are also a must in upgrading. 

3. Curb

There are a lot of sayings about being love at first sight or judging the outside appearance. This is also true for a house. The first thing people notice is the exterior, and that is why it is important to make it look good and pleasing to the eye. Curb appeal is not just some term invented, it is actually needed especially if you are looking for potential buyers. Because of this, you will have to have it always clean so that it will always look great in appearance. You might also add something that is attractive such as a pathway.

4. Landscape

The yard is actually part of the curb appeal, and you will need to maintain it to remain its look. So, you will have to mow and weed it regularly. Landscaping is also a great way to add value. All you need to do is to choose the right plants and trees to be added. You could ask some help from landscapers, so you will have the idea then do the rest by yourself if it is one of your hobbies or would want less expense.