Where To Place Oriental Rugs?

Buying oriental rugs is one thing, but placing them effortlessly in a room is a completely different challenge. You need to find the perfect place for putting your rug, that’s not only going to be functional for the furniture but look beautiful at the same time. Here are some great placement ideas for area oriental rugs.

In The Living Room

The living room is a foolproof place to put your rugs in and they’re really easy to decorate in this space too. You can put an oriental rug on the floor, under the coffee table or you can even have a floor-covering rug to cover the entire perimeter of the living room if you want it to be a no-shoe spot.

Putting rugs in the living room is going to make the space look a lot more inviting and warm and you’ll get a cozy vibe from the room.

In The Kitchen

If you’re apprehensive about putting a rug in the kitchen, then don’t be. This idea is an amazing and unique way to place rugs in the oddest of places in your house. You can place an area rug at the entrance of the kitchen, under the table, or anywhere else and it’s going to look beautiful.

In The Hallway

Oriental rugs are also available in runner varieties and they look breathtaking, to say the least. Runner rugs are more quirky than traditional area or large oriental rugs because they have intricate horizontal and vertical designs and motifs that cover the entire runner width.

You can place these rugs in the hallway and that’s going to give an illusion of a longer space, which is always a huge plus. Runner rugs are also quite easy to manage and maintain because they’re lightweight and they can also be pretty inexpensive, as compared to thicker oriental rugs.

On The Stairs

Rugs on the stairs may seem like a thing of the past, but it’s slowly getting back in trend. Rugs can be placed on top of the stairwell and even on the steps and this is not only for beautifying reasons, but for audible reasons as well.

Sometimes, the clacking of shoes on the stairs can be really annoying and to absorb the sound, rugs are used as pads to make your steps soundless. Essentially, the material of the oriental rug absorbs all of the sounds and it’s pretty pleasant to the ears as well.

As Wall Décor

Rugs as wall décor? Yes, you heard it right! Oriental and Persian rugs Virginia are not only meant for the floor, but you can find creative ways to decorate your room with them as well and one of those ways is to use them as a tapestry for the walls.

If your walls are a bit bare and boring and they need that extra bit of oomph, then you can take those lighter oriental rugs that are decent in size and then hand them up. This way of decorating your walls is so unique and you don’t see it every day, which is why your room will be a head-turner.

In The Bathroom

While you can put rugs anywhere, the bathroom is also an amazing place to put area rugs in. You can place them on the entrance or even inside by the sink so that you can stand on top of the rug and go about your after-shower routine.

Keep in mind, however, that rugs in the bathroom will be susceptible to more damage from water, so if you’re okay with the fact that your rug is going to get wet from time to time, then you can most definitely decorate your bathroom with these rugs.

Under The Bed

If you’re looking for cool ideas to place an oriental rug in the bedroom, then your bed is a perfect place. You can place a large rug under the bed that peeks out from all of the corners and that’s going to give you plenty of foot space to rest your feet on.

You can also place a shorter area rug right by the place on the floor where your legs land, and that’s going to be a welcoming and comfortable feeling for you. You can also place a rug on the foot of the bed, as decoration or even drape it over your headboard for a unique look.

Layer Rugs In The Bedroom

If you want the rug to be the center of attention, then you can amplify the look of your room, by placing rugs on top of each other, in a layering fashion. Layering area rugs on top of one another is going to look extremely cozy and beautiful at the same time.

The trick with layering is that you need to opt for patterns and colors that aren’t specifically the same, but they complement each other. This is going to make the layering experience a lot better and the rugs will definitely be an eye-catcher.

Under Furniture

Rugs can also be used as anchors for furniture. You don’t need to get those hideous furniture leg pads that don’t do anything for visual appeal. Instead, you can get area rugs and place them strategically under certain sofas, tables, and even shelves, to not only hold said furniture in place but also give the room an overall beautiful look.

For rugs under the furniture, you can go for simple designs, but you can definitely play around with colors and go for some bold and vibrant choices as well.

As A Central Rug

If you want a more minimal idea for placing a single rug in the room, then this placement area is perfect. You can place a single, decent-sized rug in the center of any room. This can be your bedroom or even your living room, but the main purpose of placing the rug in the center is to add to the symmetry of the room.

You can go for any type and shape of oriental rug for the center, but the most common and popular ones are square, oval, and rectangular rugs, because they’re not only classic options, but they go well with everything else in the room.

On Top Of Furniture

Lastly, if you want to use oriental rugs as drapes for furniture, then you can most certainly do so. You can take flimsy and lightweight oriental rugs and drape them randomly on couches, daybeds, and even tables.

This is a very unique idea of placing oriental rugs in a room, other than on the floor. You can go for the richest, boldest patterns and colors for this because all of the effects will be neutralized by the placement of the rug and it’s going to be a treat for the eyes.

Conclusion

Oriental rugs can be placed anywhere, but a bit of thinking and the right symmetry will make all of the difference and your room will be transformed for the better. So, keep these placement ideas in mind, the next time you want to decorate with oriental rugs. And for buying rugs, look for wholesale oriental rugs VA as their cost is usually lower than what most retailers offer so you get beautiful oriental rugs while saving some money.

4 Major Hair Coloring Problems And Their Solutions

When it comes to hair coloring your hair at home in a DIY manner or getting it done by the best of experts, you cannot guarantee that mistakes won’t happen. There is no right way or wrong way because it depends on many external factors. But there are fewer chances of mishaps when done by experts of hair salons specializing in color. However, worry not as hair coloring mistakes can be cured as well.

Why Do Hair Coloring Mistakes Happen?

Your hair color depends on many factors such as:

The condition of your hair whether it is damaged, pre-colored, pre-bleached, box dyed, graying roots, etc.
The texture of your hair, whether it is curly, straight, thick, thin, dull, shiny, soft, coarse, or frizzy.
Your skin tones.
The products that you used.
The concentration of the bleaching agent that you used.
The time span that kept the color on.
Weather conditions such as humid or dry weather.
How your hair perceives the hair color.
The shade you want versus the shade can actually come in your hair or not.

All the above-listed factors affect the color of your hair. For instance, if you have dark-colored or brunette hair, then blonde or ash cannot easily be implemented in your hair and a lot of bleach has to be used to get the shade and still it will not be the same. The same hair color will look different in straight and curly hair.

If you have very damaged hair, then the hair color will further damage your tresses and give a dull and lifeless appearance. Previously color-treated hair will never give the same color result.

The ultimate statement is that do not panic! Hair coloring mistakes have solutions as well. These blunders happen to the best of us. You learn from your mistakes.

Main Hair Coloring Problems With Solutions

Problem No. 1: Your Hair Color Came Out Too Dark

The most common hair color mistake. Either you did not keep the hair color for the proper time or you did not fully saturate your hair. Whatever the case it can be treated.

Solution

Applying hair color again to further lighten is not the solution as it will damage your hair more. What you need is a clarifying shampoo that helps in cleansing out the excess product buildup and chemicals and leads to faster fading out of the hair color after a few washes. This will lighten your hair color and also cleanse the hair and strip your hair out of the natural hair oils which can dry out the hair and make them brittle and frizzy.

Make sure to use softening and repairing hair masks to nourish your hair and give it the boost it needs to restore the lost moisture.

Next time when you decide to color your hair, make sure to use a priming shampoo before coloring to clear out all the chemicals, dirt, oily buildup, and pollution from your hair so that the required color can be attained.

Problem No 2 : The Color Of The Roots And Ends Do Not Match

This is another common problem. The skin of your scalp is high in temperature as compared to your hair ends which are not connected to your skin.

Also, your new root growth is fresher as compared to the ends which face constant wear and tear and have lived longer so the roots are frizzy, dry, and damaged, and even have remnants of previous color and treatments. Heat can also activate the color and increase it. Hence the reason for lighter roots and darker ends.

Solution

The first solution is that you generally apply hair color from the roots till the ends, so the color lifts faster on the roots and stays for a longer time which causes the roots to lighten. Apply your hair color from the ends to the roots, or better yet apply from the ends top up and leave the roots for the time being.

After 10 to 15 minutes, make a fresh color and then apply on the roots and then wash it all together. This will prevent a lighter color at the roots since the ends take more time for color activation.

Also, making a fresh color is advised rather than making a color and using it after 15 minutes because then the mixed color will activate and the chemical reaction will lead to different hair color. If you aren’t satisfied, you will need a visit to one of the top rated hair salons Rockville.

Problem No 3: Your Hair Color Did Not Come Out The Exact Same Shade As Shown On The Box

Box dyes usually create a layer of color around your hair and do not get fully penetrated as done by professionals. Also, the natural color of your hair is responsible for this.

Asian hair and dark-colored hair cannot get light blonde or light colors easily on their hair. First, they will have to go through a process of bleaching to lighten the hair and then the desired color can be attained.

Solution

You possibly cannot get the same shade as listed on the box at home. The only solution is to go to an expert stylist and get your hair colored from them, whichever color that you desire. They will be able to best guide you regarding the choice of your hair color and how it will look on your face and hair.

Problem No 4: My Gray Hair Did Not Get Covered In Hair Color

Gray hair is the more stubborn hair to get color on because of its texture and coarse appearance as compared to your natural hair.

Solution

Since gray hair requires more time for the color to get processed, you need to apply your hair color for more time where your hair is the grayest, such as your roots and hair hairline. Then, apply it all over your hair and then come back to reapply on your gray hair so much so that they should be fully saturated in hair color.

You can keep the hair color on for an additional 15 minutes and also wear a cap to retain the heat to activate the hair color faster.

What Else?

Now you have the solutions for the most common hair color problems. It is recommended to first watch videos regarding proper hair color application and the dos and don’ts from the internet if you cannot get it done by professionals.

And do not be fooled by multiple advertisements as what they show in magazines, social media, and TV is filtered and edited. Everyone has bad hair days and hair problems. Do not despair and love yourself for what you are and sport your hair color confidently.

Other than that, remember to nourish your hair from within by taking a proper diet and healthy meals and vitamins to retain the luster and health of your hair. Take care of your hair and take hair food supplements, oil your hair, avoid heated products as often as you can, get a head massage, let it air dry, and use hair masks.

Conclusion

So now that you have the solution to all your hair color mistakes that you once made or if you are a newbie then you can avoid these mistakes and get the best hair color at home. If you got a bad hair dye job or don’t want to risk it, go to a hair color correction hair salon Rockville.

Can You Fix Your Commercial Oven Yourself?

Commercial ovens are slightly different from regular household ovens in terms of features and usage frequency. Since these machines are used throughout the day, the chances of them breaking down are relatively much more as well. So, in this article, we are going to look at some common commercial oven problems and see if you can fix them on your own before calling a commercial over repair technician.

Oven Not Heating To Appropriate Temperature

If your commercial oven is not heating to the appropriate temperature, there could be several reasons ranging from a faulty heating element to a gas igniter not working. Fortunately, you can easily diagnose the issue and maybe get the oven working again.

Before you do anything else, check the temperature sensor. It should not be in contact with the interior wall of the oven. Sometimes, while repairing, performing maintenance, or moving the oven, the temperature sensor gets misaligned and comes in contact with the interior wall.

This causes the sensor to record incorrect readings. At the same time, use an ohmmeter to make sure the sensor is working properly. If the meter shows no values, it means the sensor will need replacing. However, if the sensor seems to be working fine, you will need to check the heating element and gas igniter.

These components often develop problems if the oven is regularly maintained. Layers of dirt and dust can clog the heating element and gas igniter, not allowing the oven to function. Furthermore, it might also be that the oven needs calibration.

You can do it on your own by following the user manual or looking up videos on the internet.

Oven Not Self-Cleansing

As mentioned earlier, commercial ovens contain a lot more features that help with cooking and other basic tasks. That said, modern commercial ovens also come with self-cleaning features. However, that does not mean the oven will completely clean itself on its own if it is too dirty.

You will have to make sure it receives proper care and maintenance. If your commercial oven does not clean itself even after manual cleaning, you might need to replace the related components or even the control board.

In this case, you will be needing a professional’s help as technical issues like this carry a lot of risks. You can easily end up damaging other components without even getting near the actual problem.

Oven Not Cooking Food Evenly

It is often the case that customers complain of their meals not being cooked evenly. Sometimes, it could be the chef’s fault but, in most cases, it is the oven that seems to be the culprit. If you notice that your oven is not producing consistent results, it means something is wrong.

In the case of uneven cooking, you will need to check the igniter and thermostat. These tend to be the most common contributors to such problems. To check the heating element, simply preheat the oven and see if the elements light up.

At the same time, check the equation between the temperature and temperature sensor. If either of the components are showing trouble, you will simply need to replace them. Electric components can hardly be repaired or will not work for long even if you were to fix them somehow.

Replacing the components will require access to the components for which you will need to consult the user manual. Make sure to turn off the unit from the main power source.

Unresponsive Gas Burner

If you own an oven that runs on gas, an unresponsive gas burner is one of the most common malfunctions you will come across. In most cases, it is a dormancy issue. If the oven has not been used in a long time, dirt and dust particles can clog the burner.

To fix the issue, simply remove the burner grate, base, and cap. Try cleaning and removing any food particles. At the same time, inspect the wiring connecting the igniter and the control module. With time, these wires could wear out causing a malfunction.

If everything seems to be fine and the oven is still not working, it means you are looking at a far more complicated issue. You might need to replace the igniter or check the gas line.

This problem is common with commercial deep fryers too. If the gas burners are not responding, consider deep fryer repair Springfield or contact the utility company that supplies gas to your facility.

Faulty Control Board

A faulty control board means that your oven is dead. Then again, there could be several reasons causing the issue. In most cases, power surges tend to damage the control board. The best way to ensure that the oven won’t show any readings on the screen.

It will not respond even if it is getting power. Plus, you will need to access it to inspect for any burn signs or shortenings. Unfortunately, you will not be able to fix it on your own and will need a technician. Plus, control boards cannot be repaired. Even if it is, you won’t be offered any guarantee. So, it is better to replace the control board to avoid headaches later.

Oven Door Not Closing

Since commercial ovens are opened and closed numerous times throughout the day, it is obvious that the door will develop problems in the future. For instance, the oven door not closing is a common issue that can disrupt the business. Fortunately, fixing it is not that complicated either.

The first thing you need to do is unplug the oven and disconnect the door. Check the hinges and screws. If there are any signs of wear and tear, simply replace them. In addition to that, check the gasket around the door. The gaskets are made of plastic or rubber and will develop cracks with time.

So, if there are any unusual signs, simply replace the gasket. A faulty gasket may also cause the oven door not to close properly. Modern commercial ovens are loaded with safety features and won’t function if the door is faulty.

And plus, it might also affect the quality of your food.

How Can I Prevent Commercial Oven Problems?

Most commercial oven problems can easily be avoided if you perform regular inspections and maintenance. This helps you identify any unusual signs and fix them before your business is affected. The last thing you would want is your oven not turning on while the customers are waiting for their orders.

You should know that maintenance is not only about cleaning the oven but also repairing or replacing faulty components. Sometimes, the unusual signs or noises go unnoticed which eventually turns into a major problem.

However, if you were to closely observe the oven on a daily basis, you will be able to identify minor issues that could easily turn major. This is why it is your responsibility as an owner to be on the lookout for anything that might be suspicious and prevent it from happening again.

Conclusion

Commercial oven problems can vary in nature. Sometimes, you can fix them on your own, whereas in other cases, you will need the help of a commercial appliances repair Fairfax expert. However, it is important that you regularly inspect and maintain the unit to prevent complications in the future.

Do Allergy Shots Work?

Allergic reactions are very hard to deal with, especially with the changing weather and triggers being almost everywhere, it seems impossible to protect yourself from an allergy attack. This is where allergy shots come in. Here is everything you need to know about allergy shots and whether you should visit an allergy center for allergy shots or not.

What Are Allergy Shots?

Allergies are caused by things that are present in the air, water, or even in the things you eat. If your immune system isn’t reacting well to these things, then it can activate the defense mechanism of the body and this is what causes severe symptoms of allergies and reactions, like high fever, difficulty in breathing, hives, etc. These things or triggers which can cause severe allergies are known as allergens. Allergens can be:

Pollen
Hay
Pet fur or dander
Food products containing things like dairy, gluten, nut oils, etc.
Fungus or mold

Immunotherapy or an allergy shot is a form of treatment that involves introducing the allergen into your bloodstream and letting the immune system get used to it and creating antibodies against said allergen. In this way, you are strengthening your immune system, as well as preventing the outburst of a bad allergic reaction in the future.

To understand immunotherapy, you must know what type of allergy you have in the first place. Allergy shots tend to work on certain allergies and you need to figure out whether you are the perfect candidate for getting these shots or not.

Allergy shots are very similar to vaccine shots, in the sense that you get them administered subcutaneously and there’s a certain schedule that you have to follow in order to ensure that the allergy shots are effective and are combating your allergies and symptoms.

After several shots, your immune system will be developed and trained to fight against the allergens by itself and you don’t need to have allergy medicine on hand to treat symptoms. Your body is going to do this for you, by generating antibodies in the bloodstream. This will strengthen your defense mechanism and you will see the difference in no time at all.

Allergies Which Are Treatable With Allergy Shots

As mentioned previously, there are only a couple of allergies, which can be “treated “by allergy shots. The main objective of allergy shots isn’t to make allergies go away forever, but they allow your body to strengthen and protect itself by constantly introducing an allergen in your body, and over time, your immune system will retaliate, through symptoms, less and less because your body is getting used to the foreign entity, aka allergen, and it’s fighting it off on its own.

So, it’s not necessarily a treatment, rather it’s a way of making your body used to allergens, so that the next time you’re exposed to it, it will not cause a violent reaction.

The allergies, for which allergy shots have been found successful are as follows:

Pollen Allergy

Pollen allergy occurs in the spring and summer months and it can cause a lot of severe reactions in the body, like breaking out of hives, extreme fever, and chest constriction.

Pollen is a very common allergen that is found in flowers and it’s extremely lightweight so it can be transported from one place to another, through mediums like air and water.

Pet Allergies

Pet allergies can take place when you are exposed to pet hair and fur. If you inhale the fur or are in contact with it, then it can lead to a breakout of red patches all over your face and arms, swelling on the face, watery eyes, and an irritated throat.

People who suffer from pet allergies are instructed not to have pets around them or in their houses because that can lead to aggravated reactions.

Insect Allergies

Insect allergies are caused by biting of insects like wasps, honeybees, and more. The symptoms of insect allergies include constricted throat, difficulty in breathing, wheezing, and coughing.

Dust Allergies

Dust allergies is also another very common allergy, which can occur at any time of the year. If you are exposed to dust or mites, then it can cause a fit of coughing or wheezing and you will feel like you can’t breathe because your throat will be tight and constricted. Your chest will also feel very compacted and you can’t breathe properly because of the fact.

This is why people with dust allergies are advised to wear masks at all times because dust is virtually anywhere and everywhere, and if you’re not looking for a severe allergic reaction to deal with, then it’s better to prevent coming into contact with the allergen.

Allergies That Are Not Treatable With Allergy Shots

The allergies that allergy shots can’t manage to treat include various food allergies, contact allergies like latex allergy, and medicine or drug allergy. For these allergies, it’s better to go the traditional route, which is to avoid the allergen at all costs and keep your medicine handy at all times, in case there’s a bad reaction making its way toward you and follow the instructions of your allergy specialist Germantown.

What Happens In An Allergy Shot Appointment

If you are considering getting allergy shots for your allergy, then this is how a general appointment will go with an allergy specialist.

Firstly, the doctor will diagnose your allergy properly. This means a lot of blood and patch tests will be done, to pinpoint exactly what kind of allergy you’re suffering from and whether or not it’s treatable through shots.
Once you have the official diagnosis of your allergy, you can go forward with scheduling your first allergy shot appointment. The doctor will give you a time and day to come visit again and the first shot will be administered.
During the first appointment, there will be backup plans for treating the symptoms, because your body will not react well when it comes in contact with an allergen. You might feel weird or the symptoms of normal allergic reactions might resurface and that’s completely normal. The doctor will give you allergy medicine to deal with the symptoms during the first few appointments.
After some appointments, and this number is going to be different for different people depending on their health, immune system, and tolerance in general, your symptoms will start to fade and you will feel no symptoms after getting the shot. This is a clear indication that the allergy shot is now compensating the immune system and it’s in action. Your doctor will also do several tests, after some appointments, to make sure that the antibodies are being produced by the immune system and that there is no other side effect of the allergy shots.
This process can span over some years, but it’s very effective and a lot of people can live allergy-free for years to come, without relapsing. The key is the right diagnosis and punctuality with appointments.

Conclusion

There you have it! Allergy shots or immunotherapy is a newer way of treating allergies, and for a lot of people, it has been pretty successful. Consult your allergy doctor Manassas as soon as possible, to get started on your journey to saying goodbye to allergies for good.

All About Tile Countertops You Need To Know

Countertop materials are pretty much endless in variety. One of these materials is tile. Tile countertops seem to be making a comeback and if you want to opt for this material in your kitchen for countertop replacement, then here is everything you need to know about it.

What Are The Types Of Tile Countertops Available?

Tiles have come a long way and today, there is a plethora of variety available. You can get tiles made out of porcelain or ceramic, which are the most common kinds of tiles. But there are also tiles available made out of natural stones. Natural stones are mined in the form of big slabs, and a lot of manufacturers can make tiles of these slabs as well.

So, you can get the look and feel of a natural stone, but in tile form, which is amazing. Tiles can be made out of natural stones, like granite, travertine, and even quartz. They will add a nice element to your kitchen and your countertops will look unique and very beautiful.

Tiles Are Heat-Resistant

One of the biggest advantages of tiles is that they are extremely resistant to heat. Their heat resistance is up there with granite and other natural stones. One of the biggest selling points and common features of natural stones is that they are resistant to heat, but this quality is not just limited to natural stones anymore.

Tiles are quite insulating and they don’t get damaged, even if you deal with pots, pans, and hot foods directly on their surface. Most man-made materials lack this property, but tile is one of the few materials which can give you protection from heat and it won’t lead to the formation of those ugly stains on the surface of the countertop.

However, if you still want to play it safe and be sanitary, then you can use trivets and wooden cutting boards to cut hot meats, foods, and vegetables.

Tiles Are A Puzzle Of Designs And Patterns

The appearance of tiles is kind of like a beautiful puzzle with intricate and abstract tile designs. Tiles are arranged and installed in a way, which makes the whole countertop surface look like a work of art. There is a huge variety of designs and patterns available in tile and you can get them in just about any color as well. You can go for vibrant colors with interesting patterns and that’s going to make your countertops stand out in the kitchen.

You can also go for basic-colored tiles, which are available in solid hues with minimal patterns. This design aesthetic is perfect for someone who wants a muted kitchen with minimal accents. There is so much variety in tile countertops that you will want every single design.

Tiles Are Not As Durable

Tiles are marginally strong, but they are not something that can’t ever break. This is one of the few major drawbacks of tiles and that’s the fact that they are bound to break and chip under the impact of forces.

They can easily chip from the sides and crack too, because they are thin and they can’t endure a lot of force. They can last for a fairly long time if you take care of them properly, but their longevity is no way near other natural stones and thick slabs like granite, quartz, and limestone.

In comparison, however, it is much stronger and more durable than marble, which is the most fragile material in countertops. So, if you’re confused between choosing tile or marble countertops NC, then you already know that tile is going to be a better option.

Tiles Are Not Stain Resistant

Tiles, like most natural stones, are porous. A porous material basically implies that there are a lot of small holes or pores present all over the surface of the material. These pores are responsible for sucking in all kinds of liquids present on the surface of the material.

This can lead to damage from the inside as well as stains which can be a pain in the neck to remove. Sounds pretty serious, right? This is why the best way to get rid of stains and make the whole countertop waterproof is to seal the surface.

Tiles also need to be sealed, so that they can last longer and look clean in appearance. No one wants to look at stained countertops.

Tile Counters Are Easy To Install

One of the best things about tiles is that they are very easy to install in the kitchen, to the point where you can even do it by yourself if you have the time. Of course, the results are going to look very different if you compare your work with that of a professional. But if you’re in a pinch and want to change a tile or two to replace the cracked and broken ones, then you can most certainly do it by yourself and it won’t take a lot of time either. All you need is some strong adhesive and a couple of tiles and you are good to go.

They Are Reasonable In Price

Tiles are reasonable in price. The price may vary from one retailer to the other, but if you have good bargaining skills, then you can get a good deal on tiles, which is anywhere from $2 to $3 for ceramic tile.

Natural stone tiles can be a bit on the expensive side, but they are generally available for $4 to $6 per tile, and if you can stretch it, you can also include installation at this price point. It is an inexpensive alternative to getting natural stone countertops installed in your kitchen.

Piece Of Cake To Replace

Tiles are easy to replace. Yes, they can chip and break easily, but it’s not the end of the world. You can easily replace the old or broken tile with a new one, in no time at all and with a couple of supplies. All you need for this is a tile-removing tool, which is a long and thin scraper.

You will remove the tile from the countertop and then apply adhesive all over the cavity. Let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes and then you can put the new tile on it and press on it to adhere it in place. You can scrape off the excess glue, from the sides, with a small sharp tool.

They Look Great In The Kitchen

Tiles have a very modern and chic appearance to them. They don’t look as chunky as normal slabs of countertops do. It is a very beautiful layout and all credit goes to the fact that tiles are thin and they can impart appeal and style to your kitchen.

Darker tiles will look much better against a contrasting white or light-colored kitchen, without looking too harsh. So, you can play around with different color schemes until you’re happy.

Conclusion

There you have it! Tile countertops look extremely elegant and minimalistic and they add a modern appeal to your entire kitchen. So, if you’re looking to capture this very essence, then tile countertops are perfect for you. Hire granite countertop installers Durham NC for the installation of tiles or any countertop material.

How To Spot And Treat Wounds?

Tree wounds are very common, especially considering that trees endure a lot of damage imparted by the outdoors. Here is everything you need to know about tree wounds, how they can affect trees in general, and should you hire tree services.

What Are Tree Wounds?

You may or may not know this, but trees have their protective barrier against harsh weather conditions and other living organisms like fungi and bacteria, and that is the bark. However, sometimes the bark can get injured or exposed to the environment and this can cause the tree to become weak and ultimately die as time goes on. So, a tree wound is defined as anything which harms the bark in any way and it leads to the decline of the health of the tree. These wounds are very common, especially with older trees or trees which are grown in harsh and unfavorable environments. Now the real question is: How do tree wounds form?

The answer to this is two-fold. The break in the branch or trunk can be small. It can be a small hole caused by pounding something sharp into the tree. Alternatively, the wound can be caused by something major, like a branch or part of the tree being dislodged from it, because of hurricanes, water, and winds.

Trees are living beings and they can also be injured when their protective mechanism is under threat. Tree wounds can also occur because of fungus or mold growth around the bark of the tree. These things are major issues and they can ultimately lead to the tree dying or getting extremely malnourished no amount of manure, water or pesticides can save the tree, if the core issue of the wound isn’t treated. Fungal infections in trees are nothing less than a nightmare and they can’t be treated as easily, so you always need to look out for them.

How To Spot A Wound In Trees?

Now that you know what tree wounds are and how they are caused, the next order of importance is how can you identify an injury in a tree. Here are some signs you need to look out for:

Observe the change in color around the bark. The injury is usually a lighter color, than the actual bark color, with a darker ring around the perimeter.

The injury or wound might be present on the bark in the form of a circle. Some circles are small, while some can be bigger in size. The bigger the injury is, the more severe its nature will be and you will need to do something about it, as soon as possible.

Tree wounds can also be present in the form of straight lines or slashes. Sometimes, there might be unsuccessful attempts to hack a tree down and if the bark is cut with an axe incompletely, then the slash can expose the bark and it can lead to major problems. Over time, these slashes can get deeper, bacteria and other microorganisms can take refuge in these cracks and the tree will ultimately get weak.

There might be broken parts around the tree like places where old branches used to be and those places can be a perfect place for a tree wound to deepen.

Small nail-like holes can also lead to the tree being wounded. These small holes are usually found near the base of the trunk, about 1 to 2 feet above the ground and this is mainly the work of woodpeckers. These small birds have a tendency to poke their beaks in the trunks and create small holes in the trunk, which if left untreated, can lead to deeper and more serious wounds in the tree bark.

How To Treat Tree Wounds?

Like any generic wound treatment, the best way to deal with an injury is to dress it and that’s exactly what you need to do with trees. You can get in touch with arborist services Kensington for tree inspection.

Here are some ways by which you can treat tree wounds and bring the tree back to life.

Paint The Bark

A lot of the time, all you need to do to prevent a tree wound from getting worse, is to seal it with some sort of liquid. The best way to prevent tree wounds from deepening is to apply paint all over the exposed area of the bark. This is going to help a lot in treating the wound and there won’t be more penetration.

Use Petroleum Solvents

The only way a tree wound can worsen is when callus forms. Callus is the lighter-colored gaping circle that forms on the tree after it’s been wounded. The best way to avoid this from happening is to use petroleum-based solvents, like tar or some kind of oil, and apply it to the wound.

This liquid solvent is going to act as a barrier between the wound and the outside environment and there won’t be any intrusion of unwanted organisms in the wound and the tree will heal itself over time.

Scribing

Scribing is the process of peeling or cutting away the exposed and protruded part of the tree wound. You can easily do it with a knife, but you need to be careful when working around the wound.

Scribing is a trick that can go both ways. It does enlarge the size of the injury on the tree, but it also kick-starts the process of healing and after some time, the tree bark will look exceptionally better than it was before. Just make sure that after peeling away the wounded areas, you “dress” the wound with either paint or some sort of petroleum-based product, to protect the tree.

Preventing Tree Wounds In The Future

Here are some things you can do to prevent tree wounds from occurring in the future.

Keep the bark, at least the lower part of the trunk, concealed, especially if you’re planting young trees. Prevention during the first few years will do wonders for you in the future.

Whenever you use any shearing, pruning, or gardening instruments on the tree, make sure that they are clean. If you can, try to allocate separate instruments for trees and other plants so that there’s no chance of cross-contamination. This might seem far-fetched, but you will see that your trees will be much healthier if you take this extra step.

Always look out for wounds in the early stages. You want to treat the wound before it gets to a point where nothing can be done. Look for small holes, slashes, and gashes on the trunk and see if there is anything concerning.

If you are a beginner with trees and tree health, then it’s best to get some help from someone who knows the ins and outs of trees. You may want to consult a professional gardener or someone who is decently knowledgeable.

Conclusion

There you have it! Tree wounds can, ultimately, be responsible for the declining health and wearing of the trunk and it can lead to the tree looking weak and in a bad shape. So, it’s better to identify the wounds and do something about it. If the tree is dying, you should consult tree removal companies Chevy Chase for cutting down the tree.

Why Is My AC Turning On And Off Repeatedly

If your air conditioning unit is frequently turning on and off, it is a sign of an issue that you must look into. The best way to fix this problem is by hiring an HVAC repair service. However, DIYers can use this guide to find out the major causes of an AC turning on and off repeatedly (short cycling of an AC).

Clogged Air Filters

Air filters are used to keep the evaporator coil and the air ducts clean. Dust and debris can clog the filters and they may require cleaning. If clogged air filters are not cleaned, the evaporator coil may freeze which can lead to various issues one of them being short cycling of the AC unit.

Moreover, clogged and dirty air filters restrict the airflow. This puts stress on the unit and can cause your air conditioner to turn on and off repeatedly.

Keep in mind that dirty air filters not only cause HVAC issues, but it makes the air conditioner use more energy increasing your energy bills. Therefore, clean or replace the air filters of your HVAC as required.

Thermostat Location

AC short cycling doesn’t always mean a problem with the air conditioner. In some cases, the culprit is the location of the thermostat.

If the thermostat of your AC is installed near the supply air vent or near a window through which sun rays impact the readings of the thermostat, your AC may turn on and off repeatedly without completing its cycles. It happens because when a thermostat is near a supply air vent, it will receive cool air and signal the AC to turn off much before the whole room or house is cooled.

Low Or Leaking Refrigerant

When the refrigerant (Freon) levels of an air conditioner are low, the AC might turn on and off frequently. Refrigerant is the coolant that is required to absorb heat and cool air. But when the refrigerant levels are low, the required amount of it to absorb heat and cool air is not present. The compressor doesn’t get the required aid to keep functioning normally and the AC starts turning on and off frequently.

Similar things happen if the refrigerant is leaking because a leak will reduce the levels of the refrigerant. In major leakages, the air conditioner may not turn on at all.

Refrigerant levels can be checked by a professional so whether you think that the refrigerant is low or leaking, consult an expert.

Oversized AC Unit

An improper HVAC size can lead to short cycling of the AC. If your AC is bigger than required for your home, keeping the temperature cool would be far easier for the unit. So, it will cool down much more quickly and turn off. This will appear as short cycling.

It may appear as a good thing that the AC is cooling your home and shutting down quickly, but this can lead to the breakdown of the unit because it is not completing its cooling cycle fully. Moreover, an oversized unit increases energy bills as well.

On the other hand, if you have an undersized AC unit, it will keep running constantly without cycling off.

The problem of an undersized or oversized unit can’t be fixed and the only way to fix it is by replacing the unit and installing an AC of the correct size.

Miscalibrated Thermostat

If your thermostat is miscalibrated, it won’t correctly detect the temperature of the room. Because of this, it will send on and off signals to the AC at the wrong times causing the HVAC unit to short cycle. So, calibrate your thermostat or have an expert do this.

Moreover, a faulty thermostat can cause the same problem as a miscalibrated thermostat. The thermostat won’t detect the temperature correctly due to malfunctions. For example, the room won’t be cool enough but the thermostat will send the off signal to the AC. In some other cases, it will keep the AC on even when the set temperature is reached causing the unit to run constantly.

Conclusion

A short cycling AC means that one or more components are not working as they are required. Consult air conditioning companies Fairfax to have a technician visit your place and inspect your HVAC unit.

When Should You Inspect Your Chimney

Usually, homeowners don’t give attention to the chimney unless the fireplace is not working. This behavior can lead to problems later when the chimney is dirty or damaged and causes accidents like a chimney fire or smoky fireplace. You need a chimney inspection to avoid problems and keep your fireplace providing warmth safely. Look for the below signs to know if your chimney needs inspection.

It’s Been More Than A Year Since the Last Inspection

A chimney inspection is required at least once a year so that your chimney is checked for leaks, cracks, creosote buildup, crumbling chimney mortar, and other issues. Many homeowners, get their chimneys inspected at the beginning of the winter season.

However, if the last time you had your chimney inspected was more than a year ago, you should consider a professional chimney checkup. Moreover, schedule a chimney inspection a month before winter every year so it doesn’t slip through your mind.

There Is Soot And Creosote Buildup

Soot and creosote are by-products of burning wood. Soot buildup is possible in oil and gas fireplaces as well. Both are black, tar-like substances that are flammable.

These substances keep getting produced and sticking to the walls of the chimney. When the buildup is thick, it can catch fire and cause a chimney fire.

We suggested earlier to get an expert to inspect your chimney yearly. However, you should keep inspecting your chimney every month or week, especially in the winter months when you’re using your fireplace daily.

With the inspection, you can notice problems and consult chimney experts. So, if you notice a 1/8 inch of soot and creosote layer on the chimney liner, get a chimney inspection. The professional will inspect the chimney and thoroughly clean it with special tools.

You Just Bought A New House

There are many things you should get inspected after buying a house. One of them is the chimney. This is necessary because you can’t know the condition of the chimney unless it’s inspected by someone. The chimney can have cracks, leaks, creosote buildup, spalling bricks, or other problems, so you must not skip a chimney checkup to ensure safety.

The Smoke From The Fireplace Is Filling The Room

A smoky fireplace is caused by burning wet wood or faults in the chimney. So, check your wood and make sure that it’s dry and seasoned. If it is, then you should perform a chimney inspection to know why the room is getting filled up with the smoke coming from the fireplace.

The cause of a smoky fireplace can be a closed damper or blocked chimney. Moreover, the reason can also be the absence of a chimney cap and water seepage.

Additionally, if your fireplace is not smoky but it’s giving off a weird smell, it can carbon monoxide. You should get your chimney inspection immediately.

Debris In Your Fireplace

Many animals and birds take refuge in a chimney to protect themselves from the cold. They can also bring leaves, twigs, and other items to make nests. Some of these leaves and sticks can fall into the fireplace and are a clear sign that you should inspect and clean your chimney.

Furthermore, debris in fireplace can be a hint of chimney cracks as well. A chimney inspection is necessary to determine the cause of the problems and perform repairs.

Stains On The Exterior Of The Chimney

A discolored chimney is a sign of various problems depending on the color of the stain. Chimney discoloration is easy to spot because it’s on the exterior walls of the chimney.

Black stains on a chimney mean excessive creosote buildup and require a checkup and cleaning.
On the other hand, blue or green stains indicate mold or algae growth on the chimney which is due to any moisture-related issue.
White stains are due to moisture in the bricks and the affected bricks may require replacement.
Red or brown chimney stains can result from rust. It could be water damage inside the chimney or rainwater flowing from the rusted chimney cap onto the chimney walls staining the walls.

Conclusion

Your chimney should be in tip-top condition to ensure the safety of your home and family. To avoid problems, get your chimney inspected by chimney contractors Bowie once a year.

How Do You Fix A Furnace Fan That Keeps Running

When the blower fan of a furnace keeps running continuously it is a sign of a problem which should be taken care of as soon as possible by heating repair services. However, you should know the reasons why it happens and the things that you can do to fix it.

Check The Thermostat Settings

The furnace keeps running issues could be because of incorrect thermostat settings. Therefore, check the settings of your thermostat first when you identify that the furnace is running without cycling off.

You should focus on two things when checking the thermostat settings. Firstly, the thermostat fan settings should be on AUTO. If the setting is at ON, switch it to AUTO because the ON button forces the furnace to keep blowing air until it is switched back to AUTO. Change the settings and wait for a few minutes to check if the furnace cycles off.

The second thing to check is the temperature settings. Sometimes, a furnace doesn’t turn off because the set temperature is too high and the weather outside is too cold so the furnace keeps heating and blowing hot air continuously to reach that temperature. If the temperature is too high, set it to low and notice any changes.

Ensure The Fan Limit Switch Is Not On Manual Mode

The fan limit switch controls the functioning of the furnace blower. You can find it inside the panel cover of your furnace.

When the fan limit switch is set correctly and working in optimum condition, it turns on the blower a few minutes after the thermostat sends the signal for heat and turns off the fan a few minutes after the heat cycle ends.

So, check the fan limit set and make sure it’s not on the manual settings because it will overall the thermostat settings and make the blower run continuously. You can check it yourself if you have knowledge of the furnace you have. See inside the furnace’s hood and you’ll notice a white button. It is the fan limit switch.

The button should not be pushed in because it means the manual mode is on. Push the switch out to switch it to the AUTO mode. If not sure, simply try to push the button out and check the furnace.

If you can’t find the fan limit switch, let a furnace technician check this for you and also change the settings if it is in manual mode.

Faulty Fan Limit Switch

A malfunctioning fan limit switch can also be the cause of the blower fan running all the time. You would have to replace the fan limit switch as soon as possible with an expert to fix the problem. This will also ensure an inspection from the expert who will be able to tell you more about the issues and also spot other problems if any.

Other signs of a faulty fan limit switch:

The furnace starts blowing cool air
The furnace begins short cycling (turns on and off in short intervals)

Thermostat Wiring Problems

If the wires in the thermostats short out they won’t be able to send signals to the furnace when to stop and start. This can keep the furnace running without stopping. You should inspect the thermostat and get it repaired or replaced for fixing the problem.

Fan Limit Switch Wiring Issues

Similar to the thermostat wiring, if the fan limit switch wiring is shot, it will stop the fan limit switch’s control over the fan. So, the fan may run continuously. You should perform repairs or replacement of the fan limit switch.

Furnaces Require Regular Maintenance

If you don’t want your furnace to break down in the middle of the night when it’s freezing outside, ensure regular maintenance. Replace the air filters, clean the air ducts, change the thermostat batteries, and follow the user manual for best results.

Conclusion

When a furnace doesn’t stop and keeps running all the time, the causes of the problem are the thermostat or the fan limit switch. An inspection can show if you only need to change their settings or if they are faulty and require replacement. Make sure to hire furnace repair services DC for fixing your furnace problems.

What Is Knee Osteotomy? Who Needs It And How To Prepare For It?

Knee injuries are hard to deal with and if you’re suffering long-term, then it’s better to visit an orthopedic surgeon and opt for an osteotomy. Here is everything you need to know about knee osteotomy.

Knee Osteotomy

Osteotomy basically means cutting off the bone. So, in general, a knee osteotomy is the process of cutting the bone of the knee, which can either be the tibia or femur, in order to alleviate the pressure and stress on the bone or the knee joint.

After cutting, the newly shaped bone is readjusted so that there isn’t any difficulty in moving or doing anything with your knee. It is a procedure done on people who have bone disorders like osteoporosis or arthritis and the kneecap is affected.

The earlier you get the surgery done, the better it will be for you. It will alleviate the pain in the knee as well because by cutting the bone and adjusting it, the weight is shifted and it seems to ease out any tension and pain in the kneecap.

Who Needs A Knee Osteotomy?

If you are suffering from any of these disorders, then you are a candidate for getting a knee osteotomy:

Osteoporosis, where the bones can get extremely porous and even the smallest impact can break or shatter it.
Early onset of arthritis, where only one knee cap is damaged, then you can get an osteotomy in order to distribute the stress of your weight on both knees perfectly.
Bone deficiencies, in which you have naturally delicate bones and your knee caps are under a lot of stress.
Here are some things you should know before getting this procedure done:
You shouldn’t be older than 60.
You should have an active lifestyle.
You should have adequate weight before getting this procedure done, otherwise, it may not make a huge difference.
If you experience pain in only one knee cap, then you should go for an osteotomy. If you get frequent pains in both of your knees, then this surgery might not be the best option for you to consider.
If you stand for longer periods of time and experience excruciating pain in the knee, then you can get this surgery don’t after consultation with your doctor.

Surgery Preparations

Here are the necessary preparations you need to do before the osteotomy takes place:

You will need an Anesthesia clearance before the surgery. For this, you will need to be admitted a day or two before the actual osteotomy.
You will need to stop smoking, and taking any blood thinning medication a few days before the osteotomy.
Here is the general run-down of a knee osteotomy:
The surgeon, after you are under Anesthesia, will make an incision right below the kneecap.
The bone that needs to be cut is marked with wires and then a saw is used to cut the guided area.
To hold the bone in place while the incision heals, the surgeon will place plates with screws on either cut side of the bone.

Healing And Post-Surgery Care

Now that the surgery is complete, your incision will heal timely and you are free to go home within 1 to 2 days after the surgery. The doctors might prescribe you painkillers and NSAIDs to help with the pain. Here are some things you need to take care of after the osteotomy is done:

Make sure the incision doesn’t get infected. Try to keep it dry and cover it when you’re taking a shower.
In order to limit the weight and stress on the newly adjusted bone, you will probably need to use crutches for walking for some weeks, before the doctor gives you a clear sign to start walking freely.
You will need to follow up with your doctor and have an x-ray after the surgery, just to see the progress and how your knee is doing physically.

Conclusion

There you have it! A knee osteotomy will help to get rid of the extra pressure and pain in your knee. And you will feel much better as far as pains and movements are concerned. Make sure to discuss your condition for with an orthopedic doctor for knee pain Woodbridge before going through a surgery.