You know that looking after your home is one of the cornerstones of a healthy and happy environment, but you also know that staying on top of everything can be a challenge, and that could be putting it lightly. It’s too easy to let things get away from you at home, and eventually, even the smallest chores feel insurmountable. So what can you do? Here is some advice to help you stay on top of everything at home. 

Start Tracking Your Time 

Time tracking is an effective way to stay on top of everything. Just like it can benefit you at work to help you maintain your productivity, it’s also ideal for your housework. 

When you track your time, you can see how much you get done in a specific chunk of the hour, which can give you a better idea of how long the entire process takes. By time-tracking everyday chores, you might find they are not as laborious as you think, which can change your attitude and approach towards them and make you more productive around the house. 

Tackle Tricky Chores First

There are many chores you don’t want to do, but you need to complete them if you want to keep the household in perfect order. Thinking of your most hated household chores and tackling them before anything else is an excellent way to get them out of the way. Often, the hardest part is starting them, so you will feel more like tackling everything else once you’ve done this and you might even feel motivated to carry on.

Make Lists 

Lists are another way to help you stay on top of everything and ensure you don’t forget essentials, such as defrosting tonight’s dinner or clearing out the organic garbage. Use your lists to segment different chores for different days so you always have something to do. You can also use supplements like Fladrafinil solution to improve your memory and avoid any forgetfulness that might cause you to fall behind on your chores or other errands. 

Multitask Whenever You Can

Multitasking can risk distractions, but you can also use it more effectively. Taking productive breaks is essential for managing time and preventing burnout during chores. Besides, you need to sit down and eat eventually. So, instead of doing everything without a break, try taking ten minutes to relax while doing something else. Put the laundry on or fold clothes fresh out of the dryer to feel you’re doing something without running around. 

Reset Before Bed 

Every household should make sure the home is reset before they go to bed. This means it should look as it did when you woke up. Resetting before you go to bed means you don’t wake up to a sink full of dishes or bits of food all over the counter. You can also put everything you need out for tomorrow, such as your coffee mugs and anything you need for work or what your kids need for school. 

On Top 

While it can feel like you’ll never finish the housework, these tips should give you the foundation to change your approach. Even better, you shouldn't have to do it all alone, so don’t be afraid to rope your partner and kids into doing their share of the chores.

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Your home is your sanctuary, and being able to relax and feel comfortable once you arrive home should be a top priority for everyone. Sadly, not everyone lives in a perfect house or a home that can offer them a safe space to regroup.

Home maintenance can be expensive. However, it is necessary occasionally to maintain your standards and support a healthy living experience. If you neglect your home, it is likely impacting your physical and mental health. But updates to your home don't need to be overly expensive; you can carry out repairs and updates for a lot less than you think to help you improve your living environment.

The following updates can help you to get the joy back from living in your home and make it work for you.

Declutter

One of the easiest and free ways to update your home is to take stock of everything you own and decide if you want to keep it or even need it. Decluttering your home can give you a quick way to free up space and give the room a makeover. That being said, it can be overwhelming, and to get the best results from decluttering, you need to be careful and methodical.

• Go room by room and break it down into smaller sections if needed.

• Make piles of items you want to keep, ones you can donate or sell, and a pile of things for the trash if they're no longer helpful.

• Remove any unwanted items immediately to free up the space, i.e., hold a garage sale as quickly as possible, donate to Goodwill, or dispose of them in the trash to avoid lingering around your home for longer.

Rearrange Rooms

This doesn't mean it picks up random things and places them elsewhere. Look at how your furniture is arranged in each room or the areas you dislike. You can reconfigure the space from here to make it look and feel different. If you don't know what will work or if things will fit, start moving them to see what happens. Making it visual and placing items in different places can spark creativity and help you discover what you can do with the room and what it is capable of, or hope you enjoy the space more.

Paint

If you're on a tight budget, a fresh coat of paint can be an inexpensive way to freshen up your home. Even if you whitewash the whole house, ready to start again at a later date. It can give you a blank canvas to remove what you don't like in the short term and figure out exactly what you want to achieve in the room.

Alternatively, you can freshen up plain, dull spaces with a colored feature wall; you can add an art design, geometric pattern, or creative piece of art in paint on a bedroom wall for a wow factor; you can experiment with paint and color to help you bring your room to life and ensure you liven it up in a way that boosts your mental health and allows to reclaim the love you might have lost for your home.

Repairs

If you're living in a home that needs minor or even major repairs, chances are you won't be able to use your home correctly as you adjust for these issues. Be it that broken light fitting in the hallway, a hole in the wall in the living room, or even the faulty plumbing in the bathroom. Regardless of the tissue, take care of it now. Even ticking one small job off your to-do list can help improve your living standards, taking some of the mental load off your mind. Suppose you've been putting a job off or cannot do it yourself. In that case, you can call in a handyman or contractor who can take care of one or all of your repair needs, from smarthome services for hooking your devices up to the internet to fixing that leaky faucet or getting those creaky floorboards sorted for once and for all, whatever it is make it a priority to tackle it.

Update Lighting

The amount of lighting in your home can impact your enjoyment and how you view the house. Whether you flood it with natural or artificial lighting, it's up to you, but increasing the lighting in your home and making it feel brighter can instantly give it a facelift and help you add a different element to the ambiance at home.

From moving large furniture away from natural light sources to changing out your fixed ceiling lighting options to newer, more modern choices or adding in floor lamps and mirrors to boost lighting in darker rooms, you have many options you can choose from to help you make your home lighter and brighter.

You don't need to spend copious amounts of money to get your home looking and feeling good. Sometimes, it starts with addressing the amount of stuff you own and feeding up space. A good rearranging can freshen up a room, as can a lick of paint and new lighting. Get creative and see what your home is capable of.

In fact, depending on the severity of the damage, you might be worried that your home is in further danger, still. As such, it’s important to get a move on and to start fixing your home up as soon as you can after that storm. Here, we’re going to look at a few steps you should start taking right now.

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Make sure your insurance kicks in

Before you do anything, make sure that you see what your insurance company is able to do. If you have already invested in storm insurance, then you might be able to get many of the costs of your repairs covered. Some homeowners insurance may already cover it, but it’s important to check your policy can call your insurance company up. Before doing that, however, it’s a good idea to take photos of any notable damage as soon as you can and to keep a record so that they don’t miss anything they have to pay out for. Find your policy documents and keep them on hand so you know what help you can get.

Check for water damage and mold ASAP

Although storms can cause much more visible noticeable and dramatic damage, some of the most serious is that which can spread through the materials in your home, destroying them from the inside. That’s the case with water damage caused by leaks, and the mold that can follow. Close up the source of any water damage as soon as possible, and get in touch with Mold Removal and Damage Restoration services to halt the advance through your home. The longer you let mold spread, the more that you will have to throw out and have to repair.

Look around the property

If there’s no clear internal damage, then it’s time to start looking outside, as well. You might find that there is damage to existing fences and walls, and you will want to establish responsibility as to who should cover the costs, especially if you share those fences and walls with any neighbors. Similarly, fallen trees are another common concern after a storm. In many cases, even if it’s a neighbor's tree that falls in your yard, you might be responsible for paying to repair any damage caused by it.

Take a look at the roof

After looking around the garden and the perimeter, the next thing you want to check is the roof. After all, the roof plays a major role in keeping the home safe. Just as existing damage can lead to the spread of water damage and mold, having a roof that isn’t fully secure and complete invites further spreading of mold and dampness every time it rains. Hire a roofing specialist to climb up and take a look, and see if there are any missing or damaged shingles that need to be replaced, or any other damage to consider.

Dealing with power outages

Storms can not only do physical damage to the home, but they can also affect your quality of life by reducing or removing your ability to power the home. There isn’t too much that you can do about this in the immediate aftermath, but in the future, you might want to consider having an emergency generator set up to kick in if your mains go out, so that you’re not left in the dark.

Prepare for next time

If you have storm damage, then you should now be fully aware of the kind of problems it can cause and the costs that it can raise. As such, you should start being more aware of the ways that you can prepare for storms. Clean your garden of clutter and keep your trees trimmed. Check your roof before storm season and, if they’re particularly strong, think about switching out to a metal roof. Ensure that you have the means to protect your home from the worst of the damage next year.

Storms can leave lasting damage, and you want to make sure that you stop the repair costs from rising as much as they potentially can. With the tips above, you can secure the home, halt the progress of damage, and make sure that your property is still safe to live in.

Step Confidently With Stunning Flooring

Undeniably, your first step into creating an inviting outdoor space begins with choosing the right flooring. Envision your feet gently treading upon a surface that combines both comfort and aesthetic appeal. Opt for a flooring material that not only supports with the overall theme of your home but also promises durability amidst varied weather conditions. Consider wooden deck tiles for a cozy, rustic vibe or go for sleek, smooth stone pavers for a touch of elegance. Another option is to buy terracotta floor tile options that will stand the test of time. Don’t shy away from integrating outdoor rugs that pop with color and pattern, providing both a visual treat and a comfortable step!

Furnish With Comfort And Character In Mind

When it comes to furniture, imagine pieces that nestle your guests in comfort while simultaneously sparking joy through their design. Invest in seating that prioritizes relaxation - think cushioned chairs, swinging benches, and maybe even a snug hammock. An outdoor table is not just a table but a focal point where connections blossom over shared meals and laughter. So, choose materials and fabrics that withstand the elements while cuddling every visitor in comfort. And don’t forget to personalize! Throw in some playful cushions, and whimsy throws, and ensure every piece echoes the welcoming spirit of your home. One important thing to remember, buying quality is a wise choice. Choose sturdy options that will serve its purpose in the long run. 

Decorate To Communicate Your Unique Story

Ah, decoration! Here’s where your porch gets to show your personality and tell your distinctive story. Imagine walls decorated with cheerful wall art or perhaps a mural that becomes a conversation starter. Introduce planters with blooms that enhance the visual appeal and prick the senses with their vibrance. Choose colors and items that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, crafting a harmonious sanctuary that offers both tranquility and stimulation. Your decorative elements should share stories of your journeys, interests, and aesthetic to every observant eye.

Illuminate With A Soft, Enchanting Glow

The lighting of your porch should do more than just reduce the darkness; it should craft an ambiance that people find pleasant and inviting. Imagine strings of fairy lights gently swaying in the night, casting a soft, dreamlike glow across faces. Consider lanterns that flicker with warmth, or strategically placed spotlights that accentuate key features of your space. Ensure your lighting not only enhances visibility but also softly serenades your space with a gentle, inviting feel.

Entertain Through Engaging, Effortless Fun

No get-together space is complete without a dash of entertainment that can make every moment sing! Think of a small, but quality outdoor speaker system that can serenade your gatherings with melodies that range from the tranquil to the vibrant. Consider incorporating fun, easy-to-engage outdoor games like cornhole or giant Jenga, ensuring laughs and playful competition are always on the menu. When every element of your porch extends an enticing call to relax, chat, play, and stay, you’ll know your space is truly entertainment-ready.

Make Your Porch Good For All Weather

Let’s keep it simple and straight - your porch should be a cozy spot, no matter what the weather is doing! Imagine being able to chill out there, whether it’s super sunny, raining a bit, or even when there’s a chill in the air. A little shade from a cool, roll-out awning or a sturdy overhead pergola can give you a break from the sun or keep a light rain from ruining the fun. Think about adding a fan for hot days and a safe heater or a cozy fire pit for when it gets cold. This way, no matter what’s happening weather-wise, you and your friends can still hang out and have a good time on your porch all year round!

Creating the ideal outdoor space is more than arranging elements; it’s about crafting a space that warmly envelops family and friends in an atmosphere of genuine care and joy. Your porch, with its embracing arms, has the potential to be a sanctuary where connections deepen, laughter amplifies, and memories are meticulously crafted. So, take on the challenge with a spirit that is eager to experiment, personalize, and, most importantly, create a space where every moment is celebrated.

Continue reading to understand how to maintain the warm and cozy feeling of your home throughout the winter without spending a lot of money.

Make use of your fireplace

If you moved into your home and an original fireplace was there, what a bonus! You should make use of it as this is a cheaper and cozier way to warm your home during the winter. 

It will help if you make a fireplace surround as it will make the feature align with your current interior without you needing to cover it up.

You can read how to build your own fireplace surround so you can fall in love with the original feature of your home and avoid removing it. Keeping original features will help you maintain the uniqueness of your home. Plus, you can then make use of a more affordable and sustainable way of heating your home.

Be sure the central heating is working efficiently

If you do not have a fireplace and need to rely on the central heating system to heat your home, you must ensure it is working efficiently.

The likelihood is that your heating will not work properly if your AC is broken. Therefore, be sure to get these features assessed and repaired before the winter as they will be cheaper to run.

If you try to run your heating while it isn’t as efficient as it should be, it will cost you more money to heat your home during the winter. 

Put clingfilm on your windows

Another cheap way to heat your home this winter and keep the warmth in is by putting clingfilm on your windows. 

This will prevent any draught from entering your home and help to keep the warmth in from the fire or heating. 

Add more soft furnishings

Soft furnishings will not only make you feel cozier when you spend time at home as you can cozy up under blankets and cushions, but they will also help your home stay warm during the winter.

Blankets, curtains, cushions, and rugs will hold the heat whenever you put the heating or fire on. Then, your home will stay warmer and you can stay cozier.

Add a draught stopper to your door

Your doors can allow draughts through when it's cold outside. If this happens, your home will become very cold, even if you have the heating on. 

The best thing you can do is add a draught stopper to the bottom of your doors as this will help to keep the warmth in. This is more affordable than replacing the doors to make them longer and can have more effect on keeping the heat in. 

Use as many of these tips as possible to maximize the warmth and coziness of your home throughout the winter without spending a fortune.

Freelancing

Freelancing is one of the best ways for you to earn some extra money. You can go into graphic design, writing and even editing if you want. Graphic designers are also very high in demand, while other fields offer a lot of freelance writing opportunities too. Skilled video editors, interior decorators and even estate agents can also work as freelancers by using their skills. If you are feeling creative then one thing you can do is look into making your own products on Etsy. For example, you can buy quilting machines online with ease, and this is a great way for you to get the results you’re looking for regarding your venture.

Just as we humans require maintenance and care as we age, our homes also need attention and repairs to stand the test of time. Over the years, certain components of a house naturally wear down and require replacement or repair. While yes, it’s totally true that if a house is taken good enough care of, it can last hundreds of years. But just like the human body, if it’s not taken well care of, it can go downhill real quick. 

When it comes to fixing up a house, it’s far more than just curb appeal; it’s actually about the structural integrity of the house. There are a lot of components that need to be kept in mind when it comes to homes, and in fact, there are some things that need to be repaired every few years. So, here are some common age-related repairs that every homeowner needs to be aware of. 

Roof Replacement and Repair

The roof is one of the most critical components of a home's structure. Over time, exposure to weather conditions, temperature fluctuations, and wear and tear can lead to roof damage. Can you imagine every day, rain or shine, that your roof is constantly being hit with elements? So, it’s incredibly important to have regular inspections and timely repairs or replacements from a professional roofing company. 

Typically, it’s every 15 to 20 years that there will need to be repairs since these are essential to prevent leaks, water damage, and structural issues. So this is probably the biggest one that homeowners tend not to know about, so be sure to look into this because, for all you know, your home’s roof repair is already way overdue. 

Insulation and Attic Upkeep

This can technically tie to the roof since one roof damage happens; it instantly affects the attic and the insulation of your home. But it’s not only damage caused by the roof; in general, insulation goes bad over time. This basically means that it leads to increased energy consumption and temperature fluctuations in your home. So, it’s going to be best for you to periodically check and replace insulation as needed and ensure proper attic ventilation to prevent moisture-related issues.

Foundation Repairs

Just like the roof, this is another one that the average homeowner doesn’t know much about. This is another thing that’s strongly focused on your house’s structural integrity, and it’s more prevalent for older houses, too. When it comes to foundations, they may experience cracks, settling, or structural issues as a house ages. 

So this basically means that regular foundation inspections will be needed since these can detect problems early.  It’s really hard to say how often this needs to be checked, but if you live in an old house or even in an area with soft soil, then it might be ideal to look into this. 

HVAC

Eventually, you will need an upgrade for your HVAC; while yes there are plenty of things that homeowners can do to help extend the lifespan, at the end of the day, it’s going to eventually wear out, and upgrades will be needed. Newer, energy-efficient HVAC systems not only improve comfort but also reduce energy bills. So for this, it’s not too much damage to your house as it is more about being energy efficient.  Ideally, upgrades should be about every ten years.