Matte….Semi Gloss…Flat…what does it all mean? If you’ve ever gone down the paint aisle in Home Depot, it can feel just overwhelming and confusing. Read on to learn the difference between each paint type to determine what kind you’ll need for your project.
Read moreHappy National Houseplant Appreciation Day!
Yes it is a real thing! This day was created to not only spread awareness of the benefits of houseplants in the home but as well as something to combat the post holiday blues. Most of us have put our holiday decorations away and if it’s winter time where you are reading this, there is a lack of plants and colors outside and things have lost that cozy holiday feeling. So why not bring the outside indoors with plants?
So what are the benefits of houseplants? Houseplants improve the air quality of your home. They convert carbon dioxide into oxygen for us humans and animals to breathe. They also release moisture into the air that not only adds humidity to the air (which hopefully will prevent you getting shocked on things in the dry winter air) but the added moisture can also make your home feel cooler (which is always good to lower the A/C bill in the summer). Houseplants, depending on the kind you get, are relatively easy to care for. All they mainly require is water, sunlight and maybe some nutrients here and there.
If you are a pet owner, you do need to be mindful of plants that are toxic to dogs and cats as well as humans. The ASPCA has created a very detailed list of all of the plants that are poisonous to dogs and cats that are linked at the end of this blog post but I’ll still list a few that are safe and others to avoid.
Of course though, use your best judgement based on the temperament and tendencies of your pet to determine if the plant and your pet could co exist peacefully in your home. If there is even the slightest doubt that they wouldn’t get along, it’s best to choose another plant.
Some plants that are toxic:
Fiddle Leaf Fig: Toxic to dogs if ingested and can cause skin and gastrointestinal irritation.
Philodendron: Toxic to dogs and cats if ingested and can cause oral irritation, swelling, vomiting, trouble breathing and excessive drooling.
ZZ Plant: Toxic to dogs and cats if ingested and can cause vomiting and diarrhea
Aloe Vera: toxic to dogs if ingested and can cause lethargy, vomiting and gastrointestinal issues.
Birds of Paradise: toxic to dogs if ingested (especially the flower part being it is the most toxic) and can cause gastrointestinal irritation (nausea/vomiting) and drowsiness. If vet care is sought in time, a full recovery can be made.
Dumb Cane: toxic to dogs and cats if ingested and can cause oral irritation and swelling, excessive drooling, vomiting and difficulty breathing.
Sago Palm: EXTREMELY TOXIC to humans, dogs and cats if ingested and can cause liver failure and death. Early poisoning signs include vomiting, diarrhea and seizures.
Peace Lily: toxic to dogs and cats-especially the “mauna loa” variety and can cause irritation around contacted area and can induce vomiting in cats and dogs if ingested.
Alocasia: toxic to dogs, cats and humans if ingested and can cause oral irritation, burning of lips and mouth, swelling, vomiting, difficulty breathing and swallowing.
Some plants that are safe:
Areca Palm
African Violet
Cape Marigold
Boston Fern
Cast Iron Plant
Spider Plant
Orchid
Bromeliad
Polka Dot Plant
This is an excellent source from the ASPCA showing pictures of each plant that is toxic or safe for cats and dogs as well as a printer friendly version.
Hardwood Floors
Are you thinking about adding hardwood floors into your home but not sure if it’s the right type? Read on to see some of the advantages and disadvantages to help you decide.
Read moreWhy Hire A Professional Painter?
The areas to paint have been decided, the colors have been picked out and bought and you have your painting supplies all ready to go. You’ve never painted a room before but think you can do it. So why should you consider hiring a professional instead of being a weekend warrior and doing it yourself? Well there’s many reasons:
Reason 1: Simply they’re professionals. Professional painters have the expertise and tech know how of what is required for your painting project. They have all of the equipment needed as well as the man power to put everything together for you to give you what you need.
Reason 2: Time-Efficiency. Painting is time consuming-especially if your project requires painting multiple rooms. Hiring professionals saves time compared to doing it on your own. Between work commitments and family/life commitments, it can be hard to find time to paint on your own. Professionals also know how to protect your belongings such as your furniture as well as your floors so there is no damage.
Reason 3: Cost Friendly. Doing the painting project yourself sounds like a good idea but if it’s your first time tackling something like this or if you’ve done it a few times, the project can get expensive quickly. Professionals can give an estimated quote on the project that not only competes with a DIY project but also makes sure it beats the competition. It all depends on your negotiating and which company you decide to hire.
Reason 4: Stress Factor. Painting rooms isn’t like painting a pretty picture on some canvas. It can be stressful considering everything involved: the type of paint needed and how much, the preparation work, applying primer (if needed), caulking (if needed) and then there’s the actual painting process. Professionals know how to minimize costs, damage and overall length of time. Hiring a professional also means they provide everything: paint colors, equipment, and clean up services. You don’t have to worry about going to multiple stores for supplies or more paint. Professionals understand your painting needs and give you peace of mind while they effortlessly handle all of the work for you.