Blackfridaychoices.com | Shop And Save Big!

Home - Home and needs

8 common home lighting mistakes to avoid

8 common home lighting mistakes to avoid

Lighting fixtures and accessories can make or break the look and ambiance of your home. Install too many lights or fall short of the lighting necessary, and you end up with a space that is either too bright or plain dull. Many factors come into play while adjusting the lighting and ambiance of a room. Most importantly, you need to avoid making these common mistakes while comparing products to find suitable home lighting options. Choosing the wrong size The ambiance of a room is influenced by the type and size of lighting fixtures that are installed. For larger spaces, including the common area, kitchen, and living room, it’s better to install large-size bright lights. This is where hanging pendant lights and even chandeliers work best to disburse the luminance evenly. However, if you are installing light fixtures for a small room or illuminating the corners, go for smaller bulbs or LEDs that provide a spotlight. You must ensure the light fixtures don’t overwhelm the senses or even fall short of the brightness necessary, making it difficult to see properly. Only when you compare a few lighting options is it possible to find the best source of illumination. Installing the wrong type of lights Note that there are three different aspects of lighting that work together to illuminate a space.

7 reasons why homeowners should invest in solar power generators

7 reasons why homeowners should invest in solar power generators

Solar power has become increasingly accessible and popular in the last few years. This is because most homeowners want reliable emergency backup power, especially in areas more susceptible to natural disaster-related blackouts. Moreover, solar energy is clean and can be collected and stored using solar panels and generators, and later, one can use it to power electrical devices. Keep reading to learn about the reasons to have solar power generators at home and its advantages. What are solar power generators, and how are they different? Typically, gas-powered generators utilize an internal combustion engine which provides the mechanical power needed to create a current of electricity. But in the case of solar power generators, the solar battery stores energy sourced from the sun with the help of solar panels. The energy generated can be used to easily provide emergency power backup for the whole house whenever necessary. Note that one must have an inverter to convert the energy, i.e., direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC). Top reasons to have solar power generators at home Reliability While fuel-powered generators have proven useful for years, one cannot deny their part in damaging the environment. But as mentioned previously, solar power generators source their energy from the sun.

8 basement renovation mistakes to avoid

8 basement renovation mistakes to avoid

Basements can be heavily underutilized, especially when used to store all the extra stuff in the house. Sometimes, the basement is also a makeshift laundry room, gym, playroom, or all rolled into one. However, if planned well, it can become a valuable living space. The right upgrades in this space can also enhance the resale value of the house. So, if one is planning to renovate the basement, they should avoid the following mistakes: 1. Not obtaining the right permits It is mandatory to get a permit for basement renovation. Not getting a permit is not only illegal but can also prove to be dangerous. This is because the permit ensures that the renovation job is done according to the safety laws and code of the city. One can get a permit by calling the local municipality office and informing them about the type of work one is planning to undertake in the basement. Then, board inspectors will visit and periodically monitor the work to ensure all rules and regulations are followed. 2. Skipping inspection As a basement is right underneath a house, it is prone to structural issues that can develop over the long run. Further, for one moving into the existing house, a professional inspection can help them detect all issues, from water seepage to pest infestation, that can cause potential damage.

8 ways to deal with a flooded basement

8 ways to deal with a flooded basement

The cause of a flooded basement may be varied, from seepage problems to foundation issues, but cleaning it up afterward is a borderline nightmare. In the worst cases, one may lose cherished items like books, frames, or even furniture and flooring. Cleaning up a flooded basement requires safety, patience, hard work, and sometimes professional help. Here are some immediate steps one can take to deal with the dread. Knowing these steps beforehand can help save one’s property and reduce stress. Ensure safety The first thing to do in case of a flooded basement is to ensure one’s safety. The water collected in the basement often disturbs electric wiring, which can be fatal if tampered with bare hands. Turn off any electrical supplies, appliances, as well as gas supply. Find the source of leak Try to find the source of the leak and close it off to avoid further damage. Some common types of leaked sources include running tap water, overflowing bathtubs, blocked toilets, and broken water heaters. In case of natural causes like heavy rain, one might have to wait until it has passed to get down to the cleanup. Dry out the place Leaving a flooded basement even for a day can lead to the formation of mold on dampened fabric, which can cause irreparable damage to the furniture and give out a musty smell.

7 tips for choosing the best pest control service

7 tips for choosing the best pest control service

There are numerous pest control services available nowadays. Homeowners looking for a service provider are likely to come across at least a couple options that offer the same service. However, choosing a pest control service that suits their needs is a difficult task. It is important to consider certain attributes of any given service before investing money in it. Here are some valuable tips for finding and selecting the best pest control services: Checking documentation Proper documentation separates the genuine service providers from the novices and fraudulent ones. Initially, when customers ask service providers to show their documentation, they will take time to provide them with the paperwork. Nevertheless, it is worth waiting before putting one’s hard-earned money on a service provider. Service providers that delay showcasing their documentation even after repeated reminders need to be avoided. There are mainly two kinds of documentation one should look for when hiring a pest control service provider. Firstly, the registration information is necessary to check whether a company is registered with the homeowner’s state’s Pest Control Regulatory Agency. This helps ensure that the service provider is legitimate and operates within the law. Secondly, it is vital to check for a document that confirms the presence of a licensed and certified applicator on staff.

8 things to consider before choosing a water purifier

8 things to consider before choosing a water purifier

Most residents have access to clean and safe drinking tap water. The water supply chains receive regular checks and maintenance so people do not have to face inconvenience. However, since it is a huge supply body, it is difficult to control the contaminants with which the water comes in contact. Sometimes, even some minor corrosion can have a huge impact on people’s health. It is, therefore, essential to have an effective water purifier at home. Water quality The first step to selecting the right water filter for your home is to identify its need. Individuals can test their water quality with available water testing kits or contact the local facilities or water supply offices for water quality analysis. This step will help them identify the contaminants present in the water. Generally, heavy metals like arsenic, lead, chloride, pesticides, microbes like bacteria, viruses, and other parasites are the contaminants found in water. One might not necessarily find all of these contaminants and impurities. However, understanding the pollutants will help them determine the right kind of purifier required for home water purification. Remember to choose the right purification system based on the contaminants rather than high-performing technology ratings. Purification technology The next step is to research the different water purification technologies and their effectiveness.

12 handyman services people need to know about

12 handyman services people need to know about

Maintaining a house can be tiring. Luckily, no one needs to do it alone! Plenty of handyman services are available on hire to help people take care of their homes professionally. A handyman is an experienced person with lots of knowledge and skills to tackle home improvement tasks. They charge a fee depending on the kind of work undertaken. Below are the 12 most common services for which people contact a handyman. Stopping plumbing leaks Leaking fixtures can quickly rack up water bills and raise the risk of mold or mildew growth, leading to health issues. Thus, it is crucial to fix them promptly. One may spot leaks under the sink, showers, toilets, washing machines, or even refrigerators. However, finding the main cause or source of the leak can be difficult. For small fixes, one can quickly call up their local handyman service instead of waiting for a plumber. Keeping the exteriors in check Many tiny fixtures outside the house must also be maintained frequently to ensure they work well. These include the siding, roofing shingles, gutters, light fixtures, doors, etc. Since people rarely come in contact with these things, their upkeep is overlooked. Hiring a handyman to check the fixtures outside the house twice a year can help keep them in good shape.

16 mistakes to avoid while using a vacuum cleaner

16 mistakes to avoid while using a vacuum cleaner

Vacuum cleaners are indispensable tools for maintaining a healthy living environment. They have revolutionized household cleaning. However, improper usage can lead to suboptimal performance and potential damage to the machine. Certain mistakes compromise the quality of cleaning, time invested, and the results a machine can deliver. By avoiding these errors, users can maximize their vacuum’s cleaning power, extend its lifespan, and ensure a consistently cleaner home without having to grab the cleaning equipment every couple of days. Neglecting routine maintenance Proper maintenance is key to extending the life of a vacuum cleaner. This includes regular cleaning of filters, brush rolls, and hoses. Filters play a crucial role in trapping dust and allergens. However, they can become clogged when ignored, diminishing the vacuum’s suction power. Depending on the model being used, filters should be cleaned or replaced at recommended intervals. Additionally, belts should also be inspected for signs of wear and replaced if necessary. Routine maintenance ensures that all components are in working order, allowing the vacuum to perform at its best. Ignoring height adjustments Height adjustments are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Failing to adjust the vacuum’s height setting for different flooring types can lead to inefficient cleaning and potential damage. For instance, low settings are suitable for carpets, while higher settings work best for hardwood or tile.

23 esthetically pleasing walk-in shower ideas

23 esthetically pleasing walk-in shower ideas

A walk-in shower makes for a stylish and functional addition to any bathroom. It is contemporary and aesthetically pleasing. Beyond mere utility, it presents an opportunity to elevate a bathing routine to a spa-worthy indulgence. There is a list of selected walk-in shower remodel ideas, each crafted to harmonize practicality, comfort, and visual allure. These ideas encapsulate diverse styles and features, ensuring there’s something for every discerning homeowner. Here are a few walk-in shower design ideas for the next bathroom remodel project: 1. Curbless entry with pebble flooring A curbless shower with pebble flooring looks stunning and provides a spa-like experience. The natural texture of the pebbles offers a foot massage while enhancing traction. This design particularly benefits those seeking a seamless and accessible showering experience. 2. Tiled bench alcove For an elegant touch, consider a built-in tiled bench alcove. This provides a comfortable, relaxing spot and a convenient place for toiletries. Selecting tiles with a non-slip surface ensures safety and adds to their aesthetic appeal. 3. Skylight or clerestory window Nothing screams luxury like a built-in skylight that allows natural light to flood the shower area. This creates an airy, open feel while maintaining privacy. The choice of frosted or textured glass can further enhance privacy without sacrificing the influx of daylight.

14 common mistakes to avoid when moving

14 common mistakes to avoid when moving

Moving is an exciting time with the anticipation of a new home and a fresh start. However, the sheer proportion of the task may feel overwhelming. Moving to a new place is not easy; it requires time, money, effort, and proper planning. Without planning, the whole experience may not be a pleasant one. This article enlists 14 common mistakes people must avoid when moving to reduce hiccups and streamline the process. Forgetting to declutter ahead of time When it comes to organization, decluttering is essential. Not only does it help eliminate things that are no longer needed, it also creates space for new items. This may be especially fruitful when moving to a smaller home or one that is configured differently. Instead of waiting to declutter post-moving, begin the process a month before the planned moving date. Afterward, one can host a garage sale, donate things, or give them to loved ones. Not having enough packing materials Estimating the number of boxes and cartons needed to pack everything away can be challenging. To avoid the problem of having too many boxes or purchasing expensive supplies from companies, one must start collecting delivery boxes a few months in advance. These can help simplify the packing process and reduce overhead costs as well.

Latest Articles

A Look at the 5 Models of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold Series

A Look at the 5 Models of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold Series

Around five years ago, Samsung launched its first foldable smartphone, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold. Over time, the Fold Series has expanded to include four more devices, the latest being the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5, launched earlier this year. These foldable phones have pushed the boundaries of technology and design and are considered the future of smartphones. Here’s a quick look at the different Samsung Galaxy Z Fold Series models. 1. Galaxy Z Fold Launched in 2019, Samsung’s first foldable phone was the tablet-sized Galaxy Fold. This device did not have an ideal beginning, as the initial batch sent to reviewers malfunctioned within days of use. Consequently, the brand recalled them, delaying the product’s official launch. In September that year, the Galaxy Z Fold was finally launched for $1,980. The 7.3-inch inner AMOLED display of the Galaxy Fold can be folded in a book style. It features a 4.6-inch secondary display, Qualcomm’s flagship Snapdragon 855 processor, three rear cameras (12 MP wide-angle, 12 MP telephoto, and 16 MP ultra-wide), and two front cameras (10 MP selfie and 8 MP depth). The Galaxy Z Fold has 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage. 2. Galaxy Z Fold2 In September 2020, Samsung upgraded the series with the Galaxy Z Fold2, which was more robust and had a refined design. The device has a larger 7.6-inch foldable screen, a bezel-less 6.2-inch cover panel, a higher refresh rate of 120 Hz, a new Snapdragon 865 processor, a 4400 mAh battery, and improved cameras compared to the original Fold. Flex Mode is a talking point of the Fold2, which provides better functionality and serves as a tripod for hands-free selfies or video calls. Samsung also adopted a UWB chip for the first time in this foldable smartphone. 3. Galaxy Z Fold3 The Galaxy Z Fold3 was unveiled in August 2021 as the third generation of Samsung’s folding phones.

6 exciting offers on the iPhone 14 Pro series

6 exciting offers on the iPhone 14 Pro series

The iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max are Apple’s most technologically advanced Pro lineup. These phones have been launched with exciting new features like Dynamic Island and an Always-On display, which create an immersive user experience. They are powered by the A16 Bionic chip, which is the fastest chip available on the market. Additionally, the phones have cutting-edge features that are perfect for managing everyday tasks and creative projects. These Apple models come in different storage options and color variants. The prices of the phones depend on the storage option chosen. Let’s explore the various offers provided by different service providers. Pricing and availability The iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max are available in different storage options. The starting price for the iPhone 14 Pro is $999, which includes 128GB of storage. The starting price for the iPhone 14 Pro Max is $1,099, also with 128GB of storage. The price increases as one chooses higher storage options. One can purchase these models from the online Apple Store, offline stores, and third-party sellers. Deals on the iPhone 14 Pro 1. AT&T Limitless Plan AT&T is also providing the best trade-in savings of up to $1,000, which matches the carrier’s best deal to date. Even though this specific deal doesn’t include any bonuses or extras, customers will find one of the greatest offers at AT&T. The trade-in rebate for the basic iPhone 14 is set at a maximum save of $700, so if AT&T is the preferred carrier, we strongly advise getting the Pro model. 2. Walmart (with $100 off carrier devices) Walmart is providing a great deal on carrier smartphones. A $100 price reduction for monthly payments over 36 months is accessible for AT&T and Verizon users. This could be an attractive option for those who don’t want to trade in a previous model for a lower price at one of the leading carriers. 3.

Top 8 Features of the iPhone 15

Top 8 Features of the iPhone 15

Apple has unveiled the iPhone 15 and its equally terrific counterparts – the iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and the iPhone 15 Pro Max. By now, users must have played around with several new features, especially those on iOS 17, such as the Standby Mode or NameDrop. But other exciting features and specifications added this year need a mention. Here are some specifications to get the most out of the iPhone 15’s brilliance. Performance The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus are powered by the same A16 Bionic processor found in the iPhone 14 Pro series. One can witness a similar level of performance as last year’s high-end phones. On the other hand, the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max come with Apple’s latest A17 Pro processor. According to Apple, this new processor is “10 percent faster” in terms of CPU and “20 percent faster” in terms of GPU (graphics) compared to the A16 Bionic processor. Apple has emphasized the smoother graphics and gaming performance of the iPhone 15 Pro models, thanks to the A17 Pro processor’s hardware-accelerated ray tracing. This technology allows for impressive lighting effects in games. Design All iPhone 15 models have received the latest design that features softer contoured edges compared to the sharper one on the iPhone 14. There is a titanium frame with brushed metal that looks shiny and polished on the Pro and Pro Max variants. Moreover, these models also feature thinner bezels, giving a premium look. Colors The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus come in five color options, including blue, pink, yellow, green, and black. Another key feature to look out for is Apple’s new color-infused back glass with a frosted matte texture. Camera Apple has significantly upgraded the cameras on its latest iPhone 15 lineup. The primary cameras on the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus have been increased from 12 megapixels (MP) to 48MP.