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Dental Dreamlands: Countries with the strongest teeth

For any country, sporting bragging rights are important. When it comes to teeth, we don’t think things are any different. Great dental hygiene is something that all countries can be very grateful for. So, just for you, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten countries with the best teeth.

  • Germany

Typical German industriousness drives their country to number one on our list. Efficiency is a classic German trait and it seems that great dental health is too. As an example to the rest of the world in so many aspects, the Germans clearly got another thing right with their absolutely stellar dental service.

  • Denmark

How do the Scandinavians do it? The Nordic countries always seem to be beacons for progression and they’re no different in our dental Olympics. Finishing in second place, Denmark takes number two for their spotless teeth.

  • Finland

Finishing in a very impressive third place, the Finnish take home bronze with their excellent standards for dental hygiene. We’re sure there’s also a correlation between the happiest place in the world and great teeth. We’ve finally found the reason they’re all smiling so much!

  • Sweden

The Nordic countries can’t seem to get enough of excellent teeth standards! While the Northern Lights are an example of a dazzling light show, Swedish teeth aren’t too far off either. It seems like the Scandinavians are a prime example of dental care to the rest of the globe!

  • The UK

Surprise, surprise! Often condemned by other countries for their ghastly teeth, the UK actually has the fifth highest standard for dental hygiene in the world. If you’re a UK citizen looking for professional dental care without the fuss, we’d suggest trying out Pure Smiles in London for a variety of excellent treatments.

  • Switzerland

As quite a unique country in central Europe, the Swiss like doing things their own way. We’re not remotely surprised that Switzerland has landed in the top 6 of dental hygiene standards. If you’re a European looking for top of the line dental care, the swiss have got you covered.

  • Canada

Joining moose, ice hockey and maple syrup, great teeth are now part of the pantheon of things Canada is famous for. Canadians will probably be happy finishing above their American cousins too. Canada has one of the best healthcare systems in the world, so it’s really no surprise just how well they’ve done in our dental Olympics.

  • USA

When you think of America, the stereotype is of a dazzlingly bright Hollywood smile. You’d think the country would be a bit higher on this list, but the US still boasts an impressive standing. The expense of healthcare in the US often drives people to search for discounted dental care in neighbouring countries such as Canada and Mexico.

  • Mexico

Mexico joins up an impressive run for the North American countries, cementing their place in the list with their fantastic dental standards. Interestingly, many Californians take the short trip across the border to get great dental healthcare and discounted prices.

  • France

Our French cousins just about slip into the top ten of dental hygiene and they’ve got to be very happy with that. The French have supplemented all that fine food with a good understanding of what makes great teeth sparkle.

All of these countries have done brilliantly to get into the top ten worldwide, but it should be noted that there are a few countries with fantastic healthcare that didn’t make the list. From Townsville dentists in Australia to those in Ireland, many of us are lucky to have the peace of mind of a dentist just round the corner. It doesn’t matter what country you live in, looking after your teeth should never be a second thought. Don’t take your dental healthcare for granted.

For most of human history, dental issues have been a serious problem in terms of health. All the way back to the Ancient Egyptians, humans have been attempting to treat teeth in the most effective ways possible. From using sticks as toothbrushes to boiling dog’s teeth in red wine for use as a mouthwash, it’s safe to say that some of it was all a bit bonkers.

Having anxiety about going for the dentist was totally understandable back then, but we think it’s fair to say that times have changed.  With huge advancements globally in dental hygiene, going to the dentist has never been more helpful than it is these days. If you’re feeling nervous, just remember that you should consult with your dentist first. They’ll slowly take you through the procedures and ensure that your experience is as comfortable as possible. Anaesthetic is also a regular feature in dentists around the world, something that was missing only a few decades ago.

Most dentists also have solutions to many other problems that were often overlooked. Missing teeth can now be solved with incredibly advanced implants. Small amounts of down time and incredibly effective results have turned dentistry into an aesthetic treatment as well as a health one. The countries in this list are constantly adapting, evolving and pushing dental technology to consistently push the boundaries of how we deal with our teeth.

Where did your country finish on the list? Did you finish higher or lower than expected? There’s definitely a couple of surprises in the final standings but one thing is for sure – happy health means happy teeth.

 

Who You Gunna Call? Busting the spookiest myths about teeth

Whether you like it or not, your dental routine is here to stay. Every day of your life (hopefully), you brush your teeth twice and floss at least once. It’s one of those things that takes up such a consistent place in our routine that many people have come up with some of their own solutions to make their dental care even more efficient. Unfortunately, most of these are myths that actually result in poor dental hygiene. To fight against these rumours, we’ve taken it upon ourselves to bust some of those myths and keep your dental hygiene on track.

‘Rinsing your mouth out after brushing is better’

The chances are that everyone has been guilty of this one at some point in their lives. However, we’re sorry to say that this one is a definite myth. We understand that it can be nice to get rid of that leftover toothpaste stuck in your mouth, but what you’re actually doing is removing all the fluoride you’ve put on your teeth! Fluoride helps your enamel stay strong and assists in that fight against teeth decay – it therefore plays a vital role. We’d suggest spitting out your toothpaste to make your mouth feel less intense after a brush. If you’ve got into the habit of rinsing since you were a child, it can be very hard to shift. Put post-it notes on your mirror or in your bathroom to keep reminding yourself not to rinse.

‘I don’t have any pain so my teeth are great’

This one really is a clanger. It’s very important to note that just because you’re not experiencing any problems with your teeth now doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be checking in with your dentist on the regular. Gum and teeth problems tend to start off painless and start hurting after it’s too late to stop the issue effectively. If you can build up a rapport with your dentist it makes regular visits much more inviting. We’d suggest checking out London City Smiles if you live in the London area – their service focuses on slow dentistry and they have a fantastic record for relieving dental anxiety. Having that confident and beneficial relationship with your dentist will be vital for maintaining high levels of dental health throughout your life. Make a visit to the dentist a monthly occurrence if you can – getting complacent is the worst way to deal with your oral hygiene.

‘Right after eating is the best time to brush’

Cleaning right after you’ve had your dinner is a big no-no in the eyes of your dentist. If you get the toothpaste out when you’ve just eaten you’re not allowing your saliva to break down your food and perform antibacterial miracles in your mouth. As a result, any bits of food that you’ve missed will have some bad effects on your teeth. Even worse is that all the acid you received from your food will have an immediate effect on your enamel. Brushing after eating starts to scrub away at the surface of your teeth, which only helps the acid. In our opinion, if you can brush an hour after your dinner you’ll be brushing at the optimum time.

‘A more forceful brush makes your teeth stronger’

This myth may seem very obvious, but it’s an easy one to fall into. Brushing rigorously actually has a very negative effect on your teeth. If you’re being too firm, you can actually damage the surface of your teeth and cause some serious harm. Be careful with the type of toothbrush you’re using and make sure you have one suitable for your teeth, especially if you have sensitive gnashers. Ultimately, brushing with too much strength can do much more harm than good for your teeth. Take it easy and use a softer toothbrush if you’re worried about being too firm.

‘Females lose a tooth each time they have a baby’

Yep – there are some people out there who think this irrevocably true. We’re sorry to break it to you, but this one is definitely not true. This odd myth has passed down generations but it’s ultimately an old wives tale – much like carrots helping you see in the dark and your crusts making your hair go curly. Pregnancy can obviously have some profound effects on the body and any that seem unusual should be immediately checked out. Fortunately, teeth are one part of the body that aren’t affected – as long as you’re keeping up an effective brushing routine. If you’re having any trouble with your teeth during pregnancy, go straight to your local dentist.

‘The best place to get my teeth whitened is the salon’

Sorry ladies, but this one is a definite no. Teeth whitening is a distinct form of dentistry with its own special procedures and regulations. If you’re getting your teeth whitened from anywhere but a dentist, you should definitely have second thoughts. Many dental whitening techniques are incredibly long-lasting and offer cheap, affordable options for those considering the teeth whitening cost. Getting your teeth whitened can have a brilliant effect on your smile and improves your self-esteem tenfold. If you’re thinking about getting it done, have a look through some natural and long-lasting procedures from certified dentists. Not only will the whitening last longer than non-dentistry’s, it will be much more safe for your teeth. To top it off, if there isn’t a professional dentist present the whole treatment is illegal anyways.

While some of these myths might be a bit silly, some are very believable and make sense logically. Always check in with your dentist if you’re worried about which way forward is best for your brushing routine. If you’ve got dental anxiety, we understand that it can be tough to push through that barrier. All that we can say is keep trying and build up a rapport with your dentist – you’ll soon realise how beneficial it is to have a good relationship. We can’t stress enough just how important it is to get your dental routine perfect. You’ll see the fantastic results of glimmering teeth in no time.

Best NBA Rebound Records of All Time

In basketball, a rebound is an under-appreciated stat. People do not pay much attention to it. What many people do not realize is that it is a critical aspect of the game. Players shoot and miss. If this happens, the rebound is the single biggest opportunity for either team to take possession of the ball.

Today, let us take a look at the five best rebounders of all time. Although these players are not hailed as scorers are, they were still critical to the success of their teams.

Wilt Chamberlain – 23,924 Rebounds

Wilt is an NBA legend. Apart from the leading rebounder, he is also a record holder for the most points at 31,419. For points, he is ranked 7th for most points in the history of the league.

Wilt played as a centre. He stood at 7 feet 1 inch and weighed 250 pounds. This physicality is what made him a formidable player. As the years went by, he gained weight and even reached 300 pounds by the time he played with the Lakers. Wilt is a Hall of Famer. He was enshrined in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1978, and many sports analysts consider him as one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History.

Bill Russell – 21,620 Rebounds

Bill Russel played as the centre for Boston Celtics from 1956 to 1959. He is a 12-time All-Star player and has won 11 NBA championships in his career. Russell was part of the Boston Celtics dynasty during his era. Bill was a tall guy. He stood at 6 ft 10 in. Despite not being a 7-footer, he used his long arms to his advantage. His wingspan was at 7 ft 4 in or 2.23 meters.

Bill is also known for blocking shots. He was so good at rebounding that he had more than 12 seasons where he had 1,000 rebounds per season. Bill is only one of two players, along with Wilt, to have 50 rebounds in one game.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – 17,440 Rebounds

Another prolific player, Jabbar ranks 3rd in this list. He played for 20 seasons for several teams, including the Milwaukee Bucks. However, Jabbar is best known for his association with the Lakers. Like the previous two, Jabbar was a centre. He holds six records as the MVP and was also an NBA-All Defensive Team member 11 times.

Jabbar is also one of the 50 Greatest NBA Players in the league. He was 7 feet 2 inches and retired at the age of 42 in 1989. Apart from rebounds, Jabbar is the record holder for most points at 38,387. ESPN named Jabbar as the greatest centre of all time back in 2007, and the second-best player next to Michael Jordan.

Elvin Hayes – 16,279 Rebounds

Elvin is not as popular as the other players we have on this list, but he was a major contributor to his teams back in the 70s. Elvin joined the Houston Rockets in 1968. At that time, he went on to become a leader in scoring and averaged 28.4 points per game. From a rebounding perspective, he averaged 17.1 rebounds in his career. In 1968, he scored a career-high of 54 points when they played against the Pistons.

Elvin is known as the Big E. After basketball, he became a radio analyst. As a prolific player, he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

Moses Malone – 16,212 Rebounds

The last on our list is Moses Malone, which you should not confuse with Karl Malone. Moses played for several teams in the NBA, including the Hawks, Spurs, Rockets and 76ers.

What makes Moses a great player is that he was tireless and enigmatic on the court. He was as physically fit as could be back in his prime. Because of his rebounding skills, he was nicknamed “Chairman of the Boards.” Apart from a record holder for rebounds, Malone is ranked number nine for all-time points at 29,580 career points.

Players who are great at rebounding possess a different skill. It is so important that you may even find bets about rebounds on sites like GG.Bet online. They seem to understand the trajectory of the ball. If a shot misses, they seem to know where the ball will go. As such, they know where to position themselves. Even if they are not as great at making points, their efforts are important. Remember that in basketball, the team that possesses the ball is the team at an advantage.

 

What Are The Benefits of Bilutleie Nice?

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Nice is a fantastic city to visit. It’s located on the French Riviera and has everything you need if you’re after a good time: beautiful beaches, incredible restaurants and bars, breathtaking views, and fascinating culture. The following are our top ten reasons to visit.

Party at the Carnival of Nice, which occurs every February and is one of the largest in the world. The very first carnival was organized in 1274, but it was not officially recognized until the nineteenth century. About town, there are various activities, including waiter races, cold water swims, and “flower fights” in which a lot of flowers are flung. It’s encouraged to dress up, and it’s a lot of fun. Follow the link for more helpful tips https://www.wikihow.com/Be-a-Good-Tourist.

Here are a couple of reasons why you should visit Nice:

Try a chickpea pancake from France

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Socca is a popular fast food in the region, prepared in copper pots over high heat. It’s made with chickpea flour, water, and olive oil dumped into a flat pan to create a crispy pancake. It’s a regional delicacy that costs around €3 or €4. If you’d like to sit down, you can try different restaurants around the city, or if you’d like to eat on the go, there are plenty of food joints that offer that as well. After that, try making it yourself. You can find the recipe online.

Take a walk along the entire 7-mile Promenade des Anglais

It is one of France’s most popular routes, stretching from the airport in the west all the way around the Baie des Anges to the castle’s headland in the east. This was the founder of English expatriates in the 19th century who needed a promenade and felt it would be smart to employ all of the city’s beggars after an, especially severe winter. There are several bars and pubs, as well as ice cream stands and beach clubs. Sit in one of the classic blue chairs and simply relax with a good book!

Jazz

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In the 1920s, jazz arrived in Nice, and a slew of American ex-pats who had made the city their home. Like F. Scott Fitzgerald, many people rented large houses and held great parties to forget about the hardships of WWI. There are numerous jazz clubs there, as well as a fantastic jazz festival, or you can explore the Hotel Belles Rives, where the writer wrote all the time. You can also check out the Hotel du Cap that he used as inspiration to write his classic book Tender is the Night. How amazing is that?

You get to walk a mile in the shoes of great authors. WWI ended a long time ago, but it left a mark on every country in Europe. If you are into jazz, then Nice is the city to visit. Therefore, start packing your bags and book a plane ticket right away.

Follow in the Romans’ Footsteps

The city of Cemenelum, which was founded by the Romans, its ruins are now part of the posh Cimiez neighborhood. There was an amphitheater here, as well as thermal baths, which are both commemorated in the Archeology Museum. Take a stroll through the beautiful park and stop for a picnic. Who doesn’t love a good picnic, right?

Admire the period known as ‘La Belle Epoque’

The time period between the First World War in 1914 and the Franco-Prussian War in 1870 gave birth to an era known as ‘La Belle Epoque’ (meaning ‘the beautiful age’) in French history. It was a time when France was going through a lot of cultural and social shifts. It was an extraordinarily positive time, with the belief that anything was probable.

You will encounter large boulevards and magnificent houses that were designed represent this period’s architecture. The Majestic Hotel (the largest), The Grand Hotel (built in 1908), and Queen Victoria’s favorite, the Excelsior Régina Palace, are all worth a visit.

If you love exploring and taking pictures of gorgeous architecture, then you should definitely visit Nice. There are so many things to see and explore, either alone or with someone. Your vacation there will definitely be memorable. One thing you can do is to Leiebil Nice because renting a car enables you to drive anywhere and see all there is to be seen in Nice.

Mesmerizing views

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There are a few spots where you can witness the spectacular city views as well as the surrounding farmland. Head to Castle Hill in town, where you would relax with a picnic after climbing the stairs. If you feel like going for a stroll, drive to Mont Boron, which is just outside of town and offers beautiful scenery. Nice is such a magical city that everyone needs to visit at least once in their lifetime!

Cannes Film Festival is in full swing

The town is overrun with tourists in May. In the off-season, there are plenty of sights to visit, such as the avenue of stars, that are connected to the city’s film heritage. Arrive shortly after the ‘circus’ has left town, and you can be photographed on the red carpet alongside Angelina Jolie and others!

Miniscule Monaco

Given the size, you can see all of the major attractions in a single day. There’s the palace and Princess Grace’s tomb in the cathedral, in addition to the port with its superyachts. If buying designer clothes is out of your price range, grab a bite to eat at Café de Paris and observe the ‘super cars’ pull up in front of you before heading into Italy.

Take a trip to the (private) beach

Although the beach in Nice is devoid of sand, the cobblestones become increasingly smaller as you travel along the coast. In Antibes, a sandy beach with a cafeteria is located near the port. Otherwise, rent a sun lounger on one of Nice’s beaches for a reasonable price. If you really want to relax and unwind, then a beach is an ideal option!

 

The Contribution of Gambling to The Tourism Industry

Tourism is good for the economy as it brings in more money. The ability to attract tourists is vital and casinos can draw them and get them to spend money. Of course, other tourist attractions can also attract them but there is something about the overall excitement of the whole gambling experience that people want to experience. By just taking a look at some of the largest casinos in the world, it is easy to see how tourism is boosted by casinos.

Quality entertainment

Casinos offer a variety of games for tourists to play. This includes games like blackjack, poker, and slot machines. Slot machines are fun to play with and allow tourists to test their luck. On the other hand, table games require more skill and can be overly exciting.

Visiting a casino online is also becoming increasingly popular, and Parx in Pennsylvania offers an online real money casino that provides a great variety of games in addition to its brick and mortar casino, allowing travelers to continue gambling from other tourist attractions.

Other industries benefit

Many industries benefit from the visitors to casinos, such as the hospitality industry. Where there are casinos, there are usually also resorts, hotels and restaurants. Local restaurants in Pennsylvania, for instance, receive a boost from tourists traveling Pennsylvania and playing in casinos. Local tourist attractions also benefit from gamblers taking a break from gambling.

Gambling also offers an outlet for those who want to mix business and pleasure. For locals who have spent a long day doing business, casinos offer them a way to relax and unwind.

A tool for economic growth

Many states, such as Pennsylvania, have approved gambling mainly because it is seen as a tool for economic growth. It can help increase employment and offer greater tax revenue to state and local governments. The more revenue casinos bring in, the more tax they have to pay and governments can do a great deal with this money to benefit citizens.

International tourists

Gambling is illegal in some places but this doesn’t deter those who want to gamble. They may look for casinos where they can gamble online but they can also visit places where they can go to legal casinos and gamble. In fact, some people travel the world and visit all the largest casinos in various countries to play. Casinos can therefore benefit from international tourism and the local economy benefits from money spent by these tourists on casino games, restaurants, and accommodation.

Providing high spending clients with VIP services often includes private gambling rooms, golden member privileges and amazing amenities, which make the experience more tantalizing for rich tourists. There is no doubt that casinos can contribute to the tourism industry by giving tourists quality entertainment.

 

Selling a House isn’t as Difficult as You Think

When you’re ready to sell your house, you should put it up on sale. It takes time to find the perfect buyer. However, you might also worry that it’s not an easy process. Given the number of properties for sale, finding the right buyer could take time. Before you lose hope, you should realise that selling a house isn’t as difficult as you think.

There are plenty of potential buyers

While there are many houses for sale, there are also many potential buyers. Some of them are actively finding, while others are waiting to receive a recommendation. You won’t find the perfect match right away, but it will come. You have to be patient. Whether it’s a couple eager to start a new life or someone who recently relocated in your area, there will always be an interested buyer.

You have to work on your marketing skills

Just because there are properties that look better than yours doesn’t mean people will choose them. It’s a matter of highlighting the best features. You can use your marketing skills to convince these buyers that you have the best offering. If you have a walk-in closet, you should highlight it when advertising. Some people are specific with what they want. If some buyers want to have a walk-in closet, they will forget all other features. They will close the deal right away.

Be patient in answering questions

Some people are willing to buy and are financially capable of doing it. They want to take time before making up their minds. They will also bombard you with questions. It might be annoying, but you should be patient. You will eventually win them over. However, if you’re impatient and dismissive, you will lose potential buyers.

Prepare your documents

When you decide to sell your house, you should prepare the documents. It helps to transfer the ownership to the buyer once you closed the deal. You don’t want to put the other party at an inconvenience. You can also walk away from the transaction as soon as you legally transferred the property ownership.

Consult with a real estate agent

Just because you decided to sell your property doesn’t mean you have to do everything on your own. You can work with a real estate agent like the experts at Beresfords. You need these people to guide you in the process. They’ve been in the industry for a long time, and they can connect you with hundreds of potential buyers. They will also tell you how you can convince more people to buy. It’s better to have an agent than to start the process from scratch. You will also receive advice related to the legal aspects of the transaction. It will be a smooth and easy ride.

Given these reasons, you shouldn’t hesitate to sell your house. Once you receive the amount as a result of the deal, your effort will pay off. You can invest in another property that you might want to sell at a higher price later.

How to save money with home insulation

Installing thermal insulation in your home is one of the best ways to reduce energy consumption and save money on your power bill year round.

Thermal insulation products are made from materials such as glasswool or polyester which are effective at slowing down the flow of heat. That means on a hot day, insulation will help keep your home cooler and during winter insulation will keep your home feeling warmer.

With better temperature regulation, you’ll find that you don’t need to turn the heater or air conditioner on as often. And when you do, having insulation will mean your heater and air conditioner don’t have to work as hard and won’t consume as much energy. That means greater savings on your power bill!

Check out the awesome ideas below for ways to reduce energy consumption and save money with insulation.

Top up the insulation in your roof

The roof is where the greatest heat loss and gain occurs in a home. More than any other area of your house, ensuring your roof is insulated will make the biggest difference to indoor temperatures and energy usage.

Roof insulation is usually installed during construction and renovation phases when the ceiling cavity is exposed. However, if your home has safe and convenient access to the roof, you can install insulation at any time.

Check out the existing insulation in your roof. It may be possible to install new insulation over the old insulation if it’s in fair condition. If you notice any damages to the old insulation, any moisture or mould issues or rodent infestations, you should clear out the old insulation first and then install the new.

Make the most of renovations

The best time to install insulation in your walls is during the renovation phase when wall cavities are exposed. If you are planning a major renovation, make sure you think about upgrading your insulation as you won’t get another chance once the walls have been plastered!

Insulation batts are the most effective way to insulate your home. They are typically made from glasswool (fibreglass) or polyester and come pre-cut to fit between the timber joists of most Australian homes. Insulation batts are easy to handle and can be installed as a DIY project or by a professional. If you’re planning a DIY installation, make sure you read up on the best practices to ensure a safe and effective result.

While you’re at it, consider choosing acoustic insulation for your walls. Acoustic insulation batts will still provide you with the thermal benefits, but they’ll also prevent the transfer of noise so you can keep your home quiet and peaceful. Acoustic insulation is great for between floors of multi-storey homes too.

Upgrade to a higher R-Value

The best way to get more out of your insulation is to choose a higher R-Value. This number indicates the effectiveness of an insulation product. Or in other words, how much insulating power it has. The higher the R-Value, the better the product is at slowing down heat flow and the more potential savings you’ll make.

Experts recommend installing at least R4.0 in the ceiling for warmer climates like Perth and Brisbane and at least R5.0 if you live in a cooler climate like Melbourne, Sydney or Adelaide. By choosing to upgrade to R6.0, your home will be even better at regulating temperatures. And when you switch the air con on, it’ll cool your home faster and more efficiently. That means less money spent on your power bill.

Insulate your hot water system

Already ticked off the home insulation and looking for other ways to make your house more energy efficient? Try insulating your hot water system tank and pipes!

Modern hot water storage tanks are usually made with in built insulation, but adding extra insulation in the form of a jacket can help minimise heat loss. If your water stays warmer, you won’t be wasting energy on continually heating it up.

Your hot water system pipes transport water from the storage tank to the taps inside your home. During the transportation, heat can be lost out of the walls of the pipes. Pipe lagging is special insulation for pipes.

When you install pipe lagging around your hot water pipes, less heat will be lost, making your hot water system more energy efficient and ensuring you get lovely hot water when you need it. It’ll also protect the system so that it lasts longer – another way hot water system insulation will help you save!

Draught-proof your home

Anywhere that air can get into your home, heat can escape or creep in too. You’ll notice that if you leave a door open on a hot day, your house will heat up much faster. In addition to installing insulation in your walls, ceiling and floors, you should draught proof your house to seal up any unwanted gaps around your home.

Start by checking around windows and doors and any piping that goes from the inside to the outside of your home. Sealing gaps is fairly easy and can be done as a quick DIY project by using an inexpensive sealant to fill in any gaps.

Consider using door socks / door stoppers at the base of your doors to prevent heat loss and gain through the gap under your doors. When you turn your air conditioner on in one room, shut the doors and place a door stopper to make your cooling more energy efficient.

How much will I save with insulation?

According to the Australian Government’s website Your Home, installing insulation in your ceiling could cut your power bill by 30% and installing insulation in your walls could cut your bill by as much as 25%! Draught sealing may reduce your home’s energy consumption by 10-20%.

What’s more, the payback period of insulation can be as quick as a couple of years. You’ll feel the temperature difference immediately and you’ll be saving on your power bill in no time.

 

5 Easy Steps to Refinishing your Timber Table Top

Dining tables are almost always the heart of a home where people come together and connect with one other. But if your table is looking a little worse for wear, you might not feel so great about inviting people to share a meal at it.

Whether you’ve got an extendable timber dining table, an antique heirloom or a bargain you grabbed second hand, refinishing your table can transform the way it looks. And the good news is, it’s not too tricky to do. Follow the steps below to refinish your table top and fall in love with it again!

Decisions to make before you start

What type of table do you have?

Identifying what your table is made from and whether or not it has been stained can help you decide the best way to finish it.

  • Solid wood – solid wood tables will have growth rings and a grain which wraps naturally around the sides and edges of the table. Solid wood is the easiest to refinish. If the wood is stained, beware that underneath a different colour may emerge.
  • Composite or faux wood – manufactured wood will not have the growth rings. Sometimes there may be a veneer on top which is a thin layer of real wood on top of the composite or particleboard. Veneers are much harder to refinish than solid wood as the layer is so thin.
  • Laminate – much like the veneer tables, laminate tables have a thin layer on top. However, instead of being made from wood, the laminate layer is made from plastics. These types of tables are not appropriate for refinishing.

What type of finish do you need?

A finish is the layer you put on the wood furniture to protect the surface of the wood. Without the proper finish, or if the finish is damaged, your wood may expand out of shape when exposed to too much moisture or shrink and crack if it dries out.

There are many different finishes available. They can fall into two categories:

  • Penetrating finishes – this type of finish will soak into the wood, leaving a more natural look and protecting the wood from the inside. Examples include linseed oil, Danish oils and tung oil.
  • Surface finishes – these stay on the surface of the wood and are often more durable, but they don’t look as natural. Examples include shellac and varnish.

What safety precautions should you take?

You should do steps 2 to 4 in a well ventilated area such as outside, in a carport or garage with the doors open. It is also recommended to wear a dust mask, safety glasses and gloves.

Step 1. Gather your tools and equipment

For a simple table, the equipment needed for refinishing is not expensive and should be easy to find in any major hardware store. You will need:

For general cleaning purposes:

  • General cleaning spray
  • Cleaning cloth
  • Clean rags

If you are using a stripper:

  • Stripper (preferably environmentally friendly)
  • Paint scraper

For sanding the table:

  • 3 x sandpaper at different coarseness (e.g. 60 grit, 100 grit and 150 grit)
  • A sanding block or mechanical sander

For finishing:

  • Stain (optional)
  • Primer and paint (optional)
  • Varnish or finishing oil
  • Brush or cloth for application

Step 2. Clean the surface

It’s important to thoroughly clean the surface of the table, including the legs, to ensure dirt and grime won’t get trapped when you refinish it. Use a general purpose cleaning spray and a damp, clean cloth. You may need to go over it a few times.

Step 3. Strip and sand the surface

You now have to decide how you are going to remove the existing finish, and how deep you want to go. Your two options are essentially: sanding or applying a stripper and then sanding.

Using a stripper

Using a paint brush, apply the stripper across the table according to the manufacturer’s instructions. It will usually be quite a thick application. Then cover the table in plastic wrap and leave for 24-36 hours.

By this time, the varnish will have separated from the wood and you can use a paint scraper to remove the finish. If parts of the varnish still remain, you may need to repeat the process. Once all the varnish has been removed, sand the table down until it is smooth.

Sanding

Sanding can be done by hand (sandpaper around a sanding block) or using an electrical sander. For both methods, start with a fairly coarse sandpaper across the entire table. Then repeat the process with a finer sandpaper until the surface is smooth to touch. Use clean rags to clean the dust off the surface. You can also wipe the surface with mineral turps to remove any fine dust that remains.

Step 4. Apply the appropriate finish

Follow the steps below for the type of finish you are applying.

Stain

Stains should be applied with a brush or clean rag evenly in the same direction as the grain of wood. Any excess should be wiped off. If you want a darker result, leave the stain longer before wiping off. You can apply more layers until you achieve the look you want. After staining, you will need to apply a protective finish as well.

Varnish

Apply varnish with a brush in the same direction as the grain. Smooth out any lumps as you go and then let the varnish dry completely. Once dry, apply a second coat.

Paint

If you want to paint the table, make sure you apply a primer coat first and wait until it dries before applying your coloured paint to the surface. When the paint is dry, you will need to apply a varnish as well to protect the table’s surface.

Oil

Apply oil to the clean surface with a brush or clean rag. Follow the grain of the wood and aim for a consistent and smooth finish. You may need to use quite a lot of oil. Keep going until the wood stops absorbing it and use some force to rub it in. The oil will enhance the natural colour of the wood as well as protecting it from moisture.

Step 5. Fall in love with your table again

Now that you have transformed the look of your table, you can make the most of it! No more annoying scratches, stickiness or flakey bits of varnish. You’ve got a table you’ll be proud to have at the heart of your home.

 

Best Storage Ideas for Your Home Décor and Organization

Wherever you live, you hardly get too much storage in your home. Modern day homes are generally created keeping the day by day smaller getting families where majority of family members spend much of their time outside their house, i.e. home, school, and office etc. Hence, it is obvious that sometimes, you may feel limited on home space and sometimes, you have too much stuff to deal with. Surplus of massive closets and strategically built storage cabinetry is a wonder that one always thinks of having in his home. But if do not have any such privilege, you can rely on plenty of other creative ideas to store all your essentials. You have to just bust out one time to wrangle the situation and your home will no more remain overwhelmed with clutter. Let me throw some light on some simple storage ideas and easy project designs for organizing and streamlining the messiest trouble areas in your home.

Organize from closet to cabinet

You can create the closet inside the cabinets to keep the your things organized and. Make some space to pull the things out that will help you to choose the desired stuff then and there and will not spread the things anywhere in the room.

Hidden staircase drawer

Your stairs outside home can turn into hidden drawers to keep the shoes and mats. This amazing idea will save you from the clutters around the main door of your home. Hidden drawers can also be created in the staircases installed inside the home to keep your home items safe and let them do not occupy much space. Elfa storage system is worth providing you the best quality modern and artificial staircase drawer and store-cases.

Storing musical items on wall

You should be a bit tricky to store your musical items. You can wall-mount them and they will enhance the beauty of your home walls. So, instead of using floor stands that are pricey and can leave your instruments accessible to the kids and hurt your pets, it is always better to hang on the walls and make space in your home.

Garage pallet organization hack

If you have a garden at your home, you must have a number of long-handle tools to manage it well. A pallet organization hack is best to store the gardening shovel, a couple of screws and a drill. Always remember that gardening and electrical tools if not stored properly, can harm people roaming around at home, especially the kids. So, it is better store them properly and in the garage to the best.

Spinning storage unit

For kids, sharing the same bedroom, can be given spinning storage units to store their things. This idea is best for dorm-dwelling school and college students when they have an ample study and gaming related materials to keep safe and uncluttered. These storage units may comprise a full-length mirror, small shelves, cupboards with bins, and magnetic board for hanging photos. Spinning feature makes it turn-able and easy to handle to the kids.

Customized truck bed drawers

Customized storage drawers can also be installed in your truck beds for efficiently organizing tools supported by the rubber bed lining that safeguards the drawers and tools from rains and other outdoor elements.

Refurnishing old cabinets

You can modify the two second-hand kitchen cabinets into one tall and trendy kitchen and bathroom cabinet. It would definitely be a new stellar storage piece of design at your home and for a perfect design, there is nothing better than Elfa storage solutions.

Magazine storage

You can easily have a stack of saved magazines in a drawer. You just need a bunch of hanging folders and a drawer to set them up for hanging. Cut a bit off the bottom of each folder, drape your magazine over the rod and hang it in the drawer. You can easily read the spines to find out which magazine you want to take out to read.

Use color-blocked pegboards

Use pegboards to store and organize a range of household products, kitchen tools, garage tools, and more. It is also useful to store the miscellaneous items like scissors, tape, crafting supplies etc. Generally, these things are typically found in the junk drawer, but when hung in full view or the pegboard, they are much easier to find and use.

 

Tested and Trusted Tips For Relocation

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The spread of the covid-19 virus across the nation and the world at large has altered many things. The moving industry is one of the industries that have been affected in several ways.

This is about the drop in patronage as potential clients are faced with restrictions on their movement. This is because there are laws deterring people from moving like before unless it is very necessary.  For instance, the CDC advised against air travel even for those that have been fully vaccinated.

Additionally, the procedures used during the packing and transportation process have changed. Social distancing, isolation of the clients from the movers, face masks and hand sanitiser are just some of the new requirements. If you are interested in finding out more about the impact of the covid-19 virus on the moving industry, you can read this.

In light of the impact of the covid-19 virus and several other things, this article will prove very useful to people who are making a transition from one part of a city, state, nation, or continent to another. This is because we will be sharing some timely tips that will make the process a lot easier.

Should You Use a Moving Company During the Covid-19 Crisis?

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You should use the services of a professional moving company if you are moving during this critical period. However, the company must be professional enough to engage safety measures in your best interest.

For instance, many top-notch services frequently use disinfectants to protect their operational staffers as well as their clients. This is asides from making use of convenient but effective face masks.

We also advise that you are very cautious if you choose to use this service. For instance, be particular about adhering to social distancing rules. You can make use of your mobile phone to pass vital information to the movers. This means that you do not have to be physically present as it used to be.

Some Tips to Help People Moving to New Locations

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You can decide to involve a moving company or handle the process yourself. As explained in the segment above, we recommend that you allow the professional to help you out.

But even at that, you have a part to play to make the transition a hitch-free one.  Some of the tips to help you through the process are listed and explained below:

Ask All the Right Questions

You cannot afford to throw caution to the wind considering the sensitive times that we are in. This means that you have to be certain that the moving company is committed to carrying out the moving process in adherence to all the covid-19 protocols.

You should take it a step further by asking about policies by the company to protect their operational staff members and clients. This can be about using face masks, placing hand sanitizers in strategic locations. You should just be certain that they understand what is at stake and are willing to help in the best way possible.

We advise that you engage the services of a capable local moving company. This is because they understand the peculiarities of the location and can use that to your advantage. For instance, people in Bronx New York should use capable movers in Bronx New York as their understanding of the area can prove very helpful.

Avoid Physical Contact with Movers

A handshake would have been the proper way to seal a deal with the moving company before the covid—19 outbreak. However, things are a lot different now.

You cannot just shake hands nor have physical contact as things currently are. So, you should be very conscious when the moving company is around to evaluate the cost of moving or moving the items.

As a matter of fact, we strongly advise that you are off the premises on the day that the movers come to move the items. You can use virtual platforms or your mobile phone to reach them when you need to pass across important information.

You should also work with a hand sanitizer and obey all the safety rules if you have to be physically present for any reason.

Do All Your Packing way before the Movers Arrive

You should be very organized about the whole process. Every packing should be completed before the movers arrive.

For a few reasons, we strongly advise that the packing is completed 48 hours before they arrive. One of the reasons for this is so that you can make certain adjustments just in case you have forgotten to pack something.

The ample time will allow you to think about what you might have left out and take the necessary action on time. Furthermore, we advise that you pack at least 48 hours before the movers arrive for health reasons.

This is because it has been discovered that the virus can only last for a certain period; definitely not up to 48 hours. So, leaving ample time before the movers arrive can prove very helpful.

Stay Away from Recycled Boxes

Boxes are one of the most used items used when packing. They can be very useful but you should avoid a certain kind because of what we have going on.

We strongly advise that you stay away from recycled boxes. This is because the recycled boxes can harbor the virus for a while after contact with someone who has it.

However, you can make use of the boxes that you have at home (if you do). If they are not sufficient, make sure that you purchase new ones rather than recycled ones.

Make Your Purchases Once and for All

Making every move count is one thing that this pandemic has taught us. This means you cannot afford to go back and forth buying supplies and all of the items that will be needed during the move.

You have to buy all that you will need at once. The reason is that frequent exposure to places where the purchases can be made increases your chances of contracting the virus. So, make every moment count by buying everything at once.

Also, you should be very careful during the process. You have to understand that no one is safe until everyone is safe. So, you are not playing by this rule for your sake alone but others as well.

Maintain Absolute Hygiene while Cleaning

Never has there been a time when maintaining proper hygiene is more important. For this reason, you should not only be concerned about packing your belongings but cleaning up as you do so. You are also to make sure that you frequently disinfect and sanitize while doing this.

By so doing, you will be protecting yourself, your family, and the movers that will help transport your items to your new location. Apart from the packed items that need to be properly cleaned and disinfected, some of the other parts that you should pay attention to include:

  • Doorknobs
  • Tables
  • Toilets
  • Handles
  • Countertops
  • Light Switches

If you are interested in finding out more about this, you can visit: https://www.shponline.co.uk/common-workplace-hazards/the-importance-of-proper-sanitisation-and-disinfection-in-response-to-the-covid-19-pandemic/

General Tips to Help People Moving to a New Location

The tips shared above are about dealing with the covid-19 health crisis when moving. However, this section focuses on some general tips that will be useful at any point in time. They include the following:

Reach Out to Your Old Acquaintances

There is an emotional side to moving to a new location. For some, it can be quite hard to deal with, especially at first. However, things can be a lot better when you reach out to your friends and acquaintances before leaving the old location.

This will allow you the opportunity to share great moments with them. For all its worth, many people that do this acknowledge the fact that it is relieving for them and helps them settle better in their new environment. So, you should make sure you reach out to everyone that you need to reach out to.

Prepare and Insure Your New Home

Many people are so caught up in the process of leaving the old location that they forget to put their new location in the right shape. Make sure you do not make that mistake. You are to do all that is required to make your new place comfortable and accommodating.

For instance, make sure you paint the new place. We advise that you get a professional painter in the new location to do this for you. This will save you the stress of doing the painting yourself after a perhaps tiring trip.

Additionally, we advise that you insure your new place. Frankly, this can play a huge role in case there is a problem in the future. So, you should not take the need to insure your new location lightly.

Get to Know Your New Environment

Settling down in a new environment can be a very hard thing. This is especially for children and pets. For instance, dogs can begin to exhibit signs of separation anxiety if the transition process is not properly done.

Well, getting to know your new environment is one of the ways to easily settle down there. You should not wait until you are in a fix before you know who to call. For instance, you should find out about the right locksmith, health care service provider, and several other things you may need as time goes on.

Wrap Up

The covid-19 virus has impacted the way things are carried out in the moving industry. We thought to let you understand what to look out for when choosing a capable company during this sensitive period. This is because it is not only about the company’s ability to get the work done but protecting you as well.

Other than this, we also discussed some general tips that will help you settle down in your new location. We advise that you make informed decisions based on what has been discussed in this article.

 

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