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5 Ways Your Business Will Benefit From Bike Racks

Bike racks are now required on every type of business. Biking to and from work, school, or university is fast becoming the preferred method of transportation. 

For employees, bicycle parking at workplaces is a must-have product.

With more and more people taking to the roads on bikes to get them from A to B, it is only logical to give your employees somewhere safe and secure to store their bikes until they’re next needed. 

So, if you are in charge investing in a bicycle rack is undoubtedly a good move for your business.

Here are 5 reasons why.

Photo by Hakeem James Hausley

1. Bicycle parking is more cost-effective, allowing an increased number of people to use a business, resulting in greater economic benefits resulting in higher visitation and trade. This is even the case when automobile parking is closed as long as some of the bicycle parking is used, it provides higher profits to local businesses in a given area. Various studies done by Lee and March (2007) demonstrate this. For example, a shopping centre in Lygon Street Carlton discovered that converting one automobile space to a bicycle station generated 3.6 times more expenditure in local businesses.

2. Cycling can provide immediate advantages to employers in terms of reduced absenteeism and enhanced alertness and performance. In addition it leads to an increase in individuals’s mental health as well the physical. Cycling to work has further advantages in today’s epidemic. It allows you to get outside air right away and maintain social distancing versus taking public transportation or carpooling.

3. 60% of all road based emissions come from cars in Australia. By reducing the number of automobile trips, increasing cycling through the provision of bicycle parking has environmental benefits. As the world moves toward sustainable alternatives in all aspects of daily life, more businesses are opting to incorporate and communicate environmental-friendliness ideals in their branding. Providing bicycle parking establishes your brand as a bike-friendly business and is an “advantageous trend that appeals to a large number of clients” says Sydney Maintenance Group.

Photo by Anna Tis

4. On the whole, bicycle parking takes up a relatively little amount of space and may be provided in locations where other transport activities are prohibited. Bicycle parking can save money by reducing the amount of automobile parking that is needed. This can result in significant savings, particularly where property values are high, through a reduction in the amount of vehicle parking required. Even where this is not the case, the construction costs associated with car parking are significant, especially where multi-level facilities are required. An employee from Bella Air Cooling supports this. If you are able to replace existing automobile parking with more space efficient bicycle parking, you will be able to add more space for the building’s primary purpose.

5. As bicycle usage rises, businesses that provide high-quality bicycle parking will undoubtedly appeal to high-value tenants who are prepared to pay a premium in order to offer their workers a workplace that meets their demands. As a result, for a modest expenditure on bicycle infrastructure, rental yields and capital growth may be enhanced. This is evident in the number of buildings within our major cities’ CBDs that have subsequently added bicycle parking and end-of-trip amenities to assist and preserve their market position. Designing bicycle parking as a fundamental component of a building or location rather than an add-on offers the greatest potential for achieving maximum value for money.

Photo by Maarten van den Heuvel

source https://australiaguides.blog/2022/05/02/5-ways-your-business-will-benefit-from-bike-racks/

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The Ultimate Guide to Building a Deck

Do you want a deck built for your home? Decks add value to any home, and they also add extra space that is usable for your family to enjoy outdoor living and share space with others. You could enjoy entertaining people with a new outdoor deck space, or you can keep it to yourself. Either way, decks are something that you will use for years to come if they are built right. What are the steps that must be taken to ensure that your deck is perfect for you and for your family?

Constructing a Good set of Stairs

Stairs in the interior of a home can be constructed with notched stair jacks which are then nailed to the wall and studs, giving them stability. Later, they are hidden with interior construction. If you build your stairs using the same method, you will see the exposed stair jacks that are not very sturdy and are unattractive. These can be strengthened with the addition of solid 2 x 12 skirts.

Add Deck Seams

The traditional method to building a deck has the random staggering of joints. This can cause issues since deck boards are sharing the joist thickness and the fasteners can cause the ends of the joist surface to split. Board ends need to be tight, and any untreated wood will begin to rot. Using the seaming method means you will place the seam strategically so that every seam is a sandwich of sorts with joists on either side supporting the seam. Vertical deck boards are just for show because they make the deck look complete.

Plan and Layout the Frame of your Deck

Plan out your deck footings by laying them out. You can make the footing holes and then align the bases of the posts. Mark the frame location by adding some stakes which you will remove to pour your deck footings. The frame can be replaced with the bases being aligned and posts set up. Posts can be screwed to your deck frame which holds them together and allows you to backfill around the posts.

Leave Space Under Doors

You never want to build your deck directly under a door threshold. Sliding doors and screens on patio doors can build up debris and when fall arrives and leaves build up it can be impossible to open a door if all of that debris is in the way. Water that collects near the door can rot the wood door casing and the door jamb trim. Water will also work under the threshold and rot your subfloor and framing. Leaving a step of about three inches is the best practice.

Choosing Your 4 x 4 Posts

When you purchase your 4 x 4 posts you want to ensure that they are as straight as possible, but that is not the only thing to look for. You also want to look at the end of the post and ensure that it is not in the tree centre. If you have the tree centre rings in the middle of your post, it can twist your post. Reject (do not purchase) any posts that have a “bullseye” on the end because these will warp over time.

Use the Right Screws

Lag screws are long and take an extraordinary amount of time to install. Construction screws look less impressive, but they can be driven easily with a basic screw gun and do not require pre-drilling. They also will not split the wood you are screwing them into. These screws are more expensive than lag screws, but they are easier to use and will not cause unwanted damage.

Avoid Miter Joints

Miters in wide boards should not be used. When wood is installed for outside construction, particularly decks, the wood begins to shrink immediately. In some cases, the wood may shrink. Miters open up in an uneven way and then the work done looks shoddy over time. Butt joints are simple, but they look better over time as the wood expands and contracts.

If you plan to build a deck on your home, you will add much value to it. Deck building requires much careful planning and preparation so you must take the time to plan the deck and ensure that it is correctly built. If you do not have the time or the energy to build your deck, you should consider hiring an experienced professional to take care of the process for you. Not only will you get a deck that looks great, but it will also last longer because it is built correctly.

source https://australiaguides.blog/2022/04/13/the-ultimate-guide-to-building-a-deck/

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Best Gym Leggings To Get Ready For Summer 2023

Photo by Antonio Florentini

Are you ready to achieve some goals and looking for your next supportive pair of tights? It’s that time of year where we may start to reflect on our past new years resolutions which still haven’t been met yet. 

“Whether it’s to stop smoking, or to go gym, we need to overcome doubts and finally commit to our decision to improve our health”, says hypnosis experts from Mindful Awareness. 

It’s time to invest in a good pair of gym tights. But with so many different styles and brands on the market, it can be hard to know where to start.

That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best gym tights for women, so you can find the perfect pair for your workout needs. Whether you’re looking for something high-waisted to support your tummy, or a pair of leggings with pockets for your phone and keys, we’ve got you covered.

So, without further ado, here are the best gym tights for women in 2022:

1. Lululemon Align Tights

These Lululemon tights are designed to hug your body in all the right places, giving you a feeling of being hugged by a cloud. They’re made from a sweat-wicking material that’s designed to keep you cool and dry, and they have a high waistband that will provide you with plenty of support.

“Sweat-wicking material and durability are essential aspects when creating work wear or fitness wear”, explains corporate merchandiser A1 Promotional Products. 

2. Gymshark Vital Seamless Leggings 2.0

These GymShark tights are the perfect choice for those who want to get a great workout in without compromising on style. With a variety of colours and designs to choose from, these tights will make you look and feel your best while you’re working up a sweat. Made from high-quality materials, Gymshark tights are designed to withstand even the most intense workouts. Whether you’re hitting the gym or going for a run, these tights will keep you comfortable and stylish all at the same time. 

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

3. Lululemon InStill High-Rise Tight

The Lululemon InStill High-Rise Tights are made from a polyester and spandex blend that has been adapted to give maximum comfort. These have a high-rise and ankle-length design with a built-in pocket in the back waist for convenient storage. Users adore how steady the waistband is and comment on how pleasant they are to wear. While some Lululemon leggings pill over time, this pair has held up exceptionally well with numerous wash cycles in our tests.

4. Under Armour Meridian Ankle Leggings

These Under Armour tights are designed to give you a feeling of being hugged by a cloud. They’re made from a lightweight material that’s breathable and sweat-wicking, and they have a high waistband that will give you plenty of support.

5. Reebok Lux Perform High-Rise Legging

These Reebok tights are designed for CrossFit athletes, but they’re also great for any type of workout. They’re made from a durable material that’s designed to withstand the rigours of CrossFit, and they have a compression fit that will help to support your muscles.

“Compression tights are excellent and a must have when training. They’re effective in eliminating muscle soreness and fatigue which lasts till after your workout” explains gym expert and home gym wholesaler from XtremeGym

Photo by  Anastasia  Shuraeva

source https://australiaguides.blog/2022/04/12/best-gym-leggings-to-get-ready-for-summer-2023/

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How to restyle your home without becoming overwhelmed

Decorating your home’s interior can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it can also be a bit overwhelming. There are so many choices to make – from paint colours to furniture selections – that it can be difficult to know where to start. But don’t worry! We’re here to help.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about decorating your home’s interior, including tips and tricks for choosing the right colour scheme, selecting stylish furniture, and more. So whether you’re looking for a complete makeover or just some small changes, we’ve got you covered.

There are a few things to keep in mind when interior designing your home. The first is to create a focal point; this can be done by using a fireplace or an interesting piece of art. You will also want to use light and airy colours, as these will make the space seem larger. Finally, you’ll want to furnish the space with comfortable and stylish furniture. With these guidelines in mind, you should be able to create a beautiful and welcoming space in your home.

Paint

Paint colours can have a big impact on the overall feel of your home, so it’s important to choose the right ones when you’re doing your interior design. There are a few things to keep in mind when you’re picking paint colours for your interiors, such as the amount of natural light in the space, the size of the room, and the overall style of your home.

If you’re not sure where to start, take a look at some inspiration photos or ask a professional designer for help. Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, it’s time to test out the colours in your space. Paint sample boards or use painters’ tape to create stripes on your walls and see how the colours look in different lighting conditions.

Photo by Pixabay 

Once you’ve found the perfect paint colours for your home, it’s important to apply them correctly. Use a quality brush or roller and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results. With a little time and effort, you can transform your interiors with paint and create a space that you’ll love coming home to.

“When selecting the best colour for a space, I often opt for light and airy colours, as these will make the space seem larger”, explains experienced interior designer Gary Hamer who specialises in home design and decoration. 

Centre Piece

Centre pieces are a vital component of any interior design scheme. They can be used to add a touch of luxury and style to a room, or to simply provide a focal point that brings the whole design together. Whatever their purpose, it is important to choose the right centre piece for your home.

There are many different types of centre piece available on the market, from traditional fireplace surrounds to modern coffee tables. If you are struggling to decide which one would best suit your home, here are a few tips to help you make the perfect choice.

First of all, think about the overall style of your home. Is it more traditional or contemporary? This will help you narrow down your options and choose a centre piece that will complement your existing furnishings.

If you have a large living room, you may want to opt for a grandiose centre piece such as an ornate fireplace surround. Alternatively, if your home is more compact, you could choose something simpler, such as a sleek coffee table.

“Centre pieces are like fashion statements in the decor world. They need to be bold and send a message”, states the CEO of My Design App. 

Photo by Martin  Péch

It is also important to consider the function of the centre piece. If it is simply for decoration, then you can afford to be more adventurous with your choice. However, if it is going to be used as a functional piece of furniture, such as a coffee table, then you will need to make sure that it is sturdy and durable.

Finally, think about the budget that you have available. Centre pieces can vary significantly in price, so it is important to find one that fits within your means. With a little bit of research, you should be able to find a beautiful centre piece that doesn’t break the bank.

Furniture

Furniture plays an important role in interior design. It can create a certain mood or atmosphere in a room, and it can also be used to convey a certain message. For example, dark and heavy furniture may be used to create a more formal atmosphere, while light and airy furniture may be used to create a more relaxed atmosphere.

Photo by Vic B 

The type of furniture that you choose for your home will also play a role in the overall design. For example, if you have a lot of art work or sculptures, you may want to choose furniture that is made from natural materials like wood or stone. If you have a more traditional home, then you may want to choose furniture that is more formal in style.

When it comes to choosing furniture for your home, it is important to keep in mind the overall theme or style that you are trying to achieve. By keeping this in mind, you will be able to choose pieces that work well together and create a cohesive design.

“I think the smaller details such as lighting, cushions or vases can take a great room to the next level” , says Hampton’s interior decor expert Hamptons Elegance.

source https://australiaguides.blog/2022/04/12/how-to-re-style-your-home-without-becoming-overwhelmed%ef%bf%bc/

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Quick Guide: 7 Health and Fitness Tips

Have you decided to embark on a personal journey to better health and fitness? There are so many things that you can do to work towards better health and fitness.

We have gathered up some of the most up-to-date information to help you on your journey. Read on to learn more about how some small changes can go a long way to improving your health.

Always Stay Hydrated

Whether you are sitting at your desk or working out, hydration plays a key role in keeping you energized and allowing you to get the most from your day. If you are training or working out, it is important to drink more water because you will sweat and lose hydration as you work out. Energy drinks and electrolytes can be useful if you are hiking in hot weather, however they can add a lot of empty calories if you are not getting much exercise. Lower calorie sports drinks are also available on the market now, so look for them when you are out grocery shopping. You can also access some tubs of drink mixes which will save you even more money if you need your water to be flavoured. Plain water is always the best and the best for you. Aim for a minimum of 8 – 10 glasses of water per day, add more if you are active or working out.

Get Yourself a Workout / Accountability Partner

Let’s face it, even if you start out feeling very focused on your goals, there will come a time when you feel like giving up. An accountability partner will help you to stay on track and keep going even when you do not feel like it. On those days when you feel like reaching for the remote instead of your trainers, call on your accountability partner so that you can motivate each other to get out and become active. Look for someone that has similar goals to you and has the same availability so that you can be assured that they will be able to get together with you at times that are mutually convenient for you.

Get More Fiber

Fiber helps you to stay full and satisfied and will help you to resist temptation in the form of junk food and easy quick snacks. Most of the time those quick snacks are mostly carbohydrate based and will add empty calories to your diet along, leaving you hungry soon after you consume them. Fiber also helps you to maintain your weight.

Stock up on Healthy Items

It is always a bad idea to shop on an empty stomach, it leads to bad choices. Try to shop in the outer square of the store where the fresh produce, meats and unprocessed foods are located. Add these three items to your grocery list: nuts in the shell (the protein and fiber in the nuts will help to keep you full), balsamic vinegar to add low-calorie flavor to your salads and vegetables and fat free plain yogurt. Greek yogurt can be used for dips and dressings and is very filling on its own.

Curb Your Sugar Consumption

Those late-night sugar cravings will get you every time if you go for high sugar snacks. If you want to satisfy your sweet tooth, drink several glasses of water to fill yourself up as much as possible first. Once you have consumed several glasses of water, you can have some fruit because it will fill you up while satisfying your sweet tooth without pushing you over the edge from calories. Try slicing up an apple and eating it with almond or peanut butter or fig halves with ricotta cheese spread on them.

Find Motivational Music

Find some music that really gets you going and use it to motivate you. Whether you are planning to get to the gym, go for a walk or dance it out in your living room, motivational music can help you to move fast enough and long enough to get a good workout in.

Keep Portions in Check

You can eat super healthy and still gain weight or fail to lose weight if you do not keep your portions under control. On a regular plate, half of your plate should be filled with vegetables, your protein serving should be the size of your palm and the remainder of your plate should be carbs.

These are just a few tips that can help you to move towards better health. The real secret is consistency and willpower. If you stay with your new habits and keep making small changes regularly. It is important to make small changes over time and not too many changes at the same time or they are simply not sustainable.

source https://australiaguides.blog/2022/03/31/quick-guide-7-health-and-fitness-tips/

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What to Consider if you are Adding a Deck to Your Home

When you decide that you want to add a deck onto your home you will need to do some planning and decision-making. To begin with you need to decide what size your deck will be, plan your budget, choose the materials and then decide if you are going to build the deck yourself or have a professional complete the work for you.

Here are ten things to consider so that you will avoid any errors in the design and build of your deck:

Purpose Living in a warm climate means that a deck will double as an outdoor living space for a good part of the year. Once you know how you will use the deck, the steps to design it become easier. You might want it for an area to have a container garden or for outdoor dining and entertainment. It could surround a hot tub or a pool or it could be in place to provide privacy when you are outside.

Budget The amount of your budget will determine the materials and size of your deck and in most cases, the design. You should remember to add the cost of permits and if you want to hire someone to build your deck, the cost of labour. Remember to add in those extras such as railings, seating, garden boxes and lights.

Material Options There are more options for deck building materials than just wood. Some of the most popular options are wood, metal and plastic, but you can also choose: • Premium hardwoods which tend to be more durable • Wood that is pressure treated and contains preservatives to protect it against the weather including redwood, cedar and pine which provide a look of warmth. • Plastic or PVC planks which will not rot and stand up to nasty weather, but can become quite hot in the sun • Aluminum decking which is slip resistant but very expensive • Composite deck material comprised of recycled plastic and wood fibre which are simple to maintain but can be more costly than traditional wood

Location Although it is obvious most of the time where your deck should be installed, you may have more than one location for a deck. The purpose for your deck can help you to decide on its ideal location. You should also consider these things when deciding where to put the deck: • The deck needs to be scaled to match the size of your home • You will want to maximize the view • Ensure that the deck offers privacy from your neighbours • Understand wind patterns that may affect your use of the deck • Ensure that you can easily access the deck from your home.

Construction You can save quite a bit of money if you build your own deck. A platform deck is easy to build and has a classic appeal. If you need more detail than a simple platform, then you need a bit of skill to make sure the finished product looks good. If you want your deck built quickly then you may want to have someone else do it for you.

Style Your deck’s style could be influenced by your home’s design. Your deck should complement the house and match its style. The architecture and lines should be followed so that the deck does not look out of place, and it is an extension of your home that looks natural and matches your house’s design and style.

Lighting Lighting can add safety at night and adds a festive atmosphere or a romantic ambience. The amount of lighting will also have an affect on your deck’s design and budget. There are many styles of lighting including: • Path lighting • Post mounted or wall lights • Recessed lights • Overhead lights • Landscape lighting • Outdoor kitchen lighting

Add Built-ins If you would like to add functionality to your deck, built-ins are the perfect option. Built-ins can customize the look for your deck and add storage in the case of benches which have lids with hinges that lift. You can store many items on your deck in storage built-ins including: • Cushions for outdoor patio furniture • Accessories for outdoor dining • Garden supplies and tools • Outdoor toys for children

Privacy There are times when you need to build a deck in a location that is not ideal because it is not very private. If the area where you want to build your deck is highly visible to your neighbours, then you want to add some privacy to the deck. You can add privacy screening or plantings that can function as a divider or buffer. Bamboo is a natural privacy hedge that grows quickly and offers a buffer against noise.

Local Building Code Before you get started with any construction, find out from your local city hall if there are any legalities to building a deck on your home. You might need to provide plans and drawings for approval. There might be certain permit restrictions for residential structure projects, so you will need to know what those are before you begin. Adding a deck to your home can be an exciting project, but you need to carefully plan it and ensure that you have a permit, if required. If you are not much of a, do it yourself type person, you may wish to hire some professionals who will complete the job quickly and ensure it is done right.

source https://australiaguides.blog/2022/03/30/what-to-consider-if-you-are-adding-a-deck-to-your-home/

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Make Your Dream Home A Reality – With Professional Refined Plumbing Services

After spending countless hours, days, nights and weeks cooped up in your own home due to the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns, it’s natural to want to breathe new life into the place you call home. From state-of-the-art renovations, modern wonders to timeless classics, we know how much Australians love to be creative and renovate their houses, gardens or even holiday homes to suit their tastes, styles, needs or requirements.

There’s something almost comforting and relaxing about taking the time to handpick those white ceramic tiles for your bathroom, making those tough decisions on what colour schemes best suit your walls and getting the correct paint, finding the right furniture, fittings and kitchen appliances to suit your style and bring your vision to life.

So, whether it’s giving your kitchen some tender loving care or completely restyling your bathroom, now is the perfect time to engage a local plumber to help you restore and restyle your humble abode.

While it might be tempting to pull those tools out of the garage, roll up your sleeves and get to work straight away, it’s important to carefully plan ahead when it comes to your renovation and engage a professional to help you achieve your dreams and goals.

With more than a decade of plumbing experience under their belts, the team at Refined Plumbing Sunshine Coast have urged Australians thinking of renovating their homes post lockdown to use professional plumbing services for their kitchen and bathrooms. Choosing a true professional plumber will go a long way when it comes to avoiding a hefty fine, saving yourselves from a renovation disaster and a mess on your hands and prevent yourselves from breaking the bank.

Why Do You Need Professional Plumbing Services?

What many people don’t realise is that while the majority of renovation work can be done yourself, doing your own plumbing work is not allowed under Australian Law. This can be easy to forget when you are excited to get the ball rolling on your renovation plans.

Plumbing work can only be done by a licensed and experienced plumber. You could face a big fine or major water leaks that could cost you thousands of dollars in damage to your home if you attempt to do your plumbing yourself. This is why it’s important to entrust this task to a true professional.

How Refined Plumbing Sunshine Coast Can Help with Your Home and Bathroom Renovations

Professional plumbers are highly experienced and have worked on many renovation projects, so they are well versed to help you when it comes to your own renovation project. So don’t be afraid to ask questions about the various phrases of your renovations or the scale of work that may be involved. Afterall, you deserve your dream renovation to be made possible.

Planning – Before you commence any phase of your renovations, you need to start from the beginning and make sure you have a plan in motion for every step of your renovation. We recommend putting a notebook together of all your ideas, colour schemes, pricing, suppliers, tiles, fittings and more so that you have all the information you need literally at your fingertips. A thorough and carefully laid out plan will help give you a goal to aim for and will make sure there is less room for error when it comes to renovations. Don’t worry, your experienced plumber will work with you through your plan so that each phrase of the reconstruction goes according to plan. Just leave the plumbing work to us!

Professional Advice – We know how near and dear your home renovations are to your heart. That’s why we can help you to make the right choices when it comes to choosing the correct fittings that will compliment your bathroom and make it stand out. We spend the time listening to your ideas and make sure that the fittings you have in mind are good quality, from a reputable supplier and will go well with your bathroom or kitchen. There is nothing worse than installing fittings and then later down the track find out that you have spent way too much money on poor quality fittings. When it comes to your bathroom, don’t be afraid to want the best. Your bathroom should be a place you can go to relax and have a bath or shower. You don’t want to be stressing out about the plumbing and whether the fittings will hold up every time you walk into the bathroom.

Install/Rearrange Pipework – We work closely with you through each phrase of your renovation and install and rearrange all the pipework along the way as you get closer and closer to your dream bathroom or kitchen. Once the hard work is done and work on the renovations progresses, we’ll return towards the end to install the tap fittings, toilets, showerheads and more. While doing renovations it can be hard to focus on so many tasks and projects at once. That’s why we plan the plumbing around your renovation plan.

Maintain Your Bathroom Plumbing – The hard work doesn’t stop when your renovations are finished. It’s important to keep your plumbing and fittings in top shape, which is why we offer regular maintenance services so you never have to worry about broken fittings or water leaks for years to come.

Refined Plumbing Sunshine Coast is passionate about helping you to get started when it comes to planning out your renovations and doing the hard yards when it comes to your plumbing and other fittings.

We know how stressful planning a renovation can be so that’s why we offer our customers and potential clients a free quote for the job. So that we can come in and see your bathroom or kitchen for ourselves and have a chat with you about the possibilities and about bringing your kitchen or bathroom dreams to life. Start planning with us and give us a call today! We’re excited to be on the journey with you, so let’s make your dream renovation a reality!

source https://australiaguides.blog/2022/03/28/make-your-dream-home-a-reality-with-professional-refined-plumbing-services/

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Investing In Your Own Home? When Is It Best To Demolish?

Photo by Pixabay from Pexels

Renovating your home can be a very costly exercise if you get the sums wrong. Telecommunications mogul Neil Royle, who has a Bachelor of Architecture, says homeowners thinking of renovating should also consider the prospect that demolishing their existing home for a new home may be the best outcome.

“Home owners generally don’t understand the true value of their home’s structure which may lead to poor financial outcomes by way of over capitalising on renovations,” Mr Royle explains, “Some existing home structures that are many decades old may be so decreased in value they are worthless”.

“It’s important for homeowners to do the valuation sums before committing to renovations,” Neil explains, “Firstly, they need to value the existing home’s structure”.

Neil suggests finding the value of your home’s existing structure by looking at recent sale prices of similar homes in your area and comparing these numbers to same sized vacant land sales in your area. The difference between the two figures will give you some idea of the actual value of your home’s structure.

Photo by Darya Sannikova from Pexels

“The closer the recent vacant land sale values are to the recent house values the more I would be inclined to think about demolishing the existing home structure and building a new home,” says Mr Royle, “Homes that are many decades old may have actually decreased in value to the point of being worthless”. 

It’s important for homeowners to do the valuation sums before committing to renovations, the best place to start is with your local architect or building designer. You can also use a handy construction cost calculator to get an idea of what to expect. 

source https://australiaguides.blog/2022/02/22/investing-in-your-own-home-when-is-it-best-to-demolish/

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Your Guide To Concrete Protective Coatings and Sealers

Concrete is one of the most widely used building materials in the world today, especially for flooring. It is incredibly strong and robust, but when it comes to floor areas, concrete can experience a lot of wear and tear and be exposed to loads of abuse.

The answer to this abuse is to coat the concrete with a protective coating. Some coatings are all about concrete protection, while other coatings have been designed to also improve the aesthetics of the concrete surface. Rather than simply having bare and boring grey concrete floors and walls, they can be made to look nice and pleasant, totally changing the image of the concrete and surrounding environment.

This comprehensive guide is going to delve into protective coatings for concrete floors and other concrete surfaces in a variety of situations, so you have a better understanding of what might be the right solution for your needs.

Ultimately, consulting with an industry expert will ensure you make the right choice.

What Is Concrete Protective Coating?

A concrete protective coating is any coating that helps to protect a concrete surface from things like general wear and tear, crumbling, moisture, storm damage, abrasion, damage from harsh chemicals and more. Exterior concrete surfaces are often protected by simply adding several coats of paint, if that’s all that is required. When it comes to high traffic areas such as concrete floors, often applying a coat of paint just isn’t nearly good enough.

Aesthetics are important, but the main reason to protect concrete surfaces, in particular the floors, is to prevent the occurrences mentioned above, but also to avoid contamination of the floor space in certain environments, such as food production. Another key reason is to render a floor non-slip, which is vital in commercial environments where there is the possibility of water or other moisture on the floors and making them hazardous. Other protective coatings protect the concrete from things like chemical spills and other corrosive substances.

Concrete floor protection also makes the floors far easier to clean and keep clean and hygienic.

Let’s summarise some of the main points of concrete protective coatings and what they protect against:

Wear and tear

Crumbling

Moisture

Storm damage

Contamination

Chemical spills

Easier cleaning and maintenance

Hygiene

Aesthetics

How Do You Protect Concrete Structures?

It can depend on the type of structure, what it’s predominantly used for and the environment that the structure is in, what type of protective coating is best or recommended.

As a general rule, in just about any circumstance, unprotected concrete is rather porous and prone to absorbing all sorts of liquids, along with being prone to substances that can cause concrete to deteriorate, such as carbon dioxide and chlorides.

Epoxy coatings that cover the concrete and sealers prevent liquids and other destructive contaminants from entering into the concrete and, just as importantly, from breaking the bond between concrete and reinforcing rods embedded within it. Some protective surfaces are rigid while others are known as being plasto-elastic or elastic systems, designed to enable some flexibility for areas like joints or where slight movement of the concrete is likely, such as on a bridge, for example.

Repair mortars, smoothing mortars and pore fillers are other products used to both repair and protect concrete structures from deterioration.

In some instances, just painting the concrete surface with several coats of paints provides enough protection from the elements and also gives the concrete structure much more aesthetic appeal.

How Do You Protect Concrete In Water?

It was mentioned in the section above that raw concrete is quite porous, so naturally, when concrete is immersed in water (either fresh water or salt water), such as for bridge pylons, it will need to first be protected from absorbing corrosive and damaging water.

Polymer-modified cementitious coatings have been successfully used to protect concrete that is constantly exposed to or immersed in water. These coatings are also employed to provide concrete protection for potable water plants and the like. These coatings also provide a degree of flexibility. Why this is important is it allows the polymer coating to seal things like hairline cracks, where a degree of movement might be likely due to expansion and contraction through temperature extremes.

Epoxy coatings are not recommended for concrete that has a moisture content greater than 4%, as this moisture can prevent the epoxy from effectively binding to the concrete surface. For concrete that has a higher moisture content, an epoxy-cement mixture can be used to form a solid bond.

Other methods of waterproofing concrete include densifiers, crystalline admixtures and water repellents, such as a variety of concrete sealers.

What Are the Different Types of Concrete Coatings?

You may have been asking yourself the question: What is the best concrete coating? Well, this depends on where the concrete is located, the conditions and environment and whether the concrete you wish to protect is a floor or another part of a structure.

Let’s take a look at some different types of concrete coatings scenarios, so you have a better understanding of the need for different coatings depending on the application and environment.

Sealers for Polished Concrete

Polished concrete floors need to be coated with a protective sealer to maintain their look and integrity. The term “polished concrete” is rather generic and relates to a number of different decorative concrete floor coverings. Different floor sealers work better on different surfaces, but Epimax has something to suit every circumstance.

Industrial Concrete

When it comes to concrete used in industrial areas, there are a variety of different protection systems available, depending on the environment and what types of chemicals or substances the floor especially might be subjected to. For example, the concrete protection for the wine industry differs from what will be used in a chemical plant. Talk to Epimax about just the right concrete protection for your particular industry.

Extreme Environments

Resources and heavy industry often use concrete structures for manufacturing and storage purposes. Conditions in these environments can be extremely harsh, ranging from highly-abrasive materials through to enduring temperature extremes. In order to withstand extremes and prevent failure of surfaces and structures, the concrete requires special protective measures. Epimax not only has a range of concrete protection materials for extreme environments, but also protection for steel as well.

Water and Wastewater

Water and wastewater plants and facilities face their own unique challenges when it comes to protecting concrete surfaces. For potable drinking water, the challenge is to ensure surface integrity is maintained at all times so water cannot be contaminated, and also to guarantee that the surface itself doesn’t contaminate the drinking water supply. Wastewater is also being recycled these days, so it’s vital that even wastewater remains free of any contaminants and that facilities are fail-safe due to concrete protection measures.

Aesthetics

When it comes to aesthetics for concrete flooring, for example, an epoxy resin coating or a decorative coating is one of the most commonly-used finishes to create a pleasant appeal. These coatings then need to be sealed to protect them from wear and tear as per the section above regarding polished concrete floors.

Densifiers

The way concrete densifiers work is they chemically react with the pores in the concrete, creating within those pores a calcium silicate hydrate. This actually increases the strength and density of the concrete. If concrete is weak and surface abrasion is occurring, then a densifier is the answer.

Concrete Water Repellents

Water absorption can cause:

Spalling

Cracking

Staining

Freeze/Thaw damage

Water repellent sealers are designed to reduce the occurrence of those issues mentioned on the list above. Once again, a chemical reaction takes place within the pores of the concrete. A hydrophobic barrier is created that causes liquids and water to bead on the surface rather than being absorbed into the concrete.

Acrylic Sealers

Concrete with a glossy surface will be enhanced by coating it with an acrylic sealer. The protective surface film created by the sealer will protect the concrete from water absorption, as well as surface abrasion and help maintain the aesthetic appeal of the glossy surface.

How Long Do Concrete Coatings Last?

The answer to this question can depend on many factors, including environment, the abuse the concrete is subjected to, whether the concrete is in a place where harsh chemicals may be spilled on treated concrete flooring, if the concrete is exposed to moisture or submersed in water and a whole host of other factors.

As a general rule, expect the concrete coating and protection to last between 5 to 10 years. This figure can vary obviously, but it works as a very general guideline. To be absolutely certain, regular inspections of the concrete surface by an expert are recommended, as these inspections will reveal if a concrete surface has been compromised and needs to be resurfaced to protect it.

The length of time the sealer or concrete protection treatment lasts also depends on the type of treatment. For instance, you can expect an epoxy or urethane system to last up to 10 years, but if you treat the concrete with an acrylic resin sealer, the protection may only be sufficient for up to 3 years or maybe a lot less.

There are a lot of variables that come into play when determining how long concrete protection will last and they depend on the environment and punishment the concrete is subjected to, along with the type of sealer or protection the concrete is coated with.

If a particular sealer costs a little more but is guaranteed to last longer, then it’s well worth spending the extra cash. In the long run, it could save you money by not having to reseal the surfaces as often, or save you from having to actually repair concrete surfaces in the future.

How Do You Keep Concrete From Deteriorating?

The 2 most common causes of concrete degradation include:

Water absorption

Surface abrasion

The single best method to keep concrete floors and structures from deteriorating is to seal it with a quality concrete sealer, specially designed for that particular environment. The chosen sealer can also be dependent on the actual condition the concrete is currently in.

Unprotected concrete is vulnerable to the elements, water absorption, abuse and wear and tear, harsh chemicals and so on. With no protection at all it’s going to degrade. That’s just a fact.

Protected and coated concrete also has much more aesthetic appeal, so the concrete surface looks better along with being adequately protected.

Can Crumbling Concrete Be Repaired?

To prevent crumbling and flaking of concrete in the first place, always seal it with a penetrating concrete sealer.

The good news is that crumbling concrete can be repaired, so long as the main infrastructure and overall strength has not been compromised. In that case, the concrete that’s crumbling would need to be replaced.

For crumbling concrete that is repairable, you can apply a concrete resurfacing agent to resolve the problem. This works on cracks and areas of minor crumbling. For bigger crumbling issues, it may be necessary to remove the crumbling section and replace that portion with fresh concrete, after which it should either be sealed with a quality sealer, or at least painted for protection.

Polymer resins can also be used to fill in cracks and chips in crumbling concrete. This is often in the form of a vinyl concrete patcher. This will bond the repair to the existing concrete and even out the surface.

Unless the structural integrity of the concrete has been compromised, you can successfully repair crumbling and cracking concrete surfaces and have them looking as good as new again.

It’s best to discuss your situation with an Epimax expert to discover just the right solution for your particular concrete problem.

In Conclusion

There are many concrete protection solutions available and the right one will depend on the environment your structure or floor is located in, how much wear and tear the concrete receives, whether it’s subjected to things like harsh chemical spills, if aesthetics are important, if surfaces need to be non-slip and so much more.

To get it right and to make the correct decisions when it comes to protecting the concrete in your premises, consult with an industry expert to determine the very best plan of attack to achieve the desired outcome.

It’s worth putting some thought, time and money into protecting those vital concrete surfaces and floors, as your business longevity will depend on the overall quality and integrity of the concrete. Concrete protection and sealers are an investment in your business’s future.

source https://australiaguides.blog/2022/02/21/your-guide-to-concrete-protective-coatings-and-sealers/

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Online Learning vs Offline Learning- Which Is Better?

With the COVID-19 pandemic keeping most people at home, many schools have started to offer online classes. But are online classes really just a short-term fix or are they here to stay? In this article, we will compare  online and in-person (offline) classes and give you information to make a proper decision.

Photo by NeONBRAND on Unsplash

Accessibility

One of the best things about online classes is that students can access them from anywhere in the world. They can log in from home, or any other place, and learn whatever they need to know. Apps like Zoom and Microsoft Team help students attend their lectures from home. This is helpful because they don’t have to leave their home and they don’t have to spend any money on transportation. This also means that students have more flexibility with where they can take their classes.

However, offline classes require students to travel to the location of their educational institution. This means that teaching takes place in a fixed location, such as a lecture hall or physical classroom. Some students have to travel a long way to get to their school. This can be really inconvenient for them. Plus, they have to pay for transportation costs.

Lynley from Arrendell education centre says, “In-person classes have been the norm for many years and that’s what we were comfortable with. But now, with technology and a bit of adapting, online classes are becoming as good as traditional classes. Yet, there are things like retaining a student’s attention, keeping students focused which make online classes a bit challenging.”

Time Management

Students who take online classes often find it difficult to manage their time. This is because they are distracted by many things and they don’t have a set schedule. Since online classes let you learn at your own pace, some students might not have a good schedule. This can lead to them procrastinating. In addition, students have to stay logged in for a long time, so they might get distracted by the internet or social media.

Offline classes have a strict schedule that the teachers set up. Students must follow this schedule. In addition, since there is synchronous learning, students must complete their work and projects on time. 

Another benefit of having students learn in a physical classroom is that they are able to focus more since there are fewer distractions. In addition, this setting allows students to complete their work at a set pace and according to a predetermined schedule.

Sydney business rebranding expert Danny says, “We are all for online learning. But of course, offline learning has its own advantages. I think it depends on your needs and your availability. And if I had to make a recommendation, I would say that it depends on their needs. Offline learning is more interactive, more personal. Online learning is flexible and can be self-paced.

Photo by Julia M Cameron from Pexels

Flexibility of Classes

One of the best things about online classes is that you can set your own learning pace. This way, you don’t have any pressure to learn quickly. You also have access to recorded videos and online reading material, which means you can attend lectures at a time that is convenient for you. This also gives students more time to understand the material and complete their work or research at their own pace.

When it comes to getting an education offline, there is a lot of rigidity. This means that students have to attend their lectures and sessions on time. There are no pre-recorded videos or notes that students can easily access, so they have to follow a schedule that is set by their educational institute.

Coffs Harbour HSC tutor Liz says, “Online classes are so much more convenient. The students don’t have to travel anywhere and online classes are flexible. For tutors like us, we get to teach more students who live far from our tutoring centre. So, yes, online classes combined with offline classes is a blessing.”

Technical Issues in Offline and Online Classes

Online classes can be difficult because there are often technical problems. You need access to the proper equipment, like webcams and microphones, and a good internet connection. Some students may have trouble with their internet connection or lack the proper technology to be able to learn in a seamless way. This can make it hard for them to attend live lectures or download videos or notes online.

Offline classes are not usually affected by technical issues. Students and teachers do not need to be especially good at using technology, and since most learning happens in the physical classroom, technical issues are not usually a big problem. However, there can be some exceptions if the class involves presentations or using computers.

Conclusion

The best way to learn is up for debate. While some people prefer the flexibility of online classes and its synchronous learning, others might like the fixed schedule of offline education in a physical classroom where they can interact with their teacher face-to-face and ask questions immediately. However, it’s important to note that many students who take online courses may have trouble with technical issues or distractions from social media sites when studying on their own at home. In the end, the choice is yours to make.

source https://australiaguides.blog/2022/02/17/online-learning-vs-offline-learning-which-is-better/

[australiaguides]

The Ultimate Guide to Wakeboarding

hoto by Kelly L from Pexels

The world of wakeboarding is full of opportunities for people who love being on the water. Wakeboarding has something for everyone and can be a great way to spend time with your friends or family in the sun, especially if you all enjoy watersports.

“What exactly is wakeboarding?”

Wakeboarding is a great activity which involves riding a wakeboard across the surface of the water and performing tricks and stunts as you go. It’s very similar to snowboarding except that there are no lifts or runs – just pure unadulterated fun out on the open waters! The reason why it’s often referred to as ‘water-snowboarding’ is because wakeboards look like small snowboards that wakeboarders use to skim along the water.

A wakeboarder is towed by a speedboat (or other type of motorised boat) and, when riding across the wake created by the boat, it creates plenty of G-forces which allows wakeboarders to pull off all sorts of cool tricks. There are two main types of wakeboarding: cable wakeboarding which involves riders being towed along by cables (which can be attached to boats or winches); and barefoot wakeboarding which requires you to be towed behind a boat using nothing but your bare feet!

“What age can wakeboarding be started?” 

It is possible for young children to wakeboard, most professional lessons recommend children get started at the age of 6. Children should always wear life jackets and helmets when boarding. Knee pads and gloves are also important to provide an added layer of protection. As long as your kid wants to wakeboard and has good balance then they should be able to wakeboard from a young age as long as you provide them a safe environment.

Photo by Kelly L from Pexels

“What equipment do I need for wakeboarding?”

In order to wakeboard you’ll simply need a wakeboard, a wakeboard helmet, knee pads and boots – these are the basic necessities which will allow riders to take part in this fantastic sport. However, if you’re just starting out then I’d recommend getting a wake-specific board bag as well – it’ll keep your wakeboard safe and will help prevent damage being done to it during transportation. You can buy wake specific carry bags from most water sports retailers – but they don’t have to be used solely for carrying wakeboards – they can carry snowboards too! 

“I’m not sure what size boots or boards I should get before wakeboarding?” 

This is a common question that wakeboarders often ask – and there isn’t a definite answer. 

“The size of wakeboard you get depends on your weight, height and ability level” notes wakeboard retailer Waterskiers Connection Australia.

If you head down to your local water sports retailer, they’ll be able to help with sizing or give you recommendations based upon your height or weight.

“What clothing do I need when wakeboarding?”

In order to wakeboard safely you need all the basic safety equipment such as wakeboard, knee pads and helmet – but beyond that it’s up to you. You can wakeboard in shorts, jeans or wetsuits depending on the weather conditions. However, when heading out to ride in cold windy conditions then I’d recommend wearing a wetsuit which will help keep clothes dry whilst still giving riders plenty of flexibility!

“Where do wakeboarders usually wakeboard?”

It’s common for wakeboarders to wakeboard at lakes or rivers because it offers them open waters with little to no waves and no obstacles getting in the way of their boarding. There are lots of wakeboarding spots all around the world so if your local area doesn’t have one then search online for other wakeboarders favourite recommendations.

“Do wakeboards have to be attached to boats?”

Yes, wakeboards are almost always attached to boats in order for riders to get towed along. However, it is possible to wakeboard without a cable or rope – but this only applies to barefoot wakeboarding which is incredibly difficult and should not be attempted without prior experience!

Photo by Pixabay from Pexels

“What sort of wakeboards are there?”

There are three main types of wakeboard: Cable Wakeboarding (which involves cables being used to tow wakeboarders); Wake-Specific Boards (which are designed specifically for wakesurfing rather than other action sports); and Surf Style Boards (which are rounded at the front for riding waves). 

“All these different boards can be used for wakeboarding but there are some boards which are better suited to certain conditions” explains the aquatic leisure experts at Aus Leisure.

“What are wakesurf boards?” 

Wakesurf boards are wakeboards which have soft rounded noses so they can be ridden backwards in waves. They’re slightly different from wake-specific wakeboards because they aren’t made specifically for wakeboarding – rather they’re designed with surfing style features instead!

“How long can I wakeboard for?” 

This question varies based upon riders ability and the level of resistance being provided by the water. 

“It is possible to wakeboard on flat waters all day without stopping but if you’re wakeboarding over rough waters then you might find yourself getting tired after only a couple hours” says the holiday consultants from Happy Days Moreton Island.

It’s hard to say a definitive time of how long wakeboarding takes because it’s down to the wakeboarder themselves.

“Do wakeboards include bindings?” 

Wakeboards will often come with boots attached to them which are used for wakeboarding – but these aren’t always included. In order to wakeboard you can use wake-specific boards or surf style wakeboards without any boots or bindings!

source https://australiaguides.blog/2022/02/09/the-ultimate-guide-to-wakeboarding/

[australiaguides]

4 Things To Consider Before Tying the Knot

Getting married is not a simple occasion. It is THE occasion of your life.

There are many decisions to make, many things to plan. When to marry, where to get married, how to do the celebrations, what about the guests. There are so many questions that make one’s mind go crazy. Art therapist Natalie says, “It’s normal for people to get nervous, excited and anxious about planning a wedding. It is one of the biggest days of our lives. And I think it’s important to consider all those questions before the wedding. It prepares you now so that you can enjoy the occasion.”

But worry not… we’ve got you covered. While this list is definitely not comprehensive, you can use this as a guide to get the ball rolling and plan the best wedding event anyone has ever seen.

A Wedding Budget

Of course. How much are you willing to spend for this special occasion? That’s the big question that you need to consider when planning a wedding.

Will it be a simple gathering with family and close relatives? Will it be an extravagant event with the whole of the city invited? And then there’s the location of the wedding, the food, the decorations among other things.

You will have to take all of these things under consideration and then set a budget for the special day.

Make sure that you get together with your families and flesh out the initial plans and see if people are going to contribute financially. The amount of money your family is willing to contribute to your wedding will very much help you set your initial wedding plans.

Yes, talking about money and budget early on during such a special occasion sounds uncomfortable but setting a budget helps you set the expectations for the entire wedding ceremony.

Better to be prepared than to be sorry… as the saying goes.

Your Plans as a Couple

You’re tying the knot. Finally!! Now, it is time to plan your life together as a couple. And the first plan goes to planning your wedding.

In fact, wedding entertainment specialist Sam says, “We understand that weddings are one of the most important and after having managed over 2000 events since 2015, the best wedding events I have seen are the ones where couples said they planned out their wedding in advance.” And hiring an experienced wedding entertainment company means no hassle and no worry about entertaining your guests.

And then there’s food for your wedding, and the decorations. There’s so much to plan. After you set your budget, this is definitely the most important aspect you need to consider for a successful wedding.

And during this time, there might be some hiccups when you don’t agree on what to do for the wedding. Remember, this is a time for celebration, so open communication and flexibility is your secret to success during this phase.

Consider a Wedding Planner or Coordinator

Okay, now you’ve got the plans up. Wedding entertainment, food, decorations are all planned… It’s time to consider hiring a wedding planner or coordinator. Life becomes so much easier when with the experts.

They can help you with many aspects of your wedding like your budget, your schedule, lists of vendors that you can use, and can also give you suggestions about the site of your wedding.

That was for a consultant. But you can also hire the day-of-wedding coordinator who makes sure that all of your plans go without a hitch.

But of course, you can plan your own wedding and do it your way. Having an expert to help you can take your focus off the planning and on enjoying the wedding.

If you do plan to hire a wedding planner, make sure to include the costs incurred on your initial budget.

Date and Venue

So, you’ve got your budget out. You’ve completed your plans. You’ve hired an entertainment company. Now, it’s time to book the date and the venue of your wedding.

And it is important to select the venue very carefully as it represents your wedding. In all your wedding photos, your wedding videos, the venue is going to be that backdrop.

How about the date?

Book your date as soon as possible. You don’t want to hold out until the last moment to book your wedding date. That’s because wedding companies might get booked out if you don’t book early enough. It’s better to be early than to be sorry. Holiday accommodations expert Robert says, “Once the date and venue is booked, where to go for a honeymoon? That’s an important question to consider. Some prefer quiet holiday locations where they can be alone. Others prefer popular destinations. It’s something that you should definitely plan as the day gets closer.”

There are many more things that you need to consider before your wedding. But these are the primary things that you must take a serious look at for a smooth and a memorable wedding. After all, it is your time.

source https://australiaguides.blog/2022/02/09/4-things-to-consider-before-tying-the-knot/

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Be The Guest to Impress at Dinner Parties

Photo by fauxels from Pexels

As a guest at a dinner party, you want to make sure that your interesting facts are not only fascinating but appropriate for the audience. This means avoiding potentially embarrassing or inappropriate information in favor of interesting tidbits that everyone will enjoy. 

Nobody wants to go to a dinner party and say they don’t know anything interesting… so plan ahead! Here are 10 interesting facts you can use at the next dinner party you attend:

1. Facts about famous people move very quickly through social circles, so if something is related to famous people in some way it’s always interesting conversation material. Try sharing that Jamie Lee Curtis is the godmother of Jake Gyllenhaal who is the godfather of Heath Ledger’s daughter or that Cameron Diaz went to highschool with Snoop Dogg. 

2. People who know trivia about the movie industry are also interesting people to be around. Ask them if they knew Psycho was the first U.S film to show a toilet flushing or that the rates of people buying rats for pets skyrocketed after the release of Ratatouille.

Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

3.  History is super fascinating and virtually endless. You will seem interesting and smart if you can whip out a few interesting historical facts. You could share that when Thomas Edison died in 1931 his last words were “It’s very beautiful over there”? A quote that sparked interesting conversations about the afterlife, spirituality, religion, and more.

4.  People who do interesting hobbies are interesting people to be around at dinner parties. Think about your favorite hobby whether it be cooking or art, sports or writing and come up with an interesting story that you can quickly share to break the ice. You can also take photos of your work and use it for visual aid during your conversations.

5.  If you went on an awesome trip recently it can be the perfect base for interesting conversation material. 

“Whether it be an adrenaline filled story of a close call with wildlife on a hike or an interesting encounter with a worldly person overseas, people will find this super interesting” says the life coaches at Live by Your Codes, “This is especially true if they have never been to the place you’re talking about. Travel stories can also be great for bonding if the other person has visited the same place as you”.

6. Research a fun conspiracy theory that you can share with people to open up dialogue. Steer clear of topics that could offend people and stick with light-hearted theories like the fact that the British government created a propaganda campaign that carrots improve your vision during WW2. The theory says they had developed secret radar technology that allowed soldiers to see in the dark and they didn’t want their opponents to know so they claimed it was carrots!

7.  If you have interesting family members or friends, that could be a gold mine for dinner party stories. Oftentimes the best stories are ones you know a lot about like funny stories about your parent’s childhood or interesting stories about your friends.

Photo by Julia Larson from Pexels

8. If you have a quirky habit that sets you apart this could be the perfect way to open a conversation. It could be anything from a low-waste lifestyle to sewing your own clothes or not using social media. If it sets you apart from the norm it will be interesting and informative to others. 

9. If you have used an impressive app recently then this is a great way to inspire and amaze your friends. There are so many great apps out there like Remini which can restore old photos or My Design App which allows you to design your own outfits down to the fabric. 

Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

10. Movies and tv shows are a simple and super effective way to bond with people. You can share your favourite picks or laugh about your shared favourites. It is the best way to make friends and even find some great new movies and shows to add to your watchlist. “The main key for being an impressive guest at a dinner party is being a good listener,” says wealth creation consultant Muzi Dan, “Once you overcome that initial interaction people will open up and naturally want to share with you”.

source https://australiaguides.blog/2022/02/07/be-the-guest-to-impress-at-dinner-parties/

[australiaguides]

10 Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Her

Photo by Jamie Street on Unsplash

It’s that time of year again where love is in the air! If you are looking for some unique and thoughtful gift ideas for your significant other, look no further. In this blog post, we will discuss 10 different Valentine’s Day gifts that she is sure to love. From heartfelt gifts to decadent treats, we have you covered! So sit back, relax, and get ready to spoil your loved one with a special gift this year.

Gift Idea #1: A Personalized Gift

One of the best things about giving a personalized gift is that it shows that you took the time to think specifically about what your loved one would love. Whether you choose to get them a custom necklace with their initials or a monogrammed mug, they will appreciate the thoughtfulness behind it all. Swimwear expert Jacqui says, “Giving her custom-made swimsuit or necklace really shows the extra layer of love and care and I think this is the perfect gift for your significant other.”

Gift Idea #2: A Thoughtful Card

Sometimes, the best gifts are the ones that come from your heart. A card can be one of those special things because it shows them how much you appreciate them in your life and what they mean to you. Try writing a poem or letter on their favorite stationary and they will treasure it for years to come. 

Gift Idea #3: A Day at the Spa

One of the best ways to show your loved one how much you care is by pampering them with a day at the spa. This can be a great way to relax and rejuvenate both their body and mind. Plus, they will be able to enjoy some much-needed time alone while you take care of all the arrangements.

Gift Idea #4: Cooking Dinner Together

Cooking dinner together is a great way for couples who are in long distance relationships or live apart due to work schedules. It allows them to spend quality time with each other while preparing a delicious meal. Plus, it can be a fun way to learn more about each other’s culinary preferences.

Photo by How Far From Home from Pexels

Gift Idea #5: A Weekend Getaway

If you want to really spoil your loved one this Valentine’s Day, why not take them on a weekend getaway? This can be the perfect opportunity for some much-needed quality time together. Whether you choose to stay at a luxurious hotel or go on an outdoor adventure, they are sure to love it! Nigel from Australiasian Leisure says, “A couple’s weekend getaway from the busy city life is a perfect gift you can give her. Just the two of you, spending quality time together makes it the perfect Valentine’s day gift.”

Gift Idea #6: Tickets to a Concert or Show

If your loved one is into music or theatre, tickets to a concert or show can be the perfect gift. It will allow them to experience something that they are passionate about and create some lasting memories. Plus, it can be a great way to spend an evening out together.

Gift Idea #7: A Customized Gift Basket

A customized gift basket is the perfect gift for couples who have everything. You can fill it with their favorite snacks, drinks, or even beauty products. This way, they will be able to enjoy everything that they love all in one place.

Gift Idea #8: A Romantic Candlelit Dinner

A romantic candlelit dinner is the perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day. You can either cook a meal together at home or go out to their favorite restaurant for an extra special evening. Either way, it will be a night that they’ll never forget!

Gift Idea #9: A Photo Album or Scrapbook of Memories

A photo album or scrapbook of memories is the perfect gift for someone who loves pictures. It’s also a great way to re-live some of your best moments together as a couple. Clothing designer Patricia says, “Photo album, scrapbook of memories, or if you are feeling extra creative, you can give her a custom-designed dress for this Valentine’s day.”

Gift Idea #10: A Gift Card to Their Favorite Store or Restaurant

A gift card is the perfect way to show them how much you care about what they like or need. Whether it’s for their favorite store or restaurant, this will allow them the freedom of choosing exactly what they want. Plus, it’s a great way to avoid any unwanted gift drama.

We hope that this list of Valentine’s Day gift ideas has given you some inspiration for what to get your loved one this year. No matter what you choose, we guarantee that they will love it! Happy Valentine’s Day!

source https://australiaguides.blog/2022/02/07/10-valentines-day-gift-ideas-for-her/

[australiaguides]

How to Keep Your Home Secure

Once you have moved in to a new home, one of the things that should be at the front of your mind is security. It is essential for keeping your family and belongings safe. Keep reading for top 10 ways to keep your home safe and secure:

1) Reinforce the Entrances 

You need to make sure none of your windows or doors are loose or damaged as this could allow burglars easy access to your property. 

“Make sure all locks work properly and that any defective parts are replaced as soon as possible” says IWF shutters who specialise in window security, “You can go the extra mile with roller shutters which give you maximum protection against break ins”. 

You can replace the lock parts with longer screws to prevent burglars from kicking your door in or invest in a metal security door that will level up your home’s entryway to be more secure. 

Photo by Pixabay from Pexels

2) Keep your yard clean

Remove any debris or items that could be used as hiding places or step stands for burglars, such as large rocks, sheets of metal, old tires and boxes. This reduces the chances of burglars being able to hide their intentions from you or use these objects against you if they are noticed during an attempted robbery.

3) Buy a dog kennel or leash

This may seem like a strange tip if you’re not a dog owner, however career criminals often state that when they are casing properties they avoid homes with evidence of dogs. Purchasing a kennel for your backyard or a leash to hang outside your front door could prevent a robbery as burglars do not want to deal with a dog. You can also purchase lawn signs that say you have security systems installed even if you don’t.

4) Maintain fences and lock gates

You should also have all fences securely boarded so they don’t offer anyone a way over or under them. It’s also important for you to make sure all gates are latched and/or closed, as well as having locks that work properly on your garage doors. 

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5) Install motion-activated outdoor lighting 

If someone is lurking outside your home at night time, these lights will go off when they sense movement and let you know somebody might be trying to enter your property illegally. This will also act as a deterrent and scare off any burglars or peeping toms. You can also have indoor security lights installed at entrances so you can see who is there when you come home. Some alarm systems have motion detectors that can trigger lights to go on when they aren’t welcome.

6) Secure any basement doors or windows

Burglars are looking for the easiest ways into your home because chances are you won’t be at home when they do this. So if it’s easy for them to get in through a basement window, then that is one of the first places they’ll check and try their luck breaking into while trying not to be seen by neighbors walking past outside during the day time.

7) Personalise your home

Burglars don’t like homes where people still live, so personalizing your home with various items such as wall art and indoor plants will make it feel more like a home and less like an empty, abandoned building. You can also install time-activated yard or indoor security lights if you are coming home at odd hours to make burglars think your house is still occupied.  

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8) Invest in security cameras 

There are a bunch of options for home security nowadays. Security camera, alarm systems and even doorbells that have cameras and microphones for greeting guests and catching porch pirates.

“Home security systems allow you to keep your home safe even when you’re not home, you can record evidence if there is a break in and even speak into an intercom system so you can address people when they come to your door” explains the home security experts from Sunshine Security.

source https://australiaguides.blog/2022/02/03/how-to-keep-your-home-secure/

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5 Yummy Salad Recipes That Will Fill You Up 

Who doesn’t love a great salad recipe? There are so many amazing salads out there that will actually fill you up. Whether you need a lunch fix or you’re hosting a summer gatho, these recipes are sure to be a hit. 

Salads that are greens based are a great source of Vitamin A, C, beta-carotene, calcium, folate, fibre, and phytonutrients” says wellness coach Elisabeth Wightman, “Leafy vegetables are an excellent choice for a healthy diet since they have no cholesterol and are naturally low in calories and salt”.

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Green Goddess:

The classic combination of greens, avocado, almonds, and balsamic makes this recipe truly a winner. Delicious on it’s own or stuffed in a tomato for a healthy lunch salad recipe. To a bowl add 2 sliced avocados, 1 minced clove garlic, ¼ cup of chopped red onions, red leaf lettuce, apple slices, almond slivers, fresh basil and balsamic vinegar (measure these with your heart).

“Chickpeas are high in plant-based protein and can be eaten as a substitute for meat or animal products, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians” says protein vendor Iconic Lifestyle. 

Thai Beef Salad:

This one is awesome because it is so easy and so customisable. Simply add chopped cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion and thinly sliced grilled sirloin or rump steak to a bowl. Mix together ¼ cup of lime juice, 2 tbsp of soy sauce, 1 tbsp of sugar, 1 crushed garlic clove, 1 tbsp of fish sauce, 2 tsp of sesame oil and 2 tsp of grated ginger and top the salad. DONE!

The Hot Chick:

This recipe is the perfect salad recipe to bring to summer BBQs! It requires minimal effort yet tastes amazing with tons of fresh flavours. The lemon dressing really brings out the taste of the veggies while the chickpeas add protein making this recipe super filling and nutritious too. Add 1 can roasted chickpeas (drained), Kosher salt, 2 cups cherry tomatoes, 1/2 cup red onion, 5-6 basil leaves chopped to a bowl. For the dressing combine 3 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil, the juice of one lemon, 2 tsp of agave nectar and fresh cracked pepper.

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Perfect Pair:

“If you want a salad that is a little richer than try this one out” recommends Happy Days Moreton Island. Add baby rocket, chopped nashi pear, feta cheese and toasted pine nuts into a bowl and top with balsamic vinegar glaze. This delicious recipe combines all the flavours and will keep you full.

Photo by Kiro Wang from Pexels

Salmon Zest:

This salad is super nutritious and absolutely delicious! Add kale, feta, diced cucumber, smoked salmon and quinoa to a bowl and top with lemon juice and mayo. This is by far my favourite salad!

source https://australiaguides.blog/2022/02/03/5-yummy-salad-recipes-that-will-fill-you-up/

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10 Simple Steps to Clean Your Home

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1. Compartmentalise Your Cleans: 

Looking at a messy room can be super overwhelming. It can feel impossible to start cleaning. 

“The best way to get stuck in is to divide your room into categories” says life coach Jeanine, “It will trick your brain into thinking the task is more manageable and easy”.

 Go around the room and only pick up dirty clothes, put them all in a hamper in the laundry then move onto rubbish. Once you’ve picked up all the rubbish and put it in the bin outside, move to books or paper. A few good categories to use are clean clothes, dirty laundry, shoes, rubbish, paper, books and plates/cups etc.

2. Declutter: 

It’s no secret that your home will be easier to clean if you have less stuff and if minimalism has taught us anything it’s that decluttered homes look cleanest. Start by discarding any knick-knacks, clothes and kitchen items you no longer need (including expired food and products). 

3. Put things where they belong: 

Now you’ve thrown away anything you don’t need, you can find a home for all your remaining belongings. Having a place for everything makes it so much easier to keep your space clean.

Practice the “one touch” rule if you use something like sauce don’t ever put it down on the counter. Take the sauce out of the fridge, or cupboard (we don’t judge), and put it on your meal then put it straight back where you got it. 

4. Vacuum or sweep your floors a few times a week: 

A quick way to make your home look way cleaner is to vacuum or sweep the floors. Doing this every second day will not only keep your house looking neat, it will also improve the air quality in your home.

5. Invest in coverings:

Invest in a rug if you have carpet or cute blankets if you have light coloured couches. It will make it way easier to manage spills and stains and increase the life of your carpets and couches.

6. Clean up spills immediately: This may seem obvious but cleaning up spills and stains as soon as you can will prevent them from setting and becoming irremovable. Buying a stain remover or spot cleaner can be a lifesaver if you have carpet or light coloured furnishes. 

“If you have hardwood floors, it is super important to take care and clean up liquid spill as soon as possible” says the flooring experts from Quality Timber Flooring, “Leaving liquid on wood for too long can lead to mould, discolouration, warping and rot”.

7. Air out your space:

Before you begin cleaning, open up every door and window in your home. It will help any dust to escape and keep you cool while you clean. You will be surprised how much energy simply opening a window will give you.

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8. Clean kitchen appliances regularly :

Give your microwave and oven a quick wipe down after every use with a wet towel to minimise grime build up. The longer you leave it, the harder it will be to clean, so doing little bits at a time will make your job so much easier.

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9. Dust often:

Oftentimes we can forget that dusting is so important. Dusting will make your home look nicer and will ensure your appliances function properly and don’t overheat. Dusting also helps to reduce the amount of dust in the air which can be harmful when inhaled.

10. Use Vinegar

With the multitude of fancy cleaning products on the market these days it can be easy to forget that vinegar is one of the most powerful cleaning agents and it’s cheap and natural!  “Vinegar can be used virtually anywhere in your home and will leave a beautiful shine on anything you use it on” says environmentalist company Buy Ecowise , “It is a great eco-friendly option that doesn’t have the nasty chemicals a lot of products do”.

source https://australiaguides.blog/2022/02/01/10-simple-steps-to-clean-your-home/