Lifestyle

4 Fun Summer Activities Your Whole Family Will Enjoy

Published

1 year ago

June 14, 2022

Summer is right around the corner and that means spending quality time with friends and family. Whether you already have some traditions in place or you’re looking for new ideas, here’s a list of several adventures and activities you may want to try this summer.

Water sports

When was the last time you and your family headed out on the water for a day of wakeboarding, water skiing, or tubing? Make this summer your time to explore some watersports.

When you already have a boat, it’s pretty affordable to get your own water sports equipment and try new things. For instance, you may want to explore stand-up paddleboards or kneeboards. You could also get a new innertube for towing multiple people at once.

Don’t have a boat? No problem. There are many locations where you can rent a boat and the type of water sports equipment you’d like to try. Look around online and find a place that rents equipment for boating. If they don’t have what you need, ask for a reference.

If you’re feeling adventurous and don’t have younger kids, you might want to head out to a spot where you can learn to kitesurf.

Whatever water adventure you choose, make sure everyone is wearing a life vest, even your pets, and take a basic water safety course if you haven’t already.

Backyard giant toss games

Have you ever seen those giant bean bags, horseshoes, or discs designed to be thrown across the yard? Each game is a little different, but these types of games are fun for the whole family, even little ones.

One of the best games is bean bag tic-tac-toe. With this game, you have to toss a giant bean bag onto a giant tic-tac-toe game board in the right spot. It’s a fun twist on a simple game.

There are tons of other backyard toss games you can play with your family, including lawn darts (the safe version of the game), horseshoes (plastic or bean bag style for younger kids), and disc golf.

Croquet

Croquet is a somewhat involved game to play, but the act of playing is simple enough that it might be of interest to kids, even if they don’t understand the details. Otherwise, croquet is an excellent game to play with friends, a spouse, or older children.

The goal in a game of croquet is to make both of your balls hit a peg after hitting them through a series of hoops in a specific order. For instance, there are five hoops that are all facing different yet specific directions. Each ball has to go through each hoop two times in a specific order.

Then, each ball has to move backward through each hoop in the opposite order, at which point the objective becomes to hit a peg. When a ball hits the peg, it’s removed from the game, and the first person to hit the peg with both balls wins.

Here are the basic rules for playing croquet and a video showing the gameplay if you’re not familiar. It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s relaxed enough that it can be enjoyed by a group of friends.

A slip ‘n slide

You can’t have a fun summer without a slip ‘n slide in the backyard! Even when it’s not that hot out, it’s a fun way to pass the time.

There are so many different styles to choose from today, from simple tarp-like slides to slides with a pool at one end. Some slip ‘n slides are even padded and come with inflatable kickboards to make the ride a little more enjoyable.

On really hot days, the best slip ‘n slides are the ones that spray water everywhere and cool you down from every direction.

Enjoy this summer with new activities

Don’t let this summer be stale and boring. Bring your friends and family together to enjoy each other’s company with some new activities. Make this summer fun, whether you set up some games in your backyard, go out on the water, or just hang out in the house and talk.

What’s most important is that you spend time with the people you love.

Lifestyle

Hardwood Floors Refinishing: Top Care Tips for a Lasting Shine

Published

2 days ago

September 27, 2023

Michelle Langton

Revamping your hardwood floors requires both a time and financial investment, yet the returns are evident in the enhanced aesthetics and functionality of your residential or commercial area. However, the longevity and durability of these newly refinished floors are contingent upon proper maintenance. This detailed guide is designed to offer expert guidance on how to preserve the quality and look of your newly refinished hardwood floors. We’ll cover a variety of subjects, from the science of wood aging and types of wood that need more frequent treatment, to top tips for floor upkeep. Your investment in hardwood floor refinishing need not be short-lived; with the correct care, it can be a long-term enhancement to your property.

Tips for Ensuring Durability in Your Newly Refinished Floors

After you have spent money on hardwood floor refinishing, maintaining their condition becomes a top priority. Here are strategies to prolong the lifespan and appearance of your updated flooring.

1. Regular Cleaning

A clean floor is a happy floor. Use a microfiber mop or cloth to pick up dust, dirt, and grime daily if possible. For a deeper clean, opt for cleaning products specifically designed for hardwood floors. Make sure to read the labels and opt for pH-neutral cleaners that are free from abrasives or harsh chemicals. Weekly or bi-weekly, consider a gentle vacuuming with a hardwood-friendly vacuum cleaner to remove debris that may have settled between the wood planks.

2. Use Protective Pads

One of the most effective ways to prevent scratches and dents on your hardwood floors is to place felt pads under the legs of furniture. This simple step can go a long way in preserving the smooth finish of your floor. You should also replace these pads every few months, as they can wear down or accumulate grime, reducing their effectiveness.

3. Control Humidity

Fluctuating indoor humidity levels can wreak havoc on hardwood floors. Excessive moisture can cause the wood to swell, leading to issues like cupping or buckling, while too little moisture can cause wood to shrink, leading to gaps between planks. Invest in a quality hygrometer to measure your home’s humidity level, and aim to keep it between 30% and 50%. Use a humidifier during dry months and a dehumidifier during humid months to maintain optimal conditions.

4. Proper Spill Management

Accidents are inevitable, but the way you handle them can make all the difference. Whether it’s water, juice, or wine, if you spill liquid on your hardwood floor, wipe it up immediately with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Avoid using paper towels as they can disintegrate and get stuck in the crevices of the wood. Also, never let liquids sit on the wood, as they can seep in and cause staining or warping.

5. No Shoes Policy

Implement a ‘no shoes’ policy to preserve your floors. Shoes can bring in dirt, gravel, and other harmful debris from outside. If a full-blown ‘no shoes’ policy isn’t realistic for your household, at least insist on no high heels or sports cleats, which can cause dents and scratches. You might also consider placing a high-quality doormat at entrances to trap dirt before it gets to your floor.

6. Regular Inspections

Every three to six months, set aside time to inspect your hardwood floors meticulously. Use natural light or a bright lamp to look for scratches, dents, or areas where the finish might be wearing off. If you catch these issues early, you may be able to address them with a simple touch-up rather than a full refinishing job.

7. Refresher Coats

Although your newly refinished floors look amazing now, they won’t stay that way forever without some upkeep. Consider applying a ‘refresher’ coat of finish every two to three years. This isn’t as invasive or time-consuming as a full refinishing project. Instead, it’s more like a topcoat that adds an extra layer of protection, keeping your floors looking vibrant and shiny.

8. Scheduled Expert Cleaning

A yearly cleaning session by professionals can dramatically enhance the condition of your hardwood floors. Specialized machinery and products are used to eliminate tough dirt, renew the wood’s natural shine, and smooth out minor imperfections. This process not only rejuvenates your flooring but also prolongs its lifespan, maintaining its fresh appearance for an extended time.

Advantages of Consistent Upkeep

Routine care for your restored hardwood floors does more than maintain their visual appeal; it also prolongs their durability, augmenting the long-term value of your property. Floors that are regularly cared for can endure for many years, negating the need for frequent, costly refinishing. In addition, a structured care regimen lessens the likelihood that small defects will escalate into serious issues, thus promoting a cleaner and more healthful living area. In summary, regular maintenance serves as a long-term financial benefit and a means of sustaining your home’s elegance.

When To Seek Professional Help

If you notice persistent issues like deep scratches, stubborn stains, or any form of water damage, it’s best to seek professional help. Specialists in hardwood floors refinishing can assess the situation and provide targeted solutions. Companies like 1DayRefinishing offer an extensive range of services that can effectively address these problems. Notably, the company specializes in a one-day turnaround, making them a convenient option for those in need of quick yet high-quality refinishing solutions.

Finding Trustworthy Services for Floor Refinishing

If you’re in a location with scarce local options, consider exploring 1 DAY Refinishing. Their seasoned experts offer complete solutions for maintaining and refinishing hardwood floors, helping to keep them pristine for the long haul.

Final Thoughts

The decision to invest in refinishing your hardwood floors is a significant commitment to enhancing your home’s aesthetics and overall value. By diligently following proper maintenance routines, your refinished floors can continue to elevate your home’s ambience. Every effort, from regular cleaning, to hiring professionals, adds to the resilience and visual allure of your hardwood floors. Stick to these essential care guidelines, and your floors will maintain their lustre for an extended period.