Lifestyle

Make the Most of Your Small Space Before Your Open House

Published

2 years ago

September 16, 2021

More people want to live smaller and more efficiently. Tiny homes have become increasingly popular as households look to alleviate the added stress of simply having too much “stuff.”

As a happy byproduct, most people who live in smaller spaces end up with no credit card debt. They also leave a smaller carbon footprint on the environment.

If you are in the market to sell your house, you might need to rethink some of your design ideas as you prepare for an open house. Real estate agents will occasionally hire a professional staging company to rearrange the space, place temporary new furniture, and remove the bulkier pieces altogether.

But if you decide to sell your house on your own, there are ways you can make your space more efficient as well as appealing to the eyes of potential buyers. We’ve gathered six tips to help you out.

Avoid Dark Colors on the Wall

If at all possible, avoid using dark colors on the walls. This can dull the room and reduce the effects of any natural light the space might otherwise have. If you feel compelled to go a shade or two darker when you paint, try doing only a single wall to use as an accent.

Brighten Up Your Home

Light can do wonders for enhancing the apparent size of your apartment or house. Yes, you will be playing a trick on the eyes to make rooms appear bigger than they actually are.

The illusion is best executed by hanging mirrors throughout the space. Use of an oversized mirror that reflects natural light from a window, for example, can create a sensation of air, of breath, even a touch of the grandiose in the smallest of spaces.

Use Less Bulky Furniture

One of the main reasons that small spaces feel even smaller than they are is when they’re overcrowded with furniture. Many of us tend to utilize bigger and bulkier pieces, such as bed frames that include dresser drawers to help with extra storage.

Bigger pieces tend to make a room feel more congested, though.

There is nothing wrong with doing a little de-cluttering to simplify your life and your space for yourself. Take a look around your house and see which pieces are largely serving as decorative rather than functional.

Then go shopping for items that are slimmer but may also be more appropriate for your on-site storage needs.

Don’t Forget About the Bathroom

If you’re operating in a small house or apartment, you probably also have a diminutive bathroom. One trick to make the space seem larger is to hang a clear shower curtain instead of one with a pattern.

Don’t be tempted to buy a cheap one that develops a film after only a few showers, however. Spend a little extra to purchase a high-quality liner instead. That investment will go a long way.

Get Creative with Storage

This might seem counterintuitive to what we said earlier about getting creative with storage, but it can be done without overstuffing any room of the house. A headboard that adds extra shelves, for instance, is a great option that can serve as a bookshelf or replace a nightstand.

Multi-tiered shelving that can be placed under the kitchen and bathroom sinks allows more storage in-house rather than shifting out. Plus, it will keep your cleaning products organized so you’ll be able to find things faster.

One of the best hacks is to use floating shelves. They are a great replacement for nightstands or bookshelves for removing unwanted clutter from the floor. This again boosts the sense of less clutter.

Choose Your Rugs and Drapes Wisely

Both rugs and drapes as home decor can shrink the ostensible size of a room, but you can be tactical about which drapes and rugs you choose. Drapes can actually encourage your gaze upward toward the source of light, and that makes a room feel more spacious. White, sheer curtains are a subtle and airy way to draw attention back to the light.

The same applies to rugs. In a small space, avoid using too many small ones. Try to place one large rug instead, because the size of the rug can influence the apparent size of the space.

No matter how small your home might be, there’s always a way to make the space feel less claustrophobic before an open house. You just have to get creative!

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.