<span class="hide-blog-title">The Inspector</span>By NPI, Inc.https://npiweb.com/Blog/PostsPainting Perspectives: How to Pick the Right Shade of White For Your Homehttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1532/painting-perspectives-how-to-pick-the-right-shade-of-white-for-your-homeDIY,Home DecorMon, 21 Aug 2023 20:44:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">PAINTING PERSPECTIVES: HOW TO PICK THE RIGHT SHADE OF WHITE FOR YOUR HOME</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> August 21, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/painting">painting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/lighting">lighting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/walls">walls</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/ceiling">ceiling</a></p> <p>Moving into a new home or giving a home new life through a renovation is very exciting! Understandably, new homeowners waste little time in finding ways to make their spaces feel like theirs - a visual nod confirming they’ve embarked on a new chapter in life. Over time, homes tend to naturally take on the personality of the people who live in them, but the best way to kick off this identity on the right foot is with a fresh coat of paint.</p> <p>Of all the creative, bold, and eye-catching options out there, some might wonder why people so often end up just going with white. For starters, white has remarkable staying power and versatility! White is closely tied to modern aesthetics, but it also fits well with classic architectural styles. Homeowners who would rather not overly experiment with their paint choices don’t have to worry about their white walls going out of style in a couple years. Plus, (depending on the shade) white can be used to emphasize virtually any furniture layout or interior design concept.</p> <p>Painting your home white is a fantastic choice, but with over 350 different shades of white available on <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Paint-Ideas/white/00" target="_blank">Home Depot's website</a> today, navigating the right choice for your home can be intimidating. To help you navigate your next home or room makeover, here’s a few tips for selecting the right option!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Wait, There’s More Than One White?</span><br /> That’s right! For those that haven’t attempted to weave through the seemingly endless options of hues and shades of white paint out there yet, there are indeed many different kinds of white paint. White can be warm or it can be cool, and it can be glossy or flat. Different shades work better in different situations, and even those that think they’re color-illiterate will be able to tell very quickly that they’ve entered a room with some clashing shades.</p> <p>The key to understanding the different shades of white paint is to look at undertones and finishes. “Cooler” whites have undertones of cool colors (like blue, purple, or green). Likewise, “warm” whites carry shades of warm colors (such as red, orange, yellow, or pink). A paint’s finish, meanwhile, refers to the level at which it reflects light. Glossy finishes reflect the most light, matte (or flat) finishes reflect the least amount of light, and finishes like eggshell or silk sit somewhere in the middle. In short, different combinations of these features are what leads to so many different shades of white - but it is to the homeowner’s benefit! Depending on taste and context, some whites are much better suited for the situation.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Take Context Into Consideration</span><br /> Ultimately, a white paint might seem nice in concept, but a strong shade that succeeds in one home might not do the job in another. This is all because of that context. Starting with natural light, rooms that lack windows or other access to light will generally not work very well with cooler shades of white. In these areas cooler whites often become too exaggerated, pulling seemingly further towards its blue or green shades than intended, and warm whites in areas with a lot of natural light can start to appear yellow.</p> <p>Regarding finishes, flat and matte finishes can perform better in heavily-trafficked rooms (especially in homes with rowdy kids or pets) since they can be touched up so easily. This doesn’t mean that glossier finishes should be off limits, of course! It’s just best to apply them to areas where they are less prone to scuffs or dings. Your paint will ultimately need to match well with your furniture and the overall feel you’re planning with your home. Again, while these rules work in concept, the best thing to make the right choice is to try your favorite shades in person.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Make Comparisons To A Constant</span><br /> Once it is determined whether a warmer or cooler white is needed, homeowners should grab a sheet of plain white printer paper and head to the store (the paper makes determining shade much easier). No one wants to repaint a room, so grabbing more options to test than necessary is better than grabbing too few.</p> <p>After having your options in hand, test them in the spot where you plan on painting. Hang your swatches, or paint your walls and ceilings then watch how they look in the morning, during the day, and at night. Warm, cool, glossy, flat - if your shade of white doesn’t work for you, then none of that matters in the end. Ultimately, just pick the shade that seems to fit your home the best and, if white isn’t doing the trick, there are other options.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Make Comparisons To A Constant</span><br /> Once it is determined whether a warmer or cooler white is needed, homeowners should grab a sheet of plain white printer paper and head to the store (the paper makes determining shade much easier). No one wants to repaint a room, so grabbing more options to test than necessary is better than grabbing too few.</p> <p>After having your options in hand, test them in the spot where you plan on painting. Hang your swatches, or paint your walls and ceilings then watch how they look in the morning, during the day, and at night. Warm, cool, glossy, flat - if your shade of white doesn’t work for you, then none of that matters in the end. Ultimately, just pick the shade that seems to fit your home the best and, if white isn’t doing the trick, there are other options.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">On Second Thought…Maybe Don’t Pick White</span><br /> One of the biggest reasons why people love white so much is that it can go with anything…until it doesn’t. When white isn’t doing the trick, there are tons of other more neutral shades that make great paint choices. From tan to taupe and gray to greige, there are many colors that can effectively brighten your kitchen, bedroom, or living spaces while featuring your furnishings well. And hey, if paint isn’t doing it for you, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/wallpaper-sticking-around-home-design-in-2021">wallpaper is coming back</a> into style in a big way! So, what are you waiting for?</p> <p><em>For more tips on interior design trends and home living hacks, stick right here on NPI’s <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog">home blog</a>! To schedule your annual home maintenance inspection, contact <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">your local NPI property expert</a> today.</em></p> 1532Renter-Friendly Interior Design Hacks: How to Make Your Rental Feel Like Homehttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1517/renter-friendly-interior-design-hacks-how-to-make-your-rental-feel-like-homeDIY,Home DecorMon, 14 Aug 2023 18:05:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">RENTER-FRIENDLY INTERIOR DESIGN HACKS: HOW TO MAKE YOUR RENTAL FEEL LIKE HOME</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> August 14, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kitchen">kitchen</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/floors">floors</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/walls">walls</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/lighting">lighting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/painting">painting</a></p> <p>We’ve seen people make their homes in all sorts of unique and strange places. From trendy <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/tiny-homes-a-forgotten-fad-or-a-major-movement">tiny homes</a> to flat-out bizarre <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/passive-aggressive-architecture-the-odd-phenomenon-of-spite-houses">spite houses</a>, homeowners seem to have tons of freedom to personalize their spaces into something that is totally unique to them. Owning a home comes with plenty of work, but this ability to remodel, redesign, and remake is one of the things that makes homeownership such a sought-after goal.</p> <p>With that in mind, it’s easy to see why renting can be frustrating. Too many apartments lack character, and many tenants find themselves living in drab, cookie-cutter flats of uninspired architecture. Finding ways to tailor these spaces into something that feels a little more “homey” without making any permanent changes can be tough. The good news is, creative renters have found ways to have fun with decor, even while keeping to their lease agreements. To make your rental yours, here are some transformative, renter-friendly interior design tips.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Hang Some Temporary Wallpaper</span><br /> The first step to truly transform the overall look and feel of a room is to figure out what to do with the walls. Landlords tend to prefer keeping their walls in shades that are inoffensive to avoid turning away tenants, but this also leads to thousands upon thousands of neutral off-whites to choose between. In units that do not allow painting, removable wallpaper is a fabulous answer for this common issue.</p> <p>There are so many designs and styles of wallpaper available that come designed for easy application (and easy removal for renters). Just remember to clean the walls thoroughly and always hang wallpaper from top to bottom for a smooth application process. You’ll be shocked how much this simple step alone will make your rental feel yours.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Paint When Possible!</span><br /> Alternatively, some landlords can be shockingly amiable when it comes to paint (usually with the caveat that you repaint everything back to its original color when moving out). Painting a room can seem like a big undertaking, but a weekend’s worth of work might be the most impactful change that you can make on your space’s overall appearance. Even re-painting your walls the same color will make your rental feel fresher and cleaner.</p> <p>If painting isn’t listed as an option, try asking about adding just an accent wall. Painting only certain areas can create a sense of separation in rentals where space is limited, and the original wall color is still there for comparison when repainting later on. Check out <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.thespruce.com/accent-walls-tips-essential-dos-donts-797861" target="_blank">this article</a> from interior design experts at The Spruce to learn more about accent walls! Don’t take a landlord’s allowance for paint for granted.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Invest in Your Own Tile and Backsplash</span><br /> Flooring is one area where renters can feel limited in their options. Again, landlords tend to choose more conservative, muted flooring options to not scare away the average renter. This naturally leads to uninspired, tired floors that can drag down an otherwise satisfying floor plan. What most renters don’t realize is that rugs aren’t their only option.</p> <p>Peel-and-stick tile flooring can be laid right on top of any existing flooring, and there are plenty of more affordable options that add color and style to rental properties. Likewise, temporary backsplashes are an underrated kitchen upgrade worth exploring. When stuck with something that doesn’t quite resonate with your style choices, cover it up with something that does!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Replace Your Hardware With Something Distinct</span><br /> For this next move, all you need is a screwdriver and a place to store the old fixtures. Doorknobs, cabinet handles, and power outlets can all be easily exchanged for new options of your choice. Even lights and faucets could be switched out with the right know-how (though proceed with caution). Although some of these purchases can get pricey, the great thing is that all of these items can be packed up and reused at your next home.</p> <p>As an extra note, electrical replacements can involve interacting with exposed wiring in some situations. Always err on the side of caution in these situations, and refer to the advice of an experienced electrician when possible. Lamps and adhesive, stick-on lights can do the trick of adding stylish lighting that these more direct replacements might have done.</p> <p><em>Ready to make the move from renter to homeowner? It’s best to be informed before making a big purchase. Always be sure to order a home inspection with every home purchase - <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">call NPI</a> before you buy.</em></p> 1517Interior Design Tips: Finding Your Home’s Feng Shuihttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1514/interior-design-tips-finding-your-homes-feng-shuiHome Decor,Just for FunMon, 24 Jul 2023 17:54:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">INTERIOR DESIGN TIPS: FINDING YOUR HOME'S FENG SHUI</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> July 24, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/living-room">living room</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kitchen">kitchen</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/office">office</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/lighting">lighting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/painting">painting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/organization">organization</a></p> <p>Homeowners put so much thought into their home’s interior design, whether they go for French curls and filigree or Mid-Century modern. If you’re a serial redesigner yourself, you feel frustrated when a space just isn’t quite coming together like you’d hoped. Maybe it’s something about the color of the walls, or the lack of natural light, or maybe you can’t quite put your finger on it. Rather than grabbing a paint roller for yet another new coat, maybe it’s time to look at your home from a completely new angle.</p> <p>Many have heard of feng shui in association with interior design as a concept, but most are unaware of the positive effect that it can have on their home. Let’s take a look at the origin of this term and how its concepts can be used to finally make a home come together.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What is Feng Shui?</span><br /> Feng shui is an ancient term with roots in Taoism which can loosely be translated as “wind and water.” As this translation might suggest, feng shui teaches that people are directly impacted by their environment, and this environment should be intentionally designed to not disrupt life’s “flow.” There may be some debate as to the authenticity of feng shui’s mystic nature, but its overall principles tend to make a home feel more focused, relationship-oriented, and career-friendly.</p> <p>Applying feng shui’s laws to a room starts with learning its five elements: wood, fire, earth, water, and metal. Each element governs a sector of life such as family, career, or fame, and each is closely associated with a color that encourages success in these areas. Another facet of feng shui is known as the Bagua, which translates to the “eight areas.” In interior design, feng shui experts recommend translating the Bagua directly onto the floorplan of a home or apartment in order to dictate how the space is organized, but this practice may be too limiting for some.</p> <p>One of the most important concepts of feng shui (and probably the one most easily applied to an existing design) is the “Commanding Position.” This term is used in reference to the space within a room where the most time is spent. For the living room, this might be a sofa, or it might be a favorite chair. Once this area is determined, the room should be rearranged so that this Commanding Position is in the farthest point away from the door and at an angle.</p> <p><em>Note: While the Commanding Position should have sight of the door (without obstructions), it should not face the door directly! To learn more about the Bagua, or other elements of feng shui, check out this great overview by certified feng shui consultant Anjie Cho over at <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.thespruce.com/your-feng-shui-bagua-guide-1275056" target="_blank">thespruce.com</a>.</em></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Using Feng Shui in the Living Room</span><br /> Within the living room, there are many ways to apply feng shui principles to create a new look. As previously mentioned, starting with the Commanding Position makes sense, so push that favorite lounger or loveseat away from the door and against the wall! From there, reorient the room for comfort and to encourage conversation. Support this design philosophy by making sure each seat has its own table or surface, and ensuring that no one would be too separated from the action.</p> <p>Living rooms are all about family and friends, which can be reinforced with earthy tones or blues and greens. Bringing additional plants or other greenery indoors will also be a plus, though it is important not to become too cluttered! The best interior designs that use feng shui are actually minimalist by necessity, since unused or broken items create a chaotic atmosphere that disrupts the natural flow of life. In short, you’re running out of excuses to not clean out that junk drawer.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Using Feng Shui in the Home Office</span><br /> In the home office, the desk is the natural choice for the Commanding Position, but complimentary colors are likely different than they’d be in the living room. The office is a space largely dedicated to career efforts, meaning dark blues and blacks are strong choices to incorporate into the space, and mirrors should be used strategically to contribute to focus and productivity (watch what mirrors reflect when seated at your desk).</p> <p>Other colors that are said to focus the mind are yellows, greens, and blues. Again, bringing in an office plant isn’t a bad idea as getting closer to nature reinforces many positive principles in feng shui, and reducing clutter within the home office may be more important than any other space in the house. For more ideas on how to make your home office your dream work space, check out <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/5-traits-that-make-the-perfect-home-office">these quick tips</a>!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Using Feng Shui in the Bedroom</span><br /> Finally, the bedroom is perhaps the most important space in the home when considering feng shui principles. That’s because the bed represents the self. Start by placing the bed in the commanding position of the room, then ideally place nightstands on either side with matching lamps. Headboards are also said to be important in establishing a secure zone surrounding the bed. Rounded corners, symmetry, and minimalism are central ideas for a bedroom that is fully in line with feng shui ideas.</p> <p>An additional important point is to ensure that the bedroom is completely lit, since dark corners are said to suggest that there are neglected areas within the person’s life. Regarding clutter, storage beneath the bed is particularly frowned upon and should be avoided as well, as it suggests a lack of resolution. Implementing a few of these ideas into your home design could be the breath of fresh air that you’ve been missing, or at least another opportunity for an interior redesign.</p> <p><em>How is your home’s feng shui? Follow us on <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.facebook.com/npifranchise/" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and let us know! Did you <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/did-you-skip-your-buyers-inspection">skip your buyer's inspection</a>? Call your <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">local NPI inspector</a> to schedule a post-purchase inspection today!</em></p> 15145 Traits That Make The Perfect Home Officehttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1477/5-traits-that-make-the-perfect-home-officeCleaning Tips,DIY,Home DecorMon, 27 Mar 2023 18:39:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">5 TRAITS THAT MAKE THE PERFECT HOME OFFICE</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> March 27, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=cleaning-tips">Cleaning Tips</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/office">office</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/lighting">lighting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/painting">painting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/organization">organization</a></p> <p>A major benefit from the recent changes to the modern workplace has been the newfound flexibility in where people can do their work. Whether that means spending time at the office or remoting in from a coffee shop across the country, learning how to maximize productivity while capitalizing on opportunities this freedom affords has been an ongoing process for employers and workers alike.</p> <p>Home offices are coming back into style in a big way, as remote or hybrid workers have searched for ways to increase their at-home productivity. If you are looking to adapt a room in your home to improve your remote working conditions or you’re interested in a revamp of your current workspace, here are a few traits that will make your home office first-class!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">1. Select the Right Space</span><br /> The first and most important aspect you must consider when setting up your home office is the location. Homes are full of distractions, especially if there are kids running around. Ideally, locate an area that is separated from the majority of natural traffic and noise so that you have the opportunity to focus on your work. Additionally, do what you can to separate yourself from home leisure items as much as possible. Television, instruments, or speakers have the potential to divert your focus and drain away productive hours.</p> <p>Attics and basements tend to create an element of mental separation that lends well towards “resetting” minds from at-home relaxation-mode into work-mode. Considering the mounting evidence of the positive impact people receive from natural lighting (as expert office designers at New Day Office <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.newdayoffice.com/about-new-day-office" target="_blank">report</a>), make rooms with windows a priority. If the option is available, a roomy attic space with a view is ideal!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">2. Find the Right Furniture</span><br /> With your location sorted, the next most vital aspect of your home office is your furniture, namely your chair. There are many great DIY options that homeowners can look at for saving money during room makeovers. However, considering the amount of time spent in it, your office chair is one accessory worth a little extra investment.</p> <p>After selecting a nice, ergonomic seat, you have the freedom to get creative with your office depending on the amount of space you’re working with. Couches and extra seating can be beneficial if you anticipate occasional in-person meetings, and lounging spaces may come into use when stumped on a particular subject.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">3. Make Technology Your Friend</span><br /> These days, conducting business in a professional and timely manner is impossible without a reliable computer and a stable internet connection. If working at home is a new prospect, you may need to take stock of your current internet speeds and potentially upgrade to a higher speed plan with your provider. Directly plug your desktop into your router to keep costly disconnects during meetings and calls to a minimum.</p> <p>For offices that lack direct access to sunlight, consider how you will keep your space well lit. Softer lights are best for sensitive eyes and should look the most natural through a computer camera. With your technical accessories set up, take the time to properly arrange your cords. Unsightly tangles can be a distraction, either directly or subconsciously.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">4. Decorate to Match Your Goals</span><br /> Finally, it’s time to make your home office truly your own! When decorating your workspace, take the time to think through your goals. While concentration is important for a productive space, certain jobs also benefit from creatively inspiring surroundings.</p> <p>If you are looking for an office space that eliminates all distractions and allows you to maximize your focus, paint your walls neutral colors and apply a minimalist philosophy to your decorations. Alternatively, if maximizing endurance and sustaining through long hours is a concern, prioritize comforting soft color palettes on your walls and add pictures of friends, family, or pets.</p> <p>Remember to take advantage of vertical spaces through shelving units if space is at a premium as well! Plants (even fake ones) can have a positive psychological impact throughout the workday, and even small points of greenery can have a surprising impact on your room as a whole.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">5. Keep Your Space Organized</span><br /> Perfect home offices don’t stay perfect without the appropriate effort and careful planning. To keep your home office clean and organized, make sure that every regularly used item has a dedicated space where you retrieve and replace it. Workplaces can become cluttered very easily and a chaotic atmosphere will build unnecessary stress. A regular routine of cleanliness and organization should always be a priority.</p> <p>For your keyboards, keep a compressed air can on hand so that dust and debris doesn’t pile up between the keys. Also when selecting a trash can, be sure to pick one with a cover. Remember, clutter and garbage can be another unwanted distraction! Garbage can covers will help take these things out of mind.</p> <p>Home offices are a great place for homeowners to express their creativity! By understanding your own needs and tendencies, your home office can become a productive space that even surpasses what can be accomplished in a traditional work setting.</p> <p><em>Small home maintenance issues can grow into shocking distractions! To cut down on these unwanted expenses, contact National Property Inspections and <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">schedule</a> your annual home maintenance inspection!</em></p> 1477Easy Decor Tips to “Grow” a Small Roomhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1347/easy-decor-tips-to-grow-a-small-roomDIY,Home DecorMon, 14 Feb 2022 14:35:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">EASY DECOR TIPS TO “GROW” A SMALL ROOM</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> February 14, 2022 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/floors">floors</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/walls">walls</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/windows">windows</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/ceiling">ceiling</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/living-room">living room</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/lighting">lighting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/painting">painting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/organization">organization</a></p> <p>Decorating your home can sometimes require a bit of a magic touch. For those smaller spaces, you may need a bit more magic than normal. Here are some tricks to make that otherwise cramped part of your home grow big!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Go with one color scheme. </span><br /> Picking the right paint combination for your room makes all the difference. When deciding, try to avoid using multiple colors of varying shades. Instead, just stick with two colors of stark contrast like white and a dark blue. The difference in hues will create better depth and give the illusion that the room has more space. Also try to avoid using different patterns and wallpapers, as they have the opposite effect and make it seem smaller.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Limit the amount of clutter. </span><br /> The key to making a room seem like it has a lot of space is to actually keep the floor open. Having multiple pieces of large furniture or even a lot of smaller pieces quickly clutters things up. Try to keep your design simple and only use one or two larger items and a handful of smaller accent pieces. You’ll also need to get creative with your storage space. Using built-in hidden cabinets and drawers will give you that extra storage and keep from cluttering your room.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Utilize your wall space. </span><br /> While you don’t want to go overboard with decorating your walls, some well-placed items can help. Mirrors are another way to create that depth illusion and can bring in more natural light to the room. A few art pieces will also move the walls further back and open things up. Again, it’s important to not go overboard and hang so much that you take up all the wall space you have.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Push things higher. </span><br /> Extra headroom can really make a space seem bigger than it is. Low-hanging light fixtures and ceiling fans bring your ceiling down and may make it a nuisance to navigate for taller guests. Look into recessed lighting to eliminate bulky fixtures, but still keep enough light to highlight the room. Or, simply use one eye-catching fixture in the center to tie it all together.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Let your windows shine through. </span><br /> Natural light is perhaps the best “trick” you can use to make a room bigger. Use it to your advantage by keeping your windows open and unobstructed. When you want to block out the sun a bit, opt for drapes that are floor-length. They’ll help frame your window and look great. A subtle design and color shade will draw attention to them and give the space some more personality.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Go for smaller electronics. </span><br /> As you finish your decorating, you may notice that you won’t be able to fit everything you want. That big flat screen may be fun to watch, but it’ll eat up a lot of your available wall space. Going for a smaller model will let you see the big game while also not cramping things. Consider mounting it on the wall to eliminate the need for an entertainment center. Once you’ve got it up, your magic act is complete!</p> <p> </p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Call National Property Inspections today. </span><br /> Your local NPI inspector has the professional training and experience to help assess the condition of your home’s structure and major systems. <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">Find your inspector</a> today to schedule your pre-listing or homebuyer’s inspection.</p> 1347Using Circadian Lighting to Help Your Mental and Physical Healthhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1211/using-circadian-lighting-to-help-your-mental-and-physical-healthHome Decor,Home MaintenanceMon, 15 Mar 2021 15:11:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">USING CIRCADIAN LIGHTING TO HELP YOUR MENTAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH </span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> March 15, 2021 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/bedroom">bedroom</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/living-room">living room</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/electrical">electrical</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/lighting">lighting</a></p> <p>Natural lighting in your home provides numerous benefits for your well-being. It gives you crucial Vitamin D, helps ward off seasonal affective disorder (SAD), reduces stress, and much more. Natural light also ties in to your sleep schedule and how well you fall and stay asleep. If you aren’t getting enough light in your home, you might be able to artificially substitute it.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Circadian Rhythms </span><br /> You may have heard about a circadian rhythm before, but if you haven’t or aren’t quite sure what it is, here’s a quick rundown: A circadian rhythm is essentially your body’s internal clock that carries out different functions during a 24-hour period. The most commonly discussed rhythm is the one that controls your sleep-wake cycle. Your body uses cues such as the intensity of daylight to know when it needs to energize you or when it needs to begin the sleep process. It's important to maintain a consistent cycle, or else you can experience conditions like insomnia. The production of melatonin, a key “sleep ingredient,” can be hindered if your body’s rhythm becomes disrupted.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">How Rhythms Get Interrupted </span><br /> Now that you’re more familiar with your circadian rhythms’ various purposes, you need to identify what could be causing you to toss and turn, then wake up groggy in the morning. Each person is different, so what’s causing your problems is likely a combination of factors that’s unique to you. The most common are: </p> <p>- Medication<br /> - Low exposure to daylight<br /> - Caffeine or alcohol prior to bed<br /> - Uncomfortable room temperature<br /> - Smoking </p> <p><em>While a change in lighting and pre-bedtime habits can help, don’t make any drastic lifestyle changes without consulting a medical professional.</em></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Change Your Lights to Improve Your Life </span><br /> Swapping out old lighting fixtures in your home for adjustable ones can keep your rhythm on track and help you get that good night’s rest. Your body needs the combination of blue and warm lighting to know when it has to be alert and when to start slowing down. Only having one will make it hard for your body to balance the production of melatonin and cortisol (the hormone that wakes you up). Circadian lighting is programmed to shift between hues and intensity based on the time of day. Things like sunrise clocks gradually shine light in your room to make it feel like you’re waking up to the sun, replacing that annoying alarm. If you live in a part of the world that experiences long, gray winters, you can still have that sunny summer wake-up call.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Shading and Space Planning </span><br /> In addition to smarter lighting, incorporating smarter blinds and shades, along with an optimized floorplan can further aid your circadian rhythm. Programmable shades with sunrise lighting give the effect of morning sunshine and allow you to wake up more gradually. These shades can also be adjusted during the daytime to get you the maximum amount of sunlight. Arranging your home to the sun’s path through the day helps as well. If you’re still working from home, putting your office in a sunny spot will increase your productivity and focus. You’ll also reduce the headaches and eyestrain that come from staring at a monitor for long hours. </p> <p>Proper sleep plays a big role in your mental and physical health. Cells repair themselves, it alleviates stress, you’re more focused, and so much more. But if your circadian rhythm is thrown off by a lack of sunlight, it can be hard to get any shut-eye. Using adjustable lighting in different rooms can supplement the sun’s rays that a body needs. Try these tips in your own home!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Call National Property Inspections today to schedule your inspection. </span><br /> Our inspectors have the expertise to access all of your home’s major systems. <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">Find an inspector near you</a> today to order an inspection and receive your full report.</p> 121110 Ways to Keep Your Calm in 2021https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/913/10-ways-to-keep-your-calm-in-2021DIY,Holiday,Home Decor,Just for FunMon, 28 Dec 2020 15:33:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">10 WAYS TO KEEP YOUR CALM IN 2021 </span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> December 28, 2020 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/organization">organization</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/lighting">lighting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/painting">painting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/bedroom">bedroom</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/bathroom">bathroom</a></p> <p>To say that 2020 was a stressful year might be an understatement. According to recent studies, almost a third of Americans and Canadians say they experienced high levels of stress during the year. For a more laid-back 2021, try these home design tips to let go of your worries.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">1. Let the light shine in.</span><br /> Dark or dimly-lit spaces in your home can negatively impact your mood. Letting in more sunshine can boost your emotions and help you unwind after a long day. Sunlight is especially important during the shorter days of winter, which can cause Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Plus, Vitamin D is key for your immune system and natural lighting can increase your focus and take the strain off your eyes when reading or looking at screens.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">2. Get your green thumb in gear. </span><br /> Whether they’re fresh, dried or even faux, incorporating plants and flowers in your home can have a calming effect. It’s been found that greenery can significantly lower your stress levels. Their leaves also act as a natural humidifier that enhances your indoor air quality. If you don’t have enough sunny spots, there’s lots of <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/7-houseplants-that-thrive-in-low-light1">plants that will be fine in lower lighting</a>.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">3. Better bedding, better dreams.</span><br /> Your sheets and pillows play a role in how well you fall and stay asleep. 100% cotton with a sateen weave is very popular due to its feel. If you tend to overheat in the night, then a cooling option might be what you need. Depending on your sleeping position, the pillow you lay on dictates how well supported your head is. Side sleepers should go for a thicker pillow and stomach sleepers should go for something thinner, with back sleepers landing in the middle.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">4. Use different scents to de-stress. </span><br /> The sweet smell of your favorite candle or plug-in can be just the thing to slow you down from the day’s hustle. Scents like lemon and cinnamon can jump-start your brain while you’re working, whereas lavender and chamomile will give you a good night’s rest. However, be sure not to go overboard on the aromas. <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/how-to-use-a-candle-6-common-mistakes-to-avoid">Burning candles for long periods of time</a> can be dangerous and certain smells will start to overpower your nose.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">5. Add in water fixtures for a zen feeling. </span><br /> If you love the sound of falling rain or a babbling brook, then a small water feature in your home is what you need. Trickling water can soothe your ears and put you into a more meditative state. Just watching the flow of water can cause you to slow your breathing. Place fixtures in spaces where you normally like to relax to create a more serene environment.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">6. Extra storage to organize your life.</span><br /> Piles of laundry and other clutter can make it feel like you’re trapped in a box. Constructing some extra spots to corral your junk will clear space in your house and your head. You won’t be tripping over everything, and you’ll be able to easily find what you need.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">7. Create your own meditation nook. </span><br /> Whether you like to get lost in a good book or stare out at nature for hours, your own corner will help you escape. Find a place with good natural lighting that’s in a more secluded part of your home. You’ll be able to distance yourself from the regular business of the day and take time for yourself. Decorate your den with meditation pillows, art, photos and anything else that soothes you.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">8. Incorporate more neutral colors into your design. </span><br /> Colors impact our mood in a variety of different ways. Bright yellows can cheer you up and make you think of a sunny summer’s day, while dark grays can seem more serious and emotionless. While it’s good to have a splash of color in your life, too much can be overwhelming. Creams or tans create balance and promote tranquility. Add in simple designs so things won’t be as drab, and you’ll be feeling better in no time.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">9. Surround yourself with scenes of happiness.</span><br /> Reflecting back on happy memories instantly brightens up the day, and seeing reminders of these moments around your house will keep your spirits up. Hang photos of family and friends in each room of your house so you’re never without them. Even putting out small keepsakes from a joy-filled vacation will pick you up after a hard day.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">10. Give yourself the spa treatment. </span><br /> Your bathroom can be another place for you to block the stress of the outside world. Transform your tub into a place for you to wash away your stress. Place some candles around, and get the fluffiest towels that you can find. Some soft lighting and music will get you the most out of your moments of solitude.</p> <p><em><a href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Find your local National Property Inspections inspector</a> today to schedule a full assessment of your home. NPI inspectors have the training, knowledge and expertise to document the condition of your home’s major systems.</em></p> 913Common Electrical Hazards to Watch Forhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/899/common-electrical-hazards-to-watch-forHome Maintenance,SafetyMon, 30 Nov 2020 15:16:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">COMMON ELECTRICAL HAZARDS TO WATCH FOR</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> November 30, 2020 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/electrical">electrical</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/appliances">appliances</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/lighting">lighting</a></p> <p>Your house has hundreds of different components that constantly need to be monitored and serviced. From your HVAC to your dishwasher, it can be hard to stay on top of everything. The electrical system in your home is just one of these many pieces that could end up costing you if left unchecked. </p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Loose Outlets</span><br /> A loose wall outlet may seem like a minor annoyance, but it can quickly turn into a serious problem. Years of constantly using an outlet can wear it down, causing whatever you plug into it to slip out. When a plug isn’t secure, it causes the connection to arc in your wall. This then creates a spark that can either shock you or start a fire within your home. The good news is that old outlets can be repaired easily and fairly inexpensively. </p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Cracked or Missing Covers </span><br /> Missing or cracked outlet covers are more than just a cosmetic concern. Pets or young children that get too close can be injured from a powerful shock. An exposed outlet also means that the wiring and box behind aren’t protected, allowing the box to move around freely and sever the surrounding wires. Replacing a cover is another simple repair, and it’s also one to take care of quickly to prevent any safety issues. </p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Power Surges </span><br /> A surge in your home can have several causes, like a lightning strike or even overloading an outlet. Older homes are especially susceptible to power surges if they haven’t been recently updated. While it’s possible to resolve a surging problem yourself, it’s best to get it looked at by a professional. An inspector will check your wiring and any connected devices to come up with the best solution. </p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Flickering or Dim Lights </span><br /> Flickering and dim lights can be a side effect of frequent power surges, but there are other causes to consider, like a loose bulb in a lamp or ceiling light. Check that all your lights are screwed in tightly and that they’re the correct wattage for the fixture. If you’re still experiencing a problem, it could be from frayed or corroded wires. This is another instance where it’s best to call for backup as soon as possible. </p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Overloaded Plugs </span><br /> Trying to get as many electronics as possible hooked to one outlet is a common, but unsafe habit among homeowners. You run the risk of not just ruining your home’s wiring, but also those expensive electronics as well. Although surge protectors and plug adapters can lessen your chances of this happening, you should still take additional steps. Spread out your devices between multiple outlets to evenly distribute their usage and keep your gadgets out of danger. </p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Incorrect Outlets </span><br /> Not all outlets are created equal, and one place that can come into play is your bathroom. Specialized ground-fault circuit interrupters or GFCIs are designed to quickly shut off power to an outlet if something goes wrong, like water getting inside. GFCIs are recommended for bathrooms and kitchens, but should also be used in places where there’s a high chance of water intrusion such as a basement, garage, shed or any exterior outlets. </p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Extreme Usage </span><br /> A high bill at the end of the month can serve as an eye-opener for you to finally upgrade and fix your system. Swap out older fixtures and bulbs for more energy-efficient ones to cut down your usage. While it might be expensive to redo your home’s wiring, it should be at the top of your list if you frequently have issues. Not only will you save money in the long run, you’ll also help protect yourself and your home from an electrical emergency. </p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Make sure your electrical system is safe with an NPI home inspection.</span><br /> Our NPI inspectors have the knowledge and expertise to assess your home’s major systems and provide a full report. <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">Find an inspector near you</a> today to buy or sell with confidence. Check out the infographic below to see what NPI inspectors look for in your electrical systems.</p> <img src="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/NPI_Reference_Disk/Marketing Library/Social Media Marketing/2020/Insights/electrical-01.jpg?ver=2020-05-20-130901-423" width="100%" />8997 Houseplants that Thrive in Low Lighthttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/75/7-houseplants-that-thrive-in-low-lightHome Decor,Just for FunWed, 13 Feb 2019 20:54:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">7 HOUSEPLANTS THAT THRIVE IN LOW LIGHT</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> August 7, 2020 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="/Blog/Posts/Tag/lighting">lighting</a>, <a href="/Blog/Posts/Tag/pets">pets</a>, <a href="/Blog/Posts/Tag/garden">garden</a></p> <p>Just because your home doesn’t have a perfectly sunny spot for plants, doesn’t mean you can’t keep any. Adding greenery to your space is doable no matter how low your lighting is—it’s all about choosing the right plants for the space you have.</p> <p>Make no mistake: having plants is still a responsibility, even with low-key species. You’ll have to put in a little effort to make it work, like watering and rotating plants and keeping the lights on for a certain amount of time each day. If this doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, the good news is that artificial plants have come a long way, and you’ll still be able to enjoy the look if you want to—without the accountability.</p> <p> </p> <p><img src="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/Blog/Article Images/Houseplants/snakeplant new-08.jpg" width="100%" /></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">1. Snake Plant</span><br /> Snake plants have a reputation for being one of the most tolerant species. In fact, you can neglect them for weeks at a time without much visible change or permanent damage (not that we’d recommend doing that). Snake plants survive well in low lighting, only need watered every two to six weeks and they can even improve your home’s indoor air quality by removing toxins.</p> <p> </p> <p><img src="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/Blog/Article Images/Houseplants/ivy-houseplant-e1550090096837.jpg" width="100%" /></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">2. Ivy</span><br /> Like snake plants, ivy is highly forgiving. This no-fuss houseplant can go weeks without any watering. Ivy is also extremely versatile if you’re all about appearances. It comes in a wide variety of looks and can be planted in hanging baskets, used for topiaries or made into centerpieces.</p> <p> </p> <p><img src="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/Blog/Article Images/Houseplants/pothos-houseplant-e1550090165279.jpg" width="100%" /></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">3. Pothos</span><br /> Pothos are undemanding and easy to care for, making them one of the best plants for busy folks or beginners. They’re capable of thriving in a variety of environments, including low light, and they can grow in a vase of water or dry soil. Note, though, that pothos are considered poisonous. While not fatally dangerous, children, dogs and cats could become ill from ingesting even a small amount.</p> <p> </p> <p><img src="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/Blog/Article Images/Houseplants/dieffenbachia-houseplant-e1550090236774.jpg" width="100%" /></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">4. Dieffenbachia</span><br /> Also known as dumb cane plants, Dieffenbachia are eye-catching houseplants with bright, hard-to-miss speckled leaves. Dieffenbachia are highly adaptable, performing best in filtered sunlight with little watering needed. Note that the dumb cane gets its name because when its leaves are chewed or eaten, temporary swelling of the tongue and throat can occur and make speech and breathing difficult. It’s best to keep this plant out of reach of children and pets.</p> <p> </p> <p><img src="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/Blog/Article Images/Houseplants/philodendron-houseplant-e1550090314419.jpg" width="100%" /></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">5. Philodendron</span><br /> Philodendrons are a staple in the houseplant world. Just about every indoor gardening enthusiast has one in their collection. The nice thing about philodendrons is that if you know what to look for, you’ll start to pick up on the fact that they’ll tell you exactly what they need using their leaves. Yellowed leaves mean the plant is getting too much light, whereas long stems with several inches between leaves mean it isn’t getting enough light. Philodendrons need bright, indirect sunlight and a moderate amount of water (just look for wilted leaves to know when it’s time) to flourish.</p> <p> </p> <p><img src="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/Blog/Article Images/Houseplants/anthurium-houseplant-e1550090393348.jpg" width="100%" /></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">6. Anthurium</span><br /> The anthurium plant and its hardy red flowers give you the look of a fresh bouquet, only with staying power. These plants only need to be watered once a week in winter and twice a week in summer, and while they do prefer light, they don’t require direct sunlight. Once you find a great location and a proper watering schedule for the anthurium, it should stay perfectly healthy for years to come.</p> <p> </p> <p><img src="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/Blog/Article Images/Houseplants/rex-begonia-houseplant-e1550090464437.jpg" width="100%" /></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">7. Rex Begonia</span><br /> The first thing people think of when they think of the rex begonia plant is its gorgeous leaves. Though this plant also blooms small flowers, it’s the richly hued, patterned leaves that really steal the show. The rex begonia hates to be overwatered and performs the best in shade. If this sounds like you and your space, this plant will do just fine.</p> <p> </p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Schedule your NPI home inspection today.</span><br /> <a class="color-secondary" href="/Find-an-Inspector" target="_blank">Find an NPI inspector near you</a> to schedule your full home inspection. Our inspectors are professionally trained to identify any issues or needed repairs on thousands of components of your home, including the roof, foundation, electrical system and more.</p> 758 Inexpensive Home Upgrades You Can Do in a Weekendhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/76/8-inexpensive-home-upgrades-you-can-do-in-a-weekendDIY,Home MaintenanceFri, 08 Feb 2019 20:55:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">8 INEXPENSIVE HOME UPGRADES YOU CAN DO IN A WEEKEND</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> February 8, 2019 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/appliances">appliances</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/painting">painting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/lighting">lighting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-exterior">home exterior</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/bathroom">bathroom</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/electrical">electrical</a></p> <p>Looking for an inexpensive way to give your home an upgrade? Try any of these ideas for a new look and feel that won’t break the bank.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">1. Replace your light fixtures.</span><br /> Light fixtures are one of those features that can age a space fast. Not only will replacing them give your space an instantly modern look, it can also increase your home’s value. When you go to replace your fixtures, don’t forget about the kitchen and the bathroom! Those areas are often neglected but mean the most to future buyers.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">2. Trade in your drawer pulls and hardware.</span><br /> If you’re not quite ready to invest in a full cabinet overhaul, starting with the hardware is a great way to test out a new look. New drawer pulls and knobs are inexpensive and can give even tired or outdated cabinets a whole new look in minutes.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">3. Give your mailbox an upgrade.</span><br /> If you have a boring, lackluster mailbox, setting a weekend aside to spruce it up can really pay off in the curb appeal department. You can replace the box itself, give your post a more upscale look using decorative rocks or go full DIY and find a unique tutorial.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">4. Invest in a smart thermostat.</span><br /> Smart thermostats are getting more affordable all the time, and they can make heating and cooling your home faster, easier and more effective. In fact, you can save up to 25 percent on heating and cooling in one year just by switching to a smart thermostat, so if you have a large home, this upgrade should be at the top of your list.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">5. Paint your front door.</span><br /> Painting your front door means giving your home a whole new vibe in the space of just one afternoon. The options are limitless, so if you’re having a tough time picking out the perfect color, try one of 2019’s most popular trends. This year, homeowners are gravitating toward reds, grays, blacks, rusts, blues, greens, fuchsias and yellows.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">6. Try a new showerhead.</span><br /> Guests may not notice this improvement, but you certainly will. Hit reset on your morning routine by installing a brand new showerhead. You can get an excellent quality model for anywhere from $50 to $200. You could go with a handheld, rain shower or multi-setting, or try out a low flow showerhead to save water and money over time.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">7. Get new outlet covers.</span><br /> Nothing ages a room faster than old, yellowed outlet covers. Luckily, you can snap up shiny new outlet covers for as little as a couple dollars apiece, and it doesn’t take a seasoned DIY guru to replace them. For an instant upgrade, it doesn’t get less inexpensive and more effective than this.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">8. Re-caulk your bathroom.</span><br /> This one is probably best reserved for those that are no stranger to home improvement projects. Removing and redoing holy, gaping or stained caulking around your tub and sink can make your bathroom appear instantly brighter. If you’re not quite ready to pick up a caulk gun, you also have the option of brightening your existing caulk with bleach and an old toothbrush or grout and caulk repair pens.</p> <p> </p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Call National Property Inspections today to arrange a full assessment of your home.</span><br /> Our NPI inspectors can help you invest with success by providing you a full report on the most important components of your home. With more than 220 locations across the United States and Canada, finding an inspector near you is quick and convenient.</p> 7610 New Year's Resolutions for Your Homehttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/80/10-new-years-resolutions-for-your-homeHoliday,Home Decor,Just for Fun,SafetyFri, 11 Jan 2019 21:23:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">10 NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS FOR YOUR HOME</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> January 11, 2019 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/winter">Winter</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/organization">organization</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/bathroom">bathroom</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kitchen">kitchen</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/appliances">appliances</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/lighting">lighting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/electrical">electrical</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/insulation">insulation</a></p> <p>Want to make 2019 the best year yet? It all starts with a happy home. Putting even one or two of these 10 household New Year’s resolutions into practice can help you create a healthy space for making all your dreams realities.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">1. Improve your indoor air quality.</span><br /> Make clean air a priority in 2019. Poor indoor air quality is a leading cause of respiratory issues, like asthma and allergies. It can also cause headaches, dizziness, nausea and general malaise. That’s because indoor air can harbor mold spores, dust, pollen and other nasty stuff you don’t want to be cooped up with all day.</p> <p>Changing your furnace filter at least once a year can go a long way toward improving indoor air quality. Make sure your ventilation system is up to par, particularly in the kitchen and bathrooms. You should also use low-VOC paint and burn real firewood instead of pressed wood logs. This will help keep risky chemicals out of the air for extended periods of time. As an extra measure, portable air cleaners are available to help purify air in single rooms.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">2. Declutter, room by room.</span><br /> The beginning of the year is a great time to reevaluate your belongings. What do you actually use? What brings you joy? What feels stale? Since de-cluttering can get overwhelming quickly, and breaking tasks down into manageable chunks is key to achieving big results, it’s best to go room by room. Try designating one room for one weekend day until the job is done.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">3. Simplify a chore that stresses you out.</span><br /> We all have that one chore we dread. Maybe your vacuum just isn’t cutting it anymore, or putting away dishes is way more difficult than it should be because your cabinets are over-stuffed. Give yourself a break and simplify! This might mean hiring outside help, treating yourself to simply figuring out a new approach to organization. Whatever it may be, make your own happiness a priority and tackle it just because it’ll make your day-to-day life easier.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">4. Volunteer your time in the neighborhood.</span><br /> Nothing feels better than giving back to your community. You can do one better by taking on a special task in your neighborhood, like cleaning up a park, founding a community garden or organizing a neighborhood watch group. You’ll make new friends and creating a last positive impact.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">5. Take tangible steps toward saving energy.</span><br /> We’ve talked about saving energy time and time again on the NPI Home blog. If you haven’t taken steps toward energy conservation, the start of the new year is a great time to turn over a new leaf. Here are a few steps you can take this weekend to help:</p> <ul> <li>Use weather stripping to seal cracks and fix drafty doors and windows</li> <li>Switch out traditional lightbulbs for energy-saving lightbulbs</li> <li>Insulate your HVAC system’s ductwork</li> <li>Be diligent about keep lights off in unused rooms</li> <li>Set your thermostat to kick on only when you’re home</li> </ul> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">6. Change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.</span><br /> When’s the last time you changed the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors? If you can’t remember, the chore is probably past due. Go ahead and do it right away and make a note on your phone calendar or planner of the next date you’ll need new batteries. This way you’ll never miss another change.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">7. Keep your kitchen stocked with healthy ingredients.</span><br /> To keep your energy up and feel your best in the coming year, you need to fuel your body with healthy food. Make a point to keep your kitchen stocked with healthy snacks, as well as a few pantry staples that will allow you to throw together a nutritious meal in a snap. For healthy snacks, try string cheese, fresh fruit, nuts and crudités with hummus. For a meal in a pinch, keep black beans, eggs, brown rice, quinoa, whole wheat pasta and frozen veggies on hand, plus a protein of your choice. With a basic spice arsenal, these items can be leveraged into stir frys, casseroles and an array of one-pot dishes.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">8. Treat yourself to something fresh and new.</span><br /> If you haven’t updated your space in a hot minute, why not try something new? It doesn’t have to be big or expensive to create a fresh look and feel. You might try:</p> <ul> <li>Shopping Etsy or your local secondhand shop for a new art print</li> <li>Snagging a new houseplant (the easier to care for, the better!)</li> <li>Upgrading your sheets—bonus points if you pick a new color palette</li> <li>Swapping out your curtains</li> <li>Choosing some fun new throw pillows for your couch</li> </ul> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">9. Create a filing system for important documents.</span><br /> Unorganized paper piles are Enemy Number One for the dedicated de-clutterer. This is the year you nip those sloppy stacks in the bud once and for all. Whether you opt for a full-blown filing cabinet, a portable accordion folder or a desktop file sorter will depend on your space, needs and budget, but any of these solutions will go a long way toward keeping your important documents organized and easy-to-find. If you’re stuck setting a few hours aside to sort and toss old documents, make sure you take the time to dispose of them the right way. If you have a shredder, you can shred them from the comfort of your own home. Otherwise, you can pay a fee (typically around $1 a pound) at most shipping and office supply stores, or wait for a free community shredding event.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">10. Watch your water usage.</span><br /> Did you know that even though 71% of earth is covered in water, only 0.5% is available for drinking? With rising populations, saving water becomes everyone’s responsibility. Not only will this minimize the effects of droughts, it helps preserve the environment for years and years to come.</p> <p>If taking long, hot baths or showers is your favorite way to relax, it’s worth it to find a new way to treat yourself. Try a little aromatherapy with a scented candle or essential oils. Yoga and meditation are also great alternatives when you need a little alone time and rejuvenation.</p> <p> </p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Call National Property Inspections for a full home inspection today.</span><br /> Our NPI inspectors are professionally trained to assess your home’s major systems and create a comprehensive report of its condition. Find an inspector near you today.</p> 80How to Remove a Popcorn Ceilinghttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/88/how-to-remove-a-popcorn-ceilingDIY,Home DecorFri, 26 Oct 2018 16:30:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOW TO REMOVE A POPCORN CEILING</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> October 26, 2018 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/ceiling">ceiling</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/lighting">lighting</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/painting">painting</a></p> <p>Popcorn ceilings are just one of those things. Some of us barely notice them, while others put them in the same category as fake wood paneling when it comes to outdatedness. If you’re of the latter opinion, the good news is that you don’t have to live with your popcorn ceilings forever. While it can be a pretty messy task, you can still remove all that texture with a little DIY know-how.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">When in doubt, check for asbestos!</span><br /> For any popcorn ceiling installed before 1980, you run the risk of dealing with asbestos, a common cause of lung cancer. You can purchase a testing kit for around $50 and send a small sample of scrapings to a lab for definitive results. Be sure to follow the directions in your kit carefully. Even a small scraping can introduce a good number of (potential) asbestos particles to the air.</p> <p>You can also hire a local professional asbestos testing service. This can be considerably more expensive, but quite a bit more comprehensive since they’ll test multiple areas, air quality and more. If your home was built long before 1980 and you’re not sure of its renovation history, a professional test is well worth it for the peace of mind.</p> <p>If your test does come back positive for asbestos, your popcorn ceiling project will need to be put on hold. You can hire a professional removal team or cover your ceiling with tongue-and-groove planks or new drywall. With a cover-up, you’ll be looking at a painting-only project instead of a scraping-then-painting one.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Prepare your space for a rather large mess.</span><br /> We’re not going to beat around the bush: removing a popcorn ceiling can turn your space into a gloppy mess in minutes. You’ll want to invest in drop cloths . . . lots of drop cloths. The plastic variety is best because you can scrunch it up, trapping the mess inside, and just throw it away. Cover rugs and carpets and hang drop cloths in doorways, making sure they reach the floor.</p> <p>It’s best to remove any furniture from the space you’ll be working in. If that isn’t possible, you’ll want to group it together in one area of the room and be sure it’s completely covered with drop cloths. You can move your furniture cluster around the room as needed while you work in different areas.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Prepare yourself.</span><br /> Did we mention that removing a popcorn ceiling is a messy job? Wear old clothes and shoes. If your skin is sensitive, you may want to wear clothing that covers your arms and legs—you’re almost guaranteed to be up to your elbows in damp white gunk once the scraping begins. You’ll also need to have a dust mask that securely covers your nose and mouth on hand for the sanding phase.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Remove light fixtures and ceiling fans, protect light cans and cover electrical boxes.</span><br /> Trust us, you won’t want to skip these prep steps. Taking the time to cover or remove anything on your ceiling will help you avoid needing replacements in the long-run when the wet popcorn inevitably starts flying. You’ll need to remove light fixtures and ceiling fans, and stuff newspaper or rosin paper in any light cans. You’ll also need to make sure you turn off the circuit breaker or fuse box connected to those lights. If there are any electrical boxes in the ceiling, you need to cover those as well. Use painter’s tape to keep the wiring dry.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Mist the ceiling with a pump sprayer.</span><br /> To eliminate most of the dust that would get kicked up from scraping popcorn dry, you’ll first mist a four foot by four foot area of the ceiling with water. An inexpensive pump sprayer from the gardening department of your local hardware store will work nicely. Only mist lightly—you don’t want to oversaturate—then let it soak for about 15 minutes before you proceed with scraping. By this time, the texture should have softened. If it hasn’t softened yet, you’re probably dealing with a painted ceiling. Doing a little dry-scraping first can help the water penetrate more effectively.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Start scraping.</span><br /> Remember to wet the next section you plan to work in right before you start scraping the one you’ve been waiting to work with. This will help you get into a rhythm and work faster. Working in the small section you’ve misted with water, start scraping. You can hold a mud pan up to catch much of the wet popcorn before it hits the floor. The edge of the pan is also handy for cleaning your scraper when it gets covered.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Sand the ceiling to prep for painting.</span><br /> Your last step is going to be to sand the ceiling so that you have a smooth surface for paint application. You also may have small gouges or dings to fill in. And that’s it!</p> <p> </p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Call National Property Inspections today to schedule your inspection.</span><br /> Our inspectors have the expertise to access all of your home’s major systems. <a class="color-secondary" href="/Find-an-Inspector" target="_blank">Find an inspector near you today</a> to order an inspection and receive your full report.</p> 88