What happens if you hit a gas main while you are digging?

If you are intending to start a digging project in your yard you need to be very careful. You can easily see any hazards that lie above ground but you should remember that there are potential hazards under the ground as well. If you encounter one of these hazards during the project it can be costly and potentially dangerous.

One of the hazards you are most likely to hit is a utility pipe. These are the pipes which carry utilities such as gas and water into your home. If you are planning to dig in your yard it’s a good idea to speak to an expert about utility locating. This is a process which enables you to see where utility pipes are so that you can avoid them when you begin to dig. We are going to take a look at how you can benefit from utility location and what can happen if you do not know where the pipes are and you accidently hit a gas main. 

Why is utility location a good idea?

Many people make assumptions about the location of utility pipes around their property; this is not a good idea. The only way to know for certain where utility pipes are located is to get an expert to map them for you.

This information should form an integral part of any planning you do before you start to dig. If you know what underground obstacles you are likely to encounter you can make sure you avoid them. This helps you avoid any unexpected incidents which could be costly in terms of both time and money. 

What if you do hit a gas main while you are digging?

If you do not establish the location of utility pipes before you start digging you run the risk of striking them by mistake. This includes the possibility of hitting a gas main. If you are unlucky enough to have this happen to you it’s important that you take the right action. This helps to keep you safe.

The first thing you need to do is get as far away from the gas as possible. Then you need to contact the utility company and let them know there is an emergency as gas is leaking. You should never panic and just try and make the call using your smartphone while you are still in close proximity to the gas main. This can create sparks which could create an explosion if they make contact with the escaped gas. It’s vital that you move away from the leak before you make the call.

Hopefully, we have helped you to see how important it is to have utility location carried out before you start to dig in your yard. It may be tempting to just try and get on with the project but this can cause problems down the line. You could end up having to pay for repair costs, and putting yourself in danger, if you unexpectedly hit a gas main, or other utility pipe of cable.

The best ways to improve the curb appeal of your home

If you want to sell your home you need to give yourself the very best chance of doing so. Obviously, you can enlist the help of professionals to assist with the sale, but you may be surprised at just how much assistance you can get from curb appeal. You should always remember that there may be people passing your property who are in the market for a new home. If your home has good curb appeal they are more likely to show an interest.

The aim of this article is to take a look at why curb appeal can be so important and how it can be improved. Hopefully we will give you the inspiration you need to improve the curb appeal of your property and make it easier to sell. 

What is so important about curb appeal?

If you think about it, we all tend to judge a lot of things in life by first appearances. This is a little different when a property purchase is involved as many checks and surveys are usually completed before a sale is finalised. That being said, first impressions are still important. It’s the first look at a property that first attracts a buyer. If your home does not look appealing from the outside this could detract any potential buyers who just happen to be passing by.

Conversely, if you make an effort to improve the external appearance of your home passers-by may just be tempted to stop and take a look. This automatically expands the potential market for your property.

What can you do to improve the curb appeal of your property?

We have explained why improving the curb appeal of your home is important, but what can you do to make it happen? Let’s take a look at a few options you may want to consider.

• Give your property a paint job. If the paintwork of your home looks a little jaded it’s not going to stand out to potential buyers. If you do decide to give your property a coat of paint it’s a good idea to opt for a more neutral colour that can appeal to all tastes. 
• Bring out the hanging baskets. You may think that something as simple as a hanging basket does not have that much appeal. The fact is that a few well planted plants or shrubs can be very eye catching. 
• Clad the walls of your property. If you want to give your home a new look you may want to give upvc cladding a try. This type of cladding can look really good on your property and it also acts as good insulation. You can certainly use this as a selling point. 

All of these options can help you add curb appeal to your home. It’s also worth remembering that simple things, like making sure the front of your home is tidy and that the windows are clean, can go a long way to making your property more appealing.

3 Reasons Why You Need a Natural Air Home Ventilation System

If you are in the market to improve the overall quality of air that you and your family are breathing on a daily basis in your home, you may want to think about installing a natural air home ventilation system. There are many companies out there that provide these systems that you can select from. Teal Products, based in the UK provides automated solutions for smoke ventilation systems for commercial and home as well as natural air ventilation systems. Here are three reasons why you should consider installing a natural air ventilation system for your home.

1.Improve the Quality of the Air You Breathe

As very well informed consumers, we all are very aware that the air we breathe daily is filled with pollutants, allergens, and potentially dangerous toxins. If you are a homeowner and you add pets to this equation you have just added another element of potential allergens to this mix: pet hair and pet dander. While some of this is, unavoidable and do not present immediate threats to clarity of the air in your home there are things that you can do to at least lower the levels of toxins in your immediate home environment. Installing an automated home ventilation systems can literally filter and clean the air that you breathe. 

2. Reduced CO2 Levels

We have all read the horror stories of families going to sleep at night and not waking up the next day due to what is referred to as the silent killer, carbon dioxide. With a natural air ventilation system installed in your home you can rest easily knowing that you have a system in place that is monitoring CO2 levels in the air and constantly filtering the air to keep CO2 levels non-toxic. The value that an air ventilation solution can provide you and your family are second to none regarding keeping your loved ones safe and healthy!

3. Full Control and Regulation of System

Many of the natural air home ventilation systems that are available out there offer full control, regulation and customized options for your home natural air ventilation system. There are various inputs that the systems can regulate such as weather elements and of course as mentioned above, CO2 levels. After installation of a natural air ventilation system in your home or business you can manage the system based on your own specific needs and you can set it to work depending on when you are in your home the most. Another option to consider for further home safety is adding smoke ventilation automated solutions to your home or office in the case of a fire. These systems literally provide automation of your windows or valves to open in the event of smoke or fire in your home. Having both systems installed will give you endless amounts of peace of mind knowing that you and your family are breathing the freshest of air and that you are protected in the unfortunate case of a fire in your home or place of business.

The art of a welcoming entry

  Choosing the right piece of art for you entry can set a welcoming scene for your home.

  When I have the option, I always choose art first and then build a room around it  rather than buy art to match a space. It's the artist in me, you need a focal point in a room that doesn't have an architectural one, and art is your most versatile choice.

 I designed this small space several years ago, but it is still on trend today. Here are some elements to think about before making an art purchase for any space, but in particular small spaces where you many only have one piece of art.


Scale

This  contained front entry is a narrow space with a high ceiling. The bench is low and dark and was to the right of the door.  The table  also dark was to the left of the door.

Always choose work that mimics the shape of the space you are filling.

 In a smaller space I often use one piece of art rather than an array of smaller pieces, but that's personal preference.   The vertical orientation  of this painting helps bridge the space between the low bench back and the high ceiling.  The vertical lines of the trees also helps move the eye up.

The width of the painting is roughly 2/3 of the bench width.  This is always a good proportion.

Colour 

The walls are a cool blue grey and were part of the original colour scheme of the house.  Cool colours in an entry with little light can lead  to a depressing space.  One of the best ways to move a visually cool space to  an inviting one  is to choose work that has very warm colours.  There's also nothing like nature's colours to warm a space. 

Repetition

Once I  chose the art for the focal point in this space,  I moved the colour around in the pillow and flowers on the opposite wall.  Also note the repetition of the diamonds from the bench back to the orange pillow  and the cut crystal vase.  The vertical lines in the tree trunks  are also reinforced in the tall, sparse floral arrangement and the lamp.  Even the verticals in the door frame are doing their part in repetition.

Contrast  

This is where your space will sink or swim.  Every room needs contrast or will be boring.  Contrast creates layers/depth and helps mover your eye around a space.  The dark woods in this space stand out against the light walls. The white flower, dish, lamp shade and trim work stand out against the walls and the darker wood. 

Subject matter

Choose images you connect with and forget about what everyone else thinks.  If a work doesn't speak to you why bother to have it? 

Finding just the right piece of art is always a challenge, but in my mind the right piece can make a whole space sing.

And art won

After a perfect summer 

 There's nothing like a summer away from the wear and tear of business to hours and days of art  to make you aware of what's really important in your life.  The voices in my head were murmuring at the beginning of the summer, but by September they reached a crescendo; I couldn't ignore them any longer.

 I need more time to make art.

There, I finally said it out loud.

 I've decided to bring my design business more in line with my art practice by eliminating some of the services I offer design clients and focusing on the ones that are more art related.  Enter the designer artist  from the sidelines to front and centre.

Colour me happy 

Colour has always been my specialty because I've honed my knowledge through years of  mixing colour in art making.  I enjoy creating  welcoming colour schemes for clients, and I will continue to do this.

The art of designing home

 In addition to colour consultation,  Designing Home will focus on the finishing touches/ accessorizing (art and objects) that move  a space from ordinary to exceptional.

Many times decorators can successfully source objects to add interest  to your space, but sometimes what you need is original and designed with you and your home in mind.  That's where Designing Home is different from other design businesses.

I can create commissioned work to fill your needs or offer a large selection of artwork to choose from or help you select work by other artists.   And just as important is  advice on where and how to hang your work. 

Some of my works that already have  homes.... 

Margaret Ryall 

Margaret Ryall 

Margaret Ryall 

Margaret Ryall

Margaret Ryall 

 I work in a  variety of media and styles from realistic to abstract and non representational. 


Check out my Instagram feed or The Leyton Gallery  website.

And art won

After a perfect summer 

 There's nothing like a summer away from the wear and tear of business to hours and days of art  to make you aware of what's really important in your life.  The voices in my head were murmuring at the beginning of the summer, but by September they reached a crescendo; I couldn't ignore them any longer.

 I need more time to make art.

There, I finally said it out loud.

 I've decided to bring my design business more in line with my art practice by eliminating some of the services I offer design clients and focusing on the ones that are more art related.  Enter the designer artist  from the sidelines to front and centre.

Colour me happy 

Colour has always been my specialty because I've honed my knowledge through years of  mixing colour in art making.  I enjoy creating  welcoming colour schemes for clients, and I will continue to do this.

The art of designing home

 In addition to colour consultation,  Designing Home will focus on the finishing touches/ accessorizing (art and objects) that move  a space from ordinary to exceptional.

Many times decorators can successfully source objects to add interest  to your space, but sometimes what you need is original and designed with you and your home in mind.  That's where Designing Home is different from other design businesses.

I can create commissioned work to fill your needs or offer a large selection of artwork to choose from or help you select work by other artists.   And just as important is  advice on where and how to hang your work. 

Some of my works that already have  homes.... 

Margaret Ryall 

Margaret Ryall 

Margaret Ryall 

Margaret Ryall

Margaret Ryall 

 I work in a  variety of media and styles from realistic to abstract and non representational. 


Check out my Instagram feed or The Leyton Gallery  website.

5 Best Places to Raise a Family in America

The average American can expect to move at least 11 times in their lifetime. Moving can be a sign of a new opportunity – either a new job or the accumulation of wealth – or instability due to job loss or foreclosure. Either way, a newly married couple should choose a location that is conducive to their overall pursuit of happiness and economic prosperity.

With that in mind, here are the top five places (in no particular order) to raise a family based on key metrics like relative cost of housing, quality of health care and education systems, opportunities for recreation, and crime rate. 

1. Irvine, California

Irvine, CA has continually appeared as one of the best places to live on various online publications, and for a good reason. The city is home to great public schools, a lively economy and low crime rates compared to the rest of the country. The city is home to about 100,000 people and is billed as the Best Run City in the U.S. Irvine is home to many major businesses and there is no shortage of jobs in the finance and technology sectors. This makes it a favorable city for fathers and mothers looking for jobs to support their families. In addition, the city hosts several parks, public libraries and the Irvine Global Village Festival. 

2. Cedar City, Utah

As a small university town, Cedar City, UT, is famous for being one of the most budget-friendly cities in the U.S. Although income levels may not be as high as some other cities, cost of living here more than makes up for it. In fact, the Cedar City real estate market is within reach of most people’s wallets and you can get much more bang for your buck than many other urban areas. And contrary to popular opinion, the region is far from boring. The Southern Utah University is not only the biggest employer in town, but is the cultural center hosting a huge number of events like the Utah Shakespeare Festival that runs annually from summer to fall. 

3. Greenwich, Connecticut

Connecticut is an upper middle class city that is said to among the safest cities in America. It is home to a thriving culture with a choral society, natural history museum and an orchestra. The rail travel to Manhattan’s Grand Central Station makes this city ideal for dads and moms who are working in the city, but love the suburban lifestyle offered by Greenwich. There are several landmarks including islands, bird sanctuaries and wildlife habitats that will certainly become a favorite weekend activity for your kids. Plus, there are several private and public schools that graduate a huge number of students to the nation’s top colleges. 

4. Keller, Texas

With a population of about 45,000, Keller, TX is found to the north of Fort Worth. The city offers you and your family exceptionally low crime rates, scenic landscaping and top-ranked schools. In fact, two schools in this location have made it to the list of the best high schools in America. Economically, the city is hailed as one of the most stable cities in Texas. Keller is idealized as the best location for what a perfect southern town should be for a stable, happy and healthy family. 

5. Boulder, Colorado

Do you love fresh air? Then waking up to refreshingly beautiful Colorado mountains will make every day your day. Boulder also happens to be home to one of America’s greatest universities – the University of Colorado. The excellent school system, relatively low crime rate and awe-inspiring scenes make Boulder one of the best places for a family to live in.

Everybody wants to offer his or her family the very best, including a suitable household in an area where there a proper school system and a low crime rate. In consideration of these factors, you will certainly find that the cities listed above offer all these plus a host of fun things to do, a bustling culture and individuals of similar mindsets and goals.

5 Common Pool Maintenance Problems and How to Overcome Them

Having a pool is fantastic, except for when it doesn’t seem to be working the way that it should be. Then, you may be in a position where it may be difficult to deal with it. That being said, there are a lot of things that you may have issues with. Blue Sparkle Pool Service in Las Vegas has put together this article to help you figure out the 5 most common pool issues and how to fix them yourself.

1. Algae seems to have overrun your pool. Algae is a common issue that happens to many pools. If the chlorine doesn’t seem to be high enough, then you will likely get that little bit of algae on there. Take some time to do a shock treatment to get it out of there and get the chlorine levels back to where they need to be.

2. Your pool water is a strange color, like brown or bright teal. If this is going on, then it means that there are likely some odd minerals in your pool. Iron and copper are usually the culprits, and they can get taken care of easily if you get the right things for your needs. Blue Pools Phoenix can help you to get the right tools for your needs and can give you some help with getting rid of the minerals for good.

3. Foggy water issues. Usually, this means that the pH level isn’t where it’s supposed to be. Most of the time, this will happen after a rain, which can really throw off the water levels and leave you unable to see the bottom. Consider getting a water testing kit for your pool and seeing what may be going on with it. Then, talk to a pool expert and see what the necessary adjustments may be. It can be a huge help and leave you with a clear pool once again.

4. Water leakage. Just because you are seeing a leak in your pool doesn’t mean that it needs to be completely replaced. Instead, you may want to call someone like Clear Blue Pool Builders in Dallas to take a look and see if they can make repairs first. It may be something as simple as a crack that can be filled in without any issues.

5. Stains on the sides. If you are starting to see stains on the side of your pool, it may be because of too much chlorine or too high pH levels. Either way, you want to take some time to test the water and see what is going on with it. Then, you can make the necessary adjustments and

Taking care of your pool can seem like a hassle, but there are a lot of ways to make the whole thing easier on yourself in the long run. Take some time to look into options for your issues and to find solutions that make sense for just what you need to do for your particular issue at hand.

Sustainability and Utility Cost-Effectively

LED solutions

Sustainability in today's age isn't something reserved for those with a bottomless budget. Technology becomes more streamlined with time and development. Today, it has reached the point where even those with limited budgets are able to enjoy the many benefits which become available.

An LED is a Light-Emitting Diode. Because of the nature of this innovation, it is able to provide energy-efficient illumination that requires less energy, and lasts longer. Oftentimes an LED will last as much as fifty times longer than a conventional filament bulb.

That means less replacement. You'll be able to purchase an LED fixture and trust in it for years—decades even, depending on its use. And all that comes with diminished cost to your pocketbook. You actually pay more on your utility bill for older lighting options, as they require more electricity to operate.

Ultimately your carbon footprint decreases with such options, meaning going this route is better for the environment as well. If that weren't enough, LEDs don't burn “hot”. This means they're usually not hot to the touch. Sometimes they may be warm, but it's as likely they'll be near the room's ambient temperature.

The light which is emitted from LED solutions is usually easier on the eyes, too. According to ATG Electronics, LED Outdoor Lighting Fixtures offer “glare free and uniform lighting.” Oftentimes there is flickering with filament bulbs on a frequency that isn't always immediately identifiable, but which definitely has a cognitive effect.

Solar Solutions
Solar panels are cheaper than ever today as well. As a matter of fact, according to Wikipedia, you can get solar panels in an industrial capacity as low as $0.70 per Watt. That means you could purchase a system of 3.1 kWh for $2,170. Installation and necessary functional accoutrements will likely bring the price up to somewhere around $5k; but still: for ten years you'll be entirely energy independent.

Using an LED option with solar technology allows you to remain off the grid perpetually, with illumination options that are good for the environment, last longer, look better, and ultimately save you money. The only real downside to either solution is initial investment; but it pays for itself over time.

Applying Modern Technological Breakthroughs To The Home
Whether you're looking to remain energy-independent from grid solutions that are increasingly less trustworthy in modernity, or you're trying to be more conscientious in the choices you make as they affect the environment, solar and LED options are definitely recommendable.

Additional breakthroughs are coming every day, and it is now theoretically possible to function with full modern technical connectivity while remaining entirely grid-independent.

Such a lifestyle would look something like this: you would have a garden utilizing prepared human waste collected via composting systems which are becoming more affordable and easy to use. You'd get your energy from the sun, and your lighting from LEDs that don't use much of that solar power. Collecting water from a rain barrel, or a well dug on the property, will likewise serve your purposes.

If you throw in a prefabricated steel building, you can even have a structurally sound, low-impact housing option from which to expand your ecologically and economically friendly sustainable options. The only difficulty at this point is finding proper land on which to build; but if you look in the right places, that can be sourced inexpensively as well.

It all depends on your proclivities and the kind of work you do. Keep an eye out for online work—you may be able to eke out a career using the 'net which doesn't require you to be involved in a corporation that doesn't keep your best interests in mind. Do that, and you can live anywhere.

Ways to Update Your Dining Room Décor on a Budget

For many, the dining room is only used for special occasions or family get-togethers, and can often become neglected and forgotten when its not in use. For others, the dining room is a room that is used frequently for some valuable family meal time, but again, can become overlooked or put to the bottom of the list for when it comes to a quick makeover. There’s no reason why renovating your dining room should be an expensive process, as there are many different ways you can update the décor without having to spend too much time or money doing so. Here are a few ways in which you can update your dining space whilst keeping things cost-efficient and simple.

Brighten up

The way you light your dining areas can completely transform the overall atmosphere and ambiance of the room. Brightening up your interiors will create a brand new, fresh feel that will lift the atmosphere in your dining area and create a welcoming feel. From spot lighting to oversized pendant lighting, you can create a stunning look without having to make much of a change at all.

Another way to brighten your dining areas is to allow as much natural light to travel through the room as possible. Natural light is perfect for brightening the room and making it seem more spacious and roomy. Natural light is also a perfect way to create a welcoming, homely atmosphere.

Bold Furniture

Every dining room deserves a statement piece of furniture to draw the room together and create the perfect focal point. Investing in one bold piece of furniture will lift the rooms atmosphere and create the perfect finished look. It’s always a good idea to keep your furniture pieces similar, from the same material, to keep the consistency and make your dining area look complete. As the largest piece in the room, the dining table is usually the centre piece that stands out and can be dressed to make the room that little more creative. Whether you have an oak dining table or a glass top table, there are so many stylish ways that you can dress the table and make it stand out beautifully.

Bursts of Personality

Your home reflects your personality, and therefore the way you decorate your home is crucial to highlight your interests and personal style. If you’re a bold, bubbly individual then incorporating bright, bold artwork or colours into your dining areas décor will emphasise your bright personality. Similarly, if you prefer to stick with a contemporary, chic look then introducing neutral palettes and chic detailing will highlight your personal style beautifully. Introducing items such as family photographs and artwork adds a really simple yet effective touch of character to the room and instantly creates a warm, welcoming touch.

Add a Rug

A statement rug will add a touch of energy and life to your dining area. Whether you opt for an out-there style with a bold pattern, or a simplistic style that simply adds some extra detail to the interiors, adding a rug is the perfect finishing touch for any dining room.

You can find many inexpensive rugs that still look great and add character to any room. It’s best to choose your rug to suit the room, for example smaller rooms may look better with a smaller rug that doesn’t create a cramped look. Similarly, placing a tiny rug in a really large room will look out of place and create a strange look, so adding a rug that suits the rooms size is key.

Easy Ways To Enhance Your Home’s Interior Design

As a homeowner, you will want to do everything in your power to optimize your home’s appearance. This includes keeping your home clean and well maintained. Some homeowners will strive for something more. They’ll want their guests to gasp in awe, when they enter their home. If you fit into this category and share this mindset, you will want to tweak your home’s design frequently until you get it just right. Just remember that there are numerous aspects of your home’s design that can be tinkered with. Within this guide, you will discover easy ways to improve your home’s appearance.

Organization

Many homeowners make the mistake of loading their rooms down with too many items. Unfortunately, this can cause the room to feel chaotic and cluttered. This can also make it difficult for guests to navigate through the room. If you feel the need to add more items to a specific room, you should choose those that will remain out of the way. Wall art and rugs are a good choice. These items will remain out of the way, while enhancing your home’s appearance. Also, make sure the furniture within the room is well organized.

Add A Rug

Hardwood floors and carpets are beautiful, but they can wear out over a period of time. Also, the floor’s appearance may eventually become tiresome. When this happens, you will want to consider making a change. Since it would be too difficult to tear up the wood or carpet, you should consider opting for a brand-new rug. Rugs are available in various styles and can be found in numerous colors. This helps to ensure that you’ll be able to find classic or modern rugs, which match your room’s current color scheme. Purchasing a rug is effortless and you can add it to your room within a matter of seconds. Despite the simplicity, a new rug can do wonders for your room’s appearance.

New Coat Of Paint

If you wish to completely change the appearance of a room, you should purchase paint. A new coat of paint can dramatically alter your room’s appearance. Using light paint over a dark green can help to bring the room to life. Alternatively, it is possible to cool down a room and make it more relaxing by covering up that light paint with something a little darker in tone. The difficulty of painting will depend on the size of the room, but the effort will be well worth it. Just remember to choose a new color that matches the other items within the room.

Lighting

When it comes to altering your home’s interior environment, you will need to start with new lighting. There is a long list of lighting option available to you, making the task of just choosing one a challenge. First of all, you should consider the location, since some areas will require more lighting than others. If you are unsure about the type of lighting fixture that will suit that area, be sure to speak with an expert. Independent shops are the best place to go for advice, because these are often run by individuals that have a lot of experience with accent lighting and décor.

If you are looking for a lighting fixture that will also be utilized as a decoration, you should consider a contemporary pendant or traditional chandelier. These fixtures have personality and will liven up any entranceway or hallway. The decorative design will also enhance the existing décor, bringing your home to life and drawing attention from all angles.

Patterns To Match

Renovation is a challenging project to undertake, plus the steps must be broken down and completed in a timely manner. Mixing and matching your décor, pillows, furniture pieces, rug, lighting, and flooring is a crucial step to perfection. Your furniture will play a huge role in the appearance of your home. The colors and design of the furniture should match the rug in your home. Coordinating these pieces will not be easy, but with a little assistance from a home designer you will do just find.

Believe it or not, the furniture is the most important part of each room in your home. Once you pick out the furniture pieces, you will then start to choose the other items, just make sure that they match in color and design.

Simplify The Materials

Instead of having a home scattered with different materials try using just one simple fabric. Whether you choose a floral or solid design on every piece of upholstered furniture, this technique will allow people to notice the shape of the furniture. If you are thinking about using a patterned fabric, you can really make a statement by using large quantities.

Hanging Artwork At The Right Height

There is a reason that galleries and museum hang artwork at a certain height. Each piece is usually hung around 57 to 60 inches off the floor, because this is level with the average human eye, and you should practice the same technique in your home.