With each season comes changing weather, and for many people it is a time to move to a new house or handle a home renovation. When needing to move personal items, it is important to use the right tools – especially if you need to store things for quite a while.

 

Finding the best way to pack some personal items into a portable storage unit can be harder than it seems. Some common items people use for storage are: garbage bags, cardboard boxes, and moving blankets.

The best option will depend on the size of the item, its purpose, and how long you plan on storing your possessions in your portable storage unit. If you are looking for a solution that will hold up long term, you should look into plastic storage containers. These versatile vessels are ideal for storing personal items safely and efficiently. Here are five reasons why.

1. They’re Easy to Organize

One of the hardest parts of storing personal items is getting things correctly sorted. With storage containers, you simply pack everything into various containers separated by item type, or room in the house. Once you have done that you can add a label to the outside or write on the lid with permanent marker to help you locate items easier later on.

2. They Keep Pests Out

Some items, like clothing, are target to pests like moths. Anything with real cotton or wool fibers is likely to be attacked by insects, so a plastic storage container is a big help for keeping moths and other troublemakers out of the way without smelly mothballs or dangerous chemicals.

3. They Keep Personal items Clean & Dry

If you don’t need to use a portable storage unit and are looking to store items in your attic or garage, you may encounter a lot of dust or moist conditions leading to additional cleanup work when you get personal items back out. Plastic containers keep everything dry and clean no matter what may be going on outside them.

4. They Stack!

Bags and boxes may seem like great storage, but when it comes time to stack them, they can be tough to handle. Boxes can weaken and collapse, and bags simply don’t stack well all. Plastic storage tubs nest neatly together, and they come in many sizes that will allow you to maximize use of your portable storage unit.

5. They Will Last

While we’re talking boxes and bags, remember that cardboard and plastic may rip or degrade, with time and environmental factors. Plastic containers will tolerate that abuse for many years, making them a good investment for several years of use whether you are storing clothes, knick-knacks, or other personal items.

Sometimes a home renovation or a move can become much easier with the right tools. Instead of fighting with boxes and bags next time, you will find plastic storage containers to be a durable, clean, organized way to store your personal items while moving.

Whether you have an asphalt driveway or parking lot, maintenance plays a heavy role in making sure that it doesn’t rot away or erode over time. Asphalt can be a convenient, easy, and cheaper method of paving a designated area. With those benefits, however, comes necessary steps you need to take to make sure that you get the most of it that you can. Here are five of them.

1. Sweeping

Something as simple as regularly having your asphalt swept can be a huge deciding factor for how long your asphalt lot lasts. For one, not only does it keep the area clean–something those using your lot will appreciate–but it also helps to keep the drainage systems clear. If those drainage systems are clogged because of debris left on the lot, then water is going to end up standing still on the lot. Water does not like asphalt. So, to prevent the deterioration from occurring, have your lot swept regularly.

2. Install Drainage

As briefly mentioned before, you’re going to need drainage systems throughout your lot to ensure the removal of water. Unless your asphalt is covered by a roof, at some point, rain is going to come down and start to eat away at your lot. Your best defense against that is to have a drainage system that can remove the water and send it along its way.

3. Deal With Cracks

While you’re inspecting your lot for any debris or trash that needs to be removed, keep an eye out for cracks. While small cracks may seem like nothing, they are the starting point of a much larger problem. Have them sealed up or sanded down as soon as you can, so they don’t widen further and cause even more problems. You may also want to keep an eye on where the cracks are forming to see if you need another drain in the area.

4. Remove Oil

Similar to water, oil also does not like asphalt. With cars parking on your lot, it is inevitable that one of the cars will have an oil leak. Even a slight oil leak can be enough over time to erode the asphalt away. You should have the lot cleaned as much as you can before they play wreak too much havoc on your asphalt.

5. Seal It

Finally, one of the best methods you can utilize to make sure your asphalt remains in top shape and durable for years is to seal it. The recommended amount for a seal coat is every two years. However, if your lot sees a lot of action, then you should seal it more often.

With school starting, you may be eager to see your child head off to either begin their education or continue it. As a proud parent, it’s understandable that you want to show off your child’s merits. Just where does the line exist, however, between pride and boasting? Here are five ideas of items that you may choose to laminate to commemorate your child’s school year.

1. School Photo

While your child may dread the annual school photo, they’re going to love it when they grow up and leave the house. You’re going to love it, too. So, when you receive that order form to buy your photos, make sure you order one that’s fit for a place on the wall. Then just hope that your child takes the photo seriously. Or, if not, enjoy the resulting laughter for years.

2. Good Grades

A method to encourage your child to receive good grades and study hard is to keep their grades in a public space. By seeing them daily, it will motivate them to continue to study hard and perform well in school. Obviously, doing well in school will only help their future when it’s time to apply for colleges and universities. For now, however, have those good grades take a place of honor on the wall. You may even choose to use it as a reward system.

3. Letter To The Future

At some point, most children are required to write a letter to their future selves. It’s going to be adorable. Whether they receive that letter that day or it’s given to them when they graduate, be sure to keep it. Not only will it serve as a token of their youth and innocence, but it might just motivate them during their college years.

4. Field Trip Photos

Field trips are a staple of a child’s education. Even if you can’t chaperone them and share the experience with your child, you can have someone take photos. Place those photos on the wall as a talking point of your child’s adventures. Laminating them, too, will ensure that they last a long time.

5. Teacher Comments

Whether it’s on a graded piece of paper, a written letter from Parent-Teacher conferences, or something else, if you receive a glowing review from a teacher about your child, you be sure to memorialize that and place it on the wall. Your child can draw encouragement and motivation from seeing those comments from a respected authoritative figure. And when you have guests over you can show off just a little bit about how much the teacher enjoys your child in the classroom. Harmless spotlighting there.

Let’s face it: Most people can tell when their roof is in its last throes of death. Those well-worn grey tiles now are faded and disfigured, there are green or black mold spores covering a large percentage of your roof, and the plastic bucket in the attic to catch the leaking roof is in need of emptying.

While there are many components of a roof like a fascia, soffit or eaves, there are signs that your roof does need re-shingling. Here are our top five signs that it’s time to get a roofing makeover, compliments of some new, energy efficient shingles.

Sign #1: The black mold invasion. Yes, airborne mold can make a mess of your roofing shingles, which can lead to decay and other mold issues within your fascia, eaves, and many other places that these pesky fungi can reach. Whether it is green colored algae, moss or toxic black mold, it is a sign that a much-needed facelift in the form of new shingles is in order.

Sign #2: Shingle discoloration. Whether it is black, green, brown or grey, having an unsightly roof that is discolored from years of brutal winters, summer storm, or even that nasty “Derecho” can be a real problem. The great news is that in 2018, there are many high tech, high-quality, durable roofing materials available to bring a new look and added value to your home. According to SFGate.com, lighter colored roofing shingles transfer less heat to your house, which means less cost.

Sign #3: Shingle damage. Visible degradation and crumbling roof tiles are a sign that an important protector of your roof, and house — for that matter — are in need of some serious reevaluation. Bankrate.com noted about the costs of having a roof replaced that it is one of largest expenses that a homeowner can face.

Sign #4: Missing shingles. Many missing shingles that are leaving your roof looking quite spotted is a big sign that letting your roof go for much longer could lead to more extensive damage and costs.

Sign #5: Roof age. While some roofs can handle two decades of weathering, age can creep up on the homeowner. Alas, there are new, energy efficient materials that can help your roof last longer than 20 to 25 years.

These five signs that its time for a re-shingling of your roof can provide you the impetus to reach out to a quality roofing company that can give you a free estimate. Taking a pro-active approach to the condition of your roof is going to be less costly in the long run. It’s best to take action soon, than later.

Having a quality set of tires on your vehicle is extremely important. Good tires will help to give you a smooth and safe ride. When you shopping are for a new set of tires, you should consider getting all-terrain tires. There are five benefits that you will receive when you invest in a good set of all-terrain tires for your vehicle.

Safety 
One of the main reasons why you should have all-terrain tires on your vehicle is that they will make your vehicle much safer to drive. If you like to take your vehicle off-roading, you will find that having all-terrain tires as a practical necessity as they are able to maneuver your vehicle up sharp hills and through mud. Even if you do not plan on doing this, these tires will still provide you with amazing traction in harsher conditions. This includes if you are driving in snowy weather or if it is raining a lot outside.

Durability 
Along with safety, these tires are also very durable. All-terrain tires are built very strong and are built to last. They can last on your vehicle for much longer than standard tires and are able to withstand more damage as well. This helps to make them very durable in all driving conditions.

Comfortable Ride 
While all-terrain tires are very durable and provide you with a safe ride during hazardous conditions, they can also give you a more comfortable and smooth ride on normal roads. These tires are much thicker and are much more shock-absorbent than standard tires. Because of this, even when you are driving in the city or on the highway, these tires will absorb more than standard tires. This can make your ride smoother in all conditions.

Improve Car Value 
If you are considering selling your car at some point in the near future, it may be worth investing in all-terrain tires. Depending on the type of car that you have, buyers may want to see that your vehicle is equipped to handle off road conditions. If you invest in all-terrain tires, you may be able to get the entire purchase price back when you sell the vehicle due to increase demand from buyers.

Insurance Rates 
Depending on who your auto insurance provider is, you may also be able to get discounts if you have all-terrain tires on your vehicle. When you have all-terrain tires put on, your vehicle will have more traction and will be safer to drive in all different driving conditions. Because of this, you will be less likely to be involved in an accident. Insurance companies will then Factor this into their overall risk calculation and may be able to offer you an insurance discount.

If you’re traveling with a newborn or with your child for the first time, there are a few tips that can make the entire process easier for everyone involved. Here are six tips to help first-time parents.

1. Choose the right time.

If you want to avoid a cranky, fussy child on an airplane, try to stick to their regular routine. You know your child – when are they least likely to have a meltdown? You may want a very early or very late flight, or it’s possible that midday is best.

2. Find out about gate-checking guidelines for strollers.

You probably won’t be able to carry a stroller on the plane, but if you want to keep your child in the stroller for as long as possible, ask your airline if you can check it at the gate. Or, you can bring along a stroller that’s lightweight and that collapses, which you can probably bring onto the flight. If you have to check the stroller, bring along a baby sling so you can easily carry your little one while waiting for the stroller at luggage pickup.

3. Pack more supplies than you think you’ll need.

Sometimes flights get delayed, and you’ll end up waiting at the gate for longer than you expected. Or, it’s possible that your flight won’t let passengers out upon landing if there’s a storm or something else holding things up. Basically, plan to spend more time in the airport and on the plane you expect to. Keep more diapers, formula and other necessities on hand than you’ll need – it’s better than having too few.

4. Keep their ears protected.

Ear pressure is tough during a flight, especially during takeoff and while landing. Babies and children can be affected by this, and it can be pretty painful. Have your child suck on something or chew something to help ward off the pressure. While a decongestant can help, some parents don’t want to administer medicine unless their child is actually sick.

5. Consider buying a ticket for your baby.

Even though babies can often fly with their parent, which means they don’t need their own seat or ticket, it’ll be easier if you purchase a ticket for them and bring along a safety seat. You’ll need to make sure the car seat you have is approved for air travel.

6. Declare liquids you’re carrying for your baby.

Even though most liquids are limited on flights, you can have larger amounts of formula or milk if you’re traveling with a baby. Just make sure that you declare the liquids and let the agents know what you have in your carry-ons.

Always feel free to call the airline with any questions. They’ll be able to tell you about any processes new parents should know about.

Some people will put off making that credit card payment or delay savings for retirement. These little mistakes can add up to big headaches and even bigger regrets later on in life. The following are four reasons why you should be financially responsible.

1. Good financial decisions can lead to a happier relationship
Money is often cited as the number one reason for divorce. Financial issues can lead to arguments and fights that can cause a major strain in any relationship. Usually, these problems are caused by falling behind on bills and not having enough money to keep up with other monthly obligations. By working together, a couple can set up a budget and avoid financial pitfalls. A little planning can go a long way.

2. Raise a child who understands finances
Children will eventually have to work and begin to manage their own financial lives. Unfortunately, this type of education is not normally taught in high school. Therefore, kids will often learn about finances from their parents. As a parent, if you are financially irresponsible, your child will pick up your bad habits. That can lead an adult child having a hard time adjusting to financial responsibilities. By setting a good example for a child, you can raise him to become financially responsible as an adult.

3. Good financial habits can lead to a happy retirement
Most people do not have enough to retire and they are forced to work well into their 70s and sometimes their 80s. The number one reason why most people can not retire is not that they did not have sufficient income, it is because they did not save for retirement while they were young. By saving at least 10% if your income, and placing it in a low-cost index fund, you can be well on your way to funding a stable and happy retirement.

4. Good financial decisions can lower stress
Ask most people what stresses them out the most and you’ll most likely get “money” as the number one answer. Stress is often cited as one of the causes of high blood pressure which can lead to a stroke or a heart attack. Making smart financial decisions, such as paying off credit card debts and avoiding outlandish purchases, can not only help your finances, it can help you keep your stress levels in check.

Being financially responsible can not only help your bank account, it can help your kids, your relationship, and your own body. Have a plan for your money each month and stay ahead of bills and credit card payments. With a little financial responsibility, you can enjoy a long and happy life.

Moving to a new location is an excellent way to begin living as a minimalist. As you are packing for the move, use these six tips to reduce the number of your possessions.

Minimalist Packing Tip 1: Remove Everything From Your Closets and Cupboards

You probably don’t know how many items you own, but the best way to understand what you have is by removing everything from your current home’s cupboards and closets. After stacking all of your books, CDs and DVDs in one location, you will be amazed at how much stuff you have.

Minimalist Packing Tip 2: Look At Each Time Carefully

In addition to having too much stuff, you may have things that have degraded or broken. If you have a drawer filled with ancient electronics that you no longer use, then you can recycle the items at a disposal site, or you can give these things away to a charitable organization.

Minimalist Packing Tip 3: Consider the Cost Of Moving Your Possessions

If you have a lot of money, then hiring a professional mover is easy, but you may not want to spend thousands of dollars moving old furniture and appliances. In some cases, it can cost more to move your old possessions than it costs to replace items. In addition, you should have a concern about your possessions becoming damaged during the moving process, leading to additional costs for repairs.

Minimalist Packing Tip 4: How Big Is Your New Apartment or Home?

When you are downsizing into a smaller home or apartment, consider how much you can pack. If you have a complete living room set of furniture, then you may not have room for all of the pieces in a much smaller home. You also won’t have a lot of storage space in the kitchen cupboards or bedroom closets.

Minimalist Packing Tip 5: Do You Use the Items That You Have?

When you have boxes of items that you never use, there is no reason to clutter your new home with the containers. You may have the bad habit of tossing your mementos into plastic totes rather throwing the items away. If you have boxes of junk that you haven’t looked at in several years, then give yourself permission to throw the items away.

Minimalist Packing Tip 6: Choose a Maximum Number Of Boxes To Move 

You can pack like a minimalist if you decide to fill only a certain number of containers for your move. If you are a single adult, then you might want to move only 20 plastic totes or cardboard boxes. When you have other people who are moving with you, plan on providing additional containers for their possessions.

When shopping for gun-related products online, take a few extra precautions than you would normally take. Although it is completely legal to buy sights, magazines, holsters, and a plethora of other gun-related products online, there is always a gray area that can cause trouble. Before you begin shopping for your goodies online, consider these five tips and use them to ensure a smooth buying experience.

1- Familiarize Yourself With the Options

Familiarize yourself with the various accessories and their average costs to avoid overpaying for goods. Learn more about the brands, their level of expertise in the industry, and the quality of the product they produce. Knowledge is power. Never assume that a retailer is honest and looking to build a long list of satisfied clients.

2- Search for Deals

If you like to save money, do not shop before you find the deals and offers that are available. Many coupons, promotions, and special offers considerably reduce the cost of the accessories that you want to purchase. These deals are available to any shopper who wishes to use them and reduce costs considerably. To take full advantage of special savings, join email newsletter lists and special clubs, use your favorite search engine to scour for offers, and look for promotions and rebates incentives.

3- Compare the Choices

Numerous online retailers sell guns, ammunition, and other accessories for shotguns and rifles. Each retailer offers their own perks and disadvantages. It is important that you learn why you should shop with a particular retailer and then learn if the disadvantages overshadow the positive attributes. When you compare the options, it is easy to score the best prices, awesome deals, and the products that you really want to accessorize your gun!

4- Choose a Reputable Dealer

Many well-known e-commerce sites sell gun accessories, however, many people agree that it is best to purchase these items with a dealer who specializes in gun-related products instead. Compare the dealers selling products, looking for an experienced company with a good reputation. It is easy to learn more about the company by visiting their site, asking your fellow gun enthusiasts, and by reading reviews posted at various online sites. Choose a company that offers a good return policy (bearing in mind the most e-commerce retailers do not offer return or exchange on ammunition) and honest pricing, too. Don’t forget the importance of good customer service and prompt professionals helping with your purchase.

5- Buying a Firearm?

Expect a thorough background check when buying a gun online. More than 130,000 federal firearm licensed holders sell weapons online and require this check. Private purchase sells do not require a background check. You must be at least 18 years old to purchase ammunition and at least 21 years old to buy a gun. The weapon is sent to the nearest licensed dealer. You cannot purchase a state other than the state you reside.

Most goods are available at wholesale prices for people who are willing to look for them, and health care items are no exception. There are quite a few reasons to make an effort to find health care items at those prices, especially for people who can predict the rate at which they use the products.

Dealing with Discontinuation

It is fairly common for health care items to get discontinued, especially for soaps and other items that can come in a variety of scents, colors, and other varieties. Seeking out wholesale goods will lower the price to the point that most people can stock up before they get discontinued, which will make sure that they have enough time to find an acceptable replacement before they run out of the one that they are accustomed to using.

Saving Money

The simplest reason to seek out wholesale items is saving money. Most stores will get their goods from a wholesaler and add a significant markup before sale so that they can make a profit even if those products spend a long time sitting on a shelf. Wholesale goods avoid that extra markup, which can lead to massive savings for the consumer.

Disaster Preparation

It can be wise to keep a large supply of bandages, allergy medication, and other health care items around in case of a disaster. That can be expensive, and it can be difficult to get a sufficient supply through traditional stores. Buying at wholesale prices will usually avoid both of those problems, which makes it possible to make it through any kind of shortage without running out of crucial supplies. This isn’t appropriate for items that have short expiration dates, but it works well with anything that can last for a long time without losing any quality.

Experimentation

Wholesale prices make it possible to experiment with new products for long enough to get a good feel for how they work without wasting money. That can be useful for any type of health item, but it will most often help when picking out shampoo, cleansers, and other items that perform differently with different skin or body types.

Sharing

It can be a good idea to team up with other shoppers to get the discounts that can come with bulk purchases, and it is always best to seek out wholesale rates when doing so. That ensures that everybody can get the best price possible, which makes it more likely that they will be willing to work together again in the future. In the long run, this can ensure that everyone gets the health items that they need at the most affordable price possible.