According to statistics from the CDC, approximately 48 million people in the country are affected by food-borne diseases. Bacteria such as salmonella and E.coli, found in water and food, are the primary causes of people getting severely ill from food-borne conditions. One major reason for this spread is improper handling and sanitation practices. Thus, when handling food preparation and disposal, it is important to avoid sanitation mistakes to prevent health concerns and address safety issues. Not properly disposing of waste To avoid pests and other environmental hazards, people need to make sure the waste is being properly disposed of. Discarding hazardous materials without securing garbage bags properly can pose a substantial risk to the health and safety of people and the environment. To avoid these potential risks, people need to ensure that the garbage bags are tied up tightly and there are fewer chances of potential spills and contamination. Medical waste, harmful chemicals, and other biohazard disposal need to follow proper regulations. Inadequate personal hygiene Maintaining the right hygiene practices is essential when trying to prevent respiratory bacteria and viruses from spreading. For example, not covering the nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing can be considered unhygienic because it can contribute to the transmission of illnesses to other people nearby.

Windows and doors are an important part of a house, ensuring security, insulation, and aesthetic appeal. Over time, these components may face wear and tear and need replacements. One is advised to replace windows and doors if they detect problems to not only improve comfort and ventilation but also to save energy bills and enhance the overall value of the property. Here are 7 signs that indicate one may need new windows or doors: Increasing electricity bills If one has noticed an abnormal spike in electricity bills recently or needs to adjust the heating or air-conditioning, it may be because of faulty windows. One is advised to test the windows by feeling for drafts on a cold day or by placing a burning lamp nearby to check for leaks. Any coolness or light seepage suggests poor insulation. In this case, one may need to go for window replacement. It’s best to opt for energy-efficient options or heat-insulating windows for best results. Visible damage to the frame Door frames or window frames may deteriorate as the material ages, whether it is glass or wood. This is mainly because they are exposed to harsh weather conditions like excessive heat and humidity. This can cause visible damage to the frame, including chipped paint, scrapes, and scratches.

Building a garden from scratch is a joyous journey that often becomes a moment of pride for homeowners. From choosing the right plants to understanding where to place them, this process can be tricky. Making the wrong choices here could result in a garden that appears too cluttered or disorganized. Continue reading to learn more about common garden renovation mistakes and how to avoid them to build a space that stands out. Buying only flowering plants One of the most common mistakes people make when redoing their gardens is adding too many flowering plants. While these may present a picturesque scene during spring, the garden will end up looking pale and dull through the rest of the year. It could also impact the overall appeal of one’s home. To avoid this, try to pick a variety of plants for the garden that give it a vibrant look all year round. Think of evergreen leaves, summer blossoms, spring colors, and berries in the autumn. Not only will this create a more functional garden, but it will also add some depth by using contrasting shapes and colors. Using too many intricate shapes and designs While picking intricate designs sounds like a great idea to elevate the garden’s look, maintaining it can be challenging.

Doors and windows protect homes and offices from harsh environmental conditions. However, weather conditions can affect their structural integrity and functionality over time, leading to decreased efficiency and more frequent maintenance and repairs. When there are clear indications that doors and windows are no longer serving their purpose, it is important to consider replacing them with new ones. Let us know a few signs that suggest replacing existing doors and windows. Hard to open and close When an individual faces problems while locking or unlocking the doors and windows, it is a sign that indicates a replacement. The same applies to faulty doors and windows if they create difficulty opening or closing. If the issue is not fixable with some maintenance or minor repairs, one must consider replacing them. Old structure If there is any deterioration to the structure, consider it a sign that the house requires new doors and windows. These apparent signs can be present in the form of peeling, staining, or cracking. In most cases, painting the doors and windows can solve the problem. However, there are some issues that a coat of paint won’t fix. In such cases, one must consult a professional to examine doors and windows before deciding to get them replaced.

Renovating the garden can be a gratifying experience because it gives homeowners a chance to enjoy a beautiful landscape. However, it involves more than just trimming the grass. One must also carefully consider factors like the choice of furniture and placement of plants. Neglecting any aspect of a home garden can make the space appear unsightly, detracting from one’s ability to enjoy it. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when renovating a garden. Choosing the wrong location for plants At the time of garden renovation, homeowners must ensure they choose the right location for their plants. Different plants have different needs regarding sunlight, shade, and drainage. So, to ensure that all their plants thrive, one must select the ideal location for every plant in the garden. For instance, the plants that need plenty of sunlight must be in a more open area in the garden where they receive adequate sunlight. Homeowners must also ensure that their garden has proper drainage so they don’t face any issues after watering their plants. Choosing furniture that is not weatherproof Choosing the right type of patio furniture is essential when renovating a garden. Since the furniture will be placed outdoors, it must be highly resistant to weather elements and harsh sunlight.

The growing issue of water scarcity is no secret. With the rise of global warming and the ever-growing demand for natural resources, this problem poses a significant threat to humanity. While governments and other international bodies tackle this at a global scale, there are plenty of steps one can take to avoid water waste at a personal level. Read on to learn about five mistakes to avoid to prevent water shortages and other related problems. Failing to fix leaks Leaks in the showers, faucets, and even the toilet could result in the wastage of over 100 gallons of water per day. Not only can this rack up one’s water bills, but it can also cause significant environmental damage. Start by fixing all the leaks around the house. Not investing in rainwater harvesting Employing sustainable water management techniques at home can also be a great way to save water and reduce one’s bills. One way to do this is by setting up rainwater harvesting equipment. This process can allow the water table to recharge by moving the surface water to groundwater. Those who aren’t keen on setting up major equipment in their homes can invest in a rain barrel or a water butt to collect and conserve rainwater and reduce utility bills.

Water shortage is a serious issue that not only affects daily activities but also has long-term consequences on health and the availability of resources. Wastage of water is one of the key factors worsening the problem. However, one may not always realize they are using up excessive amounts of water, much more than they need. So, here are a few mistakes to recognize and avoid to prevent water wastage and shortage: 1. Delaying fixing leaks One should avoid ignoring leaks, even if they seem minor. Even small leaks in faucets and old pipes can lead to the wastage of up to 50 gallons of water daily. So, it is crucial to fix all kinds of leaks as soon as possible. 2. Not harvesting rainwater Rainwater harvesting involves collecting and storing rainwater for daily usage. It allows one to have extra usable water at hand along with their regular supply. To start this practice, one can look for rainwater harvesting tanks and systems they can install in their house. 3. Not choosing water-efficient bathroom accessories Installing water-efficient bathroom accessories is a great way to prevent over-usage of water in homes. Such accessories restrict or limit the flow of water to avoid wastage.

Roofing is a complicated process for beginners and those who cannot do a DIY. One should also not do it if one is unaware of the basics, so it is recommended to consult experts to avoid problems. The better experience the roofing company has, the easier and more reliable they will be at carrying out the job. Their experience will also mean they can easily skip the common roofing mistakes one tends to make. Mismatched shingles One of the most common mistakes people make when working on roofing jobs is misaligned installation of shingles. It is one of the hallmark signs of knowing whether or not the job has been done well. A roof with misaligned shingles looks messy. In addition, it can also compromise the protection and the coverage the shingles can deliver for the property. If misaligned, it can cause numerous cracks and gaps in the structure. It allows for water to enter the property and damage the roofing. Eventually, the water starts to damage the property, resulting in unnecessary problems. Incorrect use of nails It’s important to remember that nails play a vital role in roofing. If nails are left exposed, they can erode and create holes in the shingles.

A well-constructed landscape is a great addition to a home. There are many ways to improve the area around the house, like growing plants, creating a lawn, adding a pond or water feature, and installing other designer elements that match the property. These changes make the space aesthetically pleasing for guests and increase its value in the real estate market. Here are a few landscape construction ideas anyone can explore. Vegetable garden Adding a vegetable garden to the landscape area is a practical idea that will give a colorful design element to the whole space. Homeowners can also use the vegetables that grow in the garden in different recipes. Herbs and basic vegetables like tomatoes are a good place to start. Fencing While not necessary, many people install fences around the house, especially if they have kids or pets. But fencing also doubles up as a beauty feature. A well-designed fence solves the problem of security while improving the landscape’s appearance. Multi-use area Families with children may want to have a dedicated space in the backyard where everyone can relax. One can install different structures to cater to each age group’s needs. For example, there could be a gazebo to read and talk and a play area for the kids to run around and have fun with their toys.

The basement is one room of the house that is often ignored. It usually ends up becoming a storage space for everything from extra exercise equipment to old clothes and cookware. Taking on a renovation project can help maximize this space, giving homeowners a better value for their money. However, this can be a laborious process with plenty of roadblocks on the way. Read on to learn about common basement renovation mistakes one should avoid. Opting for wooden flooring While wood looks fantastic in the rest of the home, it can spell disaster in the basement. This is because of the humid environment in the basement. When wood interacts with moisture, it could result in rapid mold and mildew growth, damaging the foundation of one’s home. Therefore, one must opt for inorganic materials like tile or concrete to receive the best value for money. Additionally, keep a check on the moisture level in the basement. If it exceeds 60%, use a dehumidifier. Ignoring soundproofing Before beginning the basement renovation project, it is important to consider the intended use of the space. Is it going to become a home theater or a gym? Will it be used as a makeshift office or a meeting room?