Author: Nicholas Blackburn

Remodeling the bathroom can be one of the most expensive home improvement projects, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Check out these clever ideas to give your bathroom a new look without flushing funds down the toilet.

The cheapest way to make your bathroom feel bigger is not changing the footprint, but rather by adding a light paint color or incorporating larger mirrors.

1. Paint the Floors

A fresh coat of paint goes a long way in any room, but it’s especially effective in the bathroom. Not only can it change the look of the space, but it’s also one of the cheapest remodeling ideas for bathrooms on a budget. Whether you choose a darker hue to make the room feel bigger or a lighter shade that brightens it up, this easy DIY project will breathe new life into your bathroom for an affordable price.

For a budget-friendly and stylish upgrade, swap out your old flooring for a more modern option. If you’re worried about the cost of ripping out your tile and replacing it with something more durable, check your local Facebook Marketplace or flea markets to see if anyone is selling their old flooring for cheap. These secondhand options are not only a cheaper alternative to buying new floors but they’ll add an antique touch to your bathroom remodel.

Another great way to update the look of your bathroom is to cover up dated tile with faux marble contact paper-like film. It won’t last forever, but it will give you the luxury of real marble for a fraction of the price. Just be sure to test it out in your bathroom first to make sure it holds up to humidity and other bathroom elements before making the switch.

2. Paint the Walls

Repainting is an easy, relatively inexpensive way to change the look of your bathroom. Start by scrubbing your walls down and prepping them with some simple sanding and cleaning before you paint. You’ll want to use a high-quality paint that can withstand moisture and is water-resistant. This will keep your bathroom looking new longer.

White is a popular bathroom color, as it creates a light and airy feel and shows up well against dark fixtures and accessories. But don’t be afraid to go a little bolder! Dark colors like navy or charcoal can add drama and moody elegance to your bath, while soft neutrals like gray or green can brighten up the space.

If you’re ready for a bigger remodel, consider replacing your vanity cabinetry and doors. You can find affordable options on Facebook Marketplace and online that will give your room a fresh, modern update.

If you really can’t afford to buy new cabinets, you can paint them instead. This is a DIY project that requires some skill and patience, but it’s a great way to refresh your bathroom on a budget. The key to a good bathroom paint job is thorough prep, which includes repairing any cracks or nail holes, sanding, and priming. Once you’re ready to begin, it’s best to start with the ceiling, then move down to the base trim and doors, then the walls.

3. Add a Subway Tile Accent Wall

While many people still associate subway tile with white rectangles that measure three by six inches, this versatile design element is available in a variety of shapes, colors, and finishes. Using a simple accent wall can transform your bathroom into a show-stopper and allow you to showcase a special vanity or gorgeous soaking tub. A monochromatic tile and grout color scheme can also be an elegant choice, especially when paired with gold or matte black features.

From herringbone to chevron to basket weave, playing with patterns adds visual interest to any bathroom design. In this HGTV Rock the Block bathroom, designer David Bromstad used our Mallorca Black Ceramic Subway Tile to create an eye-catching layout. He stacked the tiles horizontally and topped them with shoe molding and a cap trim to create a classic wraparound installation that ties the room together.

If you’re ready to take a bigger design risk, try mixing two-toned tile in your bathroom. While a full-scale, multi-color tile floor may not be practical for your bathroom (especially if you have small kids), smaller spaces can easily handle a bolder look. You can even use a combination of contrasting tiles to create an accent wall, as this beautiful bathroom by Burchard Design Co. does with its white subway tile and black hexagonal accents. When paired with a sleek countertop, the result is a stunning bathroom that’s sure to impress. Come and see what else the leading bathroom renovators Brisbane has to offer!

4. Paint Shutters

Everyday use can take a toll on bathroom ideas, but a few simple updates are a cost-effective way to refresh your suite. A lick of paint, storage upcycle or new accessories can have big impact for small outlay. To save even more money, fit moisture-resistant MDF wall panelling instead of tiles. These DIY materials can be painted to match your scheme and are a lot quicker and easier to install.

MDF boards are also much cheaper than traditional exterior paint and can be cut to size with a utility knife. A quick coat of primer will prepare the surface and give you a smoother paint finish. Then it’s just a matter of applying one or two coats of high-quality exterior paint, like Glidden Premium Exterior.

Before you start painting, it’s a good idea to sand the shutters down to bare wood. This will blunt any gloss on the surface and make it a lot easier for the paint to adhere. Then apply a coat of oil-based primer, like Glidden Primer, to ensure the paint sticks and then an exterior water-based paint, such as a latex, satin or semi-gloss, in your chosen color.

If you’re tackling a large area, an airless sprayer is the fastest and best option, as it will create a professional-looking finish with minimum effort. You can rent these at most home improvement stores. Alternatively, use a high-quality brush and plenty of patience to achieve the same effect.

5. Cover Up Peeling Countertops with Faux Marble

Marble is elegant, stylish and brings a sense of sophistication to the room. Unfortunately, it can also be quite expensive. If you love the look of marble but aren’t ready to make the investment, you can cover your countertops with faux marble instead.

The first thing you’ll want to do is clean your countertops thoroughly (inside and out) with a cleaner that’s intended for degreasing. This will ensure that the surface is free of oil and grease so the contact paper will adhere properly.

Once your counters are clean, you’ll need to choose the color of marble you want to use for your countertop. Then you’ll need to buy a roll of contact paper that matches your chosen shade. Before you apply the contact paper, make sure you have a brush that’s a bit smaller than the size of your countertops. You’ll need this to paint the veins of the marble.

To create the veins, dip a sponge into the lighter gray paint and paint some long marble veins on your counters. Once the marble is dry, you can then go over it with a bit of white to add some depth. This is the finishing touch that makes your counters look real.

6. Add Storage

One of the fastest ways to transform a bathroom is to add storage. After all, when you can easily access everything you need, the room feels less cluttered and more like your own private spa.

For maximum space-saving impact, try to think vertically rather than horizontally when adding shelving or ledges. This trick works best for bathrooms with taller ceilings, such as those in master suites or guest rooms, but you can also create a sleek look by tucking in shelves under a window or above your sink. The key is to choose narrow shelves that don’t stick out so far they become a safety hazard.

If you have a linen closet but still need more storage space in your bath, opt for a wall-mounted rack that offers individual open cubbies to stash towels, washcloths, and other small items. Heavier linens and robes can go in the bottom, while lighter products like cotton balls and Q-tips can sit on top for easy reach.

Floating shelves are another smart way to create additional storage, especially in small spaces where floor space is limited. These handy ledges are perfect for storing cosmetics and cleaning products, but they can also double as decorative elements that tie your bath’s style together. For example, the woven baskets in this bath designed by House of Chais add a subtle yet stylish touch while helping to keep the countertop free of clutter.

Long-form content is no longer just for academic papers and books. It is a powerful marketing tool that can boost return traffic, brand searches and user engagement.

Complete guides and in-depth articles that teach a new skill or explain a topic in detail demonstrate your expertise and build trust. They can also attract other brands to backlink.

1. It’s Longer

Many marketers may be nervous about making long-form content a core part of their strategy because of the attention spans of modern audiences. Those worries are legitimate, but it’s important to remember that long-form doesn’t have to be a standalone piece of content. In fact, you can take one epic blog post and use it as the raw material for multiple pieces of content, thereby getting more value out of your time and resources.

For example, you could turn your 7-,500-word article on how to run a SaaS startup into an audio podcast, a SlideShare presentation, and a webinar, just to name a few possibilities. That way, you’ll reach a wider audience with your message and position yourself as an authority on the subject.

There’s also a perception that long-form content has more credibility than short pieces. That’s because longer posts typically feature more in-depth research and thorough analysis, which are qualities that search engines look for in high-quality, authoritative content.

In addition, the amount of information you provide has a direct impact on how long people spend on your site and the likelihood that they will return in the future. This is known as dwell time and it is another factor that influences organic ranking on Google.

Of course, this is only true if your long-form content truly provides value. If it’s a rambling flufff piece that does nothing to add to the discussion, it’ll be ignored by both readers and search engines alike. That’s why it’s essential to focus on creating high-quality, comprehensive content that will answer your audience’s questions and inspire them to keep reading. By doing so, you’ll set yourself up for success in the long-term.

2. It’s More In-Depth

Long form content has a tendency to be more in-depth and comprehensive. This means that you can cover a topic in greater detail, making it more likely to rank higher on search engine results pages (SERPs). This is especially true if you have a thorough keyword research strategy, which includes finding long tail keywords. It also helps if you add visuals to your long-form posts. People tend to respond to visuals more than they do to words alone. So don’t be afraid to break your articles up with some photos, illustrations, and videos.

This type of content is also more likely to get quality backlinks from authoritative sites, which will improve your domain authority over time. Long-form articles also have a tendency to have lower bounce rates, which is another factor that can help you improve your ranking on SERPs.

When it comes to creating long-form content, the key is to focus on serving your readers and providing them with value. If your content doesn’t offer value or solve a problem, you will not be able to capture reader attention and keep them on your site.

For example, if your blog post is about how to start a business but fails to offer any valuable information, then you will not be able to keep readers interested. On the other hand, if your article is a comprehensive guide on how to start a business, it will be much more helpful and will keep readers engaged.

When it comes to long-form content, the best thing you can do is make sure that your content is organized and has a logical flow. It’s also important to avoid keyword stuffing, which can make your article look spammy and reduce its SEO value. Instead, try to incorporate your target keyword naturally throughout the piece and use it in a way that will be beneficial to your audience.

3. It’s More Comprehensive

Long-form content makes good SEO sense as it gives you the opportunity to include multiple keywords across an entire topic. This allows you to target a wider range of search intents and attract more relevant traffic, increasing your organic rankings over time. This kind of content also gives you the chance to demonstrate your expertise in a field and build trust with your audience, resulting in more conversions and sales down the line. You can opt to reach out to an SEO agency in Sydney to help you start out strong.

However, before you start drafting a lengthy post, it’s important to do your research. Find out what’s currently ranking for your chosen keyword and how much competition there is. This will give you a good idea of how long an article you should aim for, and whether you should include any supplemental or supporting content to make it as comprehensive as possible.

When it comes to creating long-form content, the most important thing is to focus on the needs of your audience. This means adding value to the industry by presenting new ideas, clarifying complex concepts and making life easier for your reader.

Additionally, you should ensure that your content is easy to read and digest by including visuals wherever possible. This can be done through photos, infographics or even video. Humans are drawn to visuals and tend to lose interest if paragraphs of text are all they see. Try to break up the text into smaller chunks by using sub-headings and incorporating a table of contents at the beginning.

If you want to capture leads, it may be worth creating a gated version of your content, such as an eBook or whitepaper, which requires a visitor to provide their email address before they can access it. This will allow you to collect qualified leads and follow them down your marketing funnel.

4. It’s More Actionable

If you write a long piece of content that is truly valuable and informative, then readers will naturally spend time on it. And when they do, it’s likely that your website will rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs). That’s because Google takes into account factors like “time on site” when ranking websites – and long articles often have high “time on site” metrics.

In addition, if you create high-quality long-form content that answers a specific question, then you can often rank for featured snippets in SERPs. These are the articles that appear at the top of the page when someone searches a particular query. These are coveted positions because they drive more clicks and can increase the visibility of your website.

To increase the chance of your content ranking for a specific query, do some keyword research ahead of time and focus on finding low-competition keywords that are relevant to your topic. Then, throughout your article, try to incorporate those keywords in the natural flow of the content. If possible, make them part of the title and subheadings, too.

It’s also important to include a table of contents at the beginning of your long-form content so that readers can easily find the section they need to read. And remember to use images in your posts – these can improve readability and add visual interest to your content.

Finally, it’s a good idea to promote your long-form content on social media before it goes live. You can also offer gated versions of the content that require an email address or login to view. This can help you get more leads and build trust with your audience.

5. It’s More Accessible

Long-form content does well for SEO because it provides value to the reader. This value is largely in the form of information and knowledge, but can also be an emotional connection or even a sense of accomplishment. When you produce valuable content, readers will reward you by sharing the content with their networks — and this is another great way to drive traffic to your site.

To make sure that your long-form content delivers value, start by identifying the search intent of the topic you are covering. This will help you create an outline and ensure that your content is structured in a way that makes it easy for users to understand. The best way to do this is by using headings, paragraphs, and sections. You should also include visuals when possible to break up large blocks of text and make your content more digestible.

A great example of long-form content is this comprehensive guide on social media marketing from HubSpot. This post is well organized with each section covering a different aspect of social media marketing and has an easy-to-read format. It is also highly actionable and includes plenty of helpful tips that any marketer can implement right away.

Additionally, the article is optimized for search by including the correct keywords and by utilizing an informative title and snippet. This ensures that the article will be shown in the SERPs for relevant searches, which is important for any piece of content.

To create your own long-form content, first research your competitors and identify what type of content is performing best. Then, figure out what your audience wants to know about the topic and structure your content accordingly. Also, be sure to use a variety of promotion strategies to reach out to your target audience and encourage them to read the content.

There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing roofing materials for your home. You need to look at cost, lifespan and warranty options to make the best choice for your property.

Asphalt shingles are the most common type of residential roof material in the U.S. They come in architectural and luxury styles.

1. Local Roofing Contractors

If you want a roofing material that will stand up to the elements and last for years to come, a local roofing contractor is your best bet. These professionals know the local climate and common problems that homeowners in your area face, so they can adjust their work to suit your needs. Not only that, contractors from Warwick roofing companies have the best deals on high-quality roofing materials.

They are also well-versed in local building codes and can handle projects with compliance in mind. They can also help you choose the best shingle type for your home.

The roof is the most visible part of your home, so it is important to get a quality product that will last for a long time. This will not only help keep your home safe from the elements, but it will also give you peace of mind knowing that you can count on a local contractor to install your new roof.

Local companies often have an extensive network of materials suppliers and contractors, so they can easily locate the materials you need when you need them. This saves you time and money.

It is a good idea to compare quotes from several local contractors before making your decision. This way, you can find out which contractor is the most cost-effective.

You should also look for a contractor that is licensed, bonded and insured. These documents are required by law to protect you and ensure that the company you hire is responsible if something goes wrong.

Lastly, you should check their references. This is an excellent way to see how they treat their customers and whether or not they do quality work.

If a local company has no references, it is a good sign that they are not reputable. If they don’t have a good reputation in your area, it is best to avoid them at all costs.

The best way to determine if a roofing contractor is trustworthy is to ask for a list of referrals from other homeowners in your area. The most reliable contractors will have a large number of referrals, and this will be a great indication that they are reputable.

2. Home Improvement Stores

Whether you are a DIYer or need to hire a contractor, there are many places where you can find quality roofing materials. These include local hardware stores, big box home improvement stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot, and online retailers.

When it comes to finding the right roofing materials, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you should pick the material that best suits your needs and budget. You should also consider what type of maintenance you expect to have to do after the job is done.

The most common roofing materials include asphalt shingles, cedar shingles, clay tiles and metal sheets. Some of these materials are more durable than others, but they all offer different benefits to homeowners.

For example, metal roofs are extremely durable, low-maintenance and can add a sense of class and sophistication to any home. They are also available in a variety of colors and styles.

Another option is rolled roofing, which is an inexpensive option for home remodelers on a budget. It is a lightweight, easily installed alternative to traditional shingle and slate roofing. It can be hammered into place and is usually easier to install on lower-incline roofs.

Lastly, it is important to seal the roof to prevent water leaks. There are several good options, including butyl tape and Geocel 4350. Both of these products are readily available at most home improvement stores and can be applied using a caulk gun.

The most popular retailers for home improvement supplies are Lowe’s, Home Depot, and Ace Hardware. These chains are primarily located in the United States and have a wide range of merchandise.

Despite the challenges faced by the industry, customer satisfaction among major home improvement stores has never been higher. According to J.D. Power’s 2022 U.S. Home Improvement Retailer Satisfaction Study, the industry saw an increase in customer satisfaction scores by 22 points. The survey measured customer satisfaction based on five factors: staff and service, store facility, merchandise, price and sales promotions.

3. Online

The best place to find quality roofing materials isn’t necessarily your local home improvement store. In fact, there are a number of online sources for everything from roof repair products to custom roofing options. These sites offer competitive pricing, helpful customer service and convenient shopping experiences that are as painless as it gets. You can also compare and contrast the latest and greatest from a range of reputable manufacturers. The best part? Most of these companies are willing to match their competitor’s prices on the same product, making it a win-win for you and your wallet. In addition, you can often find free estimates from the competition. For example, you might be able to get an estimate from one of the top roofing contractors in your area without having to pay for an appraisal. This can save you time, money and the dreaded hassle of getting a home inspection. Of course, if you’re looking for a more personalized experience you can always give the experts a call.

4. Local Roofing Supply Companies

Whether you’re looking for new roofing materials to install on your home or want to replace an old roof, it’s important to choose quality products. Choosing the wrong material could cause damage to your home or make it difficult to maintain over time.

There are many options for roof materials, including asphalt shingles, metal roofing, terracotta tiles and membrane roofing. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, so you need to determine which type of roofing is best for your area.

Shingles are the most popular type of roof, and for good reason: They are inexpensive, durable and relatively easy to install. Moreover, they come in a variety of colors and styles. They also provide decent insulation.

They can last 15 to 30 years with proper care. Some brands even offer warranties that last for a lifetime, but it’s important to read the fine print.

Metal Roofing is another popular choice, with a range of styles and colors. Some metals are made to reflect the sun’s rays, keeping your house cooler in summer.

A metal roof is more expensive than an asphalt shingle, but it can save you money on energy costs and reduce your carbon footprint. It’s also long-lasting and can add a lot of curb appeal to your home.

It can be difficult to find a contractor who installs metal roofs, so it’s important to look for someone with experience. A local roofing supply company may be able to help you find someone who specializes in installing metal roofs.

Some local roofing supply companies are also able to provide homeowners with dumpster rentals, making it easier to clean up after a project. These services are available for both residential and commercial projects.

When searching for a local roofer, ask your friends and family for recommendations. It’s important to select a contractor with a good reputation and a few years of experience.

The best roofing supply companies will carry a wide selection of products for your project, and they’ll be able to provide you with advice and suggestions on which materials will work the best for your home. They’ll also be able to answer any questions you might have about your roof’s installation or maintenance.

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, but it’s also something that often gets overlooked. A neglected roof can lead to a number of issues, including water damage and mold growth.

To ensure your roof is in optimal condition, it’s essential to conduct regular inspections. This will help catch any issues early on to avoid further damage and costly repairs down the road.

Clean Your Gutters

Gutters play a crucial role in routing storm and rain water away from the roof, walls and foundation of your home. If they become clogged with debris, it could lead to mold growth, a leaking roof or water damage to the interior or exterior of your home.

A homeowner must be proactive about gutter maintenance to prevent these problems. The best way to do this is to clean your gutters at least twice a year, particularly after heavy rainfall or snowfall.

How often you need to clean your gutters will depend on the amount of leaves, twigs and other debris that accumulates in them. If there are lots of leaves in the gutters, they can clog the system and cause costly issues down the road.

To clean your gutters safely and efficiently, you need a ladder, a bucket and a gutter scoop or a garden trowel. A few trash bags will help you collect the debris and gunk you pull out of your gutters during the cleaning process.

Another option for cleaning your gutters is to use a gutter-cleaning wand that attaches to a hose and has a curved end that you can use to direct water pressure against obstructed gutters or downspouts. These devices are available at home improvement stores and online retailers and can save you from climbing up the ladder to manually clean your gutters.

If you do not have a gutter-cleaning wand, you can also remove the buildup of debris using a power washer with a fine-spray nozzle. You may need to rinse the roof and siding afterward, but this is a quick and easy way to get rid of a layer of dirt and debris that has built up over time.

Once you have removed most of the debris, run a hose down your gutters and downspouts to flush them out and make sure they are working properly. If you are unsure, contact a roofing professional to inspect your gutters.

Aside from trees and foliage, wildlife like squirrels, chipmunks and birds have a knack for clogging up your gutters. These animals will place acorns, sticks and other nesting materials in your gutters, which can make them clog even faster than leaves.

Trim Tree Branches

When it comes to the upkeep of your roof, there are a few things that homeowners must do to keep their homes and their roofing in good shape. One of the most important is cleaning up the debris that collects on their roof. This includes leaves, sticks and other items that can clog your gutters and cause damage to the shingles on your roof.

Another thing that needs to be done is trimming tree branches that are hanging over your roof. This is particularly important if you live in an area where storms can cause a lot of damage to your roof. Trimming these branches can also help prevent animals from getting into your house.

Most deciduous trees need little pruning once they’re established in your yard. However, there are some situations when you’ll need to prune a branch to remove a dead limb, or diseased growth.

The best time to prune is in mid to late winter, when deciduous trees are dormant and the branches are easier to spot. In fact, some trees bleed sap when pruned in the winter, but this is not harmful and will stop as soon as the tree puts on its spring growth.

When pruning a branch, make sure that you’re making accurate cuts. The wrong cut can actually kill a tree, so it’s crucial that you know what to do and how to do it correctly.

Start by making a clean, precise cut right underneath the branch that you’re trying to trim. This is known as a flush cut, and you want to leave the stem tissue called the collar intact.

You’ll see the collar on most trees as a small swelled-up area around the base of the branch. The key is to make a cut slightly beyond this collar but close enough that you don’t leave a stub behind. This stimulates the stem tissue to grow over and seal the wound.

Once you’ve made a flush cut, you can move onto the next step. To do this, you’ll need to saw down a second cut about an inch further out from your first.

Inspect the Flashing

Flashing is one of the most important parts of any roofing system. If it’s not installed properly, it can lead to leaks that can damage your home and its contents. This is why it’s so important to inspect your roof on a regular basis. Palmdale roofing contractors emphasize the importance of inspecting carefully instead of just haphazardly looking around.

During your inspection, take note of any missing or displaced flashing, as well as any other areas that might need repairs. This will help you identify areas that need to be addressed before a leak occurs.

Valley Flashing — This is the most common type of roof flashing, which is usually installed along roof valleys and where two roofing planes meet. It acts as a barrier, stopping rainwater from crossing from one plane and under another. If valley flashing is displaced or missing, water can run down the side of your roof and into a crevice underneath it.

Counter Flashing — This is another common roof flashing that’s often installed incorrectly by some roofers. It’s important to install this correctly so that water can run off the roof and out of the chimney without entering your home.

Kick Out Flashing — This is a specific type of flashing that’s supposed to be installed where a roof edge meets a vertical wall. The flashing should be angled so that water running down the roof deck can be deflected away from the wall and into a gutter.

When your roof is leaking, it’s crucial to inspect all the flashing. This will help you find the root of the problem and eliminate it before it worsens.

The best way to inspect your roof’s flashing is to take your time and look at each area individually. This will help you recognize if there are any areas that need to be repaired, or if you need to replace the flashing altogether.

During your inspection, keep an eye out for any missing or displaced flashing, as this can lead to leaks that can damage your property and its contents. This will also help you identify areas that need to be addressed, before a leak occurs.

Clean the North Side of Your Roof

When it comes to roof maintenance, the north side of your house is often overlooked. But this side of the roof is particularly prone to damage.

This is because the roof is usually shaded from the sun and this creates an ideal environment for algae to grow on your shingles. It is also very common for gutters to drain directly onto the roof, which encourages moisture build up on this area of your home’s roofing system.

If you notice black streaks on your shingle roof or green mossy growth, you may be suffering from a type of roof mold called gloeocapsa magma. This is common in humid areas of the country, and it will only appear on the north side of your roof.

The best way to get rid of these streaks is by cleaning your roof. This will remove any algae spores that have settled in and prevent them from coming back.

You can use a simple solution of water and bleach to clean your roof. You should spray this on your shingles using a pump-type garden sprayer and let the mixture soak for about ten minutes before rinsing.

Alternatively, you can also use oxygen bleach, which uses hydrogen peroxide instead of sodium hypochlorite as an oxidizer. The liquid or powdered form of this is much more environmentally friendly than regular household bleach, and it attacks the algae directly, thereby taking away the stains.

Another alternative to traditional cleaning is a product like Spray and Forget or Wet and Forget, which can be purchased from most hardware stores, poured into a garden sprayer and applied directly from the ground, or even from a ladder or the edge of the gutter. These products are safe and effective, but will take 3-6 months to fully clean your roof.

Another way to help stop the growth of lichen and moss is to install a strip of copper or zinc-coated sheet metal along each side of the roof just below the ridge. The water that runs off these strips contains minute traces of metal that keep the algae from growing. This solution can be a little costly but is worth it for the long term health of your roof.