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When is a roof renovation permit required?

Montclair Roofing- roof repair

In recent years, there have been many changes in the field of Building Permits and Construction Execution, which have raised questions and confusion among many interested parties, about when a Building Permit is needed for a roof renovation, in which cases a Small-Scale Works Approval is needed and in which no permit is required.

Many do not know that in order to carry out renovation and minor repairs such as:

  • demolition of the inner wall,
  • insulation, roof repair,
  • conversion of a window into a balcony door,
  • construction of simple fencing – fencing, etc.,
  • a relevant permit is required from the Town Planning.

So many times the citizens pay large fines, because of a complaint from a “bad” neighbor, because they repaired their roof or because they built a fireplace, etc.

What is a Small Scale License?

The Small Scale Permit is a form of building permit, but it concerns small-scale construction works, with a project budget of up to 25,000 dollars.

For which minor repairs – and other work is a small-scale work permit required?

  • Exterior painting work or replacement of railings or repair of coatings or repair of facades using scaffolding
  • Facing cladding and replacement of glass curtains using scaffolding,
  • Construction of a pergola with a surface of more than fifty (50) sq.m. in uncovered areas, courtyards, ground floor terraces. In roofs, open spaces and open balconies, the approval of small-scale construction works is required, regardless of the surface.
  • Ventilation ducts, chimneys, solar systems installations
  • Interior layouts
  • Construction of planted rooms and planted areas
  • Installation of external thermal insulation or passive solar systems on the exteriors
  • Maintenance and repair of roofs using scaffolding
  • Simple fencing from stonework up to a height of one (1.00) meter or fencing made of lightweight field material in off-plan areas and in settlements that lack a city plan
  • Prefabricated fencing, such as barbed wire, on plots not paved in areas within the plan
  • Construction of stoves and ovens with their chimneys, for the service of professional use
  • Construction of fireplaces with their chimneys in independent properties with residential use
  • Roof reconstruction
  • Functional joining of spaces
  • Exterior thermal insulation works or roof thermal insulation in the framework of the program “Home savings“
  • Installation of autonomous heating system
  • Shelters and shelters
  • Interventions on the facades of buildings to modify or open new openings.

What documents are required?

Two types of supporting documents are required for the issuance of the Small Scale License:

  1. General Documents which accompany your file regardless of the type of work
  2. Special Documents which depend on the type of work you want to do.

What are the General Documents?

  • Application of the owner
  • Approvals of the competent services (e.g Forest Office, Architecture Council, etc.), where required
  • Technical report of an engineer
  • Cadastral certificate
  • Photos of the property
  • Copy of the Building Permit or other legal document
  • Declaration of consent of the co-owners of the property, if the works are carried out in common areas

What are the Special Documents?

The special supporting documents are submitted depending on the case. Indicatively, we mention the supporting documents for three common tasks:

  • Interior layouts with demolition of interior walls

1) Certificate from the engineer that the details of the load-bearing structure of the building are not affected.

2) Top view of the space

3) Technical Report of an engineer accompanied by sketches or drawings if required to adequately document the firing.

4) Drafting a project budget.

  • Roof Reconstruction

1) Certificate from the engineer that it has the same dimensions, that its volume does not change and that the final height of the building and the roof does not increase,

2) Top view, view and section

3) Responsible Statement of the engineer that the details of the load-bearing structure of the building are not affected

4) Statement of static adequacy by a competent engineer.

  • Construction of Pergola

1) floor plan and view

2) a copy of the topographic diagram of the building permit or the building permit if it exists or of the one attached to the legal deed, with the scaling of the facilities (Location, dimensions, distances, etc.).

3) statement of the Engineer that the ideal solid of the building is not violated.

I have arbitrariness in the building. Can I get a license or will they find my illegalities?

No. The small-scale permit can only be issued for legally existing buildings, i.e those that were built before 1955 or have a Building Permit in New Jersey or were arbitrarily settled / legalized.

Small-scale permits can also be obtained from buildings I have been permanently excluded from demolition.

In case there are arbitrariness in the building, then in order for the permit to be issued, the arbitrary ones must first be legalized based on Law.

How long does it take to issue a license?

The time of issuance of the permit from the moment the complete file with all the required supporting documents (including the approvals of the competent services e.g Forest Office, Architecture Council, where required) is submitted to the Building Service (Urban Planning) is about a week.

Do you need Engineer Study and Supervision?

The issuance of the Permit is done by the Building Service of the Municipality upon the request of the owner or by an authorized representative. In any case, however, a stamp and signature of a competent Engineer is required.

However, it is not mandatory for the engineer to supervise the work, unless the work requires the installation of scaffolding (scaffolding). In this case, the law requires the preparation by the engineer of a Safety and Health plan (SAY) and a Safety and Health File (FAY) as well as the supervision of their installation and removal by an engineer.

Of course, for other cases of work, such as the demolition of masonry or the reconstruction of a roof, etc., it would be good for the work to be monitored by an engineer, in order to have a safe and correct work.

How much does it cost?

The cost varies depending on the type of work to be implemented and this because the type of work depends on the supporting documents needed. Therefore, the interested party should first contact an engineer who will inform him about the work that will be required to submit all the supporting documents. The owner should also be aware that he is required to pay the building stamps that are calculated depending on the work to be done.

I failed to issue a Small Scale License. Do I have a problem;

Yes. You risk spontaneous arrest if you receive a complaint that you are carrying out works without a permit, while at the same time the Town Planning will be informed and they will assure you fines for the arbitrary construction that you are carrying out.

Generally the risk you take to perform the work without permission is high compared to the cost required to issue a Small Scale Work Approval.

How long does the Small Scale License last?

Valid for 12 months with the possibility of extension for another 6 months.

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Economical ways to heat your residence

Economical ways to heat your residence

The cold slowly appears and we are all looking for ways to warm up. Here comes our need for economical heating systems, as oil price has reached the heights.

We, did a research for you. We find the best ways to warm up economical and we are ready to present them to you.

Oil boiler

If you have autonomous heating and you want to use the oil boiler, although in recent years it is one of the most expensive options, you can reduce the operating costs of the system by doing some small “interventions” of low cost.

Boiler maintenance – burner

Ask your technician to set it to the minimum thermal power that can operate at high efficiency. This will save 5-15% depending on the age of the boiler. This will cost you from 100-200 euros.

Installation of a compensation system

Automatically regulates the temperature of the heating water according to the weather conditions. As the outside temperature drops, so does the heat transferred to the premises. This way you save 15-30% and the cost of installing this system is 1000-1500 euros.

Thermostatic heads

They are placed in each body separately (cost 25 € each). Thus, it is regulated according to the needs of each space. This way you save up to 30% on fuel.

Gas or LPG boiler

In this case it is good to have the thermostat at a constant temperature. The ideal temperature is between 19 and 21 degrees Celsius. Also be careful not to cover the bodies with furniture as this significantly reduces their performance.

If you can afford it, dare to change the oil boiler with a gas boiler. Its combustion causes the least possible pollution compared to all other fuels. On the other hand, natural gas is 30-35% cheaper than oil, which means that you will have depreciated in 4 years.

The pluses of natural gas:

  • Save space as it can be placed on the balcony
  • Reduced maintenance requirements
  • Automatic switching from natural gas to LPG and vice versa
  • Whether you have a gas or oil boiler, you should use radiators

Economical ways to heat your residence

Heat pump

Although the heat pump has a high installation cost, in case you are preparing your house now, it is one of the most economical options in terms of savings. It does not burn any fuel, operates on electricity and makes use of the hot air from the environment.

It can be connected to the radiators but the best option is to connect to fan coil units, which have the ability to produce both cooling and heating, which means that you do not need radiators and air conditioners, nor water heaters since with a connection you can always have hot water.

The cost of the heat pump is around 6500 euros and the time you will pay it off is 8 years.

Inverter air conditioner

For those who choose an air conditioner for your heating, prefer Inverter technology. They can be 30% more expensive than conventional air conditioners but consume 40% less energy.

It is worth noting that the Inverter is beneficial for those who use more than 1 hour a day.

The machine you choose should be suitable for the square footage of the room. If you force the machine to cover the space it will burn more electricity. Therefore, consult a specialist before making such a purchase.

Wood stove or a pellet one

A wood stove that costs around 400 euros is definitely a cheaper choice than a pellet stove that costs around 1200 euros.

Pellet, however, emits less pollutants into the atmosphere and is a recyclable material. Pellet is compressed wood or agricultural products and burns more slowly.

Heat Transmitter

The radiator operates with current with the natural flow of air. What it does do is pull down and take out the hot air. It does not dry the atmosphere while adjusting the thermostat saves energy.

Heat accumulators

These are made of firebricks and have a larger volume and are more expensive but in case they operate with the night power they make great savings. They can be set to turn on automatically at night to charge power and operate during the day with energy already stored. The already stored energy can be used 24-48 hours later with little loss.

Instant heater

This is a device that is placed next to the shower faucet and heats the bath water for as long as you have it running. The energy you save by using it is very large and definitely worth it especially if you have a large family.

Heated mat

Some of you may find it excessive but there are people who get very cold on their feet. This mat keeps the feet warm while it is also suitable for office spaces.

Using it, you isolate the cold coming from the floor, keep your feet warm and regulate your body temperature faster, especially when you are still. This mat is also ideal for your pets.

Wood-burning radiator

This is a radiator with a wooden cover, rounded corners and hidden switch connections for complete safety. It is definitely suitable for children’s rooms and you can order it with a design of your choice.

Traditional fireplace

The traditional fireplace does not offer any heating in the house. It can heat anything in front of it, but in essence, whatever hot air it puts in lets so much cold air in.

Prefer lining with firebricks and not with cast iron. The cast iron heats up quickly but freezes when the fireplace is extinguished, while the opposite happens with the firebrick.

Some tips just for your eyes

Find dry wood. They have radial cracks and their bark is easily detached. Do not burn furniture or anything other than wood intended for fireplaces.
Avoid fir and pine wood because it is dangerous. Prefer olive and oak wood because it burns longer.

Briquettes made from 100% recyclable material are twice as expensive as wood but provide 60% more heat than that. They leave no ash and have almost zero carbon dioxide emissions.
Do a good chimney sweep once a year if you use it often to avoid catching fire.

We believe we manages to inform you about all the economical ways of heating your residence. As you see there are many opportunities, so you can choose the best one fits you.

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Tips for the exterior painting of the house

Gikas Painting Service in Montclair

Exterior painting of your house is a huge job. But the rewards are great too if you choose Gikas Painting Service in Montclair .

With a minimum investment of money you extend the life of your siding and trim and increase the value of your home. Best of all, you’ll make it look like new again.

A good paint job requires countless hours of careful exterior paint preparation. Plan to devote an entire summer to prepare and paint even a medium-size house.

In this article you will find tips from professionals for the exterior painting of your home!

Tips for the exterior painting of the house

Think of the time of year

It is good to plan long before painting and to have predicted the weather pattern that you will have at the time of painting .

Choose a dry and dry season of the year as well as with low humidity. The paint needs time to dry and will not be absorbed by the surface if it is not dry .

Appreciate quality over price

Better quality paint means you will paint fewer times over time and have better surface coverage when painting.

Color technology has improved dramatically in recent years with colors guaranteed to last longer than before.

You may be tempted to save money on paint for your home by choosing a cheaper brand but you may have a problem in the long run and end up paying more.

Preparing and cleaning the surface

The paint will not be absorbed on dirty or rough surfaces. For this reason, make sure that the surfaces you will paint are smooth and let them dry.

Before you start painting a house, create a single surface where the paint will be easily absorbed.

Avoid eaten or rotten surfaces

The paint will not be applied on half-eaten or loose surfaces as they will continue to fade. You have several options in this case such as covering wood glue or new material to cover these surfaces and be able to apply the paint on top.

Use primer

It is  a good idea to use a good primer before you start painting your house . Specifically, before painting the surfaces, we must prime them.

This is a good general rule of thumb although many colors combine primer with color in a product. These products are more expensive but may be comparatively advantageous than buying primer and paint separately.

Paint from top to bottom

Starting from the top and working down helps you to better control the “drips” as you will work with the help of gravity and not “against” it.

Seal it

Properly closing the paint cans will help you to keep the paint from drying out for the next day when you are done. Use a rubber mallet to tap the closed lid. You can also stick plastic tape on the opening to ensure a tight seal.

Prepare the ground

It is easy to forget how messy your home can be when painting the house, so make sure you cover the floor, the plants and the space around the wall you are going to paint.

Also, move or cover furniture, barbecue, etc. Use cloths or sheets to cover the things you want to protect from the paint.

6 ideas for painting exterior walls

Choosing a color to paint the exterior walls of your home or apartment building is not an easy task.

Below we give you six ideas for painting exterior walls that will help you, in general, to choose the right color to highlight your property.

1. Light shades

Definitely choosing a light cream shade on the exterior walls can give the house a sense of nobility. Light gives volume and size. A white house visually shows us bigger.

2. One or more colors?

Of course, the whole house does not need to be painted one color on the outside.

If you want to play with two colors, you need to know that the successful combination in the right places is what will make the difference. But it needs attention where each color will be placed.

In case of combining two colors, it is better to follow the following rule: Paint in a darker color the surface of the wall that is receding in the front, that is, further back.

For example, on a covered terrace or a covered balcony, the shaded wall can be painted a different color, darker or even more intense than the rest of the house.

In this way you achieve a more pleasant and harmonious result as the eye better understands the arrangement of the tumors without getting confused.

Also, a whole volume that stands out from the main body of the building can have a different color, such as the exterior of the staircase in an apartment building.

3. Architecture trends

The modern trend in Architecture in recent years is to use color not as a decorative element of the building but as an important element to highlight the architectural composition of the building.

Thus, certain building blocks, such as columns and beams, are painted in specific colors.

A typical example of this trend is the coloring we see today in apartment buildings of the 70’s and 80’s. The frame of the building is painted in shades of gray or green and the walls in shades of white.

Other modern trends in the painting of exterior walls highlight the details of the building, such as gutters, chimneys, etc. that stand out from the main body of the building, and are painted in a different shade giving an elegant result.

Painted windows and doors in olive green, cypress, gray or the natural shade of hot wood or even cold aluminum also create an interesting color change on the exterior wall facades.

Even the frames painted in different colors besides white are interesting in appearance.

4. How is the weather?

Another thing that we must take into account when choosing exterior wall colors is the bioclimatic factor.

To be clear, you should know that facades that are “seen” more by the sun, eg south or west that are not shaded in the summer months, should be painted in light colors.

And this is necessary in order for the exterior walls to reflect and not absorb heat, heating the interior of the house even more.

5. Architecture style

If the property is old and has the architecture of an older era, then it is worth spending some time to highlight its elements with colors that match the houses of that time.

Also, if you like your neighbourhood and want to support a common style, then you can get ideas from the neighbouring houses and choose a color for the facade of your house that will enhance the image of your area.

6. Nature color palette

If your house is close to green, you can even get ideas from the color palette of nature by choosing shades of green, tile, ocher and generally earthy colors.

If your house is a country house or is located near the sea then you can turn to the countless shades of blue.

It is known that the eye loves natural colors, the colors that are found in nature. Earthy colors in shades of beige, brown, gray, but also the deep shades of red and yellow, blue and green.

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Colors and mood – How to feel beautiful in your personal space

Gikas painting in Montclair

Painters often come across many clients and friends who have noticed that their mood changes when they spend a lot of time in a room, it is likely that this is due to the predominant colors of that particular room.

As interior decoration becomes more and more popular and people become more interested in decorations and furniture, and colors have started to play a very important role in this equation.

“Colors, like facial features, follow the alternation of emotions,” Pablo Picasso once said. Even though there is not much research in this area, the field of color psychology has come to the fore in many areas, including interior design.

If you want to know what colors it is good to choose when decorating your home to always have a good mood, read below . You may discover a new hobby with the help of our professional painters of Gkikas Painting in Montclair.

A subjective perspective on colors

Even though each of us perceives colors differently, there are some general rules about the influence they have on people’s moods. Initially, there is a clear and well-known difference between warm colors (red, yellow, orange, etc.) and cold colors (blue, green, violet, etc.).

Most people feel this difference the same way. The idea is that usually, warm colors encourage a sense of euphoria, warmth, and comfort.

On the other hand, cool colors promote feelings of nervousness, annoyance or even indifference. However, most people agree that a wall painted in a light shade of blue encourages calm and quiet.

Therefore, it is important to set some general rules when it comes to the emotions caused by certain colors (and non-colors as well), and how you can maintain a balance thanks to the various decorations and furniture in your home.

Black: mystery and flexibility

Even if it is essentially a non-color, black can have a very interesting effect if you choose to use it in the decoration of your home. For example, even a single black wall in your office can increase your creativity and calm.

If you do not want to go that far, you can always choose small black accessories and place them in central parts of the room.

For example vases, frames, and other small decorative items (trinkets, holiday souvenirs, even knobs or other details) that can offer a sense of elegance, boldness and mystery.

Also, black is very versatile and can be combined with almost all colors, depending on your preferences.

White: brightness and cleanliness

It is no secret that white creates the illusion of space in every room. It is also the secret weapon of decorators whenever they have small or dark rooms.

It is also a non-color and the most popular choice for walls in bedrooms, living rooms, offices or meeting rooms, as it offers a sense of cleanliness and freshness.

There is a reason that the ceilings are almost always white, as well as the curtains. Keep these ideas in mind when you decide to decorate the house and especially if you want to feel all of the above in the comfort of your personal space.

Red: intense emotions and passion

Most of us associate red with passion, desire, love, warmth, and comfort. These are all strong emotions that you can incorporate into your home with small details.

A red or burgundy curtain, a rug, a vase , some decorative pillows, a bed linen or even a fire-colored sofa can warm the whole house.

Because it is so intense, it is not easy to match the red in the interior decoration. However, some details can make the difference.

Usually, people choose this color for the bedroom or even the bathroom, where sandstone and faience are the main elements for building these strong emotions.

Blue: calm and order

It seems that blue is the favorite color of men and this may be due to the feelings of calm and order it evokes.

Indeed, many people choose to paint the walls or decorate their rooms in shades of blue because they can encourage a sense of moderation, security, and even honesty.

So, if you belong to these people, you can choose blue in all its shades without fear. It is easy to match furniture, decorations and walls thanks to this beautiful and serene color.

Green: refreshing and relaxing 

What do you usually associate green with? Trees, grass, leaves, or simply, with nature. Thanks to this correlation, green is considered by many to be the color of freshness and serenity.

Also, the color of the forest helps to relax and rejuvenate the spirit, something that makes it perfect for the bedroom, for example.

But if you do not want to turn your home into a forest, you can put some details that will make the difference and give you the mood you need.

Curtains, walls, bedding , decorative pillows or rugs can help. Freshness and optimism, perfect for a welcoming home!

Yellow: energy and happiness

Yellow is a color traditionally associated with the feeling of jealousy. It is a warm color that has gathered many contradictions around it.

Some prefer it for its energy, happiness, and warmth. Others hate it and say it bothers the eyes and the senses and spoils the mood.

Usually, this color is used in kitchens because, according to research, it activates the appetite.

So do not hesitate to use some yellow details (or orange if you want balance) when looking for a bright and warm result. But be careful not to overdo it because your guests may feel annoyed with all the yellow in your home.

Conclusion

Ultimately, it seems that even if each person is influenced by colors in a certain way, all the common characteristics we have mentioned can encourage similar feelings.

So, if you want to decorate your home and you are interested in the so-called psychology of colors, it would be good to consider these ideas.

This way, by using small color details or even central elements of the decoration, you can achieve the desired result when it comes to the mood of your home. This applies to you and those who visit you.

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Benefits of roof reconstruction

Gikas roofing - roof reconnstruction in Montclair

There are many who decide that there are more benefits in roof reconstruction, especially when it comes to an old house that is quite costly in its functionality, rather than buying a new one.

Waterproofing and thermal insulation of the roof

Initial work if you live on the top floor before starting the renovation is the waterproofing of the roof which is important to be sure so as not to create problems with the first rains in your renovated house. Then the thermal insulation of the roof is an investment for your home as on the one hand it improves your living conditions inside the house and on the other hand it improves your finances due to the savings of money and energy that it achieves. Do not forget that the top floors have large losses from their secluded roof and are one of the first tasks that we must put in the program.

External thermal insulation of the walls

The external thermal insulation of the walls, columns and walls also contributes to the energy upgrade. In addition it improves the appearance of the often brittle exterior walls by eliminating damage from moisture and mold. Insulation ensures a constant temperature inside the house, in the cold of winter and in the heat of summer, with a significant reduction of expenses for heating and cooling. Insulation also offers wall waterproofing from rain and water.

Thermal insulation of the floor

If you live on the first floor above the floor you will definitely feel the lack of thermal insulation such as cold and sometimes wet floor, mold low on the walls, inability to heat the space etc. The solution to all this is the thermal insulation of the floor. In this way, the thermal losses of the building are minimized and great energy savings are achieved.

Thermal insulation of the roof

Thermal insulation of the roof is necessary as it shows great savings in the energy consumed by a space to maintain the desired temperature and the money one has to buy this energy. The top floor under the roof is the one that is particularly stressed as it is affected in winter and summer by outside temperatures. Thermal insulation of the roof can be applied either externally or internally. In the first case of external thermal insulation, the polyurethane foam is sprayed on the tiles from the top and then it is covered with special brushed materials, usually in tile color, so as not to change the color of the roof. Polyurethane has perfect adhesion to the roof so it becomes a body with it. In the second case of internal thermal insulation, if there is a horizontal concrete slab between the roof and the interior, then the thermal insulation is applied either to the horizontal slab or directly to the roof.

Internal thermal insulation of walls

Internal wall and ceiling insulation is a fast, economical and efficient process. Internal thermal insulation is a good solution when there are problems of lack of thermal insulation in walls that are exposed and there are still other reasons, such as the inability of external thermal insulation due to high scaffolding costs, inability to access, etc.

  • Frame replacement
  • Gas installation
  • Upgrading of heating and air conditioning systems
  • Shading with awnings
  • Installation of solar water heater

However, apart from these subsidized works, many people decide to do other works during the renovation, such as the soundproofing of their house, which is often such a big problem that is the cause and the reason for starting a renovation. Soundproofing usually covers walls, ceilings and floors.

Roof waterproofing

In a sloping tiled roof, the waterproofing of the roof is achieved with special tiled roofing membranes. Due to the discontinuity of the tiles, the membranes come to guarantee the tightness of the roof.

Characteristics that they must have are complete tightness, vapor permeability, non-slip (for the safety of the craftsman) and resistance to drilling. In terms of vapor permeability, we know that spaces usually collect water vapor which must be released and removed from the building. A common feature of the membranes is their low weight of about 500 gr / m².

Technical tips for roof waterproofing with tiled roofing membranes

  • Correct slopes on your roof. The slope of your roof should be about 20%. The exact percentage depends on the area, the climate, the frequency of snowfall and rainfall, etc.
  • Laying membrane on the roof parallel to the gutters.
  • Fastening of the membrane with flat-headed nails. We always keep in mind the quality of the material as a key parameter. We always start from the lowest points in order to ensure the unimpeded flow of water.
  • Membrane overlap to prevent water from entering under the membranes.
  • Technical support from us before, during and after the execution of the project.

In a roof without tiles, the solution is asphalt tiles which lead to an aesthetically upgraded solution with excellent waterproofing. Asphalt tiles are asphalt-shaped tiles that look like tiles. Available in rectangular or circular shape with tile overlay in various colors or copper foil for rarer cases. They are glued with asphalt glue and nailed with special flat-headed galvanized nails to the sloping roofs. In our company you can find the color and design of asphalt tiles that you like and of course we undertake their application on your roof. Asphalt tiles are an alternative proposal for covering your roofs.

Technical tips for roofing with asphalt tiles

Roofers start by correcting the slopes on your roof. The slope of your roof should be about 20%. The exact percentage depends on the area, the climate, the frequency of snowfall and rainfall, etc. It is very important that the water does not stagnate on the asphalt tiles at all.

The weather should be sunny in the last days and it is not expected to rain in the following days. If there is trapped moisture in the slab which did not evaporate it will create problems on the roof of the top floor. Sealing visible cracks or holes is also important. These are details that make a difference.
Bonding of asphalt tiles with special glue. Always keep in mind the quality of the material as a key parameter. Start from the lowest points in order to ensure the unimpeded flow of water. Overlap of asphalt tiles in the provided positions. Fastening of asphalt tiles with special flat-headed nails.

Gutter sealing

Gutters or gutters are places that often suffer from moisture as they come in frequent contact with the water that wears them more and more, with the result that water passes and appears inside and outside the construction.

Sealing the groove is the sure solution to get rid of roofing problems in Montclair NJ.

Gutter waterproofing technical tips

We identify the real cause of the humidity that occurs. Inductively exclude other reasons that may be due to moisture before proceeding to sealing.

  • Dry surface. We start the work when the weather is sunny in the last days and it is not expected to rain in the following days. If there is trapped moisture that did not evaporate, it will create bloating on the tarpaulin.
  • Dismantling and removal of old asphalt sheets if any.
  • Scratching and restoration of swollen and brittle surfaces. Asphalt sheets should be glued to a stable surface because otherwise they will peel off along with the loose plasters.
  • Clean surface. Wipe the surface to be clean and free of dust and other objects.
  • Sealing visible cracks or holes. Details that make a difference.
  • Priming with good quality asphalt varnish which should dry before the asphalt sheets are applied.
  • Gluing asphalt sheets. We always have quality in mind as a key parameter.
  • Overlap of asphalt sheets by 10 cm. The points of the joints are very vulnerable, so the correct attachment is very important.
  • Sealing the joints by pressing on the ridges. We emphasize these points because they are the most frightening.
  • Protection of the sealed surface. Do not forget to clean the gutters from leaves that clog them and block the flow of water.

Technical support from Gikas Roofing in Montclair before, during and after the roof reconstruction.

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5 Creative ideas for painting the house

Montclair painting

The painting colors on the walls of the house are one of the most basic elements, as they give it character. They function as the main core, which will determine the entire decoration of each space. Painting the interior of the house requires brainstorming, in order to make the right color choices in Montclair.

Also, if you decide to make this change, you need to choose colors and styles depending on the space, their size and of course, consequently to suit your personal style. After all, every house is the imprint of our character.

Below is a guide to the 5 color categories and a list of ideas for painting of each room.

1. Basic colors

The given colors are important, as they are the basis for other colors. These include: red, green, yellow and blue. They are also the colors associated with modern styles, such as the Pop art style. You can apply them on small walls, to give more color.

2. Bright colors

Bright colors come from the spectrum of light. They are important as they have the ability to enlarge the spaces, to give the visual impression of brightness and to create an illusion of depth. They are suitable for all rooms, but especially for those that are smaller, so that they look more spacious and comfortable.

Also, white is a bright background color, it matches everything and is ideal for walls where you want to place paintings. Coffee and green, which are ideal for the library or office, also belong to this category.

3. Natural colors

This category is directly related to the colors of nature. They are ideal for bedrooms, as they provide warmth, comfort and relaxation. All earthy shades can give the space a sense of intimacy.

4. Intense colors

Intense colors include mainly the darkest tones, such as blue and orange. They are ideal if you want to give more warmth. They are also shades that highlight the house and give it personality.

However, it would be good to use them as the basic colors, i.e in small areas or alternatively in large rooms, so that the space does not seem limited.

5. Painting styles

If you want a more modern or alternative effect on the walls, you can choose a painting style. One idea is to turn a wall, for example, into a blackboard or paint it with a sponge to create vague shapes. Wallpaper installation is also another option.

Different painting ideas for each room

Living room

The living room is usually the largest space in the house. This fact, therefore, automatically gives you more freedom in choosing colors. One choice may be beige or white. Colors that are neutral, give prestige, make the space more chic and can be very easily combined with accessories and furniture.

Also, white can be used, if you like the minimal classic style. Chocolate, in addition, is easily combined with accessories and gives warmth and elegance. If on the other hand you want something more modern, choose shades such as green and turquoise, for a more playful style.

Kitchen

The shades that suit the kitchen are light gray and off-white. They are ideal if you have stone benches and cabinets. In fact, gray does not get dirty easily, while off-white gives more depth than white. If you want a more retro style, prefer bright green or petrol, bright colors that give character to your kitchen.

Dinning room

The dining room is the place where friends or family usually gather. Coffee – mink is the right color, as it conveys the warmth and the feeling of hospitality, which are important for this room.

Another option may be the blue-raff, which offers the balance between relaxation and luxury, with a more dramatic style. Also, burgundy, although heavier, can offer more warmth to the dining room.

Bathroom

The bathroom is usually one of the smallest rooms. Choose shades that will be discreet and will not narrow the space further.

A good idea is the beige – gray, soft and comfortable color, which is easily combined with white as well as with pastel shades in the bathroom accessories. If you want a more vintage effect, choose the shade of mint.

Bedroom

The bedroom is characterized mainly by its more earthy shades. You can choose between olive, khaki or beige. These colors give warmth, comfort and convey the aura of the “classic”.

Also, ice white and sugar white are shades, which are characterized by their elegance. Finally, you can choose the gray – light blue, for a more intimate and bright room.

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The scary trend of stealthing

The scary trend of stealthing

California became the first US state to ban the removal of a condom without consent during sex. Here is the opinion of Athens Escorts about stealthing. Stealthing, as this scary tactic is called, is now a crime and victims have the right to sue the perpetrators seeking compensation.

In particular, the governor of California, Gavin Newsom, signed the new bill, which changes the definition of sexual abuse, makes stealthing a civil offense and gives victims rights.

“By adopting this law, we are emphasizing the importance of consent,” the governor’s office said in a Twitter post. “I’m proud that California became the first to do this,” said lawmaker Christina Garcia, who was pushing for the bill, which was unanimously approved by the state legislature last month.

But he emphasized the need to focus on all other states and countries, and said that “stealthing is not just immoral, it is illegal.”

Similar stealthing bills were tabled in New York and Wisconsin, but were never approved. Christina Garcia said she had been trying to pass the law since 2017, when a Yale study called stealthing a “serious violation of dignity and autonomy” and said cases affecting women and gay men were on the rise.

The scary trend of stealthing

Stealthing is the practice of removing a condom during intercourse without knowledge or consent. The term borrows its name from stealth technology – or the way to make an aircraft “invisible”.

This is an extremely serious issue, not only for obvious health reasons, but because, according to relevant court rulings, it is a form of sexual assault that many men have admitted to committing.

In fact, stealthing tends to become a very dangerous “fashion”, a scary trend, as it seems that many people do it secretly during sex with their partners and then even take pride in it on social media or their friends.

According to Alexandra Brodsky , a lawyer at the National Center for Women’s Rights in England, this is a new practice that many women are afraid to talk about, but many perpetrators are flouting it online as if it were magic.

According to a study by Brodsky, when a man practices stealthing during intercourse – which can otherwise be completely consensual – he can be accused of sexual assault in the eyes of the law.

A typical example is a man who was convicted of rape in Switzerland for removing a condom during sexual intercourse without the consent of his partner.

The research revealed numerous online communities where men openly discuss their accomplishments and share tips for success in their future stealthing endeavors.

Brodsky points out in her research that the most worrying thing is that there are online forums where men encourage each other to take off their condoms and even share tips for doing so without their partner noticing.

But why is this happening? The lawyer explains in her research that there are men who believe that they have the right to “share their” seed “and treat the secret removal of a condom as a tactic that falls under their rights.

The silent victims of stealthing

However, Brodsky’s research reveals that because of the “gray areas” in stealth cases, many victims are reluctant to address the problem, let alone claim their legal rights.

Brodsky’s research showed that women who fell victim to stealthing said it was a blatant violation, which put their physical and psychological health at great risk, as, in addition to the psychological trauma of sexual assault, they were exposed to disease. infections and possible pregnancy.

“Unintentional removal of a condom during sex,” Brodsky writes, “exposes victims to the risk of an unwanted pregnancy and infection with a sexually transmitted disease.”

Stealthing is generally not reported, because so far there have been few ways to deal with it legally.

But it is an extremely common topic, according to research. In a study published by the American National Library of Medicine in 2019, 12% of women reported falling victim to stealthing.

In another study of the same year, 10% of men admitted to removing a condom during sexual intercourse without consent.

The state of California has made a very important principle in defending the rights of victims of sexual assault. Let us hope that others will follow her example and that this will indeed be just a beginning that will continue.

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10 plants with large impressive flowers

10 plants with large impressive flowers

We all love flowers! They are the most beautiful we meet in nature and they charm us every time we see them in our garden and yard with wonderful combinations of harmonious shapes and impressive colors.

Each flower has its own unique beauty and a feature that makes them even more impressive is the size. Large flowers, no doubt, have their own fanatical fans and are a reference point for gardening friends. They stand out among the other plants in the garden with their irresistible charm, and flood us with color and optimism.

Large flowers are ideal to create a beautiful flower garden in our home, to make wonderful bouquets that we will give to our loved ones, as well as to keep them in a vase and to decorate our living room or office.

Plants with large flowers for the garden and balcony

Let’s see what are the most beautiful plants with large flowers to plant in our garden and balcony and enjoy their impressive flowering.

1. Dahlia

Large and impressive flowers, the first plant that comes to mind is the dahlia, the popular tuberous plant that is planted all over the world.

We will find varieties of dahlias with different shapes and sizes of flowers, as well as in incredible colors, from white, cream, yellow, to pink, purple, orange, red and even dark red that is almost black.

The beautiful dahlia flowers are an extremely popular choice for vase decoration. Dahlias need several hours of sunshine to give us their rich flowering.

So we choose a sunny place in our garden, protected from strong winds, to plant them.

2. Hydrangea

We continue with the hydrangea that stands out for its wonderful large flowers, in white, pink or blue color, although now we will find varieties in purple, yellow, red and orange shades.

In addition to the shrub varieties of hydrangea, there are also climbing hydrangeas that are particularly impressive. Hydrangea flowers remain beautiful even when dried, retaining their ornamental value, and are an excellent choice to decorate in a vase.

Hydrangea grows best and blooms in semi-shady and cool places as it loves heat, humidity, but not bright direct sunlight. It is resistant to frost and low winter temperatures, however it is sensitive to strong winds and especially the north winds.

3. Amaryllis

The list of the most impressive and large flowers could not but include the amaryllis that fascinates us with the huge colorful flowers that project on long strong stems.

There are many varieties of amaryllis that are planted both in flower beds in the garden and in pots on the balcony, and give us their wonderful flowers at the end of winter, the season when amaryllis bloom.

The countless color combinations of amaryllis flowers are based on white, red, orange, yellow and pink with beautiful two-tone colors that have characteristic streaks.

Amaryllis can be grown without soil and grown in water to give us its impressive flowers using a special vase that has a narrow mouth to place its bulb.

4. Roses

Of course, we should not forget the rose, the most widespread and recognizable ornamental plant with fanatical fans all over the world, which has varieties with large flowers, fragrant, in wonderful colors and impressive designs.

Roses to decorate with beautiful flowers in a vase, as well as to make unique bouquets. We choose special shrub varieties, with a large flower shoot, suitable for cut flowers to plant in our garden.

The rose loves the sun, so we choose sunny places for planting, in order to have a rich growth with more flowers. Even in a semi-shady position, the rose can survive by giving us enough flowers. When we plant roses in a pot.

5. Camellias

The camellia, the impressive flowering ornamental shrub that stands out for its glossy foliage and its beautiful single or double flowers in white, pink and red, also gives us great wonderful flowers.

A plant of unique ornamental value, the camellia reaches a height of 2-3 meters and blooms from late January to mid-May. We choose a relatively shady and cool place for the camellia, protected from strong winds.

The camellia suffers in hot and dry climates, as well as when it is in direct exposure to the sun. Especially the intense morning sun in combination with the high temperature after the night frost causes a significant drop of its flowers.

6. Hibiscus

Hibiscus is one of the most popular flowers in the garden that gives us impressively large flowers, white, purple, red, orange and pink that emerge among its characteristic triangular toothed leaves.

The most famous species of hibiscus is the Syrian that blooms in summer and autumn and its numerous flowers are preserved only for 1-2 days.

Hibiscus loves sunny places and thrives in places sheltered from wind currents, especially from the north. In sunny places, hibiscus has richer flowering while in semi-shady places, the appearance of flowers is limited.

Hibiscus is quite sensitive to low temperatures, as it loses its foliage and freezes when the temperature drops to zero.

7. Lilium

Lilies are one of the most beloved bulbous flowers that give us a wonderful bloom with their large and impressive lilies.

The flowers of lilies have different shapes and are found in the form of a cup, bell or trumpet, while they have many colors from white and pink to orange, red and yellow.

Those who win the impressions are the Oriental lilies that stand out as they have large flowers and an intense sweet aroma.

Most lilies bloom in the summer and are an excellent choice for planting in pots, as well as to create a wonderful colorful backdrop in our garden.

Lily lilies are ideal flowers to decorate in a vase in the living room and in our office, as they can be kept for at least 2-3 weeks.

8. Trumpet of Angels

Particularly impressive flowers are given to us by Brugmansia (Brugmansia), also known as datura or trumpet of angels.

Originally from South America, the trumpet of angels has rich foliage and large leaves, reaches a height of 2-3 meters and stands out for its huge trumpet-shaped flowers that spread on its shoots and reach a length of 15-20 cm .

Its flowers have different colors from white, cream, yellow, pink to purple and we can choose the variety that suits us. The trumpet of angels thrives in subtropical climates that are both humid and warm.

We prefer semi-shady places as it suffers from the intense midday sun of summer. It is sensitive to low temperatures, as well as strong winds.

9. Zinia

In our list of plants that have large beautiful flowers is zinnia the annual ornamental plant that impresses with the variety of colors and shapes of flowers.

There are varieties of zinnias with flowers that reach up to 20 cm in diameter and are used in bouquets or vases for cut flowers.

Zinnias have strong upright shoots with a length of half to one meter and large flowers that remain in bloom throughout the summer.

Zinnia is a plant of warm climate and needs relatively sunny and sheltered places to thrive. It must be planted in rich and well-drained soils to have growth and rich flowering.

10. Sunflower

And for the end of this interesting list of plants that have large beautiful flowers, the sunflower is the favorite summer plant that we plant to decorate our garden or balcony to give us its impressive flowering.

The dwarf varieties of sunflower, which reach up to 40-50 cm in height, are suitable for pots, while for the garden we prefer the tallest varieties that exceed one meter and are also edible.

The characteristic color of sunflower flowers is yellow but now new varieties of sunflower have been created in shades from light yellow to red and brown.

Sunflower is suitable for the arid conditions of our Mediterranean climate and needs plenty of direct sunlight to grow and thrive.

Flower compositions and bouquets

Our love for flowers and our many years of experience in one of the oldest flower shops in Athens (VINTZILAIOS Flower Shop), led us to the decision to open the flower shop “LAURA SPRING FLOWERS, LAURETA S. DOGA” in the center of Athens.

In our shop you will find fresh seasonal flowers, compositions, bouquets, plants, wedding and baptisms decorations, as well as various proposals at the best market prices!

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How to disinfect our house

How to disinfect our house

On the one hand the viruses, on the other the spring allergies, surely during this period your house needs proper cleaning and disinfection from Αποφράξεις Αναγνώστου Κηφισιά. But how do you clean your home completely, properly, in what order and where to start? Below you will find simple tips to make your home look and feel really clean, free of germs, dust and viruses.

Room ventilation

Start the day of the general cleaning of your house, ventilating each room well and do not forget to take blankets and duvets in the sun.

In any case, you should ventilate the house every day, so that the air is refreshed and diffused fresh inside the house.

This protects you more from viruses and allergies.

Surfaces

Thoroughly disinfect large surfaces such as benches, open-plan furniture, consoles, desks, play surfaces.

Use disinfectant cleaning liquid or cleaner with diluted bleach (in materials that do not fade) in a ratio of 1 to 10, where you will then rinse the surfaces with clean water.

Carpets

Shake well all the carpets in the house, as well as the sofa covers. Let them ventilate for a while and then take them in and continue cleaning them with the vacuum cleaner, brush with a carpet cleaner and if necessary put a steam cleaner.

With a steam cleaner you can also clean the curtains, but also your mattress. The steam cleaner with the power of steam cleans difficult stains while at the same time disinfects, neutralizing 99.9% of germs without the use of chemicals.

Kitchen

The kitchen due to humidity but also due to daily feeding activity requires special attention.

  • Remove from the counter tops of your kitchen anything that has nothing to do with its function and clean thoroughly. Leave them clean and almost empty.
  •  Fill the sink with hot water, add a little soap and put in the removable shelves of the fridge, the dish rack or the microwave tray.
  • Dust over cupboards and the refrigerator, dust that will fall to the floor will be wiped off later.
  • Clean the taps and the outside of the kitchen utensils, but also the oven, refrigerator, etc., with a general purpose cleaner and rinse.
  • Put the sponges and vetches along with the items you have soaked in the sink in the dishwasher.
  • Vacuum carefully to remove dust and crumbs and then mop well.

There are special kitchen cleaners so you can easily clean everything in your kitchen.

To disinfect your refrigerator:

  • You have to remove the food (check expiration dates, throw away what has expired and bring forward the expired ones).
  • Clean the inside with a sponge dipped in warm water and a little dishwashing liquid.
  • You go everywhere with disinfectant (non-toxic) grills, cupboards, egg cases, base, etc.
  • Wipe with a damp clean sponge and wait for it to dry before putting your food back in.

To disinfect the dishwasher:

  • Check the drainage area and remove any food debris.
  • Then place a glass of white vinegar in the washing machine.
  • In another cup put baking soda (up to the middle of the cup) and place it on the top shelf.
  • Work for a wash cycle with the hottest water and after the wash is over, leave it closed for another 20 minutes.
  • Open his door and dried the inside with a clean towel or a soft sponge.

Sofa

Clean your sofa after wiping it with the special brush of the vacuum cleaner or with a vacuum cleaner and pass it with a gentle cleaner. Then you can use a steam cleaner.

The vacuum cleaner is a good solution for small surfaces and for everyday use, as it is flexible, small and practical.

Bathroom

The bathroom must be disinfected daily for reasons of hygiene, as due to the bacteria that grow there it is the most “dirty” room in the house. For a “deep” cleaning, wear household gloves and start from the top down.

  • Wipe the bathroom floor well before you start anything, as water will fall and you do not want mud in your bathroom.
  • Clean the metal elements of the shower with a special product, wash the bathtub curtains in the washing machine and clean the bathtub with hot water and detergent.

  • Disinfect tiles, brush the dirt from the joints (with a hard brush or toothbrush dipped in bleach) while at the same time the bathroom should be ventilated.

  • Use the basin to clean sinks and faucets and finish them. Pour bleach and toilet disinfectant, rub with a spatula and pull out the cistern.

  • Finally, mop with floor cleaner or diluted bleach. To easily clean your bathroom, there are special bath cleaners.

To disinfect the washing machine:

Once a month put on a washing program with a temperature above 60 ° C. Put detergent powder in the case and let it work. You can also add 2 cups of vinegar in place of the detergent, to remove any odors that have been created inside.

Wiping – Mopping

You move armchairs and sofas (if possible), baskets, flower pots, boxes, nightstands, etc., and vacuum thoroughly the whole house. You also pay attention under the beds and on the legs of the furniture that collect hair and various dirt.

Mop the whole house with a biological cleaner and a few drops of disinfectant and change the water per room.

You can see for a good vacuum cleaner, for a professional one for your terrace or garden, but also the very easy-to-use robot vacuum cleaner, which will really “untie” your hands!

Mattresses

After removing the mattress cover, vacuum it with a vacuum cleaner to pick up dust, pet hair and dirt that has accumulated over time.

If there are stains, mix a few drops of liquid dish soap with warm water with a little baking soda and rub the stains. Wipe the whole thing with a cloth that you have sprayed with antibacterial liquid and try to aerate it, lifting it.

If possible, take the mattress out for a while in the garden or on the terrace, the sun and air are a great way to drastically reduce bacteria.

Glass

The windows are also a point that needs thorough cleaning, especially in a house with children who constantly leave footprints on their height.

Clean the surface with a soft, lint-free cloth, spray with glass liquid and wipe with a kitchen roller, ideally with newspaper sheets, as it will polish them perfectly or with glass cleaning rubbers.

When the rains stop and after washing balconies, terraces and shutters, you follow the same steps from the outside. To clean your windows there are small glass cleaning devices that make the whole process incredibly easy.

Knobs – handles

It is very important to frequently disinfect door knobs (especially the front door) and cupboards, the handles on your small appliances, the power switches, the keyboards, the TV remote control and anything else you touch almost every day!

You can see our article specifically for the disinfection of electronic devices. If you want to feel healthy, beautiful and relaxed in the house, these simple tips will help you a lot, as well as the simple moves that you can adopt in your daily life.

Then, enjoy your indoors activities in peace.

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Web Hosting vs Domain: What are their differences?

web-hosting-vs-domain-what-are-their-differences

Web Hosting vs Domain: What are their differences?

Many people who are just starting out on the internet and want to create a website, do not know that domain name and web hosting are 2 completely different things!

A website is made up of different elements that work together harmoniously to display your content to visitors. It is impossible to have a website without web hosting or domain name – you need both!

For example you can have all your files in one hosting space but if you do not have a domain name, then they can not be accessible to the public – except with the IP and the exact path!

If this sounds like a bit of a distraction, don’t panic! Read the article to the end and you will understand the differences between domain and web hosting, as well as how these 2 are connected.

What is Web Hosting?

 

In order for your website to be online, 24 hours a day, you must either have your computer open at all times (and of course properly configured to function as a web hosting server) or purchase a web hosting package.

Of course, over 99% of the world chooses the 2nd solution – the purchase of a web hosting. Web hosting services are usually charged per month, depending on the package and benefits you choose.

The company – provider will provide you with the available space where you can upload your applications and files to be accessible to the general public. A company that specializes in web hosting has all the necessary technical infrastructure to host the files of your website.

Your package, and then your website, will simply own a small portion of a server, as it will share it with dozens or hundreds of other websites! But do not be intimidated by this, as shared web hosting has many advantages, such as:

  • Low cost: shared hosting has the lowest cost and is the ideal choice for those who are just starting their online adventure with a new website.
  • Very easy to use: Shared web hosting is very easy to use as everything comes pre-configured. You just have to upload your files!
  • Instantly upgradeable: Whenever you want, you can upgrade your package to a bigger one with more space and more features!

 

To start hosting your website, all you have to do is choose the right web hosting package from the various providers available. We suggest you choose a Greek company for better speeds and more immediate support.

What is a domain name?

 

The domain is the name of a website, as it must be written for anyone to have access! For example, on our website the domain is MyIP.gr – if you type it you will be directly on our website! If domains did not exist, users would have to remember a number (IP) to be able to access your website.

Now, the domain name covers IP “as a mask” so your visitors only need to know the name of your website!

There is a lot of “background” behind each domain and how it relates to the web hosting package you have (with name servers, A records, etc.) but you do not need to know them!

How Web Hosting and a Domain Name Work Together!

 

In order for your website to be online and accessible from anywhere and everyone, all you have to do is buy a hosting package along with a domain. In the company you will buy – we recommend the Greek company MyIP – you will use some name servers that you must declare in the domain you bought.

If you buy domain + web hosting together, then it is very likely that this process will be done by the company and you will not do anything. Otherwise, you will simply enter 2 to 4 name servers in the corresponding field of your domain (in the domain administrator). This way you declare in the domain “where to find” your files and display them when you enter the name of your website.

From now on, all you have to think about is the construction of your website, as in less than 24 hours the domain will be ready for use! To get started and choose your own domain along with a web hosting package, click here!

 

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