Author: oi_admin

Brighten a Basement on a Budget

Posted on March 2, 2017 by oi_admin - News

Your basement doesn’t have to be the dark and dreary spot in your home anymore.

Low ceilings, limited light and general dreariness can make the basement a hard spot to hang out in. Here are a few ways to brighten things up in what is often a dark and cramped looking space:

Fresh Coat - Paint the walls a light shade and ceilings even lighter to give the illusion of height.
Lighten Up - Use various lighting sources layered at different heights including wall sconces and lamps to brighten things up.
Mirror Mirror - Place mirrors across from your basement windows in order to maximize the effect of natural light.
Floored - Don’t break up the basement by choosing continuous flooring so that the space will appear larger.

These are just a few ways to transform your basement from dark and dreary to bright and beautiful. All it takes are just a few simple adjustments and before you know it, your basement will become one of your most popular hangouts!

Interior Shutters

Posted on March 2, 2017 by oi_admin - News

Shutters inside the home can be warm, beautiful and functional.

Interior shutters can be used inside a window in place of blinds. These offer both privacy and shade. In fact, some interior window shutters can help you save money on your energy bills.

Interior shutters are available in either wood or vinyl. Experts say that vinyl is better for those desiring a painted look while wood is best for customers that want a stained look. Vinyl shutters are available in a variety of colors, but white is the most popular. Shutters are available in stock sizes or custom sizes.

Shutters can be used in other areas beside windows, such as on louver doors separating rooms within the house. This allows a certain level of privacy without completely shutting off the room. It also offers a unique decorating opportunity.

Interior shutters offer many advantages, including privacy, shade, and décor. For a unique and classy window cover or room divider, consider installing interior shutters.

Reduce Closet Clutter

Posted on March 2, 2017 by oi_admin - News

Streamline your wardrobe and stay organized all year long.

Empty. Remove the contents of your closet. Lay clothing on your bed and arrange shoes and accessories on the floor.
Evaluate. Start with clothes. If not worn in over a year, you probably will not miss it if you give it away. If you wear it regularly, hang it back in the closet.
Eliminate. Collect unwanted but wearable garments in a bag and donate to charity.
Establish order. Hang like items together in the closet. Affix closet door hooks to hang accessories. Arrange shoes on a shoe rack.

Spring Maintenance

Posted on March 2, 2017 by oi_admin - News

Spring’s the perfect time for taking care of outdoor maintenance!

The arrival of warm weather signals fun in the backyard with friends and family. The last thing you want to deal with are unexpected home repairs so here’s a list to help keep you on track:

Clear away debris and dead foliage from any flowerbeds.
Inspect hose connections to ensure there are no leaks.
Replace damaged window screens and any weather stripping.
Clean your fireplace and/or wood-burning stove and flue.
Make sure your lawn mower, weed wacker and other tools are in good working order.
Clean and repair your patio furniture and inspect your deck for loose or rotten boards.
Trim back shrubs and vines that are growing near your air conditioning unit and dryer vent.
Inspect and clean your gutters and make sure downspouts drain away from your foundation.
Patch up any cracks you find around foundation and driveways before they spread further.
Inspect your roof for cracked or missing shingles and trim branches that hang over the top of your roof.

Proactive home maintenance helps prevent small issues from getting out of hand. Your home is a huge investment and minimizing repair bills will help you realize your highest rate of return. When you’re done, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the lazy days of summer knowing that everything’s been taken care of!