Junk Removal Near Emory College

Junk Removal Made Easy: Your Guide to Services Near Emory College

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Embracing Clarity and Community in Tackling Junk

Junk removal – it’s a task we often put off, but one that inevitably impacts everyone, especially in a bustling academic community like Emory College. Whether you’re a student moving out, a professor renovating an office, or a local resident decluttering, understanding your junk removal options is crucial. This article isn’t just about getting rid of stuff. It’s about creating space, peace of mind, and understanding the nuances of junk removal near Emory College.

1. Understanding Your Junk Removal Needs

First, let’s talk about what “junk” really means. It could be anything from old furniture, electronic waste, to piles of forgotten textbooks. Each type of junk requires a different approach. For instance, electronic waste shouldn’t just be tossed in a dumpster due to its hazardous components.

2. Options for Junk Removal

Junk removal near Emory College can be broadly classified into DIY and professional services.

DIY Approach: This is for those who prefer hands-on control. It involves renting a dumpster or hauling items to a local dump or recycling center. While this might seem cost-effective, it requires significant time and effort.

Professional Services: These companies handle everything from picking up your junk to disposing of or recycling it responsibly. They save time but can be pricier.

Balancing Cost and Convenience: DIY is cheaper but labor-intensive, whereas professional services are more convenient but cost more.

3. Eco-Friendly Disposal

Sustainability is a key concern. Many junk removal services near Emory prioritize eco-friendly practices, ensuring items are recycled or donated, reducing landfill waste. This is crucial in a community that values environmental responsibility.

4. Timing and Scheduling

Timing can be tricky, especially around the academic calendar. End-of-semester periods see a surge in junk removal needs. Planning ahead can save you from the rush and potential higher costs during peak times.

5. Local Regulations and Policies

Be aware of local regulations regarding waste disposal. Certain items may have specific disposal guidelines. Ignorance isn’t an excuse for improper disposal, which can harm the environment and incur fines.

6. Size and Volume Considerations

Estimate the volume of your junk. This affects whether you’ll need a dumpster rental, a simple pickup service, or multiple trips. Misjudging the size can result in increased costs or delays.

7. Safety and Health Concerns

Safety is paramount. Heavy or hazardous items pose risks. Professional services have the expertise and equipment to handle these safely, which is something to consider if you’re thinking of the DIY route.

8. Community Impact and Involvement

Junk removal isn’t just an individual concern; it’s a community one. Participating in or organizing community clean-up days near Emory can foster a sense of togetherness and collective responsibility.

9. Comparing Services

Research is key. Compare different services based on cost, eco-friendliness, and reliability. Online reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations are valuable resources.

10. Long-Term Strategies

Consider long-term solutions to reduce junk. This could mean buying less, choosing more sustainable items, or organizing regular decluttering sessions.

Challenges and Trade-offs

Every option comes with its challenges. DIY approaches, while cost-effective, can be time-consuming and physically demanding. Professional services, though convenient, can impact your budget. The balance between eco-friendly disposal and practical considerations is another challenge. Making informed choices can help navigate these trade-offs effectively.

In Conclusion

Junk removal near Emory College is more than just a chore; it’s an opportunity to contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable environment. By understanding the various factors involved, from costs to environmental impact, you can make decisions that benefit not just yourself, but the entire Emory community. Remember, the goal is not just to remove junk, but to do so responsibly, efficiently, and in a way that strengthens our sense of community.

Construction Debris Removal Tucker

Navigating the Maze of Basement Clean-Out: Your Guide to a Spick and Span Space!

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Are you staring down a basement filled with years of accumulated stuff and wondering where to start? You’re not alone! Basement clean-outs can be daunting, but with the right approach, they can also be incredibly rewarding. Let’s unpack the nuts and bolts of basement clean-outs, including insights into junk removal services in Atlanta, and how to balance various factors to achieve the best results.

Understanding the Importance of Basement Clean-Out

Basements often become the default storage space for items we can’t find a place for elsewhere. Over time, this can lead to clutter, which not only makes finding things difficult but can also lead to problems like mold, mildew, and pest infestations. A well-organized basement clean-out can not only give you back valuable space but also help maintain the health of your home.

Start with a Plan

Like any big project, a successful basement clean-out starts with a solid plan. Here’s how to begin:

  1. Set Realistic Goals: What do you want to achieve? A storage area, a new living space, or just a good decluttering? Setting clear goals will guide your efforts.
  2. Schedule It: Block out a specific time for your clean-out. This might be a weekend or several afternoons, depending on the size of your basement and the amount of stuff.
  3. Sort and Categorize: As you sift through your belongings, categorize them into keep, donate, sell, or remove. Be decisive – if you haven’t used something in a year, do you really need it?

Balancing Effort and Resources

The biggest challenge in a basement clean-out is often balancing the effort involved with the resources at your disposal. Consider these trade-offs:

  1. DIY vs. Hiring Professionals: Doing it yourself can save money but can be time-consuming and physically demanding. Hiring professionals, like junk removal services in Atlanta, can be more efficient but involves an additional cost.
  2. Time vs. Thoroughness: You may want to get the job done quickly, but rushing can mean missing important details like sorting items properly for donation or recycling.

Junk Removal Services: A Key Player

In cities like Atlanta, junk removal services can be a game-changer. They can handle heavy lifting, proper disposal, and even recycling or donating items, saving you time and effort. Here’s how to choose the right service:

  1. Research and Compare: Look for reputable services with good reviews and transparent pricing.
  2. Understand Services Offered: Some services may offer additional help, like sorting or even donating items on your behalf.
  3. Eco-Friendly Options: Consider companies that prioritize recycling and donating to minimize waste.

Challenges and How to Overcome Them

  1. Emotional Attachments: It’s common to have emotional ties to items. To overcome this, consider the practicality and usefulness of each item.
  2. Space Limitations: In a city environment, you might have limited space to sort items. Utilize your driveway or rent a small dumpster for temporary storage while sorting.
  3. Health and Safety: Basements can have mold, dust, and other hazards. Wear protective gear and consider professional help for hazardous materials.

Creating a Community Effort

Engaging your community in your clean-out can add a layer of fun and support. Share tools, swap items, and even organize a neighborhood yard sale for items you want to sell.

The Final Touch

Once you’ve cleared the junk, consider ways to prevent future clutter. Invest in shelving units, storage bins, and regular maintenance schedules to keep your basement in top shape.

Conclusion: Your Path to a Clean Basement

Remember, a basement clean-out is more than just getting rid of stuff; it’s about creating a functional and enjoyable space in your home. Whether you tackle it DIY-style or enlist the help of junk removal services in Atlanta, the journey to a clean basement is well worth the effort.

So, roll up those sleeves and let’s turn that basement into a space you can be proud of!

junk removal near Georgia State University

Transform Your Attic from Cluttered to Cleared: A Simple Guide for Every Homeowner!

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Hey there, friends and neighbors!

Have you ever peeked into your attic and thought, “Wow, when did I become a collector of all things forgotten?” You’re not alone! Attics are notorious for becoming the catch-all space for items we don’t know what to do with. But fear not, because today we’re diving into the world of attic clean-outs, and guess what? It’s going to be more fun than you think!

Why Bother with Attic Clean-Outs?

First things first, why should you even bother? Well, aside from giving you more space, a clean and organized attic can actually prevent issues like mold growth and rodent infestations. Plus, it’s pretty satisfying to transform a cluttered mess into a well-organized area, right?

Let’s Break It Down: Step-by-Step

  1. Plan Your Attack: Choose a day (or a weekend) and commit to it. Get your family or friends involved – it’s more fun and efficient!
  2. Safety First: Make sure you have gloves, masks, and sturdy shoes. Attics can be dusty and have hidden nails or sharp objects.
  3. Sorting Time: As you go through items, sort them into categories: keep, donate, recycle, and junk. Be honest with yourself – if you haven’t used it in years, do you really need it?
  4. Organizing the Keepers: Once you’ve sorted through everything, organize what you’re keeping. Clear storage bins are great for this, and don’t forget to label!

Common FAQs

  1. What should I do with old, unwanted items?
  2. How often should I clean out my attic?
    • Ideally, doing a quick check annually is great to prevent buildup.
  3. Is it worth hiring professionals for junk removal?

Making It a Community Affair

Why not make attic cleaning a neighborhood event? It’s a great way to build community spirit and you can even share resources like ladders or tools. Plus, hiring a junk removal service together can often be more cost-effective.

Near Georgia State University? We’re Here for You!

For our friends and neighbors near Georgia State University, tackling an attic clean-out might seem daunting due to space constraints or busy schedules. But don’t worry, there are services right around the corner ready to help you out. Whether it’s junk removal or just some friendly advice, you’re not alone in this.

The Final Sweep

Once you’ve removed the junk and reorganized, give your attic a good sweep or vacuum. You’ll be amazed at how much more welcoming it looks and feels.

Ready, Set, Go!

So, are you ready to tackle your attic? Remember, it’s not just about cleaning; it’s about creating a space that works for you and your family. And if you’re near Georgia State University and need a hand with the junk, you know who to call!

How to properly dispose appliances

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Proper disposal of appliances is important to ensure environmental sustainability and the safe handling of potentially hazardous materials. Here are some guidelines for disposing of appliances responsibly:

  1. Check for Recycling Options: Before considering disposal, check if there are recycling programs or facilities available in your area. Many appliances can be recycled, which helps recover valuable materials and reduces waste. Contact your local recycling center or municipal waste management authority to inquire about specific recycling options for appliances.
  2. Donate or Sell Working Appliances: If your appliance is still in good working condition, consider donating or selling it instead of disposing of it. Many charitable organizations, thrift stores, or online platforms allow you to donate or sell used appliances. This extends the lifespan of the appliance and benefits someone who may not be able to afford a new one.
  3. Arrange for Pick-Up Services: In some areas, you can schedule a pick-up service for large appliances from your local waste management authority or recycling center. They will typically provide instructions on how to prepare the appliance for collection and set a convenient date for pick-up.
  4. Hire a Junk Removal Service: Junk removal services can be a convenient option when you need to dispose of appliances and other bulky items. These services specialize in the removal and proper disposal of various types of waste, including appliances. They have the necessary equipment and expertise to handle the job efficiently.

GoGo Junk Removal is recognized as a reliable service in the Atlanta metro area. Our customer reviews are impeccable, and our prices can’t be beat.

Remember to always prioritize proper disposal methods to protect the environment and comply with local regulations.

GOGO Junk Removal Services

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GOGO Junk Removal is one of the leading junk removal services in your area. Getting the house and workplace in order and making it clean and tidy brings you peace of mind. But once you are done with arranging everything, you will see a lot of trash and other junk left out. You might think that dumping it on your own is easy but loading and finding a specific place to dispose of it is quite inconvenient. Hiring GOGO Junk Removal will solve all your problems.

 

GOGO Junk Removal has a wealth of experience in junk and debris removal services. We want our customers to live in clean and safe surroundings. We have skilled and equipped staff to handle this job. Our junk removal services are very efficient, trusted, and prompt. We are an eco-friendly junk removal company minimizing the land waste to as low as possible. We donate the things to the charities that can be used and are in good condition and other useful items are sent for recycling. You can have our services at highly affordable rates and can make your place tidied and cleaned. If there is yard debris, general house junk, or construction debris, get remarkable junk removal services by GOGO Junk Removal.

Old furniture in your house:

Other appliances that are not in use 

Other appliances that are not in use

If you are shifting to a new place, there must be a lot of furniture that you might not want to take to your new house. On your moving day, GOGO Junk Removal can remove all the old furniture so that you can have some room for the new one. If there are sofas and beds that you want to replace with new ones, you will first have to get rid of the old furniture so the new stuff can fit in. Our experts are skilled and trained to carry heavy furniture and load it in trucks. You might get injured from handling the furniture because of its edges and it is heavy. Leave all your worries on us and we will make sure that our junk and furniture removal services will be up to your satisfaction.

Other appliances that are not in use:

Old furniture in your house 

Old furniture in your house

You might be having an electrical appliance in your garage for a long time that needs to be removed. If you are sick of the nonfunctional appliances lying in your house for no reason and covering up a room that can be used for some other useful purpose, you just have to give GOGO Junk Removal a call. We will have them removed in a second. You don’t have to go near a dysfunctional air-conditioner in your basement because of the foul smell. Leave this work to the professionals. Our expert workers are trained to carry all types of things, whether sharp, heavy or hazardous, you will not have to worry about them.

Junk of old toys:

Junk of old toys 

Junk of old toys

Today, children love to have as many toys as they can. They keep on buying new things and after getting bored of them, don’t care anymore and throw them away. When you deep clean your children’s room, you will find a lot of toys and other stuff that they don’t use anymore. There can be a lot of trash stored in your house this way and it must be occupying a lot of space that can be used for some other purpose. GOGO Junk Removal will cart off all these needless things. You will be happy to hire a junk removal company that gives back to its community. Before dumping your stuff in the landfills, we separate the things that can be donated to needy ones. Other useful things go for recycling.

Want to make your room clean:

Want to make your room clean

Want to make your room clean

Are you deep cleaning your room after quite some time? There must be a lot of trash in your room that you want to remove instantly. If you want to get rid of all the junk that has been occupying space in your house for a long time, GOGO Junk Removal will help you with that. We make sure to provide you junk removal services that will ensure your health and satisfaction. If there are some hazardous materials and you are looking for a way to discard them, leave that to us. We will not only haul away all the clutter but before disposing of it, we will sort out the things that can be recycled and reused to prevent land pollution.

Providing the services quickly and efficiently:

GOGO Junk Removal values your time. We don’t keep our customers waiting. Our skilled and adept workers deliver you quick and accurate services. If there is heavy stuff or sharp objects, our trained workers can haul away all the mess in no time. We have advanced equipment to load the junk in the truck so that less time is consumed and more work is done. Your satisfaction is our priority.

Consuming all the space of your house:

Consuming all the space of your house

There can be a lot of unused boxes and dysfunctional appliances that take up a lot of space in your house. If your basement is full of impractical things and there are many things hoarded in your attic, GOGO Junk Removal will provide you riddance from all that stuff. Now you don’t have to load unnecessary things in your car and dispose of them. Our expert workers are here to provide you some remarkable junk removal services.

 

A proper schedule is given:

gogo junk removal

When you contact us for junk removal services, you are able to decide when the day and time. Either you want to have our services on the same day or some other day, you can schedule it according to your needs. You are able to manage your work and our workers will be at your services on the decided day and time.

 

GOGO Junk Removal has experienced and skilled workers who are dedicated to delivering you exceptional junk removal services. We value the satisfaction of our customers and therefore make sure that the services we provide are prompt and efficacious. You can relax and trust our process.

Junk Removal Services

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GoGo Junk Removal

Cleanliness is the best part of your life. The area where you live should be neat and clean so that you don’t have to face any disease that can harm your health. If you have any kind of junk, debris, or pile of garbage in your area then that can be your worst nightmare. Because it not only spreads viruses and diseases but also becomes the cause of the feeling of nausea. If you don’t remove junk in such a massive amount that you cannot hold by yourself then don’t worry you can assist the professional services of a junk removal company.

 

If the garage of your house and crawl space of your house is full of dust or unwanted garbage that needs to be removed, what you cannot do for yourself is to have professional services of junk removal. Experienced workers of GoGo Junk Removal will speedily move any kind of junk from your area and will guarantee you a clean space. The junk that is not removed for a while should be removed without any wait. Our workers are always there to serve you in the best way possible.

Old furniture in your house 

Old furniture in your house 

 

There might be some furniture that you don’t want in your house and it has become a part of the garbage. That it is in such bad condition that it cannot be used anymore and you want to get rid of it. So for the professional services of junk removal GoGo Junk Removal is always there for you. Our experienced workers will break your furniture into different parts and then will remove it from your area easily so that you don’t have to worry about the old and rusty furniture anymore.

Other appliances that are not in use 

Other appliances that are not in use 

There might be some other non-working appliances in your house that you want to remove and don’t want them in your house anymore. GoGo Junk Removal will help you in this regard as this is the unwanted equipment filling your house space unnecessarily and it is necessary to remove them. So you should just get rid of them as early as possible as they are just part of the garbage and nothing else.

 

Junk of old toys 

Junk of old toys 

Children these days buy a lot of toys and they feel bored after some days and don’t want them anymore so these toys can be a massive amount of garbage in your house if not removed regularly and will occupy most of your space. Our workers will gather all the unnecessary toys and will crush them into smaller pieces and then deliver them to the factory where they can be recycled and can be reused. For this purpose, GoGo Junk Removal will help you and will make you get rid of it in no time.

 

Want to make your room clean 

Want to make your room clean

Sometimes the roof of a house can be harmful to your health as it is full of dust, garbage, and other unnecessary materials. People don’t take time to remove their items to a specified place and throw them on the roof. In this way, the roof becomes full of dust and unnecessary items that need to be removed in time, as they can damage your roof and can cause cracks in it. GoGo Junk Removal provides you the facility of removing debris from your house roof as early as possible so that you don’t have to face any other issues.

 

Providing the services quickly and efficiently 

GoGo Junk Removal provides you the services that you wouldn’t forget, that’s the reason why the customers are always attracted to our service. Any kind of items that are not in use like clothes, shoes, or any other stuff that you want to get rid of. We will help you in this regard and will provide you with the best services that you will be satisfied with.

 

Consuming all the space of your house 

If there is a massive amount of anything in your house and that is not in use anymore will fill up more space in your house. In this way, you will get frustrated and wouldn’t be able to decide what you want and what you want to get rid of. So for your help GoGo Junk Removal will provide you the services that will help you in extinguishing the unnecessary items and how you can get rid of them easily.

 

A proper schedule is given 

gogo junk removal

 

So the GoGo Junk Removal not only removes the items but will let you decide when you want to remove them, at which day, and at which time. In this way it will be easy for you to manage your daily routine work, our experienced workers will remove it according to your decided schedule. This will be helpful and will save you and the company time.

 

GoGo Junk Removal has experienced and trained workers that work for the satisfaction of their customers to provide them with the best services. So they don’t have to look at any other company for the removal of their junk and that they can relax and get their work done in no time.

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Top Tips to Deep Clean this Spring

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(BPT) – This year spring cleaning is more than ever about the deep clean. Spring typically inspires a little more time dedicated to cleaning. In fact, a recent survey commissioned by Bona and conducted by Harris Poll found that more than half of U.S. adults say that the start of spring triggers extra cleaning in the household. In the past it might have been more about simply dusting hard-to-reach corners and cleaning out the fridge. This year it’s also about deep cleaning and disinfecting for health and safety.

Here are a few tips to deep clean this spring for anyone tackling the task.

Focus on high-use areas first

It may not be realistic to deep clean your whole home in one weekend so consider targeting busy areas of your home first. Bedrooms, bathrooms, family room, kitchen and entry areas likely get the most foot traffic, so start there and leave lesser used areas of the home for later. Gather some helpers and set a timeframe to establish a clear goal and end time. Consider a second round of cleaning if you’re unable to complete the task.

Clear out the clutter

Create a system that works for you to clear out the clutter and make space to deep clean. Set up boxes or bags clearly labeled “Trash,” “Recycle,” “Donate,” and “Belongs elsewhere”. Go through each target room, putting anything that shouldn’t be there in one of the labeled containers.

Be sure to get these boxes or bags where they belong to avoid additional house clutter (we’ve all been guilty of moving a pile from one room to another!). You’ll feel lighter and happier just seeing those boxes and bags head out the door. Consider tasking a family member with trash or donation drop-off.

Prioritize large surface areas

Once you’ve cleared the excess clutter, wipe down the room from top to bottom. Clean the dust accumulated on top of bookshelves or ceiling fans first, then wipe down walls from top to bottom to remove dust and grime, using a microfiber mop or cloth. Prioritize large surfaces like countertops and tables as well as potential germ hotspots like the kitchen sink. Finish up with the floors by vacuuming carpet or by using a cleaner tailored for your hardwood or hard-surface floors.

Disinfect

At every opportunity look for areas to disinfect. Focus on high-use items and areas like remote controls, doorknobs, drawer pulls, and keypads. Consider using products that use hydrogen peroxide, a proven, healthier way to kill germs. Many traditional antibacterial cleaners use quaternary ammonium compounds or “quats.” This specific class of chemicals is linked to skin irritation and respiratory problems and use of quats is contributing to the global problem of antimicrobial resistance.

For example, Bona PowerPlus® Antibacterial Hard-Surface Floor Cleaner is a new, hydrogen peroxide powered cleaning solution specifically designed to clean and disinfect hard, non-porous flooring surfaces. This ready-to-use antibacterial cleaner is formulated to clean and remove stubborn stains while killing 99.9% of household germs* with the power of hydrogen peroxide when used as directed. It also leaves your home smelling fresh and clean with no residue left behind.

Finishing touches

Once you’ve thoroughly cleaned and refreshed your rooms, brainstorm other ways to improve your living space:

  •  Donate excess, little-used furniture to create more space
  •  Identify tasks best left to professionals, like exterior window cleaning or hardwood floor refinishing
  •  Display brightly colored artwork to renew your walls
  •  Set out a vase or two of colorful flower arrangements

Let your deep cleaning this spring bring a little renewal and brightness to your home. A clean home is also a healthy home for family, pets and friends.

*Kills 99.9% of Influenza A H1N1 Virus, Rhinovirus, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella enterica, Staphylococcus aureus, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus [MRSA], and Trichophyton mentagrophytes on hard, non-porous surfaces in 10 minutes.

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Simple ways to beautify your outdoor space and enjoy time at home

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(BPT) – Whether it’s a quaint patio, a simple garden, a rolling expanse of land or the many possibilities in between, the backyard is the perfect place to unwind. As people spend more time at home, creating a personal outdoor sanctuary is more important than ever before.

Fortunately you don’t need a lot of time or space to create an outdoor escape you’ll enjoy for months to come. Here are some simple, affordable ideas for transforming any space into an outdoor oasis where you can release stress and reconnect to Mother Nature:

Step 1: Pull up a chair

A place to sit and relax is essential so you can fully enjoy your outdoor space. This doesn’t mean you have to order a whole new set of patio furniture though. Just one or two chairs along with a table for your favorite beverage can be an inviting start. You could even update a worn outdoor chair with a fresh coat of outdoor paint and new cushions and you’ll get a brand new look for less. Add a few outdoor accent pillows for a splash of personality and to make the space reflect the same level of comfort found indoors.

Step 2: Define the space

You can create an outdoor room by defining the space strategically. Adding a rug is a great way to give the space a more intimate feel, just make sure it’s made for outdoor use specifically to stand up to the elements. You can also create a sense of enclosure with potted plants lined in the corners or along the sides to create the visual illusion of a wall. Try your hand at container gardening and you’ll enhance your space and provide fresh vegetables and herbs for home cooking.

Step 3: Add decorative accents

To make an outdoor space feel like your own, add a few thoughtful decorations. Outdoor mirrors are trending and an affordable, upscale addition to your outdoor areas. Decor such as signs, statues and mosaics can add style to any space. To add elements of relaxation, consider a rock garden, fountain or wind chimes, which will help you escape stress while stimulating the senses.

Step 4: Enjoy daily

Create a routine to enjoy your outdoor space daily. Schedule a morning meditation, afternoon escape or evening happy hour. Raise a glass of your favorite Flat Top Hills wine and toast to living life to the fullest, even from the comfort of your backyard. Whether it’s a crisp sauvignon blanc, supple rosé, lush chardonnay, mouth-watering red blend or rich cabernet sauvignon, it’s the perfect way to enjoy your outdoor oasis.

Get started today

There’s no better time than the present to begin your backyard transformation. Start by entering the Flat Top Hills Backyard Sanctuary sweepstakes, which will award one winner with a makeover for a patio, garden or balcony. Other prizes include gift cards for meal delivery, a Flat Top Hills wine glass and wine bucket set, and mini corn hole games. Open now through May 31, enter the Flat Top Hills Backyard Sanctuary sweepstakes at www.facebook.com/FlatTopWines or woobox.com/4tfvnj. Visit www.flattopwines.com for complete details and official rules.

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4 outdoor cleaning tips that could help you save thousands

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(BPT) – The sounds of birds chirping, longer daylight hours, and budding trees and flowers are early signs that warmer weather and spring are on the way. That means more time outside to enjoy nature. It’s also a sign it might be time for a little spring cleaning.

“Cold temperatures, snowfall and winter rains can have a big effect on houses and landscaping, so now’s the time to check for potential home repairs and maintenance,” said Christopher O’Rourke, Mercury Insurance vice president of property claims. “Spring cleaning isn’t just about getting rid of belongings you no longer want or need — it’s also a time to get your home in tip-top shape so you can enjoy it throughout the rest of the year.”

Here are four tips O’Rourke recommends to welcome the new season and save some money down the road.

1. Clean your gutters.

Gutters collect debris over time, especially when rain, snow and wind causes twigs, pine needles and leaves to settle on your roof and in your rain gutters. Accumulated debris can create blockages that direct water into the home. In areas without much precipitation, this can act as kindling in the event of a fire. Buildup also allows mildew and mold to develop, which can slowly decay a home’s exterior and roof.

“Preventable damage like mold or mildew that develops and rots a home’s exterior isn’t covered by homeowners insurance,” said O’Rourke. “It’s important to routinely clean out gutters — even if you have gutter guards installed, they don’t completely protect against debris building up eventually. An hour or two spent cleaning or checking your gutters is time well spent compared to the alternative.”

2. Trim branches and remove dangerous trees.

Thunderstorm frequency picks up in summer months, and high winds can occur year round. It’s best to get a jump on tree maintenance in early spring. Regularly trimming tree branches reduces their chance of breaking during a storm, which could cause power outages or property damage.

“Properly trimmed branches present a lower risk of falling onto your home, power lines or possibly injuring someone on your property,” said O’Rourke. “Also, in areas that are prone to wildfires, trimmed trees create a buffer zone to help lower the chances of flames easily jumping onto your roof.”

Consider having the trees on your property inspected by an arborist. This assessment will determine their health and allow you to removed diseased trees before they topple over unexpectedly. Removal costs vary depending on height and difficulty, but range from $100 to around $1,800. These preventative costs are not covered by your homeowners policy. However, they are a wise investment that saves you time, money and anxiety.

3. Watch out for service lines.

Homeowners who want to plant gardens, trees or install additional landscape features to enhance their outdoor living space should be aware of potential underground utility lines. Most service lines — a network of exterior, underground utility lines or pipes that supply a home with electricity, gas, water and sewer functions — are only buried a few inches beneath the ground. Accidentally hitting one when digging can result in loss of service, expensive repairs or a serious injury.

If a break to a service line happens on a homeowner’s property, special machinery may be needed to excavate pipes from beneath the ground, which may require digging under your home, garden or driveway. The homeowner is responsible for repair or replacement costs. This damage can be inconvenient, expensive and isn’t covered by a standard homeowners insurance policy.

“The average cost to repair a break to a service line is about $5,000 and most Americans wouldn’t welcome such a large surprise bill,” said O’Rourke. “Homeowners should definitely consider purchasing an endorsement to their insurance policy to protect against losses of this nature. Mercury offers this coverage as an addition to our home insurance policy and it costs as little as $8 a year, depending on the home’s age.”

To be safe, homeowners should call 811 before digging. This will allow the utility companies can send a locator to mark the approximate locations of underground service lines.

4. Service your air conditioning unit.

Regular maintenance of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems is essential to ensure the equipment is working properly. This can save money on energy bills, as well as protect against expensive repair and replacement costs.

“No one wants to unexpectedly find themselves living in a sauna during the dog days of summer, so the start of spring is a great time to have your air conditioner inspected,” said O’Rourke. “You should also change your air filter to make sure it’s operating at its highest efficiency, so when that heat wave hits you’ll be nice and cool inside your home.”

Have a professional inspect your HVAC unit to make sure its exterior condenser coil and compressor are clean and free from blockages. The average cost for an inspection is about $300.

Your home will bring you security and joy for many years to come. Taking the time to maintain it is well worth the investment.

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Spring cleaning for spring allergies: 6 steps from the experts

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spring-cleaning-for-spring-allergies-6-steps-from-the-experts

(BPT) – As days grow longer and new blooms appear, it can only mean one thing: Spring is here and with it comes the task of spring cleaning. For people with allergies, spring cleaning does more than spruce up a home. When done correctly, it removes dust, mold, dander and other allergy triggers so you can feel your best.

“There are specific things you can do while cleaning that can dramatically improve allergy symptoms,” says Dr. J. Allen Meadows, allergist and president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. “When you spring clean to remove allergens, you can breathe easier plus enjoy a sparkling home.”

Meadows and the experts at ACAAI recommend these steps when cleaning for allergies. Before you begin, keep in mind that when you clean you come in contact with many allergens. You may want to take allergy medication beforehand and if your allergy is severe, consider wearing an N95 filter mask while dusting or scrubbing.

Step 1: Dust thoroughly

Dust all surfaces in your home with a damp rag or microfiber cloth made for cleaning. Avoid using any kind of duster that simply kicks dust into the air. Additionally, clean vents and return registers to limit dust recirculating and finish by wet mopping tile and other hard flooring. Don’t neglect the area under the beds, which can get dusty and should be cleaned often. Eliminating dust helps your home shine and also removes some of the most notorious indoor allergy triggers.

Step 2: Clean carpets

Start by moving all furniture off the carpet. Then vacuum well with a cyclonic vacuum, which spins dust and dirt away from the floor, or a vacuum with a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter. Meadows does not advise shampooing carpet, because it can cause dust mite eggs to hatch. If you are using diluted bleach and water solution for spot treatments or to kill mold, make sure someone other than the allergy sufferer does the cleaning because bleach can trigger asthma.

Step 3: Clean window treatments

Window treatments like curtains and valances can be a magnet for dust and pollen yet are often ignored when it comes to cleaning. This spring, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and wash or dry clean window treatments. Remember, opening windows allows pollen and other allergens into your home, so during peak allergy season keep them closed, and whenever possible, use air conditioning in your car and home.

Step 4: Wash bedding

Wash sheets, pillowcases and blankets in water that is at least 130 degrees F. This temperature kills dust mites and effectively removes allergens. If bedding can’t be washed at this hot temperature, place items in the dryer for at least 15 minutes at 130 degrees or above. For children with allergies, do the same with their stuffed animals.

Step 5: Replace air filters

At the start of every season change the air filter in your furnace. This helps the HVAC system run efficiently while also filtering out air particles —including allergens — to keep your home’s air as clean as possible. Consider setting an alarm for every three months as a reminder and use filters with a MERV rating of 11 or 12. This is also a good time to clean the drip pans in appliances like the refrigerator.

Step 6. Control humidity

Bathrooms, basements and tiled spaces are prone to mold, so spring is a good time to deep clean. A bleach cleaner works well to eliminate mold or make your own by mixing borax and water. Next, help prevent mold from developing through moisture control. Always run bathroom fans when bathing or showering, clean up any standing water immediately and use a dehumidifier if needed to keep humidity below 60%.

“Spring cleaning is a great step in allergy control,” says Meadows. “However, if you continue to suffer from allergy or asthma symptoms, see a board-certified allergist to help you control your symptoms and live the life you want. You can find an allergist near you at acaai.org/locate-an-allergist.”