COVID-19 means that we are spending more time at home in order to protect our own and others' safety. Social distancing and working from home when possible are also likely to be with us for some time.  To cope with this, we need to find new ways to do things we used to enjoy in a fully socially distanced way. In this post, we look at how to build your own movie screen as one way to enjoy some escapism and hark back to happier times in a safe and socially distanced way.

Step-by-step guide to make your own movie screen

When socially distancing, outdoor activities are better as they carry less risk than indoor activities. Equally, indoor cinemas make one of the worst environments in terms of risk of spreading COVID-19. As such, an outdoor movie screen is a great way to overcome this challenge. Theatres and cinemas around the world are also finding novel ways to bring performances to our homes. Why not enjoy it on the big screen, safe in the comfort of your own garden?

Here, we outline the simple steps you can follow to build your own outdoor movie screen from scratch:

1. Get materials together

The first thing you'll need to do is find or buy the following items:

• A large drop cloth canvas (for the screen) - make sure to buy a canvas that is not made from scraps and that is made form full panels.
• A projector (can you borrow one from work?)
• At least 26 screws
• 3 X 2 by 4 wooden studs
• An electric saw (a miter saw wood be good)
• A screwdriver
• A staple gun/ hammer and nails
• A measuring tape

2. Cut the screen frame to size

Once you've got your wood and canvas, you need to decide how big you want your screen to be. This will obviously have to be within the bounds of what is offered by the wood and the canvas. A 3-by-5 feet screen is a decent size that is fairly easy to maneuver. Cut your 2 X 4 wood studs as required. The 3 feet represents the height, whilst 5 feet is for the width.

For a 3 X 5 screen, this would actually require cutting 4 X 5 feet long wooden studs. The extra length on the height can then be used as feet for the screen. You will also need 2 pieces of at least 2 feet to attach as stabilizers for the feet/frame-legs. A miter saw makes this task easier but any saw will do. Alternatively, you could cut 2 extra studs so that the feet and the frame are separate if you have plenty of wood.

3. Assemble the screen frame

Lay out the frame flat on the ground, leaving the feet stabilizers to one side for the time being. Ideally, place the flattest edges together for a neater finish. The flattest edges will be likely to be the stud edges that were machine cut -  unless you're particularly neat with your cuts. These can then all be screwed together tightly.

It is a good idea to pre-drill holes in the frame. This helps to prevent the wood from splitting and makes the task a whole lot easier. Deck screws are ideal for this task. It's good to place at least 4 on each join to ensure that the frame is securely fastened together. This will also make it much more durable in the long-run.

4. Staple/nail your cloth canvas onto the frame

It's best to have at least a couple of pairs of hands for this next part. Ideally, the canvas should be big enough to be pulled tightly over the frame and stapled onto the back of the frame. A mid-thickness canvas of 8-10-oz will be easiest to work with. You should also give the canvas a good wash and dry it out first. This helps to ensure the screen is completely clean and helps to ensure there are no wrinkles in it before placement.

Pull the canvas tight and staple it in place if you have a staple gun. If not, you can hammer in the staples. Make sure to pull the canvas completely taut before stapling. Once it is stapled in place, you can trim off any unsightly edges. This would be very challenging with just a single pair of hands.

5. Attach the stabilizers

Now you're ready to test it's standing legs and attach the stabilizers. Put the 2 feet block you held in reserve against the base of the feet and screw it into place. If it feels at all unstable, you may wish to add a stabilizing bracket as a support between the stabilizer and the legs. This is a good idea if things can get a little bit windy where you live. However, this will require a couple of diagonal cuts which can be more challenging.

 With that, you are good to go! You will need a decent stand for your projector though so if  you are loving your newfound carpentry skills, then you can give making a box-stand a whirl with any leftover pieces from the screen frame.

This project won't take long to complete and is a great way to enjoy some light-relief in a challenging time. As quarantines adapt over time it also makes it possible to be in the vicinity of loved ones safely. With this project, we can do this whilst enjoying the wonders of the cinema, theatre, or anything else you want to watch in the great outdoors.

Scientific studies and reports have shown us the undeniable and devastating effects of climate change, prompting everyone to observe greener measures and practices to help protect the environment. As a result, living a greener and eco-friendly lifestyle has become the new norm for some people. Here are 10 tips that you can try to make your home greener, more sustainable and more equipped in the fight against climate change.

1. Conserve water

To live a greener and more sustainable life means that conservation must be observed at all times. One way to live by this rule is by saving water at home. How? By installing a good water fixture system. Make sure to get faucets, showerheads, toilets and other fixtures that are specially designed to promote water efficiency and conservation. Alternatively, you can also be mindful of your water consumption at home — by turning off the faucet when not in use or making sure each showerhead is shut tightly to prevent any leaking. Doing all of this can greatly reduce your water bill, letting you save more money while saving the environment in the process.

2. Turn to solar panels to power your home

Instead of relying on electricity to power your home, you can explore an alternative in the form of solar panels. These panels can provide your home with 100% clean energy and electricity from the sun. They are also a good long-term investment and can even take up to 20 years before they fully break down. But apart from being a good monetary investment, solar panels are a good way to help save energy.

3. Use natural and organic cleaning products

Using harmful chemical cleaners for your home is not only detrimental to your health, but it also poses a handful of negative effects to the environment. When you wash these cleaning solutions away, they go straight into the water drainage and supply. Although there are systems in place to filter and purify this water discharge, it can take a long time, thus requiring more effort and energy. That’s why for most day-to-day cleaning tasks, consider switching to natural ingredients such as baking soda, vinegar and citrus fruits. This also applies if you’re going to hire a home and bedroom cleaning service; make sure to ask cleaners to only use organic cleaning products.

4. Reduce, reuse, recycle

Waste is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to pollution and climate change. You can do your part by recycling different items to reduce the amount of waste that gets produced at home. This includes reusing discarded plastic bottles and cans as plant holders; old newspapers and office papers as mats; and glass bottles and jars as accessories.

5. Practice making compost

Instead of throwing away your scraps and leftovers from the kitchen, turn them into compost. Simply create a compost bin in your garden and fill it with food waste on a daily basis. You’ll be surprised at how effective composting is in growing your plants.

6. Save electricity

Another easy way of helping the environment is by conserving electricity consumption at home. You can do this by switching off or unplugging appliances and other energy-consuming objects at home when not in use. Another tip is to also refrain from using the air conditioner as much as possible to help prevent extreme power consumption. You can work around this by using an electric fan instead, especially in cooler days and nights.

7. Use energy efficient light fixtures

If you’re ready to make the switch to a greener home, consider replacing your standard light bulbs with energy efficient light fixtures. These eco-friendly fixtures are better alternatives because they use less energy and are also proven to help lower energy consumption and electricity bills.

8. Downsize your living space

Downsizing may seem like an unusual way to be more eco-friendly, but it’s a proven way to help reduce energy and power consumption. If you have a large home with few occupants, then it might be the perfect time to consider downsizing to a smaller space. This will not only let you save more money on upkeep and maintenance costs, but it is also a perfect opportunity to help the environment. By settling into a space that is just right for a specific number of occupants, you will also lessen the square footage required for cooling and heating.

9. Ditch plastic packaging

Going for a grocery run? Make sure to choose products that are packaged in biodegradable and recyclable materials such as paper, glass, card and even metal. Avoid buying plastic-packaged products as much as possible to reduce harmful waste. Additionally, bring an eco bag with you to do away with plastic bags that can harm the environment.

10. Buy recycled materials

Another way to promote a greener living space is by buying items for your home that have been recycled or repurposed. This will not only help you save money, but it will also extend the life of these items and reduce the waste footprint of newly bought items.

Nowadays, the market offers several packaged CCTVs that are meant for self-installation from handy homeowners. But more often, deciding on the functional areas to install the appliances becomes a significant problem.

If this is becoming a big concern, having an electrician do the work will make everything right. Additionally, you would want your security cameras to cover the most vulnerable areas in your home to provide you with the needed safety.

Also, understand that security camera installation is not just about setting up the cameras, but it is also about your budget and some other factors. Here are six essential tips when hiring the right contractor to furnish your home with closed-circuit television cameras.

Optimize the Areas of Visibility 

People have different priorities when it comes to finances, property improvements, and security projects. But when it comes to security camera maintenance and installations, no rules and no minimums are tying it up with rigorous guidelines.

When you want an optimized coverage of vulnerable areas, consider and identify which parts of your vicinity need extreme safeguarding. With the help of a professional electrician, you will be able to pinpoint which sections and which parts of your house needs constant surveillance.

Some of the areas to consider during the initial inspections include:

• The front door
• The exterior sides including the back and side doors
• Garage and driveway
• Common areas including the stairway and hallway
• Yard

Ensure Your CCTV Follows Industry Guidelines for Functionality

Strategizing on the installation of the security cameras often falls on the electrician who knows how to maximize coverage and increase its functionality.  But this does not mean that you can provide them with valuable input. Often, your suggestions are needed since you know the ins and outs of your home.

Although it’s vital to get the needed angle, particularly if you have a stationary circuit camera, there are some guidelines to consider. For example, camera installation should have a fitting height that is both out of reach of possible intruders, but close enough to capture fine details.

Outdoor security cameras should also be protected against natural elements or hidden from visible view to avoid targeting vandalism and possible damages. An experienced electrician adequately addresses all these considerations.

Find the Right Corners and Indirect Lighting Angles

Room corners provide the most significant vantage point for security camera installations. Suggest to your electrician which corners around your house has the best vantage view of the surroundings.  Typically, you would know this because it would allow you to get the best footage without compromising or degrading image quality.

Also, consider light penetration, which can wash out camera footage and image quality. Be mindful of light fixtures, bright windows, and lamps when installing inside the house. And avoid installing the circuit camera on areas that directly point towards the sun.

Based on your recommendations and the legal installation agreement, a professional installer can help you get the best out of your security camera investment. It should coincide with your comfort levels and provide you with the property surveillance that you and your family need.

Finally, getting the services of a certified electrician will get your hands off the complex processes of installing or maintaining the security system. There might be DIY options, but nothing compares to the installation quality of a knowledgeable technician.

Technology has already brought so much comfort in our lives, and home automation is giving us even more. When it first came out in the early 2010s, the system was new and priced prohibitively that only a handful were able to afford it. But as recent developments made it more accessible, many homeowners are starting to show interest.

Home automation is done by connecting devices and electronics into a common network that can be independently and remotely controlled.  Your lights, security cameras, appliances, TVs, locks, etc. can be connected into a common network that can be controlled by a single device such as a mobile phone or tablet.

Those who are completely unfamiliar with the concept may ask: Why do all that? Here are five good answers.

1. Great surveillance features for home security

Most homeowners have home automation mainly for security purposes. Safety is your main priority when at home and more so when you are away. Security systems incorporated in mobile devices are easy to use and give you control of the situation wherever you are. Having an automated system allows you to lock the door with a tap of a finger even when you are at work. You need not worry that your kids left the door unlocked when rushing to catch the school bus. With a security system integrated with your mobile phone, you can monitor the people going in and out of your house even when you are not there.

2. Safety and convenience in managing all home devices

Another benefit you get from automation is added safety for your home and its occupants. With home automation, you can control your appliances such as the AC, stove, and lighting using your mobile device. You will not have to worry if you forgot to turn off your electric stove before you left for work. You can take care of it with a tap of a finger and not give it any more thought. 

3. Makes your home energy-efficient

Home automation helps you save on electricity by allowing you to control the lights and other appliances in your home with a single device and from anywhere with connectivity. You can set a time for the AC to turn off when the temperature is already stabilised inside.  With home automation, you can  remotely control any appliance integrated to your mobile device when they are not in use, increasing energy efficiency and lowering utility bills.

4. Home appliances run better

Having home automation allows you to enjoy your appliance at its optimum. Connecting your appliances to automation technology allows you to experience higher functionality making your appliances perform better and smarter.

5. Improve your lifestyle 

With the advanced technology attached to home automation, you may be able to get insights on how to live a healthier life. You can use this technology to monitor the length of time you spend watching tv or observe your monthly energy consumption. From this information, you can adjust to the lifestyle that suits your needs best.

The countless benefits from automation and its ease of use are attracting more homeowners. It is a highly advanced way to simplify things, which is ironic in some ways. What is even more interesting is that home automation is only at its infancy. People can expect even bigger things in the years to come.

Communicable diseases can spread in different ways from one person to another. In the North Shore, in Sydney, this problem can be exacerbated by the presence of a body of water that could contain pathogens, probably caused by untreated wastewater discharged into the ocean. Though only 1% of Sydney’s wastewater is discharged untreated into Vaucluse, Diamond Bay, and Diamond Bay South, it is still a risk for spreading disease.

Faulty plumbing systems at home can also be a reason for the spread of disease. Hiring a professional plumber North Shore will help you determine if your plumbing and sewerage systems are up to date.

Improper Sanitation and the Spread of Disease

Germs that cause diseases can be spread from sewage or effluent if it is not handled properly. Proper toilet hygiene is essential to prevent the spread of disease among people in your homes and community. It is also possible that pests and insects could be exposed to these pathogens and spread them through direct contact with other pets or humans. A properly-maintained sewage disposal system is essential to maintain public health. Blocked, damaged or worn out parts must be fixed as soon as possible.

Problems with Sewage and Plumbing

Effluent waste collecting in pools as a result of broken sewage pipes or an overflowing sewage lagoon contains disease-causing germs that can be spread by mosquitoes and other insects. It also contains different germs and parasites that are dangerous to humans.

Check your house for any septic tanks that are uncovered or broken, which can expose people to effluent waste. It usually has a nasty foul too. Cover them up as soon as possible.

Backed up toilets and sinks are also major concerns for health experts. This problem exposes adults and children alike to disease-causing germs. Make sure that your toilets and sinks are properly maintained to prevent blockage.

Leach drains for septic tanks that are too near water sources are also major health hazards. The liquid wastes soak through the soil into the water supply or body of water, which then is ingested by unknowing humans or animals.

Latrines or pit-toilets are a kind of toilet where the waste goes directly into the ground. These types of toilets are still used in remote areas of Australia where water is in short supply. Again, if these toilets are situated too close to dwellings, food supply, or water supply, it can be a major health hazard. Try to place any latrines as far from any house as possible. You also need to make sure that these toilets are put in enclosed buildings, at least. Having no roof will increase the chances of disease-causing bacteria spreading through the air.

Responsibility to Society

Each individual needs to make sure that he does not contribute to the spread of disease in their area. A healthy community usually means healthy families, as well. A properly-maintained sewage disposal system is vital for everyone’s safety. That is why if you see any of the signs mentioned; call a plumber from North Shore to fix the problem immediately.

Living in the North Shore is not easy, because of its proximity to water. Every person must do his part in stopping the spread of disease. We can only do so much in controlling insects and wild animals. However, we can control how our households and communities dispose of waste.

One of the biggest dreams of all homeowners is to have a swimming pool in their backyard. It could be the perfect place to relax and unwind during a scorching hot day. It could also be an ideal venue to host a summer party at home. During your private time, you may also use the pool for some cardio exercises. Once you finally afford to have a pool installed in your property, you must make sure that you will take care of it properly.

Just like any other portions of the house, swimming pools also have several components that require regular maintenance. Companies like Dowdens Pumping & Water Treatment, which supply different types of pool and spa pumps, pool cleaning accessories, chlorinators, and other swimming pool paraphernalia, also offer services and repairs for residential pools.

Aside from professional maintenance services, here are several ways to make sure that your swimming pool gets the right attention.

Know The Essential Parts Of A Swimming Pool

Your swimming pool can be as straightforward or state-of-the-art as you wish. If you want to do other things in your pool aside from swimming, you can add additional accessories like lighting fixtures and heating equipment if you are going to swim at night. You may also install automated pool covers to keep it clean when not in use. But aside from these extra components, the main parts of a swimming pool include the pool water, its interior liner or wall, and the filter system.

The pool water is precisely what it is. But no one will enjoy swimming in a pool filled with dirty water. So always make sure to keep the pool water clean and free from any pollutants and contaminants to protect the entire pool. The pool walls are the part of the pool that is always in direct contact with the water. It must be free from any moulds, algae, and debris.

Finally, the pool filter system keeps the entire pool going. The pump maintains the water circulation, while the filter takes away most dirt and contaminants from the water. You can find different types of pool filter system from local suppliers, like Dowdens Pumping & Water Treatment. It’s you who must understand the needs to decide which filter system will suit your pool.

Understand The Three C’s Of Pool Maintenance 

For proper caring of your swimming pool, you must learn the Three C’s. The first C symbolises Circulation. If the water in your pool remains stagnant, it will eventually turn dirty and unsafe to use. You need to make sure that the water circulates properly to prevent algae infestation.

The second C is about Cleaning. To make sure that you can keep the pool in its pristine condition all the time, you need to invest in cleaning materials like net skimmer, pool brush, and a pool vacuum. Always keep your pool clean to avoid the possibility of bacterial contamination.

The third C refers to Chemistry. You need not be a science expert to understand how the pool water chemistry works. You just need to know three essential things, including the pool water’s pH levels, its alkalinity, as well as its sanitiser levels. After learning all these, you can begin to add or reduce the chemicals you mix in your pool water.

After learning these maintenance tips, you need to make sure that you follow the right ways to clean your pool. Include the pool cleaning job in your regular schedules to ensure that it remains spic and span all the time. Call your local pool supplies and service provider to check on your swimming pool frequently, so you can get an assurance that all the filters and pumps are working accurately.

Many people rely on their sprinkler system to assist in keeping their yard, plants, or grass healthy, but with active use, problems are bound to arise. Being aware of the signs of a problem, and knowing when to call a professional, might be the difference between an easy repair, or a costly mistake. Luckily, most problems with your sprinkler system can be easily addressed with regular maintenance. Make yourself aware of some of the most common instances in which you should call for sprinkler repair.

Discolored patches

Patches of yellow or brown grass can indicate major or minor issues. If you are experiencing discolored patches in your lawn, you might only have a faulty sprinkler head, but you also might have incorrect zone settings. For cases of discolored patches, it is essential to call a sprinkler repair service.

Calling a professional to repair your sprinklers if you have discolored patches will ensure you will find the cause of the problem, and you will also avoid killing areas of your lawn. If you have plants that run on a sprinkler system, this is even more imperative as it will allow them to continue growing and thriving as they were before.

Overly soaked and uneven pools of water

Another indication of possible faulty sprinkler heads or incorrect zone settings are areas that are overly saturated with water. If you are experiencing pooling of water or overly soaked areas, then you will need to contact a professional to make sure your system provides balanced coverage. This problem can also be an indication of a leak in the home’s irrigation system, as this can negatively impact the water distribution.

Constantly dripping valves

The amount of water that is distributed in each zone of your lawn or garden is determined by the back end of your sprinkler system, which is your valves. Valves that are operating properly should never be leaking or dripping. Finding damp areas around your filters or pressure regulators generally means that there might be an issue.

These issues can be due to grass clippings or dirt particles accumulating in your equipment. This will result in leaks and will also compromise your entire operation. If you see drops of water regularly around any valves, filters, or regulators, make sure to call a professional to get the problem diagnosed right away.

Sputtering sprinkler heads

When your system’s sprinkler heads begin to sputter or spray off their usual target, this can be a sign of a larger problem. This issue generally occurs due to pop-up heads shifting out of their proper position. This can end up having the sprinkler heads sputter the water into puddles. Sputtering heads might also be a response to issues with pressure or valves and contacting a professional will allow you to catch the problem before it becomes a larger issue.

Pressure problems

The pressure of your sprinkler system is important and whether you have too little pressure or too much pressure, this is a serious problem. When your sprinkler system is not receiving enough pressure, it will result in your yard or garden receiving less water than it requires. If your sprinkler system is releasing excessive pressure, then you might cause extra wear on your equipment.

Fluctuations between high and low pressures might be due to the regulators, control valves, or even an issue with the irrigation pipes, which can be because of tree roots. Having a professional let you know the cause of these problems is the only way you can be sure to prevent future issues.

Impacted sprinkler performance

Although not always obvious to the naked eye, sprinkler heads can develop chips and cracks. These chips and cracks can greatly impact performance. Another reason why you might have an impacted sprinkler performance is due to accumulated debris.

Accumulated debris can result in off-target spraying which not only wastes water but will also result in eventual neglect of your lawn. Professional lawn experts can let you know exactly the problem with your sprinklers and why you are having poor performance before it gets out of hand.

Extraordinarily high water costs

If you have had your sprinkler system running for at least one year, you will most likely be aware of water costs to expect for each month and season. If you happen to open a water bill for the month and it seems extraordinarily higher than normal, you will want to contact an irrigation professional.

Overly high water costs are often due to the result of a control valve that is delivering loads that are unbalanced. This can also be due to a bad pressure regulator that has forced too much water through your system. Generally, a huge spike in your water usage is a reason to be concerned and it is important to have it looked at and fixed right away.

Cut wires

Another common problem amongst underground sprinkler systems is accidentally cutting wires. Generally, cut wires can occur easily while performing small tasks such as digging up a root. If you find yourself in a situation with a cut, ripped or severed wire, do not try to repair this yourself. It is incredibly important that you do not attempt fixing this yourself.

Anything that is regarding the electricity of your sprinkler system needs to be left to the professionals. Not only could you detrimentally harm your sprinkler system, but even worse, you could accidentally electrocute yourself! Irrigation specialists can quickly identify and solve the problem because they are trained professionals.

Any noticeable issues with your sprinkler equipment

If you notice issues with any of your pipes, valves, or even sprinklers themselves, you need to repair them as quickly as possible. Contacting a professional to have the proper repair done might be the difference between a quickly solved issue, and a long term problem. For any irrigation system problems, big or small, contact Colorado Sprinkler Service, a Denver sprinkler repair company, to help ensure your sprinkler system is efficiently working and so that no other issues arise.