Author: Elle Snow

Body Essentials

Body Butter – The Ultimate Moisturizer

Elle Snow

Body Butter hydrates softens and revitalizes skin for a radiant glow. Apply after showering when the skin is damp to moisturize and lock in hydration deeply.

Body Butter

Look for a formula that is rich in shea, cocoa, and mango butter, as well as nourishing oils. You may also like a butter that contains squalane, which helps skin retain moisture. Visit https://www.thelittlehomesteadco.com/ for more details.

Shea butter is derived from the nuts of the shea or Karité tree (Vitellaria paradoxa) that grows in West Africa. It’s a versatile ingredient that is an excellent moisturizer and offers skin a boost of antioxidants, healthy fats, vitamins E and A, and phytosterols. It is also known for its soothing and calming effects.

In addition to hydrating and moisturizing, shea butter has anti-aging properties as well as other benefits such as being an effective treatment for itchy skin and reducing dark spots. It also helps relieve dry, irritated skin caused by sunburns or wind burn.

Its fatty acid composition is unique: it has oleic, stearic, palmitic, and linolenic acids which make it highly emollient and a good source of skin-nourishing Vitamin E. Its linolenic acid content is especially beneficial for the skin because it can help prevent premature aging and sun damage by protecting the epidermis from UV rays.

When selecting shea butter, look for organic and fair trade certifications which ensure that the shea is ethically harvested and produced. Choosing shea butter sourced from reputable producers can also help support sustainable development and economic empowerment for women in the communities where it is harvested.

Because shea butter is solid at room temperature, it’s best to use in products with other oils and butters that have a lower melting point to create a balanced formula that won’t be grainy when applied to the skin. When shea butter is added to a formulation, it’s important to stir continuously to trace as this helps the shea melt and blend evenly. Stirring can also help minimize graininess when using shea in emulsions like lotions and creams as this technique encourages the shea to cool evenly which is an important factor in preventing it from forming grainy clumps.

Shea butter may also be useful for reducing joint pain as shea contains many antioxidants and is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties. Research suggests that shea butter can reduce underlying inflammation in the joints and even help heal the wounds that cause arthritis by speeding up the tissue remodeling process.

Organic Cocoa Butter

Cocoa butter is pressed from the seeds of the cacao tree. It has a solid texture at room temperature, but melts at body temperature making it a popular ingredient in lotions, soaps, and creams. It also helps give products a creamy consistency. Cocoa butter is a good source of antioxidant Vitamin E and fatty acids that help soothe skin, reduce dryness, and moisturize. It can be used on its own, but often is mixed with other ingredients to create a variety of products, including whipped body butters, lotion bars, and other skincare ointments.

It is a great natural emollient and can help with dry skin, especially in the winter time. It can be added to other oils like jojoba oil, almond oil, or even to your favorite lip balm to make it softer and more moisturizing. Cocoa butter is also a good source of antioxidants which can help fight signs of aging such as wrinkles.

You can find cocoa butter at many health food and specialty grocery stores as well as online. Look for pure, organic cocoa butter that is labeled as “food grade” and avoid products that are not safe to eat. You can also purchase it at many drug stores and vitamin shops as long as you read the labels carefully.

Our raw cocoa butter is organically grown, unrefined and comes in a 16 oz jar. It is free from chemicals and pesticides. It has a chocolate scent and can be used as a lip balm or in skin care products. It is a natural skin emollient and is a great moisturizer for all skin types. It can also be used to smooth and reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

It is also known to heal small burns, scars and cuts. It has a high concentration of antioxidants and fatty acids that deeply penetrate the skin and help to moisturize it. It can be used as a natural replacement for many commercial hydrating lotions, and is less irritating than those made with additives like fragrances and dyes. It can also be used to help soothe irritated or rashy skin and is a good lubricant for massages.

Organic Mango Butter

Mango butter is another highly moisturizing butter that’s similar in texture to Shea and Cocoa butter. This butter is also a wonderful choice to include in body lotions, soaps, and hair products. Mango butter is made from the seeds of a mango fruit. It’s hard at room temperature but melts easily on contact with the skin, making it an excellent substitute or addition to organic shea and Cocoa butters in body butters and creams.

It is a great option for people with sensitive skin because it doesn’t have an overwhelming scent like some other butters on the market. It is usually odorless, but sometimes it can have a slight mango scent. Like all our organic butters, our unrefined mango butter is free of chemicals and is non-comedogenic.

This butter has a high content of oleic and stearic acids, which makes it very easy to spread on the skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it very soothing for irritated skin, and its antioxidants help to protect the skin from sun damage. It is also known to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and increase elasticity in the skin.

Mango Butter also has a high level of Vitamin C, which helps to promote collagen formation and decrease the appearance of scars and blemishes. It’s also a great moisturizer for the scalp and hair, and helps to fight frizz. It’s also a great ingredient for nourishing the skin and helping to soothe eczema, psoriasis, acne, minor cuts, and scars.

Mango butter is a deliciously soft and smooth butter that can be used as a substitute for Cocoa or Shea butter in any recipe. It can also be used as a stand-alone moisturizer for the skin or hair. The light, refreshing fragrance of this natural butter makes it a popular choice for aromatherapy recipes as well.

Organic Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a favorite ingredient in many recipes and beauty products. Ours is organic, expeller-pressed and unrefined, delivering a light texture with a tropical aroma. Its high smoke point and light flavor make it a versatile cooking oil, but it is also excellent as a natural moisturizer and skin care product.

We use it in combination with shea butter and jojoba oil to create this creamy, all-natural body butter recipe. It’s easy to make and works great as a daily moisturizer for the whole body. The fatty acids in coconut oil help to promote healthy and hydrated skin. It’s an excellent choice for dry skin, including elbows and knees. You can even use it as a hair mask to prevent frizz and flyaways!

This easy, homemade body butter recipe is also an amazing DIY gift for anyone on your holiday list. Wrap it up in a cute jar with a ribbon and you have a fun, homemade gift they’ll love to use!

As with all fats, coconut oil has a high saturated fat content. However, unlike other saturated fats such as animal fats, the fatty acids in coconut oil are mostly medium chain triglycerides (MCTs). MCTs are metabolized more quickly than other fats and can provide instant energy for the body. They’re also thought to improve lipid profile and reduce insulin resistance.

In addition to boosting skin health and helping with weight loss, the MCTs in coconut oil may contribute to improved mental alertness. It’s also believed to protect the body from infection by blocking harmful microbes and enhancing wound healing.

Because it’s a solid at room temperature, coconut oil is often used as an oil for hair and skin. It has antibacterial and antifungal properties, and it’s a powerful moisturizer that’s absorbed quickly by the skin. It’s often used as a base ingredient in many homemade beauty products and as an alternative to other oils for frying food due to its high heat tolerance.

When using this body butter, remember that a little goes a long way. You don’t want to slather on too much or you might end up with greasy skin.

Carpet Cleaning

The Basics Of Carpet Cleaning

Elle Snow

Keeping the carpet clean can help preserve its color, keep it soft, and extend its life. Manufacturers also often require regular cleaning to honor warranties.

Vacuuming and spot treating are essential, but for a deep, thorough cleaning that will restore your carpet’s appearance, there are several cleaning methods. Learn the basics of Carpet Cleaning Lehi to get the job done right.

carpet cleaning

Preparation

When it comes to getting the most out of your carpet cleaning appointment, proper preparation is essential. This is true whether you are hiring a professional or doing it yourself. If you want to get the best results possible, you should take the following steps:

Vacuum the carpeting thoroughly. Use a vacuum with strong suction and set it to the proper height for your type of carpet. This will remove large dirt particles and help prevent re-staining as the carpet dries. You may also wish to consider vacuuming the area again once the cleaning is done to remove any remaining soil and particles.

Remove furniture from the area to be cleaned. This is an important step, especially if you are using a pre-cleaning solution. Be sure to move any breakables and be careful not to scratch or damage any surfaces. If you cannot move the furniture, be sure to cover it with protective foil or plastic. This will prevent scuff marks on the walls and any furniture legs.

Pretest any spot removal agents on an inconspicuous area of the carpet before using them on larger stains. This will help you determine how well the product works and whether or not it is safe to use on your specific carpeting. It is also a good idea to test any stain removal products on the bottom of your furniture to be sure they won’t scratch or mark the wood.

Greasy stains are some of the most difficult to remove from carpeting. If you have a grease-cutting dish soap, sprinkle a small amount of the solution on the stain and blot with a paper towel. This will help break up the oil and allow it to be soaked up by the cleaning solution. If the greasy stain persists, you can try a commercial product that dissolves grease or apply an acetic acid such as diluted white vinegar.

Be sure to protect any areas that aren’t going to be cleaned, such as baseboards, with painter’s tape. This will prevent the cleaning solution or hoses from leaving ugly black scuff marks. It is also a good idea to cover any electrical outlets that may be in the area with aluminum foil or plastic sheeting.

Cleaning

The carpet is cozy, but it’s also sort of like Velcro, grabbing onto hairs, dander, dust bunnies, and other cities. Frequent vacuuming, spot cleaning, and deep cleaning help prevent this buildup, keeping your rugs looking and smelling fresh.

Vacuuming is the best way to remove surface-level dirt, dander, and other particles. A strong, efficient vacuum cleaner can get the job done quickly and efficiently. Whether you use a traditional vacuum cleaner or one of the newer, bagless vacuums, make sure to move your furniture before you start. Using the right settings on your machine is crucial, too. You’ll want to use a hard-floor setting for high-traffic areas and a gentler setting for delicate area rugs.

If you have pets or children, a stain-removal tool in your arsenal is essential. You’ll want to have a nontoxic cleaner on hand for one-off spills and stains, as well as a deodorizer to keep your carpets smelling good. Before you apply any cleaner, test it in an unobtrusive spot to make sure it doesn’t discolor your rug’s fibers. Also, always blot rather than rub; too much pressure can push stains deeper into the fibers.

Another great nontoxic cleaner is baking soda. Sprinkle the carpet with the powder, let it sit for 15 minutes, then vacuum to remove it and odors. You can also make a homemade carpet shampoo from water and soap flakes. Mix equal parts of each, and then add warm water to create a bubbling solution that can pull out stains and odors from your carpets. This is also a great time to add some essential oils for a more pleasant scent scene in your home.

A few times a year, you should do what’s called deep cleaning or hot water extraction. This process uses hot water and a special detergent to remove more deeply embedded dirt, dander, and other contaminants. This is a more intensive cleaning method than simply running your vacuum, but it’s also the only way to give your rugs that truly clean and brand-new look. A professional service can do the job more thoroughly and in less time than you can, so it’s worth investing in a service once or twice a year.

Extraction

Whether it’s picking up mud and grass stains after the kids come in from outside, or traipsing through grit, salt, and sand tracked into the house on shoes, the wear and tear of everyday living causes dirty carpets. Carpet extractors can take cleaning to a whole new level, removing soil that simple vacuuming can’t.

A carpet extractor uses a mild solution of water and cleaning chemicals to penetrate deep into the carpet pile and agitate the dirt and grime. This loosened dirt then mixes with the cleaning solution and is extracted into the extractor’s tank for later disposal.

The key to effective extraction is to allow enough time for the chemical to work. This is especially important with greasy or sticky soils that need to be thoroughly rinsed. If all of the soapy residues are not rinsed away, the carpet will remain sticky or stiff and will recoil quickly after cleaning.

Most professional carpet cleaners use truck-mounted hot water extraction, which is a powerful machine that can remove more of the soapy residue than an ordinary portable machine. If you are doing your cleaning, be sure to rent a self-contained, portable, or small extractor (we have many styles in stock). If you’re dealing with stubborn stains and want the best results possible, consider purchasing a power scrub brush for pretreating floor mats or heavily soiled areas of carpet. This brush agitates stains, breaking up the stain and making it easier for the cleaning solution to penetrate the stain’s depth.

If you’re dealing with an odor problem, a deodorizing spray can help. A good spray will kill odor-causing bacteria and also work as a solvent to break up odor-causing molecules. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the application and use of any odor-control products. To keep odors from coming back, apply a soil retardant to the newly cleaned carpet. This will slow the rate at which the carpet recoils and make future cleanings much easier. Be sure to use a quality product that is compatible with the type of carpet you have.

Drying

Carpets require regular cleaning to remove dust and soil particles that tend to cling to fibers. When they become heavily soiled, it may be necessary to perform an in-depth cleaning with hot water extraction or other methods. This can help restore and maintain the beauty of your home’s carpeting, as well as reduce allergens and improve indoor air quality.

However, proper drying is important after cleaning to ensure that no remaining moisture can damage the carpet or promote the growth of mildew or mold. This requires that you have the right tools and methods at your disposal to speed up the drying process.

Before starting the drying process, vacuum the carpet thoroughly to get rid of as much dirt and debris as possible. Use the hose and attachments on your vacuum to extract as much water as you can from deep within the fibers. Then, place several layers of white paper towels over the wet area and weigh them down with something heavy (like a phone book). This will absorb the most amount of moisture from the carpet before it can evaporate. Continue this process as the carpet continues to dry.

Alternatively, you can use fans to create airflow over the wet area and speed up the drying process. In addition, you can open windows and doors to increase ventilation throughout the house and allow fresh, warm air to replace the damp, cool air that is usually present in a room after a thorough carpet cleaning.

Using these techniques, you can significantly reduce the time it takes for your carpet to completely dry after cleaning. However, in the event of major water damage, it is generally best to contact a professional carpet restoration company that is CRI-certified. This will ensure that you are working with a company that uses only the best equipment and cleaning solutions, which can help protect your carpet warranty. They will also have the skills and experience needed to handle even the most severe of water damage incidents. This will save you both time and money, as well as minimize the risk of mold and mildew buildup.

Roofing

What You Need to Know About Roof Repair

Elle Snow

Shingles and tiles are designed to withstand a lot of wear and tear, but they’re not infallible. Strong winds, heavy rains, and falling debris can damage shingles and cause leaks.

Roof Repair

Look for damp stains and peeling paint. If you notice a musty or damp smell, mold and mildew are slowly killing the structure and insulation. For professional help, contact Red Stick Roofing Of Louisiana.

The cost of roof repair can vary depending on the type of damage and how extensive the repairs are. For example, a hole in the roof may only need a few hundred dollars to fix, but replacing the entire roof structure could cost thousands of dollars. A professional roofing company is the best option for determining the exact costs of roof repair.

The type of roofing material also influences the price of a repair. Asphalt shingles are on the lower end of the cost spectrum, while metal and slate tiles are at the high end. Also, the pitch of a roof affects the cost. Flat roofs are usually easier to work on than sloped ones, but they still require extra materials and labor.

Homeowners insurance often covers the cost of some types of roof repairs, especially if the damages are caused by a covered peril like fallen trees or severe storms. However, homeowners should check their specific insurance policies to find out exactly what is and isn’t covered.

A common problem that requires roof repair is a leaky or sagging roof. Leaking roofs are very costly to repair, and the consequences can be serious if not fixed quickly. Leaking roofs usually need new shingles, underlayment, insulation, and a new seal. A sagging roof is harder to fix, and it might require structural support like rafter ties or a full replacement.

Another issue that sometimes occurs is a damaged flashing, which is the metal that’s installed around chimneys or against other parts of the house. It helps funnel water into gutters, but it can fail and cause leaks. Flashing problems are usually due to old age or cheap materials, but conducting regular roof inspections can help identify issues before they become severe.

Other common repairs include fixing a clogged gutter or downspout, sealing cracks, and painting the fascia. Homeowners can do these fixes themselves if they have the proper tools and are comfortable working on a roof. A good set of roofing tools includes a pry bar, shears, and a nail puller. The TCJA doubled the Section 179 tax deduction for qualified improvements, which can include roof repair and maintenance.

Time

The amount of time it takes to complete a roof repair can depend on several factors, including the type of damage and the size of the home. In general, repairs are completed more quickly than replacements due to their lower cost and scope.

The first step in repairing a roof is to locate the damaged areas. This can be done by visually inspecting shingles, gutters, roof edges, and flashing around chimneys and dormers. It’s also a good idea to check for signs of leaking. If you notice water spots or a puddle on the ceiling, it’s likely that there is a leak in the roof.

If you spot a leak, it’s important to take action right away. Left unattended, a small leak can lead to significant problems. For example, it can cause water and humidity to seep into the house, which can result in mold and mildew. This can then affect the health and comfort of the family, causing cold and allergy-like symptoms.

Once the source of the leak has been identified, it’s time to repair the damage. This can include patching holes or replacing shingles. Depending on the situation, it may be necessary to replace the entire roof.

A repair can be tax deductible if it meets the “ordinary and necessary” requirement of Section 179 of the IRS code. In other words, the expense must be necessary to maintain or improve a property’s usefulness and livability. A roofing repair qualifies under this section because it addresses a problem that has the potential to negatively impact the homeowner’s ability to use and enjoy the property.

Before starting the repair, you should make sure that you have all the necessary tools. These include a pry bar, a nail puller, and shears. In addition, it is recommended that you wear rubber gloves and safety glasses. The last thing you want is to cut yourself while working on the roof.

It’s also a good idea to have your pets stay at a friend’s house or a pet boarding service during the roof repair. The hammering and strangers can disturb them, and they might even be injured by a stray nail or piece of debris.

Materials

When repairing a roof, it’s essential to use quality materials that are designed for the type of roof and climate conditions in your area. These materials will ensure that the repair job is done properly and will protect your home from further damage. Additionally, it’s important to work with a qualified contractor when selecting materials for your roof repair project.

There are many different types of roofing materials available on the market today, including metal, shingles, rubber/synthetic rubber, tile, and wood. The most common roofing material is shingles, which offer a natural aesthetic and excellent durability. However, if not properly maintained, a shingle roof can become damaged and leaky. Therefore, it’s important to perform regular inspections and repairs on your shingle roof to keep it in good condition.

Having the right tools on hand is also essential when conducting a roof repair. A hammer and nail gun are useful for securing shingles and tiles in place. Nails should be galvanised to ensure they are water resistant. In addition, a trowel and bucket of roof cement are necessary for preparing the surface and applying waterproof sealants to leaky spots. A caulking gun with a spreader is also recommended, as it will make the process of sealing leaky areas around vents, chimneys, and skylights much easier.

Another important tool to have on hand is a ladder and safety harness. A ladder will help you reach hard-to-reach areas of the roof, while a safety harness will help to prevent falls. If you’re not comfortable working at heights, it’s best to hire a professional to perform the repair.

Flashing and drip edges are an important component of any roof. These materials seal gaps between the roof decking and the shingle roof, preventing rain from entering the home. These materials are typically made from aluminium or galvanised steel and should be matched to the thickness of your existing roof. If you find any holes in your flashing or drip edge, it’s important to have these repaired as soon as possible.

If your roof is suffering from soft spots or rot, it may be time to replace the decking. Using plywood or oriented strand board is a good choice for replacing the old and rotting wood. You can also install a new deck of shingles to give the roof a fresh look.

Warranty

A warranty on a roof repair project can be a great way for homeowners to feel confident in their roofing investment. However, it is important to understand the different types of warranties and what they cover. For example, some manufacturers’ warranties have limitations and exclusions that can affect the coverage. It’s also essential to choose a reputable contractor and maintain proper care of the roof.

There are two primary types of roof warranties: workmanship and manufacturer’s material warranties. The former covers the installation process and ensures that the contractor will correct any errors in the work performed. The latter typically covers the materials used in the roof, such as shingles or metal. Many homeowners assume that these two are combined into a single roof warranty, but they are actually separate and each has its own benefits and limitations.

The standard manufacturer’s warranty typically lasts for 20-50 years, covering the shingle or metal and underlayment. However, some companies offer extended warranties for a higher cost. These are typically offered to contractors that meet certain requirements and install an entire roof system using the manufacturer’s products. The extended manufacturers’ warranty can cover both the labor and materials costs of a roof replacement.

Other kinds of warranties are available for roof repairs, including a labor-only warranty and an extended material-only warranty. These are often offered by home warranty providers, and they can be a good option for homeowners who want extra peace of mind. Most of these plans have a service fee, which can range from $75 to $125 per inspection and repair visit. The service fee is often based on the type of roof, and the maximum repair cost is usually limited to $1,000.

It is also essential to understand that most warranties do not cover the costs of interior damages caused by roof leaks or defects. This is because most homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover such expenses. Also, many homeowner’s policies exclude natural disasters such as high winds (though sometimes extra wind coverage can be added), hail, tornadoes, fires, and floods. If you are unsure what your policy covers, contact your insurance provider and ask the roofing contractor for details.