close

April 2023

Home

Different Types Of Insulation That Are Ideal For Your Loft

When it comes to home insulation, one area that homeowners often overlook is the attic. However, proper insulation in your attic is essential for maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient home. Several types of insulation materials are available on the market that you can use in your attic. Below are some insulation options for your loft that can help ensure your family home is warm and comfortable.

Fibreglass Insulation

Fibreglass insulation is one of the most common types of loft insulation used. It is made of tiny glass fibres that are woven together to create a mat. This mat is then installed in the attic to provide insulation. Fibreglass insulation is available in batts and rolls that you can easily install in the attic. It is also available in a blown-in form, which you spray onto the attic floor with a machine. One of the benefits of fibreglass insulation is that it is affordable and readily available. It is also resistant to fire and does not absorb moisture. However, fibreglass insulation can irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs, so wearing protective clothing and a mask during installation is important.

Cellulose Insulation

Cellulose insulation is made of recycled materials such as newspapers and cardboard and is treated with a fire retardant to make it resistant to fire. Cellulose insulation is installed in the loft by blowing it onto the attic floor with a machine. One of the benefits of cellulose insulation is that it is environmentally friendly and made from 100% recycled materials. It also effectively reduces air leaks and is resistant to pests such as rodents and insects. However, cellulose insulation can be messy during installation and can settle over time, reducing its effectiveness.

Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation is a type of insulation that is applied by spraying a liquid foam onto the attic floor. The foam expands and fills all the gaps and spaces in the attic. Spray foam insulation is more expensive than other types of insulation, but it is also more effective in reducing air leaks and providing a barrier against moisture and pests. One of the benefits of spray foam insulation is that it is very effective in reducing energy costs and improving indoor air quality. It can also last for a long time without needing to be replaced. However, a professional should only install spray foam insulation, as it requires specialised equipment and knowledge.

Radiant Barrier Insulation

Radiant barrier insulation is a type of insulation that is installed in the attic to reflect heat away from your home. It is typically made of a thin layer of aluminium foil or a similar reflective material. Radiant barrier insulation is installed by stapling it to the underside of the attic roof. One of the benefits of radiant barrier insulation is that it effectively reduces energy costs by reflecting heat away. It is also easy to install and can be combined with other types of insulation for added effectiveness. However, radiant barrier insulation is ineffective in reducing air leaks and does not provide a barrier against moisture or pests.

read more
Home

How To Unblock A Badly Blocked Toilet: Tips And Tricks

Having a blocked toilet can be an embarrassing and frustrating experience, but it is not an uncommon problem. While some minor blockages can be cleared with a plunger or hot water, more serious ones require more effort. This article will discuss how to unblock a badly blocked toilet and provide tips and tricks to prevent it from happening again.

Using A Plunger

A plunger is one of the most common and effective ways to unblock a toilet. Here are the steps to follow:

  • Ensure you have a good-quality plunger with a flange and rubber flap that fits into the toilet bowl.
  • Add some water to the bowl if it is low.
  • Place the plunger over the hole at the bottom of the toilet bowl and push it down firmly.
  • Pull the plunger up quickly to create a suction.
  • Do this repeatedly until the impediment is gone.

Using A Toilet Auger

If the plunger doesn’t work, you may need to use a toilet auger, a tool designed to clear blockages in the toilet drain. Here are the steps to follow:

  • Insert the end of the drill into the toilet bowl and turn the handle clockwise.
  • Till the drill encounters the obstruction, keep rotating the handle.
  • To remove the obstruction, pull and push the drill.
  • Turn the handle and push and pull the drill until the blockage is cleared.

Using Hot Water And Dish Soap

Use hot water and dish soap to dissolve the obstruction if you don’t have a toilet auger or plunger. The steps are as follows:

  • Fill the toilet bowl with hot water.
  • To the basin, add a few drops of dish soap.
  • Allow the soap and hot water to work on the obstruction for a few minutes.
  • Flush the toilet to see if the clog has been eliminated.

 What Is A Drain Liner?

If you have a badly blocked toilet that cannot be cleared with any of the above methods, you may need to consider using a drain liner. A drain liner is a flexible tube inserted into the drain and then inflated to create a new, smooth pipe inside the existing pipe. The following are some advantages of using a drain liner:

  • Cost-Effective: Installing a drain liner is often less expensive than digging up and replacing a damaged pipe.

 

  • Minimal Disruption: The installation process of a drain liner is quick and doesn’t require excavation, which means minimal disruption to your property.

 

  • Durable: Drain liners are made from high-quality materials designed to last many years.

 

  • Prevents Future Blockages: The smooth surface of the drain liner prevents waste and debris from sticking to the pipe’s inside, reducing the likelihood of future blockages.

In conclusion, there are several ways to unclog a blocked toilet, which may be a frustrating and unpleasant experience. If you have tried all the solutions above and the toilet is still clogged, you may consider installing a drain liner to stop further clogs. To prevent future blockages, keep in mind to take preventive actions, such as refraining from flushing non-degradable materials and routinely cleaning the toilet.

read more
1 2
Page 2 of 2