Portable vacuums great for cleaning all areas of a house

Some areas of the house are more difficult to clean than others. Countertops, upholstery and bare floors can prove to be a hassle to clean for homeowners – no matter what size their house. While central vacuum systems offer the most power and suction, slimmer portable vacuum cleaners – often called sticks – can be used to great efficiency when it comes to cleaning difficult, hard to reach places in the kitchen, bathrooms or dining area. The Beam Superstore based in Mississauga, Ontario understands the unique challenges of cleaning a … [Read more...]

Garage door openers provide security and convenience

Many people think of automated garage door openers as a convenience that enables them to quickly and efficiently get their vehicle into the garage. In many areas of Canada, automated garage door openers have become part of modern life and as convenient as a washing machine or microwave oven. However, garage door openers also provide homeowners with additional security and convenience. Garage doors that are equipped with an automated opener are much more difficult to open and access. Additionally, many garage doors with automated openers … [Read more...]

Special tool allows homeowners to clean blinds and shutters

Blinds and shutters add a lot to a house, including colour, texture and privacy. Many homeowners use blinds and shutters throughout their house, including the bedroom, bathroom and dining areas. However, despite their many benefits, blinds and shutters can attract dust and can be difficult to clean. A traditional feather duster barely cracks the surface, and vacuum hoses can permanently damage blinds and shutters. There is a cleaning solution for blinds and shutters thanks to new ‘shutter blind tools’ that are easy to use, lightweight and … [Read more...]

Quilted hose socks protect floors and stair railings

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People love their central vacuum system. Powerful and easy to use, central vacuums have won over homeowners throughout Canada and around the world. Many people have upgraded to central vacuum systems and rave about the benefits – particularly when it comes to cleaning a big house, cottage or office building. However, the plastic hoses used with central vacuums have been known to scratch hardwood floors and wood stair railings. This issue, though, is easily resolved by using a quilted hose sock. Soft cloth socks fit over central vacuum … [Read more...]

Advantages of choosing ceramic tile

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There are many advantages of choosing ceramic tile for almost any flooring application: Durability Ceramic or porcelain tile is among the sturdiest flooring materials available. It’s not easy to damage it by dropping objects or spilling liquids on it, so it tends to last a lot longer than other types of flooring. Many of these tiles are also fire and frost resistant, making them safe for both indoor and outdoor applications. Design Versatility There are so many different styles, colours and textures available in ceramic or … [Read more...]

How to save on a glass shower enclosure

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You want the luxurious feeling of walking into a new shower enclosure, but you don’t want to pay the luxurious price tag.  There’s a way to get the custom look for less – if you’re willing to do a little homework. Here are 3 things to consider before constructing your shower structure. 1. Purchase standard size glass Typically, it is cheaper to buy standard size glass than to purchase custom glass sizes. While standard sizes of glass may vary depending on the manufacturer, many retailers will stock the most common sizes for glass … [Read more...]

Make money with your sewing machine

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Do you enjoy designing and making your own clothes?  Have you ever watched Fashion Television and thought, "I could do that!"  If so, why not take it a step further and make some money from your ideas? If high fashion isn't your forte, how about something a little more fun, like costumes for children, adults, and even pets? These days, many people are trying to save money by buying second-hand clothing, but would be willing to pay a bit more to have those clothes altered or repaired.  You could even buy used clothing yourself, mend it, … [Read more...]

Choosing between a central vacuum system and a portable vacuum cleaner

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Unless you live in a mud hut with a dirt floor, you probably need a vacuum cleaner.  Will you choose a portable unit or a central vacuum system? Portable vacuum cleaners -- either canister models or uprights -- are the cheaper option.  You can take them anywhere, to any room of your house, out to your driveway to clean your car, or to your cottage.  They're easy to store, relatively light, and easy to handle. On the other hand, portable vacuum cleaners may be uncomfortably noisy.  And, unless they are well sealed, they may leak dust … [Read more...]

When it’s time to replace your old vacuum cleaner

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Have you ever run your vacuum over and over the same spot trying to pick up that stubborn bit of fluff and remembered a time when your vacuum cleaner would have sucked it up instantly?  If so, it may be time for a new vacuum cleaner ... or not.  Before you head for the store, unplug your machine and try the following simple steps. One of the most common causes of poor vacuum performance is a full bag or cannister.  Bags should be replaced or cannisters emptied when they're no more than half full.  At the same time, clean or replace the … [Read more...]

When it’s time to get a new sewing machine

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For some people, a sewing machine is like a car; so long as it gets them from A to B, they're happy.  As with a car, however, there may come a time when your sewing machine no longer meets your needs, either because your needs have changed or because your machine has simply worn out. A quality sewing machine can last for decades, assuming it receives regular maintenance including proper lubrication and adjustments.  How many people are driving their grandfather's first car?  But you could still be using your grandmother's first sewing … [Read more...]