Spring Sprinkler Checklist
Everything is beginning to thaw as Boise and the Treasure Valley slip into springtime. Now is the time to start prepping the sprinkler system for another season of lawn and garden watering once the rain stops and the temperature rises. Here are some prepping tips that could save water, money, and prevent mishaps this summer:
1. The Controls
Nothing will run right if there’s something wrong with the controls and programs. Dust away any cobwebs or debris, check the date and time, and set the settings. Make sure the backup battery is fresh just in case.
2. Clear Sprinklers
Clear away all debris that might obstruct the water flow once the sprinklers turn on. Anything blocking their flow could result in a poorly watered lawn or garden. Some spots may become a puddle while others go dry.
3. Replace Old Sprinklers
Check the sprinkler heads for wear and tear beyond the normal amount. If there are cracked or chipped heads, nozzles, valves, or pipes they should be replaced before the sprinkler is turned on.
4. Inspect the Valves
Do a check for leaky valves so that water isn’t wasted when watering the lawn. Also, return each manual drain valve to the closed position.
5. Pressure Check
Water pressure is important in a sprinkler system. Too much pressure can result in broken valves, cracked pipes, leaks, and more. A water pressure gauge is a good investment for someone with a sprinkler system so they know they actual pressure of the system.
All Star Plumbing and Restoration can deal with any broken water pipes or water damage the sprinkler system might cause. For those who don’t have a sprinkler system, having us install a hosebib is an easy way to get water to the lawn or garden.
Brighten the Kitchen for Spring
During this time of year everything seems brighter, so why not have your kitchen mimic that? During get-togethers the kitchen is generally a congregating area, so make it fresh and vibrant for spring with these ideas:
1. New Table Décor
Brighten up the tablescape with fresh spring colors like green, yellow, blue, and more. Put out new placemats, napkins, and tablecloths that mimic the colors and feeling of spring. It’s an easy way to add a festive feeling to a dinner.
2. Fresh Flowers
Flowers are starting to bloom, so why not bring them inside. They not only bring color, but freshness and a fragrant scent as well. Use them as a centerpiece on the table or on the island.
3. Grow Some Herbs
Not enough room for an herb garden outside? Create one inside. There will be fresh herbs to use in cooking that also bring in that signature spring green color. They also give off a wonderful scent.
4. Artwork
Consider changing out the regular artwork on the walls for some spring-inspired pictures of flowers, birds, or anything else associated with the season.
5. Paint
Painting might seem drastic, but if the kitchen is in need of an update, go for it! Light, springtime colors on the wall can make the room feel more open and friendly.
If the kitchen is in need of a more intense update, All Star Plumbing and Restoration can help. From plumbing work to installing new faucets and fixtures, we can turn the kitchen into a fresh, new space just in time for spring.
Cleaning Up Trash After Water Damage
Water damage leaves a huge mess in its wake. It not only affects the structure of the building, such as the walls, floors, or ceiling, but also personal objects. Cleaning up after water damage can be a laborious task, and All Star Plumbing and Restoration is here to help.
If contacted early, the restoration team at All Star might be able to salvage the flooring, furniture, and appliances by drying out the damage with their state-of-the-art equipment. They will be able to determine what has too much moisture to be salvaged.
Getting the drying out process started as soon as possible is imperative to saving items such as carpeting. Carpeting can lose 50 percent of its integrity if it sits in saturation for 24 hours. Wood floors are even more susceptible to water damage than carpeting.
When items become unsalvageable, All Star Plumbing and Restoration can help with that as well. We offer trash removal services in situations like water damage and wind damage. They can remove the damaged items and flooring, and haul it away.
Having someone to help haul away big items can be a huge help to those struggling with water damage in their home. All Star Plumbing and Restoration wants to make the water damage process as easy as possible on the homeowner, and takes many steps to accomplish that.
For those suffering from water or wind damage and in need of help getting rid of large items, call All Star Plumbing and Restoration.
DIY Drip Tray for Wet Shoes
With all of the rain hitting Boise and the Treasure Valley, it’s a little wet and muddy in places. Instead of getting it tracked all over the house or having to take shoes off outside, build a drip station for shoes.
Materials:
- Large tray, can be plastic, rubber, metal, etc.
- River rocks
Simply fill the tray with river rocks and place inside the front door. Muddy, wet shoes can be placed on the rocks, where the dirt and water drips down. This way shoes don’t drip all over the floor, potentially causing water damage over long periods of time.
Many people choose to make their own tray with wood or metal and a sheet of Plexiglas, but a pre-made tray works just as well. Your children can keep slushing through those puddles without ruining the flooring!
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