Pest prevention New Year's resolutions for Keller homeowners

From healthy lifestyle changes to productive habits, there are plenty of New Year’s resolutions that can start Keller residents' 2019 off on the right foot. Homeowners can extend those resolutions to include keeping the house in tiptop shape — and keeping out unwanted visitors. A few New Year’s resolution recommendations that can help make your 2019 pest-free.

Inspect your home

As you start the new year, it’s a good time to check if your home is fully sealed from more than just the elements. Even an opening as small as a dime is big enough for a mouse to squeeze through. Take a walk around your entire house exterior, looking for any cracks or holes, and be sure to seal any gaps you find.

Eliminate standing water

While a water feature makes for a perfect landscaping piece, be sure to be diligent about changing out water and reducing other sources of standing water. Refresh the water in bird baths, fountains and other water features at least once a week, and dump out any other unnecessary water on your property.

Be mindful when away from home

Unfortunately, places like hotel rooms can be bed bug hot spots, and these pests can be tough to guard against and easy to bring home. Be sure to do a thorough sweep of hotel rooms — along mattresses, furniture and headboards — checking for signs of an infestation such as blood spots or shed skins.

Keep firewood at a safe distance

Before you light those cozy winter fires, be sure you’re storing firewood piles away from your Keller home. The wood could be an inviting home for termites and can provide an easy bridge to your home’s foundation if you don’t properly guard against these pests.

Call in the professionals

If you’re dealing with a pest problem too big to handle alone, know when it’s time to call in the professionals. Trained technicians can help you protect your home from winter pests, leaving you free to focus your sights on other goals.

Whether it's selling your home or finding a new one, we have designed this site so that you can quickly and easily locate the information you are looking for. The Grove Team's client-centered approach results in the best possible outcome for you. Please contact us now to begin the process of achieving your dreams in home ownership. Call 817-337-0000 for Keller Home's for sale in Keller ISD.

Home office efficiency tips for Keller homeowners

So, you’ve been running your business from your Keller home for some time now, and with the busy holiday season upon us, you find yourself overwhelmed, stressed and your office is a mess. When running a business, there are so many things you need to think about to maximize efficiency, from having a clean setup to ensuring that you are well equipped with the supplies you need to get things done.

Arrange Your Space

First things first. To help increase productivity and get things started, it’s time to tidy up your space. Start by going through any old files you may have and determining whether you really need them, then get rid of things that no longer are relevant. Next, start organizing and getting your layout set. Arrange your space in a way that is functional and will ensure that you are able to access the things you need easily, like your phone and computer.

Upgrade Your Equipment

Once your office is cleaned up, it’s time to take a step back and ensure that your office is equipped with the latest equipment and stocked up on supplies. Your technology and hardware are key components to running things efficiently, so making sure your computer and peripherals are up to date will be crucial. A printer is a critical component in your home office setup and it’s important that it is compatible with the latest technology and that there is enough ink to fulfill your business needs.

Increase Efficiency

When it comes to smoothly running your business, there are many things you need to help maximize productivity, and replenishing office supplies should not be a worry. As it is, the holidays are a stressful time, and buying office supplies is an added stress you don’t need on your list. Say you need to print an important document for a meeting and you’re alerted that you are low on ink, but you are completely out, and you don’t have time to get to the store to replace it. Replacement services can save you the stress.

Value Convenience

Having your items delivered right to your doorstep will help alleviate the time it would take to do this on your own and eliminate the guesswork in knowing when you need to stock up on supplies. In fact, over one-third of Americans think that ink and toner replenishment is a good idea. All you need to do is enroll in the service and you are guaranteed to get your items right when you need them. You don’t even have to know what model your printer is and what kind of cartridge it takes. Services like Amazon Dash, Brother Refresh and Best Buy Easy Replenish allow customers to quickly and easily replace their ink and toner without having to think about it.

Don’t let the busy holiday season bog you down. Get your Keller home office set up right and your supplies and equipment in order so you can get your work done efficiently and enjoy your time with the family.

Whether it's selling your home or finding a new one, we have designed this site so that you can quickly and easily locate the information you are looking for. The Grove Team's client-centered approach results in the best possible outcome for you. Please contact us now to begin the process of achieving your dreams in home ownership. Call 817-337-0000 for Keller Home's for sale in Keller ISD.

Holiday home security tips for Keller homeowners

For many, the holiday season means travel! In fact, many Keller residents travel more than 50 miles away from home during the holiday season. Unfortunately, burglars are also aware of these holiday season travel statistics. While many families look forward to the holidays, it is easy to get carried away with excitement and forget to prepare your home for your time away. There's nothing worse than coming back from a relaxing vacation to a stressful situation at home, so it is best to be prepared and protect your home before you travel.

Home security matters

It may sound simple, but it is important for people to remember to set their home security systems to the appropriate settings before leaving for travel. Investing in a high-quality, easy-to-use security system grants the ultimate peace of mind for travelers. If you forget to arm your system before you leave, don't panic! Some home security systems let you arm, or disarm, your system by remotely accessing it via any smartphone tablet or computer. You can also set up alerts to remind you if your system hasn't been armed.

You could also invest in a smart doorbell that automatically sends a text or email to you each time the bell is triggered. Take a look at your security cameras to make sure everything is OK, or have a trusted neighbor stop by. Smart doorbells can also trigger entryway lighting to give the illusion that someone is home.

Remote locks are also useful if you are planning on going away for the holidays, but still need to allow certain visitors into your home while you're gone. You'll be able to lock and unlock your doors remotely and be alerted every time the door is unlocked. This means if you happen to forget your house keys you'll be able to let yourself in when you return from vacation. If you're leaving your teens or young adult children behind this holiday season, you can get alerts for when they leave or come home. You can even set up an emergency automation that unlocks your doors if a fire is detected.

If you're still likely to worry with a home security system, smart doorbell and remote lock, then consider video surveillance. You'll be able see live video of your home from your smartphone, tablet or computer and sync your cameras to motion detectors so you can receive video clips of movement as soon as the sensors are triggered.

Don't let your home look abandoned

If your Keller home looks like it has been abandoned (temporarily), that is often a green light for a passing burglar.

It's one thing to arm your home security systems before you leave, but it's another step entirely to make sure your home looks lived in when you're gone. However, there are a few ways you can create this illusion:

* Ask a neighbor, friend or family member to help collect mail and packages, shovel snow and move cars. Trick burglars into thinking you are there.

* Use a smart lighting system that lets you program lights to come on at specific times each day. This is an easy way to make it look like you're home.

Whether it's selling your home or finding a new one, we have designed this site so that you can quickly and easily locate the information you are looking for. The Grove Team's client-centered approach results in the best possible outcome for you. Please contact us now to begin the process of achieving your dreams in home ownership. Call 817-337-0000 for Keller Home's for sale in Keller ISD.

5 questions for Keller homeowners considering a new deck

When planning a deck project, choosing the right material is key to the enjoyment and value you'll get from your outdoor living space. Today, there are more choices in decking materials than ever before, including high-performance composites, which are increasingly replacing wood in backyards throughout Keller.

As you weigh your options, here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about composite decking:

What are the key benefits of composite decking?

Unlike wood, high-performance composite decking resists fading, scratching and mold - and won't rot, warp, crack or splinter. Wood decking does not age gracefully, even with regular maintenance - including washing, staining and sealing that can take several days and a considerable number of materials and tools. Composites require minimal upkeep. You never need to worry about painful splinters or the laborious sanding, staining or painting - just an occasional soap-and-water cleaning will do the trick.

Does composite decking look natural?

The aesthetics of composite decking have evolved considerably over the years. Today's offerings feature high-definition wood-grain patterns that are nearly indistinguishable from real wood textures. Additionally, composite decking comes in a wider variety of color options to complement the exterior of any home. Ranging from rich browns and warm umbers to spicy reds and pristine grays, composites are more natural than ever before and boast a vibrancy that remains unchanged without having to stain and re-stain year after year.

How do composite costs compare with wood?

Initially, composite decking costs more, board for board, than pressure-treated lumber. But rather than deteriorating over time, composite decking delivers more long-term value due to its minimal maintenance requirements. When you consider the cumulative costs of power washing, sanding, staining and painting a wood deck every season, composite decking proves a much better value over time. According to HomeAdvisor.com, maintenance for a wood deck costs an average of $540 to $1,050 per year compared with just $15 to $20 for a composite deck.

Are composite materials environmentally friendly?

Wood might be a natural material, but the chemical coatings used to protect the wood from rot and mold are not. Composite decking, on the other hand, uses few chemicals in its manufacturing and the upkeep is simple - just soap and water. Additionally, Trex decking is made from 95 percent recycled materials, including plastic film recycled from a variety of items, such as grocery bags and newspaper sleeves. The company repurposes more than 400 million pounds of plastic and wood particles annually that would otherwise end up in landfills.

What's the difference between "capped" and "uncapped" composites?

Early generations of composite decking were "uncapped," leaving them vulnerable to staining, fading, mold and mildew. The leading composite products available today are "capped" with a protective outer layer that is bonded to the core during the manufacturing process. This "shell" contains UV inhibitors and other ingredients to ensure the deck boards retain their aesthetics and durability. In addition to resisting fading, staining and mold, they won't rot crack or splinter like wood and require minimal maintenance. For Keller homeowners, the choices are plentiful.

Whether it's selling your home or finding a new one, we have designed this site so that you can quickly and easily locate the information you are looking for. The Grove Team's client-centered approach results in the best possible outcome for you. Please contact us now to begin the process of achieving your dreams in home ownership. Call 817-337-0000 for Keller Home's for sale in Keller ISD.

Kitchen prep tips for Keller homeowners

The holidays are a busy time, filled with joyful gatherings, plenty of good meals and houseguests galore in your Keller home. But the jam-packed celebrations can also provide an opportunity for uninvited pests to find their way indoors. Here are a few tips for protecting your kitchen from insects, so that you can spend your time enjoying the holidays rather than combating pests.

Start with a deep clean

It's easy for things to fall through the cracks - literally. Stray crumbs and particles of sugar or flour can attract insects like ants. Prepare for the holidays by cleaning your kitchen and pantry top to bottom, removing food spillage and stains that could attract pests.

Don't try to salvage contaminated food

If you do find a food item that's been contaminated, simply throw it out. Even if it's just one weevil in your box of rice, for example, it's better to dispose of the contaminated food entirely instead of trying to salvage it. You may think you've removed the "bad part," but you could easily miss tiny insect eggs or larvae. Don't risk an infestation - when in doubt, throw it out!

Store supplies in airtight containers

With all the cooking taking place during the holidays, you'll likely find yourself with a plethora of leftovers and open packages. Flimsy cardboard and paper containers may not act as much of a barrier to pests. Instead, seal those food items in airtight containers.

Inspect new purchases for signs of damage

Despite what you might think, brand-new packages can also harbor uninvited guests, such as moths or beetles. Be sure to examine each new food product for signs that it could already be infested - even the tiniest tear in a package can act as an entryway for pests. If you do notice signs that a product is infested, dispose of the package.

Call in a professional

Even the most attentive Keller homeowner can miss the subtle signs of a pest infestation. If left unchecked, infestations can worsen and give you a real headache during the holiday season. Pros can help determine what kind of pest is trying to invite itself to your classy dinner, and how best to get rid of it.

Whether it's selling your home or finding a new one, we have designed this site so that you can quickly and easily locate the information you are looking for. The Grove Team's client-centered approach results in the best possible outcome for you. Please contact us now to begin the process of achieving your dreams in home ownership. Call 817-337-0000 for Keller Home's for sale in Keller ISD.

5 bathroom DIY projects for Keller homeowners

Dreaming of a bathroom update? Don't wait until you can hire a professional to get the upgraded bathroom you desire. With some simple DIY projects, you'll enhance your Keller home's value and functionality in just a weekend (or less).

Project 1: Shower overhaul

Many people are surprised it doesn't take weeks for a shower update. Convenient all-in-one kits provide a custom look without the extra work. Custom shower kids are ideal for the DIYer, with stylish, textured, patterned walls, sleek glass shower doors, modern shower bases and storage options. Kits includes adhesive, color-matched sealant and pre-measured walls that easily adhere over existing wall materials, making it a time-saving project. Its designs mimic granite, stone or timber, delivering an upscale look at an appealing price.

Project 2: Smart toilets

Replacing a toilet can easily be completed in a day or two, making it a DIY project worth considering. Not only will the bathroom feature an updated focal element, but the right toilet design can reduce the future need to clean. Install a self-cleaning toilet and watch as it freshens the toilet bowl with Lysol cleaner with every flush. The award-winning flushing platform has been independently verified to clean the bowl two times better than conventional toilets. So put away the rubber gloves and cleaning brush as they won't be needed for a while.

Project 3: Modern flooring

Don't forget to look down when considering smart bathroom updates. Replacing the floor is a simple weekend project that stands out. If you have dated vinyl flooring, consider installing modern vinyl options that are far superior to the designs of yesteryear. With planks that closely mimic wood or tile, the new look will impress. Ceramic or marble tiles are popular choices for bathroom flooring as well. For a luxury touch, consider taking a weekend to add in heated flooring elements. You can find kits at your local home improvement store that install under stone floors, so with the turn of a knob you transform chilly floors into toasty tiles.

Project 4: Stylish sinks

A new sink is a smart way to update a bathroom in minimal time. Designs with simplified installation make it an easy DIY task. With a modern look available in various finishes, designs are specifically created to be a time-saver to install. Most come with pre-assembled systems that won't need adjusting now or years down the road, plus the unique integration system for easy hose connections. No need to hire a plumber for a functional and fashionable new sink.

Project 5: Visual elements

To update a bathroom, consider visual real estate and all the extras that create a cohesive aesthetic. The walls typically take up the largest space in a bathroom, which means fresh paint can be a simple weekend project with big impact. Consider choosing a semi-gloss mildew-resistant paint for moist bathroom spaces. Continue the refresh by painting the ceiling a crisp white, which provides a clean look that also reflects light. Finally, analyze hardware and replace dingy or outdated knobs, handles and hooks. This provides a finishing touch that ties the entire space together.

With just one weekend you can transform a dated bathroom. These smart DIY projects increase value and enjoyment for all members of your Keller household.

Whether it's selling your home or finding a new one, we have designed this site so that you can quickly and easily locate the information you are looking for. The Grove Team's client-centered approach results in the best possible outcome for you. Please contact us now to begin the process of achieving your dreams in home ownership. Call 817-337-0000 for Keller Home's for sale in Keller ISD.

12 Christmas safety tips for Keller homeowners

The fun, festive activities during the holiday season make it a favorite time of year for many Keller homeowners. At the risk of sounding like a Grinch, though, all that festivity can lead to unintentional safety hazards. For example, some 30 percent of all home fires and 38 percent of home fire deaths occur over December, January and February, reports the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI). Fortunately, awareness is half the battle. As you enjoy the holidays this year, think about best practices for keeping you and your family safer.

1. Don't let the holidays zap your energy. Not to shock you, but it's crucial to keep your hands dry (and avoid standing in water) when touching decorations, gifts or other gadgets powered by electricity. You should install ground-fault circuit interrupters anywhere inside or outside water and electricity may come in contact.

2. Sleep tight, but electronics-free. Lying down for a long winter's nap? Stash cordless and corded appliances elsewhere to rule out overheating. A hot phone under a sack of feathers could spell disaster.

3. Install tamper-resistant receptacles. These electric outlets feature internal shutters that keep curious children from inserting objects.

4. Enjoy (but monitor) the warmth of the season. Space heaters come in handy for banishing winter chill, but they can overheat, spark, tip over and/or ignite combustibles such as wadded-up giftwrap if not used correctly. Turn them off when you leave the room or go to sleep.

5. Get that holiday glow. Instead of the open-flame candles that inadvertently spark holiday décor each year, consider battery-operated candles. Remember to blow out candles when you leave the room.

6. Best gift for your family is to upgrade to circuit interrupter breakers or outlets. This smart technology temporarily disables circuits when detecting potentially dangerous electric leaks. It's estimated that half of electrical fires that occur every year could be prevented by AFCIs. All upgrades should be completed by a qualified electrician.

7. Avoid getting frazzled. Worn-cord warning: Avoid pinching electric cords between windows, rugs, carpets or furniture, since that can wear them down and possibly cause overheating and ignition.

8. Even outlets experience holiday stress. Multi-outlet power strips and extension cords are handy for decorations, phones, cooking gear and new gift gadgetry, but plugging in too many things can over-tax your home's electrical capacity. Never use an extension cord or power strip for heaters, as this could cause cords to overheat and result in a fire.

9. Decorate wisely. Consider fire hazards before draping that garland over a fireplace mantle, plugging in the frayed cord that lights up your vintage Santa or arranging pine wreaths around your candles. Check decorations for safety listing labels and never connect more than three strings of lights.

10. Give lit decorations a holiday break. Reduce the likelihood of fire by simply shutting everything off when there's no one home (or awake) to enjoy them. Half of home fire deaths occur between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., reports the NFPA.

11. Be busy as an elf about damage control. When decorating, check for loose or bare wires, cracked or damaged sockets, wobbly connections, broken or sharp edges and other hazards. And it may be time to toss that cheesy 1970s version of St. Nick.

12. More Christmas tree, more water. If you put up a real tree, make sure you water it daily. A dried-up pine tree is nothing but kindling. And an unfortunate 260 home fires in the U.S. start with Christmas trees each year, on average.

For tips for Keller homeowners, visit our blog

Whether it's selling your home or finding a new one, we have designed this site so that you can quickly and easily locate the information you are looking for. The Grove Team's client-centered approach results in the best possible outcome for you. Please contact us now to begin the process of achieving your dreams in home ownership. Call 817-337-0000 for Keller Home's for sale in Keller ISD.