Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.
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Vinyl vs. Laminate Flooring: What’s the Difference
When it comes to choosing new floors for your home, vinyl and laminate are two popular options to consider. Both offer the look of wood or tile at a more affordable price point than natural materials. However, there are some key differences between vinyl and laminate flooring that impact appearance, durability, installation, and maintenance. Knowing…
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How to Pressure Wash Your House Before Painting
Pressure washing your house before painting is one of the most important steps you can take to help ensure the new paint adheres properly and lasts longer. Thoroughly cleaning the exterior surfaces removes dirt, chalking paint, mildew and other contaminants that can cause the new paint to fail prematurely. Following proper pressure washing techniques prior…
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Pressure Vacuum Breaker Basics
A pressure vacuum breaker is an important device used in plumbing and sprinkler systems to prevent backflow contamination. We will provide an in-depth overview of what a pressure vacuum breaker is, how it works, its components, installation, and maintenance. What is a Pressure Vacuum Breaker? A pressure vacuum breaker (PVB) is a type of backflow…
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House Painting Manually vs. Spray Painting
House painting is a common home improvement project that can significantly enhance the look and feel of your home’s interior and exterior. There are two primary methods for applying paint – manually with brushes and rollers, or using a paint sprayer. Both have their advantages and disadvantages to consider when deciding which is the best…
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Carpet vs. Hardwood Flooring Comparison Guide
Deciding between carpet and hardwood flooring for your home can be a difficult choice. Both flooring types have advantages and disadvantages that must be weighed carefully. This comprehensive guide compares carpets and hardwoods across crucial factors like cost, durability, comfort, maintenance, and aesthetics. Read on for an in-depth analysis of how carpets and hardwood stack…
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How to Find Lawn Sprinkler Irrigation Valves
Locating the valves that control your lawn sprinkler irrigation system is an important part of maintaining and troubleshooting the system. The valves turn water flow on and off to different zones of the irrigation system and are usually installed out of sight underground. With some detective work, you can find the valves and gain access…
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10 Common Exterior Paint Problems and How to Fix Them
Maintaining the exterior paint on your home is important for aesthetics and protection. However, paint can succumb to weathering, leading to peeling, cracking, chalking, and other issues. Knowing how to identify and fix common exterior paint problems will save you time and money on repairs. This article covers the ten most widespread exterior paint issues…
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How to Level a Floor
Leveling an uneven floor is an important process when installing new flooring or repairing an existing floor. Taking the time to properly level your floor ensures your flooring lays flat and looks its best. With some basic tools and the right techniques, leveling a floor is an achievable DIY project for most homeowners. Materials and…
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OSB vs. Plywood: Best Subfloor Material Compared
Selecting the right subfloor material is an important decision when building or renovating your home. The two most common options for subfloors are oriented strand board (OSB) and plywood. Both have their advantages and disadvantages when used as a subfloor, so it’s important to understand the key differences between them. Cost Comparison Between OSB and…
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How Much Firewood Is in a Cord and How to Store It
Firewood is a popular fuel source for wood stoves and fireplaces. Knowing how much firewood is in a cord and how to properly store it is important for getting the most value from your wood supply. This comprehensive guide provides key information on firewood measurements, storage methods, and tips for keeping your firewood dry and…
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