DIY Roofing Installation: Is It Feasible for Your Home?

As a homeowner, you have the responsibility for taking care of all sorts of home maintenance - no job is too small. However, many homeowners are hesitant about DIY roofing installation or repairs due to the potential complexity and risks involved. While installing a roof yourself may seem like an intimidating task, it can be perfectly feasible with adequate preparation and knowledge – if done properly; there can be significant cost savings on your pocketbook while still ensuring your projects' safety and integrity.

In this guide, we’ll investigate some tips for preparing ahead of time, running through the basics steps that must be taken throughout any DIY roofing project, and taking into account important pitfalls to watch out for in order to make sure your next DIY roofing installation project runs smoothly.

DIY Roofing Installation: The Pros

Before we delve into the specifics of DIY roofing installation, it’s essential to understand its potential advantages. The decision to undertake such a significant home improvement project should be made after careful consideration of these benefits.

Cost-effective

One of the primary advantages of DIY roofing installation is cost-effectiveness. By sourcing your own materials and eliminating labour costs, you can save a significant amount of money.

Flexibility

DIY gives you the flexibility to work on your own schedule. You aren't dependent on contractors' availability and can progress at a pace you're comfortable with.

Customizability

Handling your own roofing installation allows for greater personalization. You can choose the exact materials and design you want, tailoring your roof to fit your specific aesthetic and functional needs.

Skill Building

Installing your own roof can also be a great opportunity to learn and develop new skills. It can be a challenging task, but the knowledge and experience gained can be invaluable for future home improvement projects.

DIY Roofing Installation: The Cons

While DIY roofing offers numerous benefits, it also carries its fair share of potential drawbacks. It’s crucial to take these into account when deciding whether to undertake a DIY roofing project. Let's consider some of the key disadvantages:

Risk of Mistakes

With inexperience comes the elevated risk of errors. A small mistake in roofing could potentially lead to significant problems down the line, including leaks or structural damage. Professional roofers have the knowledge and experience to avoid such pitfalls.

Safety Concerns

Roofing is inherently dangerous work. There is a risk of falls, especially for those not used to working at heights. If safety gear isn't used correctly, serious injuries could occur.

Time-Consuming

What you save in cash, you may pay in time. For those with little experience, the learning curve can be steep. This could mean a roofing job takes much longer than anticipated, causing inconvenience.

Lack of Warranty

Roofing installed by professionals typically comes with a guarantee. This warranty may not apply if you install the roof yourself, potentially leading to higher costs if repairs are needed.

Building Code Violations

A professional roofer is familiar with local building codes and regulations. DIY homeowners might overlook these, leading to potential legal issues or issues when selling the home.

FAQ

How much can I save by doing my own roofing installation?

The cost savings of DIY roofing installation can vary, but it is typical to save anywhere from 30-50% compared to hiring a professional. However, this depends on the materials and size of the project. It can also be quite risky, and if done improperly, the costs can quickly add up.

What tools and equipment do I need for DIY roofing installation?

Some essential tools for a basic roofing project include a ladder, safety gear (such as harnesses and helmets), roofing hammer, measuring tape, chalk line, utility knife, roofing nails, and a nail gun. Depending on the type of roof you are installing, you may also need additional equipment such as a pry bar or circular saw.

How do I know if my DIY roofing installation was done correctly?

It's best to have your roof inspected by a professional after completing a DIY installation. They will be able to identify any potential issues or mistakes that may need to be addressed to ensure the roof is safe and secure.

What types of roofing materials are suitable for DIY installation?

Some common roofing materials that can be installed by homeowners include asphalt shingles, metal roofs, and rubber shingles. It's essential to research and understand the specific requirements and techniques for each type of material before attempting a DIY installation.

Conclusion

DIY roofing installation can be a feasible option for homeowners willing to invest time, effort, and research. It offers the potential for cost savings, customization, and skill-building. However, it's important to carefully consider the potential risks and drawbacks before embarking on such a significant home improvement project. If done correctly, DIY roofing installation can result in a safe and successful roof for your home. 

If you're feeling up to the challenge, prepare beforehand, gather the necessary tools and materials, and confidently embark on your DIY roofing journey! Just remember to always prioritize safety and consult a professional when needed. Get in touch with a roofing expert for guidance and advice on the best roofing solutions for your home.

A collaboration with Mighty Dog Roofing

Marcelle Vitamin C + Peptide Collagen & Glow Moisturizer + Brightening and Smoothing Eye Cream

November is National Healthy Skin Month #NHSM In honour of this, I wanted to share with you the clean beauty brand Marcelle Cosmetics' new Vitamin C and Peptide Line. These products contain some of my absolute favourite skincare ingredients combined into one product! This saves me from purchasing separate products and having extra steps in my routine.

 

Featuring probiotics, vitamin C, peptides, squalene, and shea butter. These products protect your skin’s microbiome against external aggressors like blue light and air pollution as well as boosting youthful moisture for soft, glowing, and healthy skin.

Key ingredients:

Stabilized vitamin C: powerful antioxidant that improves skin radiance and evens skin tone

Peptide: reduces the signs of aging associated with collagen loss

Probiotics: strengthen the skin's microbiome and protect the skin barrier

I'm seriously loving these products! They have a cream-gel-like texture and feel like a drink of water for my skin.  Immediately after applying the Vitamin C and Peptide Collagen + Glow Moisturizer, my rough skin becomes beyond soft and feels firmer.  The lightweight formula is deeply hydrating and the hydration lasts! I normally have to layer multiple products to get the hydration that I'm after, but this one moisturizer does it all, and then some!

The Vitamin C and Peptide Brightening + Smoothing Eye Care Cream is also very lightweight but hydrating. It actually makes a difference in reducing my under-eye puffiness. Often, when I find a very hydrating eye cream, it can actually add to my puffiness. This eye cream softens my lines and keeps my eye area hydrated, and less puffy.

These are definitely new favourites of mine. The ingredients are fabulous but the results really won me over! 

These products are fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and cruelty-free, as always 🐰 

Let me know if you decide to give them a try ☺ 

The Black Friday/ Cyber Monday sale is on now!

Vitamin C Day and Night Cream: https://marcelle.com/en/vitamin-c-lift-day-night-cream-50ml

Vitamin C Eye Cream: Vitamin C-Lift, eye contour 15mL 

PR samples kindly gifted by Marcelle Cosmetics for review consideration. 

10 Things I No Longer Purchase | Money Saving Tips

Today, I wanted to share with you 10 items and/or services that I no longer purchase. Some have been conscious decisions for one reason or another and others were strictly done to save some money. All were fairly simple to give up and collectively, they ended up saving us heaps of cash! So let's have a look at the 10 items that I no longer purchase. 

1. Magazines

I stopped buying magazines and magazine subscriptions over a decade ago. It felt like such a waste, not only financially, but environmentally too. It was a pretty easy habit to break and I rarely miss it.

2. Take Out Coffee/ Tea

Here's another one that I quit over a decade ago. I can make my own coffee and tea just as well, if not better than take-out coffee shops. And, it costs me pennies to make it myself.  The savings on this one was huge in the long run!

3 + 4. Bottled Water + Soda 

This is yet another one that I quit buying many moons ago. Instead of bottled water, I use a refillable bottle and fill it with filtered water. Soda took some willpower to kick the habit, but once you break it, you won't miss it. I replaced it by drinking more water and adding lemon, some fruit, homemade ìced tea, and even those flavoured water enhancers. My absolute favourite is Crystal Light's Strawberry Lemonbabe, but Mio has some good ones too. They are very refreshing and a healthier alternative to soda or diet soda. You'll not only be helping your pocketbook and health, but the environment, too.

5. CD/DVDs 

I honestly don't remember the last time that I purchased a DVD or CD! Everything can be found online these days. This not only saves money but helps reduce clutter.

6. Backup Items (that aren't necessities)

I used to be so guilty of buying backups of products that I tried and loved. After years of doing this, I realized that most of the time the products would either expire by the time that I got to them, or I would have found other new favourites. I still purchase backups of necessities when they are on sale, Items like laundry detergent and similar necessities get a pass, so I will stock up on these when on sale.

7. Manicures and Pedicures

This one is another big money saver! The time and money it costs to go to get a mani and/ or pedi is a lot these days. There are so many great nail formulas and fun DIY nail art products that you can do your own mani and pedi at home for a fraction of the cost.

8. Pet Toys 

I used to buy cat toys all the time. In fact, we kept having to donate them because we would collect so many and our cat didn't even have any interest in them. The ironic thing is that our cats have always had an interest in the "toys" that are free

Items like a twist tie, hair tie, toilet paper roll, and tin foil crinkled into a ball or just a piece of paper crinkled up into a ball. It's amazing how your pets can be entertained for hours with some little hair elastic, yet ignore the brand-new expensive toys.

9. Knick knacks + Souvenirs

I have to admit that I still struggle with this one a bit. Although I have stopped purchasing Knick knacks and souvenirs, I still get the urge to purchase them (hello dollar store). When this happens, I remind myself that we don't need more clutter or knick-knacks lying around the house. Unless it is something über-special, it's a no-buy for me.

10. Netflix / Streaming Services 

I am not against having a streaming service. They are usually a fun and inexpensive form of entertainment. But, how many streaming services do you really need? I asked myself this very question and decided that we only needed one. We kept Amazon Prime, solely because it had the most bang for our buck since it includes free Prime shipping as well as many other features like Prime Video and Prime music etc. We also purchased Amazon's affordable Fire TV Stick which we absolutely love! You can load it up with all kinds of apps and stream live TV, movies, shows and so much more. Once we cancelled our Netflix, we never looked back. So if you want to save a few bucks, see what streaming service(s) you can let go of and cut the cord. After all, if you regret it, which i doubt you will, you can always sign up again. 

I hope my no-buy list gave you some ideas on areas where you can start your own no-buy list so that you can start to save yourself some money and time, help the environment, and/or cut down on unnecessary clutter. And if you decide to purchase something now and then that's on your no-buy list, it's all good, rules were made to be broken, just be sure to get back to your no-buy list.

                                                        

This post contains affiliate links.  We may earn a commission if you use them. Thank you for your support.  #founditonamazon 

The Key Factors in Selecting Body Piercing Jewelry Material When Balancing Safety and Fashion

Choosing the appropriate material for body piercing jewelry is a vital consideration, as it directly influences your comfort, safety, and fashion. With numerous materials at your disposal, it's crucial to comprehend the characteristics, merits, and potential hazards of each to make a well-informed selection.

Implant-Quality Surgical Steel

Implant-quality surgical steel, like 316L stainless steel, is a favored material for body piercing adornments. Recognized for its sturdiness, resistance to corrosion, and hypoallergenic features, it's an ideal choice for initial piercings and diverse jewelry styles. This material ensures both fashionable appeal and reassurance for individuals with sensitive skin.

Titanium

Titanium is another excellent option for body piercing jewelry. Renowned for its lightweight nature and biocompatibility, it is often the choice for those with metal sensitivities or nickel allergies. Titanium comes in various colors through anodization, allowing for stylish and vibrant jewelry options.

Bioplast

Bioplast is a flexible, hypoallergenic material suitable for sensitive areas or individuals with metal allergies. Its flexibility allows for comfortable wear in body piercings prone to movement or swelling. Bioplast is often used in tongue, lip, and pregnancy belly button piercings.

Gold

Gold body piercing jewelry exudes elegance and has been cherished for centuries. It's important to note that not all gold jewelry is created equal. While pure 24k gold is an option, it is relatively soft. Gold alloys, such as 14k or 18k gold, are more durable and offer a range of colors, including yellow, white, and rose gold.

Niobium

Niobium is an excellent choice for individuals with metal sensitivities. It is naturally hypoallergenic and can be anodized to create vibrant colors. Niobium is often used for eyebrow, nose rings, and lip piercings, providing a balance between style and comfort.

Organic Materials

Organic materials like wood, bone, and horn are appreciated for their natural aesthetics. They offer a unique, earthy style for body piercings. However, it's crucial to ensure that the organic jewelry is properly finished and sealed to prevent moisture absorption and bacterial growth.

Plastics

Acrylic and Bioflex are lightweight and often used for temporary or decorative body piercing jewelry. While they offer versatility in style and color, they are generally not recommended for initial piercings or long-term wear due to potential irritation and susceptibility to scratching.

Gemstones and Crystals

Gemstones and crystals can be incorporated into various body piercing jewelry, adding elegance and color to your piercings. These stones are often set in a metal like gold or surgical steel and can complement your personal style.

Incorporating Style into Safety

Your choice of body piercing jewelry material should align with your personal style and preferences while also ensuring safety and comfort. It's crucial to prioritize the initial jewelry selection for a new piercing, considering the material's biocompatibility and hypoallergenic qualities. After the initial healing period, you can explore a wide range of materials and styles to express your unique personality and fashion sense.

The Importance of Proper Aftercare

Regardless of the material chosen, proper aftercare is essential to ensure the longevity and comfort of your body piercing jewelry. Regular cleaning and maintenance are critical to prevent infections and complications. Consult with a professional piercer or adhere to their aftercare guidelines to keep your piercings healthy and your jewelry shining.

In conclusion, selecting the right material for your body piercing jewelry is a blend of style, safety, and personal preferences. The choice should consider the biocompatibility and hypoallergenic properties of the material, especially for initial piercings. Once the healing process is complete, you can explore a wide range of materials and styles to express your unique personality and fashion sense while prioritizing comfort and health. Proper aftercare is crucial to ensure the longevity and comfort of your piercings, regardless of the material chosen.

A collaboration with Tri North Media

Dangerous or Useless Tiktok Trends You Should Not Use for Your Vagina According to A Gynecologist

TikTok has spawned thousands of health and beauty trends and hacks. Some of them are useful and some are downright dangerous. The vagina has not been spared when it comes to these viral trends put forth by non-experts, but nevertheless, they have caught on. Dr. Mickey Karram is a Beverly Hills, California Board Certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology as well as Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery of Visthetic Surgery Institute & MedSpa who seeks to dispel these dangerous practices.

Vaginal dabbing, as the name implies, involves applying vaginal secretions to specific areas on the body known as pulse points, such as the wrists, neck, and inside the elbows, much like you would apply a fragrance. This ritual is believed to make one highly attractive to a potential partner. This trend gained significant popularity on TikTok and received widespread attention on the internet. Advocates of this practice attribute its effectiveness to pheromones and deeply ingrained biological responses. They also argue that its low-risk and cost-free nature makes it harmless, although some dissenting voices disagree. To begin with, it's important to clarify that vabbing is not entirely without risks, despite being marketed as such. Whenever an object or body part is introduced into the vagina, there is a potential risk of infection. While thorough hand washing before the practice can help mitigate this risk, individuals with long fingernails may inadvertently introduce bacteria into the vagina. Conversely, there's also the risk of transmitting bacteria, yeast, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) from the vagina to the vabbing points on the body and, subsequently, to anything that encounters the skin.

Moisturizing melts in the vagina. What exactly are these moisturizing melts? They're non-medicated vaginal suppositories that claim to enhance the natural scent and taste of your vagina. These products come in various flavors, such as strawberry and peach. In January, a TikTok user shared her experience, claiming that these melts can make your intimate area taste and smell like the flavor you select. Another user summarized her positive encounter with a video that received 2.2 million likes. It's important to note that even though these vaginal suppositories are made from "all-natural" ingredients, it's still possible to experience irritation or allergic reactions to these components. However, here's another crucial consideration: your vagina isn't meant to have the taste or fragrance of fruits or flowers. The vagina has its own natural scent, which is entirely normal and healthy as it is a self-cleaning organ. If you have concerns about an unusual odor, consult a healthcare provider. There are commercially available vaginal inserts with a clinically tested pH balance that may be recommended. 

Placing ice cubes inside the vagina has gained attention on TikTok. A TikTok user claimed that inserting an ice cube into the vagina can potentially tighten it and even address bacterial overgrowth issues. This assertion led to a surge in people posting videos of themselves attempting this unconventional trend. However, it's important to note this practice's potential risks and limitations. If the vagina is dry, the ice cube may adhere uncomfortably, causing significant discomfort. 

Furthermore, melting an ice cube within the vagina could potentially disrupt its pH balance. Water, with a pH level of 7, differs significantly from the vagina's natural pH range of 3.5 to 4.5. 

Taking a shot of lemon juice to delay the onset of a menstrual cycle  is simply ineffective. Menstruation is a natural process and is not influenced by what you consume. Ingesting lemon juice has no impact on the ovaries or the communication between the brain and the ovaries. While taking a shot of lemon juice isn't harmful, it lacks a logical basis. 

Utilizing Boric Acid Suppositories for Yeast Infections. While numerous individuals on TikTok have been advocating for using boric acid suppositories to address vaginal yeast or bacterial infections, it is advisable to seek direct guidance from a qualified medical professional before attempting this remedy. Although boric acid has the potential to modify vaginal acidity levels, which might, in turn, offer relief from yeast infections and their associated symptoms like itching and burning, its effectiveness can vary, especially in cases of recurring infections.

Furthermore, there are specific scenarios in which boric acid suppositories are not recommended, such as during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or if one has allergies to boric acid, diabetes, compromised immune system, or frequent infections. Additionally, it's important to note that boric acid suppositories can lead to discomfort during sexual intercourse, as the acid has the potential to erode condoms and diaphragms. 

Yoni pearls Yoni pearls, named after the Sanskrit word for "vagina," are small bundles of various herbs. Some people claim that inserting them into their vaginas helps improve odor, remove toxins, or treat bacterial and yeast infections. But there isn't enough medical research to properly understand the effects. Avoid them because they have been reported to cause dryness, stinging, and cramping."

Vaginal steaming

Users on TikTok who have tried vaginal steaming (essentially a steam bath pointed directly at the vagina, referred to as V-steaming or yoni steaming to get around the app's censoring) share tons of purported claims about the benefits, from increasing libido to tightening the vagina. The treatment has been promoted by Goop founder Gwyneth Paltrow and other celebrities, including Chrissy Teigen, but doctors have quickly called them out. The vagina steam is a scam. Potentially harmful. Vaginal steaming only reaches the outer parts of your vagina and doesn't affect your uterus or cervix. The only recommended way to properly clean the outside of your vagina is unscented soap and warm water."

About Dr. Karram

Dr. Mickey Karram is an internationally renowned urogynecologist and pelvic surgeon. He is Board Certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery. He completed his fellowship training in Urogynecology and Reconstructive Surgery at Harbor UCLA School of Medicine. He is currently the Director of Urogynecology and Reconstructive Surgery at The Christ Hospital and a Clinical Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine.

He is the past Editor-In-Chief of the International Urogynecology Journal and the consumer publication Women’s Health Today and is past President of the American Urogynecology Society.  He has published more than 200 scientific articles and book chapters and has co-authored numerous textbooks including Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery; Atlas of Pelvic Anatomy and Gynecologic Surgery, and The Pelvic Surgery Video Atlas.

He is the Founder and CEO of The Foundation for Female Health Awareness www.femalehealthawareness.com a 501©3 non-for-profit organization dedicated to educating women on pelvic and breast health as well as supporting unbiased research.

Dr. Karram has directed a number of post-graduate teaching courses throughout the United States, Europe, Asia, South America, and Australia. Dr. Karram has been designated by Good Housekeeping Magazine as one of the “Best Doctors in America for Women.”

Skincare Tips to Transition from Summer to Fall

Now that Fall is finally here, it's a good time to reevaluate your skincare routine. The changing seasons bring changes in humidity, temperature, and environmental factors, all of which can impact your skin's health and appearance. What worked for you during the hot and humid Summer months may not provide the same benefits in the Fall. Switching up your skincare routine is essential for maintaining a healthy and radiant complexion throughout the seasonal transition. 

David Petrillo is a Nevada-based cosmetic chemist and founder of www.perfectimage.com. He's sharing his tips on how to keep your skin healthy and glowing as the season changes.

Consider Retinol: Fall can be an excellent time to introduce retinol into your routine, as it helps with cell turnover and addressing fine lines.

 

Lip Care: Prevent chapped lips using a nourishing lip balm with shea butter, beeswax, or coconut oil.

 

Eye Cream Emphasis: The delicate skin around your eyes can become drier. Use a hydrating eye cream to maintain elasticity and prevent fine lines.

 

Layer Skincare Products: Layer lighter serums and essences under richer moisturizers to provide a barrier against the dry, cold air while ensuring effective hydration.

 

Sunscreen Continuation: While the sun's intensity might decrease, UV rays are still present and can cause damage to your skin. Continue using broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect against harmful UV radiation.

 

Switch to a Heavier Night Cream: Use a richer night cream during the cooler months to nourish and repair your skin as you sleep.

Gentle Exfoliation: After months of sun exposure, exfoliation is essential to remove dead skin cells and promote skin renewal. Opt for gentle exfoliants to reveal a fresh layer of skin without irritating it.

 

Avoid Hot Showers: While hot showers might be tempting during the cooler months, they can strip your skin of its natural oils. Instead, use lukewarm water to prevent excessive dryness.

 

Introduce a Hydrating Serum: Invest in a hydrating serum containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid to help retain moisture and combat the drying effects of cooler weather.

 

Protect Your Hands and Feet: As the temperature drops, your hands and feet can become susceptible to dryness and cracking. Apply a moisturizing hand cream and foot cream regularly to keep them soft and well-nourished.

Adjust Cleansing: Consider switching to cream-based or oil-based cleansers during the fall. These cleansers are more hydrating and can help prevent stripping away too much moisture from your skin. Avoid using harsh cleansers that can further dry out your skin.

 

Introduce new actives: Autumn may be a good time to introduce new active ingredients into your skincare routine . Look for ingredients like vitamin C or retinol to address specific skincare concerns.

 

Stay Hydrated

Hydrating your skin from the inside out is just as important as using topical products. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.

 

Humidifier:

If you're using indoor heating during the fall, it can lead to dry indoor air. Using a humidifier can help maintain a more comfortable level of moisture in the air, which benefits your skin's hydration.

Soothing Ingredients:

If you experience any redness or irritation due to the changing weather, look for products with soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or centella asiatica (cica) to calm your skin.

David Petrillo

          Reno, Nevada

               https://perfectimage.com/ 

 

David Petrillo graduated in 2007 with a degree in Chemistry from Missouri University before working as a cosmetics industry researcher. His experiences in the lab led him to found his own company, Perfect Image, with a vision of making medical-grade peels and other cosmetic products more affordable.