But unlike gas fireplaces, you do pay for that genuine experience in the form ofregular maintenance. Fire can seek a path through the gaps and burn the house’s structural elements. Fix mortar gaps inside the fireplace’s firebox with a mineral-based filler called fireplace mortar or refractory caulk. Image Source / Getty Images After that, it’s just a matter of caulking the joints. Chimney cleaning rids your flue of potentially hazardous creosote and other flammable debris....

Similar to PEX pipe, black poly pipe is made from polyethylene and known for durability. However, like othertypes of plumbing pipes, it does not last forever. Black poly pipe can develop leaks with time and with the help of tree roots. The Spruce / Kevin Norris As roots grow, they push against the pipe and eventually break it. Sometimes you will be able to locate the problem by digging up the wet area in your yard....

Damaging the shower arm while the showerhead is being replaced is a surprisingly common occurrence. It’s also possible that either of the threaded joints simply isn’t sealing properly. Many showerheads look like metal but are actually plastic with a chrome finish. Glow Decor / Getty Images Plastic cracks a lot more easily than metal (but metal can crack, too). Just like the showerhead, the threaded connection between the shower arm and the elbow can leak....

Another reason to change the seal is when it becomes hard to flush the toilet. An old, stiff flush valve seal can put extra stress on the handle or chain. Hold down the flush handle to empty as much water from the tank as possible. The Spruce / Kevin Norris Use a bucket as needed to remove any excess water. Some tower flush valves do not have this, but the Kohler models do....

Flagstone is a popular design choice for patios and walkways. Learn about this versatile stone and if it’s right for your home. What Is Flagstone? YinYang / Getty Images Flagstone is a sedimentary stone that’s sliced into different pieces and layers. Types of rock used for flagstone include sandstone,bluestone, slate, quartzite, and limestone. Flagstone is a sedimentary rock, often made of sandstone. Victoria Pearson / Getty Images It is commonly available in the colors red, blue, and brownish-yellow....

Flame azalea grows best in full or partial sunlight and needs well-draining, acidic soil. Like otherazalea species, all parts of the plant are toxic to humans and pets. Although they prefer partial shade, this shrub can grow in full sun if the heat is moderate. kellyvandellen / Getty Images Soil Like other azalea species, flame azalea prefers acidic soil. Ideally, the soil should be moist but the shrub does exhibit some drought tolerance....

Is a Floating Floor Right for You? A floating floor is a method ofinstalling floor coveringsrather than a punch in of flooring itself. The flooring units interlock edge-to-edge to form a single mat-like surface that rests on the underlayment. The Spruce / Kevin Norris No harsh adhesives are needed. It’s not necessary to rent compressors or floor staplers. A well-installed floating floor requires a solid, level subfloor. Some floating floors can feel hollow underfoot, lacking the solidity of nailed-down hardwood or bondedceramic tile....

The tiles are attached to plastic trays. Each tray locks to a neighboring tray with a tongue-and-groove system. The tiles do not join to each otheronly their supporting bases do. wernerimages / Getty Images The trays automatically space the tiles and control alignment. No thinset mortar below the tiles is required, though grout must be installed between the tiles. The floating floor system is common with other types of flooring, notablylaminate flooringandluxury vinyl tile flooring....

And one of the more crucial layers is one that is rarely seenthe underlayment. Foam, cork, and rubber are common soft underlayments. Hard underlayment materials include plywood and hardboard. The Spruce / Kevin Norris Tip Underlayment and subfloor are easily confused because both act as bases for the floor covering. Think of subfloor as a structural base and underlayment as more of a stabilizing base. Where Underlayment Fits in a Floor Structure Most floors in residential homes consist of four layers....

Studio Peake Floral prints are everywhere this summer, much to interior designers' delight. “Florals can make a space feel vibrant and warm.” Below, pros weigh in with their go-to solutions. Studio Peake “after you snag a preferred base, its easier to mix and match for a layered look.” Speaking of color scheme, it’s wise to stick with ageneral palettefor maximal sophistication. you’ve got the option to also look to your overall home when selecting shades....

As with any closed system, one problem sometimes does emerge: trapped moisture. When water gets trapped between the glass, it manifests itself as fog on the inside. This moisture cannot escape on its own. The Spruce / Letícia Almeida where energy saving does not matter. What Causes Foggy Glass? The fogginess may come and go, depending on weather conditions. The second solution is to defog the glass from the inside-out....

If you tap on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Target In need of a home refresh? There’s something for every room, fromkitchen accessoriesand candles to elegant lighting and faux plants. Target We love how the blush hue and slight curves add a flowery, soft touch to tablescapes. Want more of our favorite products? We’re adding to cart. Target The brass decals and arch cutout are standout features of this kitchen staple....

Your space is a reflection of you and the people you live with. Whether you rent or own, nearly no home is perfect. After all, home is where the heart is. Image Treatment by The Spruce;Bethany Adams Interiors Read on for five ways to love your home, even when its not your dream home. Whether you own or rent, adding the right products can make a difference in your home....