Author Archives: FultonHomes

New to Arizona? Here Is What You Need to Know!

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The Grand Canyon State is the hottest state in the United States. It offers a beautiful, desert landscape with some of the bluest skies in America. However, this state is full of unique features that locals have gotten used to over the years. While the state has seen a dramatic increase in population in the last fifteen years, it is definitely the hot spot (no pun intended) for travelers and families alike. Here are some of the unique Arizonan features that you will want to understand before you settle into your new home:

Sunrise/Sunset

Arizona has an early sunrise as well as an early sunset. Typically, the sun can rise around 5:00 AM, which will allow many individuals to get an early start on their mornings. Likewise, the sunset is earlier than other, more northern states. You can expect the sun to set around 7:30 PM in the longest days of the year.

Heat

The sunrise and sunset can also affect the peak heat coming into the afternoon. Arizona has little cloud coverage, and the desert will get cooler at night; however, do not expect chilly evenings during the summer. During the summer, the nights can stay in the 90s. Expect extreme heat and a lot of direct sunlight throughout the day. If you are easily burnt, you will want to put on sunscreen daily and avoid spending long periods of time outside during the afternoon. Additionally, you will notice that playgrounds get busy after the sun has set because it allows the kids to play freely without the worry of heat exhaustion from the sun. If you plan summer activities outdoors, you may want to wait until the sun has set to enjoy the beautiful weather without the intense heat. Also, remember to encourage your little ones to stay hydrated.

Snowbirds

Traffic into downtown can be very dense. Consider leaving your home early whenever traveling into the city. However, you will notice that traffic lightens up significantly during the summer. Many individuals are considered “snowbirds” and only live in Arizona during the winter months. When summer hits, they fly back to other states where they may reside – this will help traffic move much smoother during summer months. If you move to the Valley during the summer, anticipate thicker traffic to arrive towards the end of autumn.

Air Quality

Remember that Arizona is a desert oasis. Dust storms may occur and can often affect the air quality in the Valley. To avoid getting sick or the Valley Fever, pay attention to the air quality in your city. While this may not bother you, some individuals can be susceptible to reduced air quality. Simple apps on your phone or the news will help give you insight on the air quality in your area and help you stay healthy.

Arizona is a melting pot of culture, opportunity, and beautiful. There is so much this state has to offer. With all the beauty, it can be easy to ignore some minor inconveniences and unique quirks this state offers. However, being aware of them can help keep you safe and smart at all times.

Helpful Tips for First-Time Dorm Students

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Wow, summer flew by, and you have three or four weeks before you enter college as a freshman! We know this can be a daunting task and one that can make you unsure, especially if you never lived away from home. We are here to help make the transition easier and give you some valuable tips for moving into a dorm.

You are about to enter the next phase of your life. These days will be some of the best in your life. Enjoy, go with the flow, try not to be shy and make sure to go to class! Below, you will find ideas about what to buy, styles, and decor choices with organizational options for your dorm. Let’s take a look!

Accent Color

Your dorm room will be freshly painted a neutral color like white, cream, or light beige. Most likely the woodwork and doors will also be painted the same color of the walls in a gloss or semi-gloss paint for easy cleanup. If you have a roommate or not, we recommend choosing an accent color and sticking with that one color. Regarding the psychology of color, think about using blues, greens, or soft yellows as your accent color. These three colors are calming, happy, remind us of nature, and put us in a great mood!

Area Rug

If you have been paying attention to design style for the last couple of years, you have noticed that many dormers have chosen faux fur and shag area rugs. These types of area rugs have a really cool look but are challenging to clean and are not as durable as other types of rugs. We recommend purchasing a braided rug or a traditional woven rug in a neutral color. If the rug is a neutral color, the room will look larger and will not show dirt like a light or darker colored area rug.

Utilize Wall Space

Do not forget that your wall space is not the entire room, your roommate has half of the space. Usually, the ceiling height is taller than the standard height of an average bedroom. Think about purchasing a lightweight cotton/rayon tapestry that is made with stunning colors and designs. These tapestries come in various sizes and are often inexpensive, but do the job of covering an ample empty space on the wall. Here is where you can bring pops of color in the space with your chosen accent color. Also, with all the new organizational trends, there are many different ways to organize your busy life like putting up a bulletin board that tracks and reminds you of important dates, to-dos, birthdates of family and friends, library notices, etc.

We wish you the best of luck on your new adventure! May the next four years be filled with good friends and great memories.

Protect Your Pups from Arizona Heat

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While living in the Valley feels like paradise, it does not take very long for locals to recognize that Arizona’s heat is no joke. The Valley is quickly growing in population, and more pet owners are becoming unaware of the dangers this heat can have on their animals’ welfare. During the hot summer months, your pet needs to be in a well-shaded area and provided with plenty of water. The heat is brutal and can take a toll on your furry friends very quickly. To prevent some of these dangers, here are several guidelines to consider:

Indoors

While you may be accustomed to outdoor pets, Arizona may have you reconsider. Not all dogs can handle Arizona’s desert sun. If your property does not offer adequate shade, you may need to bring your animal inside. Do not just leave your dog in a closed garage! Though shade is provided, this can quickly turn into a hot box and severely dehydrate your animal.

Water

Hydration is critical! During the summer, the temperature can stay as hot as 90 degrees even during the coolest parts of the night. Because of this, even when the sun goes down, dehydration can still become a concern. Always provide an outdoor water dish for your animal. Remember to keep it filled and check it daily.

Paws

Have you ever walked on blacktop pavement or even concrete in the sun barefoot? Then, you probably know how hot it can get. While dogs and cats paws are tougher than our feet, they can still get burnt. There are several companies which manufacture footsies for animals. Consider buying these for your pets to protect their feet from the scorching pavement. This little investment can make a significant impact on your dog’s well-being.

Keep your pets safe this summer and remember to keep them hydrated. Panting can be the first sign of dehydration. Pay attention if your dog becomes lethargic as well. Your animals need your help to stay safe.

Warm Weather Home Transitions

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As the Arizona temperatures outside begin to rise, it is important to transition your home for warmer weather. A lot of our homes are still filled with items that resemble cooler months. We have a list prepared for homeowners to transition into the warmer weather months. Let’s take a look!

Your Bed

You may have accumulated heavier blankets and bedding for the cooler months. Now that the weather is warming up, you will want to remove heavy winter-type bedding and try to leave more breathable sheets and bedding on your bed. Store your heavy bedding in a convenient, easy-to-find place for when the weather begins to get cool. For now, you can stick to just your sheets and a comforter/duvet on your bed.

Your Decor

Spring and summertime decor tend to be filled with uplighting, bright colors. Store your winter decorations and bring out your cheerful, bright colored decor to display! From pineapples to palm trees, you can play around with trendy summertime themed designs for your home. Try incorporating some summery pillows, figurines, candles, and pictures in your home.

Your Products

Winter and summer definitely have different scents in the fragrance world. Be sure to swap out your winter scents for fruity scents this summer.

Your Windows

Let the sun shine in this summer by removing bulky, heavy curtains and replacing them with lightweight, breezy curtains. Make sure to take the time to clean off your windows and windowsills from any dust and debris that may have accumulated over the cooler Arizona months.

Your Plants

Who does not love greenery? Adding potted plants can bring life and brighten up a space. Try incorporating some fresh flowers whenever your budget allows for a fresh smell and look.

Your Closets

Bring your summer clothing to the front of the closet and your winter clothing to the back of the closet. Store bulky winter items in boxes and stash them away for the season.

This is one of the best seasonal transitions to prepare for because you know it will be filled with sunshine, friends, and flowers. What is your favorite thing to do over the summertime? We would love to hear in the comment section.

Let’s Clean the Kitchen in Under 20 Minutes

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We know everyone is busy with work, kids and finding the time just to straighten up, much less clean. Many of us do not have the luxury of a housekeeper, so we tend to prioritize our tasks, and generally, housecleaning is not on the top of that list. After a little thought and consideration, we have developed a process for cleaning the most important room in the house, the kitchen, in under 20 minutes!

Start by looking around the kitchen and picking up things like the newspaper, shoes, etc. and place them where they belong. Clean off your countertops and get out your cleaning supplies. | 3 minutes

Dust with microfiber cloths and dust from the top down, so that the dust falls to the floor and is not left on top of cabinets, etc. | 2 minutes

Check the fridge and throw out any and all items that are old and expired. Take your cleaning cloth with cleanser and wipe the fridge and freezer inside and out starting at the top and go down to the bottom. | 3 minutes

Dirty dishes. . .did you know that you burn less energy by running the dishwasher when it is full than by hand washing a sink full of dishes here and there? So load up that dishwasher and give it a spin! | 1 minute

Now you have dusted, cleaned the dishes and fridge, take your cleaning cloth and cleanser and clean the countertops, stovetop, and microwave. | 3 minutes

Start vacuuming the floor and baseboards. Do you have a small rug, give it a shake outside. If you have a cordless vacuum, this saves precious minutes by not dealing with tangled cords! | 3 minutes

Now put everything back in its place while putting up away all of your cleaning tools! | 2 minutes

Sit down and take a breather as you gaze over you sparkling clean kitchen! | 2 minutes

We hope you enjoy our tips and would love to hear your ideas on cleaning!

Your Guide to Antique Shopping

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Are you thinking of adding character to your home by incorporating some antique pieces? The world of antiques is vast, but it has so much to offer. Many people think that you have to have access to exclusive places in order to get some really lovely pieces; however, antiques are more accessible than you may think. If you are curious and do not know where to start, do not worry; we are here to guide you.  

An antique is an item that is at least a hundred years old. Goods are considered to be vintage if they are at least two decades old. Collectibles also can be a chic addition to the home. Collectibles can be items that are either vintage or antique. 

Why Invest in Antiques? 

  • Antiques can add a ton of warmth and style to your home. Here are some key reasons why your antiques can be the stylish touch that your home needs: 
  • Most new furniture that you will find in big box stores decreases in value over time. However, antiques hold their value and in some instances, can increase over the years.  
  • Most antique furniture and items are made from high quality and durable materials as opposed to mass-produced items. You can expect it to last for several more years to come.  
  • Even more importantly, a beautiful antique item can add a lot of character to a space, especially if there is a history behind it.  

Learning More About Antiques 

If you have an interest in antiques but do not know where to start, you should begin teaching yourself about different styles and their time periods. You can visit antique shops, auctions, and fairs to see what kind of pieces are out there. Most dealers love to share their knowledge.  

Shopping Online or Instore 

You can shop for antiques online and in-store. However, shopping for antiques in person is always much better, especially when you are just beginning. Vendors will sell at fairs, flea markets, and estate sales.   You can also shop through online vendors like Craigslist and eBay. Here are some things you should keep in mind when shopping online: 

  • Large furniture pieces come with hefty shipping prices. 
  • Ask for additional information such as photos from different angles and do not be afraid to ask questions 
  • Inquire about the vendor’s return policy 

We hope our advice helps you feel more confident about buying antiques for your home. If you are an avid antiquer yourself, we encourage you to share your processes and thoughts below in the comment section.

Why You Cannot Go Wrong with Cotton Furniture

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Textures like velvet and linen may be trendy, but you can never go wrong with plain, old-fashioned cotton. This is especially so when it is time to pick out furniture. If you are planning to purchase a new sofa or to reupholster an old one, you might be tempted to embrace popular textures like velvet or linen. However, if you are looking for something durable, easy to maintain, and worth your money, you might want to look towards cotton.  

Cotton Is Not a Boring Choice

Cotton does not have to be bland. Depending on the fabric, it can be pretty formal or modern chic. Cotton fabrics can take on many different patterns and looks based on the way it is woven. For instance, casual slipcovers are typically canvas-woven, whereas damask or velvet weave is reserved for more formal or elegant pieces.  

Choosing High Quality and Durable Cotton Furniture 

If you are searching for furniture that can last for several years to come, cotton is your best bet. For high-quality cotton, you will need to invest in cotton that is produced from long staples. Premium cotton produced from long staples provides a fabric that can feel just as smooth and luxurious as silk. Fabrics that use shorter fibers are less durable. You can typically tell the difference between long and short fiber pieces. When shopping for the perfect cotton furnishing, you will want to know if it was produced from long or short cotton fiber.  

The weave also determines durability. Muslin or percale woven cotton is thin and less durable than other cotton forms. You will find that heavier cotton fabric with densely woven threads are much more durable and lasts longer.  

Why Should You Choose Cotton Furniture? 

Cotton furniture will always be an excellent choice for upholstery. It is super breathable and does not trap in moisture or heat-this makes it comfortable to sit and rest on in Arizona. Also, cotton has good abrasion resistance, which means you can expect it to be long-lasting. If it is important to have a material that can be easily cleaned or that is washable, cotton is no doubt your best bet.  

For more household tips and tricks, be sure to visit our blog hub at Fulton Homes.

Using a Mirror in Your Decor

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Mirrors serve a variety of purposes in the home. They can be used to reflect light, visually expand small spaces, and they are aesthetically pleasing when implemented the right way. Before you start hanging mirrors around the house, it is essential to follow a few guidelines. Here are some tips for designing with mirrors:

Large Mirrors in Small Rooms

Use an oversized mirror in a tiny space to instantly create the illusion of depth. However, you do want to give some consideration to where exactly you place this mirror. For instance, in a small dining room, you should put the large mirror above the dining room table. The mirror will reflect the chandelier making the room seem more significant than what it actually is.  

Be Careful When Installing Mirrors in the Kitchen and Bedroom

While mirrors are not necessary for the kitchen, often homeowners use this as backsplashes. Mirrored backsplashes would require a lot of maintenance due to the fact that they are easily marred with visible watermarks and other types of stains.  

Mirrors in the bedroom are often used as the decor of this area. If you are set on using mirrors in your bedroom decor, you should place it in a not-so-obvious area such as up behind your headboard. 

Use Mirrors to Accent the Focal Point 

What is the focal point of your room? You can use mirrors to emphasize the focal point further. Try placing a mirror above a fireplace or as a piece of artwork. If the room lacks a focal point, you can use mirrors to create interest. You can also use lighting fixtures to enhance mirrors further.  

Visually Expand Narrow Spaces

Mirrors also work in areas of the home that often get neglected, such as staircases and hallways. Small horizontal mirrors can expand narrow hallways and staircases.  

The Mirrored Furniture Trend 

Mirrored furniture is a great way to utilize mirrors in your home’s decor. A mirrored coffee table, dresser, and nightstand are some subtle ways to add mirrors into your design by creating a chic and modern look.  

How do you use mirrors in your home design? Let us know below in the comment section.

Secret Household Cleaners: Hydrogen Peroxide

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Hydrogen peroxide is a household antiseptic. Generally, when you think of hydrogen peroxide, you would probably consider it as a first aid product; however, hydrogen peroxide is more than just a first aid cleaning product. This oxidizer is an incredible bleaching agent and disinfectant. If you have a bottle of hydrogen peroxide, you may have more household uses for it than you realize. Here are three secret household cleaning tips for hydrogen peroxide:

Excellent Grout Cleaner

Grout is porous and can stain easily and be difficult to clean after the sealer wears. Simply, mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to create a paste. Use two-parts baking soda and one-part hydrogen peroxide and take a toothbrush to scrub the grout lines. Allow it to sit for a couple of minutes then remove the paste with a wet rag. You may need to add a lot of water on your rag to help clean up some of the gritty soot left behind from the paste.

Perfect Toilet Bowl Cleaner

We use hydrogen peroxide as a disinfectant agent because of how well it works at killing unwanted bacteria. Add a cup or two to your toilet bowl and use a toilet brush to scrub around the hydrogen peroxide. This bleaching product will help break down unwanted residue and bring back your natural white porcelain. Allow the product to sit for an hour to fully work its magic. After, simply just flush your toilet.

Alternative Laundry Bleach Agent

Hydrogen peroxide is an excellent bleaching agent. The unstable peroxide bond is responsible for the oxidation. When you are washing your clothes, consider adding hydrogen peroxide into the bleach compartment of the machine-this is environmentally-friendly and a great alternative. It will break down the chemical protein bonds and leave your clothes looking brighter and cleaner than ever!

Hydrogen Peroxide has many everyday household uses. If you have hydrogen peroxide in your home, consider using it for its many added benefits. From killing germs to an excellent cleaning product, hydrogen peroxide is more beneficial than just being in your medicine cabinet. For more insight on other secret household cleaners, make sure to subscribe!

Secret Household Cleaners: Vinegar & Baking Soda

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You may not need to invest in some harsh cleaning chemicals to remove stains in your home. Vinegar and baking soda are as great of a combination as salt and pepper. Maybe not on your food, but still in the kitchen. Actually, throughout the whole home! Vinegar and baking soda create a fantastic paste which can be an all-natural remedy cleaning product. The perfect homogenous blend of acid and base-both work together to remove and clean the worst stains. Here are some simple ways to use this combo in your own home:

Fantastic Stainless Steel Cleaner

Stainless-steel is beautiful; however, it can get greasy easily and lose that luster it once had. Make your stainless-steel look new again with your homemade baking soda and vinegar cleaner. This bubbly concoction works great at restoring stainless steel.

Remarkable Carpet Stain Remover

Carpet is a substantial home investment, so we never want it to wear or stain early. When wine or urine penetrates carpet, it can be challenging to remove; however, vinegar and baking soda are perfect for removing the deepest of stains. Remove as much of the stain as possible first by patting with a dry paper towel. Add your baking soda onto the floor on top of the stain then pour vinegar onto the baking soda mound – this will begin the chemical reaction. Allow it to bubble for some time then wipe away residue and shop vac. Your stain will be gone!

Amazing Backsplash Cleaner

There are plenty of cleaners on the market today, yet this one you can make in your own home. This degreaser and stain remover is your baking soda and vinegar blend. Start by creating your paste and allow to bubble, apply it onto your backsplash and spread, and then you can use a scrub brush on the grout lines. Lastly, wipe down and enjoy!

Baking soda and vinegar are excellent at cleaning your home. Sometimes we forget to look for a natural remedy we already have. Knowing alternative uses for daily items in your home can save you time and money. For more insight on other secret household cleaners, make sure to subscribe!