COMMON MISTAKES HOMEOWNERS MAKE WHEN SCHEDULING WORK

“Time is Money”…

Spring has arrived and outdoor maintenance is in full swing. Budding plants and trees renew our spirit with eagerness to clean and beautify our homes. With so many things to be done, each homeowner decides which tasks to do themselves, and which to hire out to a professional. Keenly anticipating outdoor cookouts and gatherings after what feels like the longest two years spent isolating, we may think that it would be most efficient to schedule all such work at once. To a homeowner, it would seem ideal to have everything done in one day, so that tasks do not linger, or go undone. However, it is exactly this “efficiency” which actually proves contradictory, counterproductive, costly, and in many cases, unsafe. Why the problem?

Landscapers, Painters, and House Cleaners do not mix with Pressure Washing and Window Cleaning Services.

Most professional services use large trucks from which they obtain their equipment. Some of this equipment requires long hoses which must be reeled out onto your property, proving a trip hazard. Many professionals use long ladders which must be carefully carried so as not to prove a hazard to other humans, plants, or property. Solvents may be used which may be harmful to new landscaping, or be hazardous to other workers. Heavy trucks may roll over hoses of other companies, causing damage or breakage, costing time and money. In many areas, parking multiple professional service vehicles presents a logistic problem, preventing work to be done. Not to mention the fact that it is counterproductive to schedule moisture (humidity) creating jobs with jobs which require dry conditions, such as mulching and painting. Also, there is the matter of safety, not just in the amount of people working on or in your home, many of which will be focused on their own work, not on the potential hazards around them, including COVID.

From a homeowner’s perspective, this may all seem very convenient, to have a ‘one and done’ mentality. However, it is not convenient for ANYONE, especially the homeowner, when jobs must be rescheduled due to conflict of time, space, efficiency, or safety, or worse still, to be cancelled altogether. All it takes is a little consideration and communication so that each homeowner’s needs may be met in a safe and efficient manner.

Very often, when these principles are ignored, the homeowner is the one who loses out, being unable to be rescheduled in a timely fashion. It is also frustrating for workers, attempting to do their job, having to spend many hours negotiating between the homeowner and the other contractors, instead of efficiently working. This costs companies time and money, when such could be avoided by honest disclosure from the homeowner.

What can you do?

Benjamin Franklin said, “Time is Money”. At Grime Fighters, we respect both your time and your money. We appreciate when our customers reciprocate that respect. When scheduling your Pressure Washing and Window Cleaning Services, it is important to communicate with our Office Manager what other services you may have scheduled the same day, and what time frame they will occupy. This positive, pro-active communication enables us to meet your needs and dynamically function so as to build a stronger community relationship.

The Grime Fighter Team looks forward to rejuvenating your home this Spring!

Top 5 Reasons to Power Wash in Spring and Who Should Do It

Spring’s imminent arrival beckons us to begin anew. We eagerly clean and prepare to welcome longer days and warmer breezes into our home. It is therefore crucial that we also properly clean the exterior of our homes during this season of transition.

Weather extremes have certainly contributed to a significantly volatile season. And not to be ignored is the effect on our homes. Abundant moisture and humidity create a breeding ground for algae, mold, and mildew. Strong winds are not only destructive to your home’s exterior, they also carry debris to areas of moisture which becomes food for mold and algae. Furthermore, dirt and debris have lodged themselves in the cracks, corners, and crevices of your home’s exterior. Fluctuating temperatures forcing freeze and thaw cycles wreak havoc on salted, flat surfaces. Decks and patios covered in winter’s slime create hazardous pathways. Gutters forced beyond capacity by heavy moisture, weakened by strong winds, can become destructive to your roof and siding. These factors are even more probable if your home was not winterized last Autumn, in preparation of Winter’s wet weather and decreased sunlight, which only increase the likelihood of growing grime.

TOP 5 REASONS TO POWER WASH IN SPRING:

  • INVITE. (The guests you don’t want.) Your home could be extending an invitation for destructive organisms.
  • INSPECT. An excellent time and opportunity to check your home’s exterior for potential damage, before it becomes structural damage.
  • IDEAL. Milder weather and temperatures along with extended daylight, provide an ideal time for power washing.
  • IRRITANTS. Spring allergens (pollen, dust, and dirt) are at their highest levels. House washing, flat surface cleaning, and window cleaning will keep these allergens where they belong.
  • INVIGORATE. Earth springs back to life and we do, too. Take advantage of the longer days to lift your spirits and breathe life back into your home. Make your home your haven.

There is no shortage of task lists and outdoor projects in Spring. In fact, it is synonymous with the season. Rather than feeling overwhelmed with Spring Cleaning, rely on the professionals to help get the job done.

Here’s why Grime Fighters has the edge over your D.I.Y.

  • TOOLS, TRAINING, TECHNIQUE. There are different solutions and treatments for different jobs. Your siding requires a different psi than your sidewalk. Whether it is slimy siding or spot-free windows, our team is trained to understand and provide your home’s unique needs so you don’t have to spend your Saturday stuck in a learning curve.
  • SAFETY, HONESTY, TRUSTWORTHINESS. Safety and Honesty are the hallmarks of everything we do at Grime Fighters. That means our team acts safely, honestly, and professionally AT ALL TIMES. Taking care of your home is not just our job, it’s part of our community responsibility. Great care is taken in scheduling and executing work so as to build trust with our neighbours, whether in our local Lehigh Valley, or neighboring Bucks and Montgomery Counties.

At Grime Fighters, your needs come first. You don’t trust just anyone to clean and protect your home. Whether you need to clean your sidewalk, deck, patio, siding, windows, or gutters, trust Grime Fighters to revive your home this Spring.

Salty Paws, Pitted Sidewalks, and Parched Plants

How to Safely Minimize the Damaging Impact of Rock Salts on People, Pets, Property, and the Environment.

Treachery: From the Old French word, “trechier”, meaning: to cheat. Treachery is defined as cheating, trickery, or deceit; betrayal of trust; deceptive action or nature. When it comes to winter, there is a bit of “cheating” that can indeed be treacherous.

Rock Salt, comprised of large amounts of Potassium Chloride or Sodium Chloride, certainly cheats the effects of wintry ice and snow, but underneath that briny veneer lies a formidable breach of trust. While paving the way for safer, drier traction on slippery surfaces, untold damage lurks beneath. Rock salt may be friendly to your wallet, but has a great cost on humans, pets, property, and the environment.

Dangers include “salt burns” and rashes to exposed skin, accidental ingestion leading to vomiting, coughing fits and gastrointestinal symptoms, accidental exposure to pets and other animals leads to diarrhea, vomiting, seizures, fatigue, drooling, disorientation, long-term gastrointestinal issues, and salt poisoning. Further damage is seen in scorched plants as the melted solution seeps into the soil, as well as topically, dehydrating plants of moisture and nutrients. The soil becomes less fertile as salty concentrations create poor water infiltration and erosion. When large amounts of rock salt are used it seeps into the water supply, harming aquatic life and damaging drinking water.

When it comes to your home and property, the immediate benefits of rock salt are outweighed by long-term damage. The chlorides that quickly work to melt ice and snow create a brine that breaks the surface tension of ice on concrete, but also weakens the surface of concrete, resulting in disintegration. The subsequent freeze/thaw cycle that is created deteriorates concrete, creating pockets which allow more moisture to penetrate the surface, and thus slowly chip away as the integrity of the substrate breaks down. These chlorides similarly corrode steel, break down wood decking, even “burning” or “bleaching” indoor flooring.

Happily, there are safer alternatives, equally as effective, without such caustic effects. Other types of ice melts comprised of magnesium chloride and calcium chloride, cost slightly more, but prove their efficacy in lower freezing points, reducing the risk of salt burns, and proving more effective longevity in colder temperatures. Care and discretion must still be exercised as these do not provide as much traction, but can easily be supplemented by substrates such as kitty litter, sand, and coffee grounds, the latter of these also acting as natural ice melt, absorbing sunlight, heating surfaces to melt ice and snow, while providing extra traction. To protect our indoor and outdoor furry friends, look for a product that features “Pet Safe” on the label.

Other safety measures include storing any ice melting product in a sealed, air-tight container, away from sunlight and moisture, to prevent accidental leaching or spilling. Do not allow direct contact with skin or paws. Apply on surfaces before a storm arrives to minimize potential build-up. After a storm, first remove snow by shoveling, then use ice melt minimally, supplementing with traction alternatives as sand, coffee grounds, or kitty litter. Upon finishing, always remove shoes so as not to track substrates into the home, and immediately wash your hands, to prevent any accidental ingestion in yourself, or family members, especially the furry ones.

When it comes to safety, we would not intentionally harm ourselves, our loved ones, or our environment. Educating ourselves, we can make better choices for our family, our home, and our planet. Small choices can have a big impact.

BUILDING THE NEW FOR 2022

“The secret of change is to focus all your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new.” -Dan Millman

David Allan Coe said, “It is not the beauty of a building you should look at; its the construction of the foundation that will stand the test of time.” After one of the busiest and longest working seasons to date, Grime Fighters anticipates an even better season this year, 2022. We want to show our appreciation to our loyal customers (and new ones) for returning time and again. Therefore we are excited to reveal some improvements that will benefit both our technicians and our customers, at no extra charge.

At Grime Fighters, we are constantly striving to improve safety measures. It is our primary concern! The safety of our technicians and the safety of your property are reflected in our improvements and goals. Safety, Efficiency, and Quality of People, Water, and Systems are the hallmarks for which we endeavour. Therefore, this season embarks with changes to staff, more training, and education including new methods, tools, and innovation. This includes a 3-PHASE UPGRADE with the goal of radically reducing our liability footprint, increasing the safety of our technicians and of our customers’ landscaping.

UPGRADES:

  • 1ST PHASE: WATER-FED POLE SYSTEM
  • New low-friction, high-volume hoses
  • New state-of-the-art pumping system
  • New brushes
  • New DI water filtration

(Maximizes efficiency of time, water, cleaning agents. No excess, no waste.)

  • 2ND PHASE: PRESSURE WASHING SYSTEM
  • New Mixing Valve Station

(Meters all fluids so as to only use precisely what is necessary.)

  • 3RD PHASE: ROOF CLEANING SYSTEM

As our highest liability service, we are taking steps to streamline, with a special project to be released at a later date.

How will you, the customer, benefit from these changes, upgrades, and improvements?

  • Higher Quality, without a price hike.
  • Reduced Liability.
  • Efficiency. Technicians will not be there any longer than is necessary.

Grime Fighters also benefits from these changes.

  • Better use of resources.
  • Performance Improvement.
  • Safer Work Environment.

To show our appreciation to our customers, we want to give you more, without paying more. Therefore, for the month of February, beginning February 1st, we are offering a special:

  • 10% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT to any LEHIGH VALLEY customer
  • 15% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT to MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEIGHBOURS
  • 20% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT to any LEHIGH VALLEY customer that refers a MONTGOMERY COUNTY customer.

*MENTION THIS BLOG TO RECEIVE THE DISCOUNT.

Every business has growing pains. Every business goes through changes. Smart businesses dynamically shift with changes, allowing such to create room for improvement, not stagnancy for stubbornness. Every business has small beginnings. Its how we build on those small beginnings that matters.

“You can be miserable; or you can be strong. The amount of work is the same.”

Wistful Wintering

7 SECRETS TO SUBDUING STRESS IN THE SEASON OF SELF-SABOTAGE

“Don’t forget: Drink water and get some sunlight. You’re basically a houseplant with more complicated emotions.”

Imagine you are a plant. You look strong and healthy, but you exist in harsh, demanding conditions. Your soil is dry, lacking nutrients, you haven’t been watered in a week or two, you need the right amount of sunlight, but instead are scorched or shaded. Your leaves are showing the effects of stress.

Are you feeling stressed? Probably. Like a houseplant, our body, mind, and heart are all affected by stress. Like drying, decaying leaves, we may be feeling the effects of our demanding conditions. Busy schedules, poor nutrition, lack of exercise, work and life tension, and, of course, a global pandemic, all put strain on our minds, hearts, and bodies. There is much we can do to combat this stress, strengthen ourselves and others in our families and communities.

PHYSICAL EFFECTS OF STRESS INCLUDE:

Low energy, headaches, stomach and GI issues, aches and pains, chest pain, rapid heartbeat, insomnia, frequent sickness.

According to webmd.com, 3 long-term effects of stress include heart attack, stroke, and hypertension. This is due to consistently elevated heart rate, blood pressure, and stress hormones. This also affects cholesterol levels and causes inflammation in the circulatory system.

7 TIPS ON COMBATING STRESS:

  1. REGULAR EXERCISE. It may seem contradictory, but a healthy elevated heart rate can actually lower a stressed elevated heart rate. Regular exercise lowers cortisol, releases pain-killing endorphins, and promotes more restful sleep and positivity. A nature walk can be especially calming and energizing.
  2. LOWER CAFFEINE/DRINK GREEN TEA. High caffeine intake increases anxiety and stress. And if you are a Luxury Latte Lover, this also means extra sugar and empty calories. The temporary benefits are also fueled with long lasting consequences. While coffee has some health benefits, like anything, needs to be kept in moderation. Contrarily, switching to green tea for a boost can actually lower stress and anxiety. It also improves brain function, increases fat loss, protects against cancer, and lowers the risk of heart disease.
  3. AROMATHERAPY. Scent has amazing power to help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. A nice non-toxic choice is diffusing essential oils in your home or car. Some nice stress and anxiety relieving options are: Lavender, Patchouli, Lemon, Grapefruit, and Vanilla. Tree oils such as Spruce, Pine, and Cedarwood can also be very grounding.
  4. MAKE LISTS/GRATITUDE JOURNALING. Writing a daily list of goals and chores helps to discharge stressful thoughts. Gratitude Journaling replaces negative thoughts with positive ones. Taking a few moments to express yourself on paper helps you to center yourself, and not impose your stress on those around you. Set goals and be reasonable with yourself and others. Ask for help when necessary.
  5. LEARN TO SAY NO. So much of life can make us feel out of control. Learn how to healthily take control of what you can change and what causes you stress. This can include unhealthy coping habits we may have developed as a crutch in dealing with stress. Take control of yourself. Take note of what makes you feel overwhelmed. Clutter, procrastination, and overextension of ourselves can leave us drained, anxious, and angry. Take action to declutter, hold yourself accountable to deadlines, and decline invitations or situations that may be more than you can handle at the moment.
  6. EATING SEASONALLY. Our bodies were designed to work in harmony with the earth. Our bodies require different needs each season. During Winter, we need extra Vitamin C to boost immunity. Eating seasonal citrus fruits helps ease stress by giving the body what it needs. Root vegetables, grains, and meat are also key to keep us warm and sustain our calorie-burning-shivering bodies. Search the internet for seasonal eating guides and recipes.
  7. KINDNESS, SENSE OF HUMOUR, AND CONNECTION. “We rise by lifting others.” Kindness, Humour, and Connection cost nothing and is some of the most powerful medication in coping with stress and anxiety. By caring for our mind, heart, and body, we not only strengthen ourselves for the inhospitalities of the season, but we also put a better version of ourselves into the world. Even in our challenge-filled climate, can we find ways to promote positivity, longevity, and compassion.

We are all struggling with something. Learning healthy coping skills not only reduces stress, but makes us better able to help others in need, as well as find a healthier existence in a stressful world. Like a houseplant, we need to nurture ourselves to benefit others around us. Neglecting the shifting needs of the season can leave us feeling brittle and withering. Learning to embrace change actually enables us to cope with it. After all, the earth does it every day.

A Balancing Act

Walking that fine line…

When we think of balance, perhaps we envisage a tight-rope walker, carefully shifting weight, balancing grit and artistry, calculating each movement, aware that any small miscarriage of judgment is followed by consequences. One definition of balance reads: a condition in which different elements are equal or in the correct proportions. A balancing act has been defined as: an action or activity that requires a delicate balance between different situations or requirements. It is evident that consequences are interlinked with balance.

At Grime Fighters it may well be said that balance is at the heart of everything we do. Balance is required when scheduling jobs so as not to burn out our hard working team. Balance was required when, for a time, certain work was deemed as hazardous because of the Pandemic. Balance is also needed when assessing if certain work could be damaging to your home or property, such as hazards to porous surfaces, landscaping, or areas in need of repair. Our team exercises balance by placing a high value on life and safety, exercising caution when potential harm could come to human or creature.

Like so many areas of life, it is in examining the elements or circumstances where we find what is required of us. For example, while house washing, one could take a very straightforward approach, simply focused on the end goal: a clean home, rid of all algae, destroying the microbiome of such environment. Not so, at Grime Fighters. While our team is focused on getting the job done, situations sometimes arise that warrant a more balanced approach: Respect for the larger biome of our environment. Our team carefully avoids harming precious life such as baby birds, butterfly chrysalis, the praying mantis, etcetera. It may take a few minutes more to finish the job, but it is these small, kind acts that demonstrate our core values. Keeping an eye on the bigger picture~ those elements which require us to take action~ is what sets us apart. Consequently, such attention to detail is also shown in the respect we show our customers. For it is in these smallest of justices that we choose to make the world a better place.

Planting Community Seeds…

“You cannot stop the death that comes in the winter nor the life that comes with the summer. You can contribute your intelligence and will to the intelligence and movement of a dynamic larger than you. You can plant the seed that will sprout in the spring. You can lay the foundation for a different winter to come after the summer that has yet to arrive. You can only do this for yourself.” -Gary Zukav

We readily acknowledge that we cannot control the dynamic of the changing seasons… how autumn softly lulls us into the sleep of winter. But we also acknowledge the dynamic of being a part of something bigger than us as individuals. At Grime Fighters, we recognize that we are part of a whole. Without our loyal customers, we could not contribute our intelligence and will into the dynamic of our community. And just as the seasons change, our customers’ needs change.

While freezing temperatures may temporarily limit the amount and type of work we do, we by no means stop working. During Winter, Grime Fighters is still working behind the scenes to provide for you, our customer, with improved quality and effort. This is an ideal time for us to ‘plant the seed’ for Spring, making repairs and improvements on our Rig and Equipment, utilizing our maintenance portal, to provide a systematic check for parts, readying our team for Spring.

As we approach the slow season of January, February, and March, we will have reduced cleanings. All outdoor work is weather and temperature dependent, working only above 37 degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore, bookings are made only one week in advance.

Work that can be scheduled during this time:

INTERIOR WINDOWS

CHANDELIER CLEANINGS

HOUSE WASH *above 37F

GUTTER CLEANING *above 37F

FLAT SURFACE CLEANING *above 37F

All Exterior Window Cleaning and Roof Cleaning will be postponed to Spring.

We wish to thank our community for a successful 2021 season! Thank you for your patience and persistence in these challenging times. We look forward to continuing our dynamic relationship together, improving and contributing to a better, cleaner community.

Harmful Habits and Savvy Spending

7 Tips To Keeping Your Head In A Spend-Frenzied Society.

“It costs money. It costs money because it saves money.” ~Cosmo Castorini, Moonstruck

Albeit comical, I honestly can’t count the number of times I have repeated this sage advice. Because the truth is, when you invest in quality, it generally outlasts the competition. But doesn’t spending money contradict the saving of it? Not necessarily.

Over the years we can find ourselves shackled to our debts, struggling to keep our heads above water in a ‘must have’ mentality society. Inflation has insulted the “quart of milk, loaf of bread, stick of butter” necessities of the Sesame Street generation. When confusion arises between our needs and our wants, we easily find ourselves in a compromising position. A rush of adrenaline and dopamine drugs us into the point-of-sale-panacea from the shuddering reality of practicality.

Savvy is defined as: shrewdness and practical knowledge; the ability to make good judgments. In a nutshell, that is what wise spending and saving money is all about: making good judgments. However, that can be a challenge, especially in an economic society obsessed with more. Finding balance means changing one’s viewpoint about spending…Changing from a ‘missingoutmentality to being in control. The following 7 TIPS highlight the balance between avoiding harmful habits while becoming a savvy spender.

  1. PAY OFF DEBTS. All of that accruing interest is stealing away your hard earned paycheck. Most financial/budgeting sites recommend paying off your debts from the least to the greatest. This enables you to apply your monthly payments toward larger debts.
  2. SPEND TO SAVE: Whether its utilities, trendy shoes, or car repairs, spending wisely can save hundreds or thousands. Winter demands a lot of energy expense. But to ignore winterizing your home to ‘save money’ could actually cost you more. Cost effective maintenance means you will get more from the energy you pay for. So don’t neglect cleaning your roof, windows, or siding. They all have an impact on energy efficiency. Seal cracks in doors and windows, insulate drafts, and use as much energy efficient lighting and appliances as possible.
  3. GET YOUR MONEY TO WORK FOR YOU. Reinvest your debt payments into savings or interest accruing options. Audit your current expenses and edit unnecessary recurring debits or subscriptions. Audit your home. Sell what you no longer use, love, or need. Employ one of the multitude of selling apps, most with features to sell locally for items too pricey to ship.
  4. AVOID FRIVOLOUS SPENDING. We all need R&R, but spending hundreds or thousands on vacation when you are trying to realize debt goals is not going to be the escape for which you are longing. Consider a budget-friendly STAYCATION focused on creating moments. The internet is full of suggestions for free or inexpensive activities, places, parks, and events.
  5. AVOID “POINT-OF-SALE”…or as I prefer to think of them…”PERVERSIONS-OF-SAVINGS.” You know, that impenetrable wall of things-you-didn’t-know-you-needed, but now, have to have, lining the checkout like a tunnel, pressing you into a do or die, NOW OR NEVER decision…AVOID THEM LIKE THE PLAGUE.
  6. ALWAYS PACK FOOD. Whether you are headed to work, running errands, or taking a daytrip, packing food and beverage will save hundreds over the course of the year. For example, a weekly latte at approximately $5 per person costs roughly $260/year. Whereas a $10 weekly vending machine habit or fast food habit =$520/year. If you’re one of those people whose blood sugar plummets after an errand or two, and needs to be rescued by, say a sandwich, a soda, and a candy bar…that sugar crash could be crushing your budget by $1,000/year or more. Shrewd grocery shopping prepares and prevents such losses of judgment and income. For example, a sliced apple and a cheese stick are totally portable and costs less than $2. Prepping snacks and lunches the night before makes for a smooth transition out the door.
  7. EVALUATE NEEDS VS. WANTS. Or, as stated on ramseysolutions.com, “Let your future needs be more important than your current wants.” Marketing is tricky. It employs our senses into tricking our subconscious out of reasonableness and into rationalization. Here’s a trick I use to combat losing my head over clever marketing: Make and carry a list of intentional purchases. Upon entering a store, take a moment of awareness: What do you see (bling), smell (perfume/scents), hear (music), feel (touch)? Your senses are being barraged in an effort to entice you to abandon your good judgment and impulse buy. NOW…STOP. THINK. REASON. And WAIT. Ask yourself, ‘If it isn’t on my list, do I really need it?’ Is there any harm in waiting 24 hours, 1 week, or longer? Most “needs” are fleeting and forgotten within 24 hours of leaving a store. But in the moment, our overstimulated brain responds to our sensory overload by looking to bond with a moment. Just be observant of your actual feelings, and the ones being subtly suggested to you.

Summing it up…

Grime Fighters knows you work hard for your money. Our marketing and pricing structure supports your needs, not our wants. That is why we DO NOT employ a ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL pricing convention. Our pricing structure is according to your individual home needs. We offer frequent promotions and discounts to coincide with the needs of the season. Each home is priced by size, amount, and type of work to be done. Our goal is to provide the best value of service, providing a long-term customer relationship, helping you get the most bang for your buck.

Happy Saving!

Algae and Altruism

Learning manners from microorganisms.

Over the last two years we’ve learned a lot about bacteria, viruses, and the spread of germs. We’ve learned how the simplest of actions, washing one’s hands with soap and water, helps to reduce and prevent the spread of germs. Ironically, the same principle applies to keeping your home’s exterior clean and algae free.

Algae grows by photosynthesis. Algae have been referred to as “the most important photosynthesizing organisms on earth.” While there are various types of Algae, they share a common structure which is unique in that they do not have roots or leaves. Because of this unique structure, they occupy various habitats which would normally be inhospitable to plants, including porous rocks such as sandstone and limestone. But algae does not work alone. Forming a symbiotic partnership with Fungus, it forms Lichen, which behave as a plant-like growth. Both provide a beneficial environment for the other, including an exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and protection, allowing the symbiotic whole to become strong and resistant, able to grow and thrive where it could not do so alone.

Fungus lives by decomposing and absorbing the organic material in which they grow. Algae, on the other hand, is a chlorophyll containing aquatic organism. This symbiosis allows the organism to reproduce, withstanding extremes of weather and light, resulting in acid-producing lichens capable of disintegrating rock and damaging to zinc and lead used in flashing or gutters.

What does this mean for homeowners? Since a variety of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoa, and algae are airborne, they can easily be spread from home to home. So just as proper handwashing can do much to prevent the spread of germs, viruses, and bacteria, so a PROFESSIONAL HOUSE WASH can protect your home from the spread of this insidious organism. While bacteria, fungi, and algae DO have an imperative function in our environment, they can also mean the slow destruction of your home. Just like disease, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Perhaps you have heard, or even repeated the adage, “Seeing is Believing”. The reality is that there are many environmental processes that occur which are unseen. However, we do see the effects. The symbiotic growth of algae and fungus may go unseen for a time, until it is all too evident. We’ve all seen a house or two, perhaps even in a row, smeared by the effects of the unseen.

So if your home is “sick”, your neighbour’s might be too. Why not take advantage of a special 15% DISCOUNT for a NEIGHBOUR REFERRAL HOUSEWASH. Partner with at least one neighbour to schedule a PROFESSIONAL HOUSE WASH to both receive the discount.

Darkness, Dirt, and Depression

How Dirty Windows Can Contribute to Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Exactly one month since the autumnal equinox, Latin for ‘equal nights’, and it has grown noticeably darker each evening. That sense of darkness will be even more impactful when the observance of DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME ends, this year on the 7th of November, 2021. We enjoy the ‘extra’ hour of sleep that evening, however the loss of that hour’s light affects our evening routine.

Decreased sunlight has a direct bearing on our mood. As it grows darker, our bodies produce less serotonin, the brain chemical that controls our mood. Melatonin production is also decreased, as it is produced in proportion to the light received by the retina, affecting our sleep patterns. This combination of factors has a direct bearing on our mood. This may result in loss of energy, lack of interest, oversleeping, and feelings of hopelessness: symptoms of SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER. However, there are simple solutions to combat these ‘winter blues’.

While we experience darker evenings, the time shift means an earlier sunrise. Taking advantage of that by rising early and making the most of the morning light can help us get a good start for the day. A daily walk in the sunshine and fresh air, even for as little as ten minutes can make a difference. But as most of us spend our days indoors, especially with so many now working-from-home, light exposure may be minimal. In fact, even our home’s efficiency is affected by the lack of sunlight. It is therefore imperative to maximize light and sun exposure for the next two months, until December 21st, when the winter solstice begins, and sunlight once again increases.

The most cost effective way to boost mood, boost light, and boost energy efficiency is to thoroughly wash windows and glass doors. Even a little bit of dirt or dust on windows can affect your home’s energy efficiency. According to one study, windows bear 2530% on home energy consumption. That means that dirty windows means less sunlight (heat) exposure, increasing energy consumption as your heating system works harder to heat your home. Therefore, clean windows, inside and outside, not only reduces your energy costs, it also allows more light to brighten your rooms and lift your spirits, boosting your mood, maximizing your use of energy.

Other helpful tips for boosting light include:

  1. Using mirrors to reflect natural light entering through windows.
  2. Using light colored paint on walls, light colored furnishings and floors, and adding reflective surfaces to help light bounce around the room.
  3. Add lighting. While skylights optimize sunlight, even adding lamps and other energy-efficient lighting can increase the brightness of dark days. Light Therapy (via Lightboxes) also helps to curb the effects of SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER, by tricking the eye, and therefore the brain, into receiving more light, boosting melatonin and serotonin production.

Banish the ‘Winter Blues’, take care of your home and your health by scheduling a Professional Window Cleaning, making your home clean, light, and bright.

Home Window Cleaning in Bethlehem, PA by Grime Fighters