Home Architecture: Tips For Choosing A Soundproof Window

Posted on March 4, 2020 by Krissyar


There are a lot of ways in which loud noises can impact our health. Not only is the constant rumble coming from the outside deafening and unpleasant, it also affects our sleep and can lead to hearing problems, as well as stress accumulation. Fortunately, there is something that can ease our pain and reduce the frequencies that infiltrate our houses.

When trying to make your home, office, or any other property as noise-proof as possible, you should look for a soundproof window option that works best, or a way to do this yourself on your existing frames. If you are searching for an easier solution which does not involve replacing your windows, then the best thing to do is to start a do-it-yourself project.

However, when you are redecorating your home for whatever reason, you might also want to take silence into consideration. Better yet, silence can be the reason you start redecorating at all. In any of these cases, do a proper research and get yourself a product that will allow you to get some peaceful and quiet time in your own home.

Soundproof Windows

One of the best options to make your house feel more like home and stop getting annoyed by all the outside fussing and buzzing is to install noise reduction windows. The market offers a wide variety of these products. However, having more choices means having a hard time to decide.

Generally, these difficulties in making a choice stem from one crucial classification. Namely, there are double glazed and triple glazed windows, and they have both proved to be a good soundproofing option. Therefore, these are the two types that you should pay attention to when deciding to shop for this crucial part of your property.

Double Glazed

So, let’s get started. In its simplest form, the term “double glazed” means that the window is constructed with two panes of glass. This is the most commonly used type on modern houses. Given the double glass, and thanks to the gap between the panes, these provide a good level of insulation. They are also known to be quite affordable.

More benefits of a double glazing: https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Double_glazing

When it comes to blocking the annoying noises, I suppose that you can make a conclusion on your own. Nevertheless, let me say a few words. It is only logical that two panes provide a better sound protection than a single pane. Due to that, this window type is one of the logical solutions for when you need to reduce the hustling and bustling sound frequencies that creep into your property and make it an unbearable living area.

So, what does this mean in terms of cost? Well, these types of windows can cost approximately between $800 and $1500 per square meter. Of course, this is a bit more expensive than the single pane, but for a good reason.

Triple Glazed

If you now know what double glazed windows are, could you possibly guess what being triple glazed means? Of course, it means that they are made of three panes. The gaps between can be filled with xenon, argon, or krypton. This helps keep the heat inside your house. These windows are also perfect energy savers. Here’s more info.

But, what does it all mean when it comes to soundproofing? Well, take another wild guess. If two panes make for a good noise redactor, could you only imagine what three panes can do? These are known as a splendid sound insulator. So, if you decide to use them, there is no doubt that you will enjoy some silent and tranquil days and nights in your home.

An extra pane of reinforced glass also means an extra gap to be filled with gas. Additionally, it also means some extra bucks. This wasn’t surprising, was it? With three rows of glass, you get additional protection and some more benefits, as well. So, it’s no wonder that it might cost more than the first option.

Which Is Better?

Given the above mentioned, one simple question pops into my head. Since there is more glass, more insulating gaps, and simply more room between you and the outside world, does all of that mean that triple glazed windows are better? Well, experts cannot seem to agree on this one.

Essentially, I would argue that the double glazed windows can be a good enough solution for your noise issues and that you might not need this extra layer of protection. But, there are some more factors to be taken into consideration when making this decision. Mainly, you want to look at the long term benefits. The second type might be more durable. So, if you are planning on living in a particular house for a long time without changing it, it might be a good idea to pay some extra cash and upgrade to triple glazed windows.

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Cheesy Ham and Cauliflower Casserole

Posted on February 27, 2020 by Krissyar

Another great and easy Keto recipe that your whole family will enjoy. These Keto Cheesy Ham & Cauliflower casserole is easy to make, and even easier to enjoy! This is a pretty popular dinner in our household,

Keto casseroles like the Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole are always a big hit since they are easier to make than some other recipes.

Is Cheesy Ham & Casserole Freezable?
It is actually! It should keep for a few weeks, or refrigerated for a few days.

Ingredients:
4 large eggs, beaten
1/2 a head of cauliflower, florets only
3 cups of shredded cheese, reserve a cup for the top
4 slices of pre-cooked ham, 1/2 inch thick and diced
2 cups of fresh spinach, sliced
1/2 medium-sized red onion, coarsely diced
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
ceramic baking dish

cheesy ham and cauliflower casserole

Directions:
Grease or oil a 9 inch round or square oven-safe dish that is about 2 1/2 inches deep.

Prepare all ingredient prior to making layers in the oven-safe dish. Place a layer of spinach on the bottom, followed by a layer of cauliflower florets, and a layer of onion.

Sprinkle 1 cup of the cheese over these layers and 1/2 of the spices.

Beat 2 of the eggs in a small bowl and pour evenly over this mixture.

Finally, place 1/2 of the diced ham on top.

Repeat the above steps to make a second layer.

Top the ham with the remaining cup of cheese and bake the casserole uncovered at 350 F for 30 minutes.

At the end of the cooking time, brown the top under a broiler for 2 to 3 minutes.

Watch this closely so you don’t burn the top.

Serve warm.

Makes 4 to 6 servings.

cheesy ham and cauliflower casserole

cheesy ham and cauliflower casserole

Cheesy Ham and Cauliflower Casserole

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 head cauliflower florets
  • 3 cups shredded cheese save 1 cup for top
  • 4 slices pre-cooked ham
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 red onion diced
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Method
 

  1. Grease or oil a 9 inch round or square oven-safe dish that is about 2 1/2 inches deep.
  2. Prepare all ingredient prior to making layers in the oven-safe dish. Place a layer of spinach on the bottom, followed by a layer of cauliflower florets, and a layer of onion
  3. Sprinkle 1 cup of the cheese over these layers and 1/2 of the spices.
  4. Beat 2 of the eggs in a small bowl and pour evenly over this mixture.
  5. Finally, place 1/2 of the diced ham on top.
  6. Repeat the above steps to make a second layer
  7. Top the ham with the remaining cup of cheese and bake the casserole uncovered at 350 F for 30 minutes
  8. At the end of the cooking time, brown the top under a broiler for 2 to 3 minutes.
  9. Watch this closely so you don't burn the top
  10. serve warm

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Keto Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Posted on February 14, 2020 by Krissyar

So last year I decided to take the plunge and buy an air fryer. It was one of the best decisions I have made. The kids and I have so much fun making different foods in the air fryer, and it’s been very beneficial for eating healthy. One of my favorite things to make is this Keto air fryer bacon wrapped asparagus. It’s delicious and doesn’t take too long to make one batch.

This can be a great snack, or go along with some grilled chicken or steak. My family loves asparagus, and of course bacon always helps =)

keto air fryer bacon wrapped asparagus

Ingredients:

  • 30 Spears of asparagus (1 bundle from the store)
  • 1 Tbsp. Olive oil
  • ½ tsp. Garlic powder
  • 2 Tbsp. Parmesan cheese grated
  • 5 Strips of bacon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees.
  2. Break the woody part of each stem off of the asparagus spears. 
  3. Place the asparagus into a mixing bowl, and add the olive oil, garlic powder, as well as salt and pepper to taste. Toss to combine well. 
  4. Separate the asparagus spears into 5 even bundles. 
  5. Wrap each bundle of asparagus around the bottom with a strip of bacon. 
  6. Cook the asparagus bundles for 8-12 minutes depending on the side of your spears and bundles. You want the bacon to start to be crispy and the spears to become tender. 
  7. Top the bundles with the Parmesan cheese and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes before serving. 

keto air fryer bacon wrapped asparagus

                                        If you liked this keto air fryer bacon wrapped asparagus recipe, be sure to check out our other Keto Recipes!

keto air fryer bacon wrapped asparagus

Keto Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 30 spears asparagus
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tbsp freshly grated mozzarella cheese
  • 5 pieces bacon
  • salt & pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees.
  2. Break the woody part of each stem off of the asparagus spears.
  3. Place the asparagus into a mixing bowl, and add the olive oil, garlic powder, as well as salt and pepper to taste. Toss to combine well.
  4. Separate the asparagus spears into 5 even bundles.
  5. Wrap each bundle of asparagus around the bottom with a strip of bacon.
  6. Cook the asparagus bundles for 8-12 minutes depending on the side of your spears and bundles. You want the bacon to start to be crispy and the spears to become tender.
  7. Top the bundles with the Parmesan cheese and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes before serving.
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Keto Bang Bang Cauliflower

Posted on February 13, 2020 by Krissyar

As I mentioned the one thing I have missed during our Keto journey is my takeout. For the most part I can order things with a Keto twist, like burgers without buns, wings (with bones) even pizza without the crust. But one food that I miss that has failed to come to the Keto-side is Asian food. So we’ve had to make our own Keto twist to some of our favorites, like our recipe last week for Keto Beef and Broccoli, and this weeks Keto Bang Bang Cauliflower!

keto bang bang cauliflower

Now you can sub the Cauliflower in this recipe for shrimp, or chicken if you prefer, but I do know quite a few Keto followers who prefer to go meatless when possible. The key is just to make sure the ‘breading’ and the sauce is Keto friendly, which is what this recipe does.

Ingredients: 

keto recipe

  • About ½ of a large head of cauliflower
  • 1 large egg 
  • 1 tbsp heavy cream
  • Fresh parsley finely chopped 
  • 1 cup superfine almond flour
  • 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese 

Bang Bang Sauce Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp chili paste
  • 1 tsp sriracha
  • 1 tbsp granular erythritol 
  • 1 tsp lime juice

Instructions: 

  • In a small bowl, whisk egg with heavy cream. Set aside.
  • In a medium size baking bowl whisk together almond flour and cheese. Set aside.
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 
  • Dip cauliflower in the egg wash. I put a few pieces in at a time and used a spoon to coat the cauliflower.  After it is fully coated, shake it a few times, to shake off any excess egg dripping back into the bowl before adding it to the breading.  You don’t want the egg dripping going into the breading since the moisture will cause the breading to clump and it will be harder to stick to the cauliflower.
  • Place the cauliflower piece into the bowl of breadcrumbs, use your fingers to apply a little pressure so the breading sticks to the cauliflower.
  • Once coated, set the cauliflower onto a clean baking sheet. Repeat with remaining cauliflower.
    keto recipe
  • To deep fry the cauliflower, pour cooking oil into a pot. When the oil reaches 350F, gently add a few pieces of breaded cauliflower, stir the cauliflower a few times to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pan. Cook until a deep golden brown. Remove cauliflower and place onto a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with remaining cauliflower.

To make the Bang Bang sauce

  • Add all sauce ingredients into a small bowl, whisking until smooth. Taste and adjust as needed. If you prefer less spicy you can use less sriracha.
  • Drizzle Keto Bang Bang sauce over cauliflower. I have found it’s better to drizzle the sauce over the cauliflower to prevent the breading from getting soft from the sauce. 
  • Garnish with parsley. Serve immediately.

keto bang bang cauliflower

 

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Best Parental Control App for Kids Phones: Our Pact

Posted on February 12, 2020 by Krissyar

What is the best parental control app for kids phones? I have talked before about internet safety, and how important it is with our kids. This is a problem that our parents never had to deal with. The constant access to literally almost anything is scary.  We have to protect our children from themselves, and also from the unknown dangers of the web. The best way I found to do this is with the best parental control app for your kids phone: like Our Pact

our pact app
.I know a lot of parents who have struggled with the right age and times to get their children a phone. With school events, sports practices, clubs, meetings and rehearsals its almost impossible for your child not to have a phone. But then there is the worry about inappropriate apps, websites, and the list goes on. That is why I love the Our Pact app; you can set boundaries and control the phone with the app, right from yours.

Create a Schedule

For each phone that you register, you can set up a usage schedule. For example if you have a teenager who you know would be on their phone half the night, you can block the phone during their bedtime, say from 10:30 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. If you have a younger child, and you want to limit them a bit more , say during homework or dinner time along with bedtime, you can do that as well. During the scheduled blocked times they will not have any access to their phone until the time is up, or you remove it.

Block Apps 

Smart phones can be convenient for many reasons; sometimes its easier to text your child you are on your way, or tell them they need to take out the trash versus calling. Its nice that they can access apps that can help them with homework, or Facetime their Grandma on her birthday. But if you do have certain apps you don’t want your child to have, you can block the app so they aren’t able to download or access it whatsoever.  You can also just block the app store, so once they have all the apps you have given permission for, they don’t have access to get anymore without your approval. (that gives you plenty of time to research any new app they might want, so you can decide if its appropriate).  You can also go in and block certain apps for certain times – if you prefer your child to have their phone accessible during school (like I do mine, hello, emergencies) you can block games or social media during those hours. Or maybe if they are under punishment (grounded) for something, and you still want them to have their phone to call for a ride, or for an emergency, you can block everything temporarily until you are ready to give it back to them (or they earned the privilege back) .

Screen Time Allowance

This is probably one of the top features; limiting screen time can help kids keep track of exactly how much time they are spending online. I find myself actually wasting hours of time scrolling through Facebook or Instagram – imagine how hard that is for a teenager? You can get lost in TikTok for hours and not even realize it! If you limit their time each day, when the time is out, it’s out! They will be much more aware of their day, and times online, and hopefully will learn to use it wisely.

Family Locator

Though we do use Life360 as a family, (for safety reasons) I do like that the app has family locator. You can also block your child’s ability to ‘turn off location’ (not that they would – but sometimes you gotta’ think ahead) and also God forbid, if the phone is lost or stolen, it’s a great way to find it.

Block Anything Now

Besides scheduling access and screen time, you also have the ability to just block the phone whenever you want. My favorite place that I used it? Church. My oldest has a tendency to try and listen and play on her phone at the same time; though I know its a “skill” if that’s what you want to call it, of the new generation, I do feel like kids need to learn when to keep the phone away. So instead of the whispering, pinching of the arm and nasty stares, just pull out your phone for a second, block theirs, and bam, it’s done.

A few questions I have had from friends and family who knew we were trying Our Pact out, so in case you were wondering?

Is it hard to install?

For iOS it kinda is. It took me several time to get it to finally work on Premium mode. (like downloads from the computer to the kids phone – this isn’t something you can do in a rush for sure) but overall, I’ve dealt with worse. As far as using it? Pretty simple and self explanatory definitely the best parental control app for your kids phones is our pact!

My kid is pretty sneaky; will they be able to remove it? 

Well it won’t be easy, but it is possible. However, if they do manage to you’ll get an alert on your app immediately letting you know so you can resolve the issue.

Can my kid turn it off?

That’s the nice thing – no they can’t.

Can I control it even if they aren’t around?

YES! You can be out and your kids at home, (or visa versa ) and if you need to block or add something you can, right from the parental control app on your phone!

How many devices can I use this on?

You can actually control up to 20 devices, which is pretty awesome. You can add their phones, tablets, iPads, etc.

How much is it?

Our Pact has 3 different plans to including a FREE one.
The free plan offers you one device, and one schedule. You can set screen times for sleep hours (or all day if you really wanted to) so at least there is that.

The $1.99 per month plan allows you to control 10 devices. You can set unlimited schedules, access to unlimited blocks, etc.

The $6.99 plan allows you to control 20 devices. Unlimited schedule, blocks, grants, block and allow specific apps, set screen time limits, block texts, and use the family locator.

Hands down, Our Pact is the best parental control app for kids phones. Plenty of access, without invading too much of their privacy, giving you peace of mind.

 

 

 

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