Business Insurance : Things to Know before picking one

Business insurance is a type of insurance that can cover many different things depending on what coverage type you purchase. Business insurance is exclusively offered to those who own a business, whether a small business or a chain store. This type of insurance protects a company or business from sustaining operational losses.

Business insurance offers many different types of coverage options, a few of the most common of which we will introduce in a moment. Whether you need a comprehensive insurance policy or just general liability insurance for your business,  business insurance is the best option for you.

How Do I Find the Best Insurance Coverage for My Company?

Obtaining the appropriate business insurance may seem like a daunting and debilitating task, however, it can be made quite simple by hiring an insurance broker. An insurance broker is a person whose only job is to help you find and purchase the correct type of insurance from the right company for your purposes.

Once you have decided which type of coverage you need for your business insurance, these brokers can help you to decide which company has the best coverage policy for your needs. Try to find an insurance company with a building near you, for example, if you live in Sacramento California, you will want to find a Sacramento Insurance company.

When looking for an insurance broker make sure they have high reviews, the last thing you want for your company is to get screwed out of the insurance you need because the broker you went through was inefficient.

Once you have chosen your preferred insurance broker I highly suggest you set up a meeting with them to see how they handle their business. If you feel uncomfortable with how they are handling things, move on. There are plenty of insurance brokers out there, more than enough to find one that handles their business in a way that meshes with your ideals.

Why Do I Need Business Insurance?

In modern-day, there are a lot of factors that can cause a business to close its doors for good. Many of these factors are small problems that can be dealt with and covered by the most basic forms of business insurance.

Having insurance placed on your business can save you a lot of money in the long run, and help your business run smoother and with fewer complications. This, in turn, helps your business save money and also increase the confidence of your staff by helping their job become more secure.

What Types of Business Insurance Can I Get?

As mentioned earlier, there are many different types of coverage options only a few of the most common will we cover here. It is important to keep in mind a few things when selecting a coverage option, such as ‘What do I foresee being a problem within my company?’, ‘What are common problems with other businesses selling products or services similar to what my business offers?’, and ‘What other factors may play a part in the success or failure of my business?’.

For example, if one of the problems you see in your business's future is that one of your key business partners or one of the other main owners of your business has a possibly terminal illness or participates in a line of work or leisure activities that may cause them to become seriously injured or deceased. In the event that this is true of your company, it is wise of you to obtain Key Person Insurance.

Key Person Insurance Coverage

Key Person Insurance is a type of business insurance that supplies benefits to your business or company in the event that the key person insured were to sustain an injury that prevents them from working, or if said key person were to die. The benefits issued would only be used for legitimate business expenses.

This insurance is a must if you or one of your business partners is terminally ill or has a habit of engaging in dangerous hobbyist activities. In the event that you chose not to purchase this type of coverage option and the person you would have insured were to fall under the conditions mentioned above, your company would have sustained a debilitating loss that is the cause of many other start-up businesses closing down.

 

General Liability Insurance Coverage

General liability insurance coverage is a must-have for almost all businesses. What this type of coverage offers is protection against one of the most common causes of business closure, liability issues. Protecting the covered business against liability claims, claims of negligence, manufacturing or worker error, bodily injury within the company, and property damage are the main things that this type of policy covers.

If one of the events mentioned above were to occur and the liability or event was covered by your insurance policy then the insurance would cover the policyholder's legal fees involved with that event.

These types of liability issues can really put a drain on the business’s or company’s funds and cause that company or business to go downhill, not only in the minds of their potential clients but also financially. There is only so much loss a company or business can sustain before they have to shut down.

Even if you can’t foresee liability issues as a potential problem for your company, you will still want this type of coverage policy.

Product liability insurance coverage

Product liability insurance coverage is a very important type of coverage option if your business offers products and not services, or products along with their services. This type of coverage is ideal for those who sell products that could potentially cause harm to a person, whether it is because of the intended use or because a product was made faultily.

Keep in mind when deciding if you need this insurance policy that according to insurancejournal.com four out of ten businesses will face a property or general liability claim within the next ten years. The best way to ensure that these claims least affect your company or business is by purchasing general liability insurance coverage.

How Will I Know Which Policy I Need?

Each business has its own insurance needs and wants. It is really up to the company or business being insured what type of insurance they should get. Each business is unique and therefore requires a unique set of insurance policies. It is unethical to umbrella a business type to one type of coverage as it really depends on what the business owners find that they want and need for their business's insurance coverage.

Sometimes a business owner may find that they only need one or two of the policies mentioned above and/or another type of business insurance policy, whereas other times a business will find that their coverage needs to be more umbrella-like, covering almost anything that could happen or any claim that could be made to or against their business.

If you find that you have no idea what type of coverage you want you should consult your insurance broker, they will help you to decide which types of coverage your business is most likely to need, and which types of coverage may be wanted due to your location.

Earthquake insurance

This type of insurance may have never crossed your mind, but it is in fact very necessary insurance in many parts of the world. Even just in the USA, many states fall on top of fault lines or areas where seismic activity is highly likely to occur. If your business location falls on or even relatively near where a fault line lies you will want to get earthquake insurance.

I know you may be thinking, “How likely is it really, that my business will obtain earthquake damage?” The answer, more likely than you would think. Damage incurred from earthquakes has been found in all 50 states even though there are only 39 states with major risks for earthquakes.

Even if you start your business without earthquake insurance coverage, it is a good idea to obtain it before it is too late. Earthquake damage can cause a business to permanently shut down when the cost of the damage is more than the amount able to be used to repair said damage.

Flood insurance

Another type of insurance you may want to consider is flood insurance. Whether your business sits near a body of water or the area your business is located in has frequent flash floods, you will want to consider this coverage option.

Water damage can cost thousands or millions of dollars in not only repair costs but also revenue loss. Once your business has sustained so much water damage you WILL have to shut down for repairs, and even if the repair costs don’t add up to your business closing, you have to keep in mind the amount of sales loss you have incurred while your doors are closed.

Most companies do have a fallback, whether that be money the owners have set aside as an out of pocket protection or surplus money earned by the business that didn’t go right back into buying more product or financing the staff's payroll. However, these fallback options only cover as much as they are worth and withdrawing from these fallback funds has it’s negative effects as well.

If you withdraw from your fallback money you no longer have that money, whereas with an insurance policy they cover each disaster as its own event and cover a set amount for each claim. By doing this you will only have to pay what is left over after your coverage kicks in. This could save you many thousands of dollars in the long run.

If you choose not to purchase this type of insurance you must be prepared for the chance that you will not only sustain water damage once but possibly hundreds of times in a single year. It is entirely possible that your business even with flood insurance will end up with too much water damage for you to continue this business profitably. However, if you have flood insurance this event is much less likely to occur. Keep that in mind when deciding whether or not to get this type of coverage.

Key Points to Remember

1.)   Most business insurance policies do not cover damage done by natural disasters. What this means for you is that you will have to purchase another insurance policy for natural disaster coverage. Again, there are many different coverage options for natural disasters and which ones you should get really depend on your location.

2.)   Without the appropriate type(s) of insurance coverage, your business could fail in a matter of weeks. It is very important that you consult with your insurance broker on what you need and want in your coverage. Failing to do so could result in significant profit loss that could have been otherwise avoided.

3.)   If you feel like you need it, talk with your broker about it. Insurance brokers are knowledgeable about all types of insurance policies and coverage options. If you feel like your business may need a specific type of coverage talk with your broker about it and see which options may cover the things you are worried about without forcing you to buy coverage you don't need or even want.

4.)   When in doubt, go for more coverage. If your business is located in an area where most types of insurance are necessary, it is usually better, in the long run, to pay more for the extra coverage and not end up needing it, although more times than not you will end up needing most of the coverage you have purchased. Remember even if part of your coverage goes unneeded for a while you may need it later. It is important to note, your coverage may not be in use for a while and then one day, seemingly out of the blue, you need it more than ever before.

Toils of a Tired Landlord: How to Leave the Rent Business

For a lot of people, getting into the real estate industry seems like a fast and easy money making opportunity. Buy a bit of property, rent it out to people that need a place to live, and boom, instant profit. Unfortunately, it isn’t that easy, and there are a lot of problems landlords face that can cause a lot of headaches.

Problem Properties

For starters if you aren’t much of a DIY person, then issues with the property can be extremely expensive. For those of you that don’t know, DIY means “do it yourself”. Some people are great with their handiwork and can flip a fixer upper home for a profit. But if a pipe bursts on your property, or the roof needs to be redone, or any other number of household woes need repairing, it costs a lot of money to fix if you don’t know how to do it yourself. Maintenance expenses can really eat into your profit margin, which is a major issue that most landlords don’t see coming. Every time you have to repair a hole in the wall or replace an old or faulty appliance, that’s just more cash out of your wallet.

Not to mention the amount of time and stress that it takes to maintain a house, let alone several houses. Say you are a jack of all trades DIYer, that’s fantastic, but it can take days, even weeks for one household project. And that’s if it goes smoothly. All that time could be better spent elsewhere, perhaps even more profitable to you. If you aren’t trade-inclined, then hiring a handyman doesn’t just cost money, but it also takes up your time having to oversee a project is being done correctly and on time and can create unnecessary stress if not.

Tenant Terrors

None of these previously mentioned problems even touches on the idea of tenants. Let’s be real here, sometimes (most of the time), people are the worst. And there’s just something about renting a house that attracts the most annoying kind of people. Not only are you trusting these complete strangers to not totally destroy the house, but you’re also hoping that they’ll pay their rent on time and in full. Keep in mind that this rent money is your profit, and if you don’t get paid on time,it can be really stressful. Not to mention tenants that just never pay. Or tenants that do wreck the house and cause lots of expensive damage. It all can fall apart very quickly.

Some of the more severe cases of tenant disputes include people just being awful. Maybe you’ve specified that no pets are allowed on the property, but the tenants don’t care of tried sneakily bring their dog to live with them. Said dog has now caused damage to the property, costing you time and money to fix it. Now you’re in an argument with the tenants because “what kind of heartless person bans dogs?” Unnecessary stress. What happens if your tenants engage in illegal activities on your property? Maybe they sell drugs or have turned the property into a Cannabis farm (it happens!).

So what can you do?

The point is, tenants can be horrible people and being a landlord is one of the most stressful and time consuming jobs on the planet. If any of the problems i’ve mentioned in this post have happened to you, and you’re now starting to feel doomed to a life of stress and terrible tenants, fear not! You have options!

Maybe you’ve been in the real estate game or bought property to rent out on an impulse and are having second thoughts. The easiest way to get out of the stress and hassle of being a landlord is to sell the property. Maybe you’ve fixed up the property and are nervous about tenants messing it up again. Why not capitalize on your work and just sell outright? You can sell your house as is with little to no hassle and without needing an agent! Selling to a home buying company is the simplest, most stress-free option for ridding yourself of worrisome tenants and problem properties.

If you’re a tired landlord, then let us take the that trouble property burden off your shoulders. Don’t hesitate; act now and contact us for a free home offer!

Starting Out as an IT Freelancer

Starting out any freelance career can be incredibly daunting, yet very exciting. Freelance is a fast and easy way to earn an income from your own home, or anywhere else in the world. Like any career option, freelancing has both benefits as well as let downs. IT freelancers can have an even tougher time getting started. But rest assured it is possible! There are a few things to consider before getting started.

Why freelance?

Freelance work is a great option to earn some extra income to pay off date or build up your savings. This can be done either on the side of your current job or you can make freelancing your full time career.  It’s affordable to start and all you have to do is find your first client to start earning an income. IT is an incredibly marketable skill to have and there are plenty of businesses and individuals who will want to use your skill set. What’s more, freelance IT will give you greater independence to choose the projects you want to work on and the employers that you want to work for. With a marketable skill with high demand, you can be on your way to your own freelance IT business.

Downsides and Challenges

As free and easy as a freelance job sounds, it does come with a few downsides. First of all, any freelance business can take some time to build up to generate a full time income. A beginning freelancer usually doesn’t get paid very much right away; it takes time to build a rapport and a network of clients. But don’t let this put you off. Lots of start up businesses take time to generate profit. Stick it out and you’ll be sure to start making an income.

Another downside of freelance work is the irregularity of jobs. Again, starting out can make work really slow and erratic. The key to overcoming this is networking. Put your business out there as much as possible and try to connect with your target market. I’ll explain how to do this a little later on.

Finally, once business does start picking up and you have a growing clientele, it’s important to keep all your clients as organized as possible. Time management is critical to staying on top of your projects and meeting deadlines.

Special IT Challenges

As an IT freelancer, there are more specific challenges that you’ll face throughout your career. If you already have experience in the IT field, then you’re familiar with the negative stigma surrounding the IT community. Most people have a very limited knowledge of IT, if any knowledge at all. As a result, a lot of employers don’t see the need or the potential profits to be had from having an IT department.

This of course extends to freelance IT professionals, even on a worse level. There is an added negative view towards freelance IT consultants that are brought into a permanent team. The best way to handle this is to educate others about IT and its benefits, simplify in terms that are easy for everyone to understand, and keep all communication lines open so people can ask questions.

The IT field is an incredibly dynamic area of study. With the constant technological advancements, it can be hard to keep up if you’re on your own. The lack of resources available to a freelancer can make it even more difficult to keep up. To keep from falling behind, it’s a good idea to participate in webinars and join online forums so you can keep up with the latest trends.

Non-negotiable agreements can be especially tricky for freelance IT workers. For one thing, future job opportunities could be complicated by past contracts. Furthermore, freelancers could lose ownership of their own work products and projects without sufficient compensation. As you build your business, the contracts will continue to accumulate, and quickly. It’s really important to keep track of everything you sign, or alternatively hire a lawyer to look over your contracts and agreements.

Finally, freelance work is typically done remotely, meaning face-to-face contact is pretty rare. This can make it harder for clients to buy into your business, particularly if they’re already skeptical of the IT industry. A good way to generate client buy in is to try and factor in some onsite travel. As your business expands to take on bigger clients, it’s a good idea to get some facetime with potential employers. This will also make it easier to speak to your clients in order to manage expectations and discuss project details.

Getting Started

Knowing the potential difficulties of a freelance IT business will help you be prepared for whatever your freelance journey throws at you. You will be able to solve any problems that arise so long as you know how to handle any challenges that present themselves.

To get your IT business started, you’ll need a few things. First of all, you need a business plan. Whether or not you’re running an official home business, a good plan will help you organize your thoughts to determine what services you want to offer and at what prices.

The other thing you need to have set up is a way for potential clients to find out about your business. You’ll want to set up a website that includes info about your business, what you’re offering and for what rates. You also may want to provide a section with your contact details so that clients can reach you for potential projects.

Another way to put your business out there and build up a client network is through social media. Facebooks pages are good to start out with, Twitter and Instagram pages are great methods of marketing too. LinkedIn is a much more professional option; it’s an online resume that connects you to other members of your industry as well as potential clients.

Getting into freelance work can be really tough, but it’s not impossible! As long as you’re aware of any potential challenges, then you can have a plan to overcome everything and be successful. Remember to pursue every networking opportunity and keep on top of your time management.

Subscribe to our email list and let us help you get your freelance business off the ground. Good luck!

How to Avoid the Afternoon Slump with these Lunch Ideas

Lack of energy in the second half of the day can really take a toll on your and your job performance. Poor performance in the workplace can lead to trouble for you, and we don’t want that. The afternoon slump can be a real killer, but maintaining a balanced diet of proteins and complex carbohydrates is a great way to beat the slump and stay energized and productive.

Why do we get an afternoon slump?

If you work a standard 9 to 5 job, then I’m sure you’re familiar with that energy crash that hits you around 2 in the afternoon: the dreaded afternoon slump. This is a totally normal occurrence, and it’s affected by a few factors.

First of all, if you aren’t getting enough sleep at night, then this is one reason you don’t have enough energy to last you the day. A quality full night sleep is crucial to having enough energy to get through the day. If you sit at a desk, then the stillness will make your body feel even more sleepy. So take every opportunity to get up and stretch your legs. Suggest having a walking meeting; there’s no need to sit to talk, get up and move! Or you could try desk yoga; stretching out will get your blood flowing and make you feel more alert.

Diet also has a big impact on our energy levels. That afternoon nap feeling hits really ever after we’ve eaten, and there’s a few reasons for this. If you eat foods that are heavy with carbohydrates, it won’t take long until you feel sleepy again. Foods with simple carbs like white bread, regular pasta, and white rice give you energy for a little bit by spiking your blood sugar, but then later you crash, making you feel sluggish and fatigued.

Replace these simple carbs with complex ones like whole grain bread and whole wheat pasta. Protein packed foods like lean meats, eggs, and cheese are also good for keeping energy levels up. These foods will keep you fuller for longer and have a slow burning energy so you don’t fall prey to the afternoon slump!

Easy and tasty lunch ideas to feel good all day long

Caprese Chicken Bowls

Caprese is one of my favorite dishes, and with the addition of the chicken and quinoa, this meal prep with keep you feeling full and energetic to beat the afternoon slump. Here’s what you need to make this lunch:

●     ¾ cup uncooked quinoa

●     1 tablespoon olive oil

●     1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

●     2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

●     Salt & pepper

●     3 cups cherry tomatoes cut in half

●     1 bunch of basil leaves removed from stem

●     1 cup baby bocconcini

Start by cooking the quinoa according to the instructions on the package, then divide it up into your meal prep containers. Preheat your oven to 425°F. While the oven heats up, toss your chicken breasts in the olive oil and balsamic vinegar, seasoning with salt and pepper. Bake the chicken for 22 minutes, or until cooked through.

While the chicken is baking, you can prepare the dressing. You will need:

●     3 tablespoons olive oil

●     3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

●     1 tablespoon maple syrup

●     ¼ tablespoon dijon

●     Salt & pepper

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and separate into small containers to keep your lunches from getting soggy.

When the chicken is finished, cut into strips and divide into your daily lunch boxes along with the cherry tomatoes and bocconcini. Keep the basil separate for a fresh garnish every day, as well as the dressing. This recipe is good for four services, and only takes about half an hour to prepare!

Chicken and Avocado Burritos

I love a good mexican dish, and these burritos stuffed with chicken and avocados are a filling and refreshing meal. To make this dish you will need:

●     4 large tortillas (use whole wheat for a healthier lunch!)

●     1 pound cooked chicken, sliced or shredded

●     1 avocado, diced

●     1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (go for the low fat!)

●     ¼ salsa verde

●     ¼ cup sour cream (low fat or fat free, or swap for greek yogurt!)

●     2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped

Just use these ingredients to build your burrito, being careful not to overstuff. I prefer to cook my chicken in a little bit of coconut oil and season with cumin and chili powder, but play around with flavors that you like. If you happen to have a small grill or panini press in your office, toast your burritos for some extra crunch and gooey cheese.

One-Pan Teriyaki Salmon

This is a really tasty salmon lunch that is packed the flavor and lots of protein. Salmon is a really great healthy meat choice, but if you don’t like fish that you can swap chicken instead. To make this you will need:

●     2 cups broccoli florets

●     2 cups carrots, sliced

●     2 tablespoons olive oil

●     Salt & pepper

●     2 boneless salmon filets

●     ¾ cup brown sugar

●     3 tablespoons soy sauce

●     ½ cup honey

●     2 tablespoons sesame seeds

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Combine broccoli, carrots, oil, salt and pepper on a baking sheet. Make sure the veggies are evenly coated and arrange in a single layer in the middle of the tray. Lay the two salmon filets on top.

In a small bowl combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, and sesame seeds to make the teriyaki sauce. Be sure to mix out all the lumps, and then spoon the glaze over the salmon, reserving a little for sauce. Bake for 12 minutes. When the salmon comes out, spoon the rest of the glaze over for extra flavor. This is enough for two servings; double the recipe for a four day prep. Enjoy!

Spicy Chicken Meal Prep Bowls

Nothing wakes you up like a good kick of spice. This chicken meal prep is low carb and keto friendly! Here’s what you need:

●     4 chicken breasts

●     3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

●     1 tablespoon dried thyme

●     1 teaspoon paprika

●     1 teaspoon onion powder

●     ¼ teaspoon ground coriander

●     ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper

●     Salt & pepper

●     2 cups broccoli florets

●     3 cups green beans, chopped

●     1 cauliflower

●     ½ clove garlic

●     1 teaspoon butter

●     1 teaspoon mayo

Preheat your oven to 450°F. Toss the chicken breasts in the olive oil, thyme, paprika, onion powder, coriander, crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast in the oven for 15 minutes.

Mix the veggies in with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add to the chicken after 15 minutes, spread in an even layer, and roast for another 10 minutes.

While the chicken and veggies roast, prepare the mashed cauliflower. If you’re short on time, you can buy riced cauliflower usually in the frozen section of any supermarket. But if you want to make your own, here’s how.

Bring 2 cups of water to a boil, then add the cauliflower florets to steam for 6 to 8 minutes. Remove from heat, uncover, and let cool for 5 minutes. Then blend the cauliflower and garlic until smooth. Transfer to a bowl and add the butter and mayo, using salt and pepper to taste.

When everything is finished, divide into four lunch containers and enjoy your lunch for the next week!

The Top 3 Fitness Trackers for any Budget type

In the fitness craze of today’s society, it can be really hard to keep up with all your health statistics. Counting calories is a chore, and remembering how much sleep you’ve been getting is difficult. That’s why fitness trackers are so handy! There are so many options out there for both style and functionality, not to mention a wide range in prices. Here’s a little bit of information to help you make the best choice for your needs.

What to Look for in a Good Fitness Tracker

People have thousands of different methods to keep themselves fit and healthy, so it’s no mystery why there are so many different kinds of fitness trackers to choose from. Swimmers would need a tracker that’s waterproof, whereas runners might not be concerned about waterproofing but would want a GPS to track their average pace on a run.

There’re also the styling aspects. Most fitness trackers come as a band on your arm, and that’s probably the most convenient. Some bands also function as watches, others do not. Some bands are really clunky, while others are very sleek. These options are merely matters of opinion, but I would lean towards something sleek and modern that doesn’t draw much attention.

As far as functionality, I would recommend a fitness tracker with a long battery life that’s at least water resistant or splash proof. A good fitness tracker will have a variety of functions such as sleep tracking, heart rate monitoring, and step counting. Really good fitness trackers will go even further, allowing you to log your dietary habits and maybe even logging the calories your burn.

Most fitness trackers will sync to your phone and some even give you call and text notifications. Others have a social component, allowing you to share your fitness stats with your friends for a bit of healthy competition.

The price of fitness trackers varies depending on what they offer. Here are the top picks in three different price categories: cheap, mid-range, and top of the line.

Don’t Want to Break the Bank? Here’s the Cheap Option

The Apirka Activity Tracker Watch is arguably the most bang for your buck. For only $35.99 this sleek fitness tracker watch comes in five band color options and has a lot to offer for health monitoring. The Apirka Activity Tracker Watch will track your daily steps, calories, distance, and activity duration. It also has different activity modes: walking, running, hiking, and cycling. These modes allow you to track your exercise intensity. This tracker will also not only track your sleep and analyze your sleep quality, it will also work as an alarm clock, waking it up it’s wearer with vibration.

Finally, the Apirka offers something that most other trackers in this price range won’t: smartphone notifications. This tracker will not only notify you of any incoming calls or texts, but you can also answer and read! The watch supports Facebook, WhatsApp, Skype, and Twitter, so you’ll never be unreachable.

If You a Bit More Wiggle Room, Here’s the Mid-Range Option

For just a bit more money, you can get the Fitbit Charge 2 Heart Rate + Fitness Wristband. Setting you back about $120, depending on the band you choose, this tracker also features a very sleek, low-key design. The tracker is splash proof, so you don’t have to worry about wearing it the rain, but you wouldn’t want to take it for a swim. This Fitbit will track your heart rate and measure your daily calorie burning. It also features a GPS software so you can track your distance and pace on your morning runs. The Fitbit Charge 2 also connects to your smartphone so that you can receive calls and texts while you get fit.

Looking to Splash Some Cash? Here’s the Expensive Option

The top of the line for fitness tracker bands is the Garmin Forerunner 935 Running GPS Unit. For $421.01 the Garmin is smartphone compatible and offers detailed analyses of several kinds of exercise including running, cycling, and swimming. It also features a barometer, altimeter, and compass so that hikers can keep their bearings during explorations.

Each of these trackers have something different to offer and they’re definitely the best of their price categories. Do your research and determine what your fitness needs are before making any investment into a fitness tracker. Once you’ve decided what you’re looking for, your health and fitness will improve and enhance as you’re able to track and analyze your daily activity. Get fit!

The Best Box Spring Mattress for the Best Sleep

If you get the medically recommended eight hours of sleep each night, then you’ll spend one third of your life sound asleep. To put it in perspective, if you live to be 75 years old, a total of 25 years of your life will be spent asleep. That’s a lot of time! Since we need sleep, and we spend so much time sleeping, you’ll want to make sure that it’s the best quality.

But how do you make sure it’s the best? Well a good place to start is by making sure that the place you sleep is best suited for you and your needs. That’s right, your bed has everything to do with the quality of sleep you’re getting. Choosing the right bed for you can be a really daunting task. There are so many types of mattresses made with so many types of material. Plus, the prices can really put people off, but quality should never be a compromise.

And that’s just mattresses! You probably haven’t even considered what you’re going to put your mattress on. Most people don’t realize just how much impact the base of your bed has on your body and your quality of sleep. So let me be the one to tell you, it definitely matters.

That’s why I’m going to tell you everything you need to know about a box spring mattress. I’ll give you the complete guide of what they are, what they do, and how they stack up to the other bases on the market like bed frames and platforms. So let’s get started with the basics.

What is a Box Spring?

A box spring isn’t a mattress, like most people tend to think. It’s actually a bed base that a mattress goes on top of, like a bed frame. Typically, a box spring consists of a wooden frame filled with springs and covered in fabric.

The main purpose of a box spring is to add height to a bed. A standard box spring is nine inches high, but lower five-inch box springs are available if you only want a little bit of extra height. The five-inch model provides just as much support and has the same level of durability as the nine inch, so if the nine is too high for you, don’t worry about having to compromise on support.

It is important to know that height is purely for aesthetics, it really doesn’t have any impact on the quality of your night’s sleep. That said, if you happen to be a bit taller, you might want to go for a standard nine-inch box spring set on top of a bed frame. Those on the smaller side might choose a five inch instead, or skip a frame and just place a standard box spring on the floor.

Box Spring Vs Platform

A platform bed is a raised wooden frame that has wood slats going across the frame which you slide a mattress on. A platform actually offers less height than just a box spring alone does, but it does give a little bit of open space underneath. Platform beds are compatible and suitable for any mattress be it foam, latex, or innerspring.

Do I Need a Bed Frame?

You don’t need to have a bed frame if you’re using a box spring, but it can add even more height if used together. If you do decide to use them together, then the box spring needs to fit the frame tightly to ensure proper grip, support, and comfort.

And an added benefit of using the bed frame and box spring combo is the additional space it creates in a room. The area underneath the frame offers a space for extra storage, or to just give the illusion of open airiness in a bedroom. All this additional space comes without sacrificing extra support and comfort in your sleep!

How to Size

Box springs are sized like mattresses and this is because they have to be the same size as the mattress they’re supporting in order to work properly and be comfortable to sleep on. For those that don’t know, mattresses are generally split into six sizes.

The smallest is a twin, which is 39 inches by 75 inches, suitable for kids. Some places make a longer version of a twin, called a twin XL which is more suited to taller teenagers. The next size up is a double, sometimes called a full mattress. This one is 54 inches by 75 inches, suitable for couples sharing a smaller room. A queen mattress is the next size 60 inches by 80 inches and is also great for couples who want a bit more space and have larger bedrooms.

The pinnacle of luxury mattresses however goes to the king mattress. At a whopping 76 inches by 80 inches, the king mattress will comfortable sleep a couple without being anywhere near touching each other. Obviously the size is massive so you’ll want to be sure that you have the space in your bedroom for this monster mattress. But it gets bigger. If you or your partner is on the taller side, the California king is the mattress march for you. At 72 inches by 84 inches, this mattress takes four inches of width and puts it into the length, allowing sleepers to really stretch the legs.

Wood vs Metal Springs

Most box springs are typically made with wooden springs that are reinforced with steel. This make is better quality, but tends to be the pricier option. If you’re looking to put a little less strain on your wallet, then you can spring (pun definitely intended) for metal springs.

Metal springs are the cheaper option, but that does mean you get what you pay for. Metal springs offer a lot less support and are less durable than their wooden competition. These type of springs are also really bad for foam mattresses. The compression of the foam into the springs when the bed is being laid on causes the foam to become misshapen. Continued use and compression overtime is really bad for the mattress and will cause to be less comfortable, less supportive, and just ruined in general.

Should I Go Split or Standard?

There are two types of box springs on the market. The first is a standard box spring which comes in one piece, just like a mattress. Standard box springs slide straight across a bed frame and does not require any additional supports. However, box springs are much more stiff and sturdy than a mattress, meaning it won’t squish down to fit through narrow halls or doorways. Since they aren’t pliable, standard box springs can be really difficult to move and install.

To address this issue, the other type of box spring is a split box spring. Just like the name suggests, this box spring is split down the middle into two pieces. The two pieces are much easier to move, but since they aren’t connected they have less support in the center. Because of the lack of support, you’ll need a bed frame that will provide the additional support down the middle. This will ensure that your sleep is better and properly supported and thus will be more comfortable.

What Mattress is Best for a Box Spring

As you may or may not have guessed by now, the type of mattress that you put on your box spring base is very important. The box spring was designed to support an innerspring mattress. Unlike foam and latex mattresses, this type of mattress uses a steel coil support system. The coil system is then wrapped in padding or other materials to make it comfortable to lie on. Innerspring mattresses are the most common and popular type of mattress sold, and they’re also a cheaper option compared to memory foam or latex mattresses.

Innerspring mattresses provide less contour and pressure point relief than foam or latex, but that varies on the types of materials used in the different layers of the mattress. Since they offer less contour, this means that innerspring mattresses are fimer, which is good for stiff sleepers. And good news for hot sleepers, innerspring mattresses retain less heat than other kinds of mattresses and don’t restrict airflow as much as foam mattresses do, meaning you’re in for a cool night.

Coil Type

The type of coils used in these mattresses vary, and can have an impact on support, comfort, and price. Bonnell coils are the oldest type of coils used in innerspring mattresses. This type of coil offers really high levels of compression, meaning it feels a little bit softer than other coils. They’re also the cheapest coil option on the innerspring mattress market.

Offset coils are a more expensive option, but offer more durability than Bonnell coils. There are a couple types of offset coils. Double offset coils are all linked together and offer a greater amount of support. Free arm offset coils are the opposite, as they are not joined to any other coils, meaning they’re less supportive.

Continuous wire coils are the most resilient type of coils and they offer the lowest amount of contour. This means they have less give and are firmer, which can be great for sleepers with bad backs.

Last but certainly not least are pocket coils. Sometimes referred to as Marshall coils or encased coils, pocket coils are individually wrapped in a pocket of cloth meaning the coils compress independently of each other. These coils provide the best contour and are great for pressure point relief. However, due to the nature of the thin steel used to make the coil, these coils have a relatively short life span when compared to the other types of coils, and they’re also the priciest option.

When talking about coils, there are a few key phrases that mattress shoppers need to know. Gauge refers to the thickness of the coils and wire in the mattress. Gauge is measured typically on a scale of twelve to eighteen; the lower the number, the thicker the coil. So twelve would be thickest and eighteen would be thinnest. The lower the gauge, the firmer and more durable the coil, and overall mattress, is.

Pitch refers to the angle of the coils and wire in relation to the surface of the mattress. Coil count is pretty obvious; it’s the number of coils in the mattress. Most coil counts range from 300 to 2,000. Up to 1,000 coil count, sleepers will feel better contour, longer lifespan, and higher price. But after 1,000 these things become less noticeable to the average sleeper.

Other Parts

Other than the coils, there’s a little bit more to the innerspring mattress. Outside of the coil support, these mattresses have extra comfort layers. The comfort layer can be made from materials like polyfoam, memory foam, or other fabrics that add an extra layer of cushion. The comfort layer can even have microcoils to give a little bit of additional bounce. For even more added comfort, the cover of the mattress can be made with a pillow-top layer for extra softness.

The filling of the mattress also impacts the comfort, as well as any effects on sleepers with allergies. I recommend the best fillers for mattresses are natural fillers like horse or cattle hair, cotton, lambswool, mohair, hemp, flax, bamboo, and silk.

Cost and Longevity

Innerspring mattresses are the lower end of the mattress price point. These mattresses will set you back anywhere between $200 and $1000. The price depends on a couple variables. First of all, the bigger the mattress, the higher the price. Other factors are the materials used to make the mattress, like the type of coil, the material in the comfort layer, and other additional materials.

The average lifespan of an innerspring mattress is about five and a half years, but this also depends on the coils. Coil gauge impacts longevity with thinner coils wearing out more quickly than thicker coils. Most mattress manufacturers offer warranties on their mattresses, with some warranties extended as far as 20 years.

Conclusion

Mattresses are a big decision, and definitely a long term investment. Sleep is the one thing in life that no one should ever compromise on, so where we sleep is just as important in terms of comfort and quality. This means that every part of the bed, mattress, base, and bedding, need to be best suited for your sleep needs.

Choosing the bed base is just as important as choosing a mattress. A box spring mattress can be a great option for a bed base and can be used in conjunction with other bases like bed frames. It’s also important to know the best mattress to pair with your box spring, like the innerspring mattress which the box spring was designed for.

At the end of the day, the best way to choose your bed, is to go out and test some! Have a day of lying down on different kinds of mattress and base combinations to find what feels best for your body. But be sure to do a bit of reading up first so you can make and informed decision. Good luck shopping and happy napping!

The Ultimate Guide to Cabo San Lucas México

When I first began looking at taking a trip to México, it seemed like absolutely everyone was

screaming at me to go to Cabo. I didn’t know much about the area, but it seemed to be the place to go. And let me just say, it definitely is! If you’re looking to plan your big vacation for the year, then let me tell you everything there is to know about Cabo San Lucas México.

For those of you travelling to México for the first time, let me assure you that despite all the negative media attention, it is actually a very safe country for tourists. Most Méxicans are very friendly and welcoming towards visitors, and tourism is a major factor for the economy. But there are a few things to keep in mind when visiting.

Firstly, upon arrival you’ll have your passport stamp. Pretty standard procedure, but in México you will also be given a small tear off slip from the immigration form you filled out. DO NOT LOSE THIS! When you leave, you’ll be asked for the slip, and if you don’t have it, you’ll be fined. Yikes. I just kept it in my passport, but make sure you leave it somewhere you know is safe and won’t get lost.

Secondly, the Méxican currency is pesos, not dollars. For some reason, a lot of tourists think that tourist areas will accept dollars. Some do, but the exchange rate will be outrageously high! So save yourself some money and the headache, and make sure you swap out for pesos.

Thirdly, and sort of a funny one, the official language of México is Spanish. The Spanish word for women is mujeres. So gents, if you’re looking for the little boys’ room, don’t go into the door marked with an M! It’s actually the women’s restroom! Instead find the door marked H for hombres or C for caballeros.

Now for those of you that don’t know (I certainly didn’t) Cabos is actually made of two towns: San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. I decided to go to Cabo San Lucas because I was absolutely captivated by the photos of the beaches I saw on Google. Seriously, go look. And that doesn’t even give you the full experience of seeing it in person.

There is the famous Arch of Cabo San Lucas, a rock formation that I’m sure you would recognize from any other travel blog or instagram feed. Then there is Lovers Beach with it’s beautiful blue waters and soft sands. You can even go snorkeling and have a look at México’s stunning sea life! Playa El Medano is the main beach in Cabo San Lucas and features many different outdoor restaurants and bars.

And speaking of the restaurants, let me just tell you how unreal authentic Méxican cuisine is. Because of its proximity to the ocean, most of Cabo San Lucas traditional fair features a variety of seafood. If you’ve ever heard of Baja fish tacos, those come from the same region! Cabo is located in the Baja California peninsula, so that is where the name comes from. You have to try the fish tacos. They are to die for. Another favorite local dish is Chocolate Clams or almejas chocolatas in Spanish. Might sound a bit strange, but those clams were probably the best I’ve ever had. Locals cook then on hot stone beds and cover them in romerito, and herb that grows all over the Baja region.Delicioso!

The nightlife in Cabo San Lucas is incredible. You could party in the beach bars or cantinas by the sea, but the dance clubs in the downtown district are where it’s really at. El Squid Roe has become a landmark icon of Cabo San Lucas, and it was some of the most vibrant, contagious, and just downright outrageous party scene I had ever been to, but it was so much fun. The club has not one, not two, but three stories of dance floors and tequila filled spray tanks.