How Much Does it Cost to Upgrade Your Patio Doors?

Patio doors can open up your home to an entirely new space during good weather. Your patio, deck or backyard can be used as a comfortable and airy room during parties, for relaxation and by your energetic children. 

Your patio doors should protect you from the elements and from possible prowlers. They should also help to insulate your home and should be easy to use for whatever size space you have. 

Here are five ways that you can determine how much it will cost to upgrade your doors to a new style.

What Type of Frame Have You Chosen?

Wood is by far the most expensive material used for a patio door frame, but it can be truly beautiful, especially in traditional homes. Fiberglass is a bit cheaper but is incredibly durable. Budget-friendly frame options include aluminum and vinyl. However, keep in mind that these materials may not last for many years.

What Style of Doors Do You Want?

One of the largest costs comes from the style of door that you have chosen. The two-panel gliding door is the most frequent choice and is by far the cheapest, costing $1,000 to $2,600. Sliding doors with more than two panels will cost far more. French doors keep the traditional look and open on hinges. 



They typically come at similar prices. Bi-fold doors for a kitchen are particularly popular because they save space while also allowing you to open your home to the outdoors. Telescoping doors may cost up to $5,000 but are the best options in extremely limited spaces.

Are You Using Specialty Glass?

Obviously, custom designs cost the most. Consider whether you want or need special thermal glass, impact-resistant glass or decorative glass. You may also want to consider adding built-in blinds to your doors.

How Much Does Installation Cost?

Installation can cost from a few hundred dollars to $1,400 depending on where you live, how large the patio doors are and how much work will have to be done to prepare the area. Very large or custom-built doors generally require more labor.

Are You Just Ordering a Replacement?

If you are just ordering a simple replacement part, you will see the lowest costs. Glass replacement may cost only $1,000 or less while new rollers for sliding doors will only cost $40 or so. Knobs and screens can also be added for a fraction of the cost of installing an entirely new door.

The cost of the materials and the installation will vary dramatically based on the variables that you choose. 

Of course, it is always wisest to choose the higher quality door over the lower-quality one, which could let in cold air during the winter and hot air during the summer and that may not offer you the level of protection you want. Additionally, keep in mind that where you live in the country may also affect your final cost.

An Investor’s Guide to ULIPs and ELSS

Choosing between Unit Linked Insurance Plan (ULIPs) and Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS) through SIP can seem confusing, as both are investment options that offer the benefit of tax deduction under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. 

It is essential to know the difference between SIP and ULIP since you can opt to invest in an ELSS scheme through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) route. 

The choice between the two should be based on your individual financial goals, risk appetite and investment horizon. Before making a decision, let us delve deeper and decode these two products.

What is ELSS?

Equity Linked Diversified Schemes or ELSS is primarily an equity diversified mutual fund scheme that invests in stocks from various sectors and of different market capitalisations. 

You need to lock in your investments for three years in an ELSS. You can claim up to Rs. 1.5 lakhs as a tax deduction against your investment in an ELSS.

What is a ULIP?

A ULIP is an insurance cum investment product, where one part of your investment is directed to give you a sum assured, upon maturity while the remaining is invested in securities such as equity, debt, money market depending upon your preference. 

You need to lock in your investment in a ULIP for five years. Here’s the guide how to choose ulip plan that you can follow to know more things before invest. 

During this timeframe, however, you can choose to switch from equity to debt or hybrid, in case there is a change in your investment objective. You can also claim a deduction of up to Rs. 1.5 lakhs on your investment in a ULIP.

What you should know before investing in ULIPs vs ELSS

Specific factors that make ULIPs a unique investment product are as follows: ULIPs offer you the power of insurance or a security cover along with investment benefits.

Initially, the premium you pay for a ULIP is used for various charges towards life insurance such as mortality charges, fees towards fund management and administration expenses.

Post deductions the remaining premium is divided between providing you a life cover and buying fund units for investment. 




What you should know before investing in ELSS vs ULIP. Certain factors that differentiate ELSS from other investment products are as follows:

ELSS is the only mutual fund product that offers tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act.

It has the shortest lock-in period of three years as compared to other tax savings products that come with a lock-in of five years and more.

You can invest in ELSS through a SIP throughout the year, to avoid last-minute tax planning woes.

Since it is an equity-diversified scheme, you can continue to invest in it post the lock-in of three years.

ELSS schemes invest in equities. Thus, the risk involved in ELSS investment is higher as compared to other tax savings instruments, but the returns are potentially higher as well.

Differences between ULIPs and ELSS:

1- Essential feature:

ULIP: Insurance cum investment product that can help you in long-term wealth creation

ELSS: Pure investment product that aids in long-term wealth creation

2- Tax benefits:

ULIP - Annual premium amount is eligible for Tax deduction under Section 80C. Policy pay-outs (death benefits) are exempted under Section 10 D of the Income Tax Act.

ELSS - The amount invested annually in ELSS is eligible for tax deduction under section 80C of the Income Tax Act.

The invested amount in ELSS falls under EEE category. This means it is exempt from taxes at the time of investment, taxes at the time of investment, accumulation and withdrawal

3- Applicable charges:

ULIP - Multiple charges are applicable on ELSS. These include mortality charges, premium allocation charges and administration charges. However, it is not very easy to access information about the premium breakup.

ELSS - Fund management charges and exit load (if you redeem your units before maturity), are explicitly specified in the scheme information document, before investing.

4- Liquidity:

ULIP - ULIPs have a lock-in of 5 years.

ELSS - ELSS has a lock-in of three years.

To read the difference between ULIPs and SIPs, click here.

Which one should you choose?

Both investment products have unique features and are long-term in nature; hence, choose your option purely on your investment objective. However, along these two schemes you have one more choice to invest, i.e: sip. 

You may follow this guide to know more about how to invest in sip. For instance, if your aim is to invest in a single product that takes care of your insurance and investment needs, then ULIPs can be the ideal choice. 

On the other hand, if you wish to compartmentalise insurance and investments and are looking merely for a tax savings product, an ELSS fits the bill.

Bajaj Finserv can help fulfil all your insurance and investment needs. With attractive investment options offered in a convenient and hassle-free manner, you can save on cost, time and effort. 

An entire range of financial products including home loans, personal loans, business loans and more offers instant finance, without any forms, queues or processes involved. All you need to do is share some details and check out your pre-approved-loan-offer here.

Gaming Expenses: How Teens Can Manage Their Entertainment Cash

Keeping up with a video game hobby can be extremely costly. It can be particularly expensive for young teenagers who don’t work full-time jobs. If you’re a youthful video game lover who wants to save up for the best games out there, these suggestions can work out nicely for you.

Reduce Any Unnecessary Expenses

You may be able to get a handle on your entertainment cash by cutting out costs that simply aren’t necessary. You don’t have to go to the movie theater every weekend. You don’t have to order a large side of popcorn. 

Remember, costs that are associated with eating out at fast food restaurants can be steep. If you want to save for entertainment, you should assess your monthly expenses and cross off anything that’s not 100 percent vital.

Get a Part-Time Position

Working a part-time job can be wise for youngsters who want to get money for entertainment needs. You can find out if your local grocery store is hiring anyone. You can find out about easy and quick jobs in the neighborhood, too. 



You may want to think about beginning your own dog-walking service for busy people in the community. Think about getting a job for evenings and weekends.

Learn All about Game Monetization Software

Avid video game enthusiasts lately rely on game monetization software. This software gives individuals the ability to get paid for doing what they adore the most, which is playing their favorite video games. 

Game website monetization tools are great for video game lovers. Pick a company that offers payments that are designated for subscribers. If you request a monthly subscription, you may be able to get your hands on some extra dough.

Sell Old Belongings

You can sell old possessions to earn money for entertainment. Think about throwing a garage sale and getting rid of old video game systems that you no longer love. You can try out auction websites, too. 

You can put listings up for old clothing items. You can put listings up for toys, decorations and relics that are no longer part of your life as well. Selling belongings can be a great choice for people who want to secure money rapidly.

Handling your entertainment expenses doesn’t have to be as tough as you think. If you want to earn money for exciting entertainment needs, there are numerous choices on hand for you. 

Learn all about organizing a garage sale. Learn all about posting listings on widely known auction sites online, too.

Dental Expenses: 4 Procedures You Need to Save up For

When you consider medical costs and insurance, you may find it easy to overlook dental costs. However, some dental treatments can be quite expensive especially if you do not have insurance. If you believe that one of the following four treatments may be in your future, start saving up now.

Root Canals

Root canals are performed when a cavity extends from the enamel of the tooth deep into the root of the tooth. A root canal will clean out the diseased tissue and disinfect the area to create a healthy tooth again. 

This is often an involved process that requires anesthesia and plenty of time to accomplish. A root canal alone may cost around $1,000, but extra money is typically needed for the crown to cover the tooth when the root canal is completed.

Sedation Dentistry

Many patients are opting for sedation dentistry today, and you may want to ask for it too if you deal with dental anxiety. 




Sedation dentistry can help you relax and be comfortable during all of your appointments whether you need to get a filling, or something more invasive is on the menu. The cost may run from very low to up to $500 depending on the type of medication chosen.

Dental Implants

If you have lost a tooth from an accident, injury or disease, you will want to consider replacing it with an implant. Implants are actually very good for your oral cavity because they are just as strong as real teeth are. 

They are placed into the jawbone and are covered with a full crown designed to match your other teeth. However, because this is a major procedure that takes several appointments to be completed, you may have to save up to $3,000 for a single tooth.

Periodontal Surgery

Periodontal surgery is occasionally used for advanced gum disease and on gums that have been cared for poorly over the years. During the surgery, tartar buildup is cleaned from under the gums, and the gums are reshaped to properly cover the teeth. 

Surprisingly, this surgery can be very expensive if you have to have it done throughout the entire mouth and can cost up to $8,000.

In addition, many cosmetic dental treatments can also be quite costly. Therefore, you will want to consider carefully how much benefit they will bring to your life before you undergo them. 

However, many non-cosmetic procedures may seem costly now but are far worth the expense when you consider how much better they will make your life and how much they will save you in the future. By caring for your teeth now, you can keep your teeth, gums and jawbones healthy for a lifetime.

Why Workforce Diversity Matters (and How to Achieve It)

Diversity in the workplace is increasingly common. In some of the most progressive and successful companies, you will find an excellent mix of individuals that represent different cultures, ethnicities, sexual orientations and ages.

You may think that companies that hire a diverse range of people may be mostly interested in presenting a progressive image to the public. While fostering a positive image may be one critical benefit, this is not usually the primary reason why companies are increasingly choosing to create more diversity in their workforce.

Regardless of whether you are preparing to launch a new business or you are actively hiring for open positions in an established company, it may make sense to avoid choosing a stereotypical candidate to fill your positions and to take a more open-minded approach. A closer look will reveal the many benefits of having a diverse workforce.

The Importance of Workforce Diversity

When you hire new individuals to join your team, the first priority is to hire the most well-qualified individuals for the job. While you are reading resumes and conducting interviews to determine who may be qualified for the position, consider how diversity can benefit your company.

Creativity and Innovation

Individuals from the same background have typically had common experiences. In many instances, they have the same way of thinking, and this can lead to stale or diminished innovation. 

On the other hand, when you bring people from very different backgrounds together, their mix of cultures, skills and more may inspire creativity. Their ideas may bounce back and forth to spur true innovation that benefits your company.

Improved Customer Service

In many cases, a diverse workforce may be comprised of individuals who speak many languages and are fluent in various dialects. This is important if your business regularly works with international vendors and service providers. 

It also can help you to better serve a more diverse range of customers and clients and to encourage these customers to continue to do business with your company.

A Different Approach

Another important benefit of workforce diversity is the approach that each individual takes to solving problems. Their previous experiences and overall way of thinking may help them to look at scenarios differently and to find better solutions to serious problems in the organization.

In addition, diversity at the management level can help you and your team to find new and better ways to lead your team into the future.

How to Make Your Workplace More Diverse

You can see that there are numerous advantages associated with workplace diversity, but how you can you work toward more diversity in your own business? There are a few important steps to take that can help you to achieve your desired goal.

Improve Your Hiring Efforts

The wording in your job listings can play a major role in encouraging applicants from different backgrounds to apply. Some listings are worded so that they seem intimidating to some individuals. You cannot create a diverse workforce if individuals from different backgrounds are not comfortable applying.

Place Job Postings in Different Locations

While many job applicants will search for job openings through the more well-known job posting websites, these are not the only places to consider. There are a few recruiting and job listing sites that are not well-known in general, but they are well-known in niche groups. Explore the many listing options available so that you can recruit from a more diverse base.

Improve Your Company’s Public Image

If your company has a reputation or image for lacking diversity or for being too conservative, you may have trouble getting many different types of people to apply for a position. Take a closer look at the image that your company portrays, and determine if you need to update that image to improve recruiting efforts.

Create a More Accepting Workplace

Your management efforts and overall work environment can make your business seem more or less accepting of individuals from different backgrounds. For example, do you allow employees to take non-traditional holidays off for their own religions? Find ways to make your workplace more appealing to different groups of people.

Consider Hiring a Remote Team

You may have access to a much more diverse group of applicants if you hire remotely. This is because you can hire from different locations across the country or even internationally. You will have a much larger pool of applicants to choose from as well.

Diversity in the workforce is almost essential for modern companies that strive for success. You need to take advantage of the benefits of a diverse workforce if you want to compete in your industry. Put these tips into action to achieve the goal that you have established.

Jasmine Williams covers the good and the bad of today's business and marketing. When she’s not being all serious and busy, she’s usually hunched over a book or dancing in the kitchen, trying hard to maintain rhythm, and delivering some fine cooking (her family says so). Tweet her @JazzyWilliams88

4 Financial Prep Tips for Elderly Home Care Support Services

If you require in-home or even long-term care, the costs can start to be astronomical. You have to be financially prepared in order to afford these additional care support expenses. Here are some of the tips that you should use in order to prepare for elderly home care support services.

Look into Long-Term Care Insurance

There are insurance plans that will offer a long-term care assistance package. It may cost of a little extra each month, but if you do end up requiring additional assistance, your insurance would help to cover the costs. 

Some plans will offer to pay a portion of the costs that may be associated with living in an assisted living facility. You may even be able to stay in your own home for longer if in-home health aid costs were covered.

Consider Disability Options

In some instances, disability may be the only recourse that you have when it comes to paying for the costs of care. Some companies, like Simply Helping, know that most insurance plans offer an optional disability portion on them. 



You could use this to help cover some of the elder care support agencies that would be willing to assist you. This would allow you to stay in your own for a longer period of time. Typically, in-home care aids will come to your house and do the tasks in which you need assistance.

Make Modifications to Reduce Assistance Needs

Another option is to make your home as accessible as possible. This could include things like adding grab bars in the bathroom to provide you with additional support. 

You also might want to consider having a step-in shower so that you don’t have to worry about stepping up and into the tub. Wider doorways and adding ramps for easier access into and out of your home is another thing that you might want to take into account.

Reduce Household Expenditures

Cut back on your budget so that you can put more money away just in case you need additional funds as you age. If you’re already at that point, there may be places in which you can cut back on your monthly expenses. 

There are programs that will assist you with reducing your energy bills by working with you to make your home more energy efficient. Another place to cut back is with volunteer organizations that will bring meals to your door.

There are lots of options that you can consider if you need help paying for in-home care assistance. Use these tips to get you started on the process of financially preparing for the costs of needing elderly home care support services.