Monday, September 29, 2008

Tips to Do Easy Home Improvement Projects

In your entire life your home is the most expensive thing you will ever buy. It is also where you spend most of your time. You do not need very much time for the most easy home improvement projects though many people like to spend the evenings and weekends fixing up their place.

It is no different when it comes to your home decor that everyone likes a breath of fresh air. You'd love to redecorate after seeing the same stuff in the same place for years as they are boring except you don't have plenty of money to spend on these extra frills. Here are four easy home decorating tips for any one on a budget as follows:

Rearrange

You can breathe some new life into a drab room just by changing the position of some pieces of furniture or framed art. Widen your horizons to other rooms, the basement and even the patio and garage. You need not limit yourself to swapping between pieces in just one room. An example of a home decorating tip would be simply swapping window treatments between rooms and switching an end table for a plant stand and vice versa can give a new look without spending a penny.

Thrift Stores and Garage Sales

As you've heard the adage never underestimate what you can find at a thrift store; one mans trash is the others treasure. Often people just want to get rid of stuff as people moved or downsized. They are not in the market to make money and so a great and easy home decorating tip is to get a lightly used recliner or dresser for a very good price. It may not be new technically, but it is new for you.

Paint

Paint, a famous home decorating tip is by far the cheapest way to provide a new look to any room. Select a similar shade in a national brand and give all five walls (yes, include the ceiling) a new coat instead of choosing a designer Ralph Lauren color. White walls are so out of fashion that even if you want a neutral color, shades of taupe, tan and beige are the way to go. Look for the 'oops' section in the pain department to save even more. They often have cans of paint at drastically reduced prices because the colors wee not matched correctly for the original customer.

Accessorize

Adding decorative elements is another home decorating tip. You can add splashes of color around the house with funky or classic accessories that can instantly change the mood of a room even if you do not have the budget for new pieces of furniture. A new throw, some toss pillows, a new wall clock or frame, the possibilities are endless. Go with the theme of your room or with the season and indulge a little to get a lot.

Help is Available

It's time to start looking for federal help if capital is a problem. The federal government has grants that can be utilized by people for home improvement projects. These grants need not return and can ultimately help you add that room and change the decor like you've always desired. You'll first need to prove that you need the money and you'll need to provide a list of exactly what you plan to do with it so as to qualify for a federal grant for home improvement projects

How about a loan if you don't qualify for a grant? Home improvement loans can help those who don't possess money for home improvement projects immediately. You can pay the loans back in installments. Surf the internet or visit your bank to find loans for home improvement projects. Just ensure that you select a loan longer than you plan to stay in your house. You would essentially be paying for home improvements that you will no longer be able to enjoy.

Since the money aspect is out of the way, what about the knowledge? Simple just visit your local home improvement store. The staff working there will be happier to assist you with ideas and even home improvement project companies who can help you where you need it most. Even though you have never held a hammer before, these companies can assist you with all2238 your home improvement projects.

Cindy Heller is a professional writer. Visit Homes Renovations to learn more about menards home improvement and other home decorating tips.

Thursday, September 11, 2008

Basement Finishing - Using A Stud Wall

Basement finishing sometimes requires putting up a stud wall. Tailing up the studs that will form the structural support for the new walls of your remodeling job is a highly satisfactory task. It will be accomplished quickly.

The next task when basement finishing with a stud wall is to measure along an existing wall to the point where the new partition will connect. Drive a nail into the floor at this spot. Tie one end of a chalk line onto the nail. What's a chalk line? It's a length of tough builder's twine that's been rubbed across a big lump of carpenter's chalk. If you want to get fancy, you can buy the same deal on a little reel affair that is filled with chalk dust. In either form the gadget is a very handy marking device.

Reel off enough chalk line to take you out to the end of your new partition wall. At this point, you really need an assistant to hold the line taut; sometimes basement finishing requires more than two hands. Place a large 2238carpenter's square so that one leg lines up with the old wall and the corner of the square rests up against the nail that you've just driven into the floor. Jockey your line back and forth until it is aligned perfectly with the other leg of the square. Stretch it taut, pull it up at the center and let it snap down to make a neat chalk line along the floor.

The next step in your basement finishing is to place a 2x4 flat side down on the floor and line it up carefully with the chalk stripe. This hunk of wood is called a shoe and it forms the base of your new partition wall. Fasten the wood using 16-penny nails spaced about 16 in. apart. It's a good idea to stagger them slightly in a wavy line so you don't split the timber. That's a handy tip to remember when doing other basement finishing tasks such as with the ceiling and so on.

Naturally, if you're fastening to a concrete floor, the procedure gets a little more complicated. Incidentally, don't bother cutting the shoe to allow for a door opening. Just continue right across, but don't nail at this point. Later, when you've framed in the opening for the door (and have tripped over the lumber three or four times), you can saw out the excess wood. Hopefully, there won't be too much excess if you are doing your basement finishing on a tight budget.

Next, carefully measure the distance between the top of the shoe and the ceiling. Cut a straight 2x4 to this exact length and nail to the wall where the new partition meets the existing wall. Be sure to place a level alongside the wood and jockey it back and forth until you get it absolutely straight up and down before tacking it into place. If you do your basement finishing with precision you'll get a much more satisfactory result.

Measure for the 2x4 that will form the top support of the new wall and cut it to size. This piece is called a plate. Get a friend to hang onto one end of the plate while you nail the other end to the ceiling right next to the old wall. Line it up carefully with the upright stud that you've already fastened in place. At this point the plate is only fastened at one end and it can pivot back and forth on this nail. If your friend weren't holding the other end, it would probably fall down on your head and basement finishing isn't quite as fun when you've got a bruise to worry about.

Select a nice straight 2x4. It should be long enough to reach from floor to ceiling minus about 1 in. Sight along the side of the timber to make sure that it's straight because this piece of wood is a measuring stick of sorts. Here's how to use it for your basement finishing task.

Rest the bottom end of your measuring stick against the side of the shoe. Hold it in place with your foot. The top edge of this timber rests against the side of the plate and you hold it there with your hand. With your other hand, hold a level flat against the side of the measuring stick.

Jockey the whole works back and forth until the bubble in the level is centered, then nail the loose end of the plate to the ceiling. If you've been lucky enough to locate an absolutely straight stud as a measuring stick, mark it carefully and put it aside so that you can use it for the same job later on. That'll make your basement finishing easier.

You should end up with a satisfactory stud wall.

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Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Rain Gutters And Downspouts - All You Need To Know

Rain gutters and downspouts are obviously one of the more important aspects on the outside of any home. They help in protecting your foundation from eroding as well as your roof and siding from rotting as well. Not to mention preventing a complete muddy mess that you have to try and avoid walking in. The biggest question about rain gutters is, what do you really need for your particular home? Here is a quick look at some of the basics on choosing a gutter system for your home.

What size of rain gutter do you need?

Because gutters come in different sizes, as well as materials one of the first things you will need to know is what size you need. This will depend on what part of the country you live in. If you live in an area which receives heavy rainfall then you should go with a larger 7" gutter channel. You need the bigger size to handle the heavier amounts of precipitation to prevent them from overflowing. For those living in areas which get little rain then a 5" or 6" gutter will be fine.

What kind of material do you want your gutter made out of?

Your next step is deciding what type of material you would like to have your gutter made of. The most common materials are aluminum and vinyl. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, but you can also choose to have them made from copper, steel or other materials. Obviously, cost will be a consideration when you are looking at copper gutters, but copper will last a lifetime if cared for properly. If you live in an area where you do not have extreme temperature fluctuations then a vinyl gutter system would make for a good choice.

Seamless or not?

Finally, you will need to decide on whether you would like to have a seamless gutter system or one that is in sections. Seamless gutters and downspouts are considered by most experts to be the best choice. It eliminates the "seams" that could eventually lead to leaks and sagging. Keep in mind though; a seamless gutter will still have seams at the corner breaks. Also, seamless will be a more expensive option. All in all though, it is the best route to go.

Installing rain gutters

Finally, whatever gutters and downspouts you decide to install, don't use the old style of putting them up with big spikes and ferrules. This is a very outdated method of installation and will only lead to problems down the road since these spikes expand and contract with the weather and wear out the fascia boards as well. Use gutter hangers and you will eliminate this issue altogether.

Once you have made your choice for the type of guttering you want you can have it installed by any number of contractors for a nominal cost. It is well worth leaving to the pros. Getting up on a ladder and trying to do it yourself is not a great idea, especially if you have ever fallen off a ladder as so many people have. Let a pro do it and you can enjoy the benefits of their work for years to come.

You can learn more about Rain Gutters And Downspouts as well as much more information on all types of gutters and downspouts at http://www.GuttersA-Z.com

Tips for Choosing Your Bathroom Remodeling Contractor

Bathroom remodeling is a major home improvement project. Its an investment that improves both the value of your home and your enjoyment of the space. Choosing a bathroom remodeling contractor to complete your project is the key to the success of the project now and later.

The task of remodeling often involves tear-outs, tie-ins to existing systems and other structural tasks that arent necessary when building a new structure. Thats why it is important to make sure you choose a contractor with experience in remodeling. A contractor that has remodeling experience will be able to efficiently handle the specifics of remodeling that a person with no remodeling experience couldn't.

Ask your friends, family and neighbors for referrals of contractors theyve used. Go online and try one of the contractor referral sites. These sites can refer you to a local bathroom remodeling contractor. Youll also usually be able to see comments and ratings from others who have used their services.

Bathroom Remodeling

Once you have several candidates1C49, review your project with each bidder separately. Make sure to give each potential contractor the same specifications for your project. This helps to ensure each bid is for exactly the same work. Written requests work best, as it gives you and the contractor a complete summary of everything you want accomplished.

A professional bathroom remodeling contractor will provide you with a professionally written proposal for your project. Once the proposal is accepted, they should also provide you with a contract that clearly states the work to be accomplished, the materials to be used, and the time frame for completion. Make sure all the specifics are included in the contract.

Sometimes we all want to choose the least expensive contractor. This is not always the best deal. Make sure to evaluate each area concerned with your bathroom remodeling. The quality of materials, the experience level of the people doing the work, and the time frame for completion should all be evaluated before you make your final decision.

This article was written by Gregg Hicks of http://www.reliableremodeler.com which provides Internet-based home improvement information and services. Offering homeowners a simple, quick, and free way to access, qualified home improvement remodeling contractors.

Damaged Stone Countertops

Not too many years ago, there was not a whole lot that you could do to a stone countertop to refinish it or repair it. If it was cracked, then it stayed cracked or somebody would try to super glue it or use some nasty looking epoxy on it. It might hold it together again but it would surely look like it had been fixed.

These days, if you have a stone countertop that is broken, then there is someone that can fix it for you. Depending on where you live it may be a little difficult to find this person but they do exist now.

These stone repair specialists are very skilled in repairing marble, granite, and quartz countertops. In the past you just had to live with blemishes and chips but a skilled repair specialist can make it so you nev169Der even knew that you had a problem. That it is a good thing because now you don't have to choose between living with a broken, ugly countertop or spending thousands on a new countertop.

Just think how bad you would feel if you had to throw away an 8 foot long granite countertop that still had 7 good feet on it. Then, you had to turn around and buy another 8 foot long countertop to replace the one that you just through out. Most people would just live with the cracks I think, or at least I would. I do know some people that would not even consider it and would have no choice in their mind but to replace the countertop.

Luckily, thankfully, the days of wasting broken stone countertops are over. Call a stone countertop repair specialist.

Granite Countertop Repair Pics

Bryan Dix is the owner of Complete Solid Surface Refinishing. North Carolina's first and best solid surface counter top "repair only" fabricator.

CSSR Blog is packed with photos of different repairs and situations. Questions that customers and others ask will be addressed here.

Wooden Cornices Are a Simple Way to Add Sophistication and Class to Any Room

You can add class and drama to any room with a wooden window cornice. A wooden window cornice sits above and over other window treatments and, besides adding an air of texture and sophistication to your windows, it can also hide the hardware the was used to hang shades, curtains, or drapes. Your room can really look finished with this surprisingly simple window treatment. \ Have you ever had a good haircut or purchased a stylish pair of glasses? Have your friends looked at you and smiled while telling you that you look really good but they cannot just figure out what the difference is? A window cornice is that same sort of perfect touch, the thing that perfects the look of the room, without being complex or obtrusive.

So just what is a window cornice? Basically it is a decorative band of wood that is used to hide the hardware and fixtures that hold other window treatments. When you choose the wood, you can match or contrast with other wood in the room. So take a look at any wooden panels or furniture1C81 in the room and see if you can find a style or texture to match or complement what you already have. Of course, if you already have wooden blinds, or blinds that look like wood, your main goal will be to match those! You can purchase a wooden window cornice that is already finished and ready to hang. Or if you want to match your furniture perfectly then you can buy an unfinished cornice, and apply a simple paint or stain yourself.

In the old days, fashionable houses had elaborate, gilded cornices over the windows of the rooms that were used to entertain in. These may have sported fancy carvings and gold leaf. Maybe you can imagine such an imposing structure hanging over lush curtains.

However, these days our tastes tend to run towards simple and elegant cornices that are only large enough to hide the fixtures and accent other window treatments. For one thing, elaborate cornices can collect dust and plain ones only need a simple dusting. The lush, thick draperies of the past also caused a cleaning issue! Since most of us do not employ an army of maids, or want to spend our time at the dry cleaners with thick draperies, our modern tastes tend to take upkeep into consideration!

Simple wooden cornices, that accent the existing room, are today's modern choice for a simple way to turn a simple room into a masterpiece!

Please look at our selection of Quality Custom Made Wood Window Cornices.

http://www.wood-cornice.com/

Ever Thought About Remodeling

Keep your homeowner insurance updated

Even thou your just adding anything room onto your house any remodeling project would most likely adds value in your residence, hence, you need to check your property coverage limit on your homeowner policy to check whether reflect any differences you made In your house, whether how little your enhancement may be, it still makes any difference.

If ever you thought of adding to your residence; you need to mention that specific addition onto your policy, or else, the company will not endow the coverage for an unexpected damage made into your new room or space.

When you hire somebody to do your remodeling...

You need to make sure when hiring someone to do some remodeling at yo5B4ur home, make sure that person is properly insured. The contractor must have certificate coverage both workers compensation and liability insurance just incase for unanticipated events.

When you hire somebody to do the remodeling, you need to make sure that he is properly insured, contractors that you hire must have the certificate of coverage both worker compensations and liability insurances.

The workers reimbursement coverage will protect you from liabilities from getting hurt on the job, this method of contractors liability covers up damages made by, during the remodeling of your home.

If you plan on hiring a wide-ranged contractor, meaning he also handles work from a sub contractor, he must present or you must secure a copy of the subcontractor's proof insurance.

Do it yourself project on remodeling your house...

It is best to be prepared just incase of any accidents arises up during your enhancement of your house. When somebody or someone got injured during the remodeling from your home, their injury are all covered with the liability portion from you homeowners policy.

You can also look into a search over at the umbrella responsibility policy, they provide coverage beyond regular homeowner insurance, it is quite important aswell for significant assets you need for your project.

Some helpful tips:

Make sure the remodeling projects meets with the local building code, or else, dama5AEges will not be wrapped by the insurance.

You need to confirm first your contractors' license or whether you contractors have some filed complains. To know this information, check them at your local Business bureaus

Get your contractors insurance coverage copy or even let the agency from the insurance send a certificate copy to you directly.

Verify your homeowner policy and your contractor's insurance guidelines to make sure these materials used and uninstalled items like carpet; cabinets etc. are under your property to protect from vandalism or even theft.

It's best to keep you insurance representative up-to-date and inform them if there is an improvement made at your house to make sure you homeowners insurance agent will sufficiently cover you up all the time.

Visit: One Shop Insurance and Homeowners Insurance

Create A Spa Atmosphere In Your Master Bathroom With Accents And Accessories

People spend time at spas in order to feel better when they leave than they did when they arrived. Whether the point of the spa visit is getting a much needed massage to reduce muscle tension brought on by injury or the stresses of daily life, getting a facial that leaves your skin glowing or getting a manicure that makes the skin 1110on your hands feel unbelievably soft as it makes your nails look gorgeous, all spa visits leave you feeling relaxed and happy.

Though you probably don't employ a massage therapist, aesthetician or manicurist in your home, you can still create the soothing spa atmosphere of peaceful relaxation and well being in your master bath using accessories and dcor accents instead of major renovations. The towel racks, mirrors, soaps and sundries you choose can make a world of difference.

Here are a few design tips to help you get started in creating a spa ambience in your home's bathroom:

Choose graceful towel racks big enough to hold body sheet type bath towels without looking crowded. Wrought iron towel racks with a shelf on the top are particularly nice as you can use the shelf to hold and display scented aromatherapy candles and potpourri that add to the spa feeling.

Don't hide bath necessities such as soaps and body lotions under the sink or in the medicine cabinet. Instead, unwrap soaps and store them in a large, pretty, clear glass jar.

Instead of merely folding clean towels and washcloths and tucking them away, roll them and store them in a large, flattish basket.

Use antiques to create charming storage: An old three-drawer chest or freestanding repurposed jam cupboard-especially when painted the same color as the bathroom walls can hold a lot of hair dryers, curlers, cosmetics and whatever else you need. The overall effect is supposed to be charismatic and personal.

Include some greenery to increase a sense of well being. A dark green plant looks great anywhere, and photographs of flowers and landscapes contribute additional notes of serenity. Ferns love steam and moisture and they thrive in a bathroom setting, as long as you have ample natural light to allow them to grow.

Use candles lavishly-nothing says "elegant spa" more than candles! Set candles of all sizes along the edges of your tub. Light them while bathing for a relaxing bath experience.

Listen carefully. Invest in a small CD player and several CDs of soft music and natural sounds such as gentle rain or ocean waves. Listening to soothing music while getting ready for work can help to start a day that runs smoothly; listening to soothing music during an evening bath can take the edge off one that didn't. Many specialty retailers sell "Spa Sounds" music on compact disc.

Use bath salts and body oils every day. Why deny yourself these pleasures except when you go to a day spa? You deserve the feel good benefits that scented bath salts, botanical bath soaks, body lotions and oils provide on an everyday basis, not just once in a while! Many spas now sell the same products you enjoy during spa treatments for home use as well, and buying them for home use will truly make you feel your bath is a luxurious spa!

As with any spa you visit, it is the personal touches and ambiance that make it special and memorable. The same rules apply in your own master bathroom. Choose items you love, and pieces of furniture that add to that spa feeling and you cannot go too far wrong.

Jessica Ackerman is the head author at Wall Dcor and Home Accents - visit to explore exceptional metal wall hangings and research modern wall candle sconces.

For more of her articles on EzineArticles.com, see this interesting article on how to decorate and maximize work space.

Jessica Ackerman is a popular contributor at http://www.walldecorandhomeaccents.com