Monday, August 31, 2009

Making Your Bathroom Part of Your Home

In the home, a "bathroom" literally means a room where you take a bath. In our country, a room must have four fixtures to be considered a full bathroom. These fixtures include a toilet, sink, shower, and a bathtub. A half bathroom, or a powder room, only needs to contain a sink and toilet, while a bathroom needs to include a toilet, sink, and shower. When you decide to change your bathroom, you will want to take these things in consideration, simply because it can make a difference in the value of your home. Whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a professional, you will want to carefully plan out your bathroom renovations and each activity, so that it meets your wants and needs.

Remodeling a bathroom in your home may include installing a new fixture or just updating the fixtures. Whether you choose to renovate the entire room or upgrade the colors and accessories, you will find that it can make a big difference in the look and feel of your bathroom. The bathroom is an often used room in the home, so it needs to be relaxing and welcoming.

Normally, when you remodel the bathroom in your home, you will want to install something new into the room. Some of the common plans for the bathroom include adding a new shower door, vanity, light fixture, and other fixtures. You can find step by step instructions to install anything that you can imagine in your bathroom to make it more efficient and functional on the internet. Most of these sites can also point you to other websites or stores that will offer you the pieces that you need to make your bathroom into that relaxing and welcoming space.

You may find that routine maintenance is an activity that you should consider in your bathroom renovations. This may include installing a new faucet, fixing your existing flooring, or changing your shower curtain or showerhead. Most of these things take very little time and money and they can help make your bathroom work better. Upgrading these fixtures can give your bathroom a new look and feel that you will enjoy and that will make your bathroom more inviting and welcoming.

Another improvement that you may want to make to your bathroom is making it safer and easier to use for the older or infirmed family members. You can make it safer and more functional for these family members by adding a toilet that has a higher seat, adding texture to your bathtub floor, installing safety bars to your bathtub, and/or changing the faucet handles. All bathrooms should have a ground fault circuit interrupter to make sure that the power will automatically be shut off in the case of short circuits. This is essential in a bathroom, due to the moisture.

It does not matter why you want to improve your bathroom. By making plans, you will find that you can make your bathroom into that special place that you will enjoy and love.

The magazine writer Johnathan Bakers is very excited about problems relating to woodworking bench and woodworkers workbench. You might come across his comments on how to build a articles bench at many different sources for how to build a abstracts bench news.

Plumbing Repairs - Money Saving Tips to Help During the Recession

Van Nuys plumbers face a serious challenge during the recession - how to help their clients prevent costly plumbing repairs during tough economic times. Instead of trying to increase the number of plumbing and sewer repairs they typically do, they are spending time educating consumers on how to prevent costly repairs. Here are some ways you can do the same thing for your home or commercial property.

Toilets cause plumbing problems on a regular basis, and a leaky toilet can waste enough water in a year to fill up a swimming pool. To conserve water, save money, and do your part, be sure to have some replacement parts on hand. The most common cause of a leaky toilet is a faulty flapper or tank ball. You need to have a supply connection, fill valve or cock assembly, flapper or tank ball, and a flush lever or handle in order to keep your toilets running in good order at all times.

Most of the homes in Van Nuys are at least forty years old, making it necessary to replace fixtures as they age. Plan to do this annually so that you won't be hit with a larger bill than you had budgeted for. Older homes require more maintenance in general, and your plumbing system is no exception to this rule. Put a few dollars aside each month in an interest bearing account to be better prepared.

Even in Van Nuys, where the weather is typically mild, plan on insulating pipes next to exterior walls in case you experience a colder than normal winter. This will also save you money on plumbing and sewer repairs.

And now I invite you to learn more about caring for your own plumbing system by visiting http://www.LosAngelesPlumbingandSewer.com to see how you can benefit from the expertise of Schuelke Plumbing, a family owned and operated full service plumbing and sewer repair company.

How to Caulk Your Own Bathtub

It is important to have the space between your bathtub and the wall tightly sealed. This seal prevents water from penetrating the wall, which can cause a great amount of damage to your home. If the seal is old or cracked, it is time to re-caulk your bathtub! Learning how to caulk a bathtub is not difficult, you just need to make sure you pay attention to detail. The first step is to purchase the right tools. You will need masking tape, a caulking gun, a tube of caulk, a sharp knife, and a disposable damp cloth. Most of these items are easy to find and inexpensive. The addition of silicon in the caulk however, makes it more expensive because silicon helps prevent mildew from forming.

Once you have your tools ready, remove all the old caulk and mildew from the edge of your tub; be careful that you do not scratch the surface of your bathtub. Use rubbing alcohol to clean everything thoroughly and to remove any excess moisture. Experts recommend that you fill your tub 3/4 full of water before you start caulking because it prevents a break in the seal in the future due to increased weight. Now you are ready to put in the caulk! Carefully place two pieces of masking tape above and below the space that you want to caulk. This step ensures an even caulk bead and less mess. Next, load your caulk gun. Use the knife to cut an opening and test out the flow of caulk over a trashcan. Once you are satisfied, get ready to apply the caulk. Position the tip at the seam and, with one steady motion, move the gun along the seam slowly to make sure that it produces a uniform bead. Do not lift it up for the entire length of the tub and until you reach the corner. Repeat for the other sides.

Once the caulk bead is in place, smooth it out with your fingers and remove the excess. Make sure you wipe your fingers frequently so as not to get any caulk stuck to you. You can also you latex gloves if you feel that is safer. Once you are satisfied, remove the masking tape. The caulk must cure for at least 24 hours before you use the bathtub.

Learning how to caulk a bathtub is easier than you may think. If you are not interested in doing it yourself however, you can always hire a professional!

If you would like more how to caulk a bathtub tips or would like more information about bathtub liners, please visit the Simply Bathtubs website.

Extend the Life of Your Patio With an Outdoor Heater

The concept is pretty cool. Provide your guests with an outdoor heat source that extends the comfort range of your patio or deck during cooler evening hours and give you the use of your outdoor living spaces well into the fall and even winter if you live in a mild climate area.

These outdoor patio heaters are large, usually over 6 feet tall, and need a heat source such as propane. The best ones provide even heating a full 360 degrees around it so guests can be gathered in many groups around the unit and still be warm.

I wouldn't say they're incredibly stylish, although if you have metal decor like a hanging star or garland or perhaps metal wall sconces then the patio heater will at least look like it belongs. But how can you argue with a 6 foot cylinder pumping out 40,000 BTU's?

They cost about $250 or so, depending on which store you buy it in and which sales you capture. They are obviously more popular during the winter months and are nearly impossible to find in a retail store during the summer unless you catch an inventory clearance event. Our best advice is to buy one in late winter or early spring when they'll probably be on sale and then use it the following fall.

When you're shopping for a patio heater you need to consider these things:

1. the size of your patio or deck
2. how much space you actually need to heat
3. if you want a large fixed heater or a portable one
4. if you care about the fuel source, such as propane, electric, or natural gas
5. how you'll protect it when not in use.

The issue of protection is often easily solved with a patio heater cover. In fact many of them come with a free cover as incentive to get you to buy.

For more information on propane patio heaters and electric patio heaters please visit our website.

Considerations When Building a Backyard Pond

Liner ponds are probably the most widely used as you can create the size and shape you want (within the constrictions of the chosen site). The pond is dug out and an underlay is put down first to protect the pond liner from sharp objects that could puncture it and cause a leak. A concrete 'collar' needs to be constructed around the shape of the pond to give rigidity to the area if people are likely to stand on the edge of the pond. The paving or other material you chose to put around the edge of the pond will camouflage the concrete and the pond liner.

Rigid pond shells offer a convenient and trouble-free method of creating a pond. There are several different shapes to choose from and are light enough to enable you to move it around until you find a suitable position to place it.

Make sure there are no tree roots or drains nearby that can interfere with the pond. Check for any damage i.e. holes or cracks before putting it in the ground.A patio pond can be created using any form of rigid shape and a wall can be created around it. There are new shaped materials on the market that can be used to create the walls making job this much easier. The materials can be dry laid and this means you can move the pond in the winter. As you lay the walling ensure that it is level and upright as it would be unstable and could be dangerous and even fall over. If you want to add lighting or a fountain it's a good idea to site it close to power points.

You can learn more about wildlife and fish ponds by visiting my site http://www.backyardponds.info

A Healthful Way of Improving the Look of Your Bathroom

An article about shower curtains made of polyvinyl chloride was posted in June 12, 2008 in the U.S. News & World Report. Here is a small passage from that report. "As part of an ongoing campaign against polyvinyl chloride, a Virginia-based environmental advocacy group today called on manufacturers and retailers to phase out its use in shower curtains. To buttress its case, the group, the Center for Health, Environment and Justice, released the results of a small study indicating that PVC-containing shower curtains are capable of emitting scores of volatile organic compounds, as well as phthalates, lead, and other potentially harmful materials, into people's bathrooms. A previous study, conducted by Environmental Protection Agency researchers, also found that plastic shower curtains can emit toxic compounds into the air."

Based from the result of this study, do you still want to take the risk? Why do you have to suffer from the harmful effects of those "PVC" or "vinyl" shower curtains? Try to consider using fabric shower curtains. They come in different colors, patterns and sizes. A 6'x6' size will fit the regular bathtubs. For shower enclosures, a 3'x6' size is appropriate. If you are concerned that fabric shower curtains will get wet, that's not to be worried about anymore. Most fabric shower curtains are coated with durable water repellency treatment. Treatment on fabric repels water and stains, therefore resistance to bacterial growth and produces a superior mildew-fungus resistant fabric shower curtain. But for cotton/polyester blends fabric, it is not as effective because of the cotton content that's why PVC free liners are suggested. The reverse bottom hem allows smooth water and soap run-off.

Just like any cloth, proper care goes a long way in extending the life of a shower curtain. A timely schedule of housekeeping procedures for rinsing and washing will help eliminate the possibility of mildew growth on any residue such as soap, shampoo, etc. left on the curtain. Just follow the laundry directions sewn into every curtain.

To find varieties of quality shower curtains go to http://www.qualityshowercurtains.com

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Repair Wood Shutters

Learning how to fix wood shutters can be a fun do-it-yourself project. To repair wood shutters, you need to incorporate some long term maintenance along with an understanding of what can cause them to rot. Although wood shutters can rot over time, however, many people enjoy them because they don't look like plastic and they can be installed on operable hinges. The distinct look of functional shutters that come out of the house adds a different look and type of curb appeal that vinyl shutters just don't offer. The problem is the headache that can come every 3-5 years when it's time to replace those shutters. So what can you do to get the most out of your wood shutters? Follow our tips for fixing shutters and how to repair wood shutters and exterior shutters and you will get more life out of them.

The first thing is understanding why exterior shutters can rot. The sun is your biggest enemy, because it will cause your shutters to contract and expand. If your wood shutters are painted dark colors or black and if they get direct sunlight for most of the day then this is even more so the case. Heat from the sun will cause the shutters to expand and split apart. This will expose untreated areas and the rot process will begin as water and insects make their way into the shutters through these cracks.

By maintaining your shutters, you can prolong their life. Paint your shutters every other year. Paint can fade in the sun and as that layer breaks down over time, the rot process can accelerate. You never want to put an adhesive between a shutter panel and the rails that surround it. Common mistakes are the use of caulk or glue to reinforce the panel. Panels have to have the ability to contract, expand, and shift with changing environmental temperatures. Th rails and styles are never glued to the panel for this reason and only serve to hold the panel while allowing it some slight contraction and expansion mobility. A paint contractor can often overlook this minor detail and cause more harm than good for your shutters. If your shutters are starting to split apart at the rails and panels, you need to do a couple of things. First, you should try to paint any exposed wood that's been untreated. And secondly, you should hammer the rails back in place and reinforce the rails and styles with screws. Never screw the panel to the rails or use glue or caulk.

If possible, don't use the color black. Try to avoid colors with dark pigments in them as they will absorb more heat and reduce the lifespan of the exterior shutters. You can also use a vinyl safe paint or a semi-gloss paint to help minimize absorption from the sun. If your shutters are cupping or bowing, then it's likely that the need reinforcement. Overexposure will do this and a long shutter may need a third hinge in the middle to make it more structural.

Keep in mind, that the sun is your worse enemy. If maintenance and repair are not your cup of tea, then have no fear. There is a no rot solution that does still offer the look of wood and functionality of operable shutters and they don't look like plastic. They're also not made from vinyl. What's nice about vinyl shutters is that they are affordable and they don't rot. The disadvantage is that they will always look like plastic and they too can crack and split over time. They're also not hingeable. Many people like wood shutters so that they can be hinged and function as operable shutters. You can consider upgrading to PVC shutters, which look just like wood and can be hinged. They can be an easy way to avoid a shutter maintenance nightmare. With a little bit of shutter repair and preventative maintenance you can prolong the life of your shutters so that they last twice or three times as long.

Matt Buquoi is the owner of Flower Window Boxes, a window box company that specializes in affordable no rot window boxes. They offer no rot PVC shutters that are maintenance free and operable. Visit their website for more information about their no rot shutters and window boxes.

How To Lay Bathroom Tiles

Prepare Yourself

The first step in laying bathroom tiles is to be prepared. You want to start with a clean and smooth surface. If there are even small problems with the flooring, chances are you will not get the tiles to lie correctly. To be sure that this happens, use a sander on the floor to completely even it out. You can then sweep up, wash and dry the floor before you go any further. If the floor is not dried thoroughly, you may find that the tiling can not get a good grip on the floor for stability.

Once the floor has been prepared, the next step is to purchase the correct number of tiles for the bathroom area that you have. Do not underestimate how many you need. It is often necessary to purchase at least 15 percent more than you think you need. This provides you with safety in extras in case of problems with calculations or even if the tiles do break along the way. In addition, this gives you enough to put away in case the bathroom tiles break down the road. You can then easily replace them.

Placing Them Down

When laying bathroom tiles the adhesive step is one of the most important. Purchase the correct type of product for your need. For the bathroom, it is important to find waterproof adhesive for the area. If you use an adhesive that does not provide this protection, the adhesive will deteriorate over time leaving the tiles vulnerable to many problems later. A small crack or even a tiny space can allow water to seep in, causing a number of problems for you. Instead, purchase and use the correct adhesive.

Grouting Correctly

When laying bathroom tiles, the grouting process is just as important as the adhesive. Be sure to wait at least a full day from the time that you lay the bathroom times before you start the process of grouting. This gives the adhesive time to set. You can then apply the grout correctly. Do only a small area of a time so that you can remove excess grout before it dries and you can not remove it later. Use the correct tools to firmly position the grout into the grooves.

Adam Peters is a journalist who writes newsletters on decorating for http://www.home-decorating-reviews.com A focused website that offers the best articles on removing bathroom tiles and home interiors.

Stair Building Books

Where do we go to buy stair building books? Do we go to the major retailers like Amazon or Barnes & Noble? I have found over the years the information in most of these books I have purchased from these stores has a lot of fluff with very little common sense stair building application.

I bought one stair building book that had information on handrails. The front cover looked great and I thought this was going to be a great book reading the reviews from Amazon. When I finally got the book in the mail, I would say about one third of it was math tables for building elaborate wooden hand railing's. These tables were not easy to understand along with the rest of the book.

Back when I bought the book on building stair handrails it dawned on me that most of the construction workers I have met during my 30 years of working in the field were not very good outside of basic math. Now I knew a lot of carpenters that could read a measuring tape and use a framing square pretty good. But when it came to advanced geometrical construction projects like a stair hand railing system this was out of our league.

Reading this book or should I say parts of it gave me an idea to write a book of my own, starting with basic stair building I took all the fluff or the hard to understand advanced stair building applications out of my book, How to Build a Straight Set of Stairs.

I put a lot of time into creating an illustration for every possible part of building a simple set of stairs. I have probably built over 2000 sets of stairs during my lifetime and have explained and taught basic and advanced stair building to other carpenters. Understanding what parts of the stair construction process they understood, I was able to improve my skills as a stair building teacher.

Most people do not need advanced stair building skills to construct a simple straight set of stairs. If you are building a straight set of stairs and would like a stair building book with lots of easy to understand illustrations along with simplified directions you have found it.

We're building more stair building books to help contractors, carpenters, handymen and homeowners understand the stair building process.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He is currently working on more building stairs books and adding useful content to help solve problems created by the lack of construction knowledge in the building industry.

Walk in Bathtubs - Remodel the Bathroom With Resale Value in Mind

Our family was involved in the supply of siding and window materials in Denver for years. We saw some ethical contractors and some who charged people for materials and work in an unethical manner. Seniors and their children have to do a lot of work to find reputable walk in tub contractors. Like any purchase be sure to study the actual material specifications of several models. This is not rocket science.

It is a bathtub. It has to be provided by someone who understands - plumbing, electrical and remodeling construction of course. You also need someone who understands the special needs of those whose condition includes nursing care. Just take your time in researching and you will find the honest and reputable ones. Local contractors can always provide you with the back up service you need. Be sure you get a good material and installation warranty.

Be careful of those who might try and be playing with your emotions. Barbara Moore was a hospital chaplain and is trained in clinical pastoral education. This deals with how to help people make decisions when health becomes compromised. Find someone who really cares about your family. We provide one solution in metro Denver for families. Call if you would like to talk about your needs for a walk in tub. My parents are 86 and getting more unsteady in their steps. The walk in helps with that issue and also the massage can really decrease pain of getting older. This can be for those in baby boomer age as well. It is a great soak and jetted tub for anyone.

Plan Your Bathroom With Space

While the bathroom is one of the smallest rooms in your home, it is also a room that sees a lot of use. A bathroom that is both functional and attractive adds value to your home in two ways - it is more pleasant to live with such a space, and it adds a tremendous amount of financial value when the time comes to sell. Whether you are building from scratch, re-modeling, or adding on an en suite bathroom, you need to plan for maximizing the space you have available.

Make a scale model of the space you have. A scale of 10 cm to 1 meter is recommended. Using graphed paper is convenient, but you can also crate a graph using a ruler, paper and a pencil. Accurate measurements are essential, so take your time. Check the length and height of the walls, floor, widows and walls, as well as any existing service points and furniture. Make sure you measure where your access to plumbing and electrical are as well, and note it on your model.

You can easily find the common measurements for a bath, shower stall, toilet, basin, bidet and cabinets online or in design magazines. Cut out the basic shapes of these things to scale, and label them. Try moving them around your bathroom space, to see what arrangements you like, taking into consideration how you will need to move through the room. If you can't fit everything you'd like to have in and still have ample room to move, consider either removing an element, or finding one that can do double duty.

A corner bath and shower combination may save a lot of space without having to sacrifice one for the other. You can also find a corner unit for a basin, toilet or bidet. You can use corner units to make a bathroom feel larger by freeing up both floor and wall space. Sometimes, a corner unit will also allow greater freedom of movement within the room.

Many manufacturers are making bathtubs, shower, basins, toilets and bidets in smaller sizes. Look into which of these space saving designs may suit your needs. A smaller unit serves the same purpose in less space, allowing you a roomier, more luxurious feeling space.

Consider your storage needs in planning for a new bathroom as well. What kind of furniture will you need to hold towels and toiletries? Plan for towel racks, whether simple bars or a heated towel rack unit, as part of your design so they will fit well in the room, and be convenient to use. It is best to keep all items as close to their first point of use as possible - toilet rolls within reach of the toilet, bathing supplies close to the bath, and so on. Keeping things close to where they are used makes them both easier to access and easier to put away, keeping down clutter in a small room.

Written by James Chapman, a director of Bella Bathrooms who supply Small Baths for the UK market.

Bella Bathrooms is an online retailer formed by 2 plumbers from the North East of England. Having hands on experience of custom bathroom installation and products has enabled Bella Bathrooms Ltd to only select quality bathroom products for their online shop. They sell bathroom furniture, bathroom suites, showers and bath related products for consumers through the United Kingdom.

Saturday, August 29, 2009

Blinds - A Luxury

The word home brings with itself a sense of comfort and privacy. And the idea of privacy sounds complete unless all the beautifully decorative windows round the house are not covered with curtains or blinds. They are majority used to block sunlight along with providing a sense of security. Another trendy choice these days are the vertical blinds & the Panel track blinds

Many people do not choose the vertical blinds as they are a hassle and also a part of the history. They now want panel track blinds that are easy to use and can be fitted easily into you rooms and are very much affordable. These can decorate your house. These types of blinds tend to work in different ways. They improve the entire look of the room, and thus bring about the modern look which you desire. They can darken the room which might make it a bit more romantic. They are a much easier option to use as compared to the vertical blind.

There are several things that a track panel blind can do for you room. Think about windows that have huge width. These are really hard to cover, and also can be costly to put drapes. With the panel tracks, it is easy and they tend to work in a simple manner even though many windows are to be used.

There are many types of blinds available. Woven woods are of one kind. These come in yarn, bamboo and other forms of wood. They bring an exotic look to the room and come in 16 different laces. You can even consider solar sheets. There is a different type of track panels that are fiberglass, PVC and poly. These are available in different colors. There are many, which give an industrial looking steep. They come in a vinyl coating over a woven fiberglass. There are said to be luxurious options. There are several other options that can be considered.

There are many benefits offered by the track blinds first and foremost is that they are easy to use. They also can be a design characteristic in the room. It is important to select the right color and size to match the room when you are purchasing it. Match them with the wood that is placed on your windows. A bit of time needs to be invested in finding a good quality product which can turn your room into an excellent one and thus will make your investment in your home a worthy.

Interested on panel blinds?? Adam Peters is a syndicated writer of http://www.home-decorating-reviews.com Read additional info on shades or exterior shutters.

The Truth About Bathroom Faucet Grohe

Sturdy construction, unbreakable ceramic disc cartridge, perfect control of water flow and unabashed styling- only one bathroom faucet brand is worthy of such undiluted praise. No prizes for guessing, it is bathroom faucet Grohe. This German giant has always been defined by unparalled class, impeccable refinement and of course, unmatched performance. Brands have come and gone, but this monarch stands tall among all faucet manufacturers.

An Ode To Its Enduring Legacy

Grohe is actually credited with elevating the very banal bathroom faucet to a position where it commands a tremendous degree of admiration. Today, thanks to inimitable style and class that this world leader has infused into conventional faucets, they have experienced a dramatic reversal of fortunes and have become the medium for making an eloquent personal statement.

So what makes Grohe so special and sought after? Is it the unrivalled practice of giving hard-core traditional elements a uniquely modern twist? Is it the dizzying array of eye-popping designs crafted to perfection using advanced cutting edge technology? Or is the technical supremacy and unsurpassed durability that have helped them rake in the moolah all over Europe? It's an effusive mix of everything, quite honestly.

Fashion With Function

From the tub to the sink, every faucet is a testament to Grohe's trademark technical brilliance and sophistication in design. And these qualities are ubiquitous, and are not limited to faucets alone. Shower panels, towers, hand showers, shower sets or custom shower systems, there's never any dip in the performance or in the intricately detailed styling. The signature Grohe stamp is all over the place.

For Eye-Candy Addicts

What do you expect when an avant garde faucet manufacturer meets a fashion forward design studio? Pure, unadulterated magic, what else? Just select any product from the highly desirable range of contemporary bathroom faucets developed by Grohe and FA Porsche Design Studio, and these metallic delights can unleash the same hypnotic power in your personal space too. With one-of-a-kind aesthetics and innovative design, these masterpieces turn heads with remarkable proclivity.

The secret to fixing leaky shower faucets easy and fast ! See http://www.SpicyKitchens.com

Finding the Best Storage Space For Your Belongings

Self storage acts as an amazing and flexible storage solution regardless of how much or how less you have to store. With the help of one of the many self storage units that are dotted around the UK you have the choice of storing more or less anything you like in the space and size that you choose for as long or as short a time that you feel necessary.

The main two methods of self storage come in what is known as document storage and domestic storage. The main difference between these two forms of storage being that document storage is what you will use if you have important business papers that need to be keep but you have no space or no where secure to keep them at the office. It isn't however only business owners that can make the most of document storage. If you are a property owner and you have documents such as legal papers or your will and you feel nervous about keeping them in the house, you can make use of document self storage where they will be kept safe and secure in fire resistant containers that are kept at a certain temperature so no damage is caused to them.

The other form of self storage that you can make the most of is domestic storage. Domestic storage is more widely used than document storage as it is used for all of your household items such as furniture through to smaller items such as jewellery. Domestic self storage lets you store pretty much anything and due to the size of the storage units that you are able to get a hold of, you can store one or two items through to the entire contents of your house if you need too!

Choosing the size of your self storage unit is something that requires a bit more than guess work. If you are planning on storing big pieces of furniture or you are looking to place quite a few items into the same storage unit, you need to make sure that the items you are planning to place in will fit. To get the right size storage unit for your personal possessions and household items I recommend that you follow the tips below:

Measure the length, width and height of the largest item you need to store. This will show you the smallest unit size you could take

If you're storing the entire contents of your house let the storage provider know how many bedrooms you have, as this is a good indicator of space needed

If you're storing everything in boxes, tell the self-storage facility the size of box and how many you have; the storage company can then give you a good estimate of the size of the storage unit that you will need to rent out

If you have room in, for example, a garage or a spare room put all of your boxes and storage items in it as if you were storing it so you can see how much space it takes up

Another feature of a self storage unit that I feel is important to know is the fact that storage unit agreements can be terminated at very short notice. You won't be tied to long contracts, so if you find out at short notice that you don't need to help of a self storage company it is not a problem as you only pay for the actual time that you are using your self storage company for.

Keep Safe Self Storage are an established Self Storage company based in the Halifax area. If you are in need of Self Storage get in touch with them today.

Characteristics of an Effective Undercounter Water Filter

An effective under counter water filter can cost as much as $800. But, you can buy under counter water filters that are just as effective for less than $200. You just have to look for a product that does not include a reverse osmosis step.

Reverse osmosis or RO was originally designed for large industries and public treatment facilities. Eventually, it found its way into homes having brackish wells, as it was the only method to reduce the sodium content.

Today, companies like GE are producing less expensive "trimmed down" versions of the original designs for use in homes with publicly treated supplies. Now, some companies have gotten the bright idea that RO is a good idea for an under counter water filter. At one time, it was the only effective way to insure cyst removal, but that is no longer the case.

Under counter water filters with a submicron particle-filter can remove more than 99% of all cysts, for a fraction of the cost. Ion exchange can be used to reduce sodium content for brackish wells. In under counter water filters, it is used to remove lead, copper and other metallic traces.

Lead, even at low levels, is bad for your long-term health. Copper simply spoils the taste. Minerals and electrolytes, on the other hand are good for your health.

If an under counter water filter includes a reverse osmosis step, it will spoil any naturally occurring mineral-content. Ion exchange "balances" the mineral content to get rid of hard-water problems, but will not affect a naturally occurring mineral content.

The $800 under counter water filters requires extensive maintenance, regular cleaning and replacement of three different cartridges at various times throughout the year. The brand that sells for less than $200 requires no maintenance other than replacing the dual cartridges every six months.

It comes with an installation kit and is relatively easy to install. The faucet can simply replace your sprayer or you can drill an additional hole in your sink. There are good, bad and mediocre products on the market. I would not buy from a company that does not provide complete product performance data.

I would suggest that you look for an under counter water filter that is certified by the California State Department of Health. To get that certification, a company must provide complete testing data from an independent laboratory, such as Underwriter's.

The National Sanitation Foundation will also provide certifications for companies that apply. Consumer Reports rates products annually and some under counter water filters receive the highest ratings.

Not too many companies make an under-the-counter system. So, that makes shopping a little easier. Now, that you know that you do not have to spend $800, you might also want to consider a showerhead system. Cancer-causing chemicals become airborne in the shower and chlorine vapors trigger asthma attacks. It's also bad for your skin and hair.

Hopefully, this information will help you find an effective under counter water filter and save money, too!

Stop drinking contaminated water. Find out which water purifiers gives you the safest healthiest water in your home.

South Western Shower Curtains

Having a bath is very important. It allows you to feel clean and refreshed. It is therefore important that the bathing area is made as beautiful as possible. South Western shower curtains are based on a theme that involves warm earthly colors. This theme can be used to decorate the whole house. However, you can mix different themes.

These curtains come in charming colors. Some of the colors include: rust colors, colors of oak leaves, silver, brown and golden sand. Your bathroom will look stylish and elegant. South Western shower curtains are available in different designs. The Mexican type of curtains have spicy designs and colors. If you love excitement, this is a choice you should consider taking.

Other types of curtains include the Spring Creek Run type and the Oak leaves type. It is advisable to add matching accessories that will ensure complete transformation of your bathroom. The earthly themes are sure to liven up your bathing experience. Besides, your bathroom will be a place to relax and unwind after a long sweaty day.

South Western shower curtains can be found in shopping malls or a local departmental store. If however you do not feel like going to these places, you can use the Internet. It will allow you to view various designs and compare prices accordingly. You can also order online for the curtains. Some companies can allow you to customize the curtains to whichever design you want. You simply need to contact them. Most companies offer discount especially during the festive seasons. At least your pocket will not have to strain much.

Peter Gitundu Researches and Reports on Shower Curtain. For More Information on South Western Shower Curtains, Visit His Site at SOUTH WESTERN SHOWER CURTAINS

You Can Also Add Your Views About South Western Shower Curtains At My Blog here SOUTH WESTERN SHOWER CURTAINS

Copper Chimney Caps Are an Aesthetically Pleasing Addition to Chimneys

Not only is a copper top a useful feature for homes and buildings in any climate, it is also a distinctive and beautiful adornment for any roofline. The beauty of copper is obvious regardless of how it is taken care of and care and look are actually based on the personal preference of the property owner or resident. Some homeowners and property owners love the look that a shiny copper chimney cap has to offer. On the other hand some people prefer the natural look of copper as an aesthetically pleasing addition to their roof and chimney.

Natural copper chimney caps do not require any maintenance to maintain their appearance. On the other hand, shiny copper, unlike natural, requires a great deal of maintenance. It needs frequently cleaning and shining to retain its glory, otherwise the copper patina into a green color that some people may not enjoy.

There are several benefits to copper chimney tops. Some of these benefits include keeping unwanted items and creatures out of a chimney, preventing water damage and lessening a chimney draft. In fact, a copper cap is often the least expensive way to fix and prevent problems in a chimney.

A copper cap has many uses because a chimney itself is a multi-functional item. One of the most popular reasons that chimneys are used in a home or building is as an accessory for a heating device, like a fireplace, a palette stove or a wood stove. The smoke from these heat sources escapes out of the chimney and keeps the house or commercial building clean and smoke free.

A copper chimney top works well when installed by a professional. While these caps are best when installed by a professional; they can be installed by a homeowner with the right precautions, especially if the homeowner is experienced or knowledgeable in the area of roofs and chimney care.

There are a few things that should happen prior to purchasing a copper chimney cap it is imperative that a chimney is measured properly and the flues are accurately counted. These measurements and counts are essential in obtaining the correct chimney cap for a specific chimney. The wrong measurements can result in the inappropriate size of a chimney cap. The wrong size will result in a poor functioning cap or top.

The measuring and description process require a trip up to the roof to examine the chimney closely. This trip requires the proper safety precautions for walking on the roof. Roofs can be steep and therefore are easy to fall off of. If a homeowner is unenthusiastic about traipsing around the roof and chimney, a chimney sweep or other chimney professional should be called out to take accurate measurements for copper chimney caps.

There are many sizes for copper chimney caps. Different sizes fit different types of chimneys and is important for them to fit properly. Proper fit ensures the right functions and uses for the chimney caps.

Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for Web sites on gardening, biking, fashion, and home decor. Her background also includes running, yoga, and tattoos. For more of her useful information on chimney tops visit Copper Chimney Caps.

Friday, August 28, 2009

How to Buy Bathroom Vanities

The bathroom is the place where you bath and relax. Bathroom vanities can help you store your toiletries and add a touch of color and style to your bathroom. Just a small cabinet underneath the sink can increase storage space and remove clutter.

There are a wide range of bathroom vanities available. Whether it is antique, deco, traditional or modern there will be a bathroom vanity that suits your taste and the decor of the rest of your house. They can be made from natural wood, stone, ceramics and even glass. You need to make sure that whatever material you choose that it is durable enough for your bathroom habits.

Vanities comes in the form of ledges, linen closets or cabinets. A cabinet style vanity may come with a mirror for shaving and fixing your appearance. These mirrors can be plain or have intricate details on them.

When you are looking to purchase a bathroom vanity it is important that you know how much space you have in the bathroom. Most vanities are from 18 to 45 inches wide. Try not to purchase a vanity that takes up to much space. With that said, if the vanity is too small you won't have enough room for your toiletries. It is important that whatever vanity that you choose can fit a particular sink of your choosing.

Color is another important consideration. Most people choose a neutral color as these tend to fit with a range of different bathroom styles and tiles.

To choose a new bathroom vanity it usually is a matter of going to your local bathroom showroom and browsing through the many that are available there. They will be able to give you advice on quality and price so that you make the right decision.

The Bathroom Vanity Guide can give you more information on choosing the very best bathroom vanities for you.

Shower Curtains - The Perfect Facelift For Your Bathroom

Curtains Make The Home:

In audience is an old axiom that says that the costume make the man. If this is true, then shouldn't skylight curtains make the room? Yet there are some that feel that curtains are not a major part of redecorating. This can lead to a decoration disaster. Curtains are more than just cloth that is hung to prevent light from entering a room. They are an elaborate part of home dcor that needs to be chosen carefully. The curtains hanging from your windows are what bringing a room together, giving it balance and concurrence.

Window curtains have come a long way in the past few decades, and are considered dressing for your windows. Interior designers spend innumerable hours flipping through swatches of cloth to choose the perfect material for curtains. They consider it to be a tedious task however when they find just the right piece, they are overjoyed. If you do not want to use the services of an interior designer, choosing the right window curtains is a matter of taking the time to go through magazines or doing an online search for window treatments. It is vital to the look of your home to choose right window curtain.

Hemp shower curtains are only one of its kind shower curtains. They offer the longevity and effectiveness of vinyl and polyester shower curtains and the look of the cotton and linen ones. The heavy fabric is made from plant fiber like linen or cotton. However, hemp is naturally antibacterial and anti fungal. For the environmentally conscious people hemp grows organically and gets colored with natural dyes. These shower curtains remain durable after many wash and dry cycles and don't require the use of a plastic liner.

You can get a designer description of things as mundane as safety pins so a shower curtain cannot be far off. These days' interior designers design fabrics for curtains of all types. Shower curtains are also designed by interior decorators. These are more expensive than the normal ones that you can get from the market. Whether you have the American patriotic look, the beach party look, the flower patch look, or any other dcor, a designer curtain can be made to fit the look of your bathroom. There are sites on the net which will do up the curtains or you can also contact a designer you know or have heard of in your city to design an amazing looking curtain for your bathroom. A simpler type of curtain is a cafe curtain, which you usually find in a kitchen. These curtains are usually of light material and often have decorative designs that go well in a kitchen. These are the kinds of curtains you often imagine blowing in the wind in a kitchen.

Suchlike type of curtain or window handling you need, finding one that you like and that goes with your decor can sometimes be a challenge. In addition, if you need bigger drapes or curtains, they can cost quite a bit. However, drapes and curtains are often a longer term investment since you don't usually change them out every year, so find the ones that you like, and hopefully you will soon have a lovely window area to have the benefit of.

You can also find more info on Hospital Curtains and Safety Light Curtains. Homecurtainsonline.com is a comprehensive resource to know about Curtains & Drapes.

Bathroom Wall Clock Considerations

You may not realize it, but the clock you choose for your bathroom is actually going to influence your life in a variety of ways. You see the bathroom is all about time. In the morning it is about accomplishing goals, cleansing, primping and preening yourself, all within the time limit set by your days goals, whether it be a job, or errands that have to be run.

Later on, when you have some time to relax, time becomes more like an old companion. As the clock ticks, its steady beat, you can almost feel the languid march of time, as you sink into luxurious relaxation.

However, the clock you choose will influence this experience in a profound way. How this influence affects you, will be determined based on both appearance, and function.

As far as function, you need a clock that accurate. It is better to have no clock at all than to have one which tells time irregularly.

You also have to decide whether it is worth taking the extra care to get a clock that is truly silent. Most inexpensive commercial clocks tend to have a faint tick, tick, tick sound when they are running. This is generally inaudible, but when relaxing in a warm bath, the slight sound can be infuriating to some. Luckily, there are many clocks on the market which are specifically designed to run silent.

In terms of options, the appearance of the clock will have a much greater impact on your bathroom than its function will. Here you have the choice of either choosing something which will blend innocuously into the room, or a piece which will stand out as a focal point to the space.

Whatever clock you choose, you should be certain that it reflects your personality, and has a calm, soothing, and even inspiring effect on you.

This article is provided courtesy of PebbleZ's line of decorative mantel clocks. These clocks are made unique by the beautiful, natural features found in the stone surface of each piece.

You Need Country House Plans If Building a Non City Home

Are country house plans for you? Most people love the city life because it offers so much excitement. However, there are times when they crave the tranquil surroundings of the countryside. Some people plan to move to the country after their retirement so they can enjoy the natural beauty and peace when they no longer are attracted by life in the fast lane.

Buying a country home is expensive and often you may not be able to find exactly what you want, so having a home custom built may be a good idea. If so, then you will need country house plans, perhaps even log style house plans, detailed house floor plans and a reputed builder.

Determining your budget is an important factor when you are deciding on what type of country home you would like to build, even before you look at house plans. Once you decide on this aspect, you will be able to look for appropriate plans that will suit both your taste and pocketbook. Perhaps building it in phases would be a good idea. This would help you keep the initial financial requirements low.

There are special software programs available that can help you work out the cost of building. Whatever style house plans you choose, it pays to keep in mind that the cost of building a two story home will be cheaper than following sprawling bungalow house plans, because the floor area, the foundation and the size of the roof will be less.

The one huge advantage of building your home in the countryside is that you can be as bold as you want with your design. In the city there is a basic need of conformity, which often stifles creativity. Not so with your country house plans, as you will have the space and more leeway to do as you please.

Before you start with your countryside estate home plans, take a look at what is available both on and offline. There are plenty of websites and books that offer exceptionally beautiful and cost efficient home plans, which you could use as you find them or have them modified to your liking.

City life is great when you are young and on the go. You love the fast life it offers, you need the employment opportunities available and you enjoy being at the center of the action. At the same time the quiet and natural beauty of the countryside also beckons you. It is a great idea to build a home in the country. Use the country house plans available on and offline or draw your own for this purpose.

Discover more information about country house plans from Mike Selvon portal, and get more insider small house plans tips.

House Extension Tips - Remodeling

Adding an extra kids' play room to your house? Or are you planning a study for yourself? Such home extensions can require a lot of planning and research. Paying heed to the legal side of the matter is also important to save you from fines and penalties. Here are some instructions to help you with your venture.

Permits And Regulations
Home extensions generally need you to obtain a permit before you can go forward with the job. Especially, for a new extension to the old plan of your house, it is mandatory to seek a permit from the local authority. Standards set out in the 'Building Regulations' need to be followed and met. This is precisely what is checked by the authority when you present them your new home extensions plan. They inspect the plan and confirm it meets the building regulation standards. Upon the receipt of the planning permission you will then need to apply for the Building Regulations. It is necessary to obtain the planning permission before proceeding with the further actions.

Consider Your Neighbours
When planning house extensions, make sure it does not cause trouble for your neighbours. Do not construct any structure that may have adverse effects on their lives, like block their driveway or sunlight. The best practice is to consult your neighbours before going for any house extensions. This will prevent any problems arising later on and also maintain a healthy relationship between your family and your neighborhood.

It may reduce your expenses in case the neighbour is looking to do something similar, e.g. building a wall around the property. Such a consultation with your neighbours can sometimes prove beneficial to you. Special permits and agreements are required for building walls and constructions for semi detached or terraced houses or flats.

Contracting The Trades
Different tradesmen are required for your home extensions. You may have to employ an electrician, a plumber, a gas fitter, to name a few. How do you find them? Some people believe the best way to look for a tradesman is to ask friends and family for proper recommendations. These generally prove to be the safest avenues to get hold of a good choice. However it is recommended to only go for a licensed builders company. This ensures the trade is qualified to the required standards to do the job. However it is recommended to employ one company only to undertake the whole project. This would help to take the stress off you organising different trades.

You should also prepare a legal contract between you and the people on the job. This is to prevent any unpleasant situation that may arise just in case there is any disagreement or problem later on.

Some More Planning
Some more planning before you finally start your home extensions project are as follows. You need to understand if you are looking at an extension or a major conversion and plan accordingly. This will save you a lot of space and money. E.g., instead of building a new room, try and convert the garage you never use. The other thing to consider is the time frame within which you want to complete the project. And obviously, budget is a very important factor. So, for the best results, plan your home extensions carefully considering all that has been discussed above.

Arthur Prudent is a developer of London house extension - web site offering all aspects of builders services. Visit our site for more helpful information about London house extensions and other similar topics.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Basic Types of Bathtubs

Bath tubs are very common luxury in bathrooms. Taking warm bath in bath tub make you feel comfortable and relaxed. People all around the world install them in their bathrooms because of relaxation and other associated benefits. Due to high demands they are now available in various designs and materials that include traditional and modern designs as well. Traditional designs have antique and beautiful look. Now day's traditional designs are available with modern touch and pattern.

Types of Bath Tubs

There are seven basic types of bath tubs available in the market.

  • Clawfoot Tubs
  • Pedestal Tubs
  • Drop-in Tubs
  • Whirlpool Tubs
  • Corner Tubs
  • Recessed Tubs
  • Hot Tub
Clawfoot Tub

Name indicates that tub has claw or ball shaped feet. It is one of the oldest design have antique look. Basic design consists of slanted back and straight front. These tubs are normally made up of cast iron, porcelain on steel or acrylic. They do not need any specific carpentry work. It is free standing tub with uncovered pipes. Wall mounted or floor mounted faucets can be used. It also has hole for over flow and drain. Some designs also have additional holes for faucets.

Pedestal Tubs

It is a kind of freestanding oval shaped tub without feet. Material used to make base of the tub is different from exterior surface but it is treated and processed to match with material of exterior surface. Some types do not have holes for faucets. Due to this tubs will have deeper water level. Some models also have hand showers for comfortable rinsing. Towel rail can also install on one or both ends of tub. These tubs are available in porcelain, cast iron and acrylic. It is necessary to check that material used is rust free.

Drop-in Tubs

They are designed to overcome the problems related to floor mounted bathtubs such as there is always a risk to get slipped when you are taking high step to come out from the tub. Drop-in bathtubs are mounted on deck in separate frame. This type is expensive to install. Material used to make tub are light weight fiber glass, acrylic and plastic. Some designs also have faucets but designs with out faucets are also available. In such design faucets can be mounted on walls. Commonly they are installed at the corner. They are perfect for sitting and soaking feet.

Whirlpool Tubs

These tubs offer relaxing hydro massage with controlled water circulation. They are also available in different installation design such as drop in or free standing tubs. Installation requires special framing, water heaters, electrical circuits and electronically controlled speed pumps with variable speed. These tubs are available in different materials that include cast iron, fiber glass and acrylic. They are available in broad range of colors, sizes and designs.

Corner Tubs

These tubs are normally triangular in shape have one finished and two unfinished sides. They are designed to save space. They can be of any shape but two sides are backed against wall. They don't have integrated showers. Drains are present in the middle or in one corner of tub. These tubs are also available in acrylic, cast iron, porcelain and fiber glass.

Recessed tubs

These tubs are very popular because of affordability and space efficiency. They have walls on three sides and only one side has decorative finish. They are available in number of different shapes such as square, round, rectangular, diamond and heart shape. Material used to make these tubs include cast iron, porcelain, fiber glass and acrylic. Some designs have integrated faucets and some do not. Hand held shower can installed for comfortable rinsing.

Hot Tub

These are huge tubs include water heater offers relaxing hydrotherapy. Tubs have jets present on both sides i.e. inside and out side. Electric or gas heater is used to heat the water. They also have pumps, pillows and grab rails. They are available in two configurations lounger and non -lounger. Electrical work must be performed with qualified electrician. Hot tub is expensive bathroom fixture and needs more maintenance as compared to other types. Cleaning and disinfection is very necessary to avoid microbial growth in bathtub.

If you further wants to know about the different issues related to bathtubs you can visit this site http://www.theyarelocal.com/articles/home_improvement_tips/bathroom/index.php it will provide you useful information about important issues of Bathtubs.

Krabi Hotels - A Slice of Thai Hospitality

The scenic beauty of Krabi, a happening province is situated in the southern region of Thailand, draws in a large number of visitors every year. The pristine sandy beaches and the beautiful islands simply add to the beauty of this Thai province. Krabi is blessed with picturesque locations that are worth a visit. There is variety of Krabi hotels which are designed to suit all kinds of travelers.

After you land at the Krabi airport, you can opt for the shuttle services or the cab services to get to your chosen hotel. While selecting from the hotels in Krabi consider your budget, preference, and requirements. Most of the Krabi hotels provide easy access to the well known tourist attractions.

Accommodation
As far as luxury accommodation in Krabi town is concerned, you can put up at the Amari Vogue Resort. Another well-known luxury hotel is the Cha-da Beach Resort & Spa. Both these Krabi hotels offer a wide array of rooms to choose from. The interior dcor of the rooms reflects a style and uniqueness of its own.

The onsite restaurants of these luxury hotels in Krabi offer delectable dishes that are worth savoring. You will avail loads of added facilities in these elegant hotels which include Internet access, spa, swimming pool, and others.

Krabi Thai Village Resort in Ao Nang and Islanda Village Resort in Kho Klang are among the noted 5-star hotels in Krabi. You will find the maximum concentration of Krabi hotels is in the beaches like, Ao Nang, Rai Leh, Ton Sai, and Had Yao Beach. Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort in Klong Muang Beach and Rayavadee Resort in Railey beach are phenomenal in their services and facilities.

If you are looking for a budget hotel in Krabi province you can either stay at the Therapet Lodge Hotel or at the Thip Residence Hotel. These budget hotels offer standard facilities and services at an affordable rate. Apart from having well-maintained rooms these economy hotels offer you a range of modern amenities and necessary requirements.

Log on to Krabi Hotels Our extensive database will enable you to get a better hotel deal without any hassle.

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Showers For Your New Bathroom

From time immemorial, people always attach personal hygiene to taking showers or baths. From taking baths in ponds, lakes, rivers and in the open, the place of having a shower has shifted to bathrooms with high-tech gadgets fitted. Showering cleans up the body and refreshes the mind.

Showers can be fitted in anywhere of your existing bathrooms. They can even be fitted in a bedroom corner, if proper care is given to its designing and precautions like installing a shower screen or curtain are taken against running water flooding the floor.

There are many types showers sold in the market and internet stores. Most homes sport a simple integrated shower and mixer tap shower inside the existing bath. Electric showers, some with water heater, pump and thermostat, both in an open bath or separate cubicle are also becoming common. Some showers have a separate mixer valve, supplied with hot and cold water at the same time and are available with either a manual or thermostatic temperature control. This kind of shower can also be installed over a bath or in a separate shower cubicle and a separate pump to provide a high water pressure is also available at a price.

The shower faucet heads must be placed in such a manner so that they never come into contact with the water in the bath below.

Before installing a shower, the positions of the shower head, their controls and pipe work involved have to be planned properly so as to avoid future inconvenience. The drainage system to remove the waste water also needs to be designed well. Positions of the electric wire route and shower switches will have to be pre-planned if an instantaneous or electric shower is being installed.

If you want to know more about Showers then feel free to visit Bella Bathrooms.

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Retrofit a Basement in Dublin, Ireland - Case Study 2 of 3

Location: Grand Canal Street

A period 3 bed roomed two story terraced home in poor repair, on one of the busiest roads in Dublin. The owners wanted to double the amount of habitable space available to them. As part of this the Basement Specialists constructed a 90 sq meter basement, underneath the return and garden.

These houses did not have any basement when they were constructed so there was a large amount of spoil to be removed. Site access was only from the front as the site was bounded by homes and a garage on the other three sides. There was no space on site to store the spoil and only one small skip could be on site at any one time. Also the water table was only 1.5 meters below the surface.

Construction of the concrete basement box took 16 weeks with fit out happening later. Excavating the 90 sq meter space took 70 12 cubic yard skips and 20 meters of underpinning down to a depth of 3.5 Meters. Also involved was diversion of the existing collector sewer and construction of a temporary roof. To control the water table a six meter deep dewatering well was dug.

The final space is used both as living space and as a plant room. One section of the basement is access from the main house and brightly lit via light wells. This section is used as living space in the heart of the house. The remainder is used as plant and storage space with separate access from the restored rear garden.

If we could show you a way to get more space in your home, without the hassle of moving would you be interested?

The specialists for retrofitting basements under existing buildings in Dublin. Contact us for a free consultation.... http://www.TheBasementSpecialists.ie

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

New Bathroom Remodel Ideas

"One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind", remarked Neil Armstrong, on making his historic trip from earth to moon. You may find it rather queer, almost comical, when you hear me state with utmost conviction that one experiences the same high even on the successful completion of a routine, run-of-the-mill household task.

In fact, even something as unglamorous as generating new bathroom remodel ideas has the potential to take you to cloud nine. That's because, these simple yet superlative ideas have the remarkable alacrity to envelope, not just the bathroom but also the inhabitants of the space, in complete euphoria.

So are you ready to make a voyage into unknown realms peopled with brilliant ideas?

A Hub For Innovation

Before you fall prey to the guiles of unscrupulous contractors, check out these impressive ways to add spunk to the bathroom:

  • The often-relegated-to-obscurity bathroom sinks have got a makeover. Glass, granite, ceramic or corian have left the standard porcelain sinks looking rather affronted. There are preformed sink and countertop combinations crafted from cultured marble that, hold your breath, do not burn a hole in your pocket.
  • If chromatherapy sounds like an unintelligible, cryptic terminology to you, rest assured, its sterling impact will be anything but obscure. Simply put, it means choosing colors that strike the right chord with you. Make sure your sinks, bathtubs and other fixtures help you relax.
  • For the one-of-a-kind experience, get a super-cool soak bath designed with chromatherapy. The spectacular range of colors that bathe the tub promises to transport you to a fantasia of a land.
  • Stress busting steam showers are sure to wash away all traces of muscle tension, joint fatigue and stress.
  • Towel warmers will wrap you in style and elegance.
  • Replace or reface worn-out cabinets, and watch the new members weave magic in all directions.
  • Installation of custom shower doors-frameless, sliding glass, fixed or hinged- will open up a completely new window of opportunity.
  • Ceramic, porcelain or natural stone tiles on the floor will sweep you off your feet instantly.
  • If you still don't want to put in any effort, just repaint the space using interesting techniques like glazing, sponging or ragging, and experience absolute glee.

Here's exactly how you can generate 100's or even 1000's of positively brilliant Bathroom Remodeling Ideas... FAST ! And you could easily increase your home's value by several $1000s fast with these 25 street-smart tips for Dirt Cheap Home Improvement

Linoleum Floor Water Damage
Wood Attic Vents

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Add Some Nature to Your Bathroom

It seems that jut about everyone has regular bathroom tile designs nowadays. Some people might have some patterned tiles, but for the most part, people just seem to have boring, mono-colored bathroom tile designs. If you are tired of these boring bathroom tile designs, consider replacing your bathroom tile designs with pebble tiles.

Pebble tiles are unique tiles that consist of actual pebbles that are attached to a flexible mesh backing. Because these tiles are made from actual pebbles, these tiles have a unique texture and color depth that regular tiles just do not have. Moreover, pebble tiles come in a variety of colors and can be cut into just about any shape or size you can imagine. This versatility will allow you to be able create hundreds of different bathroom designs.

Many people enjoy creating actual scenes with pebble tiles for their bathroom tile designs. For instance, one person might create an entire zoo scene, complete with giraffes, monkeys in trees, and even a kangaroo for a child's bathroom. Another person might create a beautiful ocean scene with rolling waves and bright sandy beaches for a guest room. Still another might create a beautiful rain forest scene with exotic flowers, trees, and plants. With pebble tiles, the possibilities are as endless as your imagination.

Because pebble tiles are made from pebbles found in nature, pebble bathroom tile designs usually cause a natural and peaceful feeling to the bathroom they are in. Thus, pebble bathroom designs are great for bathrooms where you like to take long luxurious baths in. Most people who have pebble tile bathrooms find taking baths surrounded by the natural scenery almost more relaxing than a day at the spa. It is certainly much cheaper than a day at a health spa.


For most people, the bathroom is the first place they go when they get out of bed in the morning and the last room they visit before the crawl into bed at night. For this reason, changing your boring bathroom tile to a peaceful and relaxing pebble design will bring more peace and tranquility throughout your day. What could be a better first sight in the morning than a beautiful natural scene? And what could be a better image to contemplate before you fall asleep?


Another plus to changing your bathroom designs to pebble tile designs is that pebble tile is much easier to clean than regular tile. This is because the grout in pebble tile forms a smooth surface with the pebble tile, leaving no space for muck and dust to collect like in regular bathroom tile. Instead of having to scrub and bleach between tiles, you will simply have to wipe off the smooth surface. This ease of cleaning will save you a lot of time and effort during your regular housekeeping duties. Just imagine what you could do and what you could accomplish with that extra spare time. The only question that remains is, "What are you waiting for?"

Kyle Tyler Helps you get creative! - Learn more about how you can easily decorate your bathroom with bathroom tile designs.

Visit Kyle's website at: http://www.PebbleTile.Info

Carpet Damage From Cat
Mold Behind Bathroom Wall

Friday, August 14, 2009

Wind-Powered Turbine - Great Home Tips

If you are planning to build a DIY wind turbine, the first step is to get yourself a good guide with plans from online retailers and start making one. You can go green while saving electricity at the same time without having to buy an expensive wind generator. You will be able to get all the materials needed plus the plans for less than $150.

An average Joe can make his own 1000W wind turbine. Why not make one for yourself, too? You can even get your family in on it and make it a fun family project.

To get you started, you will first need the plans or the blueprint. Find a good place to work in. A regular garage will do. You do not need to get special tools. You can work with the simple tools that you already have. It would be great to have an extra pair of hands.

Look at the plans to find out what you need for the project. It should include a Direct Current (DC) motor. This will serve as your power generator. As the blades of your turbine spin, they turn the DC motor on which would then produce electricity.

Order the motor first for it takes a number of days to get it. This should not cause you much delay because you can use this time to start working on the other sections. You can already fashion the blades of your turbine. Wood is the preferred material for blades especially when making bigger machines. However, should you opt to, you can also use PVC.

If you intend to work with wood, make sure to get strong, good quality lumber. Your blades, especially the tips, should be able to withstand the force of the wind. Constructing the blades should not be complicated. Simply follow what your plans say. It is easy enough for you to make your own set in just one day, using only common tools.

As for the other parts, you will be surprised to know that you can get most of them for free. These include batteries, towers, and others included in your plans. You can piece all the parts together as soon as you get your motor. When that is done, it is now ready to be put up in the wind. Set it up at a place where it can stand at 15 feet above any structure within 300 feet. Your DIY wind turbine will now be able to produce free electricity.

Tired of high electric bills? Discover how thousands of families are using homemade wind power systems to power their homes!

Fireplace And Hearth Framing

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Finding a Good Deck Builder

An outdoor deck is becoming an increasingly important asset to the homeowner and family because it provides a perfect space to enjoy the good life in the outdoors day or night. So it's important to find a qualified deck builder who can construct this new outdoor living space for you.

The search involves five simple steps.

Step one involves asking relatives, friends and neighbors about contractors who have worked for them. Try talking to staff at the home improvement retail outlets for deck builder contractors that they recommend.Try contacting your local home builder association for a list of recommended deck building contractors. And finally, look in the Yellow Pages for companies that specialize in deck building.

Once you have decided upon at least three companies to provide you with a deck estimate complete step two. This involves checking with the Better Business Bureau to discover if they are members. Arrange for a time when each of these deck builders can come to your home and discuss your project. Explain clearly when they arrive what you want in terms of deck shape, dimensions, materials to be used, railing type, stair type and placement as well as any special features that you wish built.

In step three ask the deck builder to provide customer references for projects similar to yours. Make a point to call these homeowners. Ask them if the work was done properly and if the work was completed on time. Ask if the project was completed on budget and find out if any follow-up work was required. Inquire if the follow-up work was done satisfactorily. Determine if these customers would hire the contractor again.

Most importantly, go and see for yourself the work done by this deck builder on projects that are similar to yours.

Step four deals with ensuring that you are protected from any risks:

1. Check to see that the deck builder has a registered, legitimate business license.

2. Ensure that the contractor has business liability insurance in case he or she damages your home or a neighbor's or causes an injury to a third party like your neighbor.

3. Make sure that the deck builder has worker compensation coverage to protect against the risk of claims or financial loss if a worker is injured on your project.

4. Ensure that the contractor's written warranty specifies what is covered and for how long.

5. Make sure that the contractor's name, address, telephone number and business license number are on the contract.

6. Check that the contract contains a full description of the work to be done as well as the materials and products to be used in the construction process.

7. Ensure that the contract states when the work will start and when it will be completed.

Step five involves making sure that a building permit is obtained for the project by the contractor. This will automatically guarantee that the local building codes are complied with and that a local building inspector will visit at required intervals to check on the progress and quality of your deck's construction.

Following these five steps will make the construction process stress free because you will have found a good deck builder qualified to do the job professionally and honestly and who will completed the project to your satisfaction.

So, save yourself a lot of headaches and follow the 5 step to finding a good deck builder.

Richard Vande Sompel is a professional deck builder of 35 years and over 850 decks built and is the author of "How to Plan, Design and Build a Deck from Start to Finish". To Learn More About a Good Deck Builder and Claim your 2 FREE Deck Plans, Insider Report, MP3 Audio and discover everything to know about building a deck visit: http://www.DeckBuildingRevealed.com

Interior Soffit Framing

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

What To Look For When Buying Dining Chairs

Dining chairs are an important feature of any dining room. Central to the functionality and usability of a given dining area are the table and chairs from which family interaction and meals can be enjoyed; making sure that the chairs you buy are designed to last can be both tricky and critical to ensuring you can maximise enjoyment from your dining room for both yourself and your family. So what should you be looking for when you next buy dining room chairs, and how can you best be sure that what you're buying is of a suitable quality to last in your dining room?

Firstly, understand that the scope of available dining room chairs out there is tremendous. From antique, oak chairs and tables through to fold down, metal seats there are simple loads of different types of chairs out there, all of which will require their own individual testing methods to determine whether or not they are suitable for their role. Also bear in mind that whilst it is important to check things out before you buy, you do have legal rights in respect of your purchase which can help you out should things go untimely wrong.

As a general starting point, quality can be derived from the upholstery of the chair. After all, most chairs are constructed of a frame, padding and upholstery, and with the padding concealed (hopefully), that doesn't leave too many other starting points. Upholstery is usually neat on the front facing sides of the chair, but the underside can tell quite a different story. A good quality chair will be well finished on the underside as well as on the upper sides, and it should look to be firmly and tautly attached to the frame. If it's not, this is probably a good sign to stay away.

Next, turn to the frame itself. This is usually only really identifiable by reference to the legs, and even still there is a possibility that these are a separate piece to the frame. The most crucial part to inspect is where the leg joins the seat. You are looking for a solid finish and a strong bond between these areas - preferably the unit will be one piece and so no bond will be required, however where the legs are joined separately it is important to make sure that you are satisfied with both the craftsmanship and the way in which the two major pieces have been bonded together.

Buying dining room chairs can be an anxious experience for the first time buyer or for someone who doesn't really understand what it is they're looking for. However, there are a number of straightforwards ways you can implement to give yourself a better standing when it comes to purchasing all types of furniture - particularly chairs for dining rooms and living areas, such as examining the upholstery and the finish as well as the craftsmanship to help better gauge whether what you're examining is a quality piece of work.

For more information on buying dining chairs, caring for leather chair upholstery or even how to get a good deal on office chairs.

Finding a House Painter - San Deigo Home Tips

There are many reasons why you should hire a house painter, but knowing exactly how to go about it can be confusing. If you want professional-looking results and none of the stress of doing it yourself, follow these few easy steps to finding a painter who fits your needs.

The easiest way to begin your search is through the Internet. Only there can you quickly find contacts and information that can get you on your way to having a beautifully painted home. Using the Internet also has additional benefits that will be discussed later.

In the search engine of your choice, type in your area name followed by the word painter. Focusing your search to painters in your area is important because only they can know exactly the type of paint and method to use for your particular region. Select a few reliable-looking Web sites and begin browsing the company's information, taking notes on each. In particular, be on the lookout for clearly displayed contact details, a promising statement regarding the company's mission, and most important, testimonials and pictures of past work. An accessible Web site that contains testimonials and a portfolio is a sure sign that the painter takes his or her work seriously.

As you are browsing each company's site, take note of the services each offers and if these match up to your current needs. The best painters offer services that include, but are not limited to,

Complete interior and exterior house painting
Specialty and faux finishes
Green/low VOC coatings
Wallpaper hanging and removal
Power Washing and mildew removal
Comprehensive project and surface evaluation
Detailed painting specification and estimating
Color consultation and schematics
Prompt and accurate scheduling
Smart job management and supervision
Thorough surface preparation
Minor carpentry and dry rot repair
Consistent, on time completion of painting projects
Quality workmanship and materials
Two-year free touch up service.

Eliminate any painters from your list that do not offer services for your required project. Once you have narrowed the list to at least two prospects, contact them and invite them to you home to give you a bid. Ask for a copy of the bid to compare with your final bill. All that's left now is to hire the bidder that you feel best matches your needs and price range, and you're on your way to having a beautifully painted house.

Schmidt Painting (http://schmidtpainting.net/) is a Cape Cod painter with more than ten years of experience producing quality work. Rachel Spohn is a freelance writer.

Missing Attic Insulation

Monday, August 10, 2009

Building Your Dream Home - Part 3

Exterior Framing Continues

With the homes sub-floor down and the exterior walls framed and up, the framing crew was on to the roof. Though the roof was rather simple in structure with just a 12/12 pitch and no valleys it was a significant framing undertaking due to just the size and height of it. The house was 32 feet wide by 44 feet in length, and the exterior side walls stood 11 feet tall in the great room. This exterior wall height of 11 feet translated into a roof ridge that was 27 feet off the floor of the great room. Consequently staging was required to install the ridge pole and roof rafters. In addition, since the span from the top of the walls to the ridge was so long, heavy 2x12s were required for the roof rafters. Within a week, however, the team had completed the installation of the roof rafters and the house began to take on real shape.

I should comment briefly about the sub-floor and exterior walls before I move on.

I decided on using tongue and groove plywood for the sub-flooring rather than OSB/particle board as I was concerned that the OSB was too sensitive to moisture. I was concerned about this, both from the construction phase and from normal home use. I was concerned that during the construction phase that snow and ice could potentially lead to damage such as warping. I have seen this before when OSB was used on sub-flooring. I was also concerned that during the life of the home, that there could be water incidents, e.g. a leaking dishwasher or washer machine that also could also lead to water damage to the floor. I also believe that plywood is stronger and that it would provide for a more solid and rigid floor.

Regarding the exterior wall framing I used 2x6 construction. This is typical in New England as the additional wall depth allows for higher insulation factors; a must in colder climates.

Sheathing the Outside of the Home

In order to get plumbing and electric contractors onto a site typically they want the home buttoned up. This includes the roof shingled and the doors and windows on. Thus my framing crew moved onto the exterior sheathing once the walls and roof framing were complete.

As with the sub-floor, I again chose plywood for the exterior sheathing for the same reasons mentioned earlier. On the exterior walls exterior grade plywood was used. On the roof 5/8 exterior grade plywood was used. I know many builders today use OSB for both the walls and roof, however, I still believe for stronger construction plywood is the way to go.

The sheathing effort took about a week to complete. During this time exterior doors and windows showed up on the site. Staging the delivery of material reduces theft and insurance risk as well as keeps a less cluttered construction site. However, as I have indicated earlier, communication is critical when you are doing Just-in-Time material delivery.

Installing Exterior Doors and Windows

The installation of the doors and windows was a major undertaking for this project as the lake side view of the home was literally a wall of windows; 32 feet in width and 27 feet in height. A great deal of engineering had gone into the window design so that the 10 large custom windows would fit together like a jig saw puzzle. This said, when the windows arrived on site and were inspected, it was determined that some of them were not built correctly to the dimensions specified. After much debate with the framing crew, the window vendor and me we reached a compromise on sharing the cost of fixing the windows. The window vendor took back the improperly sized windows and the framing crew began the installation of the doors and what windows they could install. Fortunately the window vendor was able to return to the site with the properly sized windows within a few days and the construction phase did not miss a beat.

Completing the Interior Framing

With the doors and windows installed, the framing crew proceeded to complete the Interior Framing. This was an exciting time, as the rooms began to take real shape. You could now walk down hallways and into bedrooms and closet areas. Within just a few days the interior walls were complete and the framing crew proceeded onto the roof for the shingling.

I should note that 2x4 construction was used on the interior walls as insulation was not required on the interior walls.

Shingling the Roof

The last task to complete before the house could be classified as Buttoned Up was to install the shingles on the roof. Fortunately my framing crew was also able to do this task, thus eliminating the need for yet another subcontractor.

I chose a 30 year architectural shingle due to the quality and look I was trying to achieve on the home.

Though relatively a simple roof, it was quite large and the weather was less than hospitable. Consequently it took nearly 2 weeks to complete this task. However, with the roof complete, my electric and plumbing contractors were now able to begin their work.

Also, with the main house now structurally complete, the framing crew moved onto the garage framing and construction phase. As a result of staging the garage behind the main home construction phase, I was able to have subcontractors work in parallel without getting in each others way.

Rough Electric and Plumbing

With the house Buttoned-Up, my Electric and Plumber subcontractors showed up to begin the roughing in phase of their respective tasks.

Rough Electric

I had met a few days before on site with the Electric subcontractor to discuss the placement of all the wall outlets and switches, as well as where the light fixtures would be situated. During our discussion he marked the wall studs for the placements of the electric wiring boxes so that we could visualize the entire electric wiring scheme. We also marked where the telephone and cable boxes would reside.

During the electrical rough in wiring phase, the electrician installed all the wiring boxes and ran wire from the boxes to where the main circuit panel box would reside.

Rough Plumbing

As with the Electrical Subcontractor, I had met several weeks earlier with the Plumbing Contractor. During this meeting we discussed the form of heat for the home, as well as where the bathrooms and kitchen were to reside in the home. We also discussed types of bathroom fixtures including tubs, sinks and toilets. Consequently, when he showed up on site he new exactly where to run main drain and supply pipes and vent stacks. He also roughed in all of the plumbing for each bathroom and kitchen plumbing fixture.

Within a week both the Electrical and Rough Plumbing contractors had completed their tasks and had successfully passed their respective inspections.

To Be Continued .

In Part 4 of Building Your Dream House, Electric and Plumbing continue and the Kitchen Design is explained. Stay tuned...

Me_Donovan@comcast.net
http://www.homeadditionplus.com
http://www.homeaddition.blogspot.com

Over the past 20+ years Mr. Donovan has been involved with building homes and additions to homes. His projects have included: building a vacation home, building additions and garages on to existing homes, and finishing unfinished homes. Mr. Donovan's formal education and profession have been as an Electrical Engineer and Marketing Manager.

Pools Can Add Value To Your Home

If you're looking to enhance the value of your home, either to resell or for your own personal enjoyment, you might be looking for a pool to increase that value and enjoyment. Here is a comparison of ideas that might help you make that decision a little more easily.

An in-ground pool can run you several thousand dollars but since they come with a variety of shapes and sizes they give you the greatest amount of versatility. You can have a slide and a diving board and a deep end, and if you have a square pool it is easy to swim laps. The shallow end is suitable for water games and youngsters who are learning to swim.

An aboveground pool is much cheaper than an in-ground pool but requires additional decking and fencing for privacy and convenience. Also, the deep end is not very deep and since they are usually round they're difficult to swim laps in. These are good, however, for splashing around on a hot summer afternoon.

However, if you're looking at an aboveground pool you may find that a cheaper but equal alternative is to purchase a large inflatable pool that is big enough for several members of your family. These are not those tiny "kiddie pools" that you see in people's yards. These are actually quite large inflatable pools but are also only suitable for splashing around and not for swimming.

An alternative that many people don't think of is a current pool. These might go under a different name depending on where you live and they are perfect for the serious swimmer who likes to swim laps and does not have a lot of room in their backyard. Sometimes measuring about 8 feet wide and 15 feet long these pools may not seem useful for very much but they create a current, like in a river, that pushes against you as you swim. That way you stay in one place swimming against the current, unlike in a current-less pool where you swim from side to side.

Another alternative is to buy a hot tub instead of a swimming pool. For young children, a hot tub full of non-heated water will still be as enjoyable since the children don't swim but just splash around. And the adults can turn up the heat in the evening and relax.

A swimming pool can be an expensive investment, especially if you don't put a lot of consideration into its usage beforehand. Take some time to think about what your swimming pool needs are now and in the future.

Jeff Lakie is the founder of Pools Information a website providing information on Pools

Wood Fence Damage

Sunday, August 9, 2009

Safe Stair Construction - Stair Building Tips

As a general rule of thumb in stair building the sum of the tread and riser should equal around 17 1/2 inches. This is a general rule of thumb for a comfortable, easy to walk up and down set of stairs.

For example if your stair tread is 10 inches and the stair riser is 7 1/2 inches you have a comfortable stairway. Walking up and down a stairway using this formula creates a comfortable set of stairs. The next time you walk down any uncomfortable set of stairs measure the stair tread and riser. You will be amazed at what you'll find.

For public stairs or heavily used stairs this method will become one of your best friends. On public stairs you have liability issues and of course lawyer issues if you are the owner of the building. If you are not building a safe set of stairs that meets your local building codes standards you could be in for a whopping financial nightmare.

Building safe stairs as a contractor is your obligation to society. I don't know how many times I come across a loose stair tread or a broken hand rail. One of the biggest problems I find is in the poorer neighborhoods you come across some major construction problems and safety hazards. I never have been able to figure out why a building owner would not want to protect himself financially and the people that occupy and use his buildings safety.

Here's something you need to avoid when using the stair building general rule of thumb. This rule of thumb does not apply to good to an 8 inch tread with a 9 1/2 inch stair rise. You don't want to be building a latter you want to be building a safe set up stairs.

The maximum stair rise you can use for most building codes is 8 inches. You will not find the stairway to comfortable with a 9 1/2 inch stair tread and an 8 inch riser. If you have no choice and are cramped for space and you can't redesign this stairway to fit in the house or building then at least make sure you have a nice sturdy grip able stair hand rail.

This formula works great when you are working with exterior landscaping and you have a long run of stairs with a small rise. For example: if you have a 14 inch stair tread and you use a 4 inch riser this will lead to a comfortable step.

Look for stairs in your neighborhood or around some apartment complexes that don't follow these rules and have 16 inch stair treads with 7 inch risers. You will find yourself taking two steps on the stair tread on every other step and it is not a real comfortable stairway.

Happy stair building and keep this formula in mind for a nice comfortable set of stairs in your building future.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He is currently working on more building stairs books and adding useful content to help solve problems created by the lack of construction knowledge in the building industry.

Active Subterranean Termites