Foundation Repair Contractors

If your house or any part of your property experiences foundation failure, it is not a job you want to correct yourself. In order to do this properly you would have to be extensively trained and have a fast knowledge on the subject. This is not your everyday fixer upper project. Chances are to get the job done right; you are going to need to hire a professional. If you are like some people, this might make you a little uneasy. After all, how many times have you heard about contractors taking advantage of their customers? Some not so ethical contractors will charge you more than the job is worth. If you are a little uneasy calling in a professional, here are some basic guidelines for what to expect from a good foundation repair contractor.

The first thing any foundation repair contractor should do is an initial investigation and then a foundation failure report to some extent. Report will explain how severe the problem is and list the proposed repairs needed. If they are going to have to pier, they much included pier spacing and foundation lines in the reports. This takes some time. It might not be a one visit evaluation. A foundation repair contractor may have to come out, do an investigation and then present you with a formal report at a later time that will detail all the work. If you find a contractor who quotes you a price right then and there, chances are they are not a good one. Also do not be surprised if you are charged a fee for the inspection and the report. Most fees range from a few hundred to almost $1000 dollars. Make sure you ask if that fee will be deducted from the final price of the job once ordered. A qualified and ethical contractor will tell you yes. If they say no...stay away from them

Once the investigation is done and a report is ready, a reliable foundation repair contractor will go through it with you and give you the quoted price. They will also explain that quote and answer any questions you may have. If you are getting quotes by a few foundation repair contractors, bear in mind that the prices should not vary much if they are all doing the same work. This is because the materials should pretty much be the same price for all foundation repairmen. One of the possible reasons for the difference of prices between contractors is the amount of experience they have. A knowledgeable, skillful and experienced contractor might cost a little more money than one who has less experience. Keep this in mind when considering the cheapest contractor. Ask questions about their experience to help ensure you are making the best decision for you, your house and your budget.

Once all the work has been done, you should be given a report that contains all the hydraulic measurements and depths regarding the piers. This report should be saved as it will come in handy if you ever decided to sell you house.

Having foundation failure fixed is a costly project, but by following these guidelines, you will be able to find a foundation repair contractor that you are confident with. Make sure they are one who take pride in their work and are not looking for the quick buck.

For the best network of Foundation Repair Specialists check out http://www.Foundation-Repair.us

Steps to Creating Safe Deck Railings

Railings are the most visible element of any deck. They make an instant design statement for all to see and admire from a distance and close up. Deck railings do more than add a safety feature to a deck. They establish the style and limits of the deck space itself. Local building code standards won't affect the nearly endless number of deck design choices and construction choices to be used. Railings are not necessary on all decks but when they are, usually because of the deck's height above ground level, it is important to make a wise choice as to their design and structure.

Step #1 - Deck Height:

Railings are generally required for decks over 36 inches high above ground level and for any set of stairs. However, 24 inches might be a better minimum because in today's society people are more likely to sue a homeowner in the event of a fall. All it takes is one too many drinks and no railing for an accident to occur. In many cases the injured parties who launch these lawsuits are relatives or friends who just happen to be the individuals most likely to be on your deck. It's better to be safe than sorry!

Step #2 - Railing Height:

Railings are generally 36 to 42 inches above a deck's surface. They can be as low as 30 inches or as high as 48 inches depending upon the height of the deck above ground level. The rule of thumb is: The higher the deck; the higher the railing. This is all done for safety considerations. Deck railings can have wood, vinyl or aluminum balusters as well as louvers. They can be built with solid facings that can include plywood siding, plastic panels or tempered glass. However, they need to be a safe height above the level of the deck.

Step #3 - Railing Construction:

Railings are made up of vertical posts capped and joined by a cross member laid flat. The cross member may be the same width or wider than the posts. The spacing distance between the posts depends upon the cap's size and the horizontal rail's length. For example, 4x4 posts can be spaced up to 4 feet apart under a 2x4 cap while 4x4 posts can be spaced up to 6 feet apart under a 2x6 cap.

The strongest and simplest railings are those with horizontal parts secured by bolts or screws to the outside faces of the posts. For a cleaner, more streamlined railing, the horizontals would be placed between the posts. Building codes specify the maximum space between balusters, often 4 inches. Screws and bolts are always a better choice for the construction of railings.

Railings should coordinate with the architectural style of the home in some way. This can be done in terms of materials used, detailing and connections. It is important to check with local building code bylaws to clearly determine the requirements in terms of railing height, material types, lumber sizes, distances between support posts and distances between balusters.

The important things to do in the building of deck railings are to create a railing that complements your overall deck design, to comply with local building codes and to take the time to do the job as well as possible. In no time you'll have a railing system in place on your deck that will be the envy of the neighborhood.

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 Deck Railings 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

10 Things to Consider When Remodeling Your Bathroom

There are many home improvement projects, but few can provide the benefits of a bathroom remodeling project. Remodeling the bathroom can be a great way to add real value to your home while increasing the enjoyment level of yourself and your family.

There are a number of things to consider before undertaking such a major project, however, such as:

1. Have a detailed inspection of your bathroom done before you start. It is a good idea to have a plumber inspect your current bathroom for leaks and other problems. Remodeling time is a good time to fix any leaks and update the fixtures.

2. Pay attention to energy efficiency. Chances are you will be able to save money in the long run by installing low flow toilets, water saving showerheads and other energy efficient fixtures.

3. Sketch out your proposed bathroom design. It is important to plan carefully for what you will do with the space. If you want a larger bathtub, or even a whirlpool, be sure to sketch it out and make sure you have enough space.

4. Pay attention to storage space. Storage space is at a premium in many modern bathrooms. You may be able to use your bathroom remodel to gain more cabinet and storage space.

5. Prepare a realistic budget for the project. No remodeling project can be succes8CDsful without a realistic budget. Take the time to draw up an honest budget, and try your best to stick to it.

6. Shop around carefully. The prices on the same fixtures can vary quite a bit between stores. Be sure to shop around for what you need in order to get the best price.

7. Find a reliable contractor. For most people, remodeling the bathroom is not a do it yourself project. It is important to find a contractor who has experience with plumbing and remodeling bathrooms.

8. Pay attention to color. A fresh coat of paint can make a huge difference when remodeling the bathroom, but many people fail to take this important and inexpensive step. Painting the bathroom with a fresh coat of paint can make a huge difference.

9. Stay organized. Proper organization is essential to a successful bathroom remodeling project. Use a calendar to keep track of important deadlines, and remain organized as you go forward.

10. Keep your eye on the ball. It is important to see the bathroom remodeling project as a whole project. Even though there are many small hurdles to tackle, it is important to see the project as a whole.

For more information on home improvement and bathroom remodeling, take a look at our comprehensive home improvement guide at http://www.get-home-improvement.com.

Brooke Sikula is a freelance writer based in Ventura, CA and maintains her own website at http://www.brookesikula.com. She is also a regular contributor to http://www.homesfix.com.

How To Get Government Grants To Save Energy In Your Home

There are many reasons why its a good idea to save energy in the home these days. To begin with, prices of gas and electricity in Europe have been very high in recent times, and so you can save a lot of money by making your home more efficient. As well as saving money, we all need to do our bit to help fight climate change by reducing the amount of energy we use. Finally, some of the things you can do to save energy in your home, such as installing insulation, can make your home warmer and more comfortable in winter.

The U.K. government and some local authorities are keen to encourage people to save energy in order to help it meet European targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to help people cut the amount they have to pay in energy bills. They offer big grants to help pay for home energy efficiency, such as installing insulation or more efficient central heating. However, you need to know what is available and how to apply

Almost everyone is eligible to receive a major contribution to the cost of installing insulation in their home, or else a more efficient heating system that saves energy. The main way you can do this is by arranging for your insulation or heating upgrade to be done by one of the major national insulation or central heating companies or, alternatively through a major energy supplier. You first need to arrange for a quote from them, and in the quote they should let you know how much you can qualify for in grants. If you agree to the quote, they will then take care of all the paperwork and administration as well as completing the work for you.

Many local authorities will also make a contribution to the cost of insulation and heating improvements. You should look on your local authority web-site, or contact them by phone to see what grants are available specifically from them and how you can apply.

Finally, it is quite possible that you will be able to get all of this work done for free. The UK Government provides up to 2,700 to households where a member of the household is receiving certain benefits. In England the scheme is called Warm Front, In Northern Ireland it is Warm Homes, in Scotland Warm Deal, and in Wales it is the Home Energy Efficiency Scheme. If you receive any benefits, you should contact your energy supplier or a major insulation or central heating installer, and they can tell you what kind of work you can have done for free. When you have the work done, they should also take care of the administration for you, leaving you free to enjoy a more comfortable home and lower heating bills.

Alex Perry is a founder of DownwithCO2.co.uk, which helps people cut their personal contribution to climate change through providing information and contacts.

Affordable Kitchen Renovation With Granite Counter Resurfacing

Kitchen Renewal That Suits To Your Pocket:

There are some basic steps you need to take when you decide to renovate your kitchen. Here I will present to you a quick overview of what you need to do when renovating your kitchen; you will find more details throughout this website. The first step is, of course, deciding on your goals for the kitchen. What do you want your remodel to accomplish for you?

You'll want to do some research even at this early stage. What kinds of materials will you want to use for countertops? Granite is hugely popular, as is Siltstone, which is made from natural quartz and comes in a huge range of colors. What kind of wood do you want for your cabinets, and how light or dark should they be? What about flooring? Then you have to consider which appliances will need to be replaced, how you want the room painted, lighting and any major changes in the layout of your kitchen.

From Where To Start:

Of course, there's one more very important goal for you to consider - your budget! How much will you want to spend? Will you want to get a home equity loan for your remodel or have you saved money up for this project? Now you will want to start sketching out your ideas. You don't need to be a great artist; just 16B5get some graph paper, pen or pencil and a ruler and start mapping things out. Of course, if you are more technologically inclined, you can do this on the computer as well if you have the right software.

Generally speaking, you will want your refrigerator, stove and sink to form a triangle in your kitchen. Include plenty of walking space and room for eating. Will you want an island in your kitchen or will that just be in the way? How will the table fit? You'll also want to look at where outlets are, keeping in mind where you plan on placing your appliances. You may have to move outlets or plumbing if you're rearranging your layout. Don't forget to consider installing extra outlets.

Make sure your sketches include dimensions. Whether you're doing it yourself or hiring professionals, accurate dimensions will help you plan well and give the best feel a paper sketch can give for how your kitchen will look. Many home improvement stores will have kitchen designers on their staffs, and this is a resource you should take advantage of. They'll go over your plans with you and possibly have ideas you haven't considered.

Mull Over You Pocket And Choice:

When the time comes to place your order, make sure your measurements are very, very accurate or you will have a terrible time with your kitchen remodel. You can have professionals come out and do the measurements for you. In fact, if you are having your cabinets and countertops professionally installed, you WILL have professionals out taking measurements. If your measurements are accepted by the store without question and without sending out their own people, you will probably want to shop elsewhere. You're spending too much money on remodeling your kitchen to take that kind of chance.

Your cabinets will, of course, be installed before your new countertops. In fact, until your cabinets are installed, they can't even start work on your countertops if you have chosen granite or Siltstone (or other stone) countertops because they need to make a template. Ask for temporary countertops and a sink to be installed so that you aren't eating out the entire time you're waiting for your countertops to be cut. It might take weeks.

You can also find more info on Granite Countertops and Granite Kitchen Countertops. Kitchengranitecountertophelp.com is a comprehensive resource to know about Kitchen Granite Counter Top.

All About European Bathroom Vanities

One of the good things about European bathroom vanities is that they can be placed in traditional, classical and even modern designs. Since it is highly detailed and elegant, the vanity instantly draws attention to itself as the bathroom's main attraction. European vanities come in various colors, shapes and styles so here are some tips to help you find the right one.

The Old-Fashioned Route

Traditional European bathroom5B4 vanities use a lot of hardwood or are wholly made of it. The most popular woods are Cherry, Oak, Walnut and Redwood. A polished or rustic wood vanity is very effective in providing a European aura. These also create a nice contrast with the mirror and bathroom tiles. It is recommended to give a lot of light to bring out the luster and color of hardwood. You may choose the best color that compliments the area.

Classic European bathroom vanities may either be made of pure dark wood or have several components featuring an overall elegant and rich style. The vanity tries to convey and imitate the classy style of marble through cherry or mahogany. Antique accessories and parts like knobs, pulls and mild accents are perfect for the dark hues. Brass or gold color faucets look great as well creating a very symmetrical and stylish effect.

Modern Europe

Modern European bathroom vanities invest a lot in stone, glass, stainless steel and metal. The luster and brightness of these materials create a contemporary and neat appearance in the room. Colors may also vary widely but most prefer light hues matched with solid black or gray. The mix of dark and light colors in the vanity provides a very sleek and modern feel. Surfaces and doors are very smooth and some may even come without any knobs, pulls or handles.

Mirrors in modern style vanities can come in various shapes and may also be larger in size since these aim to make roo553ms seem bigger. Faucets are almost always made of stainless steel for a hi-tech look. The top is usually stone like marble in solid black or dark brown. The drawers will then have to be white or light beige for a striking contrast. Space is very important in modern vanity designs so cabinets may range up to 48 inches with 6-inch increments. Accessories and other bathroom items are also recommended to be stored in cabinets for a clean look. As much as possible, the surface and surroundings should be free of any item or clutter.

For tips on choosing bathroom vanities, visit http://www.bathroomvanities101.com

Good Conservatory Sunroom

If you are planning to build a conservatory sunroom, it means you want to use the space through out the whole year. To achieve such an end without going over your chalked out budget, you should think about some parts of the design of your sunroom. To begin with, insulation is a vital aspect of designing the conservatory. If correct insulation is overlooked, then one of two, or perhaps both things may happen; you may land up with an uncomfortable sunroom, or you may end up bearing more expenses for adding extra heating and cooling systems than what you had actually bargained to pay for the insulating the conservatory sunroom.

You might also consider what the building code is regarding insulation ethics and then have a discussion with your manufacturer how to maintain those recommendations. For instance, selecting 2X6 studs in place of the more usual 2X4 studs will permit you an extra 2 inches of insulation all through the conservatory.

Secondly, think about the windows. Because they will take in most of your conservatory, you will have to select them with care. Windows not only serve a functional purpose but also add quite a lot to the artistic and creative feel of the sunroom structure. They also make an incredible impact on the budget that you have earmarked for constructing your sunroom.

Glazing is the first element of windows. It should serve two vital objectives; allowing as much sunlight to enter as you will be comfortable in and protecting you from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. Interestingly, there are a few glazes that in fact contribute towards holding the warmth inside your conservatory sunroom, acting as another type of insulation. The materials that form t5B4he windows will have a good deal to do with their pricing as well as how well they insulate. The most expensive windows are those that are made from wood and generally need repairing or retouching at brief intervals. However, they are very much high on energy efficiency.

Then there are windows made from vinyl that are also very energy efficient but come at a moderate pricing. You can choose from a wide palate of colors and these windows are usually low maintenance. Lacking in so much energy efficacy aluminum windows are however, free from maintenance in the majority of cases. The most famous style happens to be clad which are comparatively free from maintenance. They have energy efficiency that complements the wood frames without the expensive pricing.

Keep in mind that when you design your conservatory sunroom whether or not the window is mobile will decide their cost, at least partly. Hence, the more stationary or fixed your window is the lesser cost will your designing of the conservatory sunroom bear. Think about which of the windows you want to keep shut or open and which of them you want to keep fixed so that it gives you the flexibility that you require in utilizing the room, but without shelling out additional money for flexibility that may go to waste.

Still looking for information about patio enclosures317? Andrew Caxton contributes adding content to http://www.allsunrooms.com - More articles on champion sunroom and champion room enclosures at his web.

Remodeling Green Takes The Right Mindset

To a real estate investor remodeling green may mean the money they are going to make from 1C68renovating that ugly house they just bought for a SUCH A DEAL price. To others, it means they want to preserve the earth and not waste energy, building materials or resources when they remodel their home. Some homeowners and contractors look for and use only products that are advertised as being green, or being manufactured in a way that is as non-toxic as possible. They may put in new appliances and HVAC units that are energy efficient. And build new properties with an eye to energy efficiency in the construction methods applied. That's all good.

Another way to remodel green is to think about what may be thrown in landfills when it could be used again. Some demolitions are done too quickly and roughly to save much of anything. Taking some time there can keep hundreds of pounds of good building materials out of the waste stream. I once had someone tease me on a job site because I was taking some time to remove a few nails from lumber. I had found some 14 foot long hardwood 2x6s with no knotholes and two or three nails in each of them. Hey, I'll spend 15 minutes any day to save $100 worth of wood from being dumped. I doubt you could get lumber that good anymore in most places without paying a stiff premium price. Bring me a truckload, please. You woodworkers know what I'm talking about. Yes, there IS wood pretty enough to admire and remember. Think about each component that you are removing, or working on, during a renovation and decide on a way to remove it with the least damage. Someone may want it if you don't. Haste DOES make waste!

One of the tricks I've done is to keep the area of a countertop that has to be cutout for sinks, etc. I install legs using common items I may have recycled from somewhere else and add those little caster wheels that can be bought cheaply in most large home improvement stores. The ones with locking mechanisms are nice. All you have to worry about is smoothing the cut edges and installing edging or simply routing the edge into a nice shape. You can have a matching rolling portable countertop space without spending much time or money. Oh yeah, don't forget to see if someone can use the old countertop and sink for a garage parts washing basin, garden potting center or maybe a fish cleaning station for the outdoors folks.

If you cruise the tool aisles, I'm sure you know about the great numbers of handy dandy gadgety items for sale. Nail sets are nice, but if you don't have one, try using a nail with a slightly larger head than the one you are driving. A tap or two with the nails head to head and your nail is set. Ever seen one of those plastic nail holders that keeps you from banging your fingers and waking the neighborhood cats with your wailing? Try a small piece of cardboard instead. A little notch and your fingers can be protected. Or the plastic spreaders sold to apply many materials. You can use the plastic lids found on many food containers in the grocery store. You can cut a round lid in half and have a nifty spreader of a custom size. Or the plastic pans sold to hold a small amount of the liquid materials for outrageous prices. Try one of those plastic tops they use on bakery cakes, or the microwave convenience food plastic bowls instead . Instead of buying a sanding block, why not try using a small scrap piece of wood from your projects? Egg cartons can be used to organize small items. It's my mission not to let any plastic have only one use in my household. Only problem is, if it is a while before you need them, these saved treasures may change your nickname to pack rat, but multiple use recycling is remodeling green so who cares? You get the idea. Go for it!

For more home remodeling tips and resources visit us at: http://instanthomeimprovement.com/blog

Wireless Home Security

Traditional home alarm security systems rely on sensors that, as long as someone has remembered to turn them on, can detect windows or doors opening. It is a simple cause and effect relationship: a trigger sets off an alarm to alert neighbours or passersby, or an alarm goes off at the police station or the local security company.

The paid, and often expensive, local security company maybe phones to hear if everything is OK, or maybe even drives by. The police might show up if they're not too busy, but the system is prone to many loopholes. The proclivity of false alarms and the dull routine of the job means that security forces are often slow to respond, and the Police are often too busy. However, that was then, this is now. Wireless home security has changed the way we protect our homes. Let's take a look at some of the benefits a modern domestic security system has to offer.

Wireless: Just One Feature of Many
A wireless home security system is more than simply a traditional alarm system minus the cables. There are two keys to the system:
1. The whole system is digital, so you can program it to function in the way you want.
2. The system is part of your home networks.

What does this mean for your home security? If your house is broken into, the system could ring your mobile phone, or send a text message. You could set it to send messages to more than one cell phone. It could be connected to webcams positioned around the house, all accessed from your cellphone or Blackberry. In short, if it can be programmed, it is possible.

The Central Nervous System to Calm Your Nerves
Once you have a wireless home network with a powerful CPU at its heart, you can pretty well add any kind of detector. Why not cover every eventuality and hook up smoke, carbon monoxide, temperature or motion detectors? If anything abnormal takes place in and around your home, you can get a message via your mobile phone. If your mobile phone can access the Internet, the possibilities are even greater. You could call up your browser and get some live footage from your array of webcams, switch to infra-red if it's dark and maybe listen in too. The security possibilities are obvious, but it also sounds like something that would be great fun to play with... so with motivation that high, your home would be safer than ever.

Suddenly you can monitor all kinds of things going on at home without having to be there. Motion detectors and webcams can let you know whether the dog has curled up on your favourite armchair again. You can monitor the temperature of your greenhouse in winter and your wine cellar in summer. And you can even send a message via the network to regulate the temperature before anything gets spoiled. I'm not sure what you'd do about the dog though. 'Train' it when you get back, I suppose.

The Home of the Panic Button
An often overlooked, but extremely useful feature of a wireless home security package is the addition of a panic button. If you have an elderly or infirm family member, a panic button is a must. If someone sounds the alarm, you can pick up your cellphone and find out what is going on by taking a look, listening in or answering the distress call. Perhaps the sound of your voice coming from the loudspeakers would be enough to sooth your confused aunt with Alzheimer's or your sick child off from school. Perhaps you could even shout at the dog to get out of your lazy-boy.

Finally, the big advantage of building up a wireless home security system is its inherent flexibility. You can add, reposition and take away different components such as motion sensors or webcams without having to rip out lengths of wiring. As the hardware becomes more readily available and commonplace, it is falling in price. Upgrading your entire home would have meant employing a team of professionals just five years ago. Now you can do it all yourself after a brief and relatively inexpensive trip to the mall. Nervous about your home security? Give your own central nervous system a break; give your home its own central nervous system.

Chris Lee Ramsden is a freelance writer and editor. He writes both short fiction and non-fiction for both online and print publications. Although he stems from the UK, he currently lives and works in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Find out more about Wireless Home Security and home improvement at Where We Live.

Kitchen Installation - Things To Consider - Part One

Imagine that you've revealed a designer's talent in you and did your best to create a kitchen of your dream. The floor ornament ideally matches the curtain fringing, as well as the vases perfectly match the colour of the lamp. Yet, something is still missing. Kitchen comfort depends not only on your good taste and productive imagination. The air should be fresh but not cold. Materials should possess good cleaning properties, but not be toxic. Just a creative approach is surely not enough - you should study a more down-to-earth side of the question.

Breathe in a chestful of clean air.
The kitchen like no other room in the house requires fresh air. It is especially true if you enjoy cooking and spend a lot of time in the kitchen. The fragrance of grilled chicken or baked layer cake which was not aired on time quickly loses its pleasant flavor. And it is not an appetizing fragrance any more, but a bad whiff penetrating into all rooms of the house. So, if your dwelling still bears the scent of yesterday's ravioli, think, maybe there are problems with ventilation in your kitchen?

It's easy to check if the kitchen extractor works properly. Put the sheet of paper to the air diffuser: if it "adheres" to the hole, then the system is all right.

There can be various reasons of the disabled ventilation: electricity fault, the channel was littered up, or some quick bird nested there etc.

How to choose an exhaust hood.
If you want the air in the kitchen to be clean and fresh, even the best ventilation system will not be enough.

It is known that combustion residue are produced while cooking. It is not healthy to inhale them. Besides, fat and smoke is not good for kitchen furniture, ceiling and walls either. So, you should buy a kitchen exhaust hood or as the specialists call it a canopy hood.

What to choose? First, you should consider performance of the device. The cleanness of the kitchen air can be measured in figures. Multiply the room area by its height. The air should be renewed 10 times per hour according to the sanitary standards. So, let's multiply the volume by ten and we have the required performance of the kitchen exhaust hood. The index 300 m3/h is quite normal for the average kitchen of 3 E 4 metres. If you bake and roast a lot, and like to smoke in the kitchen, you'd better take the hood with characteristics - 400 - 600 m3/hr. On the whole, you can find models from 180 to 1200 m3/hr in the kitchen appliances shops.

Secondly, you should pay attention to the size of the exhaust hood. Standard devices can be 50, 60, 90 or 120 cm wide. Anyway, the exhaust hood must be wider than the kitchen cooker. The principle factor is operating mode of the hood. We have two options: recirculation or air vent. In the latter case the exhaust hood absorbs the air and then releases it. In the first case it goes through the fat filter that refines it from small particles of smoke, ash, fat and then through angle filter that neutralizes the scents. Then the renewed air returns to the kitchen. The extracting mode, of course, is better for eliminating the kitchen scents and such a device makes less noise. You also do not have to change or wash the filters regularly. On the other hand, you don't always have the opportunity to extract the air outside.

There are also versatile hoods which combine both the modes. You can just block the out valve with the special screen (press the button or turn the handle depending on the model), and the air will not go into the pipe, but will be forwarded to the filters and then back to the kitchen.

Finally, as the exhaust hood is not a small device, you should think how it will blend with the kitchen interior.

Kitchen: don't confuse it with sauna!

What is the most humid place in the apartment? A bathroom? Not only. The climate of the kitchen may sometimes be similar to tropical. Especially if you have taken all the measures to make this room warm, but you have forgotten to make the air of normal humidity. This problem can also be solved by setting the ventilation system, as air renewal is very important for creating comfort in the kitchen. In fact you should think about the climate in the kitchen (as well as in the whole apartment).

It is not peanuts!
Beauty and comfort of the kitchen mostly depend on what you have on the floor, the walls and the ceiling.

Let's start with the bottom. It is known, that large drawings on the floor visually downsize the room and small ones visually "extend" the borders. Gloss finishing visually extends the space and matt finishing narrows it.

Kitchen flooring.
However, the main thing in selecting the floor is, of course, the material. Vinyl flooring is durable and modern. Linoleum is also firm and antistatic. Any dirt can be easily removed from it. Even if the stain is "complex", it can be removed from the floor with the solvent agent and the flooring will not be damaged. Natural linoleum is better for the kitchen as it is more ecologically safe. Natural wooden floor looks cozy and at the same time respectably.

Arthur Prudent is a developer of London builders: bathroom, kitchen renovation - web site offering all aspects of builders services. Kitchen installation: things to consider. Part one

Small Bathroom Design Simplified

You will find that majority of the modern homes have a limited bathroom space. Homeowners in such a scenB68ario usually accommodate within that limited space, as they do not have any other option. Thus, it is a fact that the small bathroom designs, which make the best use of the space that is available, are now most in demand by the homeowners.

The following guidelines on small bathroom designs are conveniently applicable in case you are designing a bathroom for your new apartment or renovating your old bathroom.

- The small bathrooms look best with the small and deep bathtubs.

- The wall-mounted or pedestal sinks, basins and the small sized baths are simply made for each other, as they hardly occupy much floor space.

- In case, you prefer a shower stall, it is best to use clear shower screens for the enclosure. The best part of this is you will be able to save enough space and make way for enough light, which is unlike the framed opaque shower walls.

- You can have recessed and floating cabinets in your bathroom; this should make ample space.

- The small bathroom designs usually come with enough storage space for you to be able to stash away lots of clutter. Therefore, ensure that your bathroom has enough storage shelves and cabinets.

- Place the windows near the ceiling; this way, there will be enough wall space for you to include some storage cabinets beneath it.

- You would be clever enough to position the toilet in an alcove, by making use of the wall-space above for fix opening the shelves.

- When it comes to doors, most of the people are going for the sliding doors, which can be easily slid into the in-wall cavities. If you are opting for the hinged door, you can get the towel-rack installed on the door itself.

The homeowners need to abide by certain design - as well as dimension-parameters when planning the small bathroom designs, which depend on the area/zone. You can also try out a few optical illusion tricks for creating a space illusion.

Making use of light and mirrors

When you want the space inside your bathroom to look large, you can take the help of lights and mirrors. Try to make use of natural lights, which would surely make your bathroom look more bright and large, generating a sense of comfy. You can also try adding skylights and windows. This is indeed a great idea. However, when thinking to make use of electric lighting, you can arrange for the source of the light just below where the shelves have been installed.

When you place a mirror inside the bathroom, it helps in proper distribution of light and this seems to extend the overall dimension of the space. Such a strategy makes your small bathroom look effectively illuminated and it gives way to visual expansiveness.

Make use of tricky designs

Introduce vertical lines on the upper edges of the walls of your bathroom. This helps in creating height7B2 illusion. You can also have tiles installed on the walls of your bathroom and edge the top lining with designed border tiles to make things look more magical and impressive.

This is the way you should make use of the floor area of your bathroom and the type of tiles you choose to use for your bathroom should well compliment all sorts of small bathroom designs. No matter what you are going for - floor tiles or wall tiles they should be having identical shapes and light colored shades.

Making use of color to create illusions

Color is the best way of creating space illusions. Choose softer, lighter tones like pastel shades, neutrals or whites - these colors are sure to make your bathroom look as if having enough space and dimension.  Such colors also help in proper light distribution. Again, if you are planning to cover the walls of your bathroom with wallpapers then make sure to select plain and simple designs.

Read our Home Improvement newsletter with new fresh articles every week, Kitchen, Basement, Bathroom improvements and many other subjects at Do It Yourself Tips

Door Hardware - An Overview Of Door Hardware In The 21 Century

The faade of your house is your image to the rest of the world. From the color of the paint to your style of siding, how your lawn is kept or the door hardware you use. When someone comes to the door they can be greeted by a myriad of entry possibilities.

Be it your exterior door hardware or your interior it counts toward style points with your guests and shows your taste and what kind of person you are. From pocket door hardware and sliding door hardware to garage door hardware. The one key exception is in regards to pocket door hardware.

Pocket door hardware is functional and has no bearing on physical appearance. The pocket door hardware includes rails of metal or plastic with rollers or casters that allows the door to glide into and out of an extended wall on either side to seal off a room. The pocket door hardware can be cheap or expensive. The expensive side allows your doors to remain steady and glide shut easily whereas the cheaper will have you seeing your door sag and be tougher to pull shut.

The inlay handles are the one part of pocket door hardware that is decorative. You can get them in silver, gold and plastic. The metal pocket door hardware is able to be etched or engraved which is recommended if you want some style.

Sliding door hardware is slightly less hard to get hold of than that of pocket doors. Their located near the back of the house, leading out to the pool or the deck. The sliding door hardware is primarily a sturdy plastic but it doesnt have to be. It can be replaced with metal of aluminum or you can go high hog and get silver or gold.

Does the sliding door hardware keep the door snug to frame or away from it? Does it hang, suspended or firmly attached? Does the sliding door hardware allow your door to glide softly or squeak in pain when you close it? Choose sliding door hardware based on these thoughts as well as money you wish to spend.

Garage door hardware is often times overlooked, but depending on your style of house its one of the first things people see when coming to visit. Besides the usual garage door hardware we have to have such as a motor, metal beams and the sort. Theyre useful to shop for when you need your door to close smoothly but the look doesnt matter as long as it functions.

The exterior garage door hardware, like the sliding door or pocket door is overlooked. Choosing from handles of aluminum, gold or silver or simple twist knobs to turn and pull open the door also in the styled metals.

The real style points come from the exterior door hardware. Choosing from gold or silver, from knobs to push unlocks. The choices are varied and can sometimes be hard to decide on. Besides the regular door hardware you can select to have knockers affixed along with your door knobs for added flare. This door hardware is not only fun but classical. The lions head is a popular favorite but your regular etched door hardware as a knocker will work just as well and be eye-catching.

Rob Hargreaves - An American Locksmith working for NYC Locksmith Company, Mr-Locks Inc. For more information on installation and repairs of security doors, interior doors, exterior doors, call Mr-Locks now.

Bathroom Decoration Ideas

There are many different ways that you can learn to decorate your own home, there are hundreds of books, videos and even TV shows that all claim to be able to teach you the necessary skills. One of the most popular subjects of these books and TV shows is the bathroom area. There are many different ways that a person can decorate their own bathroom, many new home builders are especially interested in the bathroom dcor ideas as it is seen as one of the most important areas of the house. A person will choose to buy a house often depending on the bathroom and kitchen as these are perceived to be the hardest and most expensive to change. You can do many bathroom dcor projects by yourself, the options aren't simply limited to a change of wallpaper.

Natural Look

When people are decorating houses they often say that they want to bring the outside inside, this is especially popular in the bathroom. Many modern bathroom designs revolve around the idea of having the shower located in the middle of the bathroom. Large windows are used to bring the outside in, and can lift everyone's moods. Whether you have installed drywall to be painted or have other types of wall coverings can also effect the mood of the room. But by giving the room a more open feel, you need to be sure you have the privacy surrounding your home to do this.

Luxurious bathrooms often have large Jacuzzi tubs beside the picture window so that people can relax while looking at the outstanding beauty of your garden. More practical items such as a heated towel rails are also included in modern designs. These huge windows will make sure that there is plenty of light in the whole room during all of the day.

You can make your bathroom more beautiful by including some tropical and flowering plants, if your bathroom is very big then you could consider a small potted tree. It's a nice idea to use natural stones wherever possible, and bamboo accessories work well in natural look bathrooms!

There are hundreds of different ideas which you could consider when decorating your bathroom, there are dcor ideas specifically aimed at children. There are also themed bathroom ideas including royalty and animal designs. Who wouldn't like to feel like a queen sitting on the throne? If you are at all unsure then go to a designer for advice, they have a lot of experience and will know what will work well in any bathroom. Your bathroom is used every day, by everyone in your house. It's no wonder that it needs money spending on it occasionally. The key is to have fun with your bathroom design, hopefully everyone else will enjoy it as much as you!

Being interested in drywall hanging and drywall screws, Clinton Maxwell wrote different papers in this particular field. You might see his contributions on how to hang drywall and drywall screws at http://www.insidewoodworking.com .

Home Decorating Tips - How to Change a Rooms Dimension Using Wall Pictures

The Basic Role of Pictures

Wall art plays an important role in interior design as it helps create the ambience of a room. By cleverly placing wall pictures in certain ways, you can change and create a new look and feel in a room.

The role wall pictures play in interior design are:-

• pictures, mirrors or other ornamental accessories on walls help make the room look 'lived in' and they also inject your personality into the room;
• color pictures and prints help connect with the rooms accent;
• pictures help absorb noise in a room, otherwise a room with totally bare walls will sound empty and will have an echo;
• pictures and prints can help enhance or change a room's 'look and feel'.

How to Lengthen a Room

If you have a small room in your house, you can easily achieve the illusion of length. This can be done in two ways. If you like bold statements then simply paint a couple of horizontal lines in a bold color across the middle of the wall in which you want to lengthen. These lines then naturally create the illusion of increased length in the room. An alternative way to do this, and a more subtle way, is to use pictures.

By strategically placing art pictures or photographs with any kind of strong horizontal line in the print, can accomplish the illusion of length. For example, if you chose two or three long rectangular pictures with horizontal panoramic prints such as ocean & beach pictures, fields, or scenic mountain pictures, then this will help extend the length of the room naturally.

Two, three or more of these horizontal landscape pictures will give the maximum impact you are looking for to help lengthen a small room. Also bear in mind not to overdo the room with furniture. Too much clutter makes a room appear smaller.

How to Broaden a Narrow Room

If you have a room which is a bit on the narrow side, there is a simple strategy to make the room appear broader. All you need is a tin of paint, a wall mirror and a large colorful wall picture.

Get your tin of paint, which should preferably be a darker contrasting color to your other walls, and paint one of the walls with this darker paint. Find a colorful and lively large painting and hang it on the wall you have just painted - colorful flower pictures are ideal for this.

On the wall adjacent to your picture, hang a decorative large mirror. What has happened here is that the mirror reflects on the large picture, and the additional darker color on the wall has immediately given the room some much-needed depth. This combination will then make the room appear wider.

By adding these simple additions to your narrow room, you have instantly created a balance in the room's dimensions giving the sensation of additional space.

How to Heighten a Low Ceiling

Rooms with low ceilings give an oppressive feeling, whereas rooms with a high ceiling give a light and airy feel with a large amount of space. To overcome the problem of a low ceiling, there are a couple of interior design strategies to use.

First of all put down a darker floor covering, whether it be a wooden floor, carpet or lino. Paint the walls with a lighter color than the floor, or use light colored wallpaper. If you can, use white paint for the ceiling as this always gives the room maximum light and instantly draws the eyes upwards.

Hang up wall pictures with strong vertical lines as this then gives the impression of height. Use portrait prints such as vertical landscapes, i.e. lighthouses, trees, cityscapes, or floral prints such as flowers in a560 vertical vase or tall long stem roses. Therefore, by combining the dark floor, light walls and ceiling and portraits prints, all adds to the sense of height in a room.

Summary

Art pictures and prints play an important role in home decorating for several reasons. They do not only reflect and put your own personality into the room, but they can also help as a solution to change the look and feel of a room by giving the illusion of height, width and length. This can easily be achieved by combining wall pictures, contrasting colors and decorative mirrors.

Claire Bowes is a successful freelance writer and owner of Online Home Improvement Ideas.

Weathervanes - Eye-catching Outdoor Fixtures

If you live in the suburbs, then you know how bland and boring the outdoor look of homes can be. There are covenants, rules, and regulations set in place where everything needs to look the same so property values do not drop. But, if you are sick of seeing all the cookie cutter homes and want yours to stand out a bit, then turn to lovely weathervanes. One would be a spectacular way to give your home a unique, one of a kind appearance.

With weathervanes, you get a lot of options so you can easily find the perfect one to match your style, space, and personality. For example, these fixtures come in different sizes so you can find just the right one to go on your rooftop, deck, shed, or even in your garden. Along with the different sizes, there are many eye-catching themed selections. Like, maybe you are into the outdoors and wildlife, well, some awesome options for you then are those that are in the shape of elk, moose, wolves, trout, pine trees, pelicans, hawks, eagles, and many, many others. Or, maybe you are into farm animals, some nice options for you then are ones that are in the shape of a rooster, chicken, cow, pig, horse, and even a cowboy.

As you can see, there are many weathervanes that are available and those just mentioned are just some of the alternatives. Some others include ones that look like trains, some that ocean themes, and others that are even in the shape of your favorite college teams logo. For a great way to see all the wonderful options, one fast and easy way is by hitting the Internet for some online shopping. You can browse all of the selections in no time flat and do not even have to leave the comfort of your own home to do it.

One thing to keep in mind when looking into weathervanes and purchasing one for your outdoor space is to get one that is crafted out of a top quality material. If you go with something cheap, then you will be disappointed when it needs to be replaced because it has broken down under the outdoor elements. Now, some of the better options include ones made from aluminum, steel, and the ever popular copper. Along with being durable, these materials are also very appealing to the eye and only add to the beauty of your selection.

If you are not allowed to put up a weathervane on your home, but still want to give your outdoor space a unique look, you still can because there are other outdoor accessories available that allow you to do just that. Like, you could get a sundial for your front porch, a birdfeeder for place on your front lawn, or outdoor wall art for your siding. Other nice outdoor accessories include rain cups, 1119decorative thermometers, and wind chimes.

So, if you are looking to make your home stand out from the rest, turn to gorgeous weathervanes. One would be a fabulous, decorative edition to your outdoor space.

As the owner of many online sites, author Jennifer Akre, shares her insight on how to make your outdoor living space more stylish with classic copper weathervanes, charming garden finials and the timeless beauty of a weathervane cupola.

Why Sauna Purists Prefer Steam Saunas

Although far infrared saunas have risen in popularity over steam saunas in recent years, many purists continue to herald the benefits of traditional saunas.

Differences between Infrared and Steam Saunas

Although both are designed to achieve many of the same objectives - the achievement of relaxation a144And enhanced well-being through the use of therapeutic heat - there are many disparities between steam and infrared saunas:

• As a general rule, a steam sauna uses moist heat, while an infrared sauna uses much drier heat.

• While modern infrared saunas can be built from molded plastic, steam rooms use natural hardwoods (traditionally pine or cedar) for the ceilings, walls, flooring, and benches.

• For their heat source, traditional saunas use piles of stones placed on an electric, wood-burning, or gas heater. When water is poured over the stones, a burst of steam is produced. Far infrared saunas, on the other hand, are powered by infrared heaters.

Benefits of Steam Saunas

Whether you choose a modern infrared sauna or a more traditional sauna is ultimately a matter of personal preference. While both share many of the same benefits, steam enthusiasts maintain that traditional saunas offer a unique set of advantages:

• After a long, hard day, a steamy sauna serves as a source of relaxation and stress reduction, similar to that of a warm bath.

• Saunas using steam have been shown to open up the pores and provide thorough cleansing of the skin, resulting in a radiant, healthy glow.

• Users of steam rooms have reported increased blood circulation, which is crucial for good heart health and an overall enhanced sense of well-being.

• The moist heat of steam has been linked to easing muscle tension, joint stiffness, and even arthritis.

• By opening up the pores and flushing sweat out through the skin glands, steam saunas help to kick-start the purification process, flushing any toxins out of the body.

• High amounts of steam heat have been linked to excess burning of calories and fat cells, promoting faster weight loss.

• Steam sauna sessions speed up your heart rate, mimicking the effects of a cardiovascular workout and helping to give your metabolism a boost.

• Because sweat doesn't evaporate as it does with infrared saunas, saunas using steam can make it seem as though the user is sweating more profusely, which in turn gives the impression that they're getting more out of the experience. In an infrared sauna, sweat evaporates and dries on the skin, sacrificing body heat.

• Steam inhalation is a proven method of relieving such respiratory afflictions as asthma, bronchitis, and sinus blockage. Even those with severe allergies have reported noticeable improvement after regular sauna steam sessions.

• Athletes have long enjoyed sauna steam sessions after strenuous workouts as a way of relieving and repairing muscle tissue, promoting quicker recovery, and preparing for more activities. (Fun fact: the Finnish Olympians bring along a portable sauna to all of their games.)

• Traditional sauna advocates enjoy the all-natural aroma that comes with water and fresh-cut wood.

Cleaning & Maintenance of a Steam Sauna

To prevent the spread of bacteria and promote a sanitary environment, it's necessary to periodically clean your sauna. We recommend using a ceramic tile cleaner and a soft rag to clean the floor and walls of your sauna at least once a month, preferably once a week, to preserve the quality and freshness of the wood and to ensure that it doesn't mold or rot from the prolonged moisture. If using a steam generator to pipe steam into a steam shower enclosure, be sure to perform regular draining of the generator.

Before Entering a Sauna...

Similar to launching a new exercise regimen, it's a good idea to check with your doctor to ensure that you have no health restrictions that would make a steam sauna session potentially dangerous for you to use.

About the Author:

Kevin Urban is the editor for http://www.sauna-talk.com, a comprehensive guide to infrared and steam saunas. His articles cover commercial saunas and he explains how to build your own sauna with an easy-to-assemble kit.

Copyright 2008 Sauna-Talk.com

Permission is granted to publish this article on your site providing all links are included and clickable.

London Builders - How To Increase Your House Value

Professional advice reduces costly mistakes in home improvements when you are looking to raise your property value. Big decisions to make change your home require extensive planning to ensure you get the added value you want with NO mistakes.

In a recently published survey by The Nationwide Building Society, the most common types of home improvement have been rated in terms of the percentage value they are likely to add to a property. The results are as follows:

Added Value to property %

Extension - large kitchen / family room into garden area 15%

Extension - adding floor space 12%

Extension - extra bedroom by adding floor space (2 bed to 3 bed) 12%

Extension - extra bedroom by adding floor space (3 bed to 4 bed) 8%

Alterations - extra bedroom without adding floor space 6%

Loft Conversion - extra bedroom and en-suite 21%

Adding an extra bathroom or en-suite 5%

Off-street parking space 6.5%

Garage - detached or integrated 7-14%

Double glazing 5%

Central heating value added 7%

Making the most of your home

Kitchens

Choose units that will not date and where-ever possible fit granite worktops. The kitchen should be of a generous size and preferably ove1C64rlooking the rear garden.

Bathrooms

White sanitary fittings are a must. A 4 bed house should have 1 bathroom and 1 ensuite, a 5/6 bedroom house should have 1 bathroom and 2/3 ensuites.

Downstairs

WC

A downstairs toilet can be located almost anywhere. An external window and separate lobby are now not required. A downstairs WC is on most home-buyers wish-list.

Reception Rooms

Preferably a house of over 4 beds should have at least two separate reception rooms. One of the reception rooms shoud have an outlook to the rear garden. Layout

An aspect often overlooked. The layout and circulation of a house should flow. Increase circulation space when adding extra rooms and avoid through-rooms.

written by Brook Adyn
http://www.londonrefurbs.com
info@londonrefurbs.com

Your Best Bet At Hiring A Good Carpet Cleaning Company

In most cases, we look to hire a good carpet cleaning company because we do not have the time to clean our own carpets. Furthermore, they do a great job at getting rid of stains that a standard cleaner cannot get rid of. Therefore, we find that hiring a cleaning company is our best option. Before we choose just one company, you should know how to choose a good carpet cleaning company.

Before you hire any company, there are several very important questions that you should be asking.

First, do they guarantee their work? You want a company that guarantees their work. If they do not, you can almost be sure that you are not dealing with a reputable business and should take steps to find another one.

Second, do they belong to any type of association? Reputable and honest carpet cleaning business will likely belong to some sort of association, such as PCUCA (Professional Carpet and Upholstery Cleaners Association) or the NCCA (National Carpet Cleaners Association).

Third, you want to ask if they are bonded and insured? You do not want a cleaning company that is not insured or bonded. This could be asking for trouble. If they damage your carpet or furniture you want to be sure that it is covered by their insurance.

Fourth, are they certified and licensed to clean carpets? This means they know what they are doing. They have taken the necessary courses and tests to get their certificates and licenses, therefore, you can trust their knowledge.

Finally, ask them why they think they are better than their competition in the same area? What do they offer? Are they fast? Why do they think they are the company to go with? Knowing this can help you make the best decision for your carpet cleaning needs.

Asking these questions allow you to avoid many problems. If you have heard horror stories, making sure that you take the time to choose the right carpet cleaners is important. This way you can avoid getting a company that doesn't have any idea as to what they are doing. You can also avoid a company that uses the wrong chemicals, saturates the carpet, discolors your carpet, or simply causes a great amount of damage that you do not need and likely cannot afford. Make sure you ask all of these questions before you choose a carpet cleaning company.

Find out more about carpet cleaning services by visiting Cleaners-Carpet.com, a site to help you understand the products, chemicals, machines, and services available to clean you carpets.

Should You Build A Conservatory Sunroom

It is impossible to enjoy your new addition in the winter, which is the most common complaints about a conservatory sunroom, not any more. New technological advanceB68s along with the millions spent by manufacturers will eliminate that complaint finally. With these new advances not only, will a conservatory make an elegant addition to your home? It will be one that you can use all year round. When you start viewing possible conservatory sunroom to purchase, keep in mind the design of your existing home, that may limit some of the options you may be wanting when you purchase your new sunroom.

Another frequent complaint about these types of conservatories is the glass ceilings, as well as the glass walls. which in turn brings us back to the original most commonly heard complaint, it is just too cold in the winter. A general rule of thumb is that most conservatory sunrooms are sold as a 3-season sunroom; this type of sunroom is only used during the warmer months. If you are like many others and want to use your conservatory year round, make sure you purchase one that is specifically designed for all season use.

The Possibilities are endless when you chose to add a conservatory sunroom or patio room to your existing home. There are also several reasons for this as well, adding a sunroom or patio room adds elegance to your home, it also add an enjoyment for all the seasons, winter, summer, spring, and fall, the biggest thing is that it is an investment into your home, adding value into your home should you decide to sell in the future, which could in turn help you sell your home it allows the potential buyer to see the elegance and relaxation factor you have added to your home and may help persuade their decision to make an offer on your home. That is why it is essential to do your research before you purchase your new sunroom, below you will find information on the all season conservatory just as mentioned above.

The all season Conservatory

Only the latest materials will be used in building this type of conservatory sunroom, enabling you to enjoy this new room all year round, no matter the season. Then comes the next question that is commonly asked, How will I afford to heat this room in the winter months without having a huge energy bill? Insulation is the key, local building codes in your area will tell you what the minimum requirement is, but if you want a comfortable room all year long, a good suggestion is to exceed that requirement. When insulating make sure you insulate the floor, the walls, the frame work, and the ceiling, pack these areas with insulation above the standard minimums to ensure proper heat storage during those winter months, this will help reduce some of your energy costs as well, another way to reduce on out-of-pocket energy costs are windows. Window selection is very important in your new conservatory sunroom, the concept of a window is easy enough, they allow sunlight to enter and protect you against the harmful UV rays that the sun generates, and they provide insulation5B2 for your home as well.

You need to look for the window frame and glass together, and good quality ones at that. You do not want a leaky window especially around the frame, because you do not want to feel a draft, or hear noises from a poorly crafted window and its frame, you would like to keep those elements out of your new conservatory sunroom. Another question that arises, What about security, all my walls are made of glass? This will depend on you and the quality of window and the design you chose, of course, a higher quality window and a higher quality design will provide you with better security to protect you and your conservatory. As with any project, you need to do your homework, chose the design, and style that fits you and your home.

The Possibilities are endless when adding a sunroom or patio room to your existing home. There are also several reasons for this. Adding a sunroom or patio room adds elegance to your home. It also add an enjoyment for all the seasons, winter, summer, spring, and fall. The biggest thing is that it is an investment into your home. Adding value into your home should you decide to sell in the future, which could in turn help you sell your home allows the potential buyer to see the elegance and relaxation factor you have added to your home and may help persuade their decision to make an offer on your home.3BA

You can also find more info on seasons sunroom and decorating sunroom. Sunroomkitsreview.com is a comprehensive resource to improve your home environment.

How A Home Design Software Can Decrease Home Building Costs

If you're scared about redecorating your home because you might end up wasting hundreds or even thousands of dollars once you find out the outcome is not as great in real life as how you pictured it, better hold the urge and think about getting a home design software.

What can it do?

A home design software allows you to preview your redecorated home even before you do the actual decorating and constructing. It's a computer program where you can recreate a three-dimensional image of your home, including floor plans and room interiors. With a home design software, you can visualize your dream home to the very last detail prior to construction.

Types of Home Design Software

Generally, you have a choice of tree types of software: landscape home design, 3D model home design, or coordinating home design.

A landscape home design is especially programmed for creating outdoor design plans, including plumbing layouts and electrical systems. You can use tools for creating customized windows, trims, and doors. As the name suggests, it is ideal for landscaping projects for your garden, patio, or lawn.

A 3D model software, on the other hand, is used for creating spatial designs for rooms and interiors. With this software, you can choose from common objects such as tables, chairs, tubs, tiles, and countertops and drag and drop them to the layout. The coordinating design software is for designing both interior and exterior features, including doorways an floors. It is available in two- or three-dimensional perspectives.

Recommended Home Design Software / Consumer Information

A complete Guide to HOME DESIGN SOFTWARE is available in Picky Guide one of the fastest growing online magazines giving free consumer advice and product information.

Cabinet Door Hinges - A Hardware Option That Is Perfect For Improving The Look Of Your Cabinetry

Feel like sprucing up the look of your kitchen or bathroom cabinetry, but don't want to take on a refurbishing project to do it? If that is the scenario that you're faced with, there is actually an easy way to revamp their appearance. All you have to do is purchase some new cabinet hardware for it, including cabinet door hinges. With the new hardware in place, your cabinets will have never looked better.

Really, getting new cabinet hardware like cabinet door hinges is an excellent way to improve the appearance of your cabinetry? How is this possible, well it is becauE54se of their gorgeous look that is the result of the many eye-catching metals that they can be made from, which are then finished off in a number of lovely ways. For example, you can get ones that are made from brass that are then polished and have a bright appearance to them. Or, you can also get ones made from brass, but instead of the polished finish they have a burnished one. Some of the other metals they can be crafted from include steel, stainless steel, wrought iron, and aluminum while some other finishes are brushed, hand rubbed, and distressed.

What is great about all the material and finishing options is that it creates cabinet door hinges and other hardware of all different types and styles. Like, the ones that have the regular polished finish are those that are on the traditional side while the ones that are burnished would be more antique. There are other style options as well including those that are more modern in appearance and others that have a colonial feel, making it easy for you to find exactly what you want for your space.

When buying your cabinet hardware, make sure to replace all the hardware on your cabinetry. This is essential since if you don't, you're going to end up with this weird looking creation that will not be all that appealing to the eye. So, get everything from the start at that includes those cabinet door hinges that have previously been mentioned along with knobs, drawer pulls, and drawer slides. Yes, drawer slides because believe it or not, people end up looking at your drawers when you open them and if they see they don't match, then what kind of message is that going to send? Not a good one to say the least.

To easily check out all the cabinet door hinges you can get along with the other hardware that is out there, just go online and do some shopping. Really, online shopping is the way to go because you don't have to go anywhere besides your computer room to do it and in an instant you can breeze through all the selections available. And, when you do come across something you want and purchase it, it will be shipped right to your home. Really, nothing is more convenient.

Ultimately, if you want to spruce up the look of your kitchen or bathroom cabinets, but don't want to spend a lot of time and money doing it, just replace its hardware, including its cabinet door hinges. It's a simple way to make a great decorative impression and will have people coming to your for home interior advice.

Author Jennifer Akre is the owner of a wide variety of online speciality stores that provide consumers with both information and products perfect for either their indoor or outdoor space. Today, she offers valuable advice to consumers when purchasing luxurious cabinet hinges, elegant door hinges, and lavish hinges.

An Informative Bulletin On Stucco Siding

This article deals with all the questions that you may have about Stucco siding. In case you would like to have it installed in your homes, this is a must read for you.

Stucco siding has been used since ancient times. Still widely used throughout the world, it is one of the most common of traditional building materials. Up until the late 1800s, stucco, like mortar, was primarily lime-based, but the popularization of Portland cement changed the composition of stucco, as well as morta5B4r, to a harder material. Historically, the term "plaster" has often been interchangeable with "stucco"; the term is still favored by many, particularly when referring to the traditional lime-based coating.

Traditional stucco is a cement mixture used for siding, usually on Mission or other Spanish style homes. The cement is combined with water and inert materials such as sand and lime. Usually, wooden walls are covered with tar paper and chicken wire or galvanized metal screening. This framework is then covered with the stucco mixture. Sometimes, the cement mix is applied directly to specially prepared masonry surfaces. These techniques were elaborated by the Italians during the Renaissance and spread through Europe. This marble dust compound could be molded into decorative shapes, polished to sheen or painted.

Most stucco siding deterioration is the result of water infiltration into the building structure, either through the roof, around chimneys, window and door openings, or excessive ground water or moisture penetrating through, or splashing up from the foundation.

The most common treatment is to whitewash it, often annually. The lime in the whitewash offers protection and stability and helps to harden the stucco siding. Most importantly, it fills hairline cracks before they could develop into larger cracks and let in moisture. To improve water repellency, stucco buildings are also sometimes coated with paraffin, ano5B1ther type of wax, or other stucco-like coatings, such as oil mastics.

Stucco Siding - The Way of The Future?

Stucco siding is primarily used on residential buildings and relatively small-scale commercial structures. Original and natural stucco are hard and moisture resistant. Synthetic stucco however, though may look authentic, but may not be as strong and durable as the natural ones.

With stucco siding, you have way more flexibility in playing around with the decorative effects it offers. It has the property of blending into the environment. Therefore, whatever color your house has been painted with will complement the stucco siding. This is because at the time of manufacture of the stucco, pigments can be mixed with the stucco and one can get hundreds of shades of the same color. Therefore, the color of it can be made to match that of your house.

You can also find more info on harsh weather conditions and siding products. Homesidingreview.com is a comprehensive resource to know more about home siding review.

Keys To A Successful Home Renovation Project

Contemplating some home improvements? Whether it is a small project or a major renovation there are two primary keys to success:

1. Planning: Have you considered what disruption the project will have on you and your familys day to day ability to function? As an example, laying some ceramic tile on the bathroom floor may take the bathroom out of service for two days. In a one bathroom home this could prove to be a major obstacle to any bathroom renovation. Kitchen renovation can also cause complexities if major appliances have to be temporarily moved, besides the necessity to make sure floor surfaces are not damaged while providing a temporary relocation, refrigerators need to be powered. Even a small project such as repainting a room can create major inconveniences because of furniture relocation and paint odors.

Always make a list of material and tools that you will require, before starting the project. Then make sure you know where the tools and material (the material that you believe you already have iBB2s) are, collect them, verify that they are useable and then place them all in a convenient location so that you can find them when you need them.

Permits are part of the planning process. Depending on where you reside the permit and inspection rules will vary. Why is a permit necessary? It ensures that you are following the building codes in your area and that the renovation or home improvement will be inspected to ensure compliance and safety. Many home insurance policies are automatically voided if you do renovation projects that required permits and you did not comply. In some areas the process of obtaining a building permit can take months, so start your permitting application early in your overall plan.

2. Knowledge: Whether you are going to do the project yourself or hire a contractor, knowledge is the second key to ensuring that the job will be completed to your satisfaction. Invest some time in learning about the materials that you are going to use and the tools needed to install them. Believe it or not the manufacturers of the materials and products that you are going to use know more about them than you do. If a manufacturer says allow the adhesive to cure for 24 hours before applying the grout, dont apply the grout in 12 hours. If a manufacturer says that his flooring needs to acclimatize in your home for 72 hours before installation, dont bring it home and immediately start installing it.

If you are hiring a contractor you must check his references and you must understand what material he is intending on using. There are vast differences in quality levels of materials. As an example, if a contractor says he will install an oak plank hardwood floor, there are many questions to ask about the grade, dimensions and finish of the material. Prices can vary from $2.00 to $15.00 a sq. ft.

Proper planning and knowledge will make a big difference in the overall success and satisfaction with your next home improvement or renovation project.

Renovation Headquarters provides information on home improvement, renovation, remodel, landscaping and gardening. A help center allows you to ask an expert for advise. For additional information on all the aspects of home renovation visit Renovation Headquarters.

The Basics of House Painting

Your house is your lifetime asset. And it's a matter of time when you take a notice that your house needs renovation - not because it's getting old, but because you feel the need of vibrant colors in your house.

Repainting your house is a tricky business. Some rely on painting companies to do the job for you. Hiring the house painting service may also cost you. But if you are planning to paint it yourself, you might want to consider the basics; and consider the time and effort you will put on pain1C84ting your house.

PAINT

There are many types of paint available today, some giving different surface finishes, others are designed for a particular application. Choosing the correct paint type may appear to be confusing at first, but once you have projected which theme you would like to paint your house and sorted out which job and what finishes you want, the choice is rather easy.

There are two bases of paint for your house: solvent-based (oil or alkyd) and water-based (latex). Oil-based paints dry slow - usually taking up to 24 hours. The best clean up for an oil-based paint is turpentine or paint thinner. Latex paints' advantage is that it dries relatively fast, but it is not desirable in hot weather or direct sunshine. The best clean up for latex paints requires just soap and water. So if you are painting the inside of your house, it is recommended to use water-based paints, while solvent-based paints are suggested for painting the exterior of your house.

There are different types of paints that is either water-based or solvent-based that produces different finishes that is measured by its sheen factor. "Sheen" is a term used to describe the degree of light reflection the paint has. Lesser sheen for an interior or exterior paint means it has lesser stain resistance.

A Gloss paint is easy to clean and resists scuffs better. This is ideal for rooms that are constantly used. Most gloss paints are best recommended to use on woodworks, baseboards, kitchen and bathroom walls, doorjambs, and window casings. The downside of using gloss paints, however, is the noticeable imperfections in the wall surface.

A High-gloss paint is highly reflective and works well for highlighting details, such as trim and decorative molding. They are also the best choice for doors and cabinet - or any area that sees a high volume of abuse.

Semi-gloss paints are very similar to gloss plaints except it has lesser sheen. Semi-gloss is also suitable for rooms with high humidity (best used for children's room) and can be used for trim works and casings. These paints ensure maximum durability.

Eggshell paints provide a smooth and low-sheen finish. Paints that are smooth and low-sheen that is ideal for your living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, and dens. It is washable and ideal for bedrooms, hallways, home offices and family rooms.

Satin paints offer a good combination of easy-clean and moderate sheen. These paints go a step above eggshell in scrubbing ability. They perform and look great in just about any room.

Flat paints (matte paints) are non-reflective and always a good choice for large walls and ceilings. Flat paints hides imperfections on wall surfaces and spatters well during application. Flat paints are the best choice for vinyl and aluminum siding that is scratched or dented because it hides imperfections and spatters less when applied. These paints are ideal for low-traffic areas such as formal dining rooms and master bedrooms.

Special paints have been innovated from different consumer insights and brilliant paint technology that allows specific paints for specific needs.

Ceiling flats are designed specially for ceilings. These are usually extra spatter-resistant.

Primer paints may be oil- or water-based and are used to seal unpainted surfaces to prevent covering coats of paint soaking in. The appropriate type of primer should be used for the surface being painted - wood, metal, plaster or tiles. There are some 'all purpose primers' available which are designed for two or more of these surfaces.

Anti-condensation paints are used for rooms with humid conditions such as kitchen and bathrooms. This paint is usually formulated to prevent condensation and often includes fungicide.

Fire-retardant paints do not resist fires completely but its fire-resistance formulation prevents it from fire in spreading fast.

It is also important that before painting your room, you use a primer. A primer will help paint adhere to the surface by providing a uniform appearance. It is a must to use a primer if you are painting over new wood, bare wood, drywall, or repainting over existing bright or dark colors.

But before doing this, you have to know the condition of the surface you wanted to paint. Regardless of whether the base coat is oil or latex, you must dull glossy paint by sanding or de-glossing it with a chemical de-glossing product. If you don't dull glossy paint, the second coat will streak and not stick to the base coat when drying.

INTERIOR PAINTING

If you want to alter your room's ambience, painting it is a great option. When interior painting, use paints that are quicker to dry and does not have a strong odor that lingers around where your kids can smell it.

Painting the interior of your house requires a thorough estimation, visualization and preparation. When you have chosen your theme for your rooms and have bought the job materials you need (paints, paint brushes and rollers, extension handles, paint tray, paint stirrer, drop clothes, step ladder, painter's tape, etc.), you simply follow these interior house painting tips:

BEFORE AND DURING HOUSE PAINTING

Always provide adequate ventilation when painting inside your house. If you cannot get enough ventilation in the work area, use a respirator or a mask.

Keep paint containers or solvent containers closed when not in use.

Keep paint products out of the reach of children.

Avoid direct contact with skin.

Always read packaging (label) instructions.

SURFACE PREPARATION TIPS

Remove as much as furniture as possible from the room or group the heavier fixtures and the delicate ones together and cover them with a drop cloth.

Provide adequate lightning to allow a good view of painting imperfections.

Remove switch plates.

Patch holes and cracks in the surfaces you wanted to paint with premixed spackling paste. After the paste dries, sand the patched the areas.

Dust and wash the ceilings, walls, baseboards, windows and door moldings.

Clean, sound wallpaper can be painted over, but in most cases it is better to strip it. Painting over a wallpaper may begin to peel.

PAINTING YOUR CEILING TIPS

If you are painting the entire room, it is best to paint the ceiling first!

If you are using a paint roller, maneuver your arms in series of diagonal swaths (forming a letter M). Fill in the open areas by cross rolling.

If you are using a paintbrush, apply the paint in short strokes towards the unpainted area, known as "wet to dry." Then brush back into the area you just painted for a smooth surface.

If you are painting your ceiling, remove light bulbs, chandeliers, fluorescent lights and fixture covers.

Paint trim first, including edging around the ceiling, molding, and trim.

WALL PAINTING TIPS

Paint around the trim first, including edging around the ceiling.

When painting with a gloss finish, make the final brush strokes away from the light source of the room. The tiny ridges that a brush leaves won't be as pronounced. Use the same "wet5B4 to dry" method of painting.

WOODWORK

Check woodwork for damage. if there is one, patch it with a wood filler, dry it overnight and sand it for any rough spots and apply a sealer before painting.

If you'll be using the same paint on the walls and woodwork, paint the woodwork as you come to it. If it is another color of higher in gloss, wait until the walls are done.

Paint double-hung windows from the wood between the panes then outward. On casement windows, us the same technique, but keep the windows slightly open until the paint dries.

For panel doors, paint the decorative molded edges first, then the individual panels. Paint from the center out. When the panels are completed, paint the vertical and horizontal flat panels.

Use a painter's tape or painter's shield to keep paint off windowpanes. Do not use a masking tape or a duct tape. Using a painter's tape or painter's shield allows you to keep areas covered for up to 3 days.

Paint the top edge baseboards first, then the bottom along the floor. Paint the middle section last.

Remove cabinet doors and drawers and paint the flat surfaces first. Paint inside the edges, then move to the outer surfaces.

CLEAN-UP and STORAGE or DISPOSAL TIPS

If there are paint drops on your floor, don't let it stay there. As the paint sets longer, the harder it will be cleared. Use a cloth with soap and water or a solvent for5B4 cleaning.

Use a razor-blade scraper or a putty knife to chip off bigger paint droplets that have dried.

Use a scraper to trim around windowpanes.

Wash and dry paintbrushes and rollers. Store them according to the brand's recommendation not all paintbrushes have the same type of bristles nor the rollers have the same material.

Clean the paint from the rim of the can. Tap container lids tight with a hammer and block of wood.

Store solvent-based paint cans upside down to prevent a skin from forming.

Store your paints in normal or room temperature. Never put the paints in extreme hot or cold rooms.

Each states in the U.S. or every community/ county differs on paint can disposal methods. Check your local environmental, health, and safety laws.

EXTERIOR PAINTING

In buying paints that you are going to use for your exterior house, you have to pick a brand that has essential characteristics: hiding power, color retention, chalk-resistance, and blister resistance.

Hiding power comes from the paint's pigment and is affected by the manner and thickness of the application. Color retention is the ability to maintain its original color during exposure to sunlight, etc. Chalking resistance prevents the white chalky powder from forming on the surface and lightening the color of the paint. Chalking occur over a period of time. Blister resistance keeps excessive moisture fro5B4m coming through the substrate and affecting the paint layer. Tip: if paint is applied over a damp or wet surface, blistering is imminent.

Painting the exterior of your house requires a thorough estimation, visualization and preparation. When you have chosen your theme for your rooms and have bought the job materials you need.

You will need any of these tools in painting your exterior: caulk, sandpaper, rags and/or paper towels, painter's tape, garden hose, power washer, or hose brush attachment, sponges & buckets for wash water, spray nozzle, stepladder, extension ladder, paint scraper, wire brush, putty knives, heat gun, rotary paint removing tool and electric drill, caulk gun, sanding block, and work gloves.

When you have all the tools at hand, examine your exterior. You might find exterior painting problems, which could be any of the following: alligatoring, blistering, chalking, chalk run down, crackling, dirt pickup, efflorescence, fading, frosting, lapping, mildew, nail head rusting, paint incompatibility, peeling, poor alkali resistance, poor adhesion, poor gloss retention, surfacent leaching, staining, vinyl siding wrap, wax bleed, or wrinkling.

If you already know what your house exterior's problem is or just for repainting it, simply follow some of these tips. You can also refer to INTERIOR PAINTING for brush or roller strokes, etc.:

Start by thoroughly cleaning the outside of your home. Start5A8 at the top and work your way down the sides of the house. If your siding has areas of mold, mildew or discoloration, wash it with an anti-fungal cleaner.

Mask off areas that are not to be painted. You may want to place masking tape along the edge of house trim, and around window and door frames and trim, since this is likely to be painted in a different color or with a higher sheen paint. You can also tape newspaper or plastic drop cloth material over windows and doors, including sliding glass doors, to protect them from drips.

Place plastic drop cloths over plants and shrubs, or where paint may drip on porches, roof sections, sidewalks, driveways or other surfaces.

House painting takes time, house painting costs a big chunk on your budget, but the end-result is always great.

Charlie Angeles is a web copywriter and PR writer for US Website Builder, a web design company that builds websites and increases web visibility through optimization and promotion.

American Country House Plan - Americana Decor from Wall to Wall

The American country house plan is a fairly modern term used to express a variety of different elemental structural or design themes which give rise to the feel of years gone by. The charm of a country home can be as simple as a summer cottage or as formal and elegant as a multi-story, columned estate.

A smaller American country house plan can feature a stucco exterior with stone and shingles to create the cozy warmth of a cottage. Add a series of hip roofs, a central fireplace and brick facade to lend an English elegance to the home. A glass or screened in sun room would be an impressive addition.

For the larger American country house plan, some inclusions to be considered are a walkout basement Foundation, open living spaces with the main entry giving way directly into the great room, or a secluded master suite with a terrace and a spa. Matchstick details and horizontal siding give a more sophisticated country flavor and don't forget to add a fireplace to the great room.

You can also add a country flavor to a ranch house with just a few well placed details such as dormer windows, a tray ceiling, central fireplace and enclosed sun room. The feel of a country manor estate can be captured with a drive court leading to private parking in a multi-car garage and separate guest house. Internal elements such as angled walls and sculptured ceilings can also add to the impression of an affluent country barron's home.

Many home styles can be turned into a country house floor plan as long as you pay attention to the architectural design. From shutters and planter boxes, to ornate woodworking and sweeping verandas, deciding what architectural and design elements give your family the country feeling is the most important factor in planning your American country house plan.

Get fantastic ideas for your new house! Country house floor plans come in all shapes and sizes. Find the right house floor plan for your family today!

Pink Stairs In Water Color

Buy A New Home Or Remodel - Let's Discuss The Benefits Of Both!

For most people our first homes are known in the market place as a starter home. The home was most likely chosen primarily for financial considerations. It probably lacked some of the features that we would have wanted if our budget had been unlimited at the time. Now that your income has grown, and possibly the size of your family it is time to consider either moving or investing in your current property to add additional features and living space.

Although the decision on whether to stay and remodel or relocate has affected all of us, the decision is usually based on emotion rather than fact or situation. Before you decide on whether to remodel or relocate you should consider the following points:

• Return On Investment: Most of us are concerned that any investment we make, and doing a major remodel to a home is definitely an investment, will eventually provide us with a payback or at worst case we wont loose any money. In order to determine if an investment in your current property is likely to have a financial benefit it is important to look at the other homes on your street and in your area. If your home is the same size as the majority of other homes, it is most likely that if you add an addition to your home it will become the most expensive home in the neighborhood. From an investment standpoint, one does not want to have the most expensive home in the neighborhood. On the other hand, if your home is currently smaller than the majority of homes, it may be a very smart investment to add an addition to expand the livable floor space. This should have the effect of increasing your home value by more than the investment.
• Architecture: The cost of adding additional floor space is usually determined by the size of the lot and current building codes for that lot. Would adding additional floor space mean adding a second floor or is their room on the lot to add to the main floor level. Dont forget that by adding to the main floor level you will be eliminating some of the homes outdoor space. It is also important to realize that with some homes, depending on how the original Foundation was installed, adding a second story may mean adding to the strength of the footings. This alone could mean that the project is not economically feasible. Whether you are considering a second story or an addition on the main level, try to visualize what the finished home will look like. If in your mind you are satisfied that what you want to do will be visually acceptable it is probably time to call in an architect to discuss what can and cant be done with your property.
• Budget: Although construction costs vary from city to city and state to state you should allow a minimum of $200 per square foot for the addition of basic living space, providing the addition does not include a kitchen or bathroom. Your architect will be able to give you a budgetary number for finished construction cost based on the city and state where you are located. Higher quality finishing materials such as hardwood flooring, and natural stone tiles such as marble or granite can easily double the per square foot cost. Once you have a detailed set of Building Plans, you will be able to obtain firm prices from the contractors in your area. For budgeting purposes, it is always wise to add an extra 10% to the costs, as there are generally changes and modifications during the construction phase.
• Sweat Equity: One major advantage to a remodel rather than a relocation is that a remodel allows you to put some sweat equity into your property. Depending on ones capabilities, a lot of the remodel work, especially items that are labor intensive, can be accomplished by a reasonably competent homeowner. These include simplistic items such as wallpapering, painting, installing light fixtures, and window coverings. For the more experience home handyman, installing finished flooring, doors and trim can provide cost savings and increased equity. Landscaping and gardening are two other areas that can become family projects and increase the homes value. However, if you do decide to relocate rather than renovate you may find that you are doing all of the aforementioned items at your new home!
• Inconvenience: Living through a construction project, especially if involves bathrooms and/or kitchens can be a very trying experience. If you havent been through a major remodel, it can mean the loss of utilities for periods of time, continuous noise, dust, dirt, and a parade of workman marching through your home. The concept of having peaceful enjoyment of your home is lost completely. Relocation is not necessarily a project without heartache. There is the packing and unpacking phase, new schools, changing utilities, changing all addresses on personal documents, credit cards, and other companies that you do business with. Let us not forget the new neighbors and the loss of the old and our childrens friends and classmates.

Want biased advise on whether you should renovate or relocate, its available from most real estate brokers. Remember that a real estate broker makes a living when people buy and sell homes, not when they renovate. They do not receive any benefit from you deciding to stay where you are and to remodel your current property.

As with most home improvement or remodel projects, planning is the key to success!

For additional information on remodeling your home or other home improvement projects, including landscaping and gardening visit Renovation Headquarters.

Safety Hazard Under The Stairs