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

Careful Considerations When Buying Bamboo Shades

Inspired by cultures around the world, bamboo shades or woven woods can encompass any decorating stylefrom sophisticated and contemporary to casual and relaxed. The lining options, mounting options and cord operation systems are just as important as the style of shade you choose.

Bamboo Shades come with a choice of 4 lining options that can dramatically change the look of bamboo shades;

Standard - The standard shade configuration is unlined as shown above. Most patterns gently filter light.

Privacy Liner - A light beige lining is expertly sewn to the backside of the shade. This provides full privacy and a uniform light color facing the street.

Blackout Liner - A white blackout lining is expertly sewn to the backside of the shade. This blocks almost all light coming through the material.

Duo Shade - A roller shade behind the Roman shade is available in privacy (shown) or blackout fabrics. Makes any shade private as you wish - perfect to pull down at night.

It is important to hold the sample of the bamboo shade up to the window, especially an unlined shade. A material in the sample book will usually reflect what the shade will look like if you chose it with a blackout backing. With an unlined bamboo shade, depending on the tightness of the weave, the shade may or may not be see through. A see through pattern offers no privacy at night. The privacy lining will still let light enter the room, but gives full privacy. The disadvantage is that you will have to raise the shade to see out the window. The blackout lining is sometimes misunderstood due to it filters out about 95% of the light when the shades are down. Some companies are starting to name blackout shades room darkening due to customers thought blackout shades would cut 100% of the light. Lining or not, a good rule of thumb is to take the sample out of the sample book and hold it up to the window.

Mounting options for bamboo shades can vary depending on the look you are trying to capture. A bamboo shade can be mounted inside the windowsill or outside the window sill. An inside mounted bamboo shade is a clean tucked away look that is flush with the window sill edge. There are some important considerations with an inside mounted bamboo shade. Since bamboo shades have a large stack when pulled up, you will loose viewing area out of the window with an inside mounted shade. Another disadvantage is when the windows are not square and you will have larger gaps in some areas between the edge of the shade and the window sill. The gaps will be very noticeable if you chose the blackout lining option. Another important consideration when using an inside mount is that bamboo shades will stretch and six months later will pucker out slightly at the bottom due to the shade hitting the bottom of the window sill. An outside mounted shade is a more finished look and can add height to any window. Outside mounted bamboo shades are usually mounted 3 above the window and overlap 2 on each side. They can be mounted higher that 3 to make the window appear larger and to have the stack cover less of the window when the shade is in the up position. One advantage with an outside mount is when the shade stretches a little, it will not make a difference because the shade is hanging freely. In this case, the shade will look the same six months later from the day they were installed. A shade with a blackout lining usually looks better when mounted outside because you will not see the space between the edge of the shade and window sill. Further, you can block the light better due to the overlapping of 2 past the window. Whether the shade is mounted inside or outside, after taking these suggestions into consideration you will love your bamboo shades for many years.

Finally, there are two different cord operation systems for bamboo shades. Most companies use a cord-lock system as a standard feature with no extra charge. Another option is a continuous cord operation that costs a little extra, but has its advantages. When a shade is in the up position with a cord-lock system the cords will usually hang on the ground. Also, depending on the usage of the shade, the cords in a cord-lock system will burn out faster than a continuous cord operation system. With a continuous cord system, the length of the cord will always stay the same length regardless of the shade position. The cords on a continuous cord system usually hang the length of the shade, but can be custom lengths if homeowner chooses. Further, you will never have cords hanging on the ground to step on or the kids to play with. Another advantage is that bamboo shades in large windows will be heavy, especially if they have a lining, to lift up and down so the continuous cord system can help because it is a stronger system and will make those large windows feel easy. The only disadvantage with a continuous cord system is that the head rail is larger and you will need at least 3 of mounting space on an inside mounted shade so the shade will not stick out past the window sill. In conclusion, carefully consider spending a couple extra bucks to have a clean hassle-free look.

Create A Perfect Bathroom Setting With Bathroom Stone Tile

Natural stone tiles offer durability yet require low maintenance. With the wide variety of stone tiles to select from, you can surely find the one that will suit your bathroom. Among the types of stones to choose from are marble, limestone, travertine, slate, granite and sandstone. With bathroom stone tile, you can put in a splash of hue, or you can just keep the tiles neutral so you can put color with embellishment, accessories and furniture.

Because of their inherent properties, stone tiles are very suitable for your bathroom renovation project. They are tough and resistant to stains and wear and they are available in an extensive range of finishes and colors. There are lots of things, however, that you need to consider in using stone tile for you bathroom.

Various Types of Natural Stone

1. Slate - This incredibly durable stone has a natural, untamed splendor and is really perfect for bathroom use. Slate requires little maintenance and is very easy to clean. In fact, you can make this stone almost totally resistant to stains. It comes in wide range of colors and its texture is rough, making it non-slippery.

2. Marble - This type of stone carries the look of refinement for many centuries now. It has a remarkable hue and its surface can be polished to bring out an unmatched shine. Because of these characteristics, marble tiles can truly help you in creating a remarkable effect in your shower room. But there are some important things that you need to know about this particular stone type before choosing this for your bathroom. First, its high polish, which makes it look so elegant, is very slippery when wet. Also, marble is delicate, making it prone to chipping. Furthermore, marble is the type of stone that's chemical based so if any chemical acids spilled on it, it will badly stain when not treated.

3. Travertine and Limestone - These stones have the same properties - they are more porous and softer than granite or slate. Their earth color makes them lovely in a bathroom setting. However, they aren't very resistant to stains and they are not as durable as slate and quartzite.

4. Quartzite - Among the available stones, quartzite is one of the most resilient and hardest. The color of this type of stone ranges from recurring sequential structures to multicolored unique patterns, depending on the kind of quartzite that's being used. This type of stone is perfect for your bathroom because of its resistance to water and stain, its durability and its non-slippery texture.

5. Sandstone - This stone is a sophisticated choice for your bathroom stone tile because of its gentle structure and earthen colors. The only downside is that sandstone is permeable and soft so it needs to be chemically treated semi regularly to avoid stains.

Other things that must be put into consideration are the color of the bathroom tiles, the finish, the pattern that you want to create and its maintenance.

For ideas on bathroom tile design, visit http://www.bathroomtile101.com.

Be Ready With Your Layout

"Imagination is the layout; reality is the product".

Whatever, your imaginations are, it's now time to draw them on a paper. Layout your measurements and the details with your ideas to get a picture on how the final product will look like. With this picture, reality is definitely one step ahead of imagination.

The kitchen will be your main focus when it comes to the layout. Think about things that will take place in your kitchen in future before you start doing the layout- from preparation of food to cooking and not to forget those special sharing moments during the festive seasons with your family. With that in mind you can start to think on ways to get things organized and well pl5B4an. Maybe you will need some extra storage space or a bigger pantry. That's quite a lot going on in your kitchen.

Designing the layout is the time to think where do you locate your dishwasher, refrigerator, oven, stove and sinks. Draw a simple symbol on top of each box to help you identify the location for each appliance. Make sure these appliances are located nearby their sockets or pipes.

Planning to add an island in the middle of your kitchen, don't forget to draw it down. Remember to draw every detail you want your kitchen to project precisely as this will help you when it comes to fixing.

Drawing a layout is simple, easy and fun! Just take a pencil and start sketching. If you do still find a hassle in drawing or perhaps have a phobia towards art, then try using kitchen planner software to get this done. The results are more than just amazing. All you need to do is just clicking on your mouse together with your mind thinking. Pick your theme before keying in your measurements and you're almost done with a 3D image of your dream kitchen. Get this software now at no price at all from the Internet.

For more information about kitchen cabinets visit our site

Click here for more info about kitchen212 cabinets.

Install Laminate Flooring

The first thing to remember is that tools can be dangerous and should not be thrown at one another. We did not actually throw any tools at each other. And we had been married long enough when we installed our laminate flooring to know that yelling at each other gets us no where. But there were some tense moments. We were fortunate that our only real injuries were an assortment of aches and pains in new and not so interesting places.

Have a plan. The flooring we selected was not wood grain. It looks like tile and has a very strong pattern. That was our fir5B4st mistake. With a wood look alike, it does not so much matter where you begin and end.

If your laminate has a strong pattern, take a good look at the room and decide what the focal points are and how you want the pattern to look in those areas. Also, you might want to measure the room and figure out how many planks across it is. You will want to hide any thin pieces behind furniture. Also, do not just stagger the planks as a brick layer staggers bricks. Sometimes you will come up to an end wall and have just a little sliver of the end of a plank to put down. These will not stay in place well and you end us saying things to your spouse like, It was your job to keep that in mind and What do you mean it was my job, you never told me that. Then he tries to make it better with a compliment, Well, youre the one with the good memory. So each time you begin a run, check to see how it will end and adjust the starting plank by trimming the starting end that butts up to the wall appropriately.

If you will be laying laminate in more than one room, as we did, and these rooms connect, give some thought to how you will want the transition to look. There are threshold pieces that allow you to stop and start up again in a new room as long as the pattern is not definite. We had to blend everything together and I have to tell you that going around corners gave us fits. You have never heard so much cursing. If you ha5B4ve to go around corners, have lots of paper handy. Large sheets are best. Make templates. A good rule of thumb for the whole project is to measure twice and cut once. Even so a lot of exasperated groaning will occur. Do save the pieces you cut incorrectly, you may be able to use them later. Do not try to work on your floor after you have put in a long day at your paying job. That is when we made the most errors. But we did not have much choice about it because our days off did not have much in common.

Once you have figured out how you want it to look (remember to maintain some flexibility on this issue), it is time to take a really good look at your floor. If your house is built on a concrete foundation, most likely your floor is nice and level. Sing Hallelujah. Ours was not. Our house is built on a raised foundation and there was a sizable drop off from the kitchen to the dining area, from the kitchen to the nook and a good dip in the living room. These had to be leveled before we could begin putting down the flooring. Pray that your floor is level.

There are a number of products made just for this purpose. They are supposed to be self leveling. Right. It is not always good to follow the directions. But this is my natural tendency. As my husband finally figured out, it is better if the leveling compound is thinner than recommended than the other way around. My penance was to do a lot of sanding. Drywall sanding sheet5B4s worked best for me. Avoid this step if you possibly can. Believe me, if your floor is not level, it is best to just live with no carpeting or whatever for a while than to begin and figure that you will level it as you go along. That dip in the living room that I mentioned, well, it was very late one night and we just wanted to finish the living room. We went right over the dip without thinking. Luckily, laminate flooring is somewhat flexible and the dip is not too extreme. But do not believe it when the salesperson tells you how flexible it is, its not as flexible as they say. We try not to walk over that spot too much.

If you do not have a nice big truck, have the flooring delivered. Do not try to get it home in your Jeep Cherokee, especially if the store is more than a few minutes from your home and you have to make several trips. That was so not fun. Buy more flooring than you will need to cover all your floors. The exact amount extra you will need depends on how many mistakes you will make and how strong a pattern you are working with. The more definite the pattern, the more extra you will need. Luckily for us, the new batch that we had to order matched the old batch nicely enough.

There are a number of special tools the salesperson will want to sell to you. Buy them. That way you will not have to go back later and get them anyway. We used a circular saw to do the simple trims on the planks. Buy several replacement 5B4blades ahead of time. Laminate flooring is really tough and just eats up your blades. For the fancy cuts around corners and such we used one of those rotating plunge cutters/saws. My husband could tell you the name of it. I love my jewelry making tools and can name them all. That I can not name all other tools appropriately is not a defect on my part.

We sacrificed our garage for a time and parked our cars outside. We set up the garage as our workshop. That meant we did not have to bring all our tools in from outside each time we stopped working on the floor. You do not want to cut the flooring indoors. The dust that is created is phenomenal. Be sure to close the door from your house to your garage before you start cutting. Even then, you will have to wipe down your walls afterwards. Cover your furniture with drop cloths. I really wish someone had told us that.

We also made a cutting table from a large piece of plywood and saw horses. Make sure the horses are stable and level. Temporarily attach the plywood to the horses with screws. On one long side of the table, screw down two 2x4s parallel to each other along the full length about five inches apart. This makes the long cuts along the length of the planks easier. Wear eye and hearing protection while cutting. Seriously.

For the rest of it, just follow the directions (especially the one about the spacing between walls and flooring. Oh yeah.). And yes, I know what I3DC said about directions earlier. We love our laminate floor. We are glad that we did it. You will be too.

http://www.syzygyjewelry.com

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.

Living Off The Grid

In 2006 our family started contemplating the possibilities of living off the grid, producing our own electricity with Renewable Energy sources. Our electricity bill was about $200 a month and it just kept on growing. We knew there was a better way, so we looked at living off the grid. We decided we wanted to find ways of living off the grid mainly for economic reasons but we also wanted to keep the lifestyle we were already living.

We just didn’t want to give up all of our regular household appliances. As we dug deeper it became clear that with a bit of planning and patience and some serious conservation practices we could achieve this goal. It looked like we could be living off the grid within a few months if we worked hard at it.

Thankfully, we already owned a small cottage that we had been planning on moving to in the future anyways. It was an easy option for us, but there are a lot of country properties for reasonable prices out there too, if you decide to make this option work for you.

Our property was only 40 minutes from town, so there would be no job finding necessary either, just a slightly longer commute to work. We also made arrangements to work from home a couple days a week, so we could enjoy our new found off grid lifestyle.

Years before we had looked at bringing electricity to the cottage, but the hydro authority had told us that it would cost over $14,000 to do so. We didn’t proceed with it because of the high cost. Why would we bring in grid hydro if it would still cost $200 a month and $14,000 just to get it there. Living off the grid now made perfect sense from an economic point of view.

We could use the $14,000 to install Renewable Energy to run our cottage/home. Plus, if we added a conservative 2 years of electricity service expense to the total what would have otherwise been spent on electric bills that’s another $4800.

The total would be $18,800 we could spend on a Renewable Energy system and still be money ahead when compared to bringing in grid electricity. After 2 years we would be money ahead! We would not have to pay electric bills ever again.

We chose solar panels to install in our new home because they were easier to install. We found a great website that offered up tons of advice and really helped with the installation. We wanted to put up a wind generator but we just didn’t have the resources at that point. Later we actually built a wind generator with plans we found. We also had a back room that we could convert into a battery Storage area and control room for the inverter, charge controllers etc.

We bought 12 Kyocera solar panels, all of them about 170 watts of power producing capacity. That would give us about 2Kw of production and that was a good start. An electrician friend helped us wire up the system with 16 huge forklift batteries and an inverter for AC power, all charge controlled and set up in case of lightning too. He said that it happens occasionally and you have to protect your investment, so we did.

We run a DC deep well pump and DC lights directly from the batteries. The whole house is run from this system and only occasionally do we have to start up the backup generator.

We didn’t have much money when we were done and we still wanted a wind generator, so we decided to build one. We found some great plans and all that helpful solar panel advice at the Living Off the Grid website. We could not have done it without them.

We have been living off the grid for over a year now, and we could not have done it without the helpful folks at the Living Off the Grid website.

Log Home Products

Take advantage of these remarkable Log Home Products.

Before you grab your first tool, you should have a good idea of how log cabins are made, how they are assembled and how everything fits together. That's why there are many log cabin DVD sets on the market that show you exactly how a log cabin is built, from clearing the land to putting up your mailbox. Even if you have hired a company to put your log cabin home together for you, this is one useful product that will help to demystify the whole home building process. These DVD sets usually range anywhere from $100 to $200 in price and contain as many as eight separate DVDs.

If you are looking to have your own log cabin home, chances are, you are looking for lighting fixtures that present a certain style and grace. While the average lighting store offers dozens of different styles, you might have to go online to find exactly the style you are looking for. There are dozens of sites online that offer log cabin products such as specialized lighting fixtures that blend in perfectly with the natural appearance of a log cabin home. Don't settle for outdoor lighting fixtures that don't match the dcor you are going for, get the products you want for your beautiful new home.

One set of wood working tools you will need for sure, so you can add any final touches to your beautiful new home all by yourself. From durable chisels and saws to other handheld woodworking tools, making sure you have the right tools for your personal projects is very important. Don't approach the various jobs you have planned for your home with worn out woodworking tools, get the best new tools available for less online.

These are just a handful of the many outstanding log home products available to each and every new log cabin owner out there. The log cabins is the most beautiful, durable and striking style of home in the world; make sure you are ready to turn your new house into a home with the best in log home products this season.

Mountain Home Building Products offers the highest quality Log home products for your Log Cabin.

Wood working tools, solid wood siding, artistic antler castings, hand forged lighting and a complete line of log finishing products that works to clean, preserve, stain, protect and seal your log home.

Visit us at: http://www.mountainhomebuildingproducts.com

Home Construction or Remodeling Contractor

Choosing the right Contractor is the most important aspect of any home construction project. You must take your time and do your research to find a good qualified contractor if you want excellent quality at a fair price. When we built our new home we spent many hours finding the best contractors for each aspect of building our new home. We developed a method that served us well and it is as follows:

Determine exactly what you want done and write it down. This may sound a little basic at first blush, but it is so important. Remember what is not well defined is easily manipulated. If it is not in writing, it can be disputed. You do two things when you define your project in detail, and in writing. You find any missing aspects that you may have overlooked and you have good definition and expectations for your contractor.

Get three (3) bids for each trade that you will hire. Never rely on one bid, and always meet the contractor face to face at the site where the work is to be done. If you are uncomfortable with the contractor when they are bidding the job how is it going to be when the two of you have to work out the details of your project. Remember cheaper is not always better!

Ask each contractor for references and make sure they are bonded and insured. Check their references and call the BBB (Better Business Bureau) in your area to see if they have any outstanding complaints.

Make sure they dont sub the work out to a contractor that is not insured or bonded. It is very common for a contract company to sub out work to contractors that are not insured and bonded. Another danger of the contractor subbing work out is if they dont pay their sub, the sub can put a mechanics lien on your house and you will have to pay even if you have already paid the contractor.

Set a definite timeframe for the work to begin and for completion and get it in writing. Nothing is worse than to have a project drag on not knowing when they are going to show up and finish.

Never, ever pay for the entire project in advance. If you do the contractor has no incentive to finish or even start. When you no longer have the money you are no longer in control! It is customary with most contractors that you pay a portion up front. On a large project hold back as much money as you can until the end. The incentive to finish must be motivated by the cash at the end of the project.

For more information on finding and qualifying contractors visit www.Build-YourOwn-Home.com

George Stevens is the popular author of the Website http://www.Build-YourOwn-Home.com teaching you how to build your own home. and Build-Your-Own-Home.com All Rights Reserved

What Is The Square Ft Cost Of The Homes You Build

What is the square footage cost of the homes you build? I'm sure that every veteran builder has heard this question many times. In truth, only a range can be given. There are just tFBBoo many variables to give a price based on just square footage. These variables range from design, materials used, and size.

How is the square footage calculated? Do you count the garage, a basement, what about rooms that are cathedrals or raised? I've seen these questions answered differently by many builders or their marketing departments.

The design alone is a huge factor with a ranch home being the most expensive to multi-story homes which offer the lowest by dividing the foundation and roof cost by the number of stories. With the building materials that are available to most builders, a square floor plan or box shaped home offers the highest ratio of floor space to the area of the exterior walls. This certainly may not be the most pleasing design, but it is the most efficient as to cost to construct on a square footage cost basis.

The materials used can cause a huge difference on the same floor plan. A brick or stone veneer usually has a very attractive appearance, giving the home a rich, substantial look, but adding a tremendous amount of cost in comparison to the same sized home with vinyl siding. One example of many.

The kitchen is the most expensive room in a home. The cost difference of cabinets can vary from affordable to very high end with prices many times higher. Today, many customers are choosing granite counter tops, very nice but hugely more expensive. The same is true for appliances.

Permits are another issue when planning on building a new home. In most areas, the permit costs of tapping into the sanitary sewer and water line make up the biggest part of the total permit costs. This cost is the same, regardless of square footage of home. This is also the same from a labor and material cost stand point when the contractor connects the piping involved from the main lines to the new home.

The examples go on and on, making it impossible to state a builders square footage costs on all the homes they build. Obviously, once a plan is bid, the square footage price can be calculated.

If a low square footage cost of your new home is your goal, it is suggested that you build a large two story home with standard materials. The reason is a large home is likely to have a lower square footage cost, is that there are so many costs that are or to close to the same on a small home as a larger home using the same building materials. The examples of this goes on and on. Here's some things to think about. If the lot and the materials are the same, the exterior concrete costs will be the same. The driveway, lead walk, and public walks. The front door, the house to garage door, and garage door will cost the same. The garage door opener will cost the same. Going to the inside is much more of the same. If there is the same amount of bathrooms, the cost of these will be the same. I'm sure now you can see the trend and these costs will be divided by a smaller number of square feet on a smaller home than on a larger home. This effects the square footage costs when the building materials are the same.

These are some thinking points for you to use if planning to minimize the cost per square foot of your new home.

Bill Dold has been a home builder for over 30 years in the Toledo, Ohio area. To learn about Dold Homes, visit http://www.doldhomes.com/

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

Home Improvement - Why You Should Hire An Expert To Do Your Bathroom Renovation

If you are thinking about doing your own bathroom renovation, you really should think twice about it unless of course you are an expert in that field. If you are new to DIY home projects, there are a few crucial issues to consider especially if you have absolutely no experience in doing any kind of bathroom renovation projects. There are reasons why bathroom renovation experts are very highly paid for their expertise.

If the question "How hard can it be?" is ringing in your head while you are thinking about undertaking your own bathroom renovation, you might be in for a nightmare. The toilet looks simple and easy enough to remove but are you very sure you know how to ensure that its properly sealed after it is installed? Can you imagine the mess if it leaks after installation and ever worst while using it? If you think that running a bead of caulk around the base of your toilet is the way to go, then you definitely need to hire an expert.

Moving To The Shower

As you have been warned about the difficulties one can expect by installing the toilet, let's move on now to the shower. It may look easy at first glance but if you are not familiar with plumbing and using torches for welding then you may want to stay clear of the shower. If a shower is not installed correctly, you can end up ruining not only your bathroom but also your whole house with water. The shower is the most expensive part of the bathroom to get installed due to the labor and involved. Do call and hire an expert if you do not want to encounter leaks around your house and ruining your bathroom. Though the cost might be a little steep, at least you will be able sleep at night and get to use your bathroom without any hassle.

It is so tempting to pick up your tools and start doing the bathroom renovation yourself but be smart and call in the experts to do the work for you. You will have peace of mind and the results you get will be well worth the price paid. You can plan your bathroom renovation but when it come to doing the actual work, you are advised to seriously consider calling in the experts.

Find out more about 1108Bathroom Renovations by visiting http://allhomeideas.info a popular home improvement website for free home improvement tips, advice and resources.

Bathroom Remodeling Can Be Both Big and Small

There are many home improvement projects, but few can provide the benefits of a bathroom remodeling project. There are a few things to consider when remodeling your bathroom. This article will take a closer look at this topic.

Start your bathroom remodeling with your bathroom accessory and shower curtain list. Although it may not be as important and crucial as some of the other decisions you have to make at the start of your bathroom remodeling project but a little thought and action at the start can save you a lot of time, energy and money later on.

If you don't make your bathroom accessory list at the start of your project how will you know whether the fixtures that you order will match with your style in accessories? You might fi16CFnd that the stainless steel bathroom accessory look that you grow to love later in the project simply doesn't go with the style and color of the bathtub, toilet and other fixtures that you chose weeks ago.

If you are planning a complete remodeling of the bathroom, then look for some of the best designs available in remodeling magazines or websites with galleries exhibiting various designs. While bathroom remodeling can be an exciting project it can also seem daunting because of the various aspects that need to be considered for the look and design you require.

Next to consider in your bathroom remodeling design are the materials you want to use. One of the most difficult decisions that face you when you are remodeling your bathroom is the design of the ceramic tiles. In bathroom shower remodeling, great care is required in the selection of tiles used for flooring and on walls in the shower area.

When you've got an accurate drawing of your bathroom as it is now it's time to start dreaming about the bathroom that you would like to have. I think that the fun part of using squared paper to design a bathroom is drawing the new fixtures to scale on graph paper and cutting them out so that they can be pushed into position on top of another sheet of graph paper with a drawing of the room on it. At the end of the day project managing your bathroom remodeling job is a full time job and if you want to avoid the stress that it brings then you should hire someone to project manage for you.

If you spend time on the design of your small bathroom remodeling project before you start any work you will be surprised at how much space you can save by experimenting with small sized toilets, small deep bathtubs, tiny wash basins and carefully shaped small shower cubicles. Bathroom remodeling design could be an exciting project but it can also seem daunting because of the various aspects to consider. A small bathroom will always be small but there are many ways to create the illusion of a much larger room and using bathroom wall mirrors is one of the ways.

Find more helpful remodeling tips by visiting http://best-home-improvement-projects.com where you will find helpful remodeling tips, advice and resources to include Bathroom Remodeling.

Wooden Playhouses For Outdoor Fun

Wooden playhouses could be just the thing you have been looking for. Playhouses are the key to every child's imagination. They are easy to assemble, easy to look after and can be your kid's special place to go with their toys in good or bad weather. A wooden playhouse can be painted and decorated to match your kids interests and can hold a lot of toys and games freeing up valuable space in your house.

Outdoor play is very important for a child's development and to ensure they get enough exercise. Wooden playhouses will unlock your child's imagination along with their friends during the long summer holidays whe5B4n they need a lot of interesting things to be doing so they don't suffer from the dreaded and tantrum starting boredom.

Wooden playhouses can be used by both boys and girls and can become and play kitchen, fortress, army base, secret den or hidden cave, the uses are endless. A playhouse can come in a massive variety of shapes and sizes and themes and are easy to put together and will last for many years with only a little maintenance in the form of wood weather protector or paint.

Wooden playhouses can be tucked away in the corner of the garden and will blend in with the surroundings a lot better than metal play equipment such as swings, climbing frames and slides. They also could be made into the main feature in your back garden and as your child grows so can the playhouse with add-ons such as wooden climbing frames, extensions or another playhouse. A wooden climbing frame would be an ideal place for your child to develop their sense of safe play, strength and a brilliant place to show off their climbing skills.

Wooden playhouses can be for everyday use but can also be fantastic and memorable places for special occasions such as a tea party with best friends, birthday parties and a place to open Christmas presents with lots of Christmas decorations making the playhouse into a winter wonderland or Santa's grotto, the possibilities are endless and don't 51Ahave to be restricted to summer.

If you have a little one and struggle to find or afford enough activities to keep them happy and occupied during the long summer months the a wooden playhouse could be the answer you have been looking for, they will give your child a great start in life and will help them get plenty of fresh air, exercise and is a great place for them to socialize with friends and all while in the safety of your back garden where you can keep a caring eye on them.

For lots of choice and information on many wooden playhouses visit our website at http://www.idealwoodenplayhouses.co.uk

How to Install an Inground Flagpole

An inground flagpole is simply a flagpole that is rooted in the ground. It is a permanent pole designed to withstand winds of up to 130 mph, depending on the height and material of the flagpole. Just as trees require roots for support, inground flagpoles need foundations.

A foundation is made by digging a hole, wetting the soil, and pouring in concrete. A cylindrical groundsleeve is then inserted into the wet concrete. A groundsleeve is a thick steel cylinder with an open top and a wide base, designed to protect the flagpole from the corrosive effects of the concrete. On the outside of the groundsleeve are steel plates that lock it in place. 7D0On the inside of the groundsleeve are steel wedges that firmly center the base of the flagpole. Oftentimes the groundsleeve will include a ground spike to channel away lightning (but this might be of little concern if you have a fiberglass flagpole, the only flagpole material that does not conduct electricity.)

The foundation may also include a flash collar, which fits over the ground sleeve and bottom of the pole to protect it from the elements and give the foundation a finished look. Space between the collar and pole is sealed to keep water away from the base of the pole and the foundation.

When building your foundation, it is important that the flagpole extends far enough underground so that it will not blow over. A good rule of thumb is that ten percent of the poles length should be underground.

Some of the larger flagpoles do require professional installation. Ask the manufacturer or distributor whether they will do it for free with purchase.

Flag poles Info provides detailed information on flagpoles of all types, including telescoping, fiberglass, commercial, residential, aluminum, tailgating, wall mounted, in ground, flagpoles for sale, and more. Flag poles Info is affiliated with Original Content Web.

China Dishes - Not Just For The Aged

China isn't just for your grand-parents anymore. Younger generations love it too. Also, it can be hard to find replacement china5A3, but the internet makes it that much easier.

As a pretty recent college graduate, I am out on my own and trying to get my life "jump started". Growing up, I loved looking at my mom's china dishes. I loved the intricate patterns and the vivid colors. She would even let me carry them to the table during holiday meals, where she probably followed me just praying I wouldn't drop them. But now that I am a little older, I would love to have my very own classic china dishes.

I recently visited my mother for Christmas. Once again, we got to use her china. While clearing the table after the festivities, I accidentally broke one of her pieces. She didn't scold me like she would have done when I was younger; she just had a sad smile on her face. Since then, I've been doing everything I can to find some replacements.

The problem is it is discontinued china I am sure I am not the only one who feels that there isn't enough time in the day; Let alone, time left to go to shops looking for the perfect china. But I've found an alternative. I almost forgot that in this modern age, almost anything can be found online.

Not only are there online china shops so I can browse through the perfect china for myself, but I can also try to find replacement china for my mom. Maybe for her birthday I can give her the perfect gift of replacing the broken china.

Different Styles of Residential Fencing

Although there are many different types of residential fencing perhaps aluminum is the most popular. This is a galvanized steel product with a hard wearing powder coat finish. It is designed to add beauty and value to residential homeowners. There are a wide variety of styles and colors to select from and any of them will complement any color that you may have on your home. This type of fence is designed with the residential person in mind and provides a level of quality and resilience that the home owner needs. This fence is made for durability to withstand the elements and it is possible to have a special formulated powder coating made to suit your needs.

This power coated system of polyester resin prevents early rusting. This type of fencing comes in eight-foot sections to cut down on time and labor. The posts that are provided will hold the pickets firmly in place and will adapt to any contour of slopes in your landscape. The panels can be secured to the post without any welding and there are brackets provided. Most of these come with a 12 year warranty.

You can find these available from 4 foot to 6 foot high and there are many different colors to choose from. This fence carries very low-maintenance which can free up your time for other things. Whether you need a picket fence or a privacy fence, this fencing can provide what you need. If you have animals that you want to keep in or animals that you want to keep out, this is the fence that can provide the security for you. With its low maintenance, durability, and appealing look this fence will be a welcome addition to your home. No matter what your needs this fence can provide what you're looking for.

For lots of information on garden fencing and other related topics, visit Fences Guide at www.fencesguide.com

A DIY Project Can Be Fun & Rewarding

With the high cost of buying or building a new home, more and more couples and families are choosing to buy older homes that they can fix up themselves. Just make sure you are the DIY home improvement type of person. While one person may enjoy DIY projects, these may be dreaded words to another. There is the story of the businessman from Singapore that purchased a home in the United States sight unseen because a relative in the U.S. recommended it. When the purchase was final, he was told it was a great older home that just needed some old fashioned DIY home improvement. That was the most dreaded response he could have heard, as he had no construction knowledge whatsoever.

Before you begin a renovation job, review everything that needs to be done in order of importance. While the idea of totally residing the home may seem overwhelming to the novice, repainting or putting in new drywall may be a job you can handle as well as improving the interior immensely. Starting small and simple is the key to getting the job done without getting frustrated and giving up. Many times, we think we need something replaced in our home only to discover we just need to repair or renovate it.

Painting is a large part of remodeling your home both inside and out. It's also a very simple project once you get the hang of what you're doing. If you are the artistic creative type, you can make some great designs on your interior walls that will make the idea of wallpaper unnecessary. This is a great way to renovate a room into a nursery.

Carpentry, plumbing, electricity and heating are major parts of home improvement and home renovations. There are major as well as minor things you can do in these areas. If you're not 100% sure of what you're doing with the heating, plumbing or electricity, don't be afraid to call or professional unless you know something that can help. These are areas where mistakes could be not only inconvenient but also expensive. You don't want to find out that your furnace doesn't work in the dead of winter.

There are many DIY home improvement guides available online as well as at your local library. Many of these will walk you through any project you need done from beginning to end. You can also get some great tips at the home & building supply store where you get your home improvement materials like air compressor, coolers, etc. Between this and helpful hints from friends knowledgeable, you're all set to go. Before you begin any renovations, make sure you check with your local zoning board on any permits that may be required BEFORE you start your DIY job.

Vince Paxton usually creates publications on subjects similar to air compressor and finding good air compressors. His observations on coolers for air compressors can be discovered on http://www.insidewoodworking.com

Choosing the Right Room for Remodeling Adds Value

There is probably no greater value that you can add to your home than a well thought out and well designed remodeling project. A visit your local home improvement store may reveal some wonderful projects at you can do this next year.

If you're looking to redo your home and add some substantial value one of the most targeted areas that you should focus on is the kitchen. The kitchen really is the focal point of the entire house for most people. It's a room that almost everyone in the family several times each day. Inevitably you're going to pass through it often.

Now most people may think that the family room is one of the more valuable rooms. Although the family room is a valuable room and well worth your time when think56Eing about remodeling project - the kitchen still wins out.

One of the best things you can do in the kitchen remodeling project is to change after cabinets. If changing out the cabinet's sounds way too involved - You can get bye with just refinishing or redoing the cabinets that are already there. The benefit of refinishing your cabinets is that you often times do not need to remove anything more than just the front panels and hardware.

If your budgets really stretched and you just do not have the time or money to refinish or replace your cabinets, you can simply add some beautiful new hardware fixtures to spice things up. This is still considered a viable remodeling idea for your kitchen.

The next thing you might do for the remodeling project is to add some nice dcor items to your kitchen. The best way to do this is to think of the theme that you enjoy. This could have anything to do with animal themes to oceans and more.

Find more helpful remodeling tips by visiting http://best-home-improvement-projects.com where you will find helpful remodeling tips, advice and resources to include 1134Remodeling.

A Stair Lift Guide

There are three ways of providing access between floors for the handicapped or disabled; residential elevators, stair lifts and platform lifts. By far the most popular method of residential lift is the home chair stair lift.

The reasons why they are preferred by the majority is because of ease of installation and price. Residential elevators and platform lifts start at around 10k to 16k. The price of a home stair lift will depend on its type. A straight type will range in price from 2.5k - 4k, whereas a curved model is custom made and will cost anything between 5k to 20k. The complexity of the installation ultimately dictates the cost of installing a curved lift. The cost is impossible to know before the supplier carries out an onsite inspection.

Drive Type

There are four types of drive types. However, the vast majority of new stair lifts use the rack and pinion system.

Most cable drive systems use a strong steel cable - aircraft cable is the norm. The main disadvantage of this type of drive system is that the ride can be less than perfectly smooth. However, technology has moved on and those companies that still use this drive system say that the ride is as smooth as any other type. Summit and Ameriglide stair lifts both use this drive type.

Chain drive systems are used only for heavy duty models. They are loud and not really used in residential stair lifts.

The screw drive uses a lifting mechanism with a screw driven actuator. This is powered by a rechargeable battery. Again, this type is not used in home models.

The rack and pinion drive system is by far the most popular type for residential stair lifts. Rack and pinion systems - meaning gear and teeth - used to have to require regular cleaning and replacement of gear oil. However today's home units have sealed drive systems that require no maintenance at all.

The Track or Rail

This is the base along which the carriage travels. The track is always fitted to the stairs and never to the wall. This means that a track can be fitted to either side of the stairs. Tracks used in straight stair lifts are made of extruded aluminum whereas curved ones usually use a mixture of both steel and aluminum.

Power

With early designs the power source was AC mains. But today, most stair chair lifts are powered by DC 12 volt rechargeable batteries. Batteries are preferred because a trailing cable is used with AC mains powered stairlifts. The cable is reeled5B4 out and reeled back in each and every time the chair travels up and down the stairway, which causes wear and tear. Also, battery powered units can still be used during power outages. Some states prohibit the installation of any appliance unless it is installed by a qualified technician.

Swivel Seats

All makes of stair chair lifts offer this option. There are two types; 90 degree and 180 degree swivel seats. A 90 degree swivel seat is mounted on the upstairs side of the chassis and fold in one direction. A 180 degree swivel seat folds in both directions. One manufacturer, Stannah, makes a motorized swivel seat.

Self Diagnosing

Many brands like the Acorn Superglide and the Stannah stair lift have integrated circuit boards that can help diagnose problems with your lift and decrease maintenance costs.

Accessories

All manufacturers offer a mixture of accessories either as standard or optional. What you choose will affect the cost of the stair lift.

Perch stair lifts allow the passenger to remain standing. This is excellent for those who have problems bending at the knee. The Acorn Superglide Perch is one such example.

Just about all home units come with safety belts. Some brands come with retractable lap inertia belts, while others offer 3-point fixed shoulder belts.

Installation

Installation of today's straight models is quite easy. Many manufacturers and dealers encourage custome53Ars to self-install. However, a customer should never self install and the Accessibility Equipment Manufacturer's Association strongly advises against it.

The installation of a residential lift really can allow someone to regain their home and independence. The chair stair lift that is best for a customer will depend on their requirements and budget.

Follow the links for more information on a stair chair lift, wheelchair stair lift and the handicap stair lift.

Bath Accessories for Easy Bathroom Makeover

Recognizing the latest trends in bathroom designing, everybody sees the potential for their own bathrooms with just a little accessorizing and a few small changes. No need to change out the shower and fixtures! Bath accessories have undergone a tremendous change in the way they are designed with increase in utility and comfort levels.

Today, so many quality bathroom accessories are manufactured and available in the market that you may have a tough time choosing the right one to enhance the look and feel of your room. Beautiful accessories can really transform it into a spa-like atmosphere.

At first thought, many people think that decorating is going to be expensive. We know that this secluded corner of the house needs to be clean and functional, but what about beautiful and chic? The idea to glamorize this private area of your home has been gaining momentum, and people have become more conscious about the look and feel of the powder room, besides the practicality.

Smart decorating can give any room an inviting appeal, and when it comes to the bathroom, it's no different. We all want it to smell clean and fresh, but let's move beyond just clean and into the realm of fabulous! (Fabulous on a budget at least.)

4 quick, easy and inexpensive ways to freshen up with bath accessories: door hardware, cabinet hardware, and paint and aromatherapy.

1. New Cabinet Hardware

New cabinet hardware is such an easy way to transform the look of your bathroom! Various knobs and handles enhance the beauty of doors and drawers of the cabinets under the basin or on the wall.

Choosing the right cabinet hardware that perfectly suits your bathroom is a difficult task as many aspects need to be considered. You should consider the design of the cabinets when choosing new hardware.

Whether you are looking out for a decorative cabinet hardware, simple cabinet hardware or an antique cabinet hardware, it's important to research well before you make a purchase decision.

Also, you want to consider buying new cabinet hardware that attaches the same as any existing knobs you may have. If your handles have two screws attaching them to the cabinet doors, buy new styles and shapes of handles, but make sure they have the same two screws, so you won't have to drill more holes. It should be mentioned that if the handles have two screws, you want to measure the distance between the screws. These can differ also.

2. Matching Bath Accessories

If you are considering new cabinet hardware, you want to look at new bath accessories in towel bars, toilet paper holders, towel rings, and shower rods, all in matching styles. You can match all of these things regardless of if its style is Italian, French, traditional or modern.

Some of the more popular patinas are chrome and brushed nickel, with oil rubbed bronze being the newest trend.

3. Fresh Coat of Paint

The wonders of a fresh coat of paint! Even if you choose the same color, a fresh coat without all of the nicks and marks can make the room feel so clean. If your room looks drab and dull, you can add a touch of bright colors to enlighten the room and try some textures in painting as well.

Don't forget the paint sheen - this can make a huge difference.

Flat paint has a matte finish. It doesn't reflect light and is good at hiding bumps and nicks on the wall.

Satin paint (sometimes called eggshell), has a slight shine, and it lasts longer and is more stain resistant than flat.

Semi gloss paint has more luster than satin paint and is easy to clean. It's best if you think you may be scrubbing the walls.

Gloss paint is hard and shiny and hides. It's most stain resistant, but it enhances imperfections on the wall surface that it is used. It is usually used for base boards, trim and cabinets.

4. Aromatherapy

Now that you have everything looking so great, buy a few scented candles to increase the spa appeal. Or go flameless with a plug-in oil warmer in a clean scent to really make this your escape!

Once you are done with remodeling and the recreation of your bathroom, indulge in a nice long bubble bath and pamper yourself.

With beautiful new 222Ebath accessories and cabinet hardware, your bathroom can feel like an oasis! To see a wide variety of what's new and available in bath accessories, visit CKI Lock online at http://www.ckilock.com/.

Hot Tubs Now & In the Past

Hot Tubs and Jacuzzi Spas in the past have often been associated with those expensive and specialist health clubs.

These days the cost of a Hot Tub to use in ones home has come down due to a combination of various factors. The manufacturers are more efficient and have more up to date production methods. The strength of the Euro combined with the weakness of the dollar means that buying an American Product provides fantastic value for money.

Today more and homeowners are investing in a Hot Tub Spa due to the many benefits that can be generated not just for the individual but for ones whole family.

A spa brings ones family together into an enjoyable surrounding where frantic day-to-day activities can be put on hold and outstanding quality family time can begin. A spa adds a natural focal point to your terrace or garden and of course an area which has been decked it is of course an outstanding place to spend quality time with your family and friends.

Nevertheless, apart from the fantastic family and social benefits of owning a Spa, there are outstanding benefits to your health?

Relieve Stress with the growing increase on stress and tension levels in our daily lives, a hot tub at the end of the day offers a sanctuary in the private of your home to chill and relax. Hot tubs offer natural healing through reflexology, hydro massage and hydrotherapy.

The combination of pleasant warm water with massage Jets and some air combined with semi buoyancy and you have a formula that will provide a pleasant & unforgettable sensation of Hydrotherapy. This brings relief to those sore muscles & joints and also helps to relax the mind and body to relieve that every day stress that we all suffer from.

These properties when combined allow for the beneficial treatment of aches & pains but due to the buoyancy and semi-buoyancy effect, which allows you to reduce the weight placed on the body while stretching in the Hot Tub.

Individuals with say stiffness and osteoarthritis in the neck and shoulder could practice simply arm circles or try rolling their shoulders gently in the water to help improve their range of motion and strength.

The water provides both gentle resistance and pleasant support through buoyancy, the person would probably not experience the pain caused when a tired arm drops suddenly, as is often felt at the end of other exercises.

The concept of pain is usually substantially reduced a result of many factors including the relaxing sounds as well as the warmth of the water provided by the Hot Tub often making this a very pleasurable experience.

The bu676oyancy effect of the water naturally allows a much wider range of positions in the Hot Tub due to the semi weightless effect of the water.

Also after a visit to the Gym or playing sport such as soccer or rugby a soak in a spa is a great idea.

It has been shown that Hydrotherapy helps to reduce and Eliminate Blue Veins as the water treatment increases the blood flow in the lower third of the leg and feet area, which of course is the furthest distance away from the heart.

Help with Insomnia Having regular soaks in your hot tub in the evenings will greatly increase the chance of you having a better quality of sleep. Reduce Blood Sugar Levels According to the medical journal regular soaks in your hot tub will help reduce blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

The author Jacuzzi John supplies prime quality American & European Hot Tubs from Estepona near Marbella on the Costa del Sol In Spain and his web site is at Hot Tubs Spain

Six Important Steps to Consider When Building A Home

Sometimes the house of your dreams just can't be found on the market. No problem, luckily you can build your own home. If your plans are well thought out and you carefully go through each step of the process, you could be living in an outstanding home you never thought was possible!

The most important aspect of building your own home is deciding on a budget. This will dictate each step of the process all the way through completion and beyond. Don't forget to add land cost to the budget of the entire project. It is also important to not forget Murphy's Law when doing a project this big, building estimates are just that, an estimate. There are numerous reasons that construction costs can increase slightly; be sure to leave a little extra room in your budget for changes to the plan.

The next step is deciding what kind of home you would like to build. Browsing through home and real estate magazines is a good start. The internet is also a great resource to get great ideas about your homes style and function. Once you have a general idea of the type of home you like, you should try to see some similar ones in your area. They don't need to be identical, but you can go down to a model home and see if you like or dislike certain features. Taking pictures of things you like is also a good idea; it can only help your designer draw up a plan exactly like you imagine it.

Purchasing the land is the next big step. You should, of course, have a general idea of what kind of land you want, but don't automatically filter out properties that don't exactly fit your search criteria. Keep in mind how much backyard space you would like, how big the house is you are planning on building, and what you are going to use the land for. For example, do you plan on putting in a swimming pool? How about having animals on your property? Would you like a little privacy from the neighbors, or just a good view?

As soon as you have purchased the land that fits your dream home, the next step is hiring a general contractor to oversee and manage the building of your house. It is a very good idea to call at least a handful of contractors and to have each of them give you an estimate. Make sure you ask their price per square foot, inquire about specifics that you would like on your house that may cost extra, and definitely ask for some references from each builder. Most contractors will be more than happy to show you homes they have built before and the homeowners will often answer any questions or concerns you have about the contractor. This is also a good time to check your budget. Is the home you have imagined going to fit into your budget?

The biggest determining factor of your budget is going to be securing financing. Contacting lenders is the next step towards building your home. Make sure to shop around for the best rates and situation that fits your finances best. By securing a loan you will get the money to go forward and will also have a better idea about how big your budget for the rest of the project will be.

The hard part is now over and the exhilarating part begins. Choosing paint colors, carpeting, and cabinets are just a few of the many exciting options you have when building your own home. You also get to observe the building process in action and see your new home being erected each and everyday. For many people this is fun, because they have put a lot of work into their project and are excited to see it come into fruition.

Building your own home is certainly a lot of work, but the benefits can not be overlooked. Careful planning and patience will go a long way into making sure everything works out just as expected. Believe me, once you move in to your new home you will be thrilled!

Sara Green is the real estate marketing director for Placerville real estate where you can find local school information, full access to the Sacramento California area MLS listings.

Protect Your Homes with the Right Hurricane Shutter

In places where storms are frequent, hurricane shutters are essential. These devices work to protect your homes. Hurricane shutters are usually10F6 placed on windows, especially in a house that is not built with hurricane proof glass.

To help you decide which hurricane shutter is best for your house, let's discuss the different hurricane shutters available on the market. These are:

1. Storm Panel Hurricane Shutter. These are shutters usually made of aluminum or steel. The storm panel shutter type is attached to the walls and doors. It is placed around it and is bolted in. Usually, they come in corrugated style, with each piece overlapping the other for optimum strength.

Usually storm panel shutters come with the houses that are up for sale. And if they do, check every piece properly so you can do the proper adjustment to it. If you find out too late that the panels are too heavy to mount by yourself or there are several pieces missing, the results will not be pleasant.

This is also the cheapest type of hurricane shutters for sale. It is strong enough to provide the proper protection for windows and doors. But since it is removable, it needs a storage area. It may also have sharp edges making it hard to install.

2. Roll Down Hurricane Shutter. This type of shutter is attached just above the window. When in use, you roll it down. Else, you can put it up. It acts just like a metal horizontal blind, only better. It can be installed either with automatic or manual operation.

Roll down shutters will not only protect your house from hurricanes, but from burglary and theft as well. But unfortunately, these are the most expensive type of hurricane shutter, especially if you wanted the automatic one. This type needs backup batteries so they can function even if the power is out.

3. Accordion-Type Hurricane Shutter. This type of shutter can come either in a two-piece or a one-piece deal. It folds and unfolds just like an accordion. Like the roll down, it is fixed in the window. Some models provide the ability to be locked with a key.

Although these shutters are highly functional, it may look hulking outside and does not go well with some of the houses. And because its function relies greatly on the glide wheels, without proper maintenance, it can be stuck and break easily than the other types.

4. Bahama-style Hurricane Shutter. This is a single-piece shutter attached above the windows. It is lowered during the storm and is raised after. Aside from protection, it adds privacy and shade to your homes.

But because of their slanting position, it can block some light from entering the house. Low-end Bahama hurricane shutters are light and weak. If left opened during a storm, it will surely be broken by the strong wind.

5. Colonial Hurricane Shutter. Unlike the other types, this one always comes in pairs. It is attached vertically on the sides of the window and is folded together to protect it. These types can be highly decorative. It can add accent to your windows, especially if you have a colonial type of house.

Although it looks good on a window, it cannot be used on a door. Finding a match for it for your door maybe a hard task. It may also require a storm bar or a center rod so that it can be locked in place.

These are the most common types of hurricane shutters. Choose one style today and protect your homes and your families from uncontrollable natural disasters like storms, hurricanes, and typhoons.

Matthew runs a site dedicated to the latest news and developments in Hurricane Shutters and wood shutters

How To Build Great Bathroom Renovations In Sydney, Australia

A well designed and built bathroom can transform your home with a fresh new look and you can have the use of many years of one of the best enjoyed areas of a home

Just think about it - great decisions have been made in bathrooms! In Sydney Australia, the most important thing to realize is that a bathroom renovation is not a cheap project; it can cost many thousands of dollars. A little planning in the sort term can make a mile of difference in the long term.

The way I approach a bathroom design and renovation is to ask for a budget for the project, and I then tailor a budget for individual needs. A typical plan goes like this;

1. Figure out the space you have to work with by measuring floors, walls and ceiling.

2. Check the conditions of the substructure and walls behind the existing bathroom.

There is a good chance that one the interior is stripped out & their may be issues with rotten flooring. For example, some builders used to use yellow tongue boards and when water came into the equation they would rot

3.Water-pRoofing -when the membrane is to be applied you need to make sure that it is compatible with the tile adhesive. Your builder needs to plan your project & follow correct building code practices. After a thorough inspection, he can then give your new bathroom the best waterpRoofing membrane for adequate protection against moisture and rot.

Case Study

One bathroom I recently inspected for one of my clients in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney had no waterpRoofing system at all! All the timber studs in the wall were rotten and termites had infested the house due to the moisture levels.

The termite control program alone cost over $5,000 the rotten timbers had to be removed and replaced, and THEN correct waterpRoofing had to be installed. Total cost? Over $25,000!

So dont risk it. Make sure with your bathroom renovation that a proper inspection is carried out prior to bathroom renovations, plan ahead, and ensure that correct building practices and standards are adhered to.

Joe is a veteran of numerous home remodeling and building projects. Joe has been in the building and termite prevention game for over 20 years and has been involved in the entire spectrum of home improvement. He shares his home renovation tips, home building ideas, and other various topics at http://www.home-builder.com.au

Your Home Remodeling Creation

10 Tips for Keeping Your Ceramic Tiles Looking Great

You enter the bathroom. You turn on the lights. You dream of having a nice, relaxing bath or a cold, invigorating shower. What you get instead is a strangled shriek and despair.

Yes, ceramic tiles sure brighten up any bathroom or kitchen with their artistic and wonderful designs. We all love that glossy finish and the pearl-like shine. But moldy and dirty ceramic tiles are a big turn off, especially to those who have a fetish about bathing in a spotlessly clean bathroom.

What about your kitchen? Can you bear placing your food atop a surface that looks dubious? Can you imagine the germs sticking themselves to your favorite vegetable? Ewww

Alas, help from professional cleaners may cost us hundreds to thousands of dollars. That money can be better spent on other worthwhile items. All we need to know is how to properly care for our ceramic tiles so theyll keep looking clean and brand new.

1. Wipe Em Daily

Keep this as a mantra to yourself. This is easy enough to do, especially on kitchen counters, and it wont take you more than 15 minutes. All you need is a wiping cloth and some water. Always wipe surfaces after use. This is the best method from keeping dirt and debris from piling up. Dry tiles with a cloth or a sponge to prevent mildew formation.

2. Felt and Pads

Do you have heavy furniture made of wood, metal, aluminum or even plastic? Try to place felt or similar pads to their legs. This111C will help reduce the wear and tear on the tiles and will also facilitate easier shuffling and movement.

3. Protection with Mats

All houses have spots where heavy pivoting occurs. This could be your doorstep, or in front of the kitchen sink or the bathroom door. Situate mats of good quality to protect your tiles from pressure, weight or friction. These mats can also reduce dirt, grit, sand and oil that is deposited in your tiles since the fibers of the mat trap them nicely.

Make sure to wash the mats every once in a while to remove the deposits. Replace worn mats if possible.

4. Weekly Appointments with the Damp Mop

Aside from the daily regimen of wiping them, your ceramic tiles can also benefit a great deal from mopping them with a solution of vinegar and water. Mix cup of vinegar to a gallon or so of water and use this to mop your floor.

Let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Then mop the floor again with tap water to remove most of the vinegar and odor. The mild acidity of the vinegar will promote the death of mildew. Also, refrain from using soaps on the tiles as they will dull they surface.

5. Kiss Grime Away With Bleach

Ooh, your neighbor tracked his mud-soiled boots on your spotless white tiles. Even though you want to beat him up bad, you might want to hold in the urge because you need to act on that dirt, fast! Wipe off most of the dirt with a wet cloth. If there are stubborn streaks remaining on your beautiful tiles, its time to bring out the bleach.

Add about half a liter of bleach to a bucketful of water. Make sure you have your rubber gloves on, since bleach is very harsh on the skin. Mop the floor with the solution and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. After that, try rinsing it with water.

If stains still remain, repeat the process until you get back your shiny, sparkly tile. Remember to wipe it dry with a clean cloth after the procedure.

6. Clean that grout!

Grout is the cemented space between your tiles. White tiles usually have a white grout and white grout is a breeding ground for mildew, molds and dirt.

If you already spot mild discolorations on your growth, its time to mix about of a mild detergent to a bucketful of water. Splash some on the grout and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. After that, try scrubbing the grout with a soft cloth. The color should fade away quickly. Again, wipe your tiles with a dry cloth after the procedure.

7. Abrade me not

NEVER use abrasives and harsh soaps on your tiles. They reduce the shine and polish as well as make cracks and pits that would be a more ideal ground for dirt and grime to settle in. Use only mild soaps and detergents. Always dilute strong acids before using them on your tiles.

8. Can you hand me that toothbrush?

Stubborn dirt and grime in your grouts? Well its time to give them a little push. This will involve getting down on you hands and knees but its all worth it when you see your tiles looking like theyre newly installed.

Again, make a mild detergent solution from cup of detergent to a bucketful of water. You can add a small amount of bleach if you want, but remember to protect your hands and knees. Let it sit for a few minutes.

After that, get a used toothbrush and start scrubbing your grout. Be careful not to damage the side of the tiles. The ugly dirt should give way even with only a little force. Rinse with water and wipe dry.

9. Stock on Drying Cloth and Sponges

You might have noticed that every procedure call for wiping your tiles dry. Thats because there is no sense in performing the task yet leaving molds and mildew for a chance to attack. Remember that these organisms grow best in moist surroundings.

With all that cleaning going on, youll get tired from washing and drying the same cloth everyday so stock up for convenience.

10. Be Patient.

The thing is, people look up handy tips and tricks to cleaning their tiles. But some mail back, feeling very unsatisfied with the results. The usual problem here is PATIENCE. If a specific procedure tells you to wait for 15 minutes, its best to follow it. See, waiting allows the solution to seep into the layers of dirt and grime. The solution loosens up impacted dirt and facilitates removal. This is the key to a successful clean3ABing venture.

With that said, have fun in cleaning and remember: Always wipe it dry.

Lee Dobbins writes for http://tile.pagechic.com where you can learn more about types of tile and tile installation.

Decorating Books

Granite Tile: Stone Cold Beauty

Granite is a decorativ1C84e natural stone that is truly eye-catching, delivering a unique, classy look to any interior or exterior. Granite is as durable as it is beautiful, being one of the hardest substances on earth. Also, to the question of usage and longevity, with proper care, your granite tile project can last a lifetime, transforming a foyer, a kitchen, or even in an outdoor installation (provided youve chosen a non-slip, unpolished finish) into a key feature of a property. Granite tile flooring is, in many cases, the obvious choice for those interested in any kind of natural stone tile flooring or countertops material.

The origins of granite

Granite tile is often a feature in a residence or a commercial building, not only because it is visually impressive, but because of the auspiciousness of having a flooring material which literally took ages to create! Formed deep in the earth, granite is the end result of tremendous heat and pressure applied over thousands of years. Granite is an igneous rock that is described as intrusive. That is, granite is formed when liquid magma is forced between other layers of rock, where it eventually cools and forms a layer of its own. Here, it is fused with elements such as quartz, feldspar and mica among other trace elements. The cooling process is slow, the new layer of rock being shielded by the layers above and below where the molten magma had been forced. The mineral elements which have become suspended in the cooling magma define the crystalline appearance of this unique natural stone. Due to its harsh origins and the lengthy process that suspends so many stabilizing elements within it, granite is an incredibly hard surface. This is material you can trust for durability!

Granite at the Quarry

Once the raw granite has been removed from its bed, first stage in processing granite for the purposes of flooring or countertop slabs is cutting the larger chunks of granite into manageable blocks. These blocks of granite are then further cut to size for use as both slabs and tiles by means of wire saws which are treated with various kinds of durable abrasives, such as sand, aluminum oxide, and diamond. These saws are most commonly used with water as a coolant. Sometimes, high-pressure water jets are used to cut the granite in tandem with the more traditional wire saws. Once the cutting process has been completed, the granite undergoes three processes that make them recognizable as tile flooring or countertop slabs. They are polished on one side, calibrated and gauged. These latter two terms refer to the process of making the back of each tile or slab as even as possible, and the edges as square as possible respectively. Once completed, the granite tile or slab is ready to be shipped to site, ready for your installation.

Popular uses for granite tile for flooring and countertops

Granite tile, being a very versatile material, can be installed in a great many locations in a residential or commercial project. Some of the more popular uses of granite are halls and foyers. Because of their decorative appearance, the popularity of granite tile in these areas is far from surprising. Granite tile helps to create an ambience of professionalism, strength, and permanence when placed in the foyers and halls of an office building. In the home, a granite tile floor can make all the difference in creating a space that is characterized by a singular, refined beauty that complements the surrounding dcor.

Further to this, granite tiles and slabs make a great countertop surfaces. Granite tiles are commonly used as highly suitable backsplashes that can add just the right accent to a kitchen installation. For an outdoor installation, on a terrace for instance, or a walkway, unpolished granite tile can add similar visual accent to a property as well as overall value. If you have leftover granite tile pieces after your installation is complete, granite tile can be cut to size and serve as cutting boards, coasters, fireplace surrounds, and a number of other uses limited only be your imagination and sense of practicality.

Caring for granite tile flooring and countertops

Given the hardness of granite, and the harsh origins that make it extremely resistant to certain types of wear, many of the things you would have to worry about with a lesser material is simply not an issue. For instance, many people choose granite for kitchen countertops and flooring because granite tile and slabs are highly resistant to abrasion caused by cutlery. Granite is also extremely heat-resistant, making it a worry-free countertop solution when it comes to hot pots and plates placed directly on its surface.

However, despite how durable granite tile is, it does require your attention in terms of care. One of the first things to consider is the application of an appropriate sealant. The choice of sealant may be determined by the variety of granite tile youve chosen to install, and where youve chosen to install it. Generally, a sealant is required to protect your granite tile from moisture, which is the most insidious enemy of any building material. As to the specific brands and varieties, talk to your local retailer or flooring expert about which one is the most effective choice with regard to your specific choice in granite tile.

Many of the other approaches to caring for your granite tile come down to common sense; clean up spills right away, keep your granite tile free of dirt and grit that can scratch the polish, and see about which types of cleaners and polishes are most appropriate to granite tile. Also, consider what you are prepared to do to maintain your granite tile surface. A level of commitment is needed in order to keep the sheen of the polished granite tile the same as it is when you first lay it down.

Granite: All this and brains too!

Granite tile and slabs are both a decorative and practical choice, making your choice of granite both a stylish and smart one indeed! Due to its hardness, its resistance to heat and other forms of stress, as well as the versatility which is offered by granite tile, you are making an investment that will add value to your property and one which will be the source of a tremendous pride of ownership. The production of granite has been millions of years in the making, made by the greatest manufacturer there is the earth itself. For a lasting durability designed by nature that is stone cold gorgeous too, granite may be the best idea youve ever had!

Granite Tile Dos and Donts

Here are a few things to think about when you are considering granite tile for your project:

Do:

Consider the area where you intend to install granite tile. Make sure that factors such as moisture levels, foot traffic, and slip resistance are carefully considered. Consider what type of surface is the best polished, honed, or brushed (AKA flamed) are popular varieties in granite tile, each better suited to certain areas than others. Polished granite is great for countertops and low traffic areas, but often becomes slippery when wet. Honed flooring is more all-purpo5B4se, but may be considered less decorative by some. Brushed or flamed granite tile is most commonly used outdoors

Read all warranty information before purchase

Look into hiring a flooring tile professional to help you as working with granite can be very strenuous, due to its weight particularly. When in doubt, its always best to get experienced help

Inspect the whole batch before beginning an installation for possible breakage and any other issues, and consult your terms and conditions as to how to see about compensation, if any

Expect color variations in your batch of granite tile. Remember, granite is a natural material. Use these natural color variations found in your batch to your advantage. Get as creative with your layout as you can

Lay out all of your granite tiles in a dry run before applying mortar or other chosen adhesive agent.

Choose a sealant that best suits your choice in granite tile. Ask your sales rep or flooring professional about specific varieties and brand names

Initiate a cleaning and maintenance regimen; choose the appropriate cleaners and polishes based on experienced advice in order to make sure your granite tile retains all of its natural beauty

Dont:

Install granite tile on an uneven, dirty or wet subfloor

Leave spills to sit on your granite tile floorin5A8g or countertops. It is important to avoid excessive moisture as this is what contributes to the wear of any building material. Also, liquids with an acid base are often culprits of stubborn stains

Allow dirt and grit to remain on the surface of your granite tile. These elements can affect the finish over time and take away from the natural beauty of granite

Use acid-based cleaners or other agents on your granite tile. This can be a major source of wear on your tile, cause stains to become permanent, and dull the finish as well. Avoid using any product your no sure about

Forget to thoroughly rinse your granite tile once youve used a recommended cleaner, or forget to change dirty water or solution which you are using to clean the tile

Use scouring powders, steel wool, or other abrasive materials to remove stains from your granite tile

Obviously this is not a complete list. Once again, one of the best courses of action to take to ensure that granite tile is the right choice for a flooring or countertop solution is to consult with the experts. This way, you are benefiting from years of experience which will allow you to avoid costly mistakes. It will also help to make sure that your granite tile will be as attractive and long lasting as it is meant to be with you as its best ally!

Rob Jones is Communications Coordinator with BuildDirect, a leading online wholesaler of building products. Rob writes articles for commercial contractors and DIYers on features, installation, and maintenance of building materials used in commercial and residential projects. These articles focus on materials such as flooring, decking, roofing, and siding, and other related topics.

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