Hot Tub Enclosures You Can Build on Your Own

There are many different types of hot tub enclosures you can buy online, usually in kits that you assemble yourself. The kits contain all the materials you need as well as detailed instructions to help you with every step of the process. Once you make the purchase of a hot tub, you do need to have some sort of enclosure so that you can enjoy this great feature and benefit from water therapy at all times of the year. You can install the hot tub on the deck and find an enclosure to fit the space that you have available.



Many manufacturers specialize in the design of hot tub enclosures of all shapes and sizes. Just because it looks elaborate doesn't mean it comes with an exorbitant price tag.
There are many types of accessories you can add to the enclosure to increase the level of enjoyment you can get from it. This includes choosing fabricated awnings, for example, rather than prefabricated awnings.



You can easily purchase manuals online and off in different retails locations to help you build your own hot tub enclosures (http://www.mybath.biz/servlet/the-Hot-Tub-Enclosures/Categories). This allows you the freedom to choose a design or get information to help you design your own. Once you have the list of construction materials you will need, you can shop around at various locations to get the cheapest price and in this way you will save money. Through such manuals you will get expert advice about how to connect the plumbing to the hot tub, connect the wiring you need and even how to hide portions of the enclosure to provide privacy for the users.



The secret to having a hot tub enclosure of your dreams is to combine an exceptional design with good carpentry skills. You first should look at the area in which you want to place the hot tub and then think about the reasons you have for building an enclosure. For example, if you want to have a hot tub on your deck, but which will provide you with privacy from the prying eyes of neighbors when you are inside, you can design it so that the windows are facing towards the house and that the door opening is on this side as well.



In the prefabricated kits for hot tub (http://www.mybath.biz/servlet/the-Hot-Tubs/Categories) enclosures, you can choose to have benches for sitting on when not in the tub, planters, bar tables, and more so that this will become the main area in which you do your entertaining. You can have it designed just like a professional spa if you choose. The construction materials can be anything that you choose to match the exterior decor of your home. The kits you can purchase for this purpose offer you a choice of aluminum, vinyl and acrylic materials for the construction so that they will withstand the elements of the weather.



Hot tub enclosures are almost like private gazebos or cabins and provide you with the ultimate location to relax and unwind. Why would you have to leave your home to take a vacation when you have what you need right in your backyard or on your patio? In addition, when you add an enclosure to your hot tub, you automatically increase the resale value of your home if you should ever decide to sell.

About the Author:
Allison Ryan is a freelance marketing writer from San Diego, CA. She specializes in home improvement and landscaping. For the ideal hot tub enclosures for your home or backyard, please visit the premier hot tub site, http://www.mybath.biz/.

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7 Tips For Bathroom Tile Installation The Best Way

7 Tips For Bathroom Tile Installation The Best Way


by Al Bullington


Ceramic tile works great anywhere it's wet. That's why tile is the perfect choice for bathroom floor tiles and walls. Bathroom tile installation is often a favorite do it yourself project too. Install tile and you get a more beautiful and useful home and a more valuable one too. You see ceramic bathroom tiles make your home more valuable and easier to sell too. If you plan to install bathroom tile, here are seven tips for a successful project.
Think Creative With Bathroom Tile Installation

Tile comes in so many shapes, colors and textures that you can design an endless variety of looks. Of course you can install a wall or floor that's all the same design, that's fine. That's not the only way to do it though. Why not use different colors of tile is a pattern. Maybe you prefer to just mix in a few different tiles of a different pattern just for some variety. Another option is to choose border tiles of a different color, texture or pattern. This is a chance to practice some art in floor design.

Design Then Shop

Try sketching out some ideas before you do much shopping. Try different patterns and colors on paper until you get a general idea of what you like. See, choosing the tile is a major part of the project. Once you have some ideas, shopping will be easier since you've narrowed your choices.

Gather Tools

If you will install the bathroom tiles yourself, you'll need to gather your tools. Any project is worth buying a few new tools. Tile installation requires just a few special tools. The major decision is how you will cut tiles. A professional saw is the best option, but you're looking at major money. You could rent a saw, but that puts pressure on you to hurry. You could also buy a light duty saw. That may be plenty good enough for just a few small jobs. Other tools you need are trowels, a mixing attachment for your drill, tile nippers and then a host of other small items.

Get The Base Right

In the rush to lay tiles, it is easy to overlook a basic step. You can lay tile over all kinds of surfaces. But whatever the surface, it should be smooth, clean and solid. Bouncy floors that move result in cracked tiles. Often the first step for a professional tile setter is to put down a layer of cement board.

Lay Dry Tiles

An easy, cheap way to get the tile in the right place is to practice. Put tiles in place with no adhesive to see how the surface will look. That beats sticking tiles down and then pulling them up again.

Cuts Are Key

Tiles are cut with a wet saw. Also you can use a cutter board and tile nippers. The nippers are the main cutter for small cuts and they are the key to curved cuts too. Planning cuts will help you put the cut tiles in the right place. Put the cuts where they are least visible for best results.

Spacers Keep It Straight

Get the first tile in the right place and you're off to a good start. Tile spacers come in different widths and are the best way to keep going straight. Experienced tile setters can keep all the lines just right by eye. Less experienced tile setters use spacers, chalk lines and carpenter squares to get the same result just a little slower.

Bathroom tile installation is a step by step process. A little thought and planning saves time and money. Think of the satisfaction you can get from designing a bathroom tile surface just like you want. Do it yourself and you can point to a project that's a result of your own efforts and new skills.

You can get access to video tutorials showing the professional tricks for bathroom tile installation .

Al Bullington invites you to visit http://InstallingCeramicTile.net for more ceramic tile hints.
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Home Audio Speakers: Improving Your Home Theater With Proper Speakers

Title:
Home Audio Speakers: Improving Your Home Theater With Proper Speakers


Summary:
Having the right speakers for your home theater room – correct size, proper sound output, and fitting aesthetics – brings the entire room together in one cohesive piece. When looking at new home speakers, consider the size of the room, the appropriate speaker size, the number of speakers that you are going to be using, and what is within your price range for sound equipment. You may also want to consider more aesthetic items like speaker placement and the overall look of your...



Article Body:
Having the right speakers for your home theater room – correct size, proper sound output, and fitting aesthetics – brings the entire room together in one cohesive piece. When looking at new home speakers, consider the size of the room, the appropriate speaker size, the number of speakers that you are going to be using, and what is within your price range for sound equipment. You may also want to consider more aesthetic items like speaker placement and the overall look of your home theater design with speakers.

When it comes to finding home speakers, the first thing to do is analyze the size of the room. You want to take a good look at how much space you have, and then do some calculations about your speaker placement and number of speakers. For instance, if the room is very large, you are going to want to place your speakers much higher. If it is small, speakers on the floor will cut down on echoes and make it easier to align your entire sound system. In-wall speakers are another option that will allow you to have quality sound from all parts of the room without dealing with the potential clutter of floor standing speakers.

The next thing to consider is the size of the speakers themselves. Each speaker type (front, side, subwoofer) come in different sizes depending on how they will be mounted, the quality of the sound and the type of application they will be used for. Larger speakers may be able to give you richer, deeper sound but that sort of sound may not be necessary for the size and layout of your particular home theater room. Additionally, quality speaker manufacturers are improving on the sound quality of smaller speakers every year. Large room sound may soon not require the use of large floorstanding or cabinet speakers. Consider the size of the in-wall speakers you prefer as well. The size of the speaker will equate to the portion of your wall that will need to be removed in order to place the speakers. A custom home theater installer can help with defining the parameters for the home theater speaker size best for your home.

The number of speakers your room needs is another item to consider. Several of the speaker brands offer different lines of speakers that include three, five or seven speaker configurations. Consult with a home audio technician or custom installer about what is the best proportion for your home if you are unsure of what you will need.

Speakers for any home theater are no longer outside of many people’s reach. Home theater equipment is available in a wide range of pricing suitable for any budget. Quality speakers by top-brands are available within the range of average home owners and top of the line speakers are also available for audio junkies who have a fine ear for sound and a fascination with the technology. Don’t let pricing stop you from getting the right type of speakers for your home. Talk to a custom installer about your price range and what is most important to you when it comes to the sound quality in your home theater.

Consider these important items as you develop your home theater’s audio system.
Keywords:
home theater design, home theater installation, speaker placement, home speakers, in-wall speakers,

~ Ben Anton, 2009
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Home Improvement

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Choosing the Right Type of Residential Lighting

Choosing the Right Type of Residential Lighting
Lighting is one of the first things people notice and it is an essential element of an attractive home. Good, energy-efficient lighting is more economical than poorly thought-out lighting. Many contractors and builders will work directly with their customers to select lighting systems that not only operate economically in new and remodeled houses but also effectively meet people's visual needs at home.

The first thing you need to consider when deciding upon the type of residential lighting you want for your home, is how energy efficient your choice is. A convenient way to achieve energy-efficient lighting is to use "ENERGY STAR" labeled lighting fixtures. These labeled lighting fixtures use less energy than other fixtures, which in turn saves you money on utility bills, and helps to protect the environment.

Your best bet is to choose fixtures that can use compact fluorescent lamps. Low voltage halogen spotlights and floodlights provide beautiful accent lighting. New fluorescent fixtures have practically no flicker or hum, can be dimmed, provide incandescent-like warmth, and last more than five times longer than incandescent lamps. This minimizes both replacement cost and the need to access hard-to-reach places to change a light bulb.

Interestingly enough, it seems that this type of residential lighting makes people look good, looks warm in color, makes colors and furniture look good and therefore many people want this type of lighting in their own homes.

Outdoor lighting is key for not only the “curb appeal” of a home but also for the security. The first step to having an efficient and safe home is to simply purchase outdoor lighting fixtures and then experiment with numerous lighting techniques in outdoor settings. Dramatic uplighting, downlighting, backlighting and wall splashing effects can all be achieved with some practice. Balance in both placement and intensity will make all the difference.

Keeping a home secure is at the top of most people’s list. Outside flood lighting reduces the risk of burglary by highlighting the exterior of a home at night. Choose from lights that remain on all night or motion-sensitive lights that come on only when someone approaches your home. Motion-sensitive lights save energy and could catch a would-be thief by surprise.

Making sure you have the proper residential lighting is such an important responsibility as a homeowner. Do your homework and find the companies that will provide you with the best quality and service. Remember that proper lighting improves the function, appearance and energy efficiency of a home.

About the Author: Having just updated their home, Kim green and family spent many hours researching the benefits of residential lighting before choosing the updates that suited their home.
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Don't Overlook Downspouts and Gutters

Don't Overlook Downspouts and Gutters
When the rain starts to fall, the downspouts are there to whisk away the threat of leaks and damage to your home. They provide a fundamental service to your home that can minimize the risk of damage to basements, crawl spaces and even foundation shifts. Faulty gutter and drainage systems can also damage your roof and erode your landscaping. By regularly maintaining and inspecting your gutters, however, you can minimize the risks of damage.

The best place to start is with a simple cleaning to make sure your gutters and downspouts are operating properly. It is a good idea to have your gutters cleaned near the end of each spring and fall, when debris such as limbs and leaves are at their heaviest amounts. Obviously, the extent and frequency of cleaning can be adjusted based upon the proximity of large trees to your home and property.

While cleaning them out yourself is a viable option, hiring a professional can help in making sure the gutters and spouts and completely clear and operating smoothly. The cost of having gutters cleaned professional varies based upon the size of your home, ease of access to the roof and number of trees nearby. Periodic checks are also an important element of routine maintenance, such as tightening the screws that attach gutters to your home. You may also find that your downspouts can get periodically clogged, which can be remedied by running a garden hose down the length of the spout to clear the obstruction. As a general rule, if you can keep the entrance holes of the downspouts free of ice and debris, they will function extremely well.

No matter how well you maintain your gutters and downspouts the day will eventually come when they need to be replaced. The investment is worth it when you consider the consequences of a faulty system. As an added advantage, installing new gutters can also enhance the appearance of your home. Homeowners often try to install the gutters themselves, but a professional typically handles this project the best. If the gutters are not installed properly, it can lead to overflow back into the overhang and cause serious damage to your home. Hiring a professional may also allow you to take advantage of seamless gutter offerings, which minimize leaks that can drip down onto your landscape and foundation. Instead of hanging ten foot sections of guttering on your home, a seamless gutter is produced by a machine in a solid piece up to 100 feet long.

In addition, while popular opinion regarding their performance may vary, a variety of gutter covers are available to keep leaves and other debris from falling into your gutters. While some gutter covers do not prevent all debris from getting into the gutters, they do prevent larger debris and leaves from making their way into the gutters.

About the Author: Ki's lives, and works, in Austin, Texas. His website focuses on Austin real estate. It includes a search of Austin MLS listings and has information and statistics on Davenport Ranch Austin Texas.
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Saving the environment by using eco-friendly cleaning products

Saving the environment by using eco-friendly cleaning products
It is hard to imagine this however most of us often use very toxic chemicals to clean our homes. I bet if you were to look under your sink there would be a couple of hazardous cleaning products that you use in your day-to-day cleaning routine. Now let?s take a moment to think about this; we are polluting our homes with toxins-cleaning our children?s toys, the floors that our children and pets play on, the sinks our children use to wash in, the bathtubs we bath them in, all toxic. Not to mention the pollution that these toxins send into our environment. If we were to look at it that way, maybe we could put a stop to the use of those toxic chemicals.

There are a lot of eco-friendly cleaning products out there in the market. Even Canada has been promoting eco-friendly cleaning products that can improve energy efficiency, can also reduce hazardous by-products, and use recycled materials. Simple chemical free cleaning solutions can be found in your cupboards. You can use baking soda and vinegar, lemons, and even a little elbow of grease.

Because baking soda is a rough cleanser, it can dissolve dirt, mildew, grease, and wax. There are a lot of uses for baking soda that we don?t even know about. For example: you can turn it into a paste and it can remove dirt and grime. Mix 4 tablespoons of baking soda with 1-quart water and this can be used as a multi purpose cleaner; it can even remove odor from clothes, carpets, and refrigerators.

Vinegar is also a great disinfect and deodorizer. It can also be used as a multi- purpose cleaner and even as a fabric softener. Just mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and you can clean anything and deodorize everything you wish.

Since lemons are acidic, they can actually work as a bleaching agent and has antibacterial properties to clean brass, copper, and even white clothes with stains. They are also a good deodorizer for sinks and clothes.

Steam is another great way to clean without chemicals. There are many great steamers on the market that are simple to use. You just add water, plug-in the steamer, let it heat-up and push the button. The steam will do all the work to clean and disinfect. Steam also kills germs such as salmonella and other bacteria. It?s safe and cost effective. The only investment is the actual steamer which can run you anywhere from $30-$150.

Choosing the right tools in cleaning your house is easy if you give importance to the environment you live in-both inside and outside of your home. If you still find that using these traditional methods don?t pass your standards, there are still a lot eco-friendly cleaning products out there that were made without chemicals. Just make sure you read the labels to ensure that the eco-friendly products you buy are in fact chemical free. Some companies can be sneaky! However, in the end natural is safer and will even let you save more money than the usual toxic products.


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About the Author: Sabrina Rocca
Author: "The Ultimate House Cleaning Checklist Book"
For more great cleaning tips, visit http://www.housecleaningchecklist.ca and sign up for your FREE speed-cleaning course.
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Cleaning Shower Walls

Cleaning Shower Walls
Cleaning Stone Showerwalls: (Daily to Weekly)


Dry/Dust mop the floor at least twice per week.
Pour 2 ounces of Marbalex into a clean bucket of water.
(Be sure that the bucket has been thoroughly cleaned out if it has been used before with another cleaner.)
Using a clean rayon sponge, gently apply the Marbalex on to the surface without making large puddles.
Let the surface dry. There is no rinsing required.


Cleaning Tile & Grout Showerwalls: (Daily-Weekly)


Remove all abrasive debris from the floor surface.
Mix 1-2 ounces of Ceramiclean per gallon of warm water.
With a clean bucket and clean rayon or sponge mop, apply the Ceramiclean to the surface.
Let the solution dry.
Rinsing is only required for heavily soiled surfaces


Sealing: (Every 1-2 years)


Surface must be dry for 6-12 Hours.
Cover surrounding areas that are not intended to be sealed.
Liberally spray the surface until it is wet.
When the surface begins to dry within 3-5 minutes, wet the surface again with the sealer.
After 30 minutes, wipe off any excess sealer with a clean and dry white terry cloth or towel.


Polishing & Enriching Color: (Monthly)


Shake the bottle before using and apply the polish to the stone surface with a clean, dry and white terry cloth towel.
Let the polish dry to a haze for 2 minutes.
Wipe off the haze with a clean, dry and white terry cloth towel.
* Do not use on floors.


Disinfecting: (Weekly)


Simply spray Counterrific on to the surface and let it stay wet for five minutes.
Wipe off with a clean and dry paper towel.
If any streaks appear, simply spray again and wipe off immediately.


Restoring the Color of Grout: (As Needed)


Ensure surface is free from grease, dirt and other contaminants.
Shake well with cap on before use. Remove cap, and then press pen down vertically for a minute until you see the ink starting to flow.
Apply two (2) coats an hour apart.
Replace cap when not in use. * If grout is dirty, clean with SCI's Ceramiclean before using the Grout Ink.
* 4. Note: Ink colors may appear slightly different from the color of the pen caps.

About the Author: yuxiang granite tile,quartz stone and marble tile
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How to Clean Wood Burning Fireplaces

How to Clean Wood Burning Fireplaces
You should clean your wood burning fireplace at least once a year to get the most out of it and ensure your safety. If fireplaces aren't cleaned, the built-up soot and creosote inside the firebox and the chimney can release carbon monoxide or start a fire in your chimney. If possible, hire a professional chimney sweep to clean and inspect your chimney and fireplace once a year. If this isn't possible, you can perform the annual maintenance yourself, but it's wise to have the chimney professionally inspected at least every few years. A cracked chimney is a dangerous chimney.

Cleaning Wood Burning Fireplaces

To clean your fireplace and chimney, you'll need:

* Flue brush
* Ladder
* Rubber gloves
* Goggles
* Dust mask
* Stiff nylon brush
* Drop cloth
* Newspaper
* Vacuum
* Trash can and bags
* Ash can
* Glass cleaner and soft cloth
*

1. Lay down a drop cloth in front of the fireplace. Put on the gloves, goggles, and dust mask, and then sweep any ash into an ash can and dispose of it outside.

2. If you have a gas starter, turn it off.

3. Remove glass doors and clean with glass cleaner or vacuum metal screens.

4. Remove the andirons or grate. Take them outside to clean them with a vacuum, wire brush, and de-greaser, if necessary.

5. Vacuum the inside of the firebox.

6. Lay a drop cloth down inside the fireplace, and then cover the drop cloth with newspapers. Set up the trash can within easy reach.

7. Open the damper.

8. Go outside. Inspect the chimney's mortar and bricks or stones for cracks as you climb the ladder.

9. Remove the chimney cap. Scrub the flue with a flue brush.

10. Go back inside. Bundle the debris in a layer of newspaper and throw out.

11. Kneel inside the fire box. With the stiff nylon brush, gently scrub the inside of the fire box from the top down to remove soot, creosote, and grime. Only go up as far as the lintel.

12. Scrub the damper and the lower part of the flue to remove additional soot and creosote.

13. Bundle the debris in newspaper and throw it out.

14. Remove the drop cloth and vacuum the fire box again.

15. Re-install the doors and andirons. If you have a gas starter, turn it back on.

Cleaning a chimney is a difficult task and can be very time-consuming if you aren't properly trained. Save yourself time and hassle by hiring a professional to clean your chimney. If you have asthma or other breathing disorders, don't attempt this yourself. If your fireplace is very dirty, please call a professional who knows how to properly maintain your fireplace.


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About the Author: Lisa Becker is an avid home decorator and writes for Fireplace Mantels 123: Shop For Your Perfect Fireplace Mantel and Surround. Her expertise regarding fireplace mantels and surrounds provides insight into the world of interior design and home decorating.

For the rest of the article, check out Fireplace Mantel Ideas and Buying Guide.
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Makeover Your Bathroom

If you don't count common little nicks, cuts and stings in the kitchen, the bathroom is the most dangerous room in the house, especially for a senior. For seniors, a bathroom accident can have life-changing consequences.

Acrylic baths, these should be rinsed and dried with a soft cloth after use, especially when bath cubes or bubble bath have been used, as these leave deposits on the surface. Clean with neutral detergent, if you have a build up use a non-abrasive cream cleaner, rinse and buff. Where the surface is scratched, rub gently with a proprietary metal cleaner and buff well when the mark has gone.

There are single hole faucets, which come with one or two handles attached to the spout itself. This is a very simple faucet design that is ideal for smaller sinks. Homeowners who like the look of a single-hole faucet but have a sink with 4" hole drillings, should look for a faucet with an optional deck plate that covers the extra holes and still maintains the faucet design.

Everyone loves a clean and sterile bathroom. Keeping the toilet clean also improves the feng shui of that space. Besides the obvious hygiene and health reasons, a dirty toilet creates a lot of negative chi that can not only hurt the health of the home's occupants, but also create bad feng shui for the whole household. If possible, every toilet in the house should have a window, or some form of ventilation. The window allows all the unhealthy chi to escape and the sunlight entering the bathroom can help keep the chi flow healthy.

Provide storage for the bathroom cleaning supply. It would be great if there were an area in the bathroom that could hold your cleaning supplies. This will make cleaning fast and easier. If you want to wipe the mirror, you can easily reach for the rag. If you noticed that the bowl needs some cleaning, you can easily grab the cleaning tools. Just make sure that it is out of your kids' reach.

And this is a key decorating point: Your room colors don't have to match exactly. They should simply compliment each other. So in our sea green bathroom decor example above, it would be perfectly natural to add a set of solid tan colored towels, burnt orange wash cloths, and an area rug with touches of blue in it. If the blue doesn't seem to fit quite right for your tastes, then try a deep forest green colored rug instead.

The temperature in the shade is often up to 10 degrees cooler, so shade can make a lot of difference. When looking to purchase a home, keep this in mind. Look to see that any large windows will not receive direct summer sun. You might even want to try to view the home during the hottest part of the day. You can see how often the air kicks on and how hot it is near windows.

Paint your bathroom sink and give it a very classy look. You may want to consider painting some nice designs on your sink to give it a touch of class. You could visit some home improvement showrooms and see if they have any sink painting designs to go by. If you are unsuccessful at finding any examples you should be able to find some nice designs online
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Decorate the cooking place with Kitchen Tiles

Kitchen Tiles are available in different styles, colours and patterns and these tiles can give an adorable look to one's kitchen.

For creating a unique design or style, one can use the different patterns or colour schemes. Kitchen tiles are not only used for floors but they can also be used as fittings on the walls and the counter tops of kitchens.

There are unique and different hand-painted kitchen tiles for kitchen oriented decoration. Since the year 1922, ceramic kitchen tiles have been highly preferred and these tiles are hand-painted with special oxide compositions.

They are resistant to food plunges and all the standard grazes or scratches that are daily occurrences taking place during cooking. These tiles can be easily cleaned by any detergents due to the fact that these detergents do not leave any damage on those stunning and pretty designs.

They go quite well with granite cabinet counter tops. An interesting way to adorn the kitchen would be to fit the colourful, single design and unique ceramic kitchen tiles in between the plain tiles which makes the kitchen amazing and beautiful.

Most of the painted tiles in the market are made from ceramic. The ceramic tiles are continuously gaining popularity because these tiles offer a wide range of colours and designs. To choose a ceramic tile panorama for the kitchen back splash can be a fun task to do.

People, therefore, invest lots of their time and money to identify and buy the beautiful and unique kitchen back splash tile because it will be an attractive centre piece of kitchen and will, therefore invest a pleasant atmosphere.

Kitchen tiles are very enduring and are, therefore, perfect for covering the kitchen walls and floors. They are long-lasting and offer various styles. The biggest advantage of these tiles is that, they are resistant to splashes and stains. Ceramic tiles are great choices for kitchen counter tops.

The types of kitchen tiles are many with ceramic, porcelain and glass tiles being available. So anyone can make his or her own choice and select the right tile for his or her dream kitchen.

Nowadays these tiles are available online as well on various websites. This feature eliminates the need to visit shops and encounter an unruly crowd along with over-enthusiastic salesmen who are more annoying rather than being convincing.

About the Author: Jason Colling is a renowned writer, who has written articles on various interior designing techniques related to floor decor. His articles focus on various uses of porcelain tiles , kitchen tiles ,floor tiles,natural stones and adhesives.
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Window Repair Tips: Saving Money

Although windows can be one of the homes most attractive features they can come at a cost. If you fail to protect your windows properly your utility bills will rise significantly. There are a few different "window repair tips" that can help you save money without having to replace your windows entirely. When people think of "window repair tips" they don't stop to think about how easy and affordable they can really be. Your first step should be to check around each window looking for any cracks that may be letting cold air in. If you do find some you should seal them immediately considering twenty-five percent of peoples heating costs are attributed to the cold air coming in through windows. Two of the "window repair tips" that come highly recommended to help increase your energy savings are silicone beads and nylon pyle weather seals. They require only a handful of minutes to be placed around your window sash in order to finish the job. Storm windows are always a good feature to have; they protect your work as well as keep the cold from directly hitting your windows. Storm windows are hardly noticeable, and can be taken down easily in the spring and stored away for use next winter. Without actually making a repair, there are many quick and easy things you can do that will help you lower heat loss and conserve energy. Heavy window shades or drapes will insulate your windows and help keep the cold out and the heat in. You can also block heat loss by covering your windows with thick clear plastic that will ensure that all leaks around your window is blocked. You can buy the plastic or shrink wrap kits specifically for this purpose at any hardware store. Although plastic over your windows may sound unappealing they stay hidden under your drapes, and shades throughout the winter months. The shrink wrap kits that you can find are actually such a clear plastic that you can still see through them, this is another reason why many people choose them over traditional plastic. In addition to all other repairs that need to be taken care of, glass repair is the one that should not be forgotten. Any chips in your windows need to be repaired to avoid further damage during winter time. Windows that have a few years on their back should be replaced by double-pane windows.

About the Author: While windows are often among the most attractive aspects of a home, they do carry a price. Failure to adequately protect the windows in your home can cause significant increases in the cost of utilities. There are several "window repair tips" that can help you eliminate these costly increases without the need to completely replace your windows. The final thing to remember is the need to stay up to date with your "glass repair". Any type of chipping in your windows should be sealed promptly. This helps to avoid the chip from becoming a crack during cold weather.
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Why You Should Use Velux Blinds In Your House

Do you have trouble breathing in your home? Several people believe that they do not have any trouble or that they may recognize that they have a breathing problem and do not refer it to their home. But this can be. In fact some people have this trouble because their house is not well ventialted. Well ventilated homes are best-known to be happier and more exhilarating places to be.

You might be asking your self is my house well ventilated? It can be but - houses with Velux skylights are decidedly well ventilated. Not only will your skylight allow an fresh cool breeze air that makes you to feel settled and energized entirely but it will bring in natural sunlight that will beautify and freshen your house.

With a skylight you will be given all the advantages from the outside brought inside your home where you in all likelihood spend most of the time with your family. This fresh air and sunlight will assist to get rid of unwanted odors, mold, and VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds).

But with awesome luxury you will need a method to handle the measure of sunlight and air that enters in through these windows. All you will need to do is set up Velux blinds into your skylights.

These blinds work good with these types of Skylights because they are pre sized and offer you the total control over the quantity of light you bring in your home. There are numerous contrasting kinds of Velux Blinds that you can pick out from to fit any décor. You can choose from pleated, roller, blackout, duo, or the popular Venetian blinds.

About the Author: There are many Advantages of Velux Blinds. One of the best ways to improve the look of your home is with the right Velux Awning Blinds.
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Table Lamps: What they can do for your Home

Are you thinking about adding some table lamps to your home? If so, this is a great move for a number of reasons. Many people have these accessories all over their home for one reason or the next. There is a good chance that buying one table lamp will lead to many others over time.

The main benefit of a table lamp is the light that it can give off. For instance, if you put a table lamp on your desk you can use it when it is dim in your room or you need a bit of extra light for writing, reading, etc. With so many different types of table lamps for sale it is easy to find one that fits perfectly no matter what setup you are working with.

Of course, there are other benefits of table lamps as well. Most importantly, they look good. Do you need a way to spice up a room in your home? If so, a table lamp can do the job. Remember, you can place these in pretty much any room in your home. You should not have any issues find a lamp that fits your space and décor.

As you can see, table lamps can do a lot of good for your home. In addition to bringing in additional light, they also look good at the same time. If you are interested in buying a table lamp take your time. There are many of them for sale ranging from small to large and cheap to expensive. In the end, you should be able to find the perfect lamp for any room in your home!


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About the Author: http://mytablelamp.com offers a wide variety of affordable quality table lamps and lighting. We currently have the types of lamps divided into the following categories: Art Glass, Bases, Boutique, Buffet, Classic, Contemporary, Desk, Mica, Mission, Rustic, Tiffany, Unique, and Wood. We also provide the ability to search for lamps by text search, price, and the height of the lamp.
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What are the common Bathroom Remodeling Tools You May Need

Are you looking to start a bathroom remodeling project soon? If so, do you have all of the items that you will need? When it comes to bathroom remodeling or just about any other home improvement project, many individuals automatically think of the materials that will be used. If you are looking to replace your bathtub, of course, you will need a replacement bathtub, but how will you get that bathtub installed without tools? You can’t. That is why it is important to know what you tools you will need before starting your next bathroom remodeling project.

When it comes to tools, you will find that the tools used with all depend on the remodeling that is being done. For instance, if you are planning on remodeling your entire bathroom, you will likely need more tools than you would if you were just replacing your bathroom cabinets. Despite the fact that different bathroom remodeling projects often call for different tools, you will find that some tools can be used on just about all bathroom remodeling projects. It might be a good idea to keep these tools, which are listed below, on hand at all times.

One of the many tools that you will want to have on hand, when remodeling your bathroom, is a pair of pliers. Pliers are one of those tools that you may need to use on a regular basis, not just for a kitchen remodeling project. Therefore, there is a good chance that you already have a pair of pliers in your home or on your tool belt.

It is also advised that you have a tape measure on hand, when preparing to start your next bathroom remodeling project. Whether you are looking to install a new light fixture or tile your bathroom floor, a tape measure could come in handy. In addition to a tape measure, you may also want to make sure that you have a level. Using a level with a tape measure will not only help to ensure that your cabinets or wall hangings are centered, but that they are also level.

Another tool that you should always have on hand, when remodeling your bathroom, is a screwdriver. In fact, unless you have a multi-function screwdriver, you may even need to have to have more than one screwdriver on hand. Even better than a multi-function screwdriver is a screw gun. Screwdrivers are a great, yet simple way to help speed up your next bathroom remodeling project.

It is also advised that you have a ladder on hand, when remodeling your bathroom. Ladders are used to help reach high places. If you need to paint your bathroom ceiling or even replace your bathroom lights, you may need to use a ladder. In addition to a ladder, it may be a good idea to keep a small stepstool on hand. Stepstools are great for helping you reach high spaces that are high enough to need assistance, but not high enough to need a ladder. Stepstools are also nice because most tend to take up a relatively small amount of space.

In addition to all of the above mentioned tools, it is also important to place a focus on safety. If and when you go out to purchase new kitchen remodeling tools, it is advised that you also purchase some safety equipment, especially if you don’t already own some. Safety equipment includes, but is not limited to, work gloves, construction hats, face masks, and safety goggles.

The above mentioned kitchen remodeling tools and safety equipment pieces are just a few of the many items that you may need. For an accurate list of tools that may need to be used during your next bathroom remodeling project, you are advised to review the remodeling projects that you have scheduled, as well as their directions. Doing so is the best way to not only know what to expect, but also to know what tools you may need to go out and buy.
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How to spice up your kitchen…for cheap!

As a home owner in a down-hill economy, the thought of remodeling your kitchen probably seems way too expensive to even consider. Fortunately, there are ways you can spice up your kitchen with a nominal budget. All you need is some creativity and a helping hand and you are just a few steps away from upgrading your outdated kitchen to a modern delight.

The first improvement you want to do is paint. Re-painting your kitchen with a vibrant color will make your kitchen look bigger and contemporary. Grab a family member or one of your friends and get the paint rollers. All you need is one Saturday and you will have your entire kitchen painted. Most painters will charge you anywhere between $300-600 to paint your kitchen. Depending on the size, you should be able to paint the whole thing for under $150-200.

The next easy remodel you should consider is either re-painting or re-staining your cabinets (depending on the type of material). Just like you did with the walls, grab some rollers and a companion and you could have this job completed in a day. Re-staining your cabinetry will give your kitchen a fresh, new look without having to shell out thousands of dollars to get new cabinets installed. You could always buy new cabinets (depending on the condition) at wholesale, but the manual labor will probably be a big pain. Unless your cabinets are falling apart, just go with the re-stain/paint.

A couple of other really easy, inexpensive upgrades you can make to your kitchen are lighting and window coverings. You can go to any hardware or home goods store and buy your self both of these items. For light fixtures, recessed lighting is the way to go. You can achieve a very modern, clean look with recessed lighting. Plus, they are easy to install and there are hundreds of inexpensive options available. Window coverings, whether blinds or curtains, are also easy to install and relatively cheap. Just pick something that contrasts well with your paint job and the over all theme of the kitchen.

There are also a lot of little detailed improvements you can make that are character to you as an individual such as paintings, plants etc. Whatever else you plan on doing, keep in mind, that these minor, relatively easy improvements will undoubtedly help increase or at least retain the value of your home.

About the Author: Paragon Remodeling, Inc is a Residential Home Remodeling Company
located in Northern Virginia which specializes in replacement windows,
siding, custom built decks and patios etc. Paragon Remodeling is specialized in Virginia kitchen remodeling and Virginia kitchen remodeling.
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Types and Safety Tips in Power Washers

The many types of power washers today make it increasingly specialized in functions. It can be bought at any appliance store, or reserved online. Power washers have different surfaces. They may come in metal, painted surface, concrete and many more. These kinds of power washers can eliminate all kinds of stains and dirt oil. Even the toughest stains can be eliminated. In whatever surface it may be, power washers can eliminate the stains. It can also bring the surface’s original luster back.

People find power washers the best thing to use because they are naturally environment friendly. They use power washers because they do not need to exert full effort in cleaning and cleaning is done in a faster way. These power washers are environment friendly because it produces no pollution. Not even a gas fume can be produced from these machines.

These power washers come in different types. It can be an electric power washer, gas or industrial.

These types of power washers vary in pressure ranges. These power washers are very reliable equipment for removing stains and dirt. You can be sure that your money is very worthy of buying power washers because these machines are made of high quality materials. They are made of very durable materials. They are very strong even at the most busy situation, they do not back out. They are also easy to maintain machines. Each part of power washers are available in all stores that are present anywhere.

The ability of power washers to clean effectively is measured through the PSI (or the Pounds per Square Inch). This PSI can be measured by counting the gallons of the per minute water flow. The PSI decides how strong the power that is needed for cleaning a certain surface. The more is the ability of power washers to clean derbies and fight stains if it has greater PSI.

Remember that there is actually no perfect PSI. You just have to choose the exact PSI best suited for your type of cleaning work. Do not choose an excessive PSI because it may damage the surface that it is cleaning. Make some research on which PSI will fit your work.

Power washers also involve some risks. So before you buy and use one, follow the safety measures printed on the manuals. Always try to avoid causing injuries or accidents.

Here are some general guidelines to follow. Do not point the power washers to yourself or to anyone else while you are using them. Do not use sprays in moving or pushing object that are in the washer. If you have gasoline powered washers, do not use them in an enclosed space. Rather, use them in an open field.

The operator should constantly check the status of the circuit breaker and outlet if they are in proper condition and if it is still working before the pressure washer can be used. The outlet should be plugged properly to the ground receptacle.

For extension cord, choose the heavy duty ones. It is good if the cord is water resistant. It is safer to use even when wet accidentally. Keep the power cord and extension cord always away from the flow washer. The operator must wear rubber soled shoes when using the power washer. Rubber soles does not conduct electricity. There should be grounding for both the extension cord and the power cord to further prevent electrocution.

Read the owner’s manual and follow instruction in a directive way. Power washers should not be operated or even be at reach of children.

About the Author: For more information on Power Washers and Safety and Power Washersplease visit our website.
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Flooding – Is Your Home at Risk?

If you live in a high risk area for flooding, you need to be aware of the following precautions and home maintenance tips to better prepare yourself in the event of a flood. The first step, however, is to determine if your home is indeed at risk.

Different seasons bring different types of flooding possibilities. In the winter with the melting snow and hard, frozen ground, snow floods are common. Warmer months experiencing torrential rains are susceptible to flash floods. The collapse of dams or levees and tropical storms can present an unmanageable amount of water in a short time, and result in flooding. Determine whether any of these types of flooding could affect your home.

FEMA, or the Federal Emergency Management Agency, establish ratings for flood zones based on local water flow, storm tides, rainfall, and land surveys. Find out whether you live in a low, moderate or high risk area for flooding. If your home is situated in a floodplain, you are required to have flood insurance.

Find out what the town planners have done to reduce the effects of flooding in your area. These actions should be mentioned when you are establishing a premium rate with the flood insurance company.

Home Maintenance:

If you live in a flood zone, install anti-flood barriers in new housing and consider adding these to existing homes. They may not totally prevent water from entering the basement, but may slow seepage considerably.

Keep all nearby drains clean and free of any debris that may cause a back flow of water.

Clean your home's gutters to remove build-up that may clog and force rainfall to enter at the roof line.

Plug the drains in the sinks, bathtubs and sewer traps to prevent water from backing up. Unhook the washer, dryer and dishwasher and block the outlets.

Silicone sealant can be used to seal around doors and windows to prevent water from making it's way through small openings. Seal any cracks in basement walls and foundations.

You may want to consider relocating your electrical panel to the attic where it is less likely to be damaged by floodwater.

Necessary Steps:

Assemble a survival kit to include battery-powered flashlights, radio, extra batteries, first aid supplies, medications, rain gear, warm clothes, sleeping bags, enough canned food and water for several days, utensils, and personal items.

Prepare an evacuation plan and rehearse it with the family. Understand and be aware of the flood warning signs, local weather conditions and warnings. If an evacuation looks imminent, prepare a bag with a few changes of clothes and any necessary medications that you can grab at a moments notice. Keep your pet cages handy with extra food in case family pets also need transporting.

Make sure you have flood insurance. Most normal home owner's insurance policies do not include reimbursement for flood damage.

Keep important documents in an easily accessible, waterproof container. An inventory of your documents including a photograph of each, stored on a CD is worth the extra effort.


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About the Author: View the many Washington D.C. homes for sale at LynnBulmer.com. Let Lynn be your guide to Cleveland Park real estate.
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How You Can Fix Leaks In Basement Walls

People who own a house with a basement are lucky to be given additional space with which they can utilize. People can use basements as an spare bedroom, playroom, office, or a game room. Unfortunately some individuals are not using these useful rooms because they have leaks.

Leaks in your basement can be there for numerous reasons. All of the water that is getting pinned inside the walls of this room is producing more concerns for you and is producing a possible health hazard. Before you revert your dusty old basement you first have to repair the leaks.

Basement waterproofing can be tricky and some homeowners feel they shoud utilise a professional basement waterproofing company to get the problem fixed. But if you are up to the job you have the capacity of getting the job done all on your own.

Keep in mind that waterproofing your basement can be an extensive job and demands time and energy from you. In the end though you will repair the leaks, do away with the chance of mold and fungus developing, and will instantly be able to use that extra space to extend on your home.

You will want to ensure that the ground that is next to your foundation is sloping in the opposite direction of the foundation. If it is not than you can bring dirt next to the foundation making a slope against the foundation that is 2” per foot. The top of the dirt must be six inches under the plate.

The rain gutters placed on the top of your roof top may unload all of the water that they gather on top of the ground that is right next to your foundations. This is not good because it can make serious problems. Wash out your gutters and put them in such a way that they will drop off the water at least 5 feet or more away from the foundation.

In order to waterproof your basement you need to acquire the necessary basement waterproofing materials. Drylok and Xypex are some of the best materials to use to waterproof your basement walls. Drylok is a waterproofer that will flourish on the walls as it dries. This assists it to bind to the wall and meld in. Xypex will bind with the wall and is very much like cement. It utilizes moisture to create a water proof crystalline structure. This also assists to fix cracks and holes in the wall.


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About the Author: In order to repair leaks you need to be able to find the right Basement Waterproofing Company that sell the proper Basement Waterproofing Supplies. Basement Waterproofing can be done on your own or with a professional.
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Importance of planning in home remodeling

The process of home remodeling is one of the most tedious tasks; searching the home remodeling company, the permit procedure, negotiating with the home remodeling company and then comfortably starting remodeling takes a considerable length of time. Home remodeling is one among the few that should be completely organized with loads of creativity. The unorganized home remodeling process can lead to double work that will just shoot up your remodeling expenses. Hence it is very important that you select the remodeling company that is well organized in order to keep the investment in track with what you have decided. Starting the home remodeling plans is one of the relieving experiences you will face.

Home remodeling planning should be done, it is important that you select the right time, most of the people get their home remodeled in the beginning of the year, so it is important that you decide the period properly. What many people do not understand is that the number of the decisions that are required just to get the permit ready, the construction itself takes in much lesser time. The development of a custom floor plan is the start and the experience of working with a professional designer is very good experience, and once the number of decisions are taken up; the options which come across give just the best feeling. Choosing the bedroom furniture, the sofa sets, dining facility, kitchen equipments, electrical and plumbing fixtures, cabinetry, fireplaces, windows and skylights, etc. are time consuming but choosing them is really good as remodeling the home in itself boosts up energy in us.

Planning ahead facilitates a number of advantages like the research that is done in the initial level as this research will help you in the stores when you are looking out of the discount furniture, etc. This will provide you with enough time to make the selection between the different options, discuss it with your close relatives and friends. You will surely remember this experience for years together as you are going to survive with the same remodeled for years.

Sometimes it is important to remember the fact that in certain cases even the normal three to six months are not enough, an accident or certain illness to either of the parties will cause a considerable delay in the remodeling process. Any delay will cause a massive difference to the planned design as the result which arises out of too much of delay will not be much satisfactory. Hence it is important that you select the company that is not known for its delay in the project. Planning ahead about the remodeling project allows you to have better bargaining options and securing the benefits of the very good outcomes along with reasonable amount of expenses. Finally as far as the payment criteria is to be considered it is important that you decide as to how are you going to arrange for the money is it going to be on cash payment at amount or are going to pay it in installments or will you take the loan from the bank and pay to the bank in installments.


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About the Author: Sharonsamraj is a Copywriter for Home Furniture. He written many articles in various topics such as Wood Furniture, Home furniture,Bedroom Furniture. For Further details on Discount Furniture please visit http://www.istockfurniture.com/
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Beautifying the look of the place with Floor Tiles

Floor tiles have come up in a great way nowadays. The decorative work of these tiles was invented in the near east and it became extremely popular.

Also in the Islamic period the tile décor were perfected and used widely.
These are now set up in mortar and have sand, cement and latex in them.

These tiles come in various materials and shapes, as per the requirement of the comfort and the look of the place. The natural Stone floor tiles are very pretty but because they are made up of natural elements, hence, vesting an environmental hue to ones dwelling.

If someone intends to use granite floor tiles then he or she should certainly know that these tiles have sawed off edges and posses a uniform thickness. The thickness of the floor tiles can be adjusted accordingly by using the right amount of mortar in them. If someone wants slippery tiles they can go for tiles made of travertine, marble and granite, however, for solid surfaces ceramic tiles can be used in small patterns.

One must keep in mind that one should use hard floor tiles on floors that are hosts to lots of prodding foots at any point of time. Moreover, in these cases one must forgo the usage of tiles that are made up limestone.

Also the stone tiles are very delicate and is prone to breakage.
Natural Stone are beautiful but can be stained easily; therefore, an extra amount of care has to be taken for them. However this is certainly not a hint that they are prone to getting spoiled owning to their unusual and complex patterns.

Nowadays the floor tiles seller also emphasize on the variety of these tiles in terms of their patterns and colours ranging from one batch to another one having been created with the same materials and possessing an equal level of quality.

Earlier people had to go to the stores to choose their favourite floor tiles for their homes or offices. But now acquiring these tiles are quite convenient as they are available online in all their forms on lots of websites.

About the Author: Jason Colling is a renowned writer, who has written articles on various interior designing techniques related to floor decor. His articles focus on various uses of porcelain tiles , floor tiles , natural stones and adhesives.
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Ways of Installing Marble Tiles

By yang xp
With some simple considerations, unacceptable marble tile installations can be avoided when certain types of marble tiles are selected. Selecting the right bonding material can be simple with the tile distributor or adhesive manufacturer and tile manufacturer. There are guidelines that will help you to eliminate installation problems and expensive errors.

Installing Natural Marble - they are cut to the narrowest thickness that can be polished, handled, shipped, package, and installed without breakage, when marble tiles are produced. In this manner of cutting the marbles it produced the most tiles from a block of marbles, which make the costs lower and more available. To produce a satisfactory fitting or installation, these thin cut can rely on proper bonding materials.

Natural Marbles Tiles bonding red, green, and black colored - These are the marble tiles that include definite materials that blister, soften, curl or swell when it come in contact with moisture or water. All black marbles, some green and certain red marbles are usually water sensitive. If the tile is water and moisture sensitive, it is always best to ask the marble manufacturer in order for you to know, so you can avoid water spill with your marble tiles. Of course, if you use marble tile with your flooring, you want to see to it that you are taking care of it to prevent it from damage.

Bonding Fiber Reinforced Resin-Backed Marble Tile - Cut of tile that very thin but are unbreakable with fiber mesh and resin coating at 1/32" - 1/16" thickness. These resin-back coated tiles have a very nonporous and inert bond surface that requires the extra bond strength of custom's 100% Solids Epoxy Mortar in order to install it properly.

Avoiding Discolored Marble Tile and Tile Edges - When cutting the marble, it requires an installation that is more complicated or involves a decorative design pattern. To make the custom cuts in the tiles, use the cutting saw. It requires a liquid to cool the cutting blade. Normally this liquid is water. The cooling water or liquid will build up fine grindings or particles with the cutting saw to be used. Staining of certain tile pieces or tile edges can occur, when the marble tiles are being cut by a single saw. When different colored tiles are to be cut on a single saw, this can be avoided by cleaning the saw to assure that dirt and debris were removed.

As soon as the marble tiles were installed properly at your flooring, you will be amazed with the beauty that these tiles can bring your home. Since these tiles can add up to the beauty of your home, it is just right to maintain it and take good are of it. Keep it away from acidic substances and water spill to avoid stains.



About the author:
yuxiang granite tile,mosaic tile and marble tile
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Build a Redwood Fence In Five Easy Steps

By Lori Smith
Fences are built for many reasons. Fences keep children or animals in the yard and define property lines. Fences also provide security and privacy, and complement other backyard amenities, like pools, spas and decks.

Redwood is often the material of choice for fences because it is durable, looks good, and resists warping, splitting and checking.

Many homeowners save money by building their own redwood fence. Fence building isn't difficult.

1. Designing the fence: Most redwood fences are variations of a simple post, rail and board design. The post and rail support structure is made of standard dimension lumber, while fence boards of different shapes and sizes give a fence its individual style.

2. Choosing quality materials: Most redwood fences are built with knot-textured "garden grades" of redwood. These rugged grades are economical and provide the best combination of performance and value. It is important to use noncorrosive nails and hardware to avoid unsightly stains.

3. Setting redwood posts: Setting posts is the most critical part of the job. They must be straight and evenly spaced, which requires patience and lots of measuring. Construction Heart grade redwood is the right choice for fence posts because it resists decay and insects.

4. Attaching redwood railings: Two or three horizontal rails run between the posts, depending on the fence height. Upper rails should rest on the tops of the posts for support. Bottom rails can be toe nailed into place, but the preferred method is to place a block underneath the joint for extra support. Use metal hardware, such as "L" brackets, to secure rails to posts.

5. Nailing redwood fence boards: Nailing the fence boards in place is the easiest and most satisfying part of building a fence. Near the ends of the board, predrill holes before nailing to avoid splitting. For fence boards four inches wide or less, use one nail per bearing. For wider fence boards, use two nails.
About the author:
Ron Roberts is a writer of TrueBlueContractors.com allows contractors to spend less money , give fewer estimates, and get more work.
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Generators Make Life so Nice, and Not Just for the Other Guy

By MJ Marks
Generators come in all shapes and sizes and serve many different functions. Making electricity from a variety of energy sources with a generator is a wonderful thing. The power goes out, no problem, just fire up the generator and power is at the ready. Generators can produce electricity by converting mechanical energy from power sources like steam, water, wind, diesel, or gas. When the energy from these sources undergoes electromagnetic induction they turn into electrical energy using a motor.

The motor is what transforms the mechanical energy from those varying sources, all resulting in electricity. Basically, a conductor passes across a magnetic field producing voltage, that can then be used for powering your normal electric goodies.

There are many types of generators, but a typical type of generator is one that uses common gasoline. This type of generator uses a combustion engine, like those found in other small engine devices like lawn mowers.

It is possible to hook up large fuel supply tanks for extended use as needed. Generators are normally turned on by the standard pull cord method, or by a key and electronic ignition switch. Once on, the generator starts to do its job. They have regular electric receptacles for plugging in other devices: electronics, tools or small appliances.

Having a generator as a back-up power solution during times when the power goes out is a real convenience. It can even be an essential for some users who need certain medical devices to be powered without interruption. The high-end commercial type generators can be connected to a house for automatic backup. These units are the cream of the crop. They can be hard-wired right into your house. Not cheap, but certainly something to consider if you like the idea of never being without power and the conveniences that it provides.

Generators even come in portable configurations allowing power on the go. Think big RV. If you’ve ever been a lowly tent camper next to someone with a generator running you can understand what it is like to not only have to listen to a generator running, but also know what it is like to be a little jealous of the RVer enjoying the benefits that generators give. If you are like me, you may enjoy camping only if you are deprived of all sorts of creature comforts. You may even sort of disparage those who are able to enjoy all the comforts of home while they are out “roughing it.” You know what I mean. Air conditioning, microwaves, heaters, a tv, the cd player, hair dryers and electric shavers. I mean the list goes on and on.

There is a generator for virtually every possible need. Whether you need something portable that can be carried, something on wheels, or something that is fixed and wired in, you are sure to be able to find just what you need. Whether you need propane, gasoline, natural gas, or even a diesel generator, all are available. There are generators for home, work, commercial or recreational use - with a little looking around you will find the perfect one for you!
About the author:
MJ owns Blue Summit Articles and is a freelance writer for Click Shops, Inc., which offers a great selection of generators at www.generators.us.com.
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Furniture fixes

Furniture fixes
The best way to give your home an instant facelift without spending a cent is by revamping and rearranging your furniture. Make what you have work for you. A colour scheme change can be made with very little expense by adding some throw cushions to the couch, or splashing some paint onto the walls, of course, but making the most of what you have saves cash and allows you to showcase what you have to its best advantage.

Also, you won’t have to risk increasing your home insurance premiums, or your home contents insurance, if you use what you have and don’t spend a fortune on brand new furniture.

Start by taking a long hard look at your home, and ask yourself which items of furniture look good, and which ones do not. If there are any items which you would prefer to toss out, then see if you can’t swap them with a friend or charity shop for something more suitable to the space.

If you have a large home or apartment you will find it fairly easy to rearrange the furniture, but if you have a small home you might have difficulty fitting in all the items you want or need in a room.

In the case of a larger home, make one of your favourite items of furniture or a bold accessory the centre of attention. In a smaller home, try this too, but smaller home call for a minimalistic look, to create the illusion of a larger space.

Take advantage of every item which you cherish, and make space for new items by tossing out, donating to charity, or passing to friend, all the old items and accessories you no longer care for. Remember to get a home insurance policy too, these policies are well worth the tiny cost every month.

Please note that Churchill does not control and cannot guarantee the relevance, timeliness, or accuracy of the article above.

About the Author: Get your current or new home and home contents covered with home insurance from Churchill. Visit www.churchill.com today for your low, low quote.
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A Bit of Country in the Home

A Bit of Country in the Home
For many people, bringing a country style into the home is a decorating theme that evokes comfortable, rustic feelings.

With there being so many ways to decorate each room in your house, plenty of country options are available as one way to model your home - and there are window shutters available that will perfectly match that style.

Country decorating is meant to invoke feelings of a warm, cosy home, so many of the colours used to paint walls should be earth tones. Images of wrought iron used in picture frames and bed frames are also a great way to decorate a room with country flair.

When it comes to a rustic charm, using natural colours and textures embodies the culture of simple, country living. Country home decorating can be easily achieved when you choose to decorate using ceramic bowls, pottery and wooden accents on wall hangings and attachments.

Simplicity is also key when it comes to decorating the ultimate country style, meaning taking the time to clear clutter and select a few centrepieces in the room to focus on. For example, this can mean focusing the room off of one piece of furniture, including a rustic table, printed couch or stylish rug.

What's more, you can bring in a bit more of the country with baskets stuffed with fresh flowers or farmers markets vegetables, and be sure to embrace country crafts with do-it-yourself decorations. It's all the better if you boast wooden floors in the room as well. Wooden floors, panels and ceilings are an ultimate image of country decor, bringing back the feeling of a log cabin or natural home.

Flowers are also an integral part in country decorating, and can also be promoted in formal window dressings including curtains and drapes. The country cottage look can inspire floral prints that can be used in all rooms. Flower prints, lace curtains and detailing on blind rails can all add subtle country charm to a home. The country look is often thought of as pretty, and there are plenty of options to add the look to your home.

As you can see, by choosing the right decor, your home can have the country look and charm that you're looking for. Window shutters can be a key part of those decorations, as they provide an aesthetic addition to the home through different styles that will fit in with a country style.

About the Author: Paul McIndoe writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.
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Trendy Kitchen Redesign Ideas for Your Home

By Anne Harvester


No other room defines your home quite like the kitchen. If you are trying to put together a completely unique look for your home, then the kitchen is the best place to start so make sure you have a bunch of ideas ready to go. Remodeling the kitchen is not a tough job nor is it rocket science. It simply needs a little bit of hard work combined with some imagination.

Remodeling kitchen could be a difficult and strenuous task for someone lacks a creative mind and imagination. Take a walk through your local hardware store for a quick inventory of items you can use and need. From items such as a soapstone counter or soapstone stoves to a stainless steel refrigerator, the choices are almost limitless. Here are a few trends in the design world for kitchens:

Color is in - You won't find too many all-white kitchens these days. Instead, people are decorating their kitchens with a variety of colors. Brown in particular is the hottest color right now, but grays, soapstone, blues and greens are also quite fashionable. Refacing your cabinets in a colored laminate is the most common way to incorporate this color trend. Vivid mosaic backsplashes, soapstone stoves, soapstone slabs, soapstone blocks and cork flooring are also drawing rave attention from kitchen designers.

Dramatic impact - Unique and strategically placed windows, multi-leveled center islands of soapstone slabs, open kitchen spaces with cozy adjacent sitting nooks, a soapstone stove, built-in seating areas, and environmentally-friendly kitchens are all the rage right now in kitchen trends.

Pantries should be seen - That formerly kitchen eyesore is now becoming a focal feature. If you need lots of storage space, think about a walk-in pantry. If space is something you don't have a lot of, a built-in pantry may be a better option for your needs.

Sophisticated touches - Beamed ceilings, soapstone decorative items, impact-adding molding, dramatic lighting, soapstone slabs, soapstone blocks and porcelain backsplashes can add a major wow to your kitchen.

Decorate around a central theme - Keep things realistic by designing your kitchen around a feature authentic to your home’s age such as building upon an old soapstone stove. More and more people are bringing back the centuries-old trend that revolves around the energy-enhancing arrangement of its furniture pieces.

Every kitchen, big and small, has unique characteristics. It's true that every kitchen requires some changes here and there, like that soapstone counter you've always dreamed about. Yours is no different. These changes cannot be started until you know the actual style and trend which will be useful and functional to make this room the most elegant kitchen it could be.
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Electrical Overloading

Electrical Overloading
With all these appliances plugged in, you need to ensure that your electricity supply points and equipment are safe on a regular basis. It only takes one faulty plug to start a fire. You may not be able to see a flame but there could still be a fire risk.

Do not overload your power sockets
Too many plugs drawing power from one socket can cause it to overheat and catch fire. You can easily prevent overloading. Use these helpful tips to ensure you do not overload your plugs.

• Use a bar adaptor on a lead instead of using a block adaptor
• Apply the rule: One adaptor to one socket. Don’t plug an adaptor into another adaptor
• Before you plug your appliance into an adaptor, check the adaptor rating
The total current used by the appliance(s) plugged into the adaptor should be less than 13amps or 3,000 watts of power. For example, you can plug two 2amp appliances and one 5amp appliance into an adaptor. However, don’t plug more than one appliance that uses a lot of power into the same adaptor i.e. don’t plug your kettle, hi-fi and TV into the same adaptor as they all use a lot of current.

How to prevent electrical fires
Here are some useful tips to ensure your home is an electrical safe zone.

Warning signs
Loose wiring is a potential fire hazard. The following are signs of loose wiring:

• Hot plugs and sockets
• Fuses that blow for no obvious reason
• Flickering lights
• Scorch marks on sockets or plugs

Incorrectly wired plugs
A plug that is wired incorrectly could have coloured wires sticking out that can be pulled loose or allow water or debris to get inside. If you spot a loose plug in your home, change it or tighten it up.

Frayed power leads
All outer coverings of power leads should be intact. Do not expose any cables when you are fixing plugs.

Repaired power leads
If your power lead is split or frayed, do not tape over it.
Never use a power lead that has been taped over.
Avoid joining cables with tape. Water could get in or the tape could peel off.
When you are dealing with electricity, it is always better to be safe than sorry so toss the frayed lead out and by a new one.

Cable safety
Do not leave power leads where they can be tripped over.
Do not leave it near water or close to the cooker top.
Keep it away from children – they could pull or even chew on it.

Check your light bulbs
Use energy efficient light bulbs if possible. Always check that the light bulb wattage is correct for your lamp.

Avoid water
Keep plugs and cables away from water.
Keep water and liquids away from electrical appliances i.e. do not put a vase on top of the TV even if it does look good there. Check your kettle for leaks and never fill it up when it is plugged in.

Toaster safety
Put your toaster somewhere there are no curtains as they could blow onto the toaster elements and catch alight. A clean toaster is also less of a fire hazard.

Switch off
When you are not using your appliances, switch them off. Appliances like your stereo, kettle, radio and computer are plugged into live electrical sockets with enough power to start a fire instantly. So before you go to bed, turn them off. It will not only help prevent a fire but also help save the environment by reducing energy consumption.
For more information on home fire safety visit www.firekills.gov.uk.

Home insurance
The first thing you should do if you discover a fire in your home is to call the emergency services and evacuate everyone in the house to a safe place. It is wise to have home insurance cover to ensure that if your home suffers damage or loss by fire, you are covered. Some home insurance companies even include alternative accommodation while your home is being repaired. Most home insurance companies offer quick and easy home insurance quotes online. For a home insurance quote and more information about the types of home insurance available from Churchill, visit www.churchill.com/home/home_getquote.htm

About the Author: Get your home and contents covered and protected from fire with home insurance from Churchill. Visit http://www.churchill.com for a cheap quote today.
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Benefits of Wood Flooring

Benefits of Wood Flooring
The benefits of wood flooring are as follows: 1.They retain their beauty and value for a longer period of time. 2.Like any other natural element they will gain charm with time. 3.They do not require much maintenance. 4.Wood flooring comes in vast range of style, quality, grains and stains. Regardless of your taste and preference you can easily find out something that exactly suits your desire. 5.With the advent of Internet you can obtain quality wood floors at high discount rates at the convenience and comfort of your home. 6.Online retailers offer free samples, just view them and choose the one that well suits your taste and simply place the order. All the orders are sent at the destination specified by the customers. 7.A recent survey conducted by the American Estate Agent Association reveals that 90% of the houses with wood flooring sell more quickly and at a higher price than their counterparts. 8.The cellular structure of the wood traps air and provide unique insulating properties. 9.Solid wood does not collect dust unlike other flooring materials. Whether you are buying online or offline ask for samples to see whether they well coordinate with your wall and furnishings or not. Short list the wood floorings that match the décor of your room and then listen to your instincts. At last you will find the wood floor that is best for your room.

About the Author: My name is Curt Nash. I’ve been into wood flooring profession since 10 years. For further information on Wood Flooring you can visit www.nagleflooring.co.uk
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Are Metal Roofs The Right Choice For Your Home?

metal roofs are rapidly gaining popularity and although they have many advantages, they cost almost 30% more than regular asphalt or shingle roofs. Whether metal roofs are the right choice for your home or not depends on various situations and conditions. To better understand this point, it is important to learn about various features of metal roofs so that you can determine how beneficial these features are for your home.
1. Energy Efficient
One of the most commonly miss-understood features of metal roofs is its energy efficiency. Metal roofs due to their reflective nature reflect most of the sun’s UV rays and thus help to keep your home cool during hot days of the summer. Therefore, it is important to note that homes located in hot regions benefit most from this thermal efficiency as it can significantly lower electricity bill by allowing homeowners not to run their air conditioning at all times. Homeowners living in cooler regions may not benefit as much from this thermal efficiency
Metal roofs do not have any R-Value (According to Wikipedia: "R-Value is a measure of thermal resistance used in the building and construction industry. The bigger the number, the better the building insulation's effectiveness"). Another words R-Value is the indication of how much insulation is provided. A good insulation is important as it can keep your home warm during cold winter days. Even though metal roofs do not have any R-Value, insulation can be added to metal roofs so that your home does not loose heat during winter times.
2. Light Weight
One of the advantages of using metal roofs is that most forms of metal roofs are light weight, and therefore easily transportable
3. Fire Resistant
Most insurance companies are happy to hear homeowners use metal roofs (in some cases insurance companies may also lower your premium) due to the fact that metal roofs are known to be fire retardant.
4. Withstand Strong Winds
Metal roofs may also be ideal in areas where there are strong winds or tropical storms. If properly installed metal roofs can withstand the high winds of tropical storms and are not blown away.
5. Installed Over Existing Roof
Another advantage of using metal roofs is that it can be installed on top of the existing roof, and thus it is labor efficient. However, it is important to note that metal roofs need to be painted and polished which may out due some of the said cost savings.
6. Durability
Metal roofs are known for their durability. Where most roofs can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years, metal roof are said to last any where from 50 to 100 years if proper maintenance is carried out. Metal roofs unlike other types of roofs do not rot and are not impacted by termites.
Based on your climate conditions and how long you intend to live in your home, you may benefit from using metal roofs. Before deciding on any type of roofing system, it is wise to check with your local municipality, insurance companies, and tax office to learn about their recommendations as well as to find out if there is any incentives, rebates, grants, etc for using any particular roofing systems. Some municipalities and insurance companies may lower your taxes and insurance should you decide to use metal roofs.
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