London Builders - How To Increase Your House Value

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

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

Added Value to property %

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

Extension - adding floor space 12%

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

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

Alterations - extra bedroom without adding floor space 6%

Loft Conversion - extra bedroom and en-suite 21%

Adding an extra bathroom or en-suite 5%

Off-street parking space 6.5%

Garage - detached or integrated 7-14%

Double glazing 5%

Central heating value added 7%

Making the most of your home

Kitchens

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

Bathrooms

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

Downstairs

WC

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

Reception Rooms

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

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

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

Replacement or Retrofit Style Frame? Which is Right for You?

Last week I told you how to measure for your vinyl replacement windows when replacing aluminum windows. Now that you're ready to order your new vinyl replacement windows, we need to talk about the different frame style options available. In most of the country your choices are limited to either new construction or replacement frames. New construction frames come with a nailing fin to attach the frame to the studs during the construction of the new home. The replacement frame is basically the new construction frame minus the nailing fin.

But in the west, where stucco homes are common, manufacturers came up with a third type of frame called a retrofit frame. The retrofit frame has a fin about 2 inches wide, located flush with the outside face of the window. This is the best choice when replacing old windows, but not all jobs will accomodate a retrofit frame application. So let's discuss how to determine which frame is going to work for you.

If you have a stucco exterior, retrofit is the way to go. You install the new window from the outside, and the flush fin covers the old aluminum frame that you are going to leave in place. Then you screw the new window in using deck screws through the side channels as well as the top header. We will get into more detail on the actual installation in a future article. If you have a stucco exterior, but there is a wood trim around the opening of the window where the flush fin would normally go, you can still use the retrofit style frame. You would need to remove the wood surrounding the opening, install the retrofit window, then purchase and install new wood trim. The old trim will no longer fit since the replacement window frame dimensions will be several inches larger in width and height than the old window frame. Another option is to install the retrofit fin on top of the wood trim. You can do this as long as the depth from the face of the wood trim to the point in the house of the innermost portion of the old aluminum frame is less than 3 inches deep.

The reason is because a good quality retrofit window will have a 3 inch frame depth from the back of the flush fin to the innermost part of the frame. That innermost part needs to be further into the house than the innermost part of the aluminum frame so that the aluminum frame will be hidden after we apply the inside trim. What if you have brick around the window openings? Or siding? Then what? Well, if you can install the window against the face of the brick or siding and still have the innermost part of the vinyl frame be further into the home than the old frame, then you can use the retrofit style frame. If not, then you have to use the replacement style frame,then use trim to finish the outside.

The main point to remember when determining whether or not to use a retrofit frame or a standard replacement frame is that in order to use the retrofit frame there needs to be less than 3 inches from the outside point where the flush fin will rest to the inside point in the room where the old frame ends. If it's less than 3 inches, go with the retro, more than 3 inches, use the replacement frame and add trim to the outside in lieu of the flush fin.

Next week I am going to explain the process of removing the old aluminum window...

John Rocco has been installing replacement windows since 1978. To learn more, visit How To Install Windows

Bathroom Faucets - Facts To Consider Before Shopping

Before selecting a bathroom faucets you will need to know a few facts. If you are simply replacing a faucet and keeping the sink, one of your decisions is already made. But, if you are replacing both sink and faucet you will first need to decide which is the most important to you, the sink or the bathroom faucet.

Let me back up a little and explain. Bathroom faucets come in single hole, centerset, and widespread assemblies. If you are keeping your existing sink, then you need to match up your faucet to fit the sink you already have, so that makes for fewer choices. If, however, you are starting fresh and replacing both bathroom faucet and sink, the sky is the limit, but you need to decide if the look and function of the faucet outweighs your choice in sinks.

Bathroom Faucet Mechanics

It is good to know some of the inner-working of bathroom faucets before you start your selection.

*F81 Compression faucets use washers and compression to shut off the flow of water. These faucets have been around for a long time, most of us have used them, and they are still available and usually among the least expensive models. Compression faucets have both a hot and cold handle to control water pressure and temperature and require tightening the handles to close off the flow of water. Inside the handles is an assembly with a washer on the end of a screw. When you tighten the handle of the bathroom faucet it creates pressure on the washer over an opening and stops the flow of water. These faucets have a long history of needing periodic maintenance, usually replacing washers.

* Ball faucets which are common in both kitchen and bath, have a single handle to control the flow of water, and the temperature as well. This type of faucet was the first to be washerless. Unfortunately this is a complicated mechanism and it is also the most subject to leaking.

* Cartridge faucets may be the best bathroom faucet option for those who prefer separate handles for cold and hot water,and want less maintenance issues, although they are available in a single handle version as well. Unlike compression faucets cartridge faucets don't require the extra pressure in order to stop the flow of water. They have a moveable stem cartridge that controls the flow of water. They are more reliable than compression faucets, and require less frequent repair.

* Disc faucets have a single lever that controls the flow of water as well as temperature. Disc faucets are the newest type of faucet, seldom require repair and are a higher quality faucet.

Bathroom Faucet Installation Style

*Centerset faucets have all the faucet components assembled on a base. Both the spout and the handles are mounted on a base so the whole bathroom faucet assembly is one unit.

*Widespread faucets feature all the components individually. Handles and spout are all separate pieces which usually mount to the sink and come in different drilling options.

*Single-Hole faucets are another option in a bathroom faucet. This unit is just what it says. It requires a single hole, and the spout and a lever for controlling water flow and temperature comes as a single unit.

*Wall-Mounted faucets This is a whole subject in and of itself, but I am just mentioning it here in case you have your heart set on a vessel sink and this type of a faucet assembly.

Wall-mounted bathroom faucets are only an option if you are doing some remodeling or are willing to open up the wall. This is a more complicated choice and should be checked into thoroughly before getting involved.

There is more to know about bathroom faucet selection, and I will cover that in version two of this article.

Discover more information about bathroom faucets, and tips on updating your bathroom vanity.

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/.

Sanding Hardwood Floors

There are certain hardwoods that are vulnerable to weather and climate changes. Some woods contract or shorten when it is hot. Others expand when there is moisture. When this happens, the floor becomes uneven. If left unchecked, it could ruin the look of the room and even become hazardous enough to cause accidents.

You do not have to take out the planks and replace them. The more practical solution is to sand them. Sanding your floor is a project that needs your dedication and time, whether you do it yourself or hire a contractor for it.

Sanding It All Away

For the initial sanding, you will need to use the coarsest sandpaper- the 20 grit. There is a sanding machine that you can use to make the whole ordeal easier and faster.

For efficiency, you will need to sand the floor at a 45 degree angle to the grain. It may take several rounds before the surface evens. It really depends on the precision of the tongue-and-grove milling of the hardwood.

Another technique is pushing and pulling the sander as it moves. The pressure is strong as it moves forward. You will need to lift the sander at an angle and apply pressure as it moves back. Continue this method until the diagonal scratches are not visible anymore. You must be careful that the traces of the sandpaper are eliminated. The slightest pattern will show after you apply a coating.

The process may take a long time. Be prepared to change the sandpaper form time to time. Stock up on 20, 36, 60, 80, and 100 grit sandpaper. For wood that is coated with aluminum oxide, use a commercially available softening solution before sanding. It may be hard to sand if you do not do this. Sandpaper also contains aluminum oxide so scratching the two surfaces against each other will take more force.

Hardwood Floors provides detailed information on Hardwood Floors, Engineered Hardwood Floors, Solid Hardwood Floors, Long-strip Hardwood Floors and more. Hardwood Floors is affiliated with Install Hardwood Flooring.

Buying a Sunroom Kit

If you love sunshine then you will love a sunroom. A sunroom can give you sunshine most of the year and gives you access to outside while you stay cozy and warm inside. This is very important during long winter months as people can lose vitamin D when they don't get enough sunshine and if you're thinking of installing a sunroom then the easiest way to go is with a kit.

You do have two choices when buying a kit. You can have it installed or install it yourself, but if you're doing it yourself it is better to know for sure what you're doing because this could lead to a great source of heat loss if it's not installed properly. It can also reduce the value of your home. So if you have any doubts it is better to have it instal168Fled by a professional.

Kits for sunrooms come in many shapes and sizes and you have to research really well before you make up your mind. You also have to decide the best location for your sunroom because installing it in the wrong place can cost you money on your utility bills during the winter months. You need to install it in a location where you do not get full sun but enough that will keep sunshine in the winter months and not too much in the summer.

You have to give a lot of consideration to the kits available. Some of them are basic kits that offer aluminum frames and plastic windows and these are not too difficult to put together. You can usually convert this type to a screened in porch during the summer. Then there are more complicated kits that are preassembled before you get it. It is very important to choose the right kits to get the best that the market has to offer and the one that is most suitable to you.

For lots of helpful information on sunrooms and related topics, visit DIY Home Advice Guide at http://www.diyhomeadvice.com

Home Mold Test Kits

Finding the Perfect Kitchen Backsplash

So youve seen a terrific-looking kitchen backsplash in a home and garden magazine and fallen in love. Or your next-door neighbor just got her kitchen remodeled and now you want what shes got. Or maybe youre just tired of the same old, same old and want something new. Whatever the reason, its clear you want a new one. Read on to find out where to find one thatll not only knock your socks off, but keep splatters from reaching your walls and cabinets, as well (oh, and did we mention youre sure to find a kitchen backsplash thatll do it in style, too?).

How about a tin kitchen backsplash that comes in five patterns and 45 different powder-coat colors? Thats what youll find at The American Tin Ceiling Company, among many other home dcor products. This company also makes ceiling panels, switch plates, flat and crown molding, wainscoting and more all from Victorian-style, tin-plated steel.

Kitchen Source offers several choices in the functional and aesthetic kitchen backsplash. Chrome plating, stainless, steel, and stone and ceramic all show off their best characteristics at this online kitchen dcor store.

One comes as an eye-catching part of a universal vent hood/cook top/backsplash package for those looking to go further than installing a backsplash only. Kitchen Source also provides a host of accessories such as rails, shelves, baskets, and more to go with your favorite kitchen backsplash.

Ever think about an engraved kitchen backsplash made of either aluminum or 304-alloy, food-grade stainless steel? This unique style of kitchen backsplash that features three-dimensional ornamentation such as seahorses, cornucopias, roosters, cattails, and more can be found at Spectra Metal.

Wherever you go to for a kitchen backsplash, the choices seem to be endless. Made from all types of materials ceramic, natural stone, metal, glass, even painted or wallpapered a kitchen backsplash can set the decorative pace for any kitchen design theme. But why keep on dreaming? With just a few clicks of the mouse, you can start on that kitchen you covet right now! Get online and find that perfect kitchen backsplash today!

Carlo Morelli writes for OnlineTips.org, where you can read tips on ceramic kitchen tile, how to clean tile grout and other home/garden topics.

One Step Handrail

Buying a Sunroom Kit

If you love sunshine then you will love a sunroom. A sunroom can give you sunshine most of the year and gives you access to outside while you stay cozy and warm inside. This is very important during long winter months as people can lose vitamin D when they don't get enough sunshine and if you're thinking of installing a sunroom then the easiest way to go is with a kit.

You do have two choices when buying a kit. You can have it installed or install it yourself, but if you're doing it yourself it is better to know for sure what you're doing because this could lead to a great source of heat loss if it's not installed properly. It can also reduce the value of your home. So if you have any doubts it is better to have it instal168Fled by a professional.

Kits for sunrooms come in many shapes and sizes and you have to research really well before you make up your mind. You also have to decide the best location for your sunroom because installing it in the wrong place can cost you money on your utility bills during the winter months. You need to install it in a location where you do not get full sun but enough that will keep sunshine in the winter months and not too much in the summer.

You have to give a lot of consideration to the kits available. Some of them are basic kits that offer aluminum frames and plastic windows and these are not too difficult to put together. You can usually convert this type to a screened in porch during the summer. Then there are more complicated kits that are preassembled before you get it. It is very important to choose the right kits to get the best that the market has to offer and the one that is most suitable to you.

For lots of helpful information on sunrooms and related topics, visit DIY Home Advice Guide at http://www.diyhomeadvice.com

Home Mold Test Kits

How To Decide On The Bathroom Accessories You Need

One of the rooms that may mean the most to someone that is buying a house may very be the bathroom. Old realtors that sell and rent houses will tell you this that a bathroom is what can sell or rent the house.

The first thing you will want to do is see what color you want your new bathroom to look like. It is not only smart but will look good if the color of the walls and just the bathroom in general matches with the upgrades you are going to purchase for it. You will want to use light pastel colors so it will make a small bathroom look bigger then it did before you did some customization. If you are going to get some bathroom furniture you will also want that to match as well. You can usually look at bathroom furniture before you buy it so you can see what your new bathroom will look like before hand.

The most important item that I think is in the bathroom and every person should tell you this is the toilet and vanity area. Different people will want different things but these are the main two things that will make a person want a house that is being sold or rented. You might want a small sink and large counter space or small counter space and big sink it is all up to the person that is going to be customizing the bathroom or buying the house. You can remodel any other part of the house but the bathroom should be your first choice as it is usually the smallest room in the house.

The other need to do thing is have the faucets and taps upgraded. You can find whatever you need or want online and you can look and get ideas any time of the day where as if you have a good idea late at night you wont be able to look at home depot because they will be closed now wont they. You will want to get online and start looking that is why getting ideas online is so genius because you can look at any time of the day or night that you want. You can look at stuff for not only your bathroom but your living room, bedrooms, kitchen anything you can think of.

The last part of the first part you may want to think of is the paint or color of the room in which you are making over whether it be the bathroom or just another room you will want to know what color you are going to make before you start buying all your upgrades. You can go online for this too just go online to Google and look up bathroom colors and Google will show you what you want to see as far as your bathroom goes.

Gregg Hall is an author living with his 18 year old son in Jensen Beach, Florida. Find more about bathrooms as well as bathroom accessories at http://www.exclusivebathroomaccessories.com

Octagon Stain Glass Window

Ceiling Fan Light Kits - Most Lighting Kits Come Ready And Easy To Install!

There are many fans that do not come with lights attached and you may be missing out on good lighting for that room. Adding a light fixture to your ceiling fan is easy to do with a ceiling fan light kit. Lighting kits are the best way to add a little light to a dim room.

Where to find a ceiling fan light kit?
You can look on ceiling Fan Company or light company web sites and browse for good bargains on lighting kits. You can also comparison shop to find some good deals. There are many ways and places to find a good lighting kit. Finding good deals on a lighting kit for your fan can make any room look great and leave more money for other home improvements.

Easy to install!
Lighting kits are not very hard to install. Even if you do not consider yourself to be that handy, most lighting kits come ready and easy to install. All ceiling fan light kits will come with easy to read and follow instructions with electrical instructions to help you install your light without any trouble.

Different Styles
Lighting kits can come in many styles as well and you can find the right one for any room with any decor. If you have Victorian style decor and fan, you can find a Victorian style lighting kit. With many lighting kits you may have to wire the lighting yourself. If you have to wire the light your self you will have to make sure the electricity is off to the room so you do not electrocute yourself.

Decorative purposes?
One thing you need to remember is that most fan lights are designed for limited wattage. Basically, you need to make sure that the lighting kit you bought will be sufficient enough for its purpose. There are some kits that are purely for decorative purposes. These lights will not be very appropriate if you are looking to light up a big room.

Spot light fixtures
Stemmed or spot lighting fixtures seem to be the best when getting a kit for lighting up a room, this is because you can turn and point the lights where you want it giving good light in the spot you need it. Another popular light fixture is the bowl light fixture. This fixture has a bowl shaped cover over the bulb, the bowl it's ordinarily either frosted or clear.

Energy Efficient Light kit
If you would like to have an energy efficient light on your fan, you can replace a regular bulb with an energy efficient bulb. These bulbs usually have low wattage but produce light that seems as if it was a high watt bulb. You can also find kits with the energy star logo on it. The energy star logo means that the kit is compliant with the energy star standards.

All in all, if your fan does not have a light attached to it, do not panic. You can go get a lighting kit and install it easily on your own. You can also brag to all your friends that you did it on your own when they tell you how good it looks. When you use energy efficient lighting kits and bulbs you are sure to save money on your electric bill.

To Find More Ceiling Fan Light Kits ratings and reviews for your home visit www.ceiling-fan-wizard.com

Copyright 2008 Ceiling-fan-wizard.com, all rights reserved.

Mark is the editor Ceiling-fan-wizard.com which Provides you wit3DAh the best ceiling fan reviews and ratings. To Find More Ceiling Fan Light Kits ratings and reviews for your home visit http://www.ceiling-fan-wizard.com

Home Mold Test Kits

80587

54317

Deck Railing Plans - Visual Appeal Of Buildings

Materials Make Or Mar Deck railing Plans

The materials that you use for your decking materials, will ultimately decide if your decking plans are usable, doable and above all, useful to you or not. For example if you use a wooden railing where lot of water is being used (in garden, lawns and or near the swimming pool etc.), the wood can disintegrate over a period of time due water splashing on the wood. On the other hand, if you use PVC on a sun bathed patio, the PVC would start cracking after 2 or 3 years and you might have to replace it completely.

Choose Materials For Decking Railing Plans Carefully

Consider the following when you chose material for deck and railings.

The intended purpose of the deck

Frequency of use

Other possible uses of the deck

Surrounding areas and its general use

Safety considerations

Use of water on the deck or the surrounding area

Possibility of skidding or slipping due to use of water

Material used for decks

The material to be used have to be made long lasting so does not repeated expenditures on this count. The manufacturers of various materials have started giving guarantees for their materials for nearly 20 years now. This shows the confidence they have behind the product.

Your railing ideas contribute to the looks of your building by color schemes employed for the railings. Materials as the wood, PVC, aluminum, in combinations are being used for the decking railings.

Use Of Software Previewing Looks Of Railings

Computer software may also be used for looking at your future looks of your building after fitting the various components of deck railings like the posts, balustrades and other parts of the railing such as light fittings and decorative fittings. The color combinations of various components can be seen on the software and complete effect on the building can be seen by the user before the persons eyes and changed before the final decision can be made.

Adam Peters contributes adding articles on deck railing plans to one of his more successful sites;deck porch railings.com. Andrew publishes designs and ideas for different deck railing designs. You can reach further articles and information of Adam about deck railings at his website http://www.deck-porch-railings.com/deck-railings.html

Glue Between Plywood And Concrete

Creating A Bathroom Wall Design

Whether you are making a new bathroom or remodeling the existing one, a good wall design should be one of your top priorities. Deciding what materials to be used for your bathroom walls is not an easy task though. You have lots of materials to choose from and virtually endless possibilities of design and pattern combination. The question now is: where to start?

Start by knowing your options for wall design. Tile has long been a popular choice for bathroom wall. It can be made of marble, limestone, vinyl, ceramic porcelain, granite, terrazzo, terra cotta, slate, stone, and glass among others. Take note of the advantages and disadvantages of each and the different effects each type of tile creates to your bathroom.

For example, terra cotta tile achieves a wall that looks weathered and rustic. It is also said to last for lifetime.

Marble tiles, like any other stone tiles must be sealed and require frequent cleaning. But marbles create a unique look when installed on specific areas of the wall.

Glass tiles are best if used as decorative accent but are often expensive and difficult to install.

Vinyl tiles are affordable compared to stone, porcelain, or ceramic. It is easy to install and easy to replace. However, vinyl tiles create several seams that can breed mold, mildew and bacteria. Aesthetic wise, vinyl tiles are not your best option.

Granite is often used as kitchen countertops but it is also good for bathroom wall accent especially if you want highlight a particular wall. Granite is durable and can last for a very long time.

Terrazzo tiles give unique beauty, elegance and longevity. However, it is quite expensive to use as wall design.

Concrete is another option you can take. The material is cheap but installation is not for the do-it-yourselfers. Concrete can be painted with different colors of your choice to match the mood you want to attain to your design.

Choose one or two materials above as the main wall and blend one or two more. The key is blending the right textures, color tones, and shades. For example, you can use natural stones such as marble, granite and limestone together. Glass with marble and limestone can also work.

There is nothing worst than a bathroom with 4 empty walls. Create a wall design according to your preference.

For bathroom design ideas, visit http://www.bathroomdesignideas101.com

What Is Mold

Quick Step Laminate Flooring

Quick Step Laminate Flooring has changed the face of floors forever. The Quick Step Uniclic ranges are accessible to even the clumsiest laminate flooring installation novice. The real wood looks, textures and tints are so realistic, that the neighbors are likely to think that you had a team of yesteryear's artisans working their fingers to the bone on your new real wood floors. Instead, you will secretly know that it actually was a hubby and wife team toiling for little less than a day with the help of a few boxes of glueless planks.

What gives this line its unique looks? Why is this range proudly displayed in upper-class homes all over the world? Why is it first on many an interior designer's top-rated surfacing list? Apart from the quality inner core and the Uniclic design, the finishes spill the beans about the secrets behind this company's remarkable success.

1. Authentic

Have you ever seen two pieces of wood that are identical? Most likely not. Just as no two humans are exactly alike, every piece of wood comes with a uniquely patterned grain and texture. The Authentic Quick Step Laminate Flooring finish is a surface coating that highlights the motif of the wood pattern. You will see the effect in the grain lines of an oak finish, the matte looks of maple, and the gloss of a cherry laminate floor. This line brings the diversity of nature right into your home.

2. Contour Artisanal

With Contour Artisanal, the manufacturer brings the end-result of a laminate flooring installation even closer to the real thing. Each and every plank gets the recessed edge treatment that emulates hand-scraped floors. You can't get much closer to nature than this!

3. Natural Variation

What sets today's floor surfaces apart from the first efforts, is the variations incorporated into the designs. Previously the same patterns were repeated over and over again, giving a 'plastic' look to the floors. With Quick Step Laminate Flooring's Natural Variation patterning, this problem disappears. Each design comes with 18 or 54 wood grain patterns, combined with a diverse range of natural tints. This mimics the natural appearance of wood almost perfectly.

4. SML 3-Optic

These laminates take convenience and a real wood appearance one step further in the Elegance range. Here the clever home remodeling folks give you the perfect balance of three ready-cut plank lengths (small, medium and large) in each pack. What can be easier than this? By using this line, you are virtually guaranteed that the end result of your project will be as close as possible to the real thing. You can just click and go. No worries about producing the right number of each length.

5. Micro-Perspective 4

With Micro-Perspective 4 the Elegance small planks and the Quadra natural stone range get a further reality dose from the Quick Step Laminate Flooring guys. The finest grooves of the planks and tiles are treated to the same design process as the surface layer. The result is an extremely natural look.

6. Perspective 4

This technology subtly creates a v-groove as you click the planks together. In addition, the beveled sides add to the realistic finish. Again the color and design of the surface is repeated in the grooves, adding to the real wood appearance.

7. Country Surface

With the Country Surface finish, Quick Step floors manages to instill qualities in its planks previously associated with artisans and years of craftsmanship. The master touch is clear in each carefully constructed plank.

8. Living Surface

True to its name, this finish adds a wonderful woodgrain structure to the rustic designs. It is also responsible for the natural finish of the Uniclic ceramic tile ranges.

9. Natural Authentic

Innovation is a Quick Step Laminate Flooring trademark. Thanks to the unique Natural Authentic finish, you not only see real down-to-earth woodgrain in the designs, it also adds a more realistic texture to the planks. This is accomplished without doing away with the durability of the surface. If you were under the impression that laminates are not for you, touch a Natural Authentic finish plank and instantly experience a change of mind...

10. Accessories

The finishes are only as good as your final touches with the quality, decorative accessories and moldings Quick Step 5B4Laminate Flooring has available in abundance. Installation of the moldings is easy with the clip system. The color palette tones in with your interior design. Every conceivable area has been covered, such as moldings for doorways, around basins and baths, and sliding door moldings. Just make sure that you follow the installation instructions to the letter. You don't want to void your warranty by failing to take the suggested steps, This also applies to maintenance of the Quickstep Laminate floor after installation.

Uniclic as found in this range takes on a new life with all the innovative finishes dreamed up by the home improvement experts. You do the nurturing in your family. Now let Quick Step Laminate Flooring do the naturing with their real wood home remodeling and renovation remedy.

Awnings-and-Blinds.com - Don't start your laminate flooring installation before reading the secrets of laminate flooring installation by Rika Susan, and taking a look at pergo american cottage laminate flooring at Awnings-and-Blinds.com. Copyrig10D8ht of this article: 2007 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.

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Tips for Any Home Renovation Project

Any person who has decided to renovate a home no matter how large or how small will tell you that this is not in easy task. Even if you hire a professional contractor to complete the work for you, you will have to live with strange people coming in and out of your house until the project is complete. That is not to mention the expense that it will cost you. It is hardly different even when you do the project yourself. You will find that your place is in complete disarray, with tools, table saws, and suppl5B4ies scattered about until the project is finished. There are ways that you can live with renovating projects, if you follow the following home renovation tips.

Finding the Best Renovating Tips:
The first thing that you will want to do before you begin any home renovation project is to carefully plan ahead. For example, if you will be renovating your kitchen, then you know that there are many things that you will not be able to use until the project is complete. A complete kitchen renovation will put you and your family at a standstill when it comes to cooking and preparing meals in your kitchen. For this reason, plan ahead and know that you will not be able to eat at home for some time. The same is true for any other room in your home. However, if you take the time to plan your project well in advance, you will be for prepared for these inconveniences.

Get Advice from Others:
Other tips that can prove to be very useful during any home renovation project is to talk to others that you know that have been through the process themselves. Your family members and friends who have completed home renovation projects in their own home may be able to offer you useful tips on how to live with your renovation project while it is in the process. If you do not know anyone that has been through this process before, then renovating and home decorating magazines and books are all great sources for tips and ideas about home ren56Dovation projects from start to finish. Don't forget to check the Internet as well. You will find that the Internet is a wonderful source of information that you may not find anywhere else. Your home is very important to you and home renovation projects come at a price, both financially and emotionally. Take the time to plan ahead before completing any home renovation project.

The author Vince Paxton is very interested in ideas associated with delta table saw ts350 and best table saws. You might find out more about his work on table saws reviews and delta table saw ts350 at http://www.insidewoodworking.com .

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List Building - The Chance People Miss in Their Site

There are times that when you visit a site that you are interested with, the owner does not even give you some follow-ups. Of course not all of us want these follow-ups, but if you are really interested with the product or service, then you want updates. And looking at it in the perspective of the business owner, giving your potential clients updates is really beneficial to your business.

Yes, this is one of the chances where the web site owners miss to market their products or service. They get contented with those customers who buy their products without thinking that if they build a list of customers and potential customers, they would be able to increase their sales.

Look, if you have 200 customers who buy and you have established a list of 5000, then even if the 200 customers will buy your product, you have still 4800 potential clients that would add up to your sales. Just make sure that you send your entire list updates and build the trust they need to convince them buying your product.

If you want to succeed in your business online or offline, make sure that you are building your list. These people in your list are the people who will bring you to the joy of success in your undertaking. Do not miss this chance. People visit your site because they are interested. Just give a little push and you will become successful in engaging them with your product through list building.

Do you want to learn more about how I do it? I have just completed my brand new guide to article marketing success, Your Article Writing and Promotion Guide

Download it free here: Secrets of Article Promotion

Sean Mize is a full time internet marketer who has written over 1574 articles in print and 11 published ebooks.

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Brand Building for Success

With organizations seeking to make the most of their budgets and increasingly keen to see a healthy return on all investments, the smart players in businesses of all sizes are raising their game when it comes to the brand experience, making sure online and offline are inline.

The relative low cost and almost infinite reach of digital media has had an effect on branding. All serious companies have websites and email, but many now have a presence elsewhere on the web, in social media pages, a channel on you tube or an island in Second Life.

The one overall benefit of this more sophisticated approach is to strengthen the brands of these companies and enhance the brand experience. And as all business people should know by now, having a strong brand is crucial in a climate that is increasingly competitive. A brand works the same way in one industry to the next, be it consumer or business. Essentially its a means by which an organisation portrays its primary characteristics. Its a symbol that the target market recognizes immediately; it lets them know what to expect.

Of course, your objective is to ensure what they expect is an excellent product that is the best match for their requirements. You need a brand strategy.

Brand Strategy

The first stage is to ensure you fully understand your business, its audiences and their perception of the business. Next identify where the brand is to be positioned in the market and define a brand characteristic that suits. Create a language style for your companys brand; a freelance copywriter can help with this.

Theres a growing list of media to use to present the brand to its audiences. Along with the traditional broadcast, press, web and live events, there are the aforementioned digital options. A mix of as many as is possible will produce the greatest effect. How much exposure within each will be determined by audience fit, relevance to brand characteristics and budget.

Now you know the brand and where it will be represented, it is time to develop key messages, a look, theme and style of language that suits the brand and the media it will be in. Do not discount the many benefits of networking. Networking is a great way to reach people and talk to them about their business; to find out what their brand represents. Brands are built in this way too. When networking, we are not only representing ourselves, but the businesses we work for too. The way we act and look, the things we say and how we say them will all have an effect on the brand.

Regular Evaluation

Once launched, your brand strategy should be evaluated at regular intervals with target market research to ensure you are getting a good return on investment. This process will identify areas of the campaign that can be tweaked in order to improve performance. The option as to whether to create a brand for your business is not yours, the fact is your company already has a brand. The question is how much in control of that brand you want to be? Take no action and you rely on the market to decide where your business fits in; whether your business has something it wants. Its risky; you could be misunderstood and overlooked. Far better to take control yourself, understand your brand and present it to the market in an intelligent, predetermined way.

Richard Jebb is a Freelance Writer who specializes in writing for business. Copywriting, SEO Writing, Marketing literature, Public Relations, Award Entry Submissions and Website Content are just some of the business tools he can make work for you. To contact Richard Jebb email him at richard@wordsthat-work.co.uk.

http://www.wordsthat-work.co.uk

Ceiling Second Coat

Building Added Value Professional Support Functions

For professionals not involved in sales or front line service delivery it can sometimes feel like what you are doing is not adding value or your value is not recognised.

So how can you start to build credibility and really demonstrate the value you deliver to your organisation?

Get Clear On What You Are Here To Do

It might seem like a really obvious question but:

What are you here to do?

Are you only interested in your area of expertise, say Finance, HR or Law?

How interested are you in other areas of the business?

Do you want to train executives and managers on how to be more knowledgeable in your areas of expertise?

What impact do you want to make?

Get Clear On The Benefits You Deliver

One of the key questions others outside of professional support services function might ask is:

How is the business getting benefit from the significant amount of investment in the professional support functions?

Could you list 10 benefits that your function will bring to the business? Within the 10 is there at least one benefit that is so compelling that managers will be eager to work with you?

Find Out What Your Clients Want

When was the last time that you did some structured research to find out what your clients want? Being clear about what they want allows you to respond to their needs and add value.

Create A Vision For Your Function

In his book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, one of the habits Stephen Covey promotes is to Begin With The End In Mind. At a basic level this means what outcomes do you want. Develop and Implement an Action Plan To Take You Forward

Now that you are clear what you are here to do, the difference you want to make, know what your clients want and the outcomes you want to achieve you can start thinking about how to create it. Document it in action plan with clearly defined deliverables.

Review, Refine and Adapt Your Plan

Even with the best of intentions, you are not likely to get it 100% right immediately. Set up a process for getting feedback from the business on the changes you are making and the impact that they are having. Use the feedback process to adjust and revise your plans so that the whole focus is on continuous improvement.

Professional support functions have a tremendous amount to offer businesses but will encounter resistance. Continuing to build the credibility of your function can transform functions from technically great specialists to essential business advisors who make outstanding contributions to business success.

Duncan Brodie is a Leadership Development Coach and Management Trainer at Goals and Achievements http://www.goalsandachievements.co.uk

He specialises in helping accountants and professionals to make the transition from technical expert to manager and leader. As a former Finance Director he has real experience of the challenges faced by accountants and professionals in business.

Fire Damage

New Jersey's Tax Exemption And Abatement Laws

P.L.1991, c.431 with final retroactive amendments effective August 5, 1992 consolidated, into one more flexible law, the various long term tax exemption laws under which municipalities may agree with private entities to undertake redevelopment projects in return for tax exemptions.

P.L.1991, c.441, effective for the first full tax year commencing after its January 18, 1992 enactment, consolidated the various five-year tax abatement and exemption laws into one, more standardized law to govern all tax abatements and exemption regardless of the type of structure.

Long Term Tax Exemption Law

Prior to 1993, which was the first full year of operation governed by the new Long Term Tax Exemption Law, under the provisions of N.J.S.A.40:55C-40, the "Urban Renewal Corporation and Association Law of 1961," commonly known as the Fox-Lance Act, a qualified municipality (a municipality with "areas in need of rehabilitation") could abate from 15 to 20 years the taxes on newly constructed industrial, commercial, cultural, or residential projects of a corporation, with profits in excess of the limited profits returned to the municipality, or from 30 to 35 years for condominium projects. Condominium projects were given 30 to 35 years in order to provide a realistic period for permanent financing. Also, prior to 1993 under the provisions of N.J.S.A.55:16-1 et seq., the "Limited-Dividend Nonprofit Housing Corporation or Association Law," a qualified municipality could abate for up to 50 years the taxes on newly constructed housing. Further, under N.J.S.A.55:14I-1 et seq., a qualified municipality could abate for up to 50 years the taxes on newly constructed senior housing. Lastly, prior to 1993, under the provisions of N.J.S.A.40:55C-77, the "Urban Renewal Nonprofit Corporation Law of 1965," basically the same types of properties and projects as the Fox-Lance Act could be abated for 20 to 25 years with all profits being returned to the municipality. In all cases under these property tax exemption laws in-lieu of tax payments were required.

Commencing in 1993 the provisions of N.J.S.A.40A:20-1 et seq. permitted a qualified municipality to abate the taxes on properties and projects in the same way the pre 1993 law did with the following notable exceptions:

A new, flexible in-lieu of tax formula was established with a phasing-in of payments in-lieu of taxes to occur under both the percent of gross rental formula and the percent of total project cost formula.

The formulas for computing payment in-lieu of taxes for both office projects and housing projects were changed. The minimum annual service charge for office buildings was reduced from 15 to 10 percent of the annual gross revenues of the project or units of the project. Municipalities retained the option of computing the payment in-lieu of taxes at no less than 2 percent of the total project cost or total project units cost. For housing projects the annual service charge was changed from a minimum of 15 percent to a maximum of 15 percent of annual gross revenue of the project or from a minimum 2 percent to a maximum 2 percent of the total project cost or total project unit cost.

The payment in-lieu of tax formulas remains basically unchanged for all other types of industrial, commercial or cultural projects.

Five-Year Exemption and Abatement Law

Prior to 1993, which was the first full year of operation under the new Five-Year Exemption and Abatement Law, there were three types of property to which a qualified municipality (a municipality with "areas in need of rehabilitation") could grant a partial exemption and abatement for a five-year period.

These property types included:

Homeowner improvements (including additions and enlargements) made to one-unit or two-unit residential dwellings that were more than 20 years old. As determined by ordinance the first $4,000, $10,000 or $15,000 of increased value due to improvement on each unit could be exempted from taxation (see N.J.S.A. 54:4-3.72 to 3.79).

Commercial and industrial improvements and construction projects (with less than a 30% increase in building volume) could have the full assessed value of the improvement exempted with payments in-lieu of taxes made at 2%of project cost or 15% of annual gross revenues or an in-lieu of tax payment phased-in. (see N.J.S.A. 54:4-3.94to 3.112).

Multiple dwelling improvements or conversion of other types of structures to multiple dwellings could have up to 30% of the full value of the improvement or conversion alteration exempted. No in-lieu of tax payment was required (see N.J.S.A. 54:4-3.121 to 3.129).

Commencing in 1993 the provisions of N.J.S.A. 40A:21-1 et seq., the "Five-Year Exemption and Abatement Law," which consolidated all provisions of the previous five-year abatement statutes, permitted a qualified municipality to grant partial exemptions and abatements on residential dwellings, non-residential structures and multiple dwellings in the same way the pre 1993 law did, with the following notable exceptions made to the new law:

A new, single definition of "areas in need of rehabilitation" was established to govern all exemptions and abatements which, if chosen, could enable an entire municipality to be designated as an area in need of rehabilitation (thus permitting new structures to facilitate infill construction).

The new five-year law also permitted, for the first time, tax abatements and exemptions for new construction of single family and multi-family dwelling units and non-residential structures rather than just improvements or enlargements to such properties.

The new law also increased the allowable maximum tax exemptions for the value added by an improvement from $4,000, $10,000, and $15,000 to $5,000, $15,000 and $25,000, respectively, as the municipal ordinance may specify.

Biography: Gerald Jerry' Dowgin "The Property Tax Doctor" and the author of the Homeowner's Assessment Review Guide (http://www.propertytaxdoctor.com) a former tax assessor worked in the field of public finance at the State and local levels in New Jersey for more than three decades until his retirement in 2001. As a Supervising Tax Analyst in the Office of Research and Statistics in the Division of Taxation in the New Jersey Department of Treasury he worked principally on local property tax issues. Then he joined the Office of Legislative Services (OLS) in 1983 and served as the Secretary to the New Jersey Property Tax Assessment Study Commission for four years. While working in the OLS, Local Government Section he researched, drafted, and estimated the cost of the Senior Property Tax Freeze Bill which was signed onto law and worked on legislation that became law that virtually stopped the tax assessment practice of "Spot Assessments" in New Jersey that had treated many property taxpayers unfairly.

Tan Stucco House With White

Ways To Get a Building Lot For Your Home

There are several ways you can get a lot for your new home. Most of these methods don't require you to buy a vacant lot that's already been subdivided. For instance, you could purchase:

1. A portion of someone's property. Once you had a signed purchase contract with the owner, you'd have to subdivide the land off from their property before you could take title to the lot. But finding a property owner willing to sell you a portion of their land could be difficult, and getting the land at a reasonable price might be even tougher. Your offer should specify that you would be responsible for paying the costs associated with the subdivision because then you'd have more control over the work being done, time frames, and the expenses charged.

2. An existing house on its lot. You would demolish the house and then build new. However, what you don't want to do is overpay for improvements (i.e., existing house) that are going to be torn down. Since your offer price for the property should take into account the cost of demotion, you should get estimates for removal of the existing house before submitting your offer.

3. A land parcel (vacant or not). The parcel would have to have enough frontage and area to produce 2 or 3 separate lots with all of the lots fronting on the existing street. The objective is to avoid construction of a new street. You want to create a "turn-key" scenario: subdivide the original property, record the plan, and sell off whatever lots you don't keep for your new home. With the lots fronting on the existing street, your target market wouldn't be limited to builders. It could also include people interested in buying just one lot for either investment or the future construction of their homes. If the original parcel included an existing house, so much the better, as long as the house had some value and its location within the land parcel wouldn't mess up an efficient subdivision of the entire property.

The following examples illustrate the difference in land cost between buying one lot and buying a parcel that could be subdivided.

Example A: 2 acre vacant land parcel zoned for single-family detached housing on 30,000 sq. ft. lots; public water and sewer; asking price is $200,000; assumed yield: 2 lots

Your cost for the property is reduced by the price that you can get in selling off the second lot. So, for instance, if you sell the second lot for $150,000, your total cost for the land portion of your new home project is $50,000 (plus subdivision expenses).

Purchase price: $200,000 ($100,000 per lot)
Less sale of second lot: $150,000
Effective land cost: $50,000 (plus subdivision expenses)
Gross savings: $150,000

Example B: 2 acre parcel zoned for single-family detached housing on 30,000 sq. ft. lots; public water and sewer; the existing house on a lot is worth $250,000; asking price is $300,000; assumed yield: 1 building lot + existing house on its own lot

Purchase price: $300,000 ($150,000 per lot)
Less sale of existing house on its lot: $250,000
Effective land cost: $50,000 (plus subdivision expenses)
Gross savings: $250,000

Example C: 2 acre vacant land parcel zoned for single-family detached housing on 80,000 sq. ft. lots (cannot be further subdivided); public water and sewer; asking price is $200,000

Your land cost is the highest in Example C ($200,000) because you're buying one vacant lot that can't be subdivided. The subdivision necessary in the other examples isn't going to run $150,000-250,000 (the amount of your gross savings). To get a good idea of what the expense would be, contact civil engineers in your area. Ask them what they'd charge to do a small (2 or 3 parcel residential subdivision). This type of subdivision may be considered by some municipalities as a "simple" or "minor" subdivision based on the total number of lots and the fact that no new street would have to be constructed. Make sure you consult a real estate attorney for advice and to see that your purchase contract covers your flank.

Nancy Chadwick is a PA licensed real estate Broker and Instructor specializing in land brokerage, consulting and development. See how she's removing the mystery about investing in land through books (Land Buying & Selling and Selling Land: The Owner's Guide), articles and more by going to http://www.LandBuyingandSelling.com/

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