Great video on how to fix a hole in your wall .
Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He has just finished a Home Buyers Guide to take some of the frustration out of home shopping.
If your looking for some more home inspection or home building ideas.
Cabinet Frame DamageOnce you find out that your favorite movie is scratched, that is not a feeling that you ever want to experience again. People tend to develop special attachment to their DVD's for various reasons. One reason may be because you might have family recordings located on them from your childhood. Another reason folks are so fond of their priceless DVD's is just simply because a lot of people like to have a nice, scratch-free collection of DVD's. Finding scratches on your favorite DVD is more of a nuisance than anything else. Do not panic because there is hope. There is a way to repair your scratched DVD, game disk, or CD.
One wonderful way to go about a DVD repair is to purchase professional software. The software will take the data from the scratched disk, retrieving the unreadable images and tracing them into a fixed disk drive, therefore retrieving all that was lost due to the scratches. This is actually a highly preferred method for DVD, game disk, or CD repair.
If you do not prefer to purchase software and would much rather go with the do-it-yourself route, then a basic DVD repair kit may be the way to go. A DVD repair kit generally comes with everything that you will need to repair your DVD. The materials consist of a DVD cleaning solution and soft white clothes. In order for the repair process to begin, you must first squirt the DVD cleaning solution onto the scratches that are on the disk. Next, take your small white cloth and wipe the DVD using very small, straight strokes from the centre of disk outwards. Do not bear down too hard, this could cause further scuffing of the DVD, causing more harm than repair.
There is also a Do It Yourself way to repair a DVD. All you need is some alcohol and a piece of soft lint free cloth. Gently dab the cloth into the alcohol, being careful not to soak the cloth. After you have moderately dampened the cloth, take your DVD and rub the cloth on the disk around in a gentle and straight motion. This is a great method for removing most scratches. In place of alcohol, you may also use toothpaste, regular all-purpose house cleaners, and polishes to help repair your DVD, game disk, or CD.
But the best way that has been found to be the most effective out of all of the methods listed above is by using the SkipDR Skip Doctor DVD/CD/GAME disk repair kit. The SkipDR can repair up to 50 disks. The SkipDR works by targeting the scratches that are causing the disk to skip, stutter, and not play. This is a very affordable device as well. Not to mention that you will be saving yourself hundreds of DVDs over a lifetime when using the SkipDR. The SkipDR does it for you in 3 simple steps: spray, spin, and shine. Check it out the SkipDR Disk Repair Kit
Laminate Cabinet Door DamageAccording to National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) price of sunroom ranges from $12,000 - $70,000. NARI estimates that the sunrooms can save up to 70% of the investment cost. The cost that is incurred in the construction of a sunroom includes the material cost and the labor cost. It has been projected that on average the material of a sunroom may cost up to $10,400. Constructing the deck, may require approximately $1500 of material. For the construction of the stairs the estimate material cost can be near to $270 figure. Construction of roofing system, floor improvements and all other material costs for the construction of an average sunroom can be very near to $13,500 - $14,000.
The second main aspect that should be considered while chalking out the cost of sunroom is the labor cost. For the construction of an average sunroom the labor charges can exceed $11,000 figure. For the construction of the deck, the labor cost is estimated to be around $1650. Likewise, construction of the stairs may cost from $200 to $250.
If we merge these costs with the flooring, roofing system and the total labor cost which is not less than $12,000 we can get a big figure of around $25,000. So it is obvious that only the construction of an entire sunroom can cost up to $25000. It is commonly seen that the sunroom prices can vary because of the material used in the construction work.
Many people like the aluminum work for their sunrooms and it is also widely accepted material for sunrooms construction because it makes the sunroom very beautiful. But on the other side many people also use wooden material in the construction of the sunrooms which may reduce the beauty of the sunroom as compared to the aluminum work. An aluminum sunroom can be constructed with energy proficient exterior and interior with panes that are thermally broken. A sunroom with wooden panels can also be constructed with beams that can give your sunroom a classic touch. Sunrooms that are covered with vinyl shell are commonly used in the building of the Victorian and Georgian Art schools.
The type of fixture that is used in the sunroom can increase its total cost. The types of windows and doors that are planned to be fitted are the main factors that may increase the costs. Sliding doors with dual locking system can also be fitted that are widely used because of childproof handles. The style of the sunroom also plays an important role in increasing the cost or reducing it. There are various roof designs that are introduced for sunrooms; include cathedral, straight, curved and conservatory. The roofs of sunrooms are normally made-up of aluminum with a coating that helps in restricting the injurious ultra violet rays of the sun from entering in the room. Aluminum costs are surely more than vinyl but vinyl provides more insulation that does the aluminum. If you are building a wooden sunroom then keep in mind that it can cost very much to you because it requires the proper maintenance and care. Make sure to build a budget for this project before you select designs for your sunroom.
Andrew Caxton is a freelance writer. Learn more about sunroom addition and patio enclosures at http://www.allsunrooms.com/enclosures.html
Floor RepairsYou can increase the value of your home with a good basement renovation. When you consider renovating your basement you need to determine why you want to renovate it. Maybe you want to make a basement room into a work out center, convert it to a television room, and make it into a kid's playroom or any of a number of other things.
Your project may be as simple as a new coat of paint on the dull walls or as extensive as a complete makeover into a new room. In any case there are some basic things you will need to consider and think about before you begin.
You will need to decide if the renovation to your basement will be easy enough for you to do yourself or if it will require the services of a professional basement contractor. Either way, you will have to prepare a budget.
One aspect in basement renovation that is extremely important is evaluating the quality of the air flow in the existing basement area you want to renovate. If your basement is moist, it will be prone to mildew. You will need to focus on getting the basement dry so it will be a place that you to go instead of a smelly place you avoid.
If your primary goal is to make your home a more comfortable place with the addition of quality space or improving the existing space, you need to consider basement renovation to accomplish this goal and add value to your home.
Considering basement renovation? Discover practical basement remodeling ideas online and turn cheap basement ideas into dream basements at a budget.
Roof Truss Water DamageAustin's booming economy has always been a draw for restaurateurs and bar owners, offering tantalizing new opportunities and a constant desire for something new and different. The latest craze to hit the hip Texas capitol is wine bars "both older, established places that have been around for years, and newer, funkier alternatives are drawing in crowds like never before. This trend is particularly noticeable in Austin's popular downtown warehouse district, where several new wine bars and restaurants have cropped up in the past year, and have found success and popularity among Austin's young professionals and older patrons alike.
But downtown isn't the only place you'll find excellent wine and gourmet food. Neighborhoods like Hyde Park and North Austin's Domain are home to their own wine-enthusiast hot spots, and south Austin is now home to a bright new star on the scene: The Grove Wine Bar & Kitchen.
Situated on Bee Caves Road (also known as Highway 2244), The Grove sits, unassumingly, in a small shopping center along the winding highway heading West of downtown. The interior of the bar/restaurant has a lovely ambiance, but the outside seating area and raised deck offer their own appeal. Overtaken by a massive tree, winding and bending its many large branches over, under, and throughout the outside deck and patio, The Grove's outdoor seating area is its own unique attraction. Water features subtly block the sound from the roadway, and a massive industrial fan bolted to one of the high, thick branches offers relief from the blazing sun which can be a problem for outdoor dining so many months of the year.
Tucked away under the branches of the massive tree, diners enjoy a delicious menu and wonderful wines at relatively inexpensive prices. With ten flights to choose from, and dozens more wines by the glass or bottle, The Grove offers a wide range of palette-pleasing options. But don't stop there pair your favorite wine with one of the many gourmet menu items, like an order of the chef's incredible bruschetta, which includes three different samplings from their nine delicious options like fresh mozzarella with tomato, garlic and basil; or grilled asparagus with crescenza cheese and prosciutto. And each portion is cut in half for easy sharing (although they're so tasty, you may not want to).
Another favorite appetizer is the traditional cheese plate dubbed "Wine's B.F.F." on the menu or the delectable Sampler Platter, featuring several cheeses, cured meats, roasted peppers and fruit.
The tempting food options aren't confined to the appetizer menu; The Grove Wine Bar & Kitchen also offers a variety of entrees that are sure to please. Their pizzas are exquisite, with fresh, exotic ingredients and wonderfully unique combinations. They also offer large, lush salads with fresh greens and homemade dressings, as well as mouthwatering pastas and paninis.
The Grove's charm lies in its lack of pretension with so many delicious menu options and excellent wines at such reasonable prices, it's no wonder this little wine bar and kitchen has quickly become Austin's newest wine bar hot spot, drawing patrons from across the city and throughout the surrounding areas. All it takes is one visit to understand the appeal of this cozy, unique little wine bar and why people keep coming back.
Escapeso Realty operates in central Austin. They provide visitors a search of the Austin MLS along with statistics on Austin real estate and Cedar Park Texas real estate.
Since the eighties, vinyl siding has been very popular. Many things has changed about vinyl siding. For the most part, modern technology has made it possible to choose from a larger variety of colors, color schemes. Nowadays, vinyl is virtually maintenance free. If your home was purchased 20 years ago, that old factory finish is in need of a makeover. If you want your house to have a new look again, all you have to do is paint it. Before you start painting vinyl siding, take the time to do a little research.
Painting vinyl siding to give it that fresh new look, will prove to be worth your time and effort. Before you start painting vinyl siding, talking to a professional may not be a bad idea. Actually it is highly recommended.
The first step to painting vinyl siding, and the most important step, is to clean up that old vinyl using some good old elbow grease and a high powered spray washer. If you forget this step, you have made a very big mistake. Your paint will not stick to the surface.
Absorbing all of the details of this task may cause a little anxiety, but if you are careful, you should do just fine. Vinyl expands and contracts depending on the temperature. Without a doubt, painting vinyl siding can be a difficult task. Choosing high grade acrylic latex will enable your paint job to last for a long time. High grade acrylic latex paint has remarkable bonding power. You will never have to worry about any cracking. It will expand and contract with the vinyl.
If you are thinking about changing to a new color scheme, the new color must be lighter. As has been noted, painting vinyl siding can be very tricky. Choosing a darker color will enable the vinyl to absorb more heat. For your safety and for better results, paint in overcast weather, and avoid direct sunlight. For the very best results, when painting vinyl siding, it is also highly recommended to apply two coats of paint. This extra coat is imperative for extra adhesion and flexibility of the vinyl siding,
Learning these very important tips and doing them carefully will save you a great deal of money and time. Likewise, you will be very proud of the outcome of your hard work. Your friends will think you just bought a new house. Your family will love the new look.
Learn About Painting Vinyl Siding by visiting http://www.vinylsidingworld.com/
If you are planning a new home or refurbishing an older one you most likely are looking to purchase a new garage door. Installing quality overhead doors in your home will not only help set the character of the home but also make it more secure. If you purchase a door based on garage door pricing alone is generally not a good idea. It is important to spend the time to do a good job of researching all the different overhead garage doors options available.
We suggest that you spend time on the Internet educating yourself on all the different types of garage doors that are on the market today. Depending where you live and the number and type of vehicles will need to be considered in the decision making process. If you live in Northern areas or at a higher elevation you should seriously consider an overhead garage doors with high R-value. You should select a door with an R-value of at least 15 if you are planning to heat or cool your garage. No matter how cold it is outside when you enter your car or truck will be warm and comfortable. In addition if you have a garage workshop a good insulated overhead garage doors means that you can use it all year long in comfort.
The type of vehicle and its size will determine the size of your garage opening and the overhead garage doors. The standard garage door sizes include 8x7 and 8x16 feet. While this size is usually sufficient for an ordinary medium size car it may not be large enough for a SUV, pickup truck, boat or utility trailer. If you are in the planning stage of your home and garage it may be wise to consider both an oversize garage and garage doors. In terms of cost adding additional space and size to a garage is a lot less than adding more square feet to the interior of a home. In addition you should seriously consider raising the height to the garage walls to 10 or 12 feet. This will allow you to utilize a taller overhead garage door that will accept a higher profile vehicle such as a pickup with a tall load in the bed. In terms of width you should consider door widths of 10 or 12 feet as well. This will assure you that your vehicles mirrors will clear the door when entering and leaving. Probably the best advantage of having a wider door will become apparent when you are backing a trailer into your garage. Most boat and utility trailers will require at least 8 feet of clearance. The extra width will make all the difference between damaging the garage or successfully parking your trailer.
Security is very important when it comes to overhead garage doors. Purchasing a quality automatic garage door opener that can be integrated into home security system is very important. If you own several man toys such as 4 wheelers, personal watercraft or a boat it is wise to make sure that they are secure in your garage protected by a good security system.
In terms of garage doors pricing you should spend the most amount of money you can afford on a quality door. However the most expensive garage doors may not be the best garage doors. Again taking the time to do a good job of researching all the overhead garage doors options available before you begin to build will yield many dividends. Purchasing a quality garage door is a sound investment in your home.
James Kesel, MS, is the publisher of the Garage Doors Pricing Website located at http://www.garagedoorspricing.com - Providing information on Garage Overhead Doors and the purchasing, installing and operation of a garage door.
R19 Floor InsulationStair building tips for installing lights and decking, handrail tips and some deck advice.
For more helpful home improvement information visit: http://www.gregvan.com
Patio BooksThere are many areas where you can experience significant energy savings when you are building a green home.By working with an architect in the early design stages, many of these areas can be addressed in the design of your energy efficient home, helping you to save money in the future and enjoy a healthier home:
1)Footprint:Reduce the size of your home.Your home design should be limited to only as much space as your family needs.This will keep your energy usage to a minimum right from the start.
2) Windows:Windows are a break in the thermal insulating barrier of your home.The higher quality window you choose the better performance the entire home will achieve.
3)Insulation:Even if you do nothing else, by choosing a superior building envelope for your home like structural insulated panels (SIPs panels) and/or an insulated concrete form foundation system (ICF), you will enjoy huge savings in heating and cooling your home (up to 50%-60% over a home without SIPs).
4) Passive solar design:By incorporating sunlight for lighting and heat and natural ventilation into the basic home design, you can reduce the size of mechanical systems and lighting in the home.
5) Heating system:Consider a renewable energy system to heat and cool the space and tap water in your home (solar, wind, geothermal).
6) Ventilation:Incorporate an air-to-air exchanger, or heat recovery ventilator (HRV) system into your home. This will replace stale air with fresh outdoor air while maintaining the temperature inside the home and conserving energy.
There are many other areas of the home that can be addressed to increase energy efficiency and save money over the life of your home. In the beginning stages of the home design, your green architect will discuss your opportunities to save money while providing a healthy environment for your family.
About the Author: Jeremy Bonin, a principal partner of Bonin Architects & Associates http://www.boninarchitects.com, is an award-winning green architect and the author of TIMBER FRAMES: Designing Your Custom Home. With a special interest in sustainable design and green homes, structural insulated panels (SIPs), as well as timber frame construction, Jeremy incorporates renewable energy practices where possible, including geo-thermal, solar, radiant heat, and energy-efficient foundation systems.
Electrical Panel RemodelingBasement finishing Ideas
Even a mere mention of the word basement can induce a feeling of disgust for some people. If you are a part of that group I suggest you keep reading this article because it's for you. The story of basement finishing although not as mystical as the transformation of the butterfly, it is equally powerful. It is the story of transformation from a moldy dungeon to a beautiful ball hall.
That transformation starts with an idea. Basement finishing should be a joyful process that starts with your imagination.
Can you imagine your basement as a home theater?
Do you think that a home gym is what you really need to get in shape? Do you have a decent playing space for your kids?
Having your basement finished means having those needs met.
And when it comes to customization of your newfound living space the possibilities are endless.
Home Gym
Whether you are a fitness enthusiast or just a busy health conscious individual, turning your basement to a home gym can have a number of advantages. Your very own fitness center can be just down stairs. You can use it to keep yourself in shape without all the cons of gyms and fitness centers. Time can be saved, and you can enjoy the luxury of being able to workout and watch your favorite TV show.
Having your basement turned in to a home gym means you choose your own equipment, the people you share your gym with, and hours that best suit you.
Home Theater
There is no pleasure like pleasure of watching your favorite movies on a big plasma screen with the thrilling atmosphere that only a state of the art Dolby surround sound system can create. It feels like a modern movie theater. Imagine that it also feels like home. That would be an ultimate pleasure for a movie lover. Turning your basement in to a movie theater probably costs less than you think and what you get in return will surpass your expectations. Picture yourself saying "let's go to the movies" and then just slide down to your basement, or should I say to your movie theater.
Can you resist the idea of creating a clean safe and fun your play room for your kids? Basements can be the safest places for your kids to play, and you even include them in the process of creating their playground.
Best Roach KillerThe other day, I was surfing the Internet and came upon an online home building bookstore that put together a website with the best-selling home building books on the market today. These books range from basic carpentry to advanced structural engineering and everything else you could possibly think of that could be related to the home building, selling, remodeling and construction process.
I couldn't believe the simple and easy to use. Here's a list of some of their books selections.
Photo Guide to Home Repair - The most up-to-date, complete, and useful guide to home repair a homeowner can have. With more than 350 projects and 2300 photos, virtually every home repair challenge.
Exterior Siding, Trim & Finishes - This first ever compilation by Fine Homebuilding on the popular subject provides builders with ideas for choosing the correct finishes for home exteriors, plus solid how-to information.
Flipping Houses - This book is designed for realty investors who want to profit from buying below market, making cosmetic improvements to add value, and then quickly reselling.
Bathroom Remodeling - Remodeling a bathroom is a challenge - it's action-oriented and requires extra energy and stamina. But you, undoubtedly, realize it's a challenge you want to take on.
One $20 home building books or home repairs book, can save you lots of money, if you're willing to do a little research and the labor to complete almost any home building project.
By the way, if you're interested in learning how to repair a roof, build your own house, interior decorating, structural engineering, building a deck, gathering some more information about home painting or even remodeling your bathroom. Our online home building bookstore can save you money if you're willing to do the work.
Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He has just finished a Home Buyers Guide to take some of the frustration out of home shopping.
If your looking for some more House Remodeling Pictures or home building ideas.
Framing ArticlesConstruction claims is one of the many facets of construction law. This article discusses two key parts of construction claims: claim preparation and expert testimony.
Claim Preparation
Once a claim has been decided as the proper course of action, it is important to develop a strategic approach in preparing and presenting the claim. Doing so will maximize the potential for recovering potential losses. Your position is best supported by a thorough analysis of the project contracts and documentation, and compelling written and graphical illustrations of the facts. Trying to gather all of this information yourself can be overwhelming. A professional company that deals specifically in construction claims can help you prepare for all types of claims, including
scope changes
schedule delay and disruption
defective and deficient contract documents
construction acceleration
management issues
cost of corrective work
unforeseen and differing site conditions
tort claims
construction means and methods
construction productivity loss
delay claims
assessment of force majeure events
constructive and directed change
wrongful contract termination or suspension
payment claims
and of course, construction claim presentation and negotiation
Expert Testimony
An expert testimony is a testimony about a scientific, technical, or professional issue given by a person who is qualified to testify because of familiarity with the subject or special training in the field. The law divides witnesses into two classes, lay opinion and expert opinion. By definition, a lay witness is any witness who is not qualified to testify as an expert on a particular subject. On the other hand, expert witnesses are persons who are qualified, either by actual experience or by careful study, to form definite opinions with respect to a division of science, a branch of art, or a department of trade.
The law states that people who don't have the experience or training necessary are not fit to form accurate opinions or draw correct conclusions. Thus, in construction claims cases, expert witnesses are gathered for the evidence and professional insight that their testimonies can provide on the case.
Cost Verifiers (http://costverifiers.com) provides specific litigation support for construction claims. Rachel Spohn is a freelance writer.
If you are looking for the best type of replacement windows then you have come to the right place. I will provide you with very useful information that you can use to make the right decision as you start your window replacement project.
There are many ways of approaching this question of the best type of replacement windows. I will try and cover all the important aspects of it. That is, the best brands, best type in terms of make and functionality. Read it before you get scammed by an unscrupulous sales rep.
Energy efficient windows
If you are looking for the windows that will save you thousands on bills then your best type should be one that does a good job at energy saving. There are many brands like Amerimax but the best way to find one that will work for you is to use ratings. The best rating methods that are available today are the NFCR and the Energy star rating.
Durability
If you are planning to stay in that house for a long time then you probably are thinking about finding the best type of replacement windows that are durable. Well there are many brands that feature here - a few that comes to mind include Pella, Andersons, milgard to name a few. In previous articles I have written about top brands in terms if durability.
Storm Windows
To find the best type of windows that resist wind you need to find AAMA air infiltration rating or NFRC, which I highlighted earlier on. So if you are looking for the best type of storm replacement windows then think along wooden windows because they can easily be repaired.
Vinyl storm windows tend to get messed up pretty quickly. They then start leaking and get an ugly look that cheapens the house. Of course there are other options to explore here. Brands to consider here include Hurd, Marvin or Amerimax to name just a few.
Part of the house
Different windows work are good for different parts of the house. For example when talking about the best type of kitchen replacement windows then you need to think along casement windows. This is because kitchen windows must be airy. For the lounge you may need to consider bay windows and you can get yourself Milgard Vinyl for the back areas of the house
You also need to consider the best type of replacement windows that work well when cleaning e.g. tilt-in, double hung and if you want to take out the sashes and frames then your best type may be a full frame replacement window.
My point here is that "best" is different from one person to the next. As an expert I would recommend that you get in touch with a consultant to help you find the one suitable for you. It is easy to find help online without being charged anything.
Click here - the best type of replacement windows for instant access
Or find a list of pre-screened replacement companies located within your area. These can send a consultant over to your home for an obligation free consultation. Visit:
http://www.findreplacementwindowcompanies.com
If this article has helped you in any way then I hope you can believe me when I say this site will help you as well. Just follow the links from there to access more localized assistance.
When you shape the kitchen interior, the greatest problems are connected with drawbacks of planning and lack of space. Appropriately chosen kitchen furniture can resolve this situation, even more so that variety of models gives such an opportunity. The main thing is to imagine how your own kitchen acts out, i.e. even on the stage of planning you are to foresee conformity of all objects and their sizes. Believe us, this will greatly facilitate the whole process, up to setting the last shelf in the dresser.
So, you have already made up the list of all kitchen equipment with indication of its size. Now pay attention to technical details, such as dimensions and location of the ventilation, pipes, wiring, sockets, flexible (gas, water-supply) hoses etc. Enter all necessary stuffing in your list and you can set off for the shop to make your choice. If you are going to buy all elements of kitchen interior separately, dont forget that the standard depth of household appliances is 600 mm, so check in advance the parameters of the things you need.
The dominant is high storage cabinets for storing foodstuffs and high cabinets for storing inventory (brushes, brooms etc). It is necessary to remember that they should not break off the work surface and they should not be located on the outskirts of your kitchen field. If you prefer an inbuilt grill or oven, it is the high storage cabinet that will accommodate them without breaking the uniformity. Besides you can pick up the height of their location, so that it is convenient for you.
Now lets touch upon on-floor cabinets. They are the basis of your workspace, their height directly affects the extent of your hands fatigue after cooking food, a great amount of drawers on rollers can help simplify reaching out for any object of kitchen interior that you need at the moment. We advise that you plan the space of on-floor cabinets in such a way, that the most frequently used objects could be easily accessed (pullout rotating shelves), while the rarely used dishware can be placed on the ordinary shelves.
A detail: trays and baking sheets can be conveniently settled in the plinth case under the on-floor table, which in fact, can have any width, depending on your requirements. If the height of the on-floor cabinet (preparation table) is not convenient for you, the plinth will add several centimeters, necessary for your accommodation and will relieve your hands and back of overstrain. Important: it is extremely comfortable to work while sitting, so if you decided to bring in something new to the interior and give yourself a treat, plan a pullout shelf under one of cabinets of work surface or get a high (bar) stool.
Overhead cabinets are to be located not less than 450 mm from the work surface, it is necessary, in order to accommodate freely all used electrical appliances (a food processor, a coffee-machine, a toaster etc). The height of standard cabinets is 600 mm, perforce you can buy 900-mm cabinets. They will exactly reach the ceiling in typical flats. Even if after all this, there are some things left and there is some vacant space on top, we finish the composition by entresol shelves up to the ceiling (open or closed ones) or a cornice with inbuilt lamps. Corner wall-mounted cabinets have either open shelves, or a folding door, which makes all the contents visible; the rotating shelf is remarkable for its capacity and convenience.
The distance between the work surface and overhead cabinets is called the apron. With regard to the work surface the main thing for the apron is to be in harmony with it as to colour and texture. For instance, a glossy table top and glazed tiles, mat colour of the work surface and mat apron (covered with mat washable wallpapers or imitation of tiles).
Such attention to the image of the apron is connected with the fact that it should protect the wall from dirtying, for example, from grease that can be easily washed off. The work surface is often overloaded with objects and their abundance induces the feeling of discomfort. We will free it with the help of the apron. Lets fix the microwave oven on brackets, arrange the parade of species on the miniature shelves and place the small metal items and knives on the magnetic panel. One more nuance: the decorative nook (plinth), made of water-resistant materials, will protect the back surfaces of on-floor cabinets from ingress of moisture.
When you place standard furniture, there may be narrow gaps between separate elements or between the furniture and the wall. Use them put a narrow shelf or a table in this gap. For example, a movable table will increase the active surface and will be used as a serving table.
A narrow socle will prove useful for storing preparation plates, towels, bottles. Select the same materials for these inbuilt constructions as those used for main furniture. Kitchen furniture made from natural hard wood (oak, cherry, beech, nut-tree) and work surface from granite and marble look impressive and respectable.
Ultramodern directions of finishing are represented by metal surfaces (stainless steel, aluminum) and heat-resistant glass. Inexpensive surfaces can be made of laminated plastic, ceramic tiles, plastic. All these materials are rather practical and differ in the ways of installation and operation: laminated plastics is deformed by high temperatures, the tiles can crack as a result of unsuccessful landing of a heavy pan, plastic is vulnerable to scratches, but in contrast to laminated plastic it withstands high temperature almost without deformation. No kitchen can do without silent assistants, such as a gas cooker, refrigerator, sink. Selection of equipment depends only on you. When the kitchen is small, the equipment and sink are to be compact.
There are sinks of various shapes and dimensions; in our opinion, it is better to select a round sink made from stainless steel. It is smaller than the square one, yet everyone, who has ever used a round sink, will agree that it is more convenient for washing and cleaning, and besides it has a more aesthetic look.
It is very convenient, if the sink has additional ribbed trays for drying dishware, the water then does not spill on the surface of the table top and gradually trickles down to the sink. There are models, where the sink is combined with a drying apparatus, but if you have a dishwasher, you can do without a drying apparatus. Instead, choose a sink with two additional compartments for wetting cutlery and rinsing washed dishware. The drawback of the combined multisection sink is that it takes up too much space. If you have some room, buy a wider 800-mm table top instead of a standard 600-mm one. Then the part of the table top that adjoins the wall can be lifted for 15-20 mm and you will have a convenient shelf. Besides under the table top you can have a special cavity 20 cm deep that will allow you to conceal drainage equipment. As a result, we get additional space under the sink, where you can put a dishwasher and arrange shelves for cleaners on the remaining space.
The main principle of placing the sink is convenience. It should not be located far from the gas cooker and be connected with it via a common work surface. If the kitchen is small and you planned it as a single line (please refer to the previous article), place the sink in the center, and refrigerator and the gas cooker on each side. A sink in the corner looks good in a big kitchen. The main advantage is economy of space. It is possible to plan a kitchen island; in this case the sink perfectly fits into the center of the composition.
One more must of the kitchen interior is the gas cooker. Modern cookers with burners and an oven have the same height as the furniture, that is why there are no problems with breaking off the sole horizontal work surface. Nevertheless, if the cooker does not match this parameter, it is preferable to choose models with a flap that closes the burners, when food has been cooked.
Inbuilt kitchen equipment is more expensive, yet more convenient. You can use any combination of equipment at your discretion. This principle is called domino. The basic modules are gas and electric burners, an oven, a cooking panel. Delicatessen-lovers will install a grill, a deep-fryer, a steamer, a brazier. You are absolutely free in the flight of your fancy and can endlessly enrich your arsenal of kitchen innovations. Work with inbuilt models is practical, because you use minimum dishware and have maximum pleasure from cooking. Also important is the fact that cooker hoods are inbuilt as well, they absorb smoke and soot in the horizontal, but not vertical direction. A substantial drawback that prevents many people from buying inbuilt equipment is its high price.
A small fridge, as well as the washing machine, can be put under the work surface. If you need a big fridge, dont forget about the law of non-breaking off the work surface, when you place it.
So, you have taken care about all kitchen components, and in conclusion add to the interior some personal charm, because its face should reflect the traits of your personality.
Your imagination will prompt what elements of dcor are relevant in your interior, these can be flowers, paintings, porcelain collections or just cute trifles. The designers of the best repair and construction companies will help you orientate in the endless variety of kitchen furniture and household appliances. With their help your kitchen will be not only convenient and cozy, but will also become a unique reflection of your personality.
Arthur Prudent is a developer of London builders: kitchen, bathroom renovation - web site offering all aspects of builders services. Find Home Improvement articles at "Useful Tips"
Remodeling your home can make it feel like you have moved house but the problem is deciding on what choice to go with; choices have to be made and this is where the delays happen. When you decide on remodeling the interior or exterior of your home you also have to consider the expense of completing this task. The budget does control what gets done, whether the best materials are used and even those who will do the job so it is not a subject to be rushed.
The first step should really to call in a contractor who will make suggestions on materials and styles given the budget you will have set and talked about. If you intend to use the contractor to carry out the work you need to make it clear from day one, whose responsibility it is to purchase the materials.
It may be worthwhile at this point to let your neighbors know that there may be some remodeling disturbance for a while as it is always best to keep on their good side. Measurements are crucial and the importance of this aspect cannot be stressed enough as it will concern every aspect of remodeling including what materials you will be able to afford and are available. One of the hardest aspects to deal with is ordering the correct products and materials for your home remodeling and you might find it easier to leave this in the hands of the contractor.
Often a contractor is only called in to consult with the home owners with technical aspects which they have already made plans about. A general contractor negotiates a contract for the entire project, and either completes the specialized work with his own crew, or sub-contracts to other various house remodeling contractors. Some people that start these projects are quite experienced and prefer a hands on approach only employing a general or specialist contractor over aspects it they are not comfortable completing alone.
Often people do not want to move so home remodeling is the answer and it usually increases the value of the home at the same time. Some desired home improvements seem to differ from region to region (sometimes from city to city) so before embarking on any work, be sure to investigate what types of improvements are being carried out on in your neck of the woods. However, if you are just purely making your home a better place to live in, this remodeling may or may not coincide with what is happening elsewhere.
Of course many people carry out home improvements to increase the market value for when it is put on the market for sale.
Whilst it is the hope and expectation of every homeowner that they will make a profit on all the work that has been carried out, there is never any guarantee that this will happen. Even if your home remodeling is to increase the value of your property that does not mean that you cannot enjoy the experience and the result.
Francisco Segura owns and operates http://www.portablebuildingseasy.com
What if I told you where to get the ultimate fence building Encyclopedia? Better yet, what if I told you, you could get it for under $20? If you're building a standard 1 x 6 dogeared fence, that's 6 foot tall and made from wood, with 4x4 post cemented into the ground, this book might not interest you, but if you're thinking about building a fence, that will make all your neighbors jealous, you might be interested in the "Fence Building Bible."
If you're interested in using your imagination, along with some of the information in this fence building Encyclopedia, if you're interested in creating a masterpiece, instead of just another barrier that divides the property, you had better think seriously about, either running down to your local library and checking the book out, or purchasing the book, so that you have it on hand when needed.
Here's a quote from the product description that could be helpful, "Beneke suggests the appropriate types of fence to keep the swimming pool secure, con fine the livestock, keep deer away from the garden, or create outdoor living spaces. He then discusses the essentials of proper fence design and provides step-by-step illustrated instructions for planning, building, maintaining, and repairing any style of fence."
If you're planning on building a fence to keep livestock, it would be extremely helpful to know what kind of fence will be necessary to keep pigs or cows separated from the other animals, including you. There's nothing worse than building a new fence, putting some large cattle inside of it and having them tear it apart and escape.
The fence building Bible as simple instructions, with lots of illustrations, to give you plenty of ideas. There's a good chance that you will see a fence in this book that you have never seen before. If you're thinking about building something out of the ordinary, I would suggest strongly, that find this book.
Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors.
If you're really interested in learning more about remodeling, new home construction, home maintenance, home repairs and really want to get the nuts and bolts of home improvement. Visit our web site and select from the best-selling home building books on the Internet.
Home Plumbing BooksRenovating your home is a large undertaking, and you want it done right. If you have decided to hire a professional contractor for the job, there are a few things to keep in mind in order to protect yourself as well as your most valued investment, your home.
First and foremost, research your state's legal requirements for contractors regarding insurance, licensing and workers compensation, so that you can eliminate any contractor who does not comply. Visiting the Contractor's License Reference Site is one way to learn about licensing requirements in your area and find out whether a particular contractor holds an active license.
Asking friends and family for references is usually a good starting point for finding a contractor who will perform quality work. Many contractors and home renovators agree that the best way to research a prospective contractor is to contact past clients, ask detailed questions and if possible, visit one or more work sites to check out the quality of the work. Tom Silva, general contractor at This Old House, shares a couple of other excellent ideas for finding good contractors in his article How to Hire a Contractor(1). Tim suggests checking with a building inspector to learn whose work is typically up to code or consulting with a local lumberyard about which contractors purchase quality materials and stay current on accounts.
Each contractor who will be quoting your project (typically at least three is advised) should be given the same set of specifications to ensure that your quotes are comparable. Though it may be tempting to automatically hire the contractor with the lowest bid, price is not always the best criteria for deciding which contractor to hire. The contractor you ultimately hire will be spending considerable time in your home, and the work performed will likely impact your home's value. Selecting a contractor with the skills and professionalism to deliver quality work can help ensure that the effect of your renovations on your home value is a positive one.
Once you have selected your contractor, ensure that every detail of the project is outlined in the contract, including projected start and finish dates, procedures for changes, a payment schedule, labor and material charges, a lien waiver and any specific agreements you have made with the contractor. Do not count on verbal promises alone; even if the contractor has a standard contract for most jobs, provisions may be added to the contract upon agreement between both parties.
(1) www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/0,,199776,00.html
Maria Polidoro is the President of Ace Tool Online, a leading distributor of over 70 quality power tool brands. Headquartered in Wantagh, New York, Ace Tool Online also offers over 40,000 genuine power tool parts and is an authorized service center for over 50 manufacturers. Please visit Ace Tool Online for industrial cutting tools and the latest products from Milwaukee Tools, Festool and more
The MOST important maintenance for any dryer is a clear exhaust. The shorter the venting run with the least amount of 90 degree turns, the better the performance of the dryer will be. Improperly maintained dryer vent systems can cause premature failure of some of the inner components of the dryer as well as pose a fire safety risk.
For the best drying results, clean the lint filter before beginning each load. If you use dryer sheets, periodically take a soft bristle brush and gently clean the screen with hot soapy water. Over time the sheets leave a waxy film that clogs the screen and prevents good air flow. You may not be able to see this residue well but you can test this by simply running water over the screen to see if it flows through or beads on top.
If you decide to run a cycle with just a few items inside of the drum, toss in a few other items of varying size to promote good tumbling. Dryers with an Auto-Dry cycle will not dry properly with a very small load because of the difficulty of the clothing items making consistent contact with the wetness sensors.
Never use the white plastic exhaust duct on any dryer. This is the inexpensive venting that can be found at many hardware stores. They are not recommended because they create a fire hazard from the plastic materials propensity to attract lint. Over time this lint buildup will clog the vent and force lint to accumulate in the interior of the dryer near the burner tunnel. Try to only use the flexible metal duct or rigid duct that can be purchased from a home improvement or appliance store.
Improper venting or a clogged vent will give the following results:
1. Long dry times
2. Clothes still hot and damp after cycle ends
3. Premature failure of the safety thermostat (often when this thermostat fails, the dryer will not turn on at all)
Venting dryers indoors is strongly discouraged because of the combination of moisture and heat that can produce mold resulting in chronic illness and respiratory problems. Also, the drying time will be extended as the dryer pulls this warm moist air back inside instead of dry air.
Stay tuned for more appliance repair and maintenance tips from St Paul Appliance Rescue.
Andrew Mandel is the owner of an appliance repair company in St Paul, Minnesota
http://St Paul Appliance Rescue.com/home
Bay Window Fascia And SoffitWhen looking to build your own outdoor shed the first place to start is with the shed foundation. Your storage shed needs to be built on a strong foundation. Whether it is wood or concrete your slab needs to be a firm base that your outdoor shed will be built on. If you don't have a good shed foundation then your shed will not last as long as it should.
Wondering when to use a concrete slab or wood for a shed foundation? Here are the two main reasons for choosing one or the other. A wood foundation for your outdoor shed will allow you to move it if you ever decide that your original spot is not right. If you use a concrete slap then you will not be able to move it at all.
After you figured out what type of foundation you want you need to start to assemble it. If you're going to use the wood foundation, make sure you use pressure treated wood. Any home improvement store will have it just make sure to ask for help if you're unsure of the type and size you need. Tell them you're building an outdoor shed and they will be able to point you in the right direction.
An easy way to build a nice strong shed foundation is to get a couple of skids. These can be found at just about any store and usually they are in the back and free. Lay the skids out and placing your pressure treated wood around the outside nail then together. Using 3/4" plywood for the floor will give your outdoor shed a very strong foundation. Using bricks under the skids will help level the shed floor off and also keep any moisture from getting into our wood foundation.
If you decide to use the concrete slab make sure you have picked out the correct location, as this will be a permanent structure on your property. If you need your outdoor shed to support a lot of heavy equipment then you want to use the concrete slab foundation. It will be able to hold a lot more weight than the wood foundation.
It's always best to have a plan of attack before starting any home improvement project: it can save you time and money. Think about what you plan to keep inside your outdoor shed, if its going to be heavy equipment and you know that the wood foundation is going to be raised up off the ground 5-8" you may need a ramp to get stuff in and out. A concrete foundation can be made to be ground level. Keeping all these things in mind before you start building your outdoor shed will make this go so much faster and give you less headaches.
Learn more about outdoor storage sheds & buildings
Well this is about the third time for me, going through some tough times and the bad economy, in the construction business. If you're a remodeling contractor or are currently working in the remodeling business, you're in a better position than those who are used to working in new construction, track framing or commercial tilt ups.
I got out of and will probably never go back to, track house framing. There were some pretty tough times and plenty of ups and downs, during the first recession I went through, which started in 1980. I was working one day a week and just barely making enough money to pay my bills. I would actually buy a box of doughnuts and make it last me for three days. Not the most healthy thing you could eat but financially, it did the trick.
I never wanted to go through that, ever again and decided to try my luck in the remodeling field. I've never had to go through the tough times like that ever again. I hope I never have to either, even though things are pretty bad right now, for those reading this article in the future, the date is March 3, 2009 and the economy is on the verge of going into tougher times. It seems like everyone is holding their breath, for the government to bail us out, with a stimulus package.
I don't know about the stimulus package, but I do realize, that once the interest rates drop, I would imagine, and that most remodeling contractors are going to have a free-for-all and plenty of work. People right now are waiting to buy homes, and when the interest rate drops, I would imagine the prices of some of these homes will actually increase as they start to get snatched up, remodeled and repaired to either rent down or sell at a profit.
Home owners that are waiting to remodel their bathrooms, kitchens or other home improvements, are waiting for signs that the economy is going to get a little stronger. This will provide them with a sense of job security, I know a few people who are waiting until we come out of the recession, to do any home improvements, because they're afraid of losing their jobs and not having the money in the bank to make their payments.
I live in Southern California and when I go to my local home improvement center or lumberyard, the parking lot is full. This tells me, that people are still working, buying and selling things and the economy isn't really that bad. For those remodeling contractors who aren't doing much work right now, there is hope and light at the end of this economically miserable tunnel. Things will get better and if you look back at history, things always do get better.
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Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He has just finished a home buyers advice to take some of the frustration out of home shopping.
If your looking for some more Remodeling Pictures or home building ideas.
Drywall is a material used for finished construction of core walls and ceilings. Recently if your walls / ceilings have been spoiled due to slope that is directed towards your house, floods, leaking pipes, or any reason, then immediate attention should be given to them to treat them successfully. Here are few tips to treat the ugly looking drywall water damage patches on the wall.
The best way to treat the drywall water damage is to isolate the complete area. Check the area for softness and discoloration. At times it helps in detecting the cracked and leaking pipes. The dripping water down the roof or overhead pipes are indicators of severe problem, therefore call a professional help immediately. If you are handling the damage all by yourself, then here is checklist of tools you would require for repairing the damage: industrial strength fans, joint compound, drywall patch, drywall tape, putty knife and nails.
For isolating area from the rest cut wet drywall patch from rest of the wall and circulate air through vent using high intensity fan. The high intensity fans are available at all hardware stores easily. If you have a dehumidifier, then turn it on to put the moisture completely away from wall. Continuously monitor the process of drying, still if you find moisture after 12 hours then detach more segment of the wall. This will help in better airflow and prevent development of molds & mild dew. Once the wall dries completely then reinstall the drywall & studs. While reinstalling people have reported instances, where after the water damage there has been ruptures in the wall or buckles has erupted then carefully sand down the portion and do the needful. If the crack is very large, then it is essential to install a plywood supporter board on studs. This will help in holding the new drywall properly at the place it is been fixed.
If necessary take a professional help. If the damage has occurred due to pipe leak then leave a small gap / clearance between the wall & floor top. This will protect the wall from any future damage due to water leak. Hope this article on drywall water damage would have been useful to you.
Born and raised in New Delhi, India, Mohita completed her graduation in English Literature from Delhi University, India. She also holds a Master's degree in Journalism from Makhanlal Chaturvedi Rashtriya Patrakarita Vishwavidyalya, Bhopal. She is currently working as Content Writer.
Modern roofs are much more than coverings to keep out the elements; they are an investment and can be a costly expense if not well cared for. Roofs of the past let hot summer air and the winter cold into the uppermost regions of a facility or private home. As facility managers looks for ways to reduce overhead and maintenance costs, roofing is becoming a focal point for those who need to manage the health of their buildings as well as their energy costs.
Choose the Material for your Climate
There has been a marked increase in roofing manufacturers since 1970 till now there are about 500. New energy efficient roofs have taken the place of the old chemically based sheets of shingles. Not only do they save energy but they last anywhere from ten to forty years longer than their predecessors. With proper maintenance a new, energy efficient roof can protect a business for up to fifty years!
Not only do you have a wide variety of materials to choose from, there are many different roofing materials to serve different needs. Those in climates with long, hot summers might want to choose a new tile roof that draws hot air in at the eave level and expels it at the ridge, using hot air's natural cycle of rising to keep the building cool. Chemical roofs were once the norm but now roofs are more complex-cool roofs, metal roofs, even green roofs are becoming more common. Cool metal roofing would be more efficient for tropical climates and save up to forty percent on energy costs. Old asphalt roofs trapped heat whereas metal reflects it. These cool metal roofs can also reduce the temperature of a neighborhood by about twelve degrees!
How Modern Roofing Works
A roof that keeps hot air away from the building can save thousands on indoor climate control. The temperatures on a roof can reach 150-190 degrees and new energy saving materials can keep that heat away from the interior of the building. During the replacement cycle that all roofs have, replacing old school roofing with new energy saving materials and extras can save a significant amount of money. By keeping the hot air moving away from the roof, the air conditioning unit doesn't have to work as hard, extending its life and saving on maintenance costs.
Extras Will Save More than they Cost
Extras that can be added onto an existing roof, such as sky lights and vents, can also extend the life of a building. Tinted skylights will reflect harmful UV rays while making use of natural lighting while un-tinted skylights can allow in the warmth of the winter sun. Many facility managers are staggering both types of skylights and adding interior shields in order to take advantage of natural light in all seasons and solar warmth during the cold season.
Regular inspections, especially before or after severe weather incidents will extend the life of your roof while the cost of such inspections are actually investments in your roof's longevity and efficiency. Inspections can catch a few loose shingles or tiles before they turn into costly repairs.
Rialto Management Corp. manages properties in New York city. For more information about NYC building management or New York City building management please visit their website.
Bathroom ToiletsWith a professional, homeowners know they are getting the very best the field has to offer. Trained in the ins and outs of the craft, these professional contractors will be able to provide a level of service unmatched by even the more savvy amateur painters. When it comes to paining, homeowners should stop at nothing to ensure their paint job is the best on the block.
A house painting contractor will help to ensure that homeowners get the most out of their painting projects. A well-painted house will turn any remodeling endeavor into a beautiful creation. The exterior painting of a house will do wonders to improve the quality of the rest of the projects in a remodel. This ensures that things come together nicely and the work that went into creating the remodel is put to good use. With a house painting contractor, homeowners know they are in good hands and are able to sit back and relax a bit.
They may also choose to focus on other projects that may not need the expertise and training of a professional. Handling these smaller tasks may help to get things moving faster and get the remodel done as quickly as possible. When things are moving forward like this, the homeowner is able to enjoy the finished product sooner. A house painting contractor will help to ensure the exterior painting, one of the most important aspects of any home improvement endeavor, is done right and in a timely fashion. After all, nobody enjoys delays to their project.
More information on a house painting contractor is just a click away.
Painted Wood WindowsMore and more purchasers today are opting for prefab metal building kits. And why not? With all of the advantages that metal building kits offer, it would almost seem to be a mistake to choose any other construction method.
But how can one decide which type of kit is best suited to your needs? Is a pre-engineered metal building kit the right option? Would a panelized metal stud building kit be a better choice? What about a metal arch building kit? Or a fabric covered metal frame kit?
It is up to you the purchaser to complete your due diligence to ensure that you understand the differences, the benefits and the drawbacks to each building type in order to make the best choice for your building needs. For that, you need to do some research to see what each of the products is like.
Pre-engineered steel buildings can have large open areas, but can be more difficult to finish the interior. Panelized metal stud building kits when erected resemble a steel version of a conventional wood stud building which can have as many as six or seven storeys in height (great for office buildings and condos). Metal arch buildings have a user friendly erection process but its more difficult and costly to have window and door opening on the building sides
All metal building kits have the advantage to the purchaser of being prefabricated in whole or in part in a factory environment. This of course means that a higher level of quality control can be achieved. That item alone should put purchasers at ease. It also means that the purchaser must have all accessories and special loadings accounted for up-front. Once these prefab building kits leave the plant, it may be difficult to make changes that affect the structure.
If you are having your building kit erected by a contractor, it is important that you feel comfortable in dealing with that contractor. You may find that you feel uneasy in dealing with the contractor with a very good reputation. This combination will only spell more stress for you during the erection process and may have you second guessing what has been done.
If I have one parting thought for you its this: Do your homework. Understand what is available to you in each metal building kit. Understand what requirements you have for your new metal building. Evaluate carefully the benefits and shortcomings of your options. Only then can you make a stress free, informed decision.
For more information on the types and uses of metal building kits, visit http://www.prefabmetalbuildingkits.com.
Prefab Metal Building Kits is a website for potential purchasers and contractors alike. Visit http://www.prefabmetalbuildingkits.com for information on the types and uses of metal building kits. You will find information on equipment, tools and software as well.
Damaged Vent ScreenAuthentic antler lamps are an incredible addition to your home decor that creates the essential rustic lighting that most homes need. These hand crafted naturally shed antlers truly brings the outdoors to life in any room in your southwestern or country home. Each lamp is a unique, one-of-a-kind because of the genuine antlers that are found in spring after the deer, moose or elk have naturally shed them. If you wait too long to collect these treasures, small critters of the forest will chew on them for the calcium. Older sheds are generally more difficult to find.
Your country home decor will be complete with an antler lamp used as a table or desk lamp. The variety of styles and shapes are endless. However, you may like to have a hand crafted antler chandelier. Your kitchen decor especially, will be enhanced with this type of chandelier hung above your island. I have seen that they are beautiful hung above the dining room table to truly give an outdoor rustic look. To top off the beauty of the chandeliers, be sure to enjoy the glow from the natural rawhide chandelier shades.
Whether you choose to have leather or rawhide lamp shades, you will love the variety of shade colors. You may choose one of several colors in the pig skin leather shades as well as the rawhide laced lamp shades. Leather lamp shades have your basic color scheme colors for any home or southwestern decor. The rawhide shades are made of natural goat skin that is kept natural, bleached or dyed to create a colorful glow for your home lighting.
Log cabin decor would be missing something if it did not have a deer antler lamp as a part of its log home lighting. When you think of log cabin, you think of the outdoors, right? So definitely embrace the outdoors in your cozy home. You will find that these hand-crafted lamps are perfect for your cabin decor. You may even choose to hang a chandelier above the pool table in your lodge. These rustic lamps can be complete with pig skin leather or rawhide lamp shades, hand painted with a wildlife scene or of the many remarkable animals from the woods.
Another wonderful fact is that you may also have antler sconces to use as wall decor. These wall sconces have been beautifully made with real antler sheds mounted to a natural log plaque. Very unique in its appearance, these sconces are completed with rawhide candelabra shades. Your rustic decor will be outstanding with these one-of-a-kind pieces of art, whether it is for your lodge or a cottage in the woods.
Your western lighting will be exceptional when you have your own antler lamp. Being out west really reminds one of the memories from the early pioneer days. I am sure that along the wagon trails or during the search of a creek, they would stumble upon the natural sheds. Now, your southwestern home can be enhanced by the wall sconces or antler table lamps from genuine antlers. Who would have thought that a simple way of life would become a natural treasure for our western or country style decor needs?
You will definitely have unique home decor when you combine these rustic lamps with your additional country, hunting or wildlife theme. Some are crafted so artistically that it will make you delighted to have one of your own. Never settle for the ordinary pieces of home decorum. Be creative in all of your endeavors. Whether the table top, desk lamp, hanging antler chandelier or wall sconces, you can be thrilled to know that these antler lamps can set a perfect tone for your southwestern or country home.
Don't be taken advantage of by expensive specialty stores and middle men. You can get Antler lamps and Chandeliers directly from the artists at Mission Del Rey. They have a sale on this week. Plus, you can use private coupon code "article" for an additional discount off the sale prices, on anything you like. Learn more with free articles and tips too. Take a quick look... http://www.missiondelrey.com
Here's some things to think about before walking on the roof of a house. If you slip and fall off the roof you could get hurt seriously. For your own safety if you have no experience walking on a roof use extreme caution. I would even suggest using a ladder and moving the latter around the perimeter of the house if you are inspecting the roof for damage.
Here's some things to keep in mind before walking on a house roof.
1. If the building is above two stories hire a contractor especially if you think the roof has building damage.
2. If the roof is too steep stay off. This could be extremely hazardous to your health.
3. If the roof is severely damaged and has loose shingles or tiles, this could create a safety hazard as you slip on one of these loose shingles and possibly fall off the roof.
4. You should stay off the roof at all costs if there is snow or ice. Ice obviously is extremely slippery and would be difficult to walk on. The difficulty would be increased if the roof has a steep slope.
5. Now last but not least if the roof is wet you should avoid walking on it until it is dry. I have been on wet roofs before and personally slipped myself losing my balance but not falling off of the roof.
Climbing up on a roof and walking around is not child's play and should be left to an experienced professional . If you feel comfortable walking around on any roof please use caution. If you slip in the middle of the roof there is a good chance you will be able to regain your balance or have time to stop yourself before falling off.
I would suggest using caution near the edges of the roof. If the roof is too steep or you don't feel comfortable, why risk serious injury. Use common sense along with the proper ladders to ensure your safety and "Think before walking on a house roof."
Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He is currently working on more building stairs books and adding useful content to help solve problems created by the lack of construction knowledge in the building industry.
Support Post For Valley BeamWhat a great idea using your old side walk or driveway to build a nice stairway for your front or back yard. Using the old concrete instead of sending it to the landfill. Wow talk about earth friendly. Who would have thought that using recycled concrete would create a beautiful center piece in your landscaping plans.
That's enough about that lets get to the nuts and bolts of building the stairs. I came across the idea by visiting one of our favorite breakfast stops in Fallbrook. I had been walking down these stairs for quite a while when it dawned on me that the stairs where kind of jagged. When I took a closer look I couldn't figure it out, What kind of building materials did they use.
Then I realized it was recycled concrete in other words someone's old side walk. They even used the old concrete to make some nice planter boxes and retaining walls. The whole area really looks nice. The landscaping created natural look with a old world look to it.
How do I build the stairs using recycled concrete? Simply put first thing you need to do is get some recycled concrete. If you are going to be tearing up a old sidewalk, driveway or patio then you won't have to look far.
If not you can contact some local general or demolition contractors. They would love to have someone haul away their concrete. The reason for this is they have to pay around five hundred dollars for every ten tons hauled away from the jobs they are working on.
The more recycled concrete you need the easier it will be to get it. If you need a lot you will be able to contact a concrete recycling plant and get the phone number to a local contractor that hauls broken up concrete to their plants. These people can drop off a large load if you have a large area to drop it.
Remember that most contractors don't want to be bothered because they are busy working or planning on working. The easier you can make it on the contractor the more likely you will get what you want from them. They usually aren't interested in doing extra work just to make you happy. You can get a lot by being courteous from most people.
Now that you have the concrete you can start building. The concrete will be stacked on top of the other concrete to form the steps. Depending on how long of a stairway you are building you will have to level the dirt and stack the recycled concrete to make the stairs.
Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He is currently working on more building stairs books and adding useful content to help solve problems created by the lack of construction knowledge in the building industry.
Visit us now for more great Home Remodeling Tips
Lower StairsIn the building trade (and for your home) the term 'cladding' refers to applying one of many types of materials to the external walls of a house to increase protection from the elements. Cladding protects a home by reducing the infiltration of rain or damage caused by frost for example. As well as increasing the protection of your home, it can also add a stylish and modern touch to homes and commercial buildings.
What types of cladding are there?
Wooden cladding
Popular choices include pine and spruce although larch and cedar are also good choices as they can be used untreated. As wood can be cut and trimmed to any size, you can select from a range of sizes to suit your home. Make sure you speak to the experts about the thickness and size of cladding most suitable for your home. As every tree is different, wooden cladding can create a really unique look to your home. You can purchase it pre-treated or for the individual look you can treat it yourself with a wood-stain to get the finish and colour you require. With wooden cladding it's important to make sure the cut ends of the wood have been treated with preservative to ensure water doesn't seep in and warp the wood.
UPVC cladding
UPVC cladding is generally a cheaper alternative to wood but it can look just as attractive. UPVC is very easy to maintain which means you won't need to worry about the upkeep of your cladding if it's been installed correctly. UPVC cladding doesn't require painting so it's a great solution if you want an attractive look without the hassle. This type of cladding is versatile enough to be used on any style of home to increase the protection of the exterior walls.
Stone cladding
Natural stone cladding is a great look for property of all ages, particularly properties in rural surrounds. If you want the effect of stone cladding but without the expense of covering your whole home then you can add subtle touches such as to your porch, garage or the side of your house which takes the brunt of the weather. Stone cladding is very durable so is a great long term investment. If you have a large budget then you can really make an impact with luxurious stones such as granite or marble. Stone cladding is a popular choice for business properties such as hotels or offices as it looks stunning and can make a building really stand out. It is also a regular feature in lobbies, entrances and receptions and stones such as quartzite have a natural sparkle to them which adds a real touch of luxury.
Don't forget that wood and stone cladding can also be fitted into your home's interior. Marble for example can be a stylish and low maintenance option for bathrooms and as it's durable, it saves on the time and cost of refitting tiles every few years.
Cladding can have considerable benefits including protecting your home and creating an aesthetically pleasing look. It can be difficult to remove though so make sure you consider all the options and speak to the professionals before you have any fitted.
When you're planning any bathroom remodel, consider the costs of the bathroom remodeling versus the return on the actual investment. According to one of the popular remodeling magazines, the average bathroom remodel throughout the country cost around $16,000.
If you were to sell your house within a few years, you could recoup around $12,000 of your original investment. This would translate into a $4000 loss to your pocketbook eventually.
Using these numbers for your bathroom remodel investment, you would recoup around 75% of your original investment. If you know anything about investing money, this will not be a good rate of return and if you keep investing your money like this, you won't have any to invest, eventually.
Keep this in mind, if you're going to be selling the home within a few years. If the bathroom isn't in good shape and you're not planning on selling soon, you could remodel the bathroom and enjoy it for quite a few years. You wouldn't be looking at this as an investment but as maintenance costs.
If you need to remodel the bathroom, because it's getting a little run down and will create a problem when selling a home, I would suggest minor remodeling, if the toilet, fixtures and bathtub is in good condition, I would suggest changing the sink, cabinet, bathtub surround, flooring and some new paint.
If you're remodeling cost is now at $8,000, you would recoup at least $6,000 and would only lose $2000 on your original investment. Now this still doesn't make any sense, if you're still losing money, why would you even want to remodel the bathroom. Why not sell the home as it is and not lose any money? This is a tough decision to make and keep in mind, these are average costs.
You could recoup less or more than 75% of your bathroom investment costs.
Most real estate professionals will advise you to remodel the bathroom for two reasons, for one the house will sell for a few more dollars, and this will increase their sales commission. The second one is probably the most important for any one selling a home, the home could sell faster.
If you have the time and are in no hurry to sell the home, I would suggest trying to sell the home as is first and then sprucing it up, if you can't sell it within three months.
Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He has just finished a Home Buyers Guide to take some of the frustration out of home shopping.
If your looking for some more Remodeling Pictures or home building ideas.
Del Mar RemodelingGrowing up, I had a good friend named Reggie who lived in a house that was always clean, always well decorated. Due to this fact, painting and decorating has always come easy for me.
His mom liked to do a quick re-paint of their whole house every spring. She and Reggie (his dad died when he was young) would take a whole week to give everything a fresh coat of paint. His mom was a very clean women. She was raised on a farm and I guess people back then farm kids were raised well.
Because my best friend and his mom would take a few days to go throughout the house painting, no doubt this made an impression on me. I would come into the kitchen or go through their house and everything was nice and new. A nice lifestyle. Something painting decorating is all about - it adds flavor to our lives.
As I got older and found a wife, I moved into one of my grandfathers apartments. I noticed that he was a good painter also. He painted white ceilings with pastel color walls and the woodwork trim was enameled white also. So from these two experiences alone I learned how to be a good painter decorator.
Basically if I was to do a custom interior paint job, I would get custom color charts from the paint store. Paint stores have historical custom color charts with three-color schemes. This helps to take the guesswork out of matching and choosing colors as well as planning out a color scheme for each room.
From there all you have to do is pick your curtains, bedspreads, carpeting, rugs etc. and match them to your new paint job. That's basically all there is to doing interior decorating as far as I see it. Then comes the talent. Some people have a knack for putting colors together that it looks really good.
If you just moved into a new house and there is existing carpeting that you don't want to change, tile floors, stained woodwork or painted woodwork that you plan on keeping the same, you simply have to match up new colors to those existing items.
I painted for an interior decorator off and on for a few years until they moved to another city. I painted most of her house inside and some of the outside. She had a real knack for pictures, wallpaper and furniture. She also had the money to do it all.
Painting decorating the outside of your home can be mentioned here also. There are exterior custom color charts that show three-color patterns or scenarios, even historical colors.
It can get rather pricey to live life at its best when it comes to painting and decorating your home. If you do a little bit at a time it can be a fun hobby. One thing that I highly recommend as a painter decorator is to use quality paints and wall coverings. Never skimp on these things. After all, why waste your precious time and resources on inferior materials? Especially if you have to live with it.
I like to see people put different colors in every room so that every room that you enter is a treat to the eyes and the emotions. I like to see colors that gradually flow from one room to the next gracefully. It's the little things like that that create the nicer lifestyle. There is power in color. Colors effect our moods.
Some people that I have painted for will put the same drab color in every room throughout the house as if they got a special deal on the paint or something. And some people never paint any rooms until they move out. They never get to enjoy the paint job.
Now I'm not all that good at choosing colors. I remember a friend in school that had some of those doodle art pens and was coloring a psychedelic VW Beetle. All his colors he chose were amazing. They all went together so well and they were bright.
As long as I use a custom color matching chart from the paint store I can do a pretty good job when painting and decorating houses. Nonetheless some people have real knack for making awesome colors flow.
Lee Cusano has owned his own successful painting decorating business since 1991. He has also helped many others to start their own painting business with his "Paint Like a Pro Estimating and Advertising CD-ROM". Lee also offers a new free report titled "How To Quit Your Day Job This Week and Double or Triple Your Income". To get it please go to http://www.painting-business.com
Oh yes the common problem of squeaking stairs in an older house. This could become very frustrating and annoying as you walk up and down the stairs. There seems to be one or two stair treads that are always squeaking. That annoying sound as you walk as softly as you can on your way down to the kitchen in the middle of the night to grab a quick snack.
The number one cause of squeaking stairs is when the nails used to fasten the stair tread to the stair strainers has worked its way loose. Over time as the lumber shrinks in the stair treads and the stairs stringers. You will start to develop a separation or a gap between the stair tread and the stair strainer.
The stair stringer can shrink as much as 3/8 of an inch in just a few years. I was building a home and went to measure the stair stringer that was 11 1/2 inches wide originally. Then I measured it after two months outside in the summer sun it now measured 11 1/16". I was amazed that the lumber could shrink that much in such a short period of time.
As the stair stringer shrinks it starts to pull away from the plywood or hardwood stair tread. As it starts to separate from the stair tread the nail will stay in its original position until the stair tread starts to put pressure on the nail eventually lifting it up a little bit higher than its original position.
As you step on the stair tread the squeaking sound you hear is the nail rubbing against the stair tread. There are a few ways to fix a squeaking stair tread. If you have access to under the stairway you can apply some adhesive along with a 10 inch 2 x 4 under the stair tread and attach it to the stair stringer.
First apply adhesive to two sides of the 2 x 4. The adhesive will be used to glue the stair tread to the stair stringer. You can use screws to screw the new 2 x 4 onto the side of the stair stringer.
If you cannot access the underside of the stairs and you have carpeting you can actually locate the stair stringer and drive a 2 inch screw through the carpeting in to the stair stringer. This will pull the stair tread down and will not allow it to rub up against the nail making that awful sound of a squeaking stair case.
If you have a finished wood stair tread you will not be able to screw through it into the stair stringer without damaging the finish on tread itself. It will be easier to access the stair stringer from below somehow and apply the 2 x 4 with the adhesive to stop the stair squeak.
You can apply these methods to as many stair treads that are squeaking without taking apart the entire staircase and rebuilding it.
Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He is currently working on more building stairs books and adding useful content to help solve problems created by the lack of construction knowledge in the building industry.
Mold On Oak Door JambBuilders rush to finish the homes they build. One of the key milestones is in getting the building covered with a roof. As soon as the builders finish the roof, they quickly realize that a roof is not complete unless the rain gutters are installed on it.
Gutters not only serve a functional purpose. They also provide a decorative element to the home. A Gutter system protect walls as well as the foundation, which may not be as water resistant is the roof. The reason being is that the materials used to make them are different which - brick, wood, concrete, cement and siding, to name a few examples. When the walls and foundation of a residence become water logged, they lose their heat protection quality. They can also suffer from liquid infiltration. As a result, owners can be subject to a wet basement and underground. The reason is because water goes directly from the roof into the ground immediately near the residence. This is brought on by lack of a sufficient gutter and downspout solution. The addition result of an inadequate solution is the reduction in the life of the foundation and the overall property. There is also the strong possibility of a health hazard as mold loves to grow in cold, damp and dark places with the basement being an ideal breeding ground. Getting rid of mold can be a difficult proposition, once it is established.
During the winter time, gutters go through extreme temperatures changes including extra weight strain from ice buildup. These combined stresses test the durability of them. The fall of large masses of snow from the roof onto gutters may also stress the brackets used to keep the solution attached. Under such circumstances, they can easily be broken. What is worse, when the snow melts, water flows into the gutter solution and produces layer upon layer of ice, also known as an ice dam. Pressure and weight is distributed unevenly in this situation. When one part of the system fails, the entire system loses its ability to adequately protect the home.
One of the ways to prevent ice dams from forming is the use of de-icing cables. These gutter de-icing systems, which can start at $100 and up, melt the snow into liquid before it touches the gutter system. The melted water stays in liquid form long enough to allow it to successfully drain through the downspout and away from the property. One of the drawbacks of using this system is its reliance on electricity to operate. Some solutions come with a timer, precluding it from being on all the time. This can cut down on the costs of operation. Otherwise, they will need to be on throughout the winter. For areas of the country that get cold weather but infrequent snowfall, the better alternative is to go out and manually break up the ice yourself. If you get snow more than once a week, or do not want to spend the time regularly maintaining your gutters, the de-icing system is the way to go.
For more information about Gutters, please visit Gutter Guards.ws. You can reach it by clicking on the following link: http://www.GutterGuards.ws
If you want to learn more about gutter maintenance, you should read the article entitled, Gutter and Downspout cleaning. You can reach it by clicking on the following link: http://www.gutterguards.ws/Gutter-and-Downspout-Cleaning.html
The cost of your remodel depends upon several factors such as the cost of materials and fixtures, the extent of your remodeling plans and whether you choose to hire a general contractor or do it yourself.. Finding the right general contractor and subcontractors can be a big challenge. You can save time searching by getting free quotes from prescreened contractors.
There are several ways to get an estimate for the cost of a remodel project:
Cost per square foot
This is the most common way to do a quick estimate. This method simply assigns a cost per square foot of area that will be remodeled. The cost can vary between $100 to $700 per square foot.
You can quickly see that this estimate has little value since the range of potential costs is so great. While $700 per square foot is unusual and it is unlikely you could spend that, $100 per square foot is unrealistically low unless you make great efforts to minimize the cost.
The RemodelEstimates.com calculator gives a more accurate estimate by considering information about the rooms that will be remodeled, the level of finish that you want, and how you will manage the project.
Estimate from a contractor or an architect
With a general idea of the rooms that you want to remodel as noted above, you should be able to get an estimate of cost from a contractor or an architect. They will likely use a cost per square foot to calculate an estimate, but they will not use a range as broad as $100 to $700. Find a great contractor fast and for free. To ensure the quote from the contractor is accurate you need to give the complete information about your project. To make these tasks easier and your whole remodeling project run smoother you should invest in a good organizer like The Complete Remodeling Workbook and Organizer.
While this estimate will be much more accurate than an estimate based strictly on the square footage, you will not have the ability to change your preferences and get a new estimate very easily from a contractor or architect. The remodelestimates.com calculator uses the same types of information as an architect or contractor would, and because it is fully automated, it allows you to create estimates for different combinations of materials and room changes for free.
Stopped Losing Your Car Keys
