Monday, August 31, 2009

Affordable and Applicable Home Improvement Tips

Everyone wants to upgrade and renovate his/her house in affordable way. Budget is the major factor of consideration. If your budget does not allow you to start major renovation projects such as adding new room or changing floor or alteration in room dimensions you can also go for less expensive affordable home improvements. Minor changes may results in remarkable difference in your home. With less expensive improvement projects you can improve your home and also save money for major renovation project. There are various styles available you can chose such as Victorian, country and modern. Now day's modern style is most popular home dcor. Due to popularity modern home dcor has become expensive. But there are still some ways to upgrade your home in affordable way. You can take advantage of certain affordable home improvement tips for affordable home improvement.

Affordable Home Improvement Tips
Affordable home improvement tips allow you to upgrade your home in less expensive way. Following are some affordable home improvement tips.

Use of Inexpensive Home Decorating Items
Use of inexpensive objects to decorate your home is the most easy affordable home improvement tip. You can use inexpensive home decorating accessories to make your house look impressive. Such accessories include curtains, fancy cushions and table covers that look compatible with the pattern and main wall color. This will make your room warmer and modern. Even a good family photograph at suitable place can add character to your room.

Paint
Paint is also less expensive and easy way to give brand new look to your home. You can select any color of your choice. You can use paint on old furniture, walls and floors to give new look. You can also create different designs with paint.

Mirrors
Addition of mirror to any place can make your room look larger than its actual size. It is best for small rooms. In larger rooms you can also use mirrors. Mirrors look great above fireplaces, beds, dressers and in bathrooms. It gives instant fresh look without making complete changes in every thing. It is also a useful and affordable home improvement tip.

Fabrics
Fabric is easy to use in different ways. You can use it in lot of creative ways. It is not necessary that you must buy new fabric to use. You can even use old fabrics in your house. Normally everyone has old table cloths and scarves in their homes. You can change the look of old furniture by simply covering it with cloth. You can also make pictures by covering canvas boards with beautiful scarves or cloth. This is very cheap way to add look as compared to buying expensive show pieces from stores.

Old Furniture
Another affordable home improvement tips is simply change the setting of your old furniture and give a fresh look to your house. This can be done by simply putting same furniture in other room with different theme. You can make your furniture look different by painting it with different color or by covering it with fabrics.

Stenciling
It is also a simple home improvement tip to make your room alive. Stencils are easily available. It can easily paste on the walls. You need to paint them and remove them. It will leave a nice and clearly defined design to add character to your room. It can also used on fabrics and furniture.

Photographs
Beautifully framed photographs are also good option for adding value to your room. It is very affordable home improvement tip for those who have limited budget to renovate your room. The only cost is framing of photograph. Photographs can give pleasant effect to your room.

Working with what you already have
Utilizing all the things you already have is also an affordable home improvement tip. Most people purchased decorating items that does not match with furniture you have. To solve this issue you must try to purchase things that are compatible with other things you already have.

You can visit this site http://www.theyarelocal.com/articles/home_improvement_tips/index.php to know more home improvement tips.

Prefabricated Shower Stalls - Tips For Installing

Installing a prefabricated shower stall often turns out to be a tricky and time-consuming job that takes great practical skill, yet with sensible pre-planning and the right tools for the job, a professional result can be obtained by the average home-handyman. Allow 3-4 days to complete the work and brush up on your carpentry, plumbing, wall-preparation and finishing skills because you're going to need them all!

To begin with, make sure you have the right equipment and tools before you begin the job. Importantly, purchase the shower stall before building the frame it will fit in in order to get accurate dimensions.

You will need: a prefabricated shower, electric drill, plumb level, tape measure, caulk, screws, hole saw, shower/tub adhesive, tape, pencil, leather work gloves, hammer, work boots and an adjustable wrench. Protective eye-wear is also highly advisable (wear when using power tools.)

Getting the prefab shower into position can be the tricky part. You will need to fit it through an existing doorway or an outside window. In some instances, part of an exterior wall may have to be removed in order to get the unit inside; seek professional advice first if required.

Because prefabricated shower stalls have watertight walls, cement-based backer boards are not needed.

It is advisable to install insulation between the studs in order to reduce plumbing noise.

When drilling holes in the unit's walls to fit the faucet and shower arm, measure carefully in advance and always wear protective eye-wear when drilling.

Position parts carefully and attach the unit to the framing. The drain piece, shower handle, escutcheon, and shower-head all need to be fitted correctly to prevent leakages and future problems. All seams need to be caulked efficiently and a thorough checking of any leaks needs careful attention; later corrections to any plumbing faults can be difficult to carry out.

Finally, finish the walls and fit a shower door or curtain bar. It is vital that you seal the joints between the bathroom walls and floor and shower enclosure with a good quality silicone! Installing water-resistant drywall around the top edge of the shower stall can be a wise, long-term investment; tiling the top edge is also a great idea as it will likely last a lot longer than wallpaper or paintwork.

If you aren't adept in skills like demolition, plumbing and drywalling, you may be best served by employing a qualified professional to carry out these tasks.

As a final reminder, installing prefabricated shower stalls can be quite fiddly and time-consuming. The plumbing especially has to be completed with some expertise in order to have a sound unit. Yet having said all this, a successful shower installation is achievable if you take your time, check well for any leaks and consult an expert for advice if the need arises.

Good luck!

For articles by the same author, on a variety of subjects, please visit: http://fatherspirit-mydailybread.blogspot.com [~ MY DAILY BREAD ~ ; Telling, not selling!]

Six Tips For Decks Built to Last

You too can build a deck.

All you need is a few dozen screws, nails, bolts, posts, gravel, stain, thinner, drill, hammer, measuring tape. This article offers some tips about how to build a deck that is strong, economical and comes up to the owners expectations.

Tip #1

Doing things the old-fashioned way may not always be the best idea. Many good software packages offer help in designing your deck. Their services may include alternative designs, list of materials, tools that are needed, measurements and sometimes even building rules.

Tip #2

Once you have carefully planned it out, you need to get materials. There are several newer options available besides pine, cedar and rosewood trees. Manufacturers offer other materials that look and feel very much like wood. These materials are cost effective as they require less maintenance worries and are stronger and less subject to damage.

Tip #3

It is important that the deck be strongly founded. You may want to get professional help if you don't have the tools and skills to level prepare ground, create good concrete pier holes and pour concrete. You must then apply vertical anchors at the appropriate time.

Tip #4

Building codes in most localities determine the required distance between support piers. Since most lumber comes in 8 foot or 12 foot lengths, making support distances equal to or less than that leads to fewer cuts.

Tip #5

In most cases, ledger boards lay up against the house to support the joists (support beams under the walking surface). If it is moved away from the wall, it can prevent corrosion by moisture.

Tip #6

Prefer screws and bolts over nails. This is because screws last longer and work better. Nails on the other hand rust pretty soon. This obviously will lead to the weakening of connections of the deck.

Adam Peters loves writing for websites on many consumer subjects. Learn more about patio sun rooms and six tips for decks built to last at http://www.allsunrooms.com/enclosures.html

Melatonin: Double-barreled Weapon against Alzheimer's Already in Your Bathroom Cabinet

Melatonin, commonly used to combat jet lag, has been around as a supplement almost 50 years, but researchers around the world have only recently identified it as a powerful weapon in the fight against Alzheimer's disease.

Their findings?

Melatonin may help prevent Alzheimer's disease by clearing the brain of the tangles and plaques typical of Alzheimer's disease and by acting as a potent antioxidant in the brain.

Melatonin can ease sleep disruption and sundowning in Alzheimer's victims, according to recently published studies.

Antioxidant and Protective Properties

Able to pass through the blood/brain barrier, melatonin is one of nature's most powerful antioxidants. Researchers have found that it combats the oxidative stress that is linked to Alzheimer's disease.

Sundowning

In Argentina researchers studied the effects of melatonin with identical twins suffering from Alzheimer's disease. They found that melatonin significantly reduced the symptoms of sundowning in the twin who received the hormone.

Sundowning, a common symptom in Alzheimer's disease, gets its name because it usually occurs around sundown. Alzheimer's victims often display increased agitation and disorientation during the late afternoon or early evening.

I've always kept a supply of melatonin, says Dr. Phyllis Staff, a psychologist whose father had Alzheimer's disease. I used it for many years to combat jet lag, but I didn't realize it could help my father.

For years, at dusk, Dad would put on his cap and jacket and head out the door to go home.' A couple of times he made it out to the street unnoticed. My mother and I are grateful to a compassionate police force that picked him up, but it would have been better if we had known that melatonin can help stop sundowning.

What is melatonin?

Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain during dark and dissipated by sunlight. Scientists are learning that it not only regulates sleep and wakefulness in humans but has a number of additional functions as well.

Largely ignored by pharmaceutical companies because they cannot patent natural substances, melatonin supplements are inexpensive and readily available over-the-counter in drugstores. They are commonly available in 1 Mg. and 3 Mg. doses. These doses are consistent with those administered in most the research studies reviewed in preparation of this article. However, in certain Alzheimer's cases, stronger doses may be required. You MUST check with your healthcare provider on whether to use melatonin and in what amounts.

How is melatonin linked to Alzheimer's disease?

Autopsies have shown a much lower than normal level of melatonin in the brains of Alzheimer's patients. This, researchers believe, accounts for the difficulties in sleeping and waking experienced by many sufferers.

Potential side effects?

Users should be alert to three significant side effects that may occur when taking melatonin. These include:

Grogginess

If daytime grogginess occurs, check with your healthcare provider to reduce the dose or stop taking the hormone altogether.

Decrease in Sex Drive

Melatonin appears to reduce the function of human gonads. Thus, women who are pregnant and those who wish to become pregnant should NOT take melatonin.

Interaction with pharmaceutical agents.

Melatonin interacts with many pharmaceutical compounds including antidepressants, blood pressure medications, blood-thinning medications, nonsteroidial anti-inflammatory drugs, and others. If you are taking medications, you should discuss potential interactions and side effects with your healthcare provider before adding melatonin to your routine.

How can you use melatonin safely?

1. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine if melatonin may be beneficial in your case.

This report is available on AlzheimersFree.com as a downloadable Acrobat file. Print it out to use when you consult with your healthcare provider before you begin taking melatonin or give it to an Alzheimer's patient. The Acrobat file includes a list of current studies used in preparation of the article.

2. Once you begin to use melatonin, keep a diary of daily reactions. Include dosage, side effects, and reactions for sleep patterns and sundowning, if appropriate. Share this diary with your healthcare provider so she can adjust the dosage properly.

Phyllis Staff is a research psychologist and the daughter of a victim of Alzheimers disease.

My dad, a victim of Alzheimer's disease, suffered regularly with 'sundowning', says Dr. Staff. "I wish I'd known there was a simply strategy I could use to help him."

Visit us at http://www.AlzheimersFree.com for the latest research on the prevention of Alzheimers disease and other dementias.

Why Hire a Paint Contractor - Home Remodeling

Often the best option a homeowner will have when remodeling their house is to hire a contractor to do the work for them. This way they will get professional work at a good price and will not stress over the project, as many homeowners choose to do the work themselves and find themselves stressing out over it. When the homeowner is left to relax or focus on other projects, they often feel good about the remodel and the experience becomes a positive one.

A paint contractor is trained thoroughly in the craft of exterior painting and is motivated to provide their clients with the best work possible. This often translates into an excellent finished product that the homeowner can be proud of. Not only will the project go by quickly, but the homeowner will sacrifice no quality with the hastiness a paint contractor can finish the project. Being experienced in the field, contractors are skilled at finished the project in a timely manner and with excellent craftsmanship. Homeowners are happy they called a contractor, as many have had negative experiences when trying to take on large home improvement projects alone.

When the homeowner goes at it alone, they often sacrifice the finished product. While they may enjoy the outdoors and working with their hands, what they get in the end is seldom worth the perks exterior painting may offer some homeowners. Even if they get the chance to bond with friends and relatives while they assist them in their remodel, being unsatisfied with the final product often does not make the experience worth it. The finished product is usually what the homeowner cares most about, so this is what should be considered when considering the options the homeowner has for exterior home painting.

Many paint contractors offer homeowners with affordable work that will leave them completely satisfied. Homeowners go into a project with a vision of what it will look like when finished. When the final product is far from what they had envisioned, they often feel unsatisfied or annoyed. The closer it is to what they had imagined, the more pride they will feel. When homeowners are left to their own devices, they often come up short of what they are striving for. A contractor often is the key to getting what they want and finding a formula that works for the project.

Realizing the value of a paint contractor is often the first step in hiring their services. Professionalism brings a good deal of confidence to the jobsite, confidence that often means excellent craftsmanship and beautiful results. Not only do homeowners get to rest easy knowing their project is in good hands, they are also able to focus their attention on projects that may require less professional attention. This can make a remodel move faster or can allow the homeowner to save money in other areas that may not be so complicated that they require the work of a contractor. The benefits a paint contractor brings to the jobsite are enormous and homeowners should surely take advantage of their skill.

More information on http://www.ultimaterollercoaster.com/resources/college-works-painting/ College Works Painting is just a click away.

Bee Stings - Treatment and Prevention

While Spring is a time for blooming flowers and warm sunny days, it's also a time for bees and bee stings.

For many people, bee stings are nothing more than a painful irritation that passes within a few hours. However, for more than two million Americans who suffer from bee sting allergies, the reaction from a bee sting can be far more intense. Symptoms of bee allergies may include hives, itching, difficulty breathing, low blood pressure and in a few cases, anaphylactic shock.

Because traditional insect repellents won't prevent bee stings, it's important to know what does work and how to treat bee stings, from the minor to the severe.

Prevent bee stings by taking the following precautions:
Don't wear brightly colored clothes or floral prints as bees are attracted to vibrant colors.
Bees are also attracted to sweet scents, so avoid wearing fragrances, lotions, shampoos and cosmetics.
Sweet food and drinks are well-known for enticing bees, especially canned soda drinks. The tiny insect will climb in the opening and may sting if someone unwittingly takes a sip.
Always wear shoes outdoors especially when walking in the grass. Bees are attracted to the white clover weed that is found in most lawns.
Bees are not typically aggressive insects and their stingers are used in defense. If a bee flies a little too-close-for-comfort, just hold still. Quick movement may frighten the bee into stinging.

Minor bee stings are easily treated by removing the stinger immediately. Next, place a cold compress on the infected area. If minor itching occurs, use antihistamine or calamine lotion. Applying ammonia, or a paste of baking soda and water to the affected area, will produce a similar result. While swelling may not be noticeable until the next day, most pain caused by bee stings will dissipate within two hours.

If more serious reactions occur such as vomiting, dizziness or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical care. You should also seek immediate treatment if there are ten or more stings. Or, if the sting is located in the nose or mouth as swelling may inhibit breathing.

So this Spring, enjoy the great outdoors and take time to smell the flowers. Just give the busy bees their space.

Dr. Mark Cesta is the Medical Director of Emergency Health Centre at Willowbrook. If you have a medical question for Dr. Cesta, contact him at mcesta@theehc.com.
http://www.emergencyhealthcentre.com

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Tips on Housebreaking Your Puppy

You have just brought the newest member of your family home, which is a cute adorable puppy, and now the fun begins. Now you are the loving caretaker of this tiny puppy and part of your responsibilities is to make sure your puppy becomes housebroken. You may think that this will be a long-drawn out process but actually itmay notbe hard as you think.

You should always have your new puppy seen by a veterinarian before you set up your housebreaking schedule. They can guide you on when your type of breed of dog needs to be fed and how many times a day. They will also be able to tell you if your pup is healthy and ready to be housebroken.

The most important thing is to establish is a routine. A routine will reduce the amount of accidents and will also let you and your pup knows when it's time to go outside.There is a general rule that says: for every month a puppy is old, it can wait one hour to go outside. This means that if your puppy is three months old, he should be able to wait three hours before having to go outside. That is only a generalguideline thoughand all puppies are different. For the first couple of days you should try to take him or her out every two hours. If you set up a regular schedule and follow some of the tips described below; your new puppy will be housebroken in no time. Watch for the signs that your pup needs to go outside and relieve themselves. Observe the puppy's behavior and actions and soon you will be able to tell when they need to go to the bathroom. Some of the signs to watch for are: the pup is sniffing at the door, turning in circles while sniffing, and scratching, standing or barking at the door. These are all signs that they are looking for a place to do their business.

You should always take your new puppy outside the first thing in the morning before anything else and it should also be the last thing you do before you retire to bed. Most young puppies are not able to go all night without having to go to the bathroom. While they are in the toilet training process you should have a small room or area which they can sleep and be contained when you are not there or at night when you are asleep. Make sure that it is a place that you can clean up easily, such as a tiled bathroom floor. You can lay down newspaper or purchase special puppy pads which are absorbent. Never scold or hit your puppy when they have an accident. When they go outside and relieve themselves make sure you praise them and tell them what a good puppy they are. You should also try to remember never to leave your pup unattended in the house or outside. If the pup can't be under your watchful eyes they should be contained in their designated room or penned up in an outside area.

Any place in your home that your pup has messed in needs to be thoroughly cleaned. You should use something that will take away the odour. Dogs and puppies will usually mess again in an area if they can smell the lingering odour of their last accident. Try to set up a regular feeding schedule and take away any food or water about two hours before putting themto bedfor the night. This will decrease accidents and make it easier for the pup to last through the night. Always take the pup outside after they have finished eating.

Another way that people have found to train their puppy to be housebroken is to use a method called "crate training". To use this method you would put your pup in a dog crate or dog kennel which is especially made for animals. You would put the pup in their crate at night and when you were going to be away for a short period of time. Most dogs won't mess in the area where they sleep and the crate gives them the feeling of being in a small cave or home. Using a crate is a good way to help your new pup to become housebroken. Dogs and puppies usually like crates because it gives them a special place to be alone and feel secure.

Remember to have some patience and understanding. The newest member of your family is just learning all the rules and wants to please you more than anything. If you set up a routine and a regular feeding time everything will run smoother and the pup will understand and quickly become housebroken. Soon all the extra time and effort used to help your pup become housebroken will pay off and you will have many years ahead of you to enjoy their company.

It is always a good thing to look into buying dog insurance for your new puppy. This will help you be prepared in case your pet does develop a disease or has an unexpected accident. Pet insurance can give you peace of mind and also help pay for unexpected veterinarian bills.

So please visit us to see how we can help protect your pet - you can buy online easily too at Pet Insurance by Animal Friends or simply call our friendly staff if you prefer on 0844 55 70 300; the policies won't cost you more and you won't be disappointed!

Basement Bar Help

Building a basement bar in your own home could be a nice way to utilize that extra cash you have hanging around. It will certainly gain you popularity points from your friends when you have them over and entertain them with a real fully functional bar.

This is not easy work though. Once you decide to build a bar in your basement, you have to commit your time, energy and money. Don't be scared, you don't have to be a millionaire to own a bar in your basement. It will soon be worth it when you finish and admire the newest addition to your home.

First things first, you have to make sure that you actually have a basement or a similar room that you use as a basement. Since you are going to be having parties or get-togethers in your new basement bar, it would be better if the basement is in a different level from all other rooms to limit the noise. It is important to note that you have enough space for the kind of bar that you want. You have a choice of building something cozy and personal or go all out for and build something for big events.

Once you have established your space for your bar, you have to deal with the dirty work. For a bar to function properly, you must have a good plumbing system, wiring framework and lighting.

There are two main areas that require plumbing work to be done:

- Hot and cold water to the bar sink
- Drainage for the bar sink
- Toilet

If you already have your washer and dryer in the basement then all you have to do is tap the water source and to bring it over to your sink. The drainage might be a little more complicated but it is just as important, you don't want your basement to be flooded. The toilet is actually an option. You can opt to go up the stairs each time you need to use the toilet to save you hassle from building one in the basement.

There are five major wiring jobs to be done in the basement:

- Electrical (outlets, lighting switches, wall switches)
- Audio
- Telephone
- Video
- Computer Network

Lighting is important to create the right ambiance. Lighting in your bar could be broken down into groups:

- Bar
- Stairs
- Seating area
- Play area

After this, you can move on with the formation of your dream basement bar.

Turn your basement into the ultimate hangout with friends. Basement remodeling is easy with the latest basement bar ideas online.

Hotels, Motels Green Bathroom Remodeling Nationwide

Hotels/motels that remodel their bathrooms by going green are following the hotel industry's move towards environmental sustainability. Hotels/Motels therefore, have understood that going green means replacing fixtures with water or energy saving appliances. What many hotels and motels owners are beginning to learn is that going green in their bathroom remodeling project, includes refinishing, recycling and the use of recycled materials.

Hotels/Motels green remodeling has other benefits or advantages apart from saving money. Investors that are looking to buy a chain of hotels or motels or even those looking to buy a single hotel or motel are definitely looking to buy ones that have efficient fixtures and appliances installed in their bathrooms.

Hotels and Motels use of resources

Hotels and motels are in general bigger than average buildings and the use a lot of resources. It takes a lot of resources to build hotels and an equally bigger and constant resources to maintain - heating and cooling, use of lots of water. No hotels can function without water. Hotels need water for laundry, for showering in the bathrooms, flushing the toilets, washing your hands, and then dishwashing. That is why any hotel that considers bathroom remodeling, thinks about green bathroom remodeling and it's advantage of saving water.

Additionally, the hotel industry use a lot of energy. The annual energy bill for the hospitality industry is $3.7 billion a year on energy. Energy savings alone is driving a lot of hotels to green bathroom remodeling. They see the benefits and embrace the advantages of water and energy savings they get from when their bathrooms are remodeled for green living.

Hotels see green in green bathroom remodeling. Whether the owners of hotels or motels believe that the civilities of their hotels have an impact on the environment or not, they see "green" the money savings in water and energy resources.

Green bathroom remodeling save hotels and motels money:

Replace showerheads to save water bills:
During a tight economy, those hotels that are remodeling in order to sell their hotels or add value to their property are discovering that a very inexpensive way to save water in their hotels bathrooms is to replace their shower heads with water saving ones. The performance of a good water head should be the same as a normal shower head. Cheap one dribble water which defeats the whole purpose of water savings.

Replace older toilets with water saving toilets:
There have been a lot of advancement in the choice of toilets that save water. You can choose a pressurized toilet which fits well over where your old toilet sits. Pressurized toilets cost more than their standard counterpart and some people claim that they give some problems. On the other hand, dual flush toilets which are popular in Europe are showing up in more and more hotels bathrooms that are using green remodeling to water in their total bathroom remodeling project. It estimated that in one year, a dual flush toilet will save a family where four people are using the bathroom about 15000 gallons of water.

Hotels bathtub refinishing/tub re-glazing and sink refinishing saves money and the environment:

There are plenty of hotels, retirement homes, nursing homes or bed and breakfast inns that have antique claw foot bathtubs in their bathrooms. Refinishing these antique claw foot bathtubs preserve their beauty, saves hotels plenty of money and benefit's the environment. Sink refinishing saves the landfills and puts some "green" in the pockets of hotel owners. Bathtub refinishing saves bathtubs from going into the landfills while saving hotels over 80% over the cost of replacement. And when hotels add our volume discount, the savings are even bigger. Green bathtub refinishing is green in your bank account.

Hotels green bathroom remodeling uses recycled materials

Just like you find recycled materials that can be used when you remodel other rooms in other parts of the hotel, there are also building materials that are made of recycled materials tile; vanities and flooring. Hotels that use recycled fixtures save money and conserve natural resources.

Not every bathtub refinishing company or even every green bathroom remodeling company or business understands the import of our activities on our environment.

Not many know the fixtures, processes, and proper installation procedures that will save you money, time and the environment.

Wilson Ukah, owns Refinishing Stars, a bathtub refinishing company serving homeowners in Atlanta, Chattanooga, Nashville and Knoxville. Refinishing Stars, refinishes bathtubs, sinks, and countertops for hotels and motels nationwide. Wilson can be reached at http://www.refinishingstars.com or sales@refinishingstars.com

Building a New House!

Building a house is a once in a life time project to most. The right choice in design can make a house durable and maintenance free. The choice of materials used and professional services employed in constructing the house determines the cost and quality of construction. Same day payday loans help you with draw short term small cash and build a new house or revamp an old one..

The following factors need a careful consideration while building a new house as they determine the cost of the project- type of foundation, type of super structure, and kind of wood used.

Foundation: The building foundation varies with the soil condition. An ideal soil condition needs minimum investment at this stage. The soil needs to be hard so that it takes the weight of the structure with minimal structure below the floor.

Each soil type behaves differently when structures are built on it. In some places, the soil is loose and cannot take the load for several feet until a hard soil or rock is hit. One of the cost effective foundation is pile foundation. Some plots need soil treatment like soil compression to make them strong.

Appropriate foundation type is chosen to suit soil of different types.

Load bearing walls with red bricks or table bricks is the most popular when the soil is hard. The surface could be soft but as it is dug deeper soil is found to be hard. The house built on this type of soil does not require any concrete structure to support it from below the surface. The wall is broad at bottom of the foundation and becomes thinner as it grows up. Typically building structures have ground plus two floors.

Sized stone masonry foundation suits hard soil like red soil that can carry a load of ground and two floors. The obvious disadvantage is that the structure cannot be altered as every wall bears the load above it. When the soil is loose for considerable depth before the hard soil is hit, the load being walls is not the right solution. A super structure with concrete and beams are built first and walls are filled in subsequently.

Concrete column with footing is the solution when room sizes need to be altered without damage to the structure as a whole. These columns have footings which are again concrete structure extensions to the column. These footings distribute the total weight of the building to the earth.

Pile foundation is used in surfaces which have loose soil with very less load bearing capacity. Like other foundation types, pile foundations are used for load bearing and load transferring systems. Components of the foundations are the pile cap and the piles. Materials used for piles are typically steel and concrete. Piles made from these materials are driven, drilled or jacked into the ground and connected to pile caps. Avail same day loans and get an instant cash for your short term needs.

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Basement Bathroom Remodeling Improves Your Home's Value!

Did you know that there's a relatively simple, not terribly expensive way to increase the value of your home without expanding the exterior footprint? You can get more livable space and more equity, simply by finishing your basement. This is much less intensive than many other home improvement project, and homeowners who decide to do a basement finishing project get as much as eighty-five percent of their investment back in many cases. One important element to any finished basement is the bathroom. Basement bathroom remodeling projects are excellent for just about any home and just about any family. If you're living in an older single family residence with just one bathroom, adding another one is one of the best choices you can make.

People love the space and comfort that a finished basement has to offer. Any basement can become a rec room, entertainment room, extra or guest bedroom, library, office, and even your own personal fitness center. You just have to decide how your finished basement will best benefit. Remember to plan with care, and don't forget to include a basement bathroom remodeling project along with your other remodeling plans. No one wants to have to run up and down stairs whenever they need to use the bathroom, especially if there's something going on in the basement. Making your basement bathroom friendly, usable and accessible is important and will increase convenience while adding value.

It's not as hard as you think to add an extra room to your basement. You can even do it yourself if you happen to have the required experience and knowledge. If you know how to do part of the work, but aren't trained as an electrician or plumber, that doesn't mean your basement bathroom remodeling ideas have to fall by the wayside, either. Just contact a professional, talk to him or her about your plans, and have only the work you don't know how to do done by a pro. Remember that in some areas, local codes may require you to have your work signed off on by professionals, or even to have the major work done by someone else. It's important to know as much as you can about code in your area before you even begin to plan. That'll help you avoid legal entanglements later.

Some of the things you'll need to do for any basement bathroom remodeling project include using water resistant paints and materials, making sure the flooring is something that won't attract moisture, mold, and mildew, and being certain you're doing the plumbing and drains correctly. Installing a bathroom in a basement that's located below the drains can be tricky, often requiring use of special fixtures or additional mechanisms. This doesn't have to cost a lot, but you should know what you need well in advance. That way, you won't find yourself wasting time or money by using a solution that won't work for your situation.

A basement bathroom remodeling project should be part of any finished basement. It'll make using the finished space much more pleasant, and it'll add even more to your home's value. Since this is one of the least expensive renovations you can do in your home, there's no reason not to take on a well planned basement bathroom project. It could really make a big difference in your home.

Thomas Johnsen is the Author and Leading Expert on Basement Bathroom Remodel and the creator of the publication Basement Bathroom Remodeling. Visit the site now to find the easy-to-understand step-by-step guides on basement bathroom construction available online today.

Improving Your Health with a Steam Shower

The evolution of bathroom design has taken on a new dimension with all technological advances in both bath and shower innovations. Not until the last decade daily showers were a quick means of cleansing the body, spending mere minutes in the shower feeling more like a chore rather than an enjoyable and relaxing experience.

According to health and wellness experts finding comfort in the shower by taking the time to unwind and relieve the body and mind of everyday stresses allows the body to replenish and re-energize. With more people living and leading hectic lifestyles in trying to find a balance between full-time work and raising a family often lends itself to insurmountable levels of stress causing physical and emotional fatigue. Until recently the only way to escape and relax was to take a trip to the spa where you could enjoy the soothing comfort of a steam shower or whirlpool bath.

With so many new shower designs available in todays market, bathroom suppliers have seen an increase in shower purchases from electric showers to steam showers. Modern day trends depicts that more homeowners are transforming their existing bathrooms into home spa retreats, but not only for the sole purpose to repose. For centuries steam has been used for medicinal purposes to heal a number of ailments. Since the use of heat and steam helps to soothe and relax tense muscles, arthritis suffers benefit from the use of steam showers by providing relief to sore joints.

Along with the many other added benefits of steam showers, medical professionals say that steam stimulates the lymphatic system increasing blood circulation and speeds up the metabolism which can aid in weight loss and improve the overall look of the body. Among the positive therapeutic affects that a steam shower has is on the immune system causing the body to produce more white blood cells. The increase in cell count is the first defense in fighting off the common cold as well as other diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, influenza, allergies and pneumonia. Similar to a small vaporizer that emits steam into the air, steam showers serve up the same home-based solutions in order to relieve a sore throat, excessive coughing, nasal congestion, and for clearing up fluid in the lungs. Steam showers are also known to flush out the toxins and other impurities from the body through sweat glands which can have a positive affect on the skins appearance; making it appear more youthful and by adds moisture to dry skin.

Unlike conventional showers, one of the great features of a steam shower is that they are one compact unit and can installed wherever there is a water supply making them much more versatile and are leak proof. The two-fold benefits of a luxurious steam shower provide therapeutic relief on the body and can add a modern elegant look to your bathroom.

Written by Shelley Murphy on behalf of www.victoriaplumb.com an online retailer of bathroom furniture, steam showers, whirlpool spa baths and bath related products serving the United Kingdom.

Shelley Murphy brings with her over 10 years of Search Engine Optimization and e-marketing strategies to web based businesses. Holding two BAs in English and Journalism Communications her writing skills have been a great asset for both onsite writing and monthly newsletters publications.

Saturday, August 29, 2009

Extend the Life of Your Patio With an Outdoor Heater

The concept is pretty cool. Provide your guests with an outdoor heat source that extends the comfort range of your patio or deck during cooler evening hours and give you the use of your outdoor living spaces well into the fall and even winter if you live in a mild climate area.

These outdoor patio heaters are large, usually over 6 feet tall, and need a heat source such as propane. The best ones provide even heating a full 360 degrees around it so guests can be gathered in many groups around the unit and still be warm.

I wouldn't say they're incredibly stylish, although if you have metal decor like a hanging star or garland or perhaps metal wall sconces then the patio heater will at least look like it belongs. But how can you argue with a 6 foot cylinder pumping out 40,000 BTU's?

They cost about $250 or so, depending on which store you buy it in and which sales you capture. They are obviously more popular during the winter months and are nearly impossible to find in a retail store during the summer unless you catch an inventory clearance event. Our best advice is to buy one in late winter or early spring when they'll probably be on sale and then use it the following fall.

When you're shopping for a patio heater you need to consider these things:

1. the size of your patio or deck
2. how much space you actually need to heat
3. if you want a large fixed heater or a portable one
4. if you care about the fuel source, such as propane, electric, or natural gas
5. how you'll protect it when not in use.

The issue of protection is often easily solved with a patio heater cover. In fact many of them come with a free cover as incentive to get you to buy.

For more information on propane patio heaters and electric patio heaters please visit our website.

Shower Curtains - Do We Actually Need Them?

Shower Curtains are either a necessary item for our bathrooms or just another added piece of decoration, but do we actually need them ? The answer simply put is Yes, shower curtains provide a no nonsense approach to keeping our bathrooms and other wet areas typically clean and dry. They can be used as a decorative piece or alternatively we can use them purely and simply as a functional curtain.

The current trend towards shower curtains is now to basically use either a polyester or nylon curtain, this type of material will endure high temperature moisture and will handle as much washing in a machine as is necessary. A little eucalyptus oil in the wash will do wonders. Many new shower curtains come in a vast array of designs including plain voile or to the more dramatic contemporary designs.

Themed shower curtains are also very popular as this enables you to create a specific feel within the bathroom for a short period of time, for example Christmas or Easter, Thanksgiving day, they are relatively inexpensive for what they are and are usually packaged as a ready made item. When purchasing new shower curtains always ensure that you have allowed extra on the drop of the curtain to make sure that it is covering the area completely, there is nothing worse than a half masted shower curtains.

These shower curtains can either be installed on a rod using rod and rings, or alternatively they can be installed a specialized curtain rod using either pinch pleat or pencil pleat curtains, for my information read our "how to make curtains - includes secret fabric formula" tutorial. I have seen many shower curtains in my clients homes that have basically transformed a tired bathroom into a place of brightness and atmosphere.

One major factor you should consider when purchasing new shower curtains is to ask the salesperson for advice, there are many new fabrics that are now being used and some of these are mildew resistant, this type of material has been chemically treated in the manufacturing process to reduce the growth of mould. If you are looking a natural shower curtain than hemp is what you should choose, this is now becoming more and more available in many different styles and shapes. Hemp shower curtains do require more washing but the overall softer look is well worth it.

So remember when choosing your next shower curtains always consider what material you will use, the color or theme and most importantly the size of the area it needs to cover.

Latest Shower curtains info

Contractor Manners For Customers to Give to Their Builder

Often custom home builders will have something written up or a prepared speech to give their clients at the start of the process that is designed to get everyone on the same page. It is an orientation intended to set up guidelines of etiquette such as when it is o.k. to call or it might include tips like not talking on and on with the workers. It probably includes a rough time line and perhaps a list of small problems that may occur but need not be made into big ones. This kind of reality meeting can go a long ways in eliminating future frustrations and bringing expectations down to earth. Simply put, it is a pound of prevention.

For the builder, it helps insure the freedom to run their business as they see fit. This is fair, since the builder is running a business. It is also beneficial to the customer, giving them a guide about how the builder expects them to interact.

While the customer is usually not experienced with the custom building process, they also have the right to present the builder with their own set of guidelines designed to orientate the builder with what they expect from them during the building process. My list is the product of 40 years involvement in the home building field starting out as a young laborer for my contractor parents, then as a sub contractor and finally as a home builder for nearly 20 years. I've never seen a customer present such a guideline but I have always thought both parties would do well starting out with one.

1) Do not talk derogatorily about us to people in your office, your subs, the lenders or anyone else. The truth is that many people are difficult to work with and so it follows that people having their home built are often such types. Additionally, the home building process involves a lot of money, emotions and expectations on the part of the customers which can make even polite and reasonable people not so polite and reasonable.The thing I have seen over and over is builders putting a difficult client into their mental "These Guys Are Idiots" file and commence an ongoing dialogue with the office staff, their subs and anyone who will listen about how hard these customers are to work with. The builder is really being unprofessional and seeking sympathy rather than doing the work to figure out how to make the customer happy. If they only want to work for really nice people they need to move to Mayberry.

Talking behind anyone's back at any time is unwise, but in the custom home process it is especially foolish because it creates negativity around a very important undertaking. The worst part is that builders, like every one, think they can get away with it when there is no way a customer will not pick up the negative attitude the builder has spread around concerning them during the long and socially intense
building process.

2) We need constant updating, reassurance and edification. This really is not too much to ask from the builder. While the customer has to be reasonable and not call five times a day, they need to have questions answered. Often it is in the best interest of all concerned, like when the home owner spots a mistake that might be easy to fix the next day but very difficult after a week's progress. Good builders understand the customer has a huge stake in the project and should not be left in the dark. One suggestion is to use emails. They lend themselves to none intrusive and thought out communication, and they leave a record as to what was actually said.

3) Answer your cell when we call or get back within 30 minutes. Everyone has caller I.D. and they know how to use it. Too often busy and somewhat rude people abuse it by using it to screen calls when they are not in the mood to talk to a particular person. It is fair to take a few minutes to listen to a message and then prepare for a conversation. The main thing is to be available and not evasive because this builds distrust and frustration.

It is a good idea to set up times when calls are welcome, and only go outside of those parameters for emergencies. It also fair to have the office staff sometimes return calls when only a simple answer is required.

4) View us like they do at Sears or anywhere else I spend my money. The building process is very involved and drawn out, but basically it is the same as patronizing your favorite convenience store or grocery store. You do business there because you chose to and you get what you want and are treated with respect.

If a builder is not professional, they often lose sight of the fact that they are in business to provide a service and that the customer chose them to provide it. This comes from the fact that building a home takes months and involves thousands of dollars and a million decisions. It is easy to lose sight of the simplicity of the relationship in such a complex undertaking.

5) Please don't roll your eyes when we ask dumb questions or want to make changes. The builder knows in advance the home owner is going hit him with lots of both. What you are asking for in advance is patience and forgiveness. In the first place, there really is no such thing as a dumb question and you certainly have as much right to ask whatever you want as anyone. In the second place, concerning changes, everyone has the right to change their mind about prior decisions. The key here is to understand they cost time and money, and are some times a pain in the rear. But as long as you are willing to pay for them, the builder should be politely accommodating.

6) I'll try to see your side if you try to see mine. This is really the key to working through the myriad of decisions and complications of the custom home building process. If you want to enjoy the experience and wind up with the home of your dreams then you have got to be mature and fair and pick a builder that will treat you the same.

As you probably have surmised, the above list is really just common sense and common courtesy. Most builders are professional enough and experienced enough to not need any such reminders. However, I am continually amazed at the number of custom home builders that either load their plates to full and forget their manners or never learned any in the first place. Edit this list or add to it , but present some version of it at the beginning. If they react with an open mind, then stick with them. If they react defensively, then you know you have a problem.

Craig Swanson is a second generation home builder in Spokane, Washington. to learn more about him or his company, Craig's Building Services, go to http://spokanevalleyscoop.com

If it Doesn't Make Sense to Sell it Might Be a Good Idea to Remodel

Money. It is becoming the most commonly used word in today's economy. How much? Can I afford it? What is the wisest use of the dollars I have? All words being used around the kitchen table as American citizens are struggling to cope with the failures of every facet of the finances that control our economy. As we see our tax dollars being gobbled up for bailing out those who did not use financial prudence or responsibility as CEO's on Wall Street, the banking industry, and the automobile companies, protecting what little money or investments we have is the average citizen's main concern.

Homeowner's are in a special quandary. Their homes are usually the largest investment that they own. The uncertainty of the housing market combined with the banking industry's lack of moving forward to use their bail out money to make loans available leaves homeowners with precious few choices. Many are opting for renovating their existing homes rather than trying to sell; thereby accomplishing two things: living in a home better suited for their needs while waiting for the housing market to stabilize and/or once again becoming a seller's market. Others are left with the option of either renovating in order to compete with the millions of homes for sale or lose most or all of their equity and simply selling for the best price they can get.

A quick look at several of HGTV's most popular renovation gives us the right answer. It is always worthwhile to upgrade your largest investment: your home. These shows also give a proper perspective on how much to spend where in order to get your money back when you do decide to sell. Any renovation, large or small, that adds value to your selling price can be accomplished with the right guidance from a reputable builder who will keep you on track of doing what must be done at a cost that will give you a profit, sometimes even double the amount you spent, when you sell.

To get the biggest bang for your buck, upgraded kitchens and bathrooms are first on the list. Functional and luxurious kitchens and bathrooms steal the show and, just like first impressions coloring what follows behind, the homeowner who wisely spends his money in these areas is certain to get a huge return on every dollar spent. Flooring and curb appeal are number two and three to grab the buyer's attention. Cosmetic changes, like paint and wallpaper; even knocking out a wall to make a room larger also add to the first impression eye appeal so necessary to entice a buyer to purchase your particular home.

However, first things first. Decide what you need to renovate and the budget you can afford. Then do your research and find a reputable builder in your area. The Internet can help you search and narrow down your choices. Your most important key to look for is to make certain the builder is insured and certified. Second, look for a builder with longevity. Any builder who has been in business for 10, 20 even 30 years tells you that they intend to stay in business; and, had happy clients along the way. Another key sign of a quality builder is the fact that they have a website that you can peruse as long and as often as you choose before you ever make contact. This allows you to compare other contractors and make a judgment of whom you want to call. A quality home builder will have a website easy for you to navigate while giving you the information you need to make your decision.

In northern Florida, Davis & Associates Builders Inc owned and operated by Fred Davis, offers quality built homes and renovations at either a guaranteed price or a cost plus basis. Free Estimates available for Contracting needs, please feel free to contact us 24/7 JaxBuild.com

Categorizing Walk-in Tubs and Baths

There are so many things that we see everyday in life and get so used to that we do not even stop to think about them. No one thinks of what goes behind mundane, everyday products. No thought is spared to others who might not be as physically capable as us, for whom even simple activities are pretty difficult. The same is the case with bathtubs. Everybody is so used to getting in and out of them that no one thinks why so many types of walk-in baths and tubs are available. Spare a thought to the physically handicapped or the senior citizens. The elderly cannot get into a bathtub as easily as we do. Stiff joints and arthritis hinder them at every turn. With painful joints, every simple routine becomes an enormous task for those people.

The physically challenged or those suffering from other health related problems too have a tough time getting into or out of the bath. Nowadays at least there are walk-in tubs and baths but imagine a time before this. They had to be carried in and out of the bath! Those who needed support of the wheelchair or had other physical difficulty had to suffer a lot. They needed assistance for even taking a bath.

But thankfully, things have changed now. Now, there are tubs coming into market these days that are designed to make bath easier. They can easily get into a bath and get out of a bath as easily. There are tubs in different sizes. Safety Tubs have been a blessing to those who struggled into and out of bath. These Safety Tubs can fit into any space and come in a variety of sizes. There are walk-in baths of 513 x 303 length and breadth. This size is ideal for normal or traditional sized bathroom. If there is more space and there is preference for a spacious bath tub603 long x 323 wide can be tried. If there are space constrains, walk-in bathtub that are 513 long and 263 wide could be installed.

But this is not all. Apart from the 3 sizes of walk-in tubs, extension kits are also available. This ensures that the tubs can be fitted perfectly into custom spaces and are of required standards. Included in this can be 203 width panel that is a very good fit between the wall and the end of the tub near the wall. This panel can also be adjusted according to needs of the customers.

The wide range of walk-in tubs and baths cater a variety of needs of the people using them. Each person has a different "ideal" bath or tub according to his or her particular problem. The simplest of these are the walk-in showers or baths. These showers or baths are taken in an upright position so the one taking a bath is spared the torture of sitting down and getting up. Walk-in tubs are the other option. They have doors on the side, so there is no reason to struggle in or lift up.

Looking for information about walk-in tubs and showers

Theodor Cartman recommends different types of walk-in tubs and showers as the best option when buying.

Friday, August 28, 2009

Framing Basement Walls Can Provide Warmth and Comfort

If you have any experience at carpentry working with framing basement walls can be fun and save you a lot of money. If you have no or very little experience with carpentry you can still learn with the right desire.

So you have an unfinished basement in your home and would like to create another room like a recreation room or laundry room or basement study you can do it. The first thing you need to do is know there are two areas that you will be framing, the outside walls of your basement and the inside walls to create the rooms within.

The outside walls or perimeter walls are the walls that you can either construct to provide warmth and added comfort or just construct as walls to provide added pleasantness to the basement. Framing Basement Walls to provide warmth and comfort is the best way to go if you plan to use the rooms in the basement as part of your living area.

If you want the basement room to be warm and comfortable, you will need to use 2 X 4 wooded studs for your framing around the perimeter. This will let you use insulation between the studs to provide the warmth required between the outside foundation and the inside wall.

The interior walls will also be constructed of wooden 2 X 4 studs, but normally don't require insulation between the studs. If you want added noise protection adding insulation to the inner walls can help deaden sound.

When you spend time framing basement walls correctly you will have a more functional basement area to add value and comfort to your home.

Looking for ways to have an artful and creative basement wall? Discover practical basement remodeling ideas online and turn cheap basement ideas into dream basements at a budget.

The Different Types of Faucets

There are different ways to ensure that your water bill remains the same or does not go higher. One of these is making sure that your faucets are still working well. You have to check them every so often to see if there are leaks or other problems. A leaky faucet can lead to bigger bill amount. When you notice that your faucet requires replacement, there are different faucet types in the market. On the other hand, if you want to repair your faucet or you need to have it fixed by a plumber, you need to determine its type. This way, it will be easy for the repairman to come up with the perfect repair solution. Since faucets come in many kinds, you have to acquire basic knowledge over each one to help you identify your specific faucet type.

Compression Faucets: The Oldest Type

When it comes to the first faucet types, a compression faucet tops the list. You will be able to distinguish a compression-type of faucet by looking into the handles for the cold and hot water. Closing off the water flow requires you to compress the faucet's washer or tighten its handle. There are lesser households opting to have their kitchen sinks installed with this type of faucet, what with the latest types that are available in the market. These current designs and styles look nicer and have better functionality.

The Unique Movement of Cartridge Faucets

Another type of faucet is the cartridge faucet, which works through a stem cartridge. The stem cartridge is movable in a down and up motion, letting you regulate the flow of the water. You will be able to distinguish this faucet type through the way they operate. It is unlike the movements of other faucet types. If you want to regulate the temperature of the water, all you have to do is turn it from left to right. The two functions of cartridge faucets make them among the unique faucet types in the market.

The Cylindrical Body of Disc Faucets

A disc faucet is considered as the most recent type of a "washerless faucet." It is unlike the ball faucet, which is the first type of washerless faucet types. A disc faucet is distinguished through its single lever. This level is found over a cylindrical-shaped body. It is called as such because of its two discs, which are made from ceramic. These discs are contained within a broad cartridge. The discs slide over one another, in order to regulate the water flow and temperature. Compared to a ball faucet, a disc faucet does not leak all the time.

Ball Faucets: First Washerless Faucets

When it comes to washerless faucet types, a ball faucet is considered as the first type. It is typically installed and utilized for kitchen sinks. It comes with one handle, which moves above the faucet's cap. The shape of the cap is similar to a ball, on top of the spout's base. The disadvantage of ball faucets is the fact that they are prone to leakage more, compared to other faucet types.

Whatever type of waterfall faucet you are looking for, you have two general options. You can either buy it within a local home hardware store or from an online home depot site. Find more information about the same at http://www.vigoindustries.com.

The Parable Of Faith

A man owned a farm with his wife and teenage son.

Shortly before picking season, his son hurt his back playing sports, thus not being able to pick the crops.

A friend said to the man, Isnt it terrible that your son hurt his back and cannot pick the crops?

Perhaps replied the farmer.

During picking season, the farmer had to hire someone to replace his son working the fields.

The friend said Isnt it terrible that you have to spend all this money to get the crops picked?

Perhaps

Shortly after crop season, the farmer lost his farm and had to move into a rented house.

Isnt it terrible that you lost your farm and had to move?

Perhaps

Then, the farmers wife left him for another man.

Isnt it terrible that your wife left you?

Perhaps

Next, his son lost his hand when it got caught in the machinery at the mill where he worked.

Isnt it terrible that your son lost his hand?

Perhaps

Lastly the man was diagnosed with a terminal illness which would certainly kill him.

Isnt it terrible that you have this illness and are going to die?

Perhaps

Finally, the friend asked the farmer, How come each time there is bad news, you simply respond by saying perhaps?

The farmer got quiet for a second and replied:

When my son hurt his back, I went and hired someone to work the fields. One day, there was a terrible accident in which the man was killed. Because of the bad news of my sons hurt back, he is alive today.

After his family sued me, the courts took my farm since I had no insurance. We moved into town and the following spring a tornado hit the old farmhouse, killing everyone inside. Because of the bad news of losing my farm, my family is alive today.

Then, my wife left me for another man. After I got over the grieving, I met and fell in love with a younger woman. After we were married, she blessed me with a daughter. Because of the bad news of my wife leaving, I have a child I otherwise would not have had.

Then my son lost his hand at the mill. At that time, all his friends were called up to the war. Of course, my son could not serve his country, much to his disappointment. However, the bus that was carrying his friends was involved in a horrible crash, killing all on board. Because of the bad news of him losing his hand, my son is still alive today.

And now, I am faced with the bad news of having an illness that will kill me. However, all through my life, what appeared to be bad news was actually a fantastic blessing. After time, I realized that each event was actually God helping me. Because of that, I have no reason to believe that this is any different. Is the fact that I have a disease that will kill me bad news?

Perhaps

Dennis Harting is the Head Coach at Your Rich Life. He is an acclaimed speaker, trainer, and best-selling author. His books include Your Easiest Million and The Ultimate Procrastination Handbook. His programs and more information can be found at http://www.yourrichlifeinc.com

Shopping Online For Your Bathroom Vanity

Shopping online for bathroom vanities and vanity cabinets can be a smart way to remodel your bathroom. Not only will you be able to find more choices than you might in a regular supply store, but you will also be able to compare prices to see if you're getting the best deal possible. However, with these benefits come responsibility on your part to know what you're choosing and whether it's the right fit for you. Here's a primer that will help you find the best cabinet or vanity for your needs - at a great price.

Know your size

The first thing you will want to do is measure the distance from the wall to where you want the front of your vanity to be. Most bathroom vanities can be found in widths of under thirty inches to up to six feet. While you might want bathroom vanities to be larger in order to store more things, this can also cause your bathroom to appear cramped and much smaller than it really is. To help you with your measurement, you may want to find a cardboard box that can simulate the various sizes of bathroom cabinets online in order to get a clear mental picture of what your bathroom might look like once it's installed.

Know the wood color and texture

Just as there are hundreds of bathroom vanities, there are dozens of colors that you can choose from in terms of vanities. Some of the more traditional colors include wood veneers like cherry, maple, oak, and walnut. You can also find natural woods that are merely covered with a shiny sealant. Or you may opt for a glass cabinet or shelving system. You might also want to choose a particular color that falls in line with a theme that you have picked out. No matter what color you choose, you will want to ask for a clear picture of the cabinet first before you actually purchase it. A computer screen can sometimes distort the color that you see on the website.

Know the type of cabinet you want

While it seems fairly obvious what vanity cabinets are, bathroom vanities can range in size, shape, and purpose so you will want to know what's out there before you start shopping. Some of the common types of cabinets include:

" Shelving - This can be open, recessed, surface mounted or be placed in a corner. Choosing shelving means that any items that are stored here will be in plain view of anyone in the bathroom.
" Cabinets - Just like the name, these bathroom cabinets will be fully enclosed with doors of wood, glass or another material.
" Countertops - What type of countertop do you want
" Sink - The vanity that you choose may be determined partly by the type of sink that you want. If you want a vessel sink, you must find a vanity that accommodates that type of sink. If you want an undermount sink, then you should narrow your search to those vanities that have that type of sink.

When you're online

Knowing what the descriptions mean when you're shopping online for websites will allow you to pick the best fit for your needs as well as receive the cabinets that you really wanted. Most online retailers of bathroom vanities and vanity cabinets will have a customer service phone number that you should utilize if you have any questions.

For a site that's as helpful as they are stocked with the cabinets you need and want, go to http://www.discountbathroomvanities.com

Dave Robert is a district sales manager at Discount Bathroom Vanities Publishing, and an avid fixer-upper who's been restoring old houses for more than twenty years. Readers can tap into Dave's knowledge about home remodeling, and kitchen and bathroom design, at: http://www.DiscountBathroomVanities.com

Keep Your Bathroom Safe With a Walk-In Bathtub

Even though it may look harmless, the bathroom is actually one of the most dangerous rooms in your home. There are all kinds of dangers in there, lurking with your cosmetic creams and shower necessities. That's why you can take a few precautions to make your bathroom a little safer space, so you don't have to worry about it. Just follow these simple tips and make your bathroom as safe as possible.

One of the biggest hazards in the bathroom is water on the floor or shower floor when there is no grip. Slipping on a wet bathroom floor or in the shower is a very real danger, so you should make sure that you minimize the likelihood of this accident. Using bath rugs not only protects the floor, but gives you a safe place to step when you are exiting the shower or bathtub. Your bath rug will also capture that stray water that may escape and soak it up, lowering the possibility of you slipping on the floor. In your shower or bathtub, make sure to buy a non-slip waterproof bath mat that you can put on the shower or bathtub floor so that you won't slip while bathing.

Another way to really protect yourself and your loved ones is to take out the old standard bathtub and get a walk-in bathtub instead. The hazard with standard tubs for kids and for those with limited physical mobility is that you have to climb up and over the side of a bathtub to get in. A walk-in bathtub takes this accident waiting to happen balancing act out of the equation, so that you can just walk right in and walk right out of bathtub like you do the shower. If you have an elderly parent at home, a family member with physical limitations, or you don't want to worry about your children slipping on the way in or out of the bathtub, then a walk-in tub is a great investment for your family.

Keep everything organized and put away in your bathroom, because another common accident in the bathroom is tripping over things on the floor or slipping and not being able to grab anything to steady yourself for fear of bringing a bunch of stuff crashing down. A clean and tidy bathroom helps prevent accidents, so make sure to keep your floors clear and your toiletries and necessities organized and put away.

If you would like more information on walk-in bathtubs or any other kind of bath tubs, please visit the Simply Bathtubs website.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

How to Shingle a Roof - Don't Rack Your Brain Or Your Shingles!

If you're looking for "how to shingle roof" information, you've come to the right place. One of your first decisions is which pattern to use. You basically have two choices...

How to Shingle Roof - The Racking Method

Running your shingles straight up the roof in columns, is called "racking". It has been around as long as there have been three-tabs, which were designed to be lined up nice and straight. When they're not, they look just awful and you don't have to be an expert to notice it. Even your neighbor, (who doesn't know anything about roofing), knows those tabs are supposed to be straight!

Racking is the best way to keep them straight. When a shingle is out of alignment, it is easy to spot and can be corrected on the very next column.

But manufacturers' don't like racking. This goes back to the days when quality control of the granule colors wasn't as good as it is now. Slight variations in shading were less apparent when the stair step method was used, so that is what they specified then, and they still do,

Although racking is a common trade practice, it occasionally becomes an issue. Since the manufacturers' installation instructions specify the stair step method, some inspectors demand that they be installed that way. That can be a real problem after the new roof is installed!

Your best bet is check first with your roofing inspector first to see if you can rack them, or just use the stair-step method.

How to Shingle Roof - The Stair Step Method

The problem is that it's tough to keep three-tabs in alignment using the stair step method. Perhaps the best solution is to upgrade to an architectural shingle. Sometimes called "dimensional" or "laminated", these were designed to be installed with the stair step method. There is no fussy vertical alignment to contend with.

And when you consider that architectural shingles are typically larger than the three-tab variety, they are much faster to install. They also last longer because they don't have the side gaps, which are the "Achilles Heal" of three-tabs. That's the first place they wear out.

But just because there is no fussy vertical alignment with the architectural type, it doesn't mean you can install them any which way. Follow the directions on the wrapper when creating the steps rather than making your cuts in a random manner. And be sure to watch your nail placement. You don't want any seams to fall within three inches of the nails in the course below.

Of course, there's a lot more "how to shingle roof" information you need to know. To make the job easier and help you avoid big mistakes, go to: http://www.roofingsecrets.com

John C Bishop is the author of "Roofing Secrets: How to Avoid Leaks and Save Thousands of Dollars!"

Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge - A Great Ecolodge For the Entire Family

One of the many things that impresses me about ecolodges is how they approach construction of the lodge. As it would be rather eco-contrary if a lodge were to cut down trees and prepare a building site instead of working with nature's offerings. At Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge, meticulous care was taken to ensure no trees were cut. All wood came from either naturally fallen trees or tree farms. In all, 18 different species of wood were used. The roof tiles were made locally out of recycled plastic bags and bottles. The lodge and rooms are designed with a certain amount of openness creating a seamless transition between inside and outside. Nicuesa seeks a balance of providing their guests with a high-quality experience while minimizing their impact on the environment.

One of the many tours they offer is their 'sustainability tour.' It's a fascinating one hour tour given by co-owner, Donna Butler. Starting in the lodge, Donna describes how and why they came up with the locations for the various buildings, their design philosophy and where the various wood types came from. It's a great introduction to the property.

My favorite tour at Nicuesa is the 'Esquinas River Tour.' The tour begins after breakfast. With kayaks in tow, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins as it's a beautiful, 10 mile boat ride up the coast to the mouth of the Esquinas River. The boat slows and enters meandering channels of mangroves. A variety of birds take off in front of and behind the boat. Coffee and snacks are served as guides tell stories about local families and the importance of mangrove forests. After breakfast, it's time for the kayaks and an awe-inspiring paddle through this magical place. On the way back to the lodge, the boats stops once more at a local reef for snorkeling where numerous fish species can be seen.

The hiking at Nicuesa is also spectacular. The property itself is a 165 acre, private reserve and borders the beautiful and largely undiscovered Piedras Blancas National Park. Beautiful waterfalls, huge trees, hundreds of species of birds and animals along with thousands of species of plants call this area home. I could not get enough of these trails.

Communal dinners are served by candle light in the spacious and open lodge. Guests and employees sit at the same table where friends are made and memories are shared. An after dinner cocktail is the perfect night cap before bed and another day of adventure.

Nicuesa is involved in numerous conservation efforts and matches individual donations. They've donated thousands of dollars to the region they love and want to see protected for others to experience.

Michael and Donna Butler's goal of creating a place with little environmental impact and huge environmental appeal is evident in what they've created at Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge.

Mitch Popa is an independent video producer working on promoting Costa Rica's Ecotourism Industry. Please visit our website at http://www.ecotourismtravelguides.com or contact me personally at redwoodmitch@yahoo.com.

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Bed Bugs - Traveling Without Getting Stung

With the rash of reports from travelers around the world getting stung by bedbugs and bringing them home it is no wonder people are in fear every time they leave home. Whether you are hiking in a remote area staying in a flophouse or traveling first class staying at a five star resort you are in danger of an attack of these blood thirsty vermin. Here are a few things you can do to dramatically reduce your chance of bed bug bites though.

  • First, never put your bags or clothes on the bed. This common mistake is a virtual invitation for the bugs to hitch a ride home with you. Never leave your clothes or bags on the hotel floor.
  • Look behind the headboard and pull the bed out a foot or so look all around the bed for black specks. These creatures are very small if you see anything suspicious call the front desk. Leave the bed out from the wall during your stay. Bed bugs can not fly so if they have been coming from the nightstand they will have to get to you some other way.
  • Take a roll of clear packing tape with you while you travel. Wrap the legs of the bed sticky side out to trap the bed bugs trying to get to you. I know this seems extreme but you would rather feel weird than get stung.
  • Pull all of the bedding off the sides of the bed and look under the seams of the mattress. You are looking for something that looks like dirt smudges. This is the trail of blood and feces left by the bed bugs. If you find this leave the hotel once you find an infestation you should leave as fast as possible.
  • If you are an avid traveler I suggest taking two new king-size sheets and sewing them together on the bottom and sides. Use this at night like a big sleeping bag. Make sure and inspect and fold in the morning. Place this in a garbage bag and seal it while returning home. Unpack this before anything else and wash with the hottest water you have before using again.

In my next article I will explain how to handle finding bed bugs after you have stayed at a hotel. Even if you find them you do not have to bring them home.

Tim Russell is an internet junkie. With more than 20 niche websites form coin collecting to bed bugs. Please take the time to visit http://www.bed-bug-bites.net for all your updated bedbug information. If you have any direct questions you can email Tim tlrussell@bed-bug-bites.net

Tips To Select New Shower Door

If somebody is planning a new bathroom then he should know that a new bathroom cannot do without a stylish shower door. Shower doors are available in different colors, styles and finishes. The most common door style which are opted by people is a bypass door that has two doors that slide in a frame which is mounted over the wall of the tub. While buying shower doors for your washroom you should never forget about glass styles and shower finishes.

The bathroom accessories have gone under tremendous change in the past several years. With the help of a right accessory you can provide a finishing touch for every type of bathroom. If you are selecting shower doors then it is a good idea to shop for some additional accessories. You can start with towel bars. They are one of the basic accessories which a person needs in the bathroom. Nowadays you can find some doors which come with integrated towel bars. Always remember that towel bars are not the substitutes for grab bars. Towel bars are designed for a different purpose.

Modern accessories are easy to install and can give new look to your bathroom. Your job is to select the best model of doors which suits the interior of your bathroom. Two most common models available in the market are sliding and hinged models. If you are having a small bathroom then it is a good idea to opt for a sliding model. You should never forget that modern bathroom accessories not only enhance the beauty of your bathroom but also increases the functionality.

If you want to know more about Shower Doors then feel free to visit Bella Bathrooms.

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Key Considerations For Your Bathroom Remodeling Project

Bathroom remodeling is one among the most popular projects undertaken by New York City homeowners. Because of the hectic life that these people have to go through to keep up with the big city living, fresh changes are always welcome. Bathroom remodeling is a great way to inject a good amount of luxurious change that not only will enhance your way of living by maximizing comfort and functionality to start and end the day but will also add more value to your home. Wherever you may be, in New York or elsewhere, this type of home improvement project would surely prove to be an excellent investment that you and your family can enjoy to the fullest.

When you've finally decided to go on and do remodel your bathroom, it is fairly easy to get carried away by excitement and make a mess out of the project by rushing things. Taking the project one phase at a time, in careful planning, would surely avoid future home improvement hassles not to mention a busted budget. To make a success out of achieving your dream bathroom, you have to take care and give ample focus on several key considerations for your bathroom remodeling project.

The Design

Do not implement a theme that makes you wonder if you have stepped into another dimension after stepping into the bathroom. Of course you can get creative, but try to limit things within the overall theme of the house or the bedroom with which the bathroom is connected to. No matter how elaborate and elegant you were able to do your Victorian bath, it would still seem unfit if your house is built in ranch-style.

The Layout

This factor can greatly affect the overall functionality of your bathroom remodeling result. A good layout answers to both your needs and wants making the area as useful as it is indulgent. Your layout should be able to maximize the use of the available space to make moving around easy specially if you have issues with limited space. A great solution to your space problem is integrating innovative storage ideas and playing with elements that amplify space like lighting, colors, and surfaces.

If in the layout, you decide to rearrange several features such as the toilet, sink, and tub; the plumbing might need some rerouting. Discuss this with your hired bathroom remodeling contractor.

Maintenance

We all love to feel luxurious in our bathrooms and take advantage of every bit of comfort that it offers, but most of us are not very fond of cleaning it. For your bathroom remodeling result to require less maintenance, choose fixtures and surfaces that are resistant to mold, stains and even water marks. Acquiring such bathroom features will not only make cleaning less frequent but less tedious as well.

When shopping for features and fixtures to add to your bathroom remodeling project, instead of looking at the price tag, see beyond it and go for high quality products. Also take note that in products, the highest of quality does not necessarily follow the most expensive ones. Research is vital in making a success out of this task. The quality and durability of the products that you will be availing will help prevent recurrent repair and replacement.

Eugene Makeev has been in the home improvement industry for a while. His skills and expertise, which have been polished through time, are now used to help New York home owners avoid the common pitfalls in home improvements by matching their needs with the right, prescreened Contractor New York. For more Home Improvement information, Visit Bathroom Remodeling NYC.

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

How to Hire Bathroom Remodeling Contractors

Getting your bathroom remodeled can be quite challenging if you don't know how to find the right bathroom remodeling contractors. It only makes sense to get the best contractors to deal with your bathroom remodeling because you are spending a hefty amount of money to make sure you can get the desired result without much hassles.

You need experienced team of contractors to deal with your bathroom remodeling project because remodeling takes more time compared to building a new structure. They will have to tear out the wall and anything objects within the area affected. Contractors with remodeling experience will be able to handle the project efficiently.

This is the time when you should start asking around for your family members and friends' opinion before making the decision on hiring any local bathroom remodeling contractors. They might have done some home improvement for their home too and the contractors might be able to help you with your bathroom remodeling needs.

You can also visit a few established contractor referral sites for any reviews and recommendation about any contractors that you can hire for your improvement project. Check out for their rating and if there is any comment about them available for you to check.

You should contact several bathroom remodeling contractors at a time and request for a quotation for your bathroom remodeling needs. It is important for you to provide them with the same requirements in order to you can get the bid for the same work. You can avoid misunderstanding by writing down your requirements so that it will be easier for both parties to refer back to it if any misunderstanding occurred anytime when your home improvement project is being completed.

You can expect to get a professionally written proposal from by professional bathroom remodeling contractors. Everything should be explained clearly and you will be provided with the details about what types of material are being used and the timeframe for the whole project to be completed. It is important for you to ensure that all requirements are met in the specifics mentioned in the contract.

Do not focus on the price factor because everything will be inter-related. Most of the time, cheapest might not be the best option. Try to put the experience level and quality of product factor into consideration and you can make a better decision for the money that you will spend for your home improvement project later on.

You can find qualified bathroom remodeling contractors by visiting http://www.MyContractorOnline.com

Moisture Problems In Crawlspace
Ceiling Repairs

Decorating the Guest Bathroom

The guest bathroom is more important than you might think. While the bedroom that your guests stay in should be warm and inviting, the guest bath is often neglected. However, it does not take a lot of time or a lot of money to create peaceful bath for your visiting friends, but it does take knowing about modern bathroom designs as well as bathroom vanities.

What you need to know about design

When you are talking about modern bathroom designs, you will want to direct your attention to the idea of simplicity. And this is practical too. With a simple bathroom design, you will be able to create a timeless look that can be easily updated. Choose simple lines for your bathroom vanities as well as neutral bathroom faucets as well as mirror. The general idea is to create something that can be easily updated with towels or a new shower curtain instead of a complete remodel.

What you need to know about vanities

Bathroom vanities are a great way to welcome your guests without saying a world. In many modern bathroom designs, these vanities are able to hold a number of items underneath the main sink. What you can do is store any possible item that your guests might need, due to having forgotten them or misplaced them. No guest wants to have to ask their host for shampoo or soap, so make sure that it is already available to them. You may want to keep a basket underneath the vanity that you will pull out when it is needed for a new guest, but then replace it underneath the sink when the guest has left.

Other things to keep for your guests

Guests will also need fresh towels in their bathroom as well as a clear idea of where to put them once they are dirty. Many modern bathroom designs for guest baths will include a hamper so that this is easy to do as well as easy for the host to monitor. Once the hamper is full, new towels can be placed in the bathroom when the guest is away.

You may also want to keep a small token of appreciation for your guest in the bathroom as well. Bathroom vanities that have a small gift basket for the guest to take home, filled with bath and shower goodies, is always a nice way to welcome someone as well as send them on their way. In addition, man modern bathroom designs can also include candles that can be taken home as a memento as well.

The guest bathroom is truly a reflection of the care and respect that you have for your guests. By looking at modern bathroom designs and leaving a little something extra on bathroom vanities, you can make sure that none of your guests ever feels out of place; not one of your guests will ever doubt that you care about their comfort.

Dave Robert is a VP at Discount Bathroom Vanities Publishing, and an avid fixer-upper who's been restoring old houses for more than twenty years. Readers can tap into Dave's knowledge about home remodeling, and kitchen and bathroom design, at: http://www.DiscountBathroomVanities.com

Bottom Of Wall Damaged From Water
Cut Electrical Wire

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

How Plan Your Personalized Bathroom Design to Create the Bathroom of Your Dreams

If you want to have something that is unique to your personality, perhaps bathroom designs which are personalized is something to consider. After all your bathroom says a lot more about you than most other rooms in your home.

The size, configuration and style all have to be taken into consideration when creating a personalized bathroom. Researching for general information is only the beginning and must be tailored to your specific tastes and needs. You really have to give careful consideration before you begin a remodeling project - after all you're going to change the look and feel of your house. The changes you make can be costly and permanent, so you want to choose something that you are willing to live with for...well possibly for several years.

Often, people consider remodeling when they realize that they need more space. Maybe there needs to be a change in the floor plan that allows two people to use the bathroom more comfortably; just based on your basic living circumstances. Maybe there is limited counter space or storage space and you're finding this frustrating. These are all important considerations that will guide the types of changes you make and how the bathroom designs you select become more personalized.

It is also a good idea to discuss with your family members any current issues or concerns around the layout of the bathroom. Their input can offer some good insight into what the new bathroom should solve in terms of living style problems.

Once you have a clearer idea of what you want to change, you can begin looking at bathroom designs that will offer the right solution for your current issues.

Books and magazines on home design and decorating are an excellent place to start to generate plenty of ideas. Keep the pages of designs that most appeal to you in a folder or bookmark those pages in your web browser. Searching online for decorating tips can also help. Put together a scrapbook of all of your ideas, photos and product catalogs that will be useful as you decide whether to use a professional designer or go it alone and follow the do-it-yourself route.

It's always better to use a professional contractor, unless you're only making minor changes to your bathroom. The more complex the bathroom designs, the more appropriate it is to use bath design professionals. When interviewing contractors, make sure that they have a good idea of your specific desires and tastes; you don't want any last minute surprises when you see the finished results.

Be ready to answer a lot of questions about you and your family, and how you all plan to use the additional space. This is also a good time to show the contractor your scrapbook so they can get a look and feel for what you want the redesign of your bathroom to achieve.

Remember the old adage: perfect planning prevents poor performance. This is also true when considering bathroom designs for a remodeling project. The more careful, thought out plan will pay off when you meet with a contractor, and when you walk into the new spacious bathroom of your dreams.

Are you sick and tired of your boring old bathroom? Does it really need a total facelift to give it new life? Get lots more information on bathroom designs and tips for redecorating your bathroom at -> http://www.bathroomcentral.com.

Electrical Wire In Living Room
Hard Water Deposits In Toilet