Action Alert - Snow and Your Home

Snow can be a wonderful and amazing thing for people of all ages, but most don't know just how much it can damage your home, costing you thousands of dollars and a significant amount of stress! Snow can impact your home's safety in many ways, so we'll cover just a few in this brief article.

As snow falls, it accumulates on any surface that is or becomes cold enough to keep it from melting immediately, such as a roof or street. When snow accumulates on a roof, the heat from within the building typically melts the bottom portion, while cold from the outdoors and the snow above causes it to re-freeze. The water beneath seeps into the cracks and crevices of the roof filling them with water, which expands when it freezes again, spreading the materials the roof is made from and creating gaps in the seal of the roof that keeps the building dry. When those gaps become large enough, the roof will begin to leak, causing large amounts of water damage within the buildings structural interior which will require extensive repairs. If the damage is not addressed immediately, it can spread, causing a lot of damage to the structural integrity of the building.

Even if the snow doesn't melt and re-freeze, if enough accumulates on the roof, it can cause damage to your roof by the immense amount it weighs when the snow deepens. The weight of the snow can cause the roof to sag, or even to collapse if enough snow piles up without being removed, which could result in your home flooding!

Although the roof is a significant concern, you should also make sure that the rest of your home is safe and secure from winter snow. Make certain to clear any large accumulation away from your foundation, and anywhere it might be against the structure of your home. Again, as the warmth escapes your home, the snow will melt which allows water to fill any permeable material and expand as temperatures drop and it freezes again.

Another way that snow can damage your home is when it melts quickly, causing flooding either in your home, or around it. The ground can become over-saturated, leaking through into your basement or crawl space. Snow melt can cause rivers, creeks and lakes to over-flow their boundaries, sending large amounts of water into your home. Excess moisture in your home can be indiscernible to the naked eye, but can lead to mold and other bacterial growth if not addressed quickly.

Premier Emergency Water Removal - 24 HR Emergency Flood Mitigation Services

http://www.premierwaterremoval.com/

We offer flood mitigation services to the Puget Sound Area in Washington State. We're proud to provide the highest quality and standards of service for over 20 years! Please check out our website to see what we can do for info on how we can help you!

FLOODED? GIVE US A CALL!

(877) 939-3682

2008 Premier Emergency Water Removal

Plant Covering Window

Remodeling Your Kitchen? Here's a Tip

Do the winter doldrums, cramped up inside your home, have you yearning for a newly remodeled kitchen? As you shopped for holiday gifts this year, did you spend more time drooling over kitchen accoutrements than the items you had pre-designated on your gift-giving list? Then, maybe it's time Santa brought you a kitchen remodel.

Remodeling your kitchen doesn't have to be the scary proposition it's made out to be. With a little preplanning, in fact, your dream kitchen could be just that: a dream come true. Just in time for post-holiday makeovers, the "Albany Times Union" recently ran an article titled "Kitchen remodeling tips." Therein, the newspaper listed several pieces of kitchen remodeling advice, straight from the mouths of some leading kitchen designers. What did those experts suggest?

1. Devise a kitchen remodeling budget. To optimize the resale value of your home, multiply its overall value by 10 to 15% suggests one kitchen remodel expert. So if, for example, your home is worth $250,000, your remodeling budget should fall somewhere between $25,000 and $37,500.

2. Call in some kitchen remodeling help. No matter how handy you might be, plumbing, electrical and construction issues are going to creep up. If you can't afford to hire experts for the entire project, at least splurge on them during the kitchen remodel design phase.

3. Don't be a kitchen remodeling scrooge. If ever the adage "You get what you pay for" rang true, it's during a home remodel project. The money you save at the outset will come back to bite you over the long haul when you have to shell out more money to replace or fix the shoddy work.

4. Make your kitchen remodeling investments sensible ones. It's okay to splurge on certain aspects of your remodel projects, but make sure those expensive purchases provide you with long-term return on your investment. Kitchen flooring and cabinets are ideal kitchen remodeling splurges.

5. Don't overlook the lighting. Inadequate lighting, in fact, may be the rationale behind your kitchen remodeling desires. Don't make the same mistake twice by investing in a remodeled kitchen only to discover it's a dark and dreary prison.

6. Don't fall into the trap of thinking your kitchen remodel will be permanent. In this day and age, when change is moving at fast forward pace, that space-age design you love today may be an eyesore a year or two from now. When remodeling your kitchen, try to steer clear of built-in components that may be impossible to replace with a same size fixture.

7. Get back to kitchen remodeling basics. You have to keep in mind that functionality reigns over form. While a pretty remodeled kitchen looks nice, it's not going to do you much good if you can't store your kitchen gadgets and gizmos in it, cook in it or gather for meals in it.

8. Conduct a space reality check before remodeling your kitchen. "You may want an island for extra storage, but if the overall space isn't large enough, an island may just be in the way," one of the newspapers kitchen remodeling experts pointed out.

Carmen Fontana is a Web Services Manager for Western Reserve Internet Services. For additional kitchen planning resources visit http://www.superkitchens.com.

Wood Ceiling Beam Repair

Your Energy Efficient Kitchen

We all have to eat and cooking uses energy, especially at the holidays when we're cooking for a group. So what do we do if we want to save energy, but we want to have nice home cooked meals? With an Energy Efficient Kitchen, you can eat well without the outrageous energy bill.

Small Tips That Add Up

There are lots of quick efficient tricks that require no monetary investments. Use these tips to be more efficient in the kitchen, use less energy and save money. When heating water in a pot, put the lid on so the water heats faster. Try to cook various dishes at the same time so you take advantage of an already heated oven or stovetop. Turn the heat off a little early so the food continues to cook while the heat is off but the stove or oven is still hot. Turn the light off when you leave the kitchen. Make sure the refrigerator door is closed. And if you really want to have a super Energy Efficient Kitchen, ask yourself if you really need the light in the fridge and freezer. If you can do without out them, remove them.

Energy Efficient Kitchen Lighting

Energy saving light bulbs last longer and use much less energy so you start saving money the moment you put them in. Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFL's) are one type that are popular and easy to find and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Experiment a bit with the different types available to find the one that works best for you. CFL's are slightly more expensive initially but will quickly save you money on your energy bill. And, you won't have to change them as often. Of course, you can use CFL's all over your home, even outside. Energy Efficient Lighting is simple: just change a light bulb and start saving. Hardware stores, retail stores and even some grocery stores carry CFL's or you can order them online.

Energy Efficient Kitchen Appliances

If you're up for a larger project, upgrade older, energy wasting appliances. The Energy Star logo will be very helpful when choosing new appliances. This logo shows you that an appliance has met certain strict energy saving guidelines. Also, make sure you buy the right size for your needs. Something too small will be overworked, too large will be wasteful. Isn't the Holiday Season the perfect occasion to buy a new Energy Efficient Energy Star appliance for your hard working kitchen?

Now go ahead, enjoy the holidays, cook all those wonderful family dishes and even try some new ones. Your Energy Efficient Kitchen will help keep the energy bills in line so you can spend your money on more important things like ... FOOD!

Bon Appetit!

Visit us at http://www.MakeYourHomeEnergyEfficient.com for free Energy Efficient ideas for any home.

Buying Discount Laminate Flooring

Hardwood floors are beautiful, but, as everyone knows, expensive. A lovely and less expensive alternative is laminate flooring. Laminate comes in a wide variety of both colors and styles, and you can find a laminate to suit any budget. They look just like hardwood floors and are now manufactured by such reliable forums as Mohawk and Shaw, so you know you Will have good quality.

There is a wide range of choices in laminate flooring, something to suit every room in the house and every house in the neighborhood. No matter what the style of the room, there is a laminate that will suit it. There are floorings that resemble Early American plank boarding and there is flooring that is super modern in look.

Most of the laminates today are made to look like wood, but there are other options as well. Laminates are available in styles that resemble tile, stone or marble as well. Using all laminate floorings througout your home, you can have the look of ceramic tile in kitchens and bathrooms, the look of wood in living room and family room and the look of marble in the foyer.

When you begin to shop for laminates, measure the area you want to cover. Then allow 10% for waste and pattern matching. With these numbers in hand, you will be able to price your flooring project realistically.

There are many sites on the Internet where you can shop for discount flooring. These sites have excellent pictures so that you can see exactly what you are going to get. The most important thing when you order on line is that you get all the material from the same lot, so there will be no differences in the material. If all of the material is not from the same lot, you will notice variations in color and textures once the flooring is laid.

Make sure you check the flooring immediately upon arrival for any damage or faults. Make sure there is no chipping or other damage along the edges. Insist on an exchange if there is any damage that cannot be trimmed away without affecting the use of the flooring.

It is a fairly easy project to install laminate flooring, and most handy do it yourselfers can do it. The prep is easy, since laminate can be installed right over existing flooring, whether that flooring is vinyl, hardwood, wood or concretes. Laminate has been successfully installed over concrete in basements.

Laminate flooring comes in pieces that are fitted together in a tongue and groove method. It is not glued or nailed in place the way hardwood floors are, but rather "floats" with the pieces glued to each other rather than to the under flooring. If you are doing one room in laminate flooring, you can easily complete it as a weekend project.

Kurt Schefken's papers can be encountered on countless websites with reference to discount floors. From his detailed writings, the author proofed his deep knowledge on topics like discount laminate flooring.

Cutting Costs on Construction Projects -5 Ways to Stretch Your Construction Dollars

When designing a home or addition, part of the fun for the owner is imagining the project finished without any compromises.When bids come in from the contractors, many home owners are eager look at ways to reduce the price without loosing space or the character of the project.As the architects, our job is to help bring the price down as far as possible without loosing the qualities that the owners loved in the first place.It must be understood that some money saving choices could diminish the long term durability or energy efficiency of a home or addition. The following are 5 ways to either design the most cost effective project from the start or adjust a design once the bids come in:

1. Keep it simple: Generally the simpler the overall details and structure of a home, the less expensive it is to build-the exception are extremely precise modern details.
2. Consider cost effective materials both on the exterior and interior of the home.There can be a $20/square foot or more difference between higher priced flooring materials and lower priced choices.The same is true of exterior materials.Before making those choices be aware of the trade offs, sometimes they are minimal.
3. Keep built-in cabinetry to a minimum.In the long run those elements can be added, but in the short run they are expensive.You may need to buy more furniture to take the place of cabinetry.
4. Explore the trade-offs of lower priced windows and doors.For exterior doors and windows the savings may not always justify the change.Make certain that the alternatives are durable, attractive, and energy efficient before making those changes.
5. Review choices for the mechanical system.There are many ways to heat and cool a home.Not all systems are designed equal, but the cost differential between the most expensive and the least expensive is substantial.

Bonus idea:
Add a porch.Few additions to a home add as much beauty, functionality, and pleasure as a porch and for a fraction of the cost of interior space.

We help our clients make these choices quite frequently.In my experience, an informed client is a happy client-make sure you know the trade-offs and look at as many samples of alternatives as possible.

http://www.crisparchitects.com/
James M. Crisp, AIA is an architect working in New York, Connecticut and Massachusetts.

Consulting

Using Guadua Angustifolia Bamboo For Construction

Using bamboo for construction is a fantastic way to build structurally-sound buildings while avoiding much of the time and effort that using traditional materials often requires. Of the many species of bamboo that can be used to build structures, guadua angustifolia is widely-regarded by experts as one of the best. Unfortunately, many people don't realize the benefits of using this bamboo for construction. This article provides some insight on what guadua is and the unique advantages it offers as a construction material.

What Is Guadua Angustifolia?

It is one of the sturdiest of bamboo species. Able to grow, adapt and flourish in several geographic locations, it is most commonly found in the Asian Pacific, Africa and America. Most bamboo grows more quickly than trees and enjoys a greater level of productivity. Guadua has been known to grow even more rapidly than other bamboo species, reaching its full height within 6 months. Because of its fast growth pattern and ability to reach full height quickly, this bamboo can often be harvested after only 5 years, dwarfing the time to harvest of most trees in the same location. This short harvest time makes it an ideal candidate for construction material.

Advantages Of Using Guadua Angustifolia For Construction.

Besides its ability to reach full height and be harvested quickly, guadua offers other advantages. First, this species of bamboo is very easy to work with. Using relatively simple tools, builders can cut and reposition it with much less effort required of regular timber and even other species of bamboo. Second, it's cheaper to use than other materials. Construction costs rise quickly due to the cost of materials. Guadua bamboo can be up to 45% cheaper to use. Third, because bamboo fibers are considerably longer than those of wood, it can often be more sturdy than steel. Guadua's tensile strength actually exceeds that of steel.

There are also environmental advantages to using it for construction. Because it grows and can be harvested so quickly, guadua can help curb the dwindling size of our rainforests. When trees are cut for construction, it takes years to replenish the timber. Also, because it is an organic material, guadua can act as an erosion control that balances the flow of streams and rivers. Another benefit is that it can convert CO2 into oxygen much more quickly than trees. This oxygen can then be used by other living things in the environment, providing a key advantage for a healthy eco-system.

Despite most people not realizing the advantages of using guadua angustifolia as a construction material, there are some who are spreading the word. In many locations, it makes little sense to use regular timber when guadua offers so many cost, structural and environmental advantages!

For more info and pictures about building with bamboo, feel free to visit our website: Guadua Bamboo Furniture & Constructions Costa Rica.

Old Concrete Fence Base

Is Your Home Ready For an Air Conditioner

If you are looking into getting air conditioning installed into your home, there are things that you will want to consider first. You will want to make sure that your home is ready to go for the installation before you will be able to see any actual work get done. Whether you are looking to get a system installed for the first time or you want to upgrade your current system, fall may be the time to do it. This is simply because hardly anyone thinks about their air conditioning units as winter approached. Because of this there may be some great offers that you can take advantage of. This may be the time of year where the companies will have less scheduling conflicts as well. So the installation can generally be done when it suits you the most.

Along with upgrading or having a new installation done, you will want to check out the insulation that you currently have. While many people think of insulation as something that is needed to keep a house warm. The fact is though; it is also needed in order to keep the house cool. Just as you do not want all of your warm air to escape, you do not want your cool air to escape either. Having your rooms properly insulated will save you not only money on your cooling costs but it will also help your air conditioning unit to not have to run on over drive all the time.

Now that you are ready to start getting your rooms cooled down, you have to consider the two options you have. There are the whole house units and then there are the portable air conditioners that can be carried from one location to another. The portable air conditioners are great for people who rarely use certain areas of their home. Instead of paying to cool down the entire place, you can simply cool off the rooms you use the most. If you ever have to spend time in the other areas you can simply take the portable air conditioner with you. You will have to deal with hauling it around, even when you are not feeling that up to it though.

If you have a house that is used non-stop then it is probably a good idea to go with the whole house air. This is beneficial for not only comfort but for ease as well. If you were someone that would not like having to haul potable air conditioners all over the place then this would be the option for you. So no matter which route you want to take, make sure that you are completely ready before you make the investment and you will be off to a good start. This will make sure that you are going to have an easy time getting your air hooked up. You will also find yourself saving a lot of money in the long run, which is something that many people can surely appreciate.

Patrick Schnurbusch operated HVAC & Refrigeration Experts offer Exclusive Residential and Commercial Services. Check out the Maintenance tips at http://www.hvac-nc.com/maintenancetips.html and to know more about them go to http://www.hvac-nc.com/aboutus.html

Structural Systems

Home Improvement Tips - Renovating So You Can Age at Home

When remodeling your home you should think to the future. Do you have an elderly relative that might be moving in at some point or should you be planning for your own future?

A recently released a study that found 75% of the people who currently own homes planned on retiring in them. Its even got a term. Aging in place.

Try to think with the future ahead in mind. Here is some ideas to keep in mind when you are renovating your home.

• Consider a more open more wheelchair friendly layout for your design.
• Remodel your home so that you can live on the ground level if necessary.
• Avoid steps on the main floor if possible.
• Widen doorways to make them wheelchair accessible.
• Try to plan the front entry as low as possible to the ground and eliminate stairs with sloping walks.
• In a bathroom remodel, install extra reinforcement for grab bars and make them handicap accessible.
• Use lever type faucet handles in bathrooms and the kitchen.
• Plan for a lot of storage within easy reach - the area from 20 to 44 inches above the floor and no more than 20 deep.
• When installing cabinets use drawers where possible.
• Make sure that drawers have pulls that are easy to grasp.
• Install lever handles on doors throughout the house.
• Consider hard flooring or choose an attractive, low-pile commercial carpet.
• Place your electric outlets higher than normal and switches lower.
• Consider a shelf outside the front door so you can put down packages while looking for keys and bringing bags in from a car.

Not only will these upgrades to your home benefit you if you choose to retire in your home, it will also likely make it more appealing should you choose to sell it at some point later.

Bob Current writes about a variety of subjects including home renovations. You can download his free report on Choosing The Best Contractor For Your Renovation at http://www.homeimprovementtips.info.

Simple Layout And Framing

Mechanic's Lien Source Book - Can You Include Damages in Your Mechanic's Lien Claim?

A mechanic's lien is a powerful device to enforce payment on a construction project. But is there a limit to the amount you can claim? What about damages for breach of contract?

I am not aware of any state which would allow direct or consequential damages to be inserted into a mechanic's lien. The reason is that such claims are strictly limited to the labor, materials, and equipment conferred to the project which results in some form of permanent improvement. Your damages, over and above the amount owed on the contract and change orders, would be outside this scope.

Here are some examples of damages which could not be included:

Loss of profits on other jobs. As a result of not being paid $10,000, you were unable to use that money to advance labor and materials for another large job you were just awarded. You had to turn that job down and lost a profit.

Lack of productivity. Assume there have been so many changes and miscommunications on the job, that you had to start, stop, mobilize, demobilize, expand, shrink, fabricate, re-fabricate, and change your work force and productivity. You have lost countless hours and had to pay your employees out of pocket. This is normally not included in the mechanic's lien.

Delay damages. You have been delayed in the start of the project as well as during the course of construction.

Extended overhead. The architect has made so many changes to that you have been on the job much longer than expected and have had to carry a substantial overhead.

It is important to remember that although these items may not be included in your lien, you can include them in a lawsuit or arbitration for breach of contract and consequential damages against the person you have your contract with.

Sue Malone
442 Diablo Road, Suite 137
Danville, CA 94526
Email: info@NationalLienLaw.com

Sue Malone is the owner of National Lien Law, a site devoted to contractor forms for use in the construction industry. For Mechanic's Lien Forms and more information on this subject, including free lien law summaries and time deadline tables for all 50 states, visit our website at: http://www.NationalLienLaw.com Or call (925) 899-8449 and ask for Bernie. All representatives are graduates of an accredited law school, but are not lawyers and cannot give legal advice. Please consult with a construction attorney if you wish legal representation.

2008 NationalLienLaw.com. All rights reserved.

Home Building - Homeowner Tips

Like most people you have heard the nightmare stories from family and friends about the home they built or the remodel they did and how things didn't go right .The project took far too long and ended up costing more then initially discussed. The owner blames the contractor, the contractor blames the owner and it's the same old song and dance. What's the key thing usually missing in the scenario?

Communication between all parties

As an owner builder you may look at the process and think how hard can it be, hire a guy to do this another to do that and it's done right? most likely it's not. There are so many things that can be overlooked or go wrong, and you may be surprised to learn that most people working in the trades simply just don't care about quality nor do they care to work with other trades for the common good of the project. It takes someone to orchestrate, and someone with experience to get the job done right.

You may be hiring an architect and/or building contractor and more often then not they can't seem to get it right either, they simply don't understand that it takes a team working together towards a common goal. The goal being making sure your project comes together as you envisioned it, on time, and on budget. As a building contractor we have built many custom homes and in most cases struggled through the process using plans and specifications that frankly just weren't thought through completely.

Nine out of ten times the building contractor doesn't even see the plans until it is time to put the numbers together for the project.

On average most people looking to build will hand off their plans to about three contractors for pricing before they make a decision. Now let's assume the plans and specifications don't have all the necessary information needed to price the job out correctly, these three contractors now have to call the architect and the customer to get their questions answered, or they don't bother to ask any questions at all and the customer is left with the contractors interpretation of the plans.

We have seen time and time again where the customer says, "I thought that was included" and the typical response from the contractor is, "it wasn't on the plans", and or "you didn't ask for it.

Or how about this one, the customer states to the contractor, "why didn't you tell me I shouldn't use this type of stone in my shower?" the typical response is usually I didn't know, or you didn't ask. So many times the architect will call out for materials in their specifications that they saw or read about in a magazine without understanding the application process, what it takes to be installed properly, or how it will adhere to the other materials surrounding it.

The point is, there is so much to know about building a home correctly, it takes years of actually working with the materials, and doing the installations to understand the what, when, and how.

The bottom line is, if you're thinking about building yourself or decide to hire someone to do the build, hire yourself a consultant first, most likely it will save you time, money, and more importantly your sanity.

Energy Saving Tips

Astonishingly, Americans generally spend $1600 or more a year on their utility bills. Not only is much of this wasted energy, but more carbon dioxide is emitted into the air from one home than two average cars. The following tips will help you save energy costs both at home and in the car.

*Set your thermostat comfortably low in the winter and comfortably high in the summer. Install a programmable thermostat that is compatible with your heating and cooling system.

* Use compact fluorescent light bulbs.

* Air dry dishes instead of using your dishwasher's drying cycle.

* Turn off your computer and monitor when not in use.

* Plug home electronics, such as TVs and DVD players, into power strips; turn the power strips off when the equipment is not in use (TVs and DVDs in standby mode still use several watts of power).

* Lower the thermostat on your hot water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

* Take short showers instead of baths.

* Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes.

* Drive sensibly. Aggressive driving (speeding, rapid acceleration and braking) wastes gasoline.

* Look for the ENERGY STAR label on home appliances and products. ENERGY STAR products meet strict efficiency guidelines set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the United States Department of Energy.

Energy Auditing Tips:

* Check the insulation levels in your attic, exterior and basement walls, ceilings, floors, and crawl spaces.

* Check for holes or cracks around your walls, ceilings, windows, doors, light and plumbing fixtures, switches, and electrical outlets that can leak air into or out of your home.

* Check for open fireplace dampers.

* Make sure your appliances and heating and cooling systems are properly maintained. Check your owner's manual for the recommended maintenance.

* Study your family's lighting needs and use patterns, paying special attention to high-use areas such as the living room, kitchen, and outside lighting. Look for ways to use lighting controls - like occupancy sensors, dimmers, or timers - to reduce lighting energy use, and replace standard light bulbs and fixtures with compact or standard fluorescent lamps.

Insulation Tips

* Consider factors such as your climate, building design, and budget when selecting insulation R-values for your home.

* Use higher density insulation, such as rigid foam boards, in cathedral ceilings and on exterior walls.

* Ventilation plays a large role in providing moisture control and reducing summer cooling bills. Attic vents can be installed along the entire ceiling cavity to help ensure proper airflow.

* Recessed light fixtures can be a major source of heat loss, but you need to be careful how close you place insulation next to a fixture unless it is marked IC.

These tips, and more, are provided to you in a larger PDF file by the US Department of Energy.

David Tanguay is dedicated to providing research, reviews & helpful information to consumers and businesses. For more information related to Green Energy and Alternative Energy please visit http://greenenergyonline.org

Home Improvement Books

The other day, I was surfing the Internet and came upon an online home building bookstore that put together a website with the best-selling home building books on the market today. These books range from basic carpentry to advanced structural engineering and everything else you could possibly think of that could be related to the home building, selling, remodeling and construction process.

I couldn't believe the simple and easy to use. Here's a list of some of their books selections.

Photo Guide to Home Repair - The most up-to-date, complete, and useful guide to home repair a homeowner can have. With more than 350 projects and 2300 photos, virtually every home repair challenge.

Exterior Siding, Trim & Finishes - This first ever compilation by Fine Homebuilding on the popular subject provides builders with ideas for choosing the correct finishes for home exteriors, plus solid how-to information.

Flipping Houses - This book is designed for realty investors who want to profit from buying below market, making cosmetic improvements to add value, and then quickly reselling.

Bathroom Remodeling - Remodeling a bathroom is a challenge - it's action-oriented and requires extra energy and stamina. But you, undoubtedly, realize it's a challenge you want to take on.

One $20 home building books or home repairs book, can save you lots of money, if you're willing to do a little research and the labor to complete almost any home building project.

By the way, if you're interested in learning how to repair a roof, build your own house, interior decorating, structural engineering, building a deck, gathering some more information about home painting or even remodeling your bathroom. Our online home building bookstore can save you money if you're willing to do the work.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He has just finished a Home Buyers Guide to take some of the frustration out of home shopping.

If your looking for some more House Remodeling Pictures or home building ideas.

Structural Engineering Books

Paint Me a Picture - No - Paint Me a Hall, DIY Style

Painting is one of the easiest DIY projects around. Novice DIY weekend warriors often begin with their DIY home improvement projects by repainting fences, hallways, doors, windows and walls.

Important tools

To be able to do painting jobs around the house, you would need the following:

1. Roller brushes of different sizes- you need different sizes, depending on the job. Roller brushes that are more than six inches in length are good for walls. Smaller roller brushes can be used to paint the bottom of walls. Small roller brushes can also be used to paint tables and chairs.

2. Synthetic brushes- synthetic brushes come in all shapes, sizes and colors. However, as a rule of thumb, purchase those that have fine yet durable strands. Synthetic brushes should be at least two inches wide. Larger brushes should have longer handles.

In addition, large brushes are heavier, so you have the option of attaching them to poles for hard to reach areas, such as the corners of ceilings.

3. Supply of old newspapers- you can use newspapers or similar recyclable papers. Use these to protect furniture and other surfaces when you are painting. Use plenty of paper when painting large surfaces such as walls and ceilings.

4. Plastic paint pans- pans can be bought from hardware stores. These specially made pans hold the paint on one side, while uneven surfaces allow you to remove excess paint.

5. Thinners- thinners will allow you to remove excess and encrusted paint on your roller brushes. Hard, encrusted paint can damage your roller brushes in the end. Never use water, as it will take too long to remove all the paint.

How to paint a hall

It seems daunting at first- the idea of painting a hall. But in reality, some tools and a bit of patience, plus lots of fun will get the job done.

The first step is to clear out your hallway. Put all the stuff in your hallway in another room. This eliminates the need to put newspapers all around. The risk of paint spots on your stuff is reduced to zero.

Second step is to clean the walls with a wet sponge and some soap. Rinse the walls and allow it to completely dry. If there is glossy paint, use a sandpaper to make the surface a bit rougher.

With a roller brush, apply the primer. Proceed to applying two coats of paint. Let the paint dry for a day or two.

Start re-adding things to your hallway. Old, useless things like unused golf bags should not be added to your hallway again. This process will de-clutter your hallway.

To beautify this space, consider adding plant life. Potted plants are a good choice. The potted plants need not be real. You can use plastic daisies or synthetic roses. Just make sure you clean your plants regularly with a wet piece of cloth to preserve their color.

If you do not have a clock in the hallway, consider adding a wall clock. Wall clocks can be either modern or completely classical with swinging pendulums.

The author of this article is Benedict Yossarian. Benedict recommends Roof Bond Foam Roof Insulation and Dekorbeton Concrete Stamping for your DIY needs.

Repairing Scratches in Laminate Flooring

When I moved into my home, the floor in the living room had just been refinished with beautiful honey toned laminate flooring. It was beautiful and it fit my decor perfectly. The only problem was the fact that one of my chair had popped a cap, unbeknownst to everyone involved, and it wasn't until a few weeks later, when I went to rearrange a few pieces of furniture, that I noticed it. Much to my horror, the gleaming floor beneath the chair had become a scratched mess and I shuddered at the thought of having to fix them.

Now, I'm sure that I am not the only person who has had to deal with scratched laminate flooring. In fact, I'm almost positive that the problem is universally shared. The simple truth is, if you are going to own laminate flooring, at one time you will own scratched laminate flooring. Most people would simply sigh and shift the furniture around to cover the evidence, something that I actually did for a few months, but laminate flooring can be fixed without having to tear out pieces and replace them.

Most repairs in laminate flooring are pretty minor. A glass may have fallen and gouged a small hole or the kids may have scraped a toy car, minus wheels, across a small section. The scratches and holes are simply surface damage but they definitely detract from the once shiny beauty of your floors.

With minor damage, you will only need to do minor repairs to your laminate. Unfortunately, as with most repairs, there is nothing regularly stocked in your shelves that will fix the floors. You will need to make a run to the local home hardware or flooring store to pick up a repair kit. Some manufacturers will make repair kits for their flooring so the best place to start is the store where you purchased your flooring.

If you aren't sure of the manufacturer or the manufacturer does not have a repair product, simply purchase a generic repair kit. A repair kit usually consists of a tube of putty or wax. This is your actual filler. Some repair kits have colored putty while others have paint that you mix to create the matching floor color; this you mix with the putty before applying. Both are perfectly fine to purchase and you will usually run yourself about ten to twenty dollars.

Some repair kits come with putty knife and everything else you need but if it doesn't simply pick up a putty knife while you are at the store. Popsicle sticks work perfectly for applying the putty to the crack.

Before you start repairing your scratches and dents, make sure the area is clean of any debris and is dry. There is no sense repairing a spot if a patch of dog hair is going to be glued into the floor. Once the area is prepared, it's time to get mixing.

If you went with a colored putty that matches your floor, all you will need to do is spoon in the putty, but if you went with a mix, you will need to match and create the desired color. Once you have that, spoon in the putty and smooth with the putty knife. Remove any of the excess putty so you have a smooth surface. Lastly, wipe the area around the scratch, being careful to not touch the repaired scratch with a clean cloth to wash away any residue.

Once it dries, your laminate flooring should look as good as new.

Sometimes, you will find the occasional scratch that is too shallow for the putty to work properly. If this is the case, the best product on the market is ScratchAway. This is a spray on treatment for any small scratches on laminate and other wood flooring. All you need to do is spray the area and then buff until it is dry.

So with a few little tricks of the trade, there are very few reasons why you can't enjoy scratch free laminate flooring for years to come.

Sirena Van Schaik is a professional writer who provides information on wood flooring and laminate flooring for A1 Wood Flooring

Four Bolt Shear Wall Hold Down

Foundation Repair Warranties

The warranty game, is the most over used sales tool in the industry. The most advertised, yet the most misunderstood, part of having structural repair work done on your property is the warranty. You will see "Lifetime Warranty" or "Lifetime Transferable Warranty" or even "Longest Warranty in the Business". What does this mean? What is the warranty worth? Are there any costs associated with the warranty? Most importantly, what warranty do I need?

The number one piece of advice about warranties - Read It! If the salesman does not have a copy for you to read, tell him to go get one. There is generally only one reason that he is not carrying one and that is because he does not want you to read it. If the warranty is too long or too hard to read, forget it. Warranties are simple - "This is what we cover and this is how long we cover it for".

When it comes to Lifetime Warranties, be careful. In some states a "lifetime warranty" is 7 years, some states it is 11 years and then some states it is for the life of the structure. Why would a lifetime warranty be 7 years? This can be the case because, according to a general law enacted by some states, the standard life of a service is 7 years. In these states your lifetime warranty is not as good as the others guys 10 or 15 year warranty.

Limited Warranties are standard in foundation repair. "Limited" means that the only things that are covered are the things that can be affected by the work that has been done. You still want to read this type of warranty and understand what is covered and for how long. Don't forget to ask if there are any fees required before the contractor will honor his warranty.

A manufacturer's warranty of their products is the number one item that you should be looking for. If the individual installer goes out of business, there will still be someone standing behind the products you purchased. The best of these manufacturer's have very simple and comprehensive warranties for their products. One specific manufacturer has a three part warranty form that states exactly what is covered and for how long. One copy goes to the installing contractor for his records and the other two go to the property owner. The property owner then submits one of their copies directly to the manufacturer so there is no doubt that it has been filed. Simple and effective.

Warranties should not be difficult, they should be readily available and straight forward. They need to state what is covered and for how long. If a foundation engineer has been hired to design and supervise the installation, and he recommends a product that a quality manufacturer will supply, there should not ever be a warranty issue in the first place. If there is, call the engineer first, the contractor second and lastly the manufacturer. Your issue will be resolved, and you will be happy.

Don't play the warranty game. Hire quality people to work on your most valuable asset and rest assured that you have taken the correct steps in getting what you pay for.

About the Author:

Jeff Tully invites you to view his website http://www.myfoundationrepairs.com if you are having any foundation issues including bowing walls, cracks in your foundation or any type of settlement issue. On this website you will find the truth about foundation repair methods and what you should expect. There are many misconceptions about foundation piers or tie backs, get the straight answers here.

This site was designed and built with the homeowner in mind is the only true source for foundation repair and waterproofing information. From determining if you really have a structural issue to hiring an engineer or foundation expert, you will find the answers on my site.

Freshen Up Your Bedroom

Fresh air is good for you, but how much time do you spend outdoors?

Since many of us spend most of our lives indoors, we should be aware of what is called "sick-house" syndrome. This sick house syndrome is a byproduct of keeping your house closed up against outside elements. We all want to block out noise, pollution and cold or hot air but this also prevents toxic fumes from getting out of our house!

Harmful fumes can come from paints, cleaning products, air fresheners and even wood smoke if you have a fireplace. Believe it or not, even your furniture and carper can emit dangerous pollutants. Keeping your house sealed up to keep out the elements can also keep these fumes inside. Studies show that the air in our homes should be changed ten times per day - anything less causes build up of dangerous pollutants.

Since you spend most of your time in the bedroom, heres where you should start to freshen up your air. Youll be healthier and your bedroom will smell better too!

First, open the windows (just a crack is sufficient) when possible, and check to make sure that all vents are unblocked.

Another problem that lack of ventilation can cause is mold and mildew. This is found to be a danger not only to your health, but it can also damage the structure of your house. Especially in rooms such as the master and guest bathrooms, where humidity is likely to be high, proper ventilation is essential. The use of fans in these areas are helpful.

Also, check areas such as the attic, and underneath floors for proper air circulation. If you have a humidity problem upstairs, it probably means that the attic or roof space needs more ventilation. Be aware that some types of flooring can cause structural damage if there is not adequate ventilation beneath it.

Everyone wants a clean smelling bedroom but icky smells happen and you should not overdo it with room air fresheners. Aerosols should especially be avoided as they are not eco friendly and have chemical additives. You wont be able to create a fresh smell in your bedroom by adding more scent to the air instead open a window and let the real fresh air in!

A great way to make a safe air freshener and deodorizer for your bedroom is to sprinkle a few drops of vanilla or scented essential oil on a cotton ball. Put the ball in a pretty dresser tray or other open container that you will not mind if the oil touches it. Other ways to freshen up your bedroom naturally include using baking soda, white vinegar or dried herbs. Try putting a bouquet of fresh flowers on your dressing table for a great smell and a great look!

One other thing to be careful about in the bedroom is perfumes and hair sprays. You should keep the use of these to a minimum and try using only natural products if you can.

If you or your loved ones suffer from unexplained drowsiness, headaches or a general malaise, try getting fresher air through the house. Your family and your home will breath easier and avoid the "sick-house" syndrome.

Lee Dobbins writes for Bedroom Designs and Decorations where you can learn more about designing your dream bedroom.

All About Retaining Walls - Home Repair Advice

Introduction to Retaining Walls

First, a retaining wall is a structure that holds back, or retains, lateral faces of dirt, water, or other materials. Retaining walls are used to prevent erosion or collapse of higher level ground onto a certain building, structure, or general area. The earth that is retained is often referred to as backfill. The word backfill is also used as a verb to describe placing more dirt behind a retaining wall to make the ground more level.

Retaining walls can be the answer if you are blessed (or cursed) to a contoured lot. They can turn a steep slope into a terraced yard, creating a stair step effect instead of a slope.

Retaining walls can be constructed from many different materials using many different techniques. There are several factors that influence which choice will be the best choice for each situation, including cost, height of the wall, soil characteristics, and ground water conditions.

Generally, most municipalities require that any retaining wall over four feet in height be engineered or approved by a licensed engineer. It is important to check local building codes before starting any retaining wall projects, even if it is below four feet tall. After all, retaining walls should be structurally sound before there is any thought of aesthetic appeal. The retaining wall must be able to stand up to the pressure exerted by the backfill, also called lateral earth pressure. This lateral earth pressure is a majority of the force that the retaining wall will need to bear. Lateral earth pressure is determined by studying the weight of the soil unit, slope of the soil, soil type (for plasticity and adhesion purposes with clay soil types), and ground water levels. Engineers do many calculations with these factors to determine what design to implement with the wall. To homeowners and contractors that do not want to go through engineering steps, it is generally a good rule to overdo it. Many structural methods to build retaining walls with withhold earth, at least temporarily, with a height up to four feet, are adequate, which is why most local building codes require engineering if the wall will be over four feet tall.

However, even methods that may seem adequate for retaining earth can fail if they are not built properly. Many times, it is elements below grade that can make (or break) a retaining wall. Problems including bowing, slanting, or cracking are evidence of retaining wall failure because it was not successful in retaining the dirt. Cutting costs with a bad contractor, insufficient materials, or neglecting the below grade elements can turn out to be more expensive over time if replacement or repair is necessary often or if collapse of earth causes damage to nearby structures. For example, erosion can cause foundation issues if dirt erodes from under the foundation. This is just one example how a retaining wall failure can cause expensive problems aside from the cost to repair or replace the retaining wall.

Another aspect that is often neglected or underestimated that can cause failure of a retaining wall is drainage. Inadequate drainage of retaining walls can mean that water is trapped behind the wall, adding to the weight that the wall must hold back. Usually weep holes and/or drainage pipes are used to flush rain water and ground water from behind the wall. It is important that the drainage system, whatever it be, have a filter barrier to keep dirt from clogging the drain or weep hole.

Options for Retaining Wall Materials

Railroad Crossties Railroad crossties, also shortened to railroad ties, can be used as a retaining wall material; however, as with most every retaining wall material, it must be installed correctly in order to be a solution. For example, most railroad tie retaining walls will need a substantial footer to tie the crossties to in order to keep the bottom from sliding out. Also, there needs to be perpendicular members placed into the ground behind the wall to keep the wall from overturning. These members, called deadmen, should be at least 1.5 times as long as the wall is high and should be placed at minimum every 6 feet or so. Because railroad ties are wood (even though they are treated most of the time), there is a risk that they may rot over time or be subject to termite infestation, which can lead to a weak wall likely to bulge or break. And, even though there are areas for water to slowly seep though, it is still a good idea to have a filtered drain or weep holes designed into the wall.

Treated Wood Treated wood retaining walls offer many of the same risks as retaining walls because over time it is susceptible to rot and termite infestation. It is a labor intensive construction, but it is usually lightweight and decently strong if built correctly. It is recommended to build a concrete footer to attach the wall to in order to keep it from shifting. Construction usually requires a clear area to be backfilled after the wall is built, so it is not always the best material to use if you are replacing an existing retaining wall. This wall still needs weep holes or drains designed into the wall. Standing water behind the wood will only increase risk of rot.

Concrete Concrete is a great material to use for retaining walls. Of course, there is a right and a wrong way to build a concrete retaining wall, which makes choosing your contractor a big job. There are many different designs that can lead to a successful concrete retaining wall, but one thing is for sure: there needs to be a footer beneath the wall to ensure success. Concrete is one of the most durable man-made products known to man. Most concrete poured today is engineered to last for over 50 years. Plus, concrete offers many decorative options as well. Aside from a plain, white concrete retaining wall, you can also pour a colored concrete retaining wall, stain a retaining wall after it has cured, pour into a patterned form, apply a vertical stamp material and pattern after poured, etc. Sealing the concrete wall can lead to an easy-to-maintain surface that rinses free of most dirt and grime.

Blocks or Paver Stones Engineered blocks that stack together to make a wall must be as simple as building with Legos, right? Nope. These retaining walls should also have a significant footer in order to support not only the weight of the dirt but also the weight of the wall. These blocks can be a unique look, but it may even be necessary to place a concrete retaining wall behind the blocks if there immense lateral earth pressure. In such a case, the concrete would be the structural element, using the blocks as a visual feature.

Rock or Brick One of the favorite looks for a retaining wall is natural stone or brick. These materials usually look more permanent and traditionally classy. However, just as we have seen with the other materials, it is necessary to have a concrete footer below grade to carry the weight and ensure success of the retaining wall. Like architectural blocks or paver systems, it may be necessary to back a masonry retaining wall with a concrete retaining wall for structural support.

Tasha Lucas
Monster Constructors - http://www.monsterconstructors.com
Retaining Walls - http://www.monsterconstructors.com/dfw-retaining-walls.htm

Raised Door Threshold

Injection Waterproofing - Home Repair Tips

Injection waterproofing is often used to fill and seal cracks and crevices. The material is most often made from a polyurethane compound. The compound is lightweight and expands up to twice its original size when applied to a surface. Many non-toxic and environmentally safe products are available at home improvement stores nationwide. Injection waterproofing is used mainly in foundation crack repairs.

In most foundation cracks, a polyurethane injection can seal the opening. In some smaller cracks it may be apparent that a sealant was used because it may be difficult to evenly inject the compound. Single caulking style cartridges and the dual side-by-side cartridge systems are the types of injection waterproofing compounds available for retail purchase. Both of these are manually injected and easy to pump.

When using an injection waterproofing method, it is important to keep the area dry. Temporarily block any flowing water to the area, and clean and dry the area as needed. Experts say that in the case of water flowing through a hole, you can temporarily caulk the hole with candle wax, modeling clay or plumbers putty. If the cracks are in narrow or hard-to-reach places, you can use a flexible hose attached to the injector nozzle.

Whatever waterproofing system your leakage problem requires, be sure to do your research. If you choose to make this a do-it-yourself project, make sure you know where your leaks are coming from and the proper method to repair them. When purchasing waterproofing materials you should make sure you are buying the appropriate product for your needs. The National Association of Waterproofing and Structural Repair Contractors (NAWSRC) has tons of information on waterproofing. Whether or not you decide to hire a contractor, this organization can help you from beginning to end.

Waterproofing Info provides detailed information on waterproofing systems, including injection waterproofing, foundation waterproofing, concrete waterproofing, deck waterproofing, basement waterproofing, and waterproofing basement walls, as well as waterproofing contractors and consultants. Waterproofing Info is affiliated with Business Plans by Growthink.

Wood Fence Damage

Popular Alternative to Boring Windows

Considering the popularity of mini Tiffany stained glass windows, it is clear that there are all manner of individuals who are more than happy to utilize these types of products in their homes. With so much emphasis on beautifying your home and creating an aesthetic value, it is easy to see that there is no end in sight of individuals making the effort to create a beautiful effect in their home. With mini Tiffany stained glass windows available, it is easy enough to install these types of products and create a tremendous level of beauty for the home itself.

With so many people from around the world making this effort, the popularity of mini Tiffany stained glass windows continues to rise well into the modern day. While the practice of installing this product in the past was fairly common, in recent years, there has been less and less emphasis on this type of effort overall. Largely due to the perceived expense of stained glass windows, there are less and less individuals utilizing this type of product until recently.

With so many new manufacturing processes in place, the cost of these products has come down substantially, making it a simple matter to install and not have to worry overly much about the installation process or the cost of the product. With the low prices in place, the popularity of these products has shot up considerably. Whatever it is you might require, you can very likely get it at a much lower price than you might suspect.

With so much effort to beautify the home, there are all manner of individuals who are trying their best to install the popular products and make their home more attractive than their neighbors. With this focus on beautification in the modern day, it is clear that there is no end of individuals who are concerned with the looks of their home and the belief that mini Tiffany stained glass windows can increase the aesthetic value.

Anyone who is proud of their home and enjoys the aesthetic value that they can build into their house would be well served to utilize mini Tiffany stained glass windows for those areas of the home that are available for this purpose. With so many individuals looking to improve the looks of their home, it is only natural that so many of them would turn to stained glass windows in order to provide what they need.

With the use of mini Tiffany stained glass windows, it is a simple matter to install this type of product and create a completely different look for your home. With all this effort involved, you can ensure that there is no stone left unturned in the effort to beautify your home. From windows around the front of your home all the way around to the back, the addition of stained glass windows can not only beautify your home but create amazing displays of color inside the home as well.

As the popularity continues to rise for these types of products there are all manner of individuals who are happy to utilize the beautifying effect that mini Tiffany stained glass windows offers, allowing them to create a large range of colors and lighting in their home when the sun shines through these particular windows. With stained glass windows in place, there is no end of the exciting and dramatic changes that occur to the beauty of the home as well as the lighting of the interior.

With more and more individuals looking to use stained glass windows to spruce up their home, it is not hard to see that there is no end in sight for the ongoing effort to beautify otherwise bland homes with the use of mini Tiffany stained glass windows. Simply by installing these types of products, the homes themselves can increase their curb appeal and the level of enjoyment that people have when viewing them. Anyone who might be concerned with the beauty of their home would be well served by utilizing stained glass windows in order to complete the aesthetic appeal of their greatest investment.

Shop our large selection of Tiffany Lamps and Windows Mini Tiffany Stained Glass Windows all at affordable prices.

And for all your lighting needs from lamps to windows go to lotsoflamps.com

Luck is What Happens When Preparation Meets Opportunity

You must be ready when an opportunity comes before you, opportunity often comes in the form of work and that's why most people seem to miss it. Most people are too busy looking for the easy path through life. They seem to lay around waiting for the opportunity of a lifetime,... to simply fall at your feet.

Why would you want to spend so much time complaining about something, or someone? Other people can help you along the way, if you let them, but it's up to you, ultimately, to become the most you can possibly be. I have had plenty of opportunities in my life and have took advantage of some, while letting most of them pass by.

I'm no different than most people but now seem to be aware of my surrounding opportunities, all the time.

How many times do you wish for an opportunity to come along? It's probably one that you missed already, at some point during your life. Are you going to be prepared for the next opportunity when it comes along? These opportunities seem to repeat themselves throughout our lives and if we're not in the right state of mind, we often overlook them and let them pass by, time and time again.

You need to prepare yourself in advance for the next opportunity. If you are prepared and have your eyes open, you will be able to see the next opportunity that comes your way. Preparation will increase your chances for success and good fortune always.

Opportunities come in all shapes and sizes. Be on the lookout, when you're walking to the grocery store, taking a break at work, reading the newspaper, talking to your neighbor, walking down the street or even while you are sitting alone, letting your mind wander away. Your chances for success could come while your in your quiet places, or relaxing. Be prepared.

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development.

Greg is currently working on a video library filled with great movies on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion.

Moisture On Vapor Barrier

What are some problems painting metal siding

Painting metal and aluminum siding can become a nightmare if not done right. Over the years I have worked on and repaired many homes with metal siding. Metal siding is real common in mobile homes. Most older mobile homes use aluminum paneling for their exterior siding.

Most painted metal siding seems to last at least 20 years. The reason for this is the paint is baked on in a factory giving it a high quality and nice looking surface. This baked on method is used for painting aluminum and most metals siding that gives the product a long life.

I lived in a mobile home park for a few years and my next door neighbor's mobile home had never been painted and was over 45 years old. He would go out and washed the mobile home once a year with some TSP soap while using a brush on the end of an extension pole to clean the home.

His mobile home might not have looked brand new but it was definitely in great shape. Over the years he had developed a few scratches and some dirt that was hard to wash off but that was about the extent of the damage to the painted metal siding.

Well we painted our mobile home and used an expensive metal primer along with some expensive paint from Dunn Edwards & Co... This paint worked great. We lived there for around four years and never had any problems once the home was painted. Having been in the construction business I knew we had to use a good metal paint primer in order for the paint to stick to the baked on paint process for the metal siding to look good.

Here's my advice to you when painting metal siding.

1. Make sure the metal siding is clean. Use TSP soap along with a scrub brush and scrub that baby clean. The cleaner the metal surface the better the new paint primer will stick or adhere to the old paint.
2. Follow the instructions carefully on the paint primer can when applying the primer. Do not paint below or above the recommended paint temperatures.
3. Make sure you explain to the paint salesman at whatever store you're in that you are going to be painting metal siding. Get the right paint primer.
4. I would love to recommend a paint primer but cannot because I don't want to get a phone call from anyone a few years from now telling me the paint is peeling off of their home. Let that responsibility become the paint manufacturers.
5. Let the paint primer dry for the recommended time as per the directions on the paint primer can. I prefer letting the paint dry at least one week. The reason for this is some paint primer's stay soft for a while and if you paint over them immediately they doesn't seem to bond as good and sometimes will stay soft for a long period of time.
6. Apply your final coats of paint following the manufacturer's instructions on the paint can.

There you have it painting metal siding is all in the preparation of the surface you are painting.

Have fun painting and always read and follow the manufacturer's recommended instructions for the products you are using. These people test their products constantly and know the best way to apply them to any surface.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He is currently working on more Building and Remodeling Library and adding useful content to help solve problems created by the lack of construction knowledge in the building industry.

Visit us and get more information on different Types Of House Siding

Escondido Remodeling
Exposed Waste Pipe In Yard

How To Paint Aluminium Sidings - Vista Handyman

This article is a Do It Yourself Guide on how to paint Aluminium Sidings. It gives a detailed step by step guide. It is a must read for people planning to take up this project.
You have purchased an old house and you observe that house is covered with aluminium painting. The siding is in perfect shape but its factory painted finish has faded. But do not fear, Aluminium Siding can be repainted.

A Step by Step Guide to Painting Aluminium Siding

One can repaint old aluminum rather than replaced. Here's the process

1) First check whether the siding is aluminum or galvanized steel. Galvanized steel should not be painted with any oil based paint; some paint manufacturers specify latex only over steel. Notice that the Galvanized steel will have a black siding. But remember that before painting the aluminium surface, it needs to be dry. If painting is done under wet conditions, the paint will not be consistent and it may have a chemical reaction and end up corroding the painting aluminium siding. In this way the painting and aluminium siding will last longer and you won't need much money in repairs.

2) Use any lime scale/mineral deposit/hard water stain remover to clean the aluminum by applying it .Thereafter agitate the surface with a brush or sponge and finally rinse it water.

3) If the surface is in poor condition such as peeling or chalking, you need to primer coat. Use a good oil based exterior primer. The use of an oil-based primer is preferred over a latex primer because the later generally contain ammonia, which reacts over time with aluminum to form microscopic gas bubbles, leading to premature failure of the primer (and hence, paint) surface.

4) Remember that a light sanding is helpful before applying the final finish coat on the painting and aluminium siding. Sand with a 150 grit sandpaper. You don't need to worry about using a sand paper if you are coating the painting aluminium siding with a latex paint

5) Add a finish coat of acrylic latex. Use a low luster or satin finish. It looks more like the factory finish. For a real smooth job, use an airless sprayer with a .017 gun tip. Always remember not to apply by exposing in direct sunlight which may lessen the amount of time for paint to be on surface. Let it dry after finishing

You can rent a professional machine in most areas.

You can also find more info on traditional wood siding and siding hardboard siding. Homesidingreview.com is a comprehensive resource to know more about home siding review.

Wall Spacing For Home Building

Remodeling and building homes over the years I have seen all sorts of stud spacing measurements in bearing and non-bearing walls.

How far should we space a framing stud in a bearing wall?

Most plans will give you this information. If you have a structural shear wall the plans will tell you what size of lumber to use at the plywood breaks. The normal spacing on a bearing wall will be 16 inches on center unless otherwise noted on the building plans. This is the most common spacing for studs in a wall.

How far can we space framing studs in a nonbearing wall?

I have seen studs spaced as far as 24 inches on center in a nonbearing wall. Over the years looking at the building code books I have found this to be acceptable for most framing applications. Do not confuse a nonbearing walls with a structural shear walls because there is no weight sitting on the shear wall.

Interior structural shear walls will require 16 inch on center spacing or less depending on the structural engineer and your local building department.

What are the disadvantages of spacing the studs 24 inches on center?

Using half-inch drywall with 24 inch on center stud spacing can give the wall a week or spongy feel. I have been in houses that have 24 inch on center's stud spacing and can actually push the wall and see it move. Using 5/8 drywall will solve this problem in your walls.

What are the advantages of spacing the studs 24 inches on center?

The only advantage in spacing the studs farther apart is the fact you will be able to save a few dollars on the overall cost of building or remodeling your house. I personally do not recommend this process because the savings is miniscule compared to the overall cost of building the entire house.

If you look on a measuring tape between 19 and 20 inches you will usually find a little diamond. This little diamond is another measurement for laying out eight-foot walls or floors. So instead of using 16 inch on center layout you can use 19 1/4 for stud spacing. This will save you an additional stud in your wall or floor joist every 8 feet.

I have been writing more articles on home construction problems trying to help contractors and homeowners build safer stronger houses.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as

well as the weekend warriors. He is currently working on more Building and Remodeling Library and adding useful content to help solve problems created by the lack of construction knowledge in the building industry.

Visit us and get more information on building and remodeling your homes in San Marcos Home Building

Exterior Metal Stairway

Recycling Your Old Appliance

Reduce, Re-Use and Recycle are three words that environmentalists take seriously. But these words resonate much farther than just in the environmentalist communities. Average people are well informed about the environment and are doing more to help protect it. Going "green" can be as simple as taking refundable soda cans to the local depot or donating clothes that your kids have out-grown. Other simple ideas include re-using old craft supplies or composting table scraps. But what about when you need to get rid of some really big household items? The 3 R's seem to become more complicated when you're faced with disposal of large items like appliances. Here are some tips to help you figure out what to do with your old refrigerator or stove.

Does your old appliance still work?

Maybe you've updated your kitchen and purchased new appliances but your old ones still work great. The first thing you should do is to check out your local donation programs. Many programs offer local pick-up service and have lists of families in need that would be happy to have a working appliance. Your neighborhood Salvation Army or Habitat for Humanity are great places to start or you can also check out here for more information and charitable organizations.

You can also check out your local Bounty and Municipal Programs. A quick call to your electric utility will let you know if a program is available in your area. In general, the appliances must be working and meet certain conditions to qualify but if they do you could be in line for a nice little rebate. Your municipality will let you know if they will pick up your old appliance or where you can drop it off for disposal. To get more details check out the Environmental Protection Agency's FAQ on disposing appliances or call your municipality.

Refrigerants Need Special Attention

Refrigerators, dehumidifiers and air conditioners all contain dangerous refrigerants, like Freon, which can damage the ozone if not properly disposed. If you have one of these appliances and they are no longer in working order or do not qualify for one of the above programs, visit the US Environmental Protection Agency's website for tips on proper disposal. Never attempt to remove refrigerants yourself as they can harm you as well as the environment.

Keeping our environment safe and protecting it for our children is everyone's responsibility. Make sure that you evaluate all of your options before getting rid of your old appliances. Choosing the option that helps out your community and doesn't harm the environment makes everyone a winner.

Gwen McIntyre is a Marketing Manager for PartSelect.com. PartSelect.com is a provider of appliance repair parts to help repair your home appliances. Partselect has a full selection of appliance parts for all major appliance manufacturers

Framing Exterior House Walls - Home Building

Framing the exterior walls with 2 x 6 studs instead of 2 x 4 can definitely add to the price of the home. In addition to the cost of the lumber, you also have an increase in the labor, insulation, window and door trimming.

The advantages for using 2 x 6 in the exterior walls would be the additional structural strength to the building and the ability to use thicker insulation in the walls.

One of the only reasons I can think of for using 2 x 6 on your exterior wall would be the installation of thicker insulation. 2 x 4 walls will insulate with R-13, which is about 4 inches thick and 2 x 6 will insulate with R-19, which is about 6 inches thick.

The additional 2 inches will be a 50% increase over the 2 x 4 wall. 50% is a lot, dealing with anything. Imagine if you got a 50% increase in your annual pay this year. This wouldn't be anything to complain about, would it.

2 x 6 also has advantages when you are drilling holes for plumbing pipes, electrical wires or heating ducts. Often plumbers and electricians drill large holes in 2 x 4 walls, taking a little bit more away from the structural strength of the home. Some plumbing pipes for example are 2 inches in diameter, drilling this whole through a 3 1/2 inch 2 x 4, only leaves you three quarters of an inch on each side if the whole is drilled exactly in the center.

Drilling a 2 inch hole in a 2 x 6 will leave you an inch and three quarters on each side. In other words if you subtract 2 inches from 5 - 1/2 inches, the thickness of a 2 x 6, you still have a 2 x 4 left over. 2 x 6 framing also gives you 50% more lumber and structural strength in the home. Again this might not sound like much but it is a lot.

If you live near a busy road or highway, you could use the 2 x 6 framing, only on the exterior walls that separate your living area from the noisy road. The thicker the wall, the tougher it is for the sound to travel through it.

The biggest problem with most home builders is the additional cost and this is coming right out of their profit. Most homebuilders, especially the larger ones, depend on every penny they can to survive in the long run. It's an extremely tough business to be in.

If you're building your own home, give some consideration to using 2 x 6 if you live in areas where the temperatures are extremely cold or hot. One of the only reasons to frame the exterior walls with 2 x 6 is the ability to use more insulation and this would cut down utility costs. If you live in a moderate climate, where utility bills aren't astronomical, it would not be cost effective, for you to use 2 x 6.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He has just finished a Home Buyers Guide to take some of the frustration out of home shopping.

If your looking for some more House Remodeling Pictures or home building ideas.

Roof Truss Repair

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.

Home Improvement Consumer Laws Can Help You in Many Ways

There are several home improvement consumer laws that have been created to help the consumer who are working with contractors for their home projects. These consumer laws are different in different regions but one must be aware of all of them to take maximum advantage as well as to avoid any kind of troubles. Here are some of the most important home improvement consumer laws that can help you in your daily life.

You Have a Right to Cancel Your Contract

The federal government gives you the rights to cancel any kind of contract you signed within three days. This law has been created to support a consumer who happens to change his mind after signing a contract. So, in case you change your mind after signing a contract, you have three days to cancel the deal without any troubles. You have the right to do so.

Don't Forget the Cancellation Form

When you cancel a contract, make sure you get two cancellation form of the contract from your contractor. One of these forms is for your record while the other one is for the contractor. You have to clearly mention all the details of the contractor, and the reason for canceling the contract. Make sure you ask for it from your contractor after canceling a deal. Majority of people are not aware of such home improvement consumer laws and they do not ask for any kind of documentation when they cancel a deal.

It is Your Right to Ask for a Contractor's License

Many states do not allow any contractors to work without a contractor's license. If you do not know about home improvement consumer laws of your region, you should make sure that your contractor is registered and has a valid license to work in a particular region. Otherwise, you might have to face several problems if your contractor does not have a contractor's license.

Avoid a Bad Contractor

Make sure that the contractor you hired for your project has a good working reputation. Otherwise, if there is any kind of complaints signed against your contractor, you will not be able to proceed with your home improvement project according to home improvement consumer laws.

These laws are different in different regions but you can always research on the internet and get yourself updated to use these home improvement consumer laws for your best.

For detailed articles on home improvements projects and contractors, visit http://www.theyarelocal.com/articles/index.php.

You Have To Start Somewhere

Dangers of Walking on a House Roof

Here's some things to think about before walking on the roof of a house. If you slip and fall off the roof you could get hurt seriously. For your own safety if you have no experience walking on a roof use extreme caution. I would even suggest using a ladder and moving the latter around the perimeter of the house if you are inspecting the roof for damage.

Here's some things to keep in mind before walking on a house roof.

1. If the building is above two stories hire a contractor especially if you think the roof has building damage.

2. If the roof is too steep stay off. This could be extremely hazardous to your health.

3. If the roof is severely damaged and has loose shingles or tiles, this could create a safety hazard as you slip on one of these loose shingles and possibly fall off the roof.

4. You should stay off the roof at all costs if there is snow or ice. Ice obviously is extremely slippery and would be difficult to walk on. The difficulty would be increased if the roof has a steep slope.

5. Now last but not least if the roof is wet you should avoid walking on it until it is dry. I have been on wet roofs before and personally slipped myself losing my balance but not falling off of the roof.

Climbing up on a roof and walking around is not child's play and should be left to an experienced professional . If you feel comfortable walking around on any roof please use caution. If you slip in the middle of the roof there is a good chance you will be able to regain your balance or have time to stop yourself before falling off.

I would suggest using caution near the edges of the roof. If the roof is too steep or you don't feel comfortable, why risk serious injury. Use common sense along with the proper ladders to ensure your safety and "Think before walking on a house roof."

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He is currently working on more building stairs books and adding useful content to help solve problems created by the lack of construction knowledge in the building industry.

Roofing Fascia Board Problem

Outdoor Living - Patio Cover, Pergola, Sunroom Or Screenroom?

Outdoor life in Texas can be unpleasant and downright brutal. With high humidity year-round and storms like Ike, Texans have a lot to think about outside the comfort of their interior space. Relocating to Texas from a less harsh climate, I started my outdoor living space education when I purchased my first "older" home. I learned a new language which included things like: Hardie plank and Hardie siding, screenrooms, pergola, and replacement windows. I quickly understood exterior painting was a must at least every other year if I wanted to maintain the visual integrity of my home. I was faced with making a decision to add a carport for the protection of a third vehicle and I struggled with making the decision between a patio cover, sunroom, deck or arbor.

It became abundantly clear to me; I needed a contractor who specialized in exterior home improvements and outdoor living space. The first job I needed to address was replacing rotten siding with a product that could withstand the Texas weather elements - and Hardie siding was the answer. Because the Hardie products do not rot like wood, are pest resistant and do not fly off in strong wind, I felt like it was the right product to use. The added bonus of the exterior paint lasting longer on the Hardie plank made my decision even easier. Once the new Hardie siding was installed, I turned to replacement window issues. Thank goodness for my trusted contractor, who took time to educate me on the best solutions for my needs. The work was completed and I began to feel as though the exterior of my home was ready for life in Texas.

The contractor, who I now had a comfortable working relationship with, suggested we turn to my outdoor living needs. Thus began my education in understanding the difference between building pergolas, sunrooms, decks, arbors, screenrooms and covered patios. Each structure had benefits and I knew any one of them would add visual aesthetics as well as added value to my home. Each structure offered various types of materials, colors, styles, and price ranges. My contractor explained that many of these structures were available in do-it-yourself kits, which could save me money and provide a huge sense of accomplishment upon completing the project. Wow, what a great idea!

Since my backyard had a pool, but not much else, I chose to build a covered patio and incorporated an attached pergola. I used the materials suggested by the contractor, who helped me design the entire project. I was so excited by the visual effects that I even added an arbor to the entrance of my garden. Through my contractor, I was able to order the do-it-yourself kit online. While online, I ordered the materials to build that carport I needed. The instructions were easy to follow and the materials easy to use. My Texas home was becoming a true show place and one with great added value!

Begin searching for that Texas contractor who has been in business for years, is licensed, bonded, and has a loyal client base. Exterior home improvements can be daunting, exhausting, and expensive. It is worth searching for the contractor who will help you assess your needs, discuss the scope of work, timeline, and cost. Hire the contractor who has the knowledge to install the Hardie siding and Hardie plank properly. Look for the contractor who can help you bring your backyard vision of a new patio cover, arbor, sunroom, deck or screenroom to life and begin enjoying your Texas outdoor life!

Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web. Learn more about Texas Patio Covers.

Vaulted Ceiling Insulation

How to Replace an Old Window in Your Home

A Guide to Installing a New Window in Your Home

If your old wooden window is drafty, does not open or close well, or is showing signs of water damage and decay, it is probably time to think about replacing it with a new state-of-the-art Low-E glass, vinyl clad window.

Also, if the glass pane associated with your existing old wooden window is foggy or you can feel cold drafts during the winter months emanating out from around it, or you need to hold it open during the summer months with a prop of some sort then it is definitely time to replace it.

Replacing an old window is something a Do It Yourself homeowner can tackle with some basic carpenters knowledge and a few basic carpentry tools that you probably already have in your home.

Purchasing the Proper New Window

Prior to installing a new window you first need to figure out what size window to purchase. The key parameter required when ordering a new window is its rough opening. This is specified by the window manufacturer and tells you how large of an opening you need for installing a specific window. Typically the rough opening is 1 to 2 inches taller and wider than the actual window itself.

You may need to remove the interior trim from around the old window to obtain the rough opening dimensions for your new window.

Make sure you purchase a new window that has rough opening requirements that are equal to or smaller than your measurements.

Removal of the Old Window

Once you have purchased your new window it is time to remove the old one. Using a hammer and a claw remove the old exterior trim and any nails that may be securing the window to the home. There may be a nailing flange around the perimeter of the old window. Simply use your hammer and claw to remove these nails.

With the nails removed the window should be able to be pulled out of the window frame opening.

Installation of the New Window

With the old window out, it is now time to install the new window. Before, installing the new window, make sure the rough window opening is clear of any debris and any old nails.

Place the new window into the window opening and center it within the window frame.

Use a level and a measuring tape to make sure the window is plumb and square, otherwise the window will not work properly. You may need to add some shims to plumb and square up the new window.

Once the window is plumb and square within the window frame, fasten it with a couple of nails. With most new windows they come with a nailing flange that makes nailing the window to the outside home exterior straightforward.

When nailing the window, start on the upper right hand side and work your way down with just a couple of nails. Check again with the level to make sure the window is level and plumb. Also take one more look on the inside of the window to make sure the window is square and centered.

If the window has remained square and plumb, go ahead and install a couple of additional nails on the other side of the window. Again, one at the top, and the other about halfway down the window.

Then go into the home and remove/cut away the retention bands that held the window square during the window installation. Slide the windows up a down and see if they operate smoothly.

If the window operates smoothly go ahead and add additional nails every 4-6 inches around the nailing flange of the window. If it does not, you may need to remove one or more of the initial nails installed and readjust the window to make sure it is plumb and square.

With the window now installed, add new trimboards around the window perimeter on both the inside and outside of the window and enjoy your new view.

For more information on installing a new window, see the Installing a New Window Ebook from HomeAdditionPlus.com. The Installing a New Window Ebook provides easy to understand, step-by-step instructions, on how to remove an old window and install a new one. Pictures are included for every key step in the process.

About the Author: Over the past 20+ years Mark Donovan has been involved with building homes and additions to homes. His projects have included: building a vacation home, building additions and garages on to existing homes, and finishing unfinished homes. For more home improvement information visit http://www.homeadditionplus.com and http://www.homeaddition.blogspot.com

New Fascia Back Not Painted

Rustic Teak Furniture

If you are an outdoor furniture enthusiast and want to give your furniture a rustic and natural look you must go for outdoor teak furniture. This type of furniture brings natural ambiance around you so that you feel yourself so close with nature.

Today, this Outdoor teak furniture is gaining in popularity day by day because of its fine quality and rustic hue. By having outdoor teak furniture, you can get a number of benefits such as its environment friendly character, durability; comfort, all weather proof nature. You can find a large variety of teak wood furniture such as Adirondack furniture and Adirondack chairs, log swings and porch glider swings, rustic chairs, wagon wheel benches, wagon wheel furniture and garden tables. All these types of furniture are available in different sizes, styles and colours.

Outdoor teak furniture is considered an appropriate choice for lawn and patio furniture. It looks both modern and indigenous. The elegant environment that one finds by having this furniture is unique. If you want your furniture to have a long life, you should go for cedar, which is one of the most famous types of teak. Cedar is pretty thick, and has solid wood. Therefore, you don't have to worry about weather aspects. The smell of cedar is quite aromatic.

The colour of Teak furniture is not subject to being faded as happens in the case of metal furniture. That is why this teak furniture doesn't require painting and merely a simple finishing coat will be enough. Most of the varieties of teak such as cedar, aspen and pine go through the process of checking, which is one of the features of these woods. This process happens when moisture is released by wood. But, the structural process of integrity of the wood remains unaffected with the process. This process of checking is only done so as to enhance the style of outdoor teak furniture.

You can find some other varieties of outdoor furniture and accessories as well like porch swings, gliders, bridges, etc. All these outdoor furniture and accessories are formed of materials of superior quality. Outdoor teak furniture can be used for various other purposes such as patio furniture groupings and deck furniture.

So, if you want to have the feeling of comfort, relaxation besides so many other advantages such elegance, durability and nearer to nature then Outdoor teak furniture is the best option for you.

Dave Clark has many years experience writing articles, he has also written many books, and is well known in the industry. Dave currently has many projects he is working on, he is also on the board of directors for Cushy Sofa a manufacturer and online retailer of Memory Foam Pillows, Memory Foam Toppers, Memory Foam Sofas, Divans, Buy your Sofa and Memory Foam Mattress direct from the manufacturer.

Wide Crack In Brick Wall