Changing Your Opinion With Small Kitchen Remodeling

Sometimes a smaller kitchen is adequate. One or two people who do not cook often, for example, may find that a small kitchen suits their needs just fine. However, even if little time is spent in the kitchen, renovating a kitchen can make it visibly look larger and provide additional space when cooking is done.

The first thing to consider when remodeling a small kitchen is the layout. Generally, you will find three small kitchen layouts: straight valley, L-shaped and U-shaped.

The straight and U-shaped differ in that the back wall in a U-shaped kitchen typically has a countertop and possibly cabinets on top and even some type of appliance. It is the opinion of many that small U-shaped kitchens are great choices for remodeling as it can open up the space and make it more user-friendly so that someone will want to spend more time enjoying the room.

For peerless utilization of the U-shaped space, it is best to always have the refrigerator between the cooking space and the entrance but never next to the oven. There should be plenty of counter space available for food preparation and cooking, as well as sufficient space to handle the dishes once they come out of the oven or are removed from the stove. It is often the case that small kitchen remodeling improves the flow of the kitchen area to match the cooking process, an improvement that can make the art of cooking far more enjoyable. You'll also want sufficient kitchen cabinets to store everything.

Adding to the convenience of small kitchen cooking, it is important to keep the utensils in a logical location in light of the cooking space. Keeping the utensils in close proximity to the counter space where the food preparation takes place will save time and steps, especially if two people are in the kitchen at the same time. Cookware should also be conveniently placed close to the stove to keep them in reach when needed. It can be quite frustrating when you need a pan in a hurry but have to walk around the kitchen to get it.

If there is room in the small kitchen, a small area of the counter may be used as a part-time dining space. This can still be done if the cou583nter is up against a wall. Simply slice out a section to open up part of the counter area to be used as a dining bar. This is a perfect example of how you should never accept things as they are without first considering what you want and being creative in how to obtain it.

A little creativity can go a long way in small kitchen remodeling. Take time to look at what part of a kitchen remodeling project will enhance the room's usefulness, space and enjoyment the most, then go for it!

Guy Morris's short articles can be encountered on different online sites with reference to kitchen cabinet areas. His abstracts on kitchen cabinets can be discovered on http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com

Bathroom Renovation Checklist

Planning a new bathroom can be a lot of fun, but not taking care of al2202l the details properly can lead to disappointing results. Use this checklist to keep track of the decisions that need to be made as well as details that should be discussed with your designer, installer or carpenter.

BEFORE YOU START Asses how much storage you will need for the following items. Keep in mind how many people will be using this bathroom, and be sure to take their items into consideration. Knowing just how much "stuff" you actually use on a regular basis will help tremendously when planning your cabinetry space, number of drawers or size of medicine cabinets.( ) Makeup (if you keep it in the bathroom)( ) Facial cream / wash / toner( ) Lotion / body cream / sunblock( ) Sponges / scrub brushes( ) Shaving supplies (Razors, creams, etc.)( ) Hair products (Gel, Mousse, etc.)( ) Hairdryer / curling iron, etc.( ) Toilet paper / tissues( ) Bath supplies (salts, bubble bath, etc.)( ) Shower supplies (shampoo, conditioner, wash, etc.)( ) Medications (if you keep them in the bathroom)( ) Traveling Items (Little bottles, mending kits, small containers, etc.)( ) Toothbrushes / toothpaste( ) Overstocks (Extra creams, tissues, toilet paper, etc.)( ) Cleaning supplies (if you keep them in the bathroom)
STYLES AND FINISHESCheck these off as your decisions are being made. You'll feel like work is progressing as you take items off your To-Do list. You'll also have a good idea of all the decisions that still need to be made. Keep a separate list of all the model numbers, colors and details you've chosen, this way, when a delivery is made, you can easily double check that it is in fact what you've ordered.
CABINETRY( ) Style( ) Material( ) Color( ) Finish( ) Hardware( ) Special StorageESSENTIALS( ) Sink(s)( ) Bath / shower( ) Toilet( ) BidetACCESSORIES( ) Sink faucets( ) Bath / shower faucet( ) Shower head( ) Towel bars( ) Toilet paper holder( ) Magazine rackFLOORS ( ) Material( ) Color( ) Finish( ) ExtrasCOUNTERS ( ) Material( ) Color( ) Finish( ) Edge( ) Corners( ) BacksplashLIGHTING ( ) Task lights( ) Ambient lights( ) Bath / shower lightELECTRICAL ( ) Outlets( ) Light switchesOTHER DETAILS ( ) Mirrors( ) Windows( ) Window treatment( ) Moldings( ) Baseboards( ) Door( ) Doorknob( ) Medicine cabinet( ) Shower curtain / doorWALL TREATMENT - GENERAL( ) Material( ) Color( ) FinishWALL TREATMENT - IN BATH / SHOWER( ) Material( ) Color( ) FinishWALL TREATMENT - ABOVE SINK(S)( ) Material( ) Color( ) FinishOf course there are probably other things you will need to add to this list, but at least you've got something to start with. It's also a great tool for planning your budget. Happy renovating!

By Marijana Kuljis - Professional Organizer

organized! http://www.youareorganized.com

Cabinet Door Hinges - A Hardware Option That Is Perfect For Improving The Look Of Your Cabinetry

Feel like sprucing up the look of your kitchen or bathroom cabinetry, but don't want to take on a refurbishing project to do it? If that is the scenario that you're faced with, there is actually an easy way to revamp their appearance. All you have to do is purchase some new cabinet hardware for it, including cabinet door hinges. With the new hardware in place, your cabinets will have never looked better.

Really, getting new cabinet hardware like cabinet door hinges is an excellent way to improve the appearance of your cabinetry? How is this possible, well it is becauE54se of their gorgeous look that is the result of the many eye-catching metals that they can be made from, which are then finished off in a number of lovely ways. For example, you can get ones that are made from brass that are then polished and have a bright appearance to them. Or, you can also get ones made from brass, but instead of the polished finish they have a burnished one. Some of the other metals they can be crafted from include steel, stainless steel, wrought iron, and aluminum while some other finishes are brushed, hand rubbed, and distressed.

What is great about all the material and finishing options is that it creates cabinet door hinges and other hardware of all different types and styles. Like, the ones that have the regular polished finish are those that are on the traditional side while the ones that are burnished would be more antique. There are other style options as well including those that are more modern in appearance and others that have a colonial feel, making it easy for you to find exactly what you want for your space.

When buying your cabinet hardware, make sure to replace all the hardware on your cabinetry. This is essential since if you don't, you're going to end up with this weird looking creation that will not be all that appealing to the eye. So, get everything from the start at that includes those cabinet door hinges that have previously been mentioned along with knobs, drawer pulls, and drawer slides. Yes, drawer slides because believe it or not, people end up looking at your drawers when you open them and if they see they don't match, then what kind of message is that going to send? Not a good one to say the least.

To easily check out all the cabinet door hinges you can get along with the other hardware that is out there, just go online and do some shopping. Really, online shopping is the way to go because you don't have to go anywhere besides your computer room to do it and in an instant you can breeze through all the selections available. And, when you do come across something you want and purchase it, it will be shipped right to your home. Really, nothing is more convenient.

Ultimately, if you want to spruce up the look of your kitchen or bathroom cabinets, but don't want to spend a lot of time and money doing it, just replace its hardware, including its cabinet door hinges. It's a simple way to make a great decorative impression and will have people coming to your for home interior advice.

Author Jennifer Akre is the owner of a wide variety of online speciality stores that provide consumers with both information and products perfect for either their indoor or outdoor space. Today, she offers valuable advice to consumers when purchasing luxurious cabinet hinges, elegant door hinges, and lavish hinges.

Installing Windows in New Construction

Installing a window in a freshly framed opening is one of the more simple tasks in a construction project.

Most new construction windows have what is called a nailing fin. These are found on vinyl or aluminum clad windows. This nailing fin is either vinyl or metal and has nail holes every 4 to 6 inches and about 1 and 1/2 inches wide. Nailing fins take the place of brick moulding which can still be found on primed wooden windows.

Not only do these fins make installation easier, but also make a better seal against water and air infiltration. These windows can be flashed if desired but not deemed necessary. A window that does not have the benefit of a soffit or porch roof above it may need flashing or a drip edge above it.

When getting ready to install a window, make sure the sheathing is not hanging into the rough opening. This could cut down the size of the opening and not let the window go into the opening. Once this is done, measure the rough opening to make sure the it is big enough for the window. You don't want to lift a heavy window to an opening only to find it won't fit. Rough openings are usually 1" wider and 1/2" taller than the window unit. Rough openings are spect and provided by the window manufacturer.

Depending on the size of the window, you'll need 2 or 3 people to install a window. One or two outside and one inside.

Once you know the window fits, lift it to the opening from the outside. Set it on the sill and push it into the opening until the nail fins hit the wall. Make sure none of the fins folded themselves back into the opening especially the bottom one. The person on the inside then centers the window in the opening. Then using a level, checks it for plumb and level, and applies shims where needed. You may also want to check the window for square, although a window that's closed and in the locked position usually is. The window can now be nailed in. My preference is roofing nails but 8d nails or cap nails will do the job.

If it is a standard jamb (4 9/16) another thing to check is how far it runs past the rough framing. This should be 1/2 inch. You'll also want to make sure the window operates properly. Double hungs should slide up and down easily and casements should crank in and out without hanging up.

(C) 2005 Mike Merisko www.sawkerfs.com

About the Author: Mike Merisko has been a carpenter for 26 years. Most of those years were spent in the homebuilding and remodeling industries. He was also in business as a carpentry and general contractor. While that is his forte, he also has experience in bridge building, commercial construction, and exhibit building which is how he earns his living these days. You can browse through articles by him and others at his website http://www.sawkerfs.com.

Green Roof Revolution

With global warming and pollution being ever-present topics on the news, it is important for everyone to contribute to making the world a cleaner place. One way 1C81to do this is to use ecologically friendly materials when building your home. The wave of the future is green roofing.

A green roof is a roof that is covered with vegetation. Essentially a rooftop garden, green roofs were developed in the 1960s in Germany, and have become quite popular in many European countries. It is only recently however, that green roof technology has begun to catch on in the U.S.

A green roof is excellent for city dwellers who often lack green space such as a yard or a deck. The addition of a green roof can provide a space to express one's creativity, and bring nature back to the city. In fact, by planting native vegetation, you can invite insects, birds, and butterflies that would otherwise have nowhere else to go. As an added benefit, green rooftops are aesthetically pleasing and offer a visual contrast to the pavement and steel that dominates the cityscape.

The environmental benefits of a green roof are many, and include the reduction of water runoff that occurs with typical homes. A reduction of runoff is good for the entire community, as too much runoff can result in flooding and water contamination. Because green roofs feature soil and plant life, these roofs are able to absorb as much as 75% of falling rainwater. This moisture is then released back into the air through condensation. A typical roof on the other hand is built to be totally waterproof, so every drop of water runs off and drains into the sewers.

Besides reducing water runoff, green roofs are also able to reduce the presence of toxins in the environment. Pollutants in the air and water, as well as carbon dioxide are absorbed by plant life and rendered harmless. These plants also produce oxygen.

Not only are green roofs great for the environment, but they are also an excellent investment. A properly installed green roof can last at least twice as long as typical roofing material, thereby saving you thousands of dollars in repair and replacement costs.

Green roofing can also significantly reduce your heating and cooling bills throughout the year. According to a recent study, building a green roof can reduce your heating and cooling needs by 26%. In cities especially, changes need to be made to the way that structures are built. Temperatures in cities are much higher than in surrounding areas because there is such a prevalence of buildings in a small area. These buildings are made with traditional materials, which absorb and then re-direct the sun's heat. Cities are therefore much hotter than rural areas where there are less structures, and more green space. In order to combat the rising temperatures, some cities are offering incentives to builders to add green roofing to their projects.

If you decide to build a green roof, you need to keep a couple of things in mind. First, there are two types of green roofs. Traditional style roof gardens, which feature large plants or lawns, require a great deal of maintenance. Feeding, watering, and soil care are all necessary to keep this garden in good condition. Extensive roof gardens on the other hand, have only a thin layer of soil, and require very little work to maintain.

Great for the environment, good for your pocket book, and pleasing to the eye, green roofs are a budding trend that can have a positive impact on the environment. Not only that, but a well constructed green roof can increase the value of your home by thousands of dollars.

Doug Jones is an award-winning San Diego REALTOR with a solid reputation for getting results. Learn more about San Diego real estate today!

5 Lighting Tips That Will Improve Your Home

Q. How can I improve the lighting in my kitchen? I'm always preparing meals in the dark!

A. There is a general idea that a big central ceiling fixture will provide all the light needed for cooking, meals and cleaning up. A central overhead light provides good overall lighting, but is a weak light for tasking. Everyone working under that kind of light will be working in their shadow. Undercabinet lighting is a good solution for food preparation because it efficiently illuminates the counter work surface. There are many plug-in varieties of xenon and halogen units that work well for this kind of task illumination.

For island counters, where food is prepared or served, pendants hung to illuminate the entire work surface are also a good solution. Pendants are hanging lights, either on downrods (stems), cords or chain, they can be positioned singly or in groups, just above the task area and light up the surface to make the tasks at hand well lit and enjoyable. Some pendants come in brightly colored glass shades for a contemporary look, or more traditional with faux alabaster glass shades and wrought iron, pewter or bronze finishes.

Q. We have a family room that has two table lamps in the corners of the room and a central overhead fixture. This lighting is not enough for my kids doing homework at the table, or me, reading or knitting on the sofa. What can you suggest?

A. Check to see if you are using the correct wattage in your lamps and replace your lampshades if they are darkened and clouded with age ( over the years this can happen slowly, the shade emitting less light because of deterioration). Again, an overhead fixture is limited in the light it can provide for tasking.

A good alternative is track lights which will provide good downlight to specific areas in the room. Track heads with little spot or flood bulbs can beam lighting down on tasking areas. Floor lamps that have multiple "goosenecks" or adjustable lights that can be directed towards many working areas can adequately illumintate reading and other activities in a multiple areas. Wall sconces placed in work areas provide a pleasant, semi-direct light and enhance ambient lighting.

Q. I'd like to have better light around my house when I come home at night.

A. Low voltage light kits provide good light along driveways and walkways. They come with various lamps and styles with transformers to match. It's easy to install low voltage lighting--these kits usually consist of a several lights which are on spikes that can be set in the ground and linked with wire which can be placed above ground, buried several inches down in soil, covered with mulch or behind shrubbery. Low voltage (12 volts of current) is safe for children and pets-the voltage is so low it does not present a shock hazard).

The transformer, which converts the standard 120 household volts to 12 volts, is plugged into a regular house exterior or interior outlet. Higher voltage (120 volts) provides the most powerful light for your driveway, walkway and landscape lighting. There is no transformer, wires to the light sources which can be spiked or installed around walkways, driveways, etc. have to be buried at a safe depth because of safety regulations--these will be in the directions for installation.

They are excellent for illuminating a driveway or walkway, showcasing trees, the house or the landscape. Placed strategically, the effects with this 120 voltage landscape lighting are dramatic and provide all the illumination you may require.

Q. My electric bill is too high! What can I do about it!

A. Replacing all of your present incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs will definitely lower your electric bill. CFL's (compact fluorescent lights) come in many wattages and styles. The CFL technology will expand over the next year to include dim-able bulbs and smaller bulbs in three-ways for lamps. Also, consider dimmers for any room in your house. When a light is dimmed, the wattage is decreased (you save money!) and dimmers present the option of just the right light at the simple slide or dial on the wall switch.

Q. My husband and I have a bathroom with double sinks. I like a lot of light for putting on make up in the morning. My husband likes to shave in the practically in the dark.! He says bright light is only acceptable after a cup of coffee. Right now we have a standard vanity fixture with six bulbs that are too dim for me an too bright for him. What can we do?

A. A dimmer will solve the light adjust ability problem, but only if you use the bathroom at different times. If you use the double sinks at the same time, you should consider separate lighting above each sink --that would require installing separate receptacles and wiring, and then, separate dimmers. You could then have the correct wattage for your applying make-up and your husband could have his preferred lighting for shaving.

Welcome to my lighting blog

Lois DeWitt is a certified lighting specialist, a cookbook author, "Pop It In The Toaster Oven," a poet and a Standard Poodle admirer. She cooks gourmet meals for friends, walks along the shore with her dog, Charley, and tends her vegetable garden in Wilmington, NC. She also works part time in the Lighting/Electrical Department at The Home Depot.

Choosing Cheap Bathroom Tiles - Practical Tips

If you are planning to improve your bathroom, you may find that the biggest allocation of your budget would fall under the renovation of the flooring even if you are planning to install the new bathroom tiling yourself. You can't, of course, expect to get the most sophisticated tiles if you are not willing to pay handsomely for them. But then, you must not settle for the obviously cheap-looking types. You should maximize the capacity of your budget to buy. But how to do this? Let us show you how.

First, don't fix your prospect suppliers to those who would obviously offer you the most inexpensive bathroom tiles. Oftentimes, lower price get lower quality of products. Don't go to the lower end selection either. You would only get so much. Try to look for options that would offer you the flexibility of choices. Try to look for suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and especially vendors at the mid-priced range. If you are lucky, you would find some vendors under this category to offer products covering the entire range of quality, types and prices.

Second, be sure to locate the bargain section of any do-it-yourself and home improvement stores. This section would usually offer you the same tiles that you can find in regular sections but at a discounted rate. Try to know why the tiles are being sold in a much lower rate.

One of the many reasons is that the tiles belong to a discontinued range. This means that the production for this type of tiles has already stopped. Thus, if you would want to buy this be sure that the supply you would have will be sufficient for the requirements of the bathroom. Another possible reason is that the tiles are seconds. Meaning, the products have several minor and major defects that may be or may not noticeable. This is not a good choice if you are very particular with the quality. However, you must remember that it is much better to have tiles at a higher strata of quality sold at a lowered price than to settle with those which in the first place, intended to command a lower price, therefore sacrificing the quality of the products.

Another best way to get cheap bathroom tiles is to wait for the sale which could mean as high as 50 % off the price of the product. However, you must wait until during January or February to get as many choices as you can.

Get the most out of the price range you are targeting when opting for cheap bathroom tiles. And if you want, try to compensate the current choice of items with more expensive choices so as to achieve a bathroom that hides the true price of the materials used.

For ideas on bathroom tile design, visit http://www.bathroomtile101.com.

Japanese Bathtubs - A Tradition For The Future

A Japanese bathtub, sometimes called an Ofuro, is usually around twice the size of a standard American style bathtub. It is deeper and often rounder, to allow the bather to sit comfortably with their knees bent. The water, which is kept at a high temperature, is up to the bather's chest. This position is said to aid relaxation and meditation, which makes for a very therapeutic bathing experience.

The Japanese bathtub is rapidly gaining popularity throughout the world. As people become more interested in personal wellbeing and healthy living through homeopathy and natural remedies, the Japanese style of bathing compliments these ideas perfectly. The hot water is said to stimulate blood circulation and have positive effects on the overall health of body and mind.

Another benefit of these unique bath tubs is that they are generally much more compact - deeper, but more upright - and therefore suitable for smaller spaces than the standard size tubs. They can also easily be adapted to become walk-in style tubs for the elderly or infirm.

The original style of Japanese bathtub was always made of wood. The natural wood was said to add to the therapeutic powers of the bath and was particularly favored in hot spring facilities and spas. Nowadays ceramics, porcelain, fiberglass and even stainless steel models are available to suit a range of pockets.

Bathtubs from Japan are traditionally for soaking rather then washing. In fact, actually washing in your tub would be seriously scorned by most Japanese people. Washing, scrubbing and hair washing will take place before entering the bath and soaking for up to one hour in hot water. The body should be clean and pure before bathing as any residual soap or grime will contaminate the waters.

In a Japanese public bathhouse - which are still very popular and well worth a visit if you ever have the opportunity - ritual and tradition can be rather tricky. Do a bit of research before you go and follow the lead of the locals. The overall experience is sure to be blissfully relaxing.

The basic things to remember are that no soap is to be used in the tubs. No outside or 'toilet shoes' (these are for use strictly in the toilet areas, and changed as soon as you depart the area) are to be worn in the bathhouse. Bare feet are not really acceptable as your feet should be clean to bathe. Nudity is expected, and since male and female segregation is the norm this is not an issue for most. Lastly, the water is very hot - enter the waters slowly and be careful.

Japanese bathtubs are noth the only accessory that can go into your bathroom. Visit us today to learn more about how to install a bath tub and why a corner bathroom vanity is something you should check out.

Aspects of Conservatory Sunrooms

If you have decided to build a sun room, it is probably because you are hoping to be able to use this room through the year and that means in all seasons. To do this, you need to consider the rooms design very carefully to avoid overspending your budget. Everyone knows that insulation is the most important factor in design with a conservatory, for example, but inadequate insulation doesnt necessarily save you money. First, if you have too little insulation (or too much), you may discover that your conservatory sun room is less comfortable than you thought it would be. Secondly, you may end up spending more money in keeping the house warm and cool than you would if you had spent the money in the design phase on proper insulation. Youll need to take a look at the building code requirements for conservatory insulation. and then talk about this issue with your contractor. Its entirely possible that by so spending a little more and exceeding those recommendations, it can save you in the long run e.g. if you were to dispense with the commonly-used 2x4 studs and use 2x6 studs instead, you would gain an additional insulating 2 inches for your room. After insulation, consider windows. Because they will make up the main cost of your conservatory, you need to choose them carefully. Windows do not only impact your homes appearance. but they have a functional component. Plus, they are a major factor in the construction budget of your sun room.

First. you should think about the type of glazing you require. Glazing isnt just for letting sun in - it should not only let sunlight in, but it should also keep out harmful rays and protect your family and you from the suns UV.

Some special glazes can retain heat in your sun room, acting as an additional insulation. The insulating properties of windows will depend on their cost and the material from which they are made.

Windows frames made of wood are normally the most expensive option, and these will need some maintenance such as occasional painting or possibly refinishing. But wood windows are relatively efficient too, in terms of energy.

Vinyl windows are very energy efficient, as well as moderate in cost compared to other types. Youll have a wide choice of colors and often a low maintenance requirement.

Finally. windows constructed of aluminum are less energy efficient, but are usually lower maintenance or even in many cases maintenance free. The clad style is very common, and these are relatively maintenance free, with energy efficiency that comes close to wood frames but at a far lower cost. Remember when planning a conservatory that whether or not a window opens and closes will impact their cost. So, the more non-opening, or fixed windows that you choose to include in your sun room, the cheaper your overall design will be. Think carefully about which of the windows will need to be accessible and opened or closed, and which can be non-opening in order to give you the flexibility that you need in using the room, without the additional cost of opening windows you wont really be needed.

Andrew Caxton is the author and editor of many resources published at http://www.allsunrooms.com He provides tips and advice about patio enclosures as well as on the patio rooms at conservatory sunroom

Remove Black Mold From Your Bathroom Walls

In order to remove bathroom mold, you will need a solution that can remove the source of the black mold. When cleaning mold and mildew, you have to observe the perimeter wall and also look for any sources of moisture. If you have black mold and mildew in your bathroom, it is most likely causing a problem with you and your family. By having these toxins which the spores produce, it will cause serious mold health effects. When removing mold, you will have to be sure to remove the source of the problem. Since mold a1109nd mildew are attracted to moisture and also need something to eat, you will have to find these sources. In more times than most, black mold and mildew grows on the wall because the wall is a building material which is a food source. When you have a high humidity value inside the areas of the bathroom, you will see dark spots of the black mold growing.

If you were to live with black mold in your house, you would feel some signs and symptoms of the toxins which the black mold delivers. These symptoms are caused from the excrement of the mold and mildew. Excrement is really the digestion of the mold and mildew. After eating off the walls of the home, the black mold delivered excrement which is toxic. Thus, while you and your family have mold issues.

In order to effectively remove the spores of the mold, you will need to find the source of the problem. If you have a water leak or some type of moisture intrusion, then you will need to find the source of this problem. By just removing the mold on the walls, and ignoring the source of the problem, you will still have a mold problem guaranteed. What mold inspections are about is finding the source of the problem. If you are clever enough to know there is a moisture problem you can then go ahead and attack the area using a natural cleaning product. Be sure when using natural cleaning products that they are strong enough to remove black mold effectively. Natural cleaning products are all about using regular household ingredients, but will effectively remove and prevent mold and mildew. The challenge with most green cleaning products is that they are not tough enough to destroy mold and mildew. Let me give you an example, most people will use bleach to remove the spores of the mold and mildew. But what happens here, is the mold is only removed temporarily. By using bleach you are only removing the topical surface of the problem. It is not attacking the source or changing the DNA make up of the mold and mildew. There is a natural ingredient out there which cleans mold and mildew and also creates a barrier to prevent mold growth.

By removing mold spores effectively, you will need to make sure the source is controlled. In order to control the source of the problem with mold. You will need a solution that creates a clear barrier or shield from you and the mold. This process is called an encapsulate. The encapsulate is a way which mold and mildew will suffocate because there is no source of food allowed. By protecting the walls of your bathroom, walls of your house, and other building materials, you have an ability to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. The challenge with black mold and mildew is taking away the source of the problem. Using bleach will only remove mold temporarily. If you are serious and have bathroom mold on your walls and in your house, then you need a strong natural cleaning product to kill mold. The natural cleaning product should be organic due to the harsh chemicals in other cleaning products. Have a look at Safe Shield to use as an effective natural cleaning product against mold and mildew. Safe Shield is also an organic solution and combined with Molderizer, it is a strong combination to effectively remove black mold and also prevent it from coming back. To increase the indoor air quality of your home, try an organic cleaning solution that will remove and prevent mold from ever coming back.

Effectively remove black mold from your bathroom walls with an organic cleaning solution.
Got questions about mold and mildew, get free mold removal tips by asking.

Cabinet Hardware Makes an Easy Bathroom Makeover

A quick and easy bathroom makeover would be the right thing for many of us who are bored with the old decor of our bathrooms and are ready to update. No need to fear any major restorations in the near future. There is a simpler way to make improvements without the messy work.

With a simple change of the existing bathroom accessories and cabinet hardware, you will have a totally new look to your bathroom within an hour or two.

No major changes or tools are needed except a screwdriver or drill (if you prefer) and the time it takes to decide what accessories you want and where they fit in.

Remember, the idea is to make a change, and this means that it is time to donate that toilet tissue cover to the charity of your choice and get modern.

You might find that you are amazed by all the choices available for bathroom accessories.

If your bathroom looks drab and dull and has been the same since you moved in, try brightening the room with bold colors and textures of paint.

If you had an obsession with the frog family, it might be time to change into a flower child and touch your inner peace.

For those who want a more sophisticated look, consider a lean toward a spa effect with calming16BD earthy colors.

For the romantic bathroom, reds and purples will bring about the right mood and adding a candle or two will give the right air for love. Make sure you have fun with the change and go a little wild.

To bring about the sleeker modern look, it will be necessary to give up those outdated cabinet and door fixtures. Adding themed cabinet hardware can really bring out the decor and color of the space.

If you have decided to add new paint to the cabinets or walls, adding new door or cabinet hardware can be the finishing touch you have been looking for.

Today, you can find every color, shape, and material used for the fixtures. Some of the better selling finishes are in chrome, nickel, gold, brass, pewter, and ceramic hardware.

Remember, simple is sometimes the best thing to add a touch of class. Door hardware falls under the same category as the cabinet hardware. Remember, the door fixtures will be the first thing you see when you enter so you might want to splurge here!

Things have certainly changed in the way of room decor. This means more possibilities for you to consider in your makeover. Allow your creative side to come forth and create a room that you will be proud to spend time in. Make it one you will want all your guests to see!

Whether you choose to go frilly or funky, you will be able to find bathroom accessories, door hardware, and cabinet hardware to fit. Once you are finished with your creation, run a hot bath, add some bubble bath, jump in and enjoy your new bathroom.

If bathroom remodeling is a challenge, try something easier. Change your door and cabinet hardware for a simple change. Let CKI Wholesale furnish your new cabinet hardware. Visit CKI Wholesale at http://www.ckilock.com/ to manage your makeover dreams.

Create A Perfect Bathroom Setting With Bathroom Stone Tile

Natural stone tiles offer durability yet require low maintenance. With the wide variety of stone tiles to select from, you can surely find the one that will suit your bathroom. Among the types of stones to choose from are marble, limestone, travertine, slate, granite and sandstone. With bathroom stone tile, you can put in a splash of hue, or you can just keep the tiles neutral so you can put color with embellishment, accessories and furniture.

Because of their inherent properties, stone tiles are very suitable for your bathroom renovation project. They are tough and resistant to stains and wear and they are available in an extensive range of finishes and colors. There are lots of things, however, that you need to consider in using stone tile for you bathroom.

Various Types of Natural Stone

1. Slate - This incredibly durable stone has a natural, untamed splendor and is really perfect for bathroom use. Slate requires little maintenance and is very easy to clean. In fact, you can make this stone almost totally resistant to stains. It comes in wide range of colors and its texture is rough, making it non-slippery.

2. Marble - This type of stone carries the look of refinement for many centuries now. It has a remarkable hue and its surface can be polished to bring out an unmatched shine. Because of these characteristics, marble tiles can truly help you in creating a remarkable effect in your shower room. But there are some important things that you need to know about this particular stone type before choosing this for your bathroom. First, its high polish, which makes it look so elegant, is very slippery when wet. Also, marble is delicate, making it prone to chipping. Furthermore, marble is the type of stone that's chemical based so if any chemical acids spilled on it, it will badly stain when not treated.

3. Travertine and Limestone - These stones have the same properties - they are more porous and softer than granite or slate. Their earth color makes them lovely in a bathroom setting. However, they aren't very resistant to stains and they are not as durable as slate and quartzite.

4. Quartzite - Among the available stones, quartzite is one of the most resilient and hardest. The color of this type of stone ranges from recurring sequential structures to multicolored unique patterns, depending on the kind of quartzite that's being used. This type of stone is perfect for your bathroom because of its resistance to water and stain, its durability and its non-slippery texture.

5. Sandstone - This stone is a sophisticated choice for your bathroom stone tile because of its gentle structure and earthen colors. The only downside is that sandstone is permeable and soft so it needs to be chemically treated semi regularly to avoid stains.

Other things that must be put into consideration are the color of the bathroom tiles, the finish, the pattern that you want to create and its maintenance.

For ideas on bathroom tile design, visit http://www.bathroomtile101.com.

Remodeling Porches Can Add More Fun to Your Home

Homeowners in Atlanta, Georgia found a way to enjoy the spring and summer without being disturbed by mosquitoes. They turned a plain porch into a screened-in palace of enjoyment.

Of course, a screened-in stump is not attractive or appealing. Creating a screened in porch that is enjoyable and eye catching takes a little more effort and the right tools. The environment also needed to be taken into account. The humidity and high temperatures of Georgia and the exterior of the house had to be considered. The first task the homeowners knew was necessary was cutting the inside of the frame to accommodate a slope in the porch.

These are the steps they followed:

1. They started with sheets of pre-primed 4x8 foot beadboard ceiling paneling was trimmed to fit.

2. Next they installed the ceiling panel and fan. Instead of holding the paneling in place they used a nail gun. Next they wired the ceiling fan and panel. The light and fan made the porch even more accessible by providing illumination for night time and dropping the temperature by up to ten degrees. Two people will be needed to install the fan. One to hold it and one to connect the wires and make sure the it is in place.

3. The 2x4 frame of the porch was measured to fit the screens that were installed later on. The vertical braces were nailed to the crosspieces.

4. A staple gun was used to connect pine and plywood beadboard interior paneling. The panel was level across the top but trimmed at the bottom because it needed to slope to handle rain runoff.

5. The hardboard exterior panels were put up one at a time, beginning at the bottom and moving up. The first panel had to be custom-cut due to the shape of the ground. The homeowners worked hard to match a pale yellow paint with the weathered color of the house.

6. The final step of the project was finishing off the screen. The vinyl grids had channels in them that were screwed right into the wooden frames. Aluminum or fiberglass screens can be put in to create a seamless look. Use a mallet to close the caps on the vinyl channels.

For homeowners that are searching for ways to renovate their porch, there are plenty of different ways to do it. Porch renovations can spice up a dreary backyard. They can also add value to your home if they are done properly. Find out what other homeowners are doing to improve their porches.

Vince Paxton's news stories can be found on countless web pages linked to kobalt tool boxes and kobalt tool box. His publications on kobalt tools are found on http://www.insidewoodworking.com/topto/kobalttools.html.

Famous Skyscrapers

Architectural design has advanced to a phenomenal stage where every modern city would like to boast having one of the tallest buildings. While criteria defining the tallest buildings or skyscrapers differ widely, listed below are the ten most popular architectural marvels of our time.

Empire State Building
A world famous New York City landmark and sky scaper, it rises above the island of Manhattan, about a quarter of a mile into the sky. The observatory is located on the 86th floor, 1050 feet above the ground and offers the most breathtaking and panoramic view of Manhattan and beyond from within a glass enclosed pavilion. Besides the observatory there are several tourist attractions, including, restaurants, shops and banks. It also has a New York SKYRIDE an independently owned and operated simulated helicopter ride and virtual-reality movie theatre. William Lamb, an architect at Shreve, Lamb and Harmon was chosen to design the Empire State Building in 1930

Petronas Towers
Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lampur lay claim to being the tallest twin towers of the 20th century, standing at a height of 1483 feet. They were designed by architect Cesar Pelli and completed in 1998. The 88-floor towers are constructed largely of reinforced concrete, with a steel and glass facade designed to resemble motifs found in Islamic art, a reflection of Malaysia's Muslim religion. The towers feature a sky-bridge between the towers on the 41st and 42nd floors which is 170m high and 58m long.

Sears Tower
Architect Bruce Graham designed the Sears Tower of Chicago in 1974. At 1450 feet, and 110 stories, it is the tallest building in the United States of America. The construction system consists of steel fram with bronze tinted glass curtain wall. The Sears Tower Skydeck observation deck and tourist attraction is on the 103rd floor, 1353 feet above the ground.

Bank of China Tower
Located in Honk Kong, in addition to being one of the famous skyscrapers in the world, it is one of the most outstanding achievements of modern architecture. The construction was started in 1985 and completed in five years by the architects I. M. Pei & Partners and Sherman Kung & Associates. The building standing at 1205 feet, is a grouping of four triangular glass and aluminium towers of different heights, all emerging from a single granite podium. The changes rising from a square base to a single spire results in a magnificent faade of angles and profiles that reflect the light and seem almost crystalline in composition. On the 42nd floor is a sky-deck providing a panoramic view of the northwest Hong Kong.

Chrysler Building
Rising at 1046 feet, it was considered to be an engineering marvel and the tallest building in 1931. However, it still remains the tallest brick building in the world. The tower is a beautifully tapered stainless steel crown supporting the famous spire at its peak. A quintessence of skyscraper design, the Chrysler Building is a perfect example of Art Deco and has a lobby clad in different marble, onyx and amber.

Taipei 101
At a height of 1671 feet, this high-rise building has surpassed all to become the tallest skyscraper today. Taipei 101 holds the world record in three of the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat's height categories: tallest to the structural top, tallest to the roof, and highest occupied floor. The 89th floor has an indoor observation area while the 91st floor has an outdoor observation deck, known as the highest in the world. The pagoda shaped design of this building is inspired by traditional Chinese architecture. The sectioned tower is also symbolic of the bamboo plant characterizing strength, resilience and elegance. The towers design specifications are based on the number 8, considered lucky in the Chinese culture.

Jin Mao Building
This building in Shanghai symbolizes the progress and advancement made by the Chinese. It boasts of being the first tallest sky scrape in the country and the third tallest in the world. A great blend of East-West architecture it denotes aptly the emergence of Shanghai as a modern global city. It follows the versatility model by offering retail at it base, offices above and the Grand Hyatts Worlds highest Hotel occupying the upper 38 floors. The magnificently designed building combines the elements of traditional Chinese architecture and a vastly Gothic influence.

Burj Al Arab
The Burj Al Arab rises to a level of 1053 feet, and is known as one of the worlds tallest structure with a membrane faade, 24-meter wide helipad. This is the tallest operating hotel building in the world and the design is influenced by the profile of an Arabian sailing ship. The Al Muntaha restaurant is located 200 meters above the Persian Gulf offering a panoramic view of Dubai while the atrium is situated at a height of 180 meters.

CN Tower
At a height of 1815 feet, the CN Tower in Toronto is the tallest building and freestanding structure in the world. It is considered to be the signature icon of the city and hosts almost two million visitors a year. The view from the exterior glass floored observation deck located 342 meters above ground is breathtaking as it is exciting. It also has the Space Deck at 447 meters, the worlds tallest observation deck with a 160 km view and the revolving 360 Degree Restaurant.

Hancock Place
A reflective obelisk sky scrape at Boston is an architectural marvel. It is regarded as icily magnificent wherein the surface changes as the day changes, each side reflecting the color of the sky it faces. Moreover, this dramatic effect is highlighted by the parallelogram shape of the prism, which provides uniquely differing reflections on adjoining surfaces.

The architectural buildings mentioned above are famous creations and literally considered architectural works of art today.

William Brister - http://www.architecturaldesign.tv - All about architecture

Financing A Modular Home - You May Like What You Learn

Are you hesitant to look into purchasing a modular home because you dont know how the financing will work? If so, you can relax, because the skyrocketing demand for modular homes now has banks and mortgage companies viewing them as mortgage properties just like traditionally constructed homes.

Financing a modular home is not difficult and buying and building a modular home will probably cost less than building a stick home of the same square footage. So your mortgage costs could be surprisingly low.

The Modular Home Manufacturing Process
Because sections of modular homes are all produced at a single factory, the materials which go into those sections will all be shipped to that factory from wherever they are produced. Centralized modular home production means cost savings; the materials used in traditional homes are bought from various supply housed and then delivered to the building site. And often the delayed delivery of one item can hold up the entire construction schedule, even if all the other materials are on site.

Another of the reasons for the lower costs of modular homes is that because their sections are constructed in the protected environments of factories, their manufacturers can buy materials in bulk, when prices are low, and store it out of the elements until it is needed to fill orders. And because those materials are machine cut with precision, there is very little waste.

Modular Home Construction
There is an equally small amount of waste in the modular home construction process. Each section of the modular home is assembled according to the homes plan, and mounted on a prepared permanent foundation. Because so much of the wiring, insulation, and plumbing is already done, there is little delay caused from various contractors not having the time to spend at your building site.

Once all the sections of your modular home have been fixed together, which is normally a matter of weeks, and not months, you will be ready to move in. You wont have to find and pay for alternative lodging, and keep you belongings in storage, while you wait for your new home to be completed.

All these lower costs mean that the amount of money you will need for financing a modular home will also be lower, and so will your mortgage payments.

The entire modular home process, from start to finish, is designed to lower the cost on housing. And the system works; financing a modular home, if you have been paying a mortgage on a traditional one, may give you a very pleasant surprise!

You can also find more info on Modular Home Mortgage and Modular Home Prices. 1modularhomes.com is a comprehensive resource to get information about Modular Homes.

Building a Concrete Driveway

Building a concrete driveway is one of those rare opt5B4ions that can satisfy most people's practical and aesthetic concerns. Concrete driveways are not only built to last long but are appealing to the eye at the same time. Granted, they may take a bit of time to build properly, because none of your efforts will feel wasted once you view your final product.

What Not to Forget When Building a Concrete Driveway

Building Codes in Your Area - It's possible, especially if you're living in the suburbs, or belong to a certain community, that driveway specifications may be subjected to certain community rules. Your village, for instance, may prefer for all houses to have similar looking driveways, regardless of the material used. Or, it's the choice of material that's subjected to certain restrictions. To avoid wasting time and money, do your homework and see if building a concrete driveway will result to any violation.

Put Your Plans in Paper - Before getting your still-unused carpentry and building tools and donning your DIY uniform, it's best to put your plans on paper and try sketching the dimensions of your proposed concrete driveway. Make sure that you scale your drawing properly to gain accurate results, and most especially if you've decided not to hire an expert to help you out.

If you don't know how to draw, please please please ask someone to do it for you. Don't be stubborn like other homeowners who insist on doing everything themselves, never mind the consequences5B4.

Submit the Necessary Requirements - Once you've become satisfied with the projected appearance of your concrete driveway, make time to submit the necessary requirements in order for the housing committee in your area to grant approval for your concrete driveway plans. It's possible that they'll be concerned with how your neighbors would feel once the noise of construction reaches their ears; to avoid any future altercations with your neighbors, make sure that you politely and nicely inform them of your plans. Gaining written permission from them won't hurt either!

Going Shopping - With the legal stuff done, the next thing to do is what women love to do best: going shopping! If any woman in your household is a genuine shopaholic, she wouldn't mind accompanying you in your buying quest, even if it's just a trip to the local hardware store.

To save on time and money, make a list of the things you have to buy, compare product reviews, and see what brands are of superior quality but affordable at the same time. As for tools and other equipment, consider either buying them second hand, renting, or borrowing from your neighbors or friends.

Excavation and Base Preparation - The pre-construction stage is over, and it's now time to do backbreaking stuff. First in the list is excavation and base preparation. Like most structures, excavating and preparing a base is required to give your concrete driveway a solid foundation5B2. It's best to take your time when doing this because one little mistake related to the foundation can cause the whole thing to collapse.

Building the Driveway - Once you've finished with the foundation, it's now time to build the skeletal part of the driveway itself. Always consult your handmade blueprint while building the driveway to ensure that you've done everything correctly and according to the measurements you've specified.

Sealing it with a Concrete Kiss - Once you're done with the frame, it's now time to apply the concrete and wait for it to harden.

Finishing Touches - Backfill and provide enhancements for the landscape.

Pros and Cons of Using a Concrete Driveway Benefits - Concrete driveways can be decorated in various ways, making it more easy to use as a complement to the house itself. It is also easier to clean during winter. Concrete driveways can also be sealed right after installation. Cons - Concrete driveways, however, are more expensive than asphalt driveways and require a higher degree of care and maintenance. Lastly, concrete driveways cannot be relayered.

Choosing to build a concrete driveway is a good decision to make in most cases, but of course, it's what the homeowner feels that counts the most. Just remember that when making a driveway, always choose a material that won't crack under the weight of a ten-wheeler truck but enhance the appearance of your house as well!

Lee Dobbins writes for http://concrete.subjectmonster.com where you can learn more about the wonders of concrete.

New Bark House Stopping Traffic!

When my husband and I bought a vacant lot near Charlotte Street ten months ago, we only considered one material for the exterior as we got ready to build a house there: poplar bark shingles. We were used to seeing 100-year-old chestnut bark houses farther up in the mountains, and wanted that same kind of no-maintenance durability for our new Asheville home.

Apparently not many Asheville residents are used to seeing all-bark houses, though, because the construction site has been stopping traffic since the bark went up in the fall.

Today, chestnut bark is no longer available since a blight wiped out all the trees. However, poplar bark shingles are a worthy substitute, and because I was writing a book about poplar bark shingles, we felt no reservations about that material. My co-author, Chris McCurry, is one of the owners of Highland Craftsmen, the company in Spruce Pine, N.C., that produces the shingles.

Poplar bark is a reclaimed forest material which would otherwise be mulched, burned as industrial fuel, or left to rot on the ground after commercial timber operations. Instead, squared by hand, then kiln-dried and carefully wrapped until installation, the shingles provide a hardy exterior cladding that never needs paint or stain.

Poplar bark shingles are being used not only for homes all over the United States, but also for commercial applications. The shingles range from " to 1 " thick, depending on grade, and come in various lengths and widths. They require careful installation over a plywood substrate and a layer of roofing felt, but once nailed in place according to manufacturer's guidelines they remain flat and stable for decades.

Our lot's small dimensions -- 3,900 square feet, or .09 acre -- dictated a small building footprint, in this case 30' X 32'. That includes a 24' X 24' two-story core of heated space linked by an 8' X 8' bump-out stairwell, with covered porches upstairs and downstairs in the Asheville bungalow style.

Builder Frank Wilson of Candler has overseen construction, with Asheville carpenter David McCaslin hand crafting stairway and porch railings from locust poles. Custom cabinetry by Carl Hankins, owner of Asheville's Kitchen Concepts (cabinet55@charter.net) looks like fine furniture instead of just cupboards.

The downstairs consists of a great room with kitchen and living/dining room, flanked by a guest suite with bathroom; upstairs there's an office and spacious master suite. The house has an energy-saving on-demand water heater and only an under-counter refrigerator, and the covered porches should diminish the need for air-conditioning.

One observer said, "It looks like it rose from the ground." That's exactly the feel that poplar bark shingles give a building. A squirrel took off running up the back of the house once the bark was on.

Nan Chase's first book, Asheville: A History, has just been published by McFarland, and her book Bark House Style: Sustainable Designs from Nature, with Chris McCurry, will be published in June 2008 by Gibbs Smith.

Author: Janet Marie http://www.abandre.com (This is one of the most popular articles that went out in our Christmas newsletter)

Highland Craftsmen (company who produces the bark shingle siding) http://www.barkhouse.com

Bathroom Faucets - Facts To Consider Before Shopping II

Selecting bathroom faucets requires some thought, and the mechanics and installation types of bathroom faucets was covered in my previous article. If you missed it, you should take a minute to read the first article.

Once you have decided whether you need a centerset, widespread, or single hole faucet, and have chosen between compression, cartridge, or a disc type bathroom faucet, there are still some things to consider.

Style Preference in Bathroom Faucets

This is bound to be an easy choice. Most of us seem wired from birth to a preference for one style or another. You know what you are comfortable with whether it is Country, Victorian, French Provincial, Tuscan, or C2233ontemporary. This to some degree will impact the finish you choose, but many of the finishes cross style lines.

Bathroom Faucets-Fit and Finish

There are so many style options in bathroom faucets these days, that it is important to see how they will coordinate and fit with other elements in your bath.

* Consider spout height. Many bathroom faucets are available with longer spouts these days, and the height and reach should be considered. For instance, the height of the spout may make a slight difference in how high you mount your mirror or medicine cabinet above it. Consider splash and make sure you have adequate clearance.

* When thinking about the splash effect, consider the depth of the sink and whether it is up to absorbing the water from the spout without splashing out or up. This is an important consideration especially in a household with children.

Bathroom Faucets and Finishes

* Bathroom faucets are available in shiny finishes. Chrome has long been the overwhelmingly popular choice, but there is polished chrome, polished brass, and French gold, just to name a few. These finishes do require more ongoing care to keep them polished and shiny. They are more likely to show water spots and finger smudges, so just realize that before making a choice.

* Many of today's homeowners prefer the brushed or satin finishes in bathroom faucets. Although stylish and attractive baths are what homeowners want, they prefer to spend more time enjoying them and less time with intensive care and maintenance.

* Satin nickel, matte chrome. brushed bronze, brazen bronze and other of the less shiny bathroom faucet finishes are becoming increasingly popular due to the ease of care they require.

* And of course, many more finishes such as oil rubbed bronze, Venetian bronze, black iron and weathered copper are being made available for great diversity in bathroom faucet finishes. Some of these are considered living finishes, and will change with time and use. They are designed to change, and if you purchase a faucet with a living finish you just need to recognize this as a natural process and be able to live with your choice in later years.

When selecting the style and finish of your bathroom faucet, keep other bathroom elements in mind. Consider how it will look with your countertop, backsplash, lighting etc. By planning and coordinating all the elements in your bathroom carefully, you should be proud of your choice in bathroom faucets for years into the future.

More tips on shopping for bathroom faucets, as well as purchase tips for medicine cabinets.

Having The Right Storm Windows

If you live in a hurricane prone area, you need to have all the protection that you can possibly have. There will be hurricanes that can happen at any time with little or no warning at all. There can be high winds at the speed of 100 miles and hour plus. The rain and the wind can last for many hours and make tress fall, windows break and even tear roofs right off.

There are people that live with this weather but decide to protect themselves and their homes. One of the better ways to keep your home protected is to board up before the storm. Keeping windows protected with the right sheeting will keep them from breaking and flying FBDaround the home. It will also keep the rain out and keep the inside of the home safe.

There are lumberyards and many building supply centers that will do great business in the days and hours before a big storm. People who wait till the last minute will have to rush and take what is left of the materials for their board up. They will use things like those that plywood and particleboard to keep their windows and doors protected. The house will look awful but no one really cares when there is a hurricane coming. They have to take down the entire board up mess when the storm finally decides to pass.

Many have a better idea. They will have protective shutters installed and ready for their windows on their home. The shutters and windows will protect the home during the storm and are very nice to look at when there is not a terrible storm happening. There is a one-time cost and this will help you save money. You will have little effort in closing them when the storm approaches and they will keep your windows protected from high winds and rain.

Type of protection

Having exterior storm shutters will be a nice accent to your home. The will provide a good and tight seal for the windows and keep flying objects from flying through and breaking the glass. They will also be great for keeping your home secure when you go out of town or on vacation. Anyone can put these up and they are very cost effective as well.

There are also manufactured storm shutters. They may be made from wood or vinyl. These will come in many different styles and will include louvered, raised panel, and many more. You can choose from any type of color as well. They are very easy to install and a great accent to any home.

Rolling shutters are made from aluminum or heavy vinyl. They are going to be use for light control on the bright and sunny days and then may be closed to keep your glass protected during a storm.

The DIY will also find shutters to be a good way to project and they will look great too. The shutters are going to make out of exterior tongue and grove boards. There are some good tips for building them you.

You need to measure the window for height and width. A window may not be completely square so you need to measure both sides and the top and bottom.

Put together the tongue and groove boards and clamp them together. Cut to length about inch shorter than the actual height of the window.

Paint or stain the shutters to the desired color.

Hang with decorative hinges

The hurricanes and other windstorms can cause terrible damage. They are not fun but they are a fact for many that live in these areas. Having the storm shutters and windows will help so much and protect your home from any damages and even keep your family members safe too.

The writer Peter Wilson is really passionate about ideas related to hurricane repair and storm protection. Sharing his passion in reports like http://www.replacement-windows-tips.com/storm-windows.html, the reviewer proofed his capability on things associated with storm windows and storm protection.

Environmentally Friendly Plans

The eB5Anvironment has become a concern in all areas of life including our choice of home design. Taking this into account with your next home is fairly simple and can actually save you money.

The Green Movement is the term given to a greater awareness of the environmental impact of many different areas in daily life. Our choice of dwelling is one of the important things that can have a great impact on the environment. This has often been overlooked in the past as we have looked for environmental culprits further from home. Eco Friendly Home Plans are design concepts for homes that recognize how much the individual home can help or harm the environment.

Energy consumption is one of the major issues of the Green movement. The ever increasing demand for energy has created environmental problems associated with the burning of coal and oil and the transport and storage of these fossil fuels. The eco friendly home will be designed as energy efficient as possible. The use of alternative cooling and heating methods such as solar panels will most certainly be a part of the design. Energy efficient windows and doors and insulation will be used.

The emphasis on energy efficiency in the eco friendly home plan is a win/win kind of a deal for the homeowner. The home that is energy efficient is contributing to the environmental well being of the planet, but it is also keeping money in your pocket through savings in energy costs.

Energy considerations are not the only ones in an eco friendly home plan. The choices of building materials and the landscaping of the area around the home are other considerations that can be done more or less environmentally sound. True eco friendly home plans would pay close attention to the source and content of all building materials from the actual building materials to the paint used to cover them.

In many areas, some of the ideas that have began as eco friendly plans have been moving closer to actual codes and laws. There have also been substantial tax credits offered for following Green guidelines in design and building. It makes a lot of sense, for a number of reasons, to make sure that your new home plan is an eco friendly home plan. It is one of those decisions that helps us now and does a little bit for the future as well.

Aazdak Alisimo writes home articles for http://www.HomePlansPlanet.com

Going Green with Construction Insulation

There is a new trend in construction building with environmental concerns in mind. In this article, we cover going green with insulation in a structure.

Insulation is one of the more urgent green issues in construction. Proper insulation can have such an important role in the reduction of energy waste in a home. The well insulated home holds in the heat and keeps out the cold. Today, with the wide spread use of air conditioning, the opposite is just as true and just as critical. Asbestos and vermiculite, compound containing asbestos, have been widely used as insulating materials. It was efficient and easy to install. It was flame retardant. There were many reasons that made it the popular choice. It was, however, highly toxic.

The story of asbestos insulation is a good example of the totality of the green construction movement. The concept is not about trade offs. We do not pollute our water in order to have more material goods from our factories. We do not foul our air to have less expensive automobiles. We also do not risk our health to have an inexpensive insulation, regardless of how efficient it might be or how well it prevents fires.

There are alternatives, and when we approach these alternatives from the perspective of totality, we often find they are better and less expensive anyway. In the case of insulation, one good example is insulation made from recycled cotton. The cotton insulation is 100 percent recyclable and it is non-toxic. The manufacturing process uses less energy than the manufacturing of asbestos products or even fiber glass insulation.

Another alternative insulation is vegetable oil based polyurethane. It is sprayed into the areas needing insulation and when it contacts air it expands filling in the space completely. This allows an extra tight fit that results in even better insulation than the more toxic insulations that it is designed to replace. These alternative insulations are free of VOC and CFC. These are volatile organic compounds (VOC) and chlorofluorocarbons (CFC) which are common toxic substances in older types of insulation.

Insulation is a major component of going green in construction. The conservation of heat and the reduction of wasted energy are important standards. Yet, green construction is not about trading off one hazard for another, nor reaching one goal by failing to consider its impact on other environmental areas. So, even though insulation is an important part of building green, selecting environmentally safe insulation is just as important. The good news is that, as is often the case, the right choice is not only the safer choice, but many times the least expensive option as well.

Zack Verde is with GreenBuildingCompanies.com - providing green building information.

How to Survive a Kitchen Remodel

You have decided to make the plunge and begin to plan your kitchen remodeling project. There are so many questions and youre not sure where to start. There are some steps you should follow to help you survive what is probably the most intense home improvement project you will ever embark on.

So where do you start? One decision that comes first is who is going to be doing the project. If you are thinking of making this a do it yourself project, take a long hard look before diving in. A full kitchen remodel requires a tremendous amount of different types of skills. Beside the obvious trade skills of carpentry, plumbing, electrical there is the organizational skills and decision making ability. If you intend to do the project as a couple make sure your relationship can withstand the stress. A beautiful kitchen doesn't outweigh a happy marriage.

The key to a smooth kitchen remodel can be summed up in one word, Planning! If that didn't sink in, read that last sentence again. I can't stress strongly enough how important the planning stages are in a kitchen remodel. There are a hundred reasons not to rush into a project like this. If everything goes perfectly while installing a new kitchen, it is still rather trying. Add some speed bumps into the mix and it turns into a pull out you hair experience. You will need to do as much as possible in order to not leave anything out. Read all you can find on the subject, visit forums, look in magazines for ideas and talk to your friends and family who have already took the plunge. Learn what to expect during your Kitchen Remodel

A modern kitchen today is a large investment of money. Cabinets and appliances are a major part of that expense. Thes5B4e are amongst the first decisions you will need to make. Even before you see a kitchen designer consider your alternatives when it comes to color and style of the cabinets. This will give you a base to start from. There are countless cabinet companies and different quality cabinets. When you finally get to a showroom that is the time to begin down the road of how much and how good a cabinet you want and can afford.

That brings up another important issue in the planning stages, a budget. You will need to determine what the total budget your willing to spend on this project. Without making a budget the price can quickly escalate out of control. A kitchen project that started at an affordable $15,000 without budget parameters can quickly turn into an $80,000 renovation. This will likely end in frustration and no new kitchen. Set the limits early and then work within those limits. When you have your spending limit figured out take off a percentage for unforeseen costs. They will almost always come about at some point. At least 15% in my estimation should be allotted for cost overruns, and that is pretty conservative.

If you do decide to do the project yourself or become your own GC, make sure you will have the time to do it. In most kitchens, especially in homes with children, not having a kitchen is a major inconvenience. A husband, who drags his feet getting a new kitchen installed, will find himself in the doghouse faster tha43An fido after he chews up the couch! The best advice I can give you is to do your homework. There is so much great info available on the internet today that it isn't too difficult.

Paul Forte has been involved in hundreds of kitchen renovations and remodels. To learn more and find out what to expect during your Kitchen Remodel view this page: Kitchen Remodeling Tips and Advice

Your Own Unique Style

Whatever your ideas for kitchen design, they can be done at many different levels of intensity and with every different budget imaginable. If you feel that you need to spearhead your design scheme and make real all those home design shows, then that is one option; if you'd just like to add a few doilies in a few key spots, that's fine too. Whatever your choice though, in the design relay, make sure that you have the full budget going in and that you have the time to finish it on the other side.

Find Your Style

Many people feel many things about their kitchen design scheme. While some will scale back because they don't want to go too far out, others will take one single idea and run with it. It is really all up to the individual and their particular style choice. Investigate all your choices, including custom kitchen cabinets when thinking about your new kitchen.

There are a few consistent themes which should be present and even these consistencies will vary from situation to situation. For example, the male bachelor pad will be different from the homogeneous, mother, father, sister, brother, dog, basketball hoop, front yard which many people strive towards their whole life. Even a single male bachelor pad will differ from a 'frat house' or some other situation; it really depends on the individual.

Grandiose For A Few Grand

Once you have determined exactly what you'd like your paradise home to look like, then you need to set about putting the elements in place. Some of the things such as piping and sinks you may need to hire people to put in. Even electrical or gas on your stove is something that most lay people wouldn't want to tackle themselves. However most of the aesthetic design elements are well within the reach of any person who is of sound mind and can match colors.

Once you have determined these final elements you can set your plan in motion. Just be sure that you have made accommodations for places to store food, cook, or just eat out if you are planning on doing the makeover in fast enough fashion. If you are of competent mind and feel comfortable in your own design choices then you too will be able to make the most of your living space and will truly be able to make the space your own.

Clinton Maxwell repeatedly pens reports on issues relating to kitchen appliances. Working on his detailed publications on kitchen cabinet and custom kitchen cabinets the columnist established his expertise on the topic.

Screening Your Contractor - 12 Important Questions to Ask Home Renovation Contractor References!

One of the most important elements of screening a contractor you are considering to hire is speaking with the references that you have been provided. Unfortunately, this may be the part of the process that often gets pushed aside for various reasons. There is no valid excuse for not contacting and speaking with contractors references-assuming, of course, you want to hire the right contractor for your home project! If you do not screen the references supplied to you by the contractor you might as well throw darts at listings in the yellow pages and save yourself a ton of time.

Remember, this is your home, your project, you are the boss and the results can be good or bad depending on the amount of effort you want to put in. Planning and lots of patience will help produce a "feel-good" experience and a successful project.

12 Important Questions to Ask a Contractor's References There is no better time to make a new friend than when you are speaking with contractor references. Introduce yourself and tell them why you are calling. Get on their good side and you'll find out much more than you bargained for...and possibly an invitation to see their finished product if they were really pleased with the contractor. Here is a sampling of questions you can ask a contractor reference. Add your own if you like:

What type of work did they do for you?

Was this the first time they worked for you?

Were you satisfied with their work?

Did they communicate well with you? Before starting and during the project?

Were they neat? Did they clean up on a daily basis? And after the job was completed?

Was the job started and completed on time? If not, why not?

Were they on time for appointments?

Did they call you if they were going to be late for a scheduled appointment?

Did you have any problems with their work? Did they address any problems in a timely manner? And resolve the issue to your satisfaction?

Do you feel their pricing was fair?

Would you use them again?

Would you refer them to others?

All of these questions are important to get answered. Some may not apply to every project but ask them anyways. Now it is time to get organized and make that first call.

Here is what to do:

a) Create a worksheet. At the top have a section for the reference name and phone number.

b) Add the questions above to the worksheet along with others you would like to ask. Below each question leave a space large enough to make comments to the answers you receive. Some questions will create more conversation than others.

c) Create a general comments section so you can document anything you feel could be important in making your final hiring decision.

d) Print as many copies as you need - one for each reference that you will speak with.

Finally, let the homeowner do as much talking as possible and listen carefully for hesitations to answering the questions or other signs of being unsure of an answer. If you get negative responses to some questions be sure to ask the contractor about them if you are seriously considering hiring that contractor6C1. After you have spoken to all of the references go over the sheets and find the pros and cons of each contractor. This will help make your decision of who to hire much easier.

Paul Lawrence has owned and operated Home Project Partners, a free Maine-based contractor referral service, since 2002. He helps bring Maine and New Hampshire homeowners together with reliable, quality-conscious, pre-screened home contractors skilled in numerous trades. Paul makes presentations to realtors and other groups that have an interest in his service. He has also taught adult education classes showing homeowners how to find contractors on their own and to learn how to properly screen a contractor.

For more information contact Paul at info@HomeProjectPartners.com or visit online at http://www.HomeProjectPartners.com

The Five Basic Types of Outdoor Decks - And How to Choose the Best One for You

When you're ready to begin building a new deck, the first thing to ask yourself is what you want that deck to accomplish. Decks can bring your family years of enjoyment, and add value and beauty to your home, but it's rarely a good idea to simply build a deck without a plan in mind, simply for the sake of having a deck on your property. Sure, there are other issues to address - like, what kind of decking material you'll use (whether wood or composite decking), what kinds of plans you'll use, and how you'll fit your new deck (or decks - who knows, right?) in with local zoning regulations. But for right now, it's OK to fantasize about exactly what kind of deck will beautify your home.

So, without further ado, here are The Five Major Types of Outdoor Decks:

• Porch Decks. Yeah, that's right - porches are decks. If you'd like to step out of your front door onto a deck that winds its way around to the back door, you might be looking for a porch. These types of decks are best for rural homes, or houses with a lot of land around them. Porch decks give any home a classic Little House on the Prairie feel - only without the horses and lack of indoor heating.

• Barbecue Decks. Looking for a place where you can grill steaks without feeling trapped in the kitchen? Barbecue decks have become more popular with the recent grilling renaissance that's swept through American suburbs like a warm front in June. Real wood decking, or some of the woodier-looking composite decking materials, are best for barbecue decks, where you'll undoubtedly want to keep the rustic, outdoorsy tone that comes with these types of decking.

• Pool Decks. Well, maybe you don't have a pool yet. But if you get a pool, well, you've pretty much got to build a deck around it, right? (Use this reasoning if your family resists your argument that decks add value and beauty to homes.) Pool decks should be easy on bare feet, so decking with a smooth, satiny surface is your best bet for these kinds of decks. Some decking manufacturers make composite materials specifically designed to be easy on bare feet.

• Second-Story Decks. Where is it written that decks can only extend from the ground floor? Nowhere, that's where! Second-story decks are great for parties, and if built right, can double as carports. These are especially attractive in rural mountain homes, where they'll blend well with a hilly landscape.

• Free-Standing Decks. As decks go, these are probably the easiest to build, since you don't have to remove siding, attach the decking to your home, or otherwise risk damage to the house itself during construction. Of course, these decks will need structural support on all sides, so it's best to plan carefully.

So there they are: The Five Major Types of Outdoor Decks. But listen close and we'll tell you a secret: There are more than five. The number is limited only by your imagination, carpentry skills, and budget. Try combining ideas from the above list: Maybe you can extend a second-story deck to surround your above-ground pool. Decks can be a wonderful outlet for your creativity, so don't stop at these five. See what you can come up with on your own.

Good luck, and happy decking.

Kevin Ott writes about home improvement projects (like deck construction, basement remodeling and mold removal) and a wide variety of other topics. He writes for dozens of clients, including Sequoia Supply, the premier supplier of decking material in the Northeast.

Visit Sequoia Supply at http://decksupplies.com

Different Types of Carpet Pile

Carpeting can be a major purchase for your home. You want it to have a long life, look good, and be comfortable to walk on. Before you choose your carpet, it is important to understand the different types of carpet piles that are available and their advantages and disadvantages.

Carpeting pile can be divided into four primary categories:

• Cut Pile: This category includes Saxony, Texture, Velvet/Plush and Frieze carpets.
• Cut and Loop Pile: This category includes Berber carpets.
• Level Loop Pile:
• Multi-Level Loop Pile:

Cut Pile

Cut pile carpet is the most popular of all the carpeting, with textured cut pile outselling all the others. A cut pile carpet is manufactured by cutting all of the looped fibers at the top of the bundles. This creates a carpet with yarn bundles that stand straight. To create a luxurious appearance the cut pile is pre-sheared several times. Cut pile carpet, as compared to other styles is the least resistant to crushing.

Saxony

In order to manufacture a Saxony carpet, the fibers are twisted tightly, cut and then straightened using heat. A Saxony carpet consists of two or more fibers twisted together to produce a yarn. The soft texture of a Saxony carpet works well in both formal and informal rooms. If you do not want to see foot prints on your carpet, then do not use a Saxony, as it will show all foot prints and tracks from a vacuum cleaner. Saxony carpets have a medium level of durability.

Texture & Textured Saxony

The best selling carpets are Textures. Textures work very well in family rooms, childrens bedrooms, and other informal areas within a home, primarily because of their soft feel under foot. Textures are produced with tightly twisted fibers and are set with heat creating a medium durability carpet. Texture carpets have a multi-color appearance that hides any footprints and other tracks.

Velvet & Plush

Velvets and Plush carpeting are manufactured with a uniform color and a light twist. Because of the light twist, they are softer than Texture carpet. Because of its visual luxury and feel, Velvet and Plush carpeting is perfect for living rooms, master bedrooms, and other formal areas within the home. These carpets will show all traffic marks.

Frieze

For high traffic areas, a Frieze carpet is recommended. Perfect for informal areas the fibers are made of a highly twisted cut pile carpet. Frieze carpets have short fibers that curl in all directions at the surface, which has the effect of hiding all footprints and vacuum cleaner tracks.

Cut & Loop Pile

Both cut and looped fibers are combined in order to produce a Cut and Loop pile carpet. With a medium density, it provides a vast array of textures and/or sculptured effects available in solid and colored patterns. One of the advantages of the cut and loop carpet is that because of the different levels of yarn the carpet hides dirt, stains and footprints exceptionally well. The carpet is used in both formal and informal areas in the home.

Berber

The carpet with the highest growth in popularity is the Berber. In an informal area, Berbers limit footprints and vacuum tracks. Berbers have a very high durability because they can have thicker yarns than other level loop pile carpet. Two negatives with respect to Berber carpets are, they retain dirt and are easily damaged by snags to the loops. Berbers are made of natural fibers such as wool and man made fibers such as nylon, olefin, or nylon-olefin fibers.

Level Loop Pile

For the best carpet in durability, ideal for high traffic areas and resistance to marks you should choose a carpet made with Level Loop pile techniques. These types of carpets are made by weaving even loops of yarn through both ends of the carpets backing. By using higher loops the carpet has a much more luxurious appearance. For easy cleaning a Level Loop carpet utilizing short and densely packed loops is easy to clean as they prevent dirt from filtering into carpet.

Multi-Level Loop Pile

The difference between Multi-Level Loop pile and Level Loop pile is that with Level Loop Pile all of the loops of yarn are at the same height and with the Multi-Level Loop the heights of the yarn varies. The Multi-Level Loop creates a random texture making it a good choice for high traffic areas. The primary negative of this type of carpet is that the small loops have a tendency to hold more dirt and dust.

For additional information on flooring products for your home or other renovation projects including landscaping and gardening, visit Renovation Headquarters

Aromatherapy In Your Bathroom - Making Sense of Scents

What comes to mind when you think of a long, relaxing soak in your tub? Odds are that you're thinking candles and maybe some essential oils. If you're not then it's a good idea to introduce you to them now. Including aromatherapy in your bath routine is a great way to add extra relaxation to the whole process of bathing. Not only can aromatherapy relax you it can also just as quickly recharge your body and fill you with energy.

Bath Tub Aromatherapy

There's a wealth of aromatherapy products that you can use in the bath tub - it's almost overwhelming trying to choose at times. You can choose from bubble bath, pure essential oils, bath oils right down to soaps and bath salts. Then you can go about what scent you want to use. If you can't decide which to pick and are on the verge of despair then why not try out an aromatherapy bath kit. These kits usually include several aromatherapy options, so you can decide which is your favorite.

Aromatherapy with Candles

Using aromatherapy candles is a great choice for people who want to enjoy bathroom aromatherapy, but don't like cleaning slimy residue out of their tubs or are concerned about the effect on their plumbing from all of all that slippery oily stuff going down the drain. You can burn several candles of the same scent or choose several scents that complement each other to create your own custom scent for your bathing experience.

Aromatherapy Scents

Certain aromatherapy scents can help you relax. Others will invigorate you entirely. If you're needing a good nights sleep then combine lavender, chamomile, vanilla or lemon scents. If you're needing an energy boost for a busy day then use peppermint, spearmint, rosemary or clary sage to give your body that much needed boost.

When you're going shopping for bathroom aromatherapy products bear in mind that not all of these products are created equal. Here's some tips for when you go shopping:

* Check the ingredients on the product and make sure it actually uses essential oils and not artificial scents. Artificial scents have no therapeutic value at all.

If you are shopping for candles, make sure the ones you buy do not have lead wicks. Lead wicks are potentially dangerous when used around children.

* Look for soy candles that have the essential oils mixed the whole way through the wax. Soy candles burn much more cleanly and the scent will remain right to the last flame.

Don't you just love a long relaxing soak in your tub? Why not make it even more relaxing and refreshing by trying some bathroom aromatherapy with essential oils. Read more now: http://www.bathroomcentral.com

Curtains Can Decorate Either Your Window Or Your View

Pick Of Your Curtains Should Go With The Surroundings:

There is zilch more hospitable than the vista of a house that is crammed with vivid yellow illumination. You will find however that most of these houses have curtains casing the windows. Depending on the type of curtain that is used the central of the house will be either less palpable, completely covered or you will be able to see right inside. You will need to decide the window curtains that you will get satisfaction from. There are many different styles of window curtains that you will be able to choose from. Many of them are quite suitable for all types of windows. There are styles that will however look best in certain backgrounds only. For this reason when you are looking to drape some curtains in your home you may want to consider a few facts. The first fact is how utterly you want your home bunged from snooping eyes.

Plain curtains can have precincts of ponytail that distinguish with them attached or complementary borders, made from fabric, can be inset into the curtains leading circumference. In both of these instances it is very important to get the dimensions spot on. A good rule to follow is that the width of the braid should be approximately the same as the width of the curtain border. Borders can be applied to both the bottom and the leading edge of your indispensable curtains but it is important to carefully miter the corners so that you end up with a proficient looking draw to a close.

Pole Curtains sometimes said as rods go afar function and broaden into part of the window design it. Curtains that are made to dangle from a extremity are made to reveal the pole when the curtains are pulled open. If they are cut in a tab top fashion or something similar, then the pole becomes part of the window treatment even when the curtains are drawn closed

Track Curtains recommend an absolutely singular style than Pole Curtains. The follow is not in the main part of the design and is usually made in such a way that it is completely covered by the curtain whether open or drawn shut. Track curtains are ideal for layered curtains and have the benefit of being controlled by a illustrate thread. People often use track curtains for a more formal look. It is important to remember that you want your room to be inviting, not overpowering. Choosing warm and subtle colors that pick up the color scheme of your furniture will only enhance the over all seem to be of your room. Whether you choose to hang sheers or drapes, cotton or swags, what matters most is that you choose carefully any window healing you mull over.

You can also find more info on Curtain Rings and Curtain Rods. Homecurtainsonline.com is a comprehensive resource to know about Curtains & Drapes.