Tips For Effective Home Lighting

Home lighting is an essential part of home dcor, and needs to be considered carefully based on a variety of factors. First, home lighting is required for specific tasks, such as putting on makeup and shaving in the bathroom; or paying bills and writing letters in the office.

Other lighting illuminates a space, so that the kids can play or you can move about without bumping into objects. Finally, there is ambiance lighting, which may consist of a chandelier on a dimmer switch that can be adjusted for a romantic dinner or game time. It is important to consider these functions of home lighting when adding this element to your living space.

The good news is that no matter what type of lighting you are looking for, you can find a decorative way to bring that illumination into the room. While many homeowners limit decorative home lighting to lamps, you can also get style and function from decorative overhead fixtures and chandeliers.

Look for fixtures that will coordinate with the rest of your dcor, such as wrought iron for a rustic look or brushed nickel for a sophisticated, contemporary touch. Ceiling fans can provide double duty by offering air movement and lighting at the same time.

There are many attractive models of ceiling fans that will add to the style, from rustic designs for the log cabin to bamboo fans that bring the outdoors in.

Home lighting is an essential element to home dcor, providing style and function at the same time. The right home lighting will make all the difference in the comfort of your home.

Lighting by Gregory offers Hinkley Lighting brand lighting products at http://lightingbygregory.com/lighting/category/hinkley.html Billings Farnsworth is a freelance writer.

Copper - Still the Metal of Choice For Heating and Plumbing

Industrial professionals, plumbers and most other machinist professionals in the United Kingdom list copper as the metal of choice for most fabrications. Historians can date the use of copper as far back as ten millennia and believe that only gold and iron were used before copper was discovered. The natural colour of Copper is red, though over time its colour can shift into green.

Copper has been used for a variety of different electrical devices within heating and cooling systems as well as for the pipes that service a house and its use has been common place for almost one hundred years. Recently, professionals in the copper mining industry have begun to raise the price of copper because they are frightened that the world's copper supply will not be able to meet the demand for the metal.

Copper is most commonly used for water pipes though United Kingdom manufacturing professionals have also begun to use it for the transportation of natural gas. This metal is the standard by which other industrial materials are judged and there isn't a single building code that doesn't allow the metal to be used. This is a durable and strong metal and scientists believe that it also has elements that stifle the growth of bacteria on its surfaces while simultaneously protecting humans and larger creatures from germs and other harmful substances.

Copper has proven to be one of the most versatile materials in the domestic plumbing industry. This metal can carry natural gas and water and is non corrosive and resists deterioration. There are many UK based companies that are so sure of copper's strength that they offer fifty year warranties on all materials that make use of the metal.

Domestic heating professionals in the United Kingdom have declared that the best heating systems that can be installed are radiant heating systems. The best metal for underfloor heating is copper. This is because copper pipes do not leak and the risk of household structural damage is minimal. Home owners all over the UK agree that underfloor heating is the best way to heat a home and the most cost effective method on the market.

Copper has also proved very useful in cooling systems because it can distribute cool air as easily as it can warm air. Manufacturers have begun using copper in cooling units with massive success. Copper works to increase the lifetime of the machines as well as their effectiveness.

Finally, copper has a reputation for being "green." The metal lasts for decades and easily recycled. Copper can also help people fight diseases while increasing their resistance to high cholesterol levels and coronary heart disease.

Tal Potishman, editor of Heating Central, writes articles about boilers, central heating, Forest Hill plumbers, underfloor heating and solar thermal. He specializes in helping save money by advising on efficient heating.

Remodel Instead of Selling Your Home - Home Tips

Why sell your home when you can remodel and create the home of your dreams

After living in your home for a long time, you may end up getting bored looking at the fixtures and decor of your home. The options you have for a change are to either sell the house and buy a new one, or a better option which is to remodel and create your dream home.

Buying a new home does not always prove to be a practical choice as you may have to shift the kids' school, spend more time commuting to your workplace, need more time getting accustomed to the stores and markets near you and of course, get your old home sold for the right price.

Keep your budget in mind

When remodeling your home, you will first have to keep your budget into consideration, if you have any additions or requirements to be added to your home and any particular style that you intend to implement in the house. The rooms that need most attention when remodeling are bathrooms and kitchens as these are the most used rooms, and have new accessories coming up that will make your rooms look much better than they were before.

Like if you lack a room for your kids or a guest room, consider adding this by perhaps adding an extra room to your home. You could consider transforming a basement to a game room or your garage into an apartment to give that extra space to your family.

If you like outdoor entertaining, you could consider adding a patio or deck to facilitate this. And if you are suddenly involved in becoming environmentally conscious, you could consider using environmentally friendly products in the remodeling of your home.

You get better rates by meeting neighborhood standards

Instead of just renovating and remodeling your home to your ideas and budget, with some research, you will be able to find out what changes will bring the best rate to your home in the future.

If you find out that your home is the only home that has only one bathroom, you could consider adding a bathroom to your home when remodeling. This is because if you can meet the neighborhood standard, you will be able to get a better rate for your home when selling it.

If you plan any additions to your home, make sure it is in proportion to the house. It should be an accent to the house, and not end up as a focal point. Your remodeling should always work to your benefit as it is not always that home buyers will like the house the way you have remodeled it.

Remodeling your home gets a better resale price

Remember that though you may be selling it in the future, you have to remodel it so that you are all comfortable in it till you sell it. It is not necessary to spend a fortune on remodeling; you can make quite an impact with a restricted budget.

Not only do you get a new home by remodeling your home, you also get extra years of pleasure, which may in turn increase the value of the home. This will fetch you a better price, if you intend to sell the house in the future.

James Tyler is the owner of Ace Builders, a residential remodeling company serving the Raleigh, North Carolina area. Tyler writes about issues relating to all types of remodeling and home improvement projects.

For more information, tips and advice visit http://www.acebuilders.net

Common Mistakes With Faux Finishes - House Remodeling Ideas

The elements of faux painting aren't difficult but there's always room for error here and there. Keep these important tips in mind and you're half way there.

1. Your end result is only going to be as good as your materials. That applies to paint and brush quality but above all to your surface. Think of it as your canvas. You're about as likely to achieve your aims on a surface coated with flat paint as you would be painting on tissue paper.

Eggshell or satin base paint is the best undercoat. Faux finishes don't work as well on flat paint surfaces. Paint also needs to dry slowly and flat finishes tend to dry quickly and the scope for fixing mistakes is limited. Finally, underlying flat paint just seems to dull finishes.

2. A few cents of commonsense is worth dollars of equipment. Don't bother with unnecessary gimmicks. Spend your money on quality paints and brushes instead. You don't need a special sponge applicator - almost any soft sponge will do. You don't need an artist's palette. Ice cube trays are cheap and actually hold more paint.

Don't waste that paint! You can always stick it in the freezer rather than letting it harden. Another money-saving tip is to use dishwashing liquid for cleaning brushes. You can buy fancy cleaners but a grease-cutting dishwashing liquid works just fine with water-based paints and with stencil creams, which are partially oil-based.

3. If your surface is pitted or cracked, it will need filling, and sanding when dry. A common error is to assume that that once your faux finish is completed your job is done. Wrong! You MUST seal with water-based sealer before painting, or your wall will look blotchy and diseased. Seal with a color that blends in with the rest of the wall or patches will show through. If you don't have that original paint, mix the sealer with suitably colored acrylic paint to minimize the contrast.

4. You know the saying: oil and water don't mix. Remember that when painting or suffer the consequences. The resulting curdled slush is not pretty. In short, know your paints and read your labels. Latex paint may sound like it's oil-based but it's part-water.

5. Not only is it true that mess is stress, but lack of cleanliness will foul up your finish. You need to clean brushes really well if you don't want previously used colors contaminating your handiwork. Running water and finger massage won't clean properly. That doesn't mean you need expensive professional cleaning pads. Check the kids' department: you can find cleaning pads there at a fraction of the price.

You need to maintain a clean working environment, especially when working for others. Small splashes on carpets can be handled without chemicals. Try nail scissors. Wait until the paint is dry. Adding water just spreads it. Then snip the soiled ends, strand by strand. This won't work on larger patches, so make sure you use drop cloths as a preventative measure. For disasters that can't be trimmed out, try product called Goof Off.

6. When using glazes, wet is the watchword! You need to finish in one seamless session. That means no bathroom breaks (so go before you start!) or refreshment interludes. Wet and dry edges won't mix, the dry glaze won't spread and it will show. Work fast, especially in hot dry climates.

7. You may not recognize your painting style, but everyone has their own unique technique. That's why collaborative efforts don't work. People can work together as long as they work on different layers or walls, not different sections of the same layer/wall. Your style can even change during a day: pre- and post-lunch. Plan your sessions and breaks to maximize uniformity in technique.

Ready to start your faux finish painting project? Get the designer walls that would make even "Martha" jealous! Claim your free "Insider's Guide to Faux Painting" and avoid all the common mistakes, get success tips, find the right products for the job and more.

How to Do it Yourself Cabinet Refinishing

Cabinet refinishing will definitely give a new look to your kitchen or bathroom.These can be dressed up to give also a revitalized outlook.Highly skilled refinishers can give you the help to transform your outdated kitchen or bathroom cabinets with the new look you want.It can be done in less time than you would think of it.

You can definitely achieve the new look in your cabinets with no more scratches, marks or dents.You can also make your cabinet hardware pretty modern in look now.
With refinishing, you can have the option to copy the look of different types of wood even if your cabinets are made of oak, cherry, maple, pine or mahogany.A quality kitchen cabinet refinisher can do this at a factory finish costing you only around half the cost of replacing them with new ones.
There are also professional color consultants and designers to help you make a choice for color to paint or stain your cabinet and choosing the right ones.


Further, here are the necessary guides in doing refinishing cabinets for stain:

First, you have to remove all doors and hardware.
Choose to replace your current hardware or keep it.
Better to use Klean Strip 3 chemical paint and stain stripper to remove existing varnish and stain.In doing this, be sure to protect yourself with proper ventilation by wearinga respirator.

Surfaces must be sanded with appropriate sandpaper, then dust and sweep well.
All cabinets must be washed with appropriate cleaner and or slovenal.
Determine and select your stain color.
The process now involves stain, seal, sand, varnish, sand and varnish.
Finally, restore all doors and hardware.


A lot of decorative effects will evolve from cabinet refinishing, especially with paint.You can achieve a different color on the doors or a crackle finish if you wish to have that.
Here are some of the means to refinish your cabinets whether in the kitchen, bathroom or elsewhere like built-in cabinets:

Painting Cabinets brings new look and style to the once old look.You can use a tough scratch resistant finish for easy maintenance.This is cheaper than having a new set of wood cabinets or vanities.

Glaze Use for Decorative Effect
This is used to highlight details and evolve a unique look in the cabinet.It is used over paint and it can make a newly painted cabinetry an aged look.
Use of Crackle Finish to Cabinets
It can create a different kind of look to the cabinets.With the right choice of paint colors, it can create a bold statement or subtle change.You can also apply glazing and crackling for a perfectly new look to your cabinets.
Cabinet Refacing
This involves the replacement of all doors and drawer fronts with new ones and installing a veneer of new wood over the existing cabinets.

Jaworski Coatings, Inc,
41375 Oberlin Elyria Rd.
Eylria, Ohio 44035
Toll Free Office 1-866-87-2114
Fax (440) 328-4539

welovepainting@gmail.com
http://www.WeLovePainting.com
http://www.Cleveland-Ohio-Painting-Contractor.com

Going Green in the Bathroom Benefits - Poway Home Tips

The tough housing market, tight lending practices by commercial institutions and across the board depressed economy is forcing more and more homeowners to be more frugal. Going green in the bathroom is one way many have found to save money in their energy and water bills. Many are still under the old idea that environmentally sustainable practices are expensive while in reality it is the opposite. The centerpiece of green bathroom remodeling is to save water and energy resources, while saving you money and us, the environment.

As consumers demand for products that have the twin advantages of saving money and natural resources increase, companies respond by making products that address these needs. Today, more and more companies are jumping into the bandwagon of making green products. The result is that the cost of these materials that are environmentally sustainable have gone down while their benefits have been appreciated more.

With bathrooms, it is much easier to go green than the other rooms in the house. By just following the 1994 water conservation mandates, many homeowners have simply replaced outdated fixtures and reaping the savings in utility bills immediately.

Going green in the bathroom benefits:
According to Mike Nagel of the National Association of Home Builders and Remodelers Council, "Americans spent over $230 billion last year on home remodeling, with energy efficient and sustainable products representing an increasing share of the market."

Low flow shower heads can dramatically reduce the amount of water used while taking shower.
Toilets that use less water than the standard toilets are becoming more popular. Dual flush toilets save water and have become the darling of some in the bathroom renovation business.
Bathtub and sink refinishing are lees expensive than total tear out. Reglazing a bathtub saves money, time and the environment.

Take for instance, a bathtub. It costs about $300 to buy a new one, but when the price of tear out, plumbing, tile setting and disposal of the fixtures, the price adds up pretty quickly. The price for total bathtub replacement can go from $1500 to $2500, depending on the part of the country the work is done. Bathtub refinishing is done in the bathroom, takes about four hours to complete, can be used the next day and costs about $450. Restoring a bathtub while in the bathroom, saves the energy that could have been used in manufacturing, and transporting the tub to the warehouse, store and to your bathroom. It also saves the landfills.

Going from the standard bulb to a low energy bulb saves money on utility bills. Using recycled or re-manufactured flooring materials saves valuable assets. Paints that are low in VOC have health and green benefits. Reducing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), will reduce health problems, from asthma to cancer. Be careful to use building materials like cabinetry, adhesives, caulks and paints that are VOC free.

Because the bathroom is affected by heat, humidity and chemicals from cleaning, hygiene and cosmetic products, ventilation, therefore becomes very important. Outside air is less polluted than the air inside. If it feasible to have a window that recycles the air in the bathroom, go ahead and enjoy your fresh air. Going green in the bathroom saves money, time, the environment and is a healthy thing to do.

Wilson Uche Ukah, is the President of Refinishing Stars, a bathtub refinishing company serving homeowners in Atlanta, Chattanooga, Nashville and Knoxville. Refinishing Stars, refinishes bathtubs, sinks, and countertops for hotels and motels nationwide. He writes regularly on green remodeling. Wilson can be reached at http://www.refinishingstars.com or sales@refinishingstars.com

Let's Start With the Bathroom

There are several house redecoration thoughts out there that you may use. It suggests that you be conscious of these renovation ideas if possible, prior to going forward with any house renewal yourself. This will assist you to be better informed and up-to-date and not end up owning a mess that will cost you several thousand dollars more than you budgeted for when you call in the professionals to clean up after you. You will have a healthier idea in terms of where to start.

Bathroom
Let's start with the bathroom. The preponderance of homeowners want to do home renewals in their washroom. They should recognize how to get off the ground. The first step is to examine the existing state of affairs in your washroom and decide how badly off it is. In addition, you should also decide how much cash you think you will have to spend on the project to make a difference.

You will also want to be more specific when determining the kind of outcome you are looking for from doing these particular home restorations. For example if you think that, your washroom is too little maybe you might wish to take out an adjacent wall so that you can enlarge the space.

Maybe it is only the shade of the washroom that you are concerned in altering or the kind of faucet. Make sure that you in fact put some consideration in here, and that you do not come to any conclusion until after you have thought it through.

Bedroom
When it comes to home renewal ideas for the bedroom, you can actually have a lot more enjoyment. This is not a room most people get to see, when they come to visit. You may actually go all out and do what ever you like.

You do however want to have at least some sort of a theme, and the greatest thought is to settle on a color, and make a decision on a shade. Make a decision on one that you will take pleasure in and that will not bore you or will not disappoint you in a couple months. If you previously have an irresistible theme that matches up, your work will be less demanding.

In spite of whatever type of home renewal you are undertaking, you really want to make certain that you are going to get it completed correctly. To do this you ought to speak to a professional. Discuss with them what you are preparation is, what you plan to do and ask them to give you some advice. This way you can be certain that you are on the right path and that you are moving ahead concerning things, in fact before you spend any money.

The collaborator Linden Walhard is really passionate about themes related to wall mount faucet. From his publications on best kitchen faucet and wall mount kitchen faucets the columnist demonstrated his depth of understanding on the topic.

Buying Discount Laminate Flooring

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Four Great Home Improvement Projects - Decks, Patios, and More

Expanding your living space by adding exterior structures is not only a smart way to add value to your home, but value to the quality of your outdoor life. There are many types of structures to choose from and virtually something for every type of yard and design aesthetic. Deciding whether to build a deck, patio, sunroom, pergola, covered patio, or screenroom is the first decision the homeowner needs to consider. The benefits of each of these structures are numerous, and any one of these structures will add value to your property.

1. Decks - These relatively uncomplicated structures are one of the most popular exterior additions. Decks can be made of treated lumber or composite decking material, which comes in a wide variety of colors and textures. The addition of a deck, like any other exterior living space structure, alters the exterior of the home and should be carefully planned to incorporate the style of the home. Consideration for the site of the deck should be given to take advantage of all outdoor conditions in order for the homeowner to spend time outdoors in the conditions they prefer.

2. Sunrooms - Another great way to extend living space with year round comfort, sunrooms can include heating and cooling, lighting, ceiling fans, tile flooring, and energy efficient windows. The addition of a customized sunroom adds light, gives the home a more spacious look and adds tremendous value to the home. Sunrooms blend with any style of home while bringing added visual esthetics to both the interior and exterior of the home. Customizing a sunroom to match exterior siding such as Hardie siding is easy and affordable. If an existing sunroom needs replacement windows for more energy efficiency, consider that cost as added overall value to the home.

3. Pergolas - Also referred to as arbors or shade covers, pergolas are a beautiful addition to any home. A pergola can either stand-alone or be attached to an existing structure and can be made of wood or termite resistant metal. Pergolas provide dappled shade and can serve as a trellis for climbing vines. Pergolas can transform a yard and landscape by adding elegant style to the backyard. Freestanding arbors can also play an important part in great garden design and can lead from one garden area to another.

4. Screenrooms - Screenrooms are making a comeback from the first half of the century, when virtually every home had an attached screenroom. They are a great way to add living space to the back or side of your home. Screenrooms allow for enjoyment of the outdoors in shaded comfort while staying free of insects and pests. Screenrooms are simple, economical, and can even be built using an existing patio or deck! Patio covers are another great option for expanding outdoor living space and staying out of direct exposure to the sun.

Home improvements, whether adding a carport, replacement windows for energy efficiency, Hardie plank or siding for a long lasting exterior, or upgrading exterior paint will all add great value to your home. Whether you are adding a carport to protect an extra car or boat or adding outdoor living space by building a deck, sunroom, pergola, arbor, screen room or covered patio, these structures are sure to add to the enjoyment of your home.

Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web. Learn more about Decks, Patios, and More

Design Your Own Dream House

In the past, designing your own dream house meant grabbing a pen and pad of paper and spending hours meticulously drawing plans only to scrap them once you made a mistake. It was frustrating work. But, times have changed. Today, there are several house design software programs that can do the same work. Even better, it takes less time and allows for easy adjustments for mistakes along the way. Once a frustrating task, planning your dream house can be exciting again.

Using Software To Visualize Your Dream House

One of the most common problems people have when planning their dream home is trying to visualize how everything looks. House design software resolves this issue. It can provide a 3D interface through which you to view floor plans, walking areas, structural placements and more. But, some software programs are better than others.

Use a house design program that comes with preset floor plans and templates to get you started. Often, even if you have an idea of how your dream house should ultimately look, preset floor plans can get the creative juices flowing. The software you use should also be robust enough to allow you to modify the templates in any way you wish as you're designing the home.

Also, the software should allow you to plan the plumbing within your home as well as the electrical system. Some programs will even let you plan custom trims for your windows throughout your home. The more robust your software, the more flexibility you'll enjoy in designing your dream home to your preferences.

Designing Your Dream Home

If you're planning to design your dream house, using house design software can save time and make the process fun. Software shouldn't replace the skills and advice of a trained architect, but will allow you to create your home without the limitations of pen and paper. If you make a measurement error, adjusting your plans is easy and fast. When you're using software to design your home, the scope of your plans are limited only be your creativity (and physics).

Source: http://www.homedesignsoftwareinc.com

Get our free house design software guide for information about kitchen & bathroom remodeling, deck and garden design, floor plan drawing software.

Sauna Heaters - The Choices are Many

When incorporating a private sauna into your home, the type of sauna heater you plan to implement will influence several other crucial decisions you'll need to make before the building process begins:

• Will your sauna be located indoors or outdoors?
• Will you need a portable sauna that can be moved to a new location if necessary, or will this be a permanent fixture?
• Do you have the necessary space for a dedicated room or separate enclosure for your sauna?
• What are your must-haves for the design of the sauna? For instance, will you need a built-in shower or changing area?

The type of heat source you choose for your home sauna will determine the options you'll have for many aspects of the unit, including location, size, materials, and layout. Sauna heaters are designed to produce heat and steam for enjoyable sauna sessions. Often, rocks are placed on the heater to retain the heat; when water is poured over these stones, it adds to the production of humidity and steam. Some of the more commonly used sauna rocks are olivine and peridotite, both of which can be purchased at your local sauna supply store or online.

In general, there are four main types of heaters that are used for a majority of today's home saunas. Among these varieties, you'll find a wide range of pricing and performance. Each has its own unique advantages and disadvantages.

Wood-Burning Sauna Heaters

Inspired by the original heat sources used by the first Finnish saunas, wood-burning heaters are still preferred by many purists today. This sauna heat source can be a convenient option for outdoor saunas with a separate entrance away from the main home, since the sauna can be positioned near the wood pile. The resulting ashes are also much easier to clean up if the sauna is outdoors. One potential drawback of wood heaters is that they require quite a bit of maintenance and attention. Also, if you don't have the time or resources to cut wood to fuel the fire, you'll need to make special trips to regularly purchase kindling. One other shortcoming is that sauna wood heaters don't allow fixed control over their temperature.

Gas-Burning Sauna Heaters

A popular alternative for the budget-conscious sauna user, gas heaters are powered by either natural gas or propane. Natural gas is far more economical than standard electricity, although one potential disadvantage is that not all areas have natural gas available. Propane gas provides a more portable option, requiring no hard-wiring from the sauna to an electrical outlet. One benefit of sauna gas heaters is that they warm up very quickly. Note that you will need to enlist the services of a certified plumber to run any necessary natural gas lines to the sauna stove.

Electric Heaters

First emerging in the 1950s, electric heaters are now the most common sauna power sources in the United States today. Some of their most appealing features are their cost-efficiency and ease of operation. Most electric heaters for saunas are equipped with built-in thermostats and digital timers, making it easy to set and maintain specific temperature settings.

Infrared Sauna Heaters

Growing in popularity in recent years, the sauna infrared heater uses cutting-edge technology to directly penetrate the body with far infrared heat, rather than warming the surrounding air as other types of heaters do. As a result, infrared sauna users enjoy a more immediate and direct therapeutic benefit from infrared's radiant heat. Infrared saunas use a much lower temperature than other types of saunas, while still achieving the same levels of warmth and relaxation. Some other advantages of infrared sauna heaters are that they warm up quickly and are easy to install and operate. You will, however, need to hire a certified electrician to make sure your infrared sauna is wired according to the local building code.

About the Author:

Kevin Urban is the editor for http://www.sauna-talk.com, the web's premier informational site on home saunas. Visit the site for our recommended list of sauna books and a great selection of sauna accessories.

Copyright 2008 Sauna-Talk.com

Permission is granted to publish this article on your site providing all links are included and clickable

Best Material to Be Used in the Bathroom

Everyone wants to live in a big house, which looks grand and beautiful. Though the bathroom is a small room, which you cannot personalize a lot or add a lot of furniture, there are numerous ways of making it look pretty. A simple way to do this is by using good materials for your bathroom. You have got to find and choose the best material to make your bathroom look more splendid. Here are some of the best materials to be used in a bathroom.

Material for the Countertops

You could start by deciding what material should be used for your countertop. There are many choices available from which you can choose. Before settling on what type of countertop you want, you must take into account factors such as its price, durability, maintenance, style and installation. Having a countertop in your bathroom is a must. You must decide on a countertop material, which is not affected by water, that is considering the humidity and water in the bathroom. Bathroom countertops are usually customized however nowadays you can even get yourself pre-made countertops. Some of the best materials that can be used for your countertop are marble, laminates, tiles, granite and soapstone.

Material for the Bathtub

Next you can decide on the type of bathtub, whether you want a luxury bathtub or an old fashioned one. Later on you can decide on the material for your bathtub. Again there are a number of materials to choose from while deciding on the material to use for your bathtub. Each of these materials have there own advantages and disadvantages. Even though these materials may be quite superior and good in quality, you must remember that over time they will be damaged due to use. Some suitable materials you can use are acrylic, marble, fiberglass, cast iron, enameled steel or porcelain on steel and solid surface.

Material for the Bathroom Walls

Selecting the material required for your bathroom walls is quite a task what with the endless number of options that are now available to you. But you must remember to make the right choices. You must consider certain factors such as it should be water resistant, easy to clean and durable. Also each material has its pros and cons that you must keep in mind before deciding on the final material. Some materials which are most commonly used and are the best to use for your bathroom walls are tiles which are available in a wide variety, fiberglass, acrylic sheet materials and marble and natural stone tiles. These come in a variety of sizes and colors to choose from.

Material for the Bathroom Floor

There are many options available when picking the right flooring for you bathroom. However you must keep in mind how the material handles moisture, whether it is durable or not and how the particular style will suit your bathroom. Materials that can be used are laminates, tiles which come in a wide variety of styles and surfaces and also vinyl flooring.

Keeping all these suggestions in mind you can now decide on how to remodel or design your bathroom according to your preferences.

Marble City Company is the leading installer and largest importer of granite slabs in the Bay Area, California.

Copper Chimney Caps Are an Aesthetically Pleasing Addition to Chimneys

Not only is a copper top a useful feature for homes and buildings in any climate, it is also a distinctive and beautiful adornment for any roofline. The beauty of copper is obvious regardless of how it is taken care of and care and look are actually based on the personal preference of the property owner or resident. Some homeowners and property owners love the look that a shiny copper chimney cap has to offer. On the other hand some people prefer the natural look of copper as an aesthetically pleasing addition to their roof and chimney.

Natural copper chimney caps do not require any maintenance to maintain their appearance. On the other hand, shiny copper, unlike natural, requires a great deal of maintenance. It needs frequently cleaning and shining to retain its glory, otherwise the copper patina into a green color that some people may not enjoy.

There are several benefits to copper chimney tops. Some of these benefits include keeping unwanted items and creatures out of a chimney, preventing water damage and lessening a chimney draft. In fact, a copper cap is often the least expensive way to fix and prevent problems in a chimney.

A copper cap has many uses because a chimney itself is a multi-functional item. One of the most popular reasons that chimneys are used in a home or building is as an accessory for a heating device, like a fireplace, a palette stove or a wood stove. The smoke from these heat sources escapes out of the chimney and keeps the house or commercial building clean and smoke free.

A copper chimney top works well when installed by a professional. While these caps are best when installed by a professional; they can be installed by a homeowner with the right precautions, especially if the homeowner is experienced or knowledgeable in the area of roofs and chimney care.

There are a few things that should happen prior to purchasing a copper chimney cap it is imperative that a chimney is measured properly and the flues are accurately counted. These measurements and counts are essential in obtaining the correct chimney cap for a specific chimney. The wrong measurements can result in the inappropriate size of a chimney cap. The wrong size will result in a poor functioning cap or top.

The measuring and description process require a trip up to the roof to examine the chimney closely. This trip requires the proper safety precautions for walking on the roof. Roofs can be steep and therefore are easy to fall off of. If a homeowner is unenthusiastic about traipsing around the roof and chimney, a chimney sweep or other chimney professional should be called out to take accurate measurements for copper chimney caps.

There are many sizes for copper chimney caps. Different sizes fit different types of chimneys and is important for them to fit properly. Proper fit ensures the right functions and uses for the chimney caps.

Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for Web sites on gardening, biking, fashion, and home decor. Her background also includes running, yoga, and tattoos. For more of her useful information on chimney tops visit Copper Chimney Caps.

Advantages Of Using A Sump Pump Cover

Eighty five percent of homes in the US experience a flooded basement sooner or later - these are the estimates from home builders and insurance providers.

The sump pump was invented to handle minor basement flooding problems, and this solution came with it's own set of new problems. Questions about safety soon arouse with this machinery open and exposed. Also, small animals could get stuck in the sump pit. Unable to escape it could clog the system, as well as cause an unpleasant mess when it came time to cleanup.

These issues, of course lead to the sump pump cover being made available.

Installing a sump pump cover gives the security and peace of mind that no one can bump, step on, or otherwise damage the unit - leaving your basement unprotected. And no foreign objects will be able to enter the sump pit causing malfunction or inefficiency.

Today, more and more systems are sold with a complete line of accessories, which includes a cover. Other sources of sump pump covers are specialty home stores that sometimes carry these items sold separately from a pump unit.

Now days, it is fairly standard for sump pumps sold in the United States to include covers. If you are outside the United States, or in need of a cover for an older installation, check the specialty home stores near you.

Safety issues

Do not be tempted to leave the cover off after any routine servicing or maintenance. The system can run just fine without it, so long as it doesn't get damaged, or objects get caught in the sump pit possibly causing failure. You will probably never even know about any such damage until you need your basement sump pump the most.

One final advantage is the dust and dirt that is kept away from the workings. Keeping this dirt away helps keep the system from overheating and ensures a long service life of your sump pump system. There's really no disadvantage to using a sump pump cover. Without one, you risk premature failure when you need your sump pump the most.

Pumps-and-Filters.com presents Sump pump covers - if you don't have a cover now, you'll want one - See Sump pump covers

Going Green in the Bathroom Benefits

The tough housing market, tight lending practices by commercial institutions and across the board depressed economy is forcing more and more homeowners to be more frugal. Going green in the bathroom is one way many have found to save money in their energy and water bills. Many are still under the old idea that environmentally sustainable practices are expensive while in reality it is the opposite. The centerpiece of green bathroom remodeling is to save water and energy resources, while saving you money and us, the environment.

As consumers demand for products that have the twin advantages of saving money and natural resources increase, companies respond by making products that address these needs. Today, more and more companies are jumping into the bandwagon of making green products. The result is that the cost of these materials that are environmentally sustainable have gone down while their benefits have been appreciated more.

With bathrooms, it is much easier to go green than the other rooms in the house. By just following the 1994 water conservation mandates, many homeowners have simply replaced outdated fixtures and reaping the savings in utility bills immediately.

Going green in the bathroom benefits:
According to Mike Nagel of the National Association of Home Builders and Remodelers Council, "Americans spent over $230 billion last year on home remodeling, with energy efficient and sustainable products representing an increasing share of the market."

Low flow shower heads can dramatically reduce the amount of water used while taking shower.
Toilets that use less water than the standard toilets are becoming more popular. Dual flush toilets save water and have become the darling of some in the bathroom renovation business.
Bathtub and sink refinishing are lees expensive than total tear out. Reglazing a bathtub saves money, time and the environment.

Take for instance, a bathtub. It costs about $300 to buy a new one, but when the price of tear out, plumbing, tile setting and disposal of the fixtures, the price adds up pretty quickly. The price for total bathtub replacement can go from $1500 to $2500, depending on the part of the country the work is done. Bathtub refinishing is done in the bathroom, takes about four hours to complete, can be used the next day and costs about $450. Restoring a bathtub while in the bathroom, saves the energy that could have been used in manufacturing, and transporting the tub to the warehouse, store and to your bathroom. It also saves the landfills.

Going from the standard bulb to a low energy bulb saves money on utility bills. Using recycled or re-manufactured flooring materials saves valuable assets. Paints that are low in VOC have health and green benefits. Reducing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), will reduce health problems, from asthma to cancer. Be careful to use building materials like cabinetry, adhesives, caulks and paints that are VOC free.

Because the bathroom is affected by heat, humidity and chemicals from cleaning, hygiene and cosmetic products, ventilation, therefore becomes very important. Outside air is less polluted than the air inside. If it feasible to have a window that recycles the air in the bathroom, go ahead and enjoy your fresh air. Going green in the bathroom saves money, time, the environment and is a healthy thing to do.

Wilson Uche Ukah, is the President of Refinishing Stars, a bathtub refinishing company serving homeowners in Atlanta, Chattanooga, Nashville and Knoxville. Refinishing Stars, refinishes bathtubs, sinks, and countertops for hotels and motels nationwide. He writes regularly on green remodeling. Wilson can be reached at http://www.refinishingstars.com or sales@refinishingstars.com

Finding a Good Deck Builder

An outdoor deck is becoming an increasingly important asset to the homeowner and family because it provides a perfect space to enjoy the good life in the outdoors day or night. So it's important to find a qualified deck builder who can construct this new outdoor living space for you.

The search involves five simple steps.

Step one involves asking relatives, friends and neighbors about contractors who have worked for them. Try talking to staff at the home improvement retail outlets for deck builder contractors that they recommend.Try contacting your local home builder association for a list of recommended deck building contractors. And finally, look in the Yellow Pages for companies that specialize in deck building.

Once you have decided upon at least three companies to provide you with a deck estimate complete step two. This involves checking with the Better Business Bureau to discover if they are members. Arrange for a time when each of these deck builders can come to your home and discuss your project. Explain clearly when they arrive what you want in terms of deck shape, dimensions, materials to be used, railing type, stair type and placement as well as any special features that you wish built.

In step three ask the deck builder to provide customer references for projects similar to yours. Make a point to call these homeowners. Ask them if the work was done properly and if the work was completed on time. Ask if the project was completed on budget and find out if any follow-up work was required. Inquire if the follow-up work was done satisfactorily. Determine if these customers would hire the contractor again.

Most importantly, go and see for yourself the work done by this deck builder on projects that are similar to yours.

Step four deals with ensuring that you are protected from any risks:

1. Check to see that the deck builder has a registered, legitimate business license.

2. Ensure that the contractor has business liability insurance in case he or she damages your home or a neighbor's or causes an injury to a third party like your neighbor.

3. Make sure that the deck builder has worker compensation coverage to protect against the risk of claims or financial loss if a worker is injured on your project.

4. Ensure that the contractor's written warranty specifies what is covered and for how long.

5. Make sure that the contractor's name, address, telephone number and business license number are on the contract.

6. Check that the contract contains a full description of the work to be done as well as the materials and products to be used in the construction process.

7. Ensure that the contract states when the work will start and when it will be completed.

Step five involves making sure that a building permit is obtained for the project by the contractor. This will automatically guarantee that the local building codes are complied with and that a local building inspector will visit at required intervals to check on the progress and quality of your deck's construction.

Following these five steps will make the construction process stress free because you will have found a good deck builder qualified to do the job professionally and honestly and who will completed the project to your satisfaction.

So, save yourself a lot of headaches and follow the 5 step to finding a good deck builder.

Richard Vande Sompel is a professional deck builder of 35 years and over 850 decks built and is the author of "How to Plan, Design and Build a Deck from Start to Finish". To Learn More About a Good Deck Builder and Claim your 2 FREE Deck Plans, Insider Report, MP3 Audio and discover everything to know about building a deck visit: http://www.DeckBuildingRevealed.com

Bathroom Floor Tile - 100% 'Nature Made' Remodeling!

If you look for an easy to use tiling method try Bathroom Floor Tile remodeling - it provides an easy coating technique that enables you to virtually decorate any surface at home. These natural tiles offer countless remodeling ideas and possibilities whether in the inside or the outside. Searching for new ideas that will help you on transforming your home contemporary and luxurious? Read this article.

Overview

Before you plan on using this tiling method it is important to understand how it works - Bathroom Floor Tile redecoration is made of unified decorative natural stones fixed onto a sq/ft mesh backing. The seashores of S. East Asia are rich with these flat pebbles, and indeed most of these tiles are originated from that part of the world. Practically, it enables you to coat any desired surface you choose: Bath walls, shower bases & backsplashes, kitchen backsplash, countertops, patios, pool surfaces, decks, and fireplaces.

Main advantages

Now that we understand how it works, we need to know this technique's main benefits:

* Easy to be replaced if needed.

* Quick & easy installation that doesn't require any special skills or professional background.

* Durable to any extreme temperatures such as around fireplaces and stoves for example.

Helpful advices!

* Order a small sample of the desired tiles prior to making a complete order - just to make sure it answers your expectations.

* When you prepare the grout avoid adding too much water in the initial mix - that additional water can result in weak grout that can flake.

* If this is the first time you install these tiles, it is recommended to learn from other's experience - there are plenty of forums and demonstrational videos on the internet where you can find useful information about first time installation.

There are probably many other great benefits provided by this effortless home improvement option simply because once you explore and understand how it works, you quickly find endless redesigning opportunities that could fit any space at home.

Final words

For an average user Bathroom Floor Tile installation is quite fast and requires no more than several hours (pending the size of the coated surface). As mentioned earlier installation is quite easy, however, it is advised to keep the above advices just before you start installing.

Get creative! - Learn more about how you can easily decorate any surface at home or in the office with Bathroom Floor Tile.

Visit: http://www.homepebbletiles.com

Natural Lighting - Homeowner Tips

One of the benefits of designing in a rooflight into a new property, or installing one in a home or business premise renovation, is that you will be able to enjoy natural light. This will help save energy used for lighting and provide evenly distributed natural light that enhances the rooms below the rooflight.

On a flat or low-pitched roof, the rooflight will probably be a roof lantern with sidelights. The sidelights can be permanently fixed, or be opened to provide ventilation. This can be done either through a manually operated crank rod, or more easily with an electric motor that can be switched to open or close on demand, automatically at set times, or when a rain sensor activates it when it detects rain, mist or dew.

Pitched rooflights come in various shapes that include pyramid, domed, hexagon, octagon, or just plain square. However, the most usual design is rectangular with a hipped or gable end.

Historically, a single glazed rooflight could make the space below it uncomfortably cold in winter months and with inadequate sealing, cold winds and draughts would blow through providing unwanted winter ventilation. As a result, in some cases, the rooflight was reduced in size, or removed completely and boarded over, as the lack of weather proofing and the difficulty of maintenance made them uneconomic and expensive to maintain.

However, modern sealing and double glazing provide much greater thermal efficiency and reduced heating costs. The use of durable hardwood timber for the frames and modern paints to paint them, has also makes the rooflight more owner friendly. Because of its position, the rooflight is exposed to more rain, frost and sunlight than any other painted part of the home. This constant weathering meant that in past times, annual repainting was often required in a difficult to reach position, leading to more expense. However, by using microporous paints and stains, today's frames enjoy outstanding protection against the elements even in harsh northern climates and coastal locations.

It's the introduction of modern construction methods like these that have lead to a renaissance in the use of rooflights in domestic and industrial architecture. What's more, old leaky and draughty rooflights can be replaced with a modern roof lantern that will need little maintenance and provide a more comfortable environment in the space below it.

Moreover, designers and architects also have the opportunity to specify anti-glare coatings or tints for the glazing, or even self-cleaning glass, although these will add to the cost of the rooflight.

In a conservation area or on a listed building, there is often a requirement to meet specified design features. These can usually be met, depending on the age of the property, by including Georgian wire sidelights, Victorian styled stained glass or other glass treatments as appropriate. It only takes a little ingenuity to achieve this and planning officials will generally be pleased as there is little compromise in the period design. Once again, modern construction will mean that the roof lantern will be longer lasting and require less maintenance than what it replaced.

So if you are planning to install a rooflight there are no longer a great number of negative reasons that should put you off. Instead you can look forward to enjoying more natural interior light and a design feature that will be the envy of friends and visitors.

Christopher Cooper's background encompassed training in architecture and traditional boat building, both of these skills being put to good use in developing his roof lanterns business. Starting in 1985 roof lanterns and skylights became a regular item in the order book and whilst these initial projects were 'one offs' it quickly became apparent that there was an increasing need for a standard design which would enable more efficient production. This reduced manufacturing costs, and the savings were reflected in the price to consumer and trade customers. Today he is one of the largest suppliers of roof lanterns in the UK.

Bathroom Flooding Causes Mold Growth

Bathrooms have a way of getting mold growth in it because of all the moisture that comes from the shower or water getting on the floor. The water that can get on the floor can be from the sink, tub, or from the toilet. If water gets on the floor from the toilet, it is because it has overfilled or backed up, which can cause water to run all over the floor. It can get in the cracks of the bottom of the walls, seep into the wood around the sink, and get under the linoleum on the floor. It can cause mold to grow around the tub, toilet, and other places in the bathroom.

Mold can get in the wall, which is called black mold, and it is toxic to have in your house. It can cause allergies and other problems that can affect the body. If you are having headaches, that can be a very possible sign that you have mold and you need to check out the house. Call the mold professionals to test the house and check for mold growth. Also have them check the rooms near the bathroom or the room that it is connected to for mold because the moisture can travel to other rooms and form mold under the carpets, walls, floors, and other places that you might not know about.

It can even cause moisture and mold to get up in the ceiling, which can stain the ceiling and cause it to start to bow in which it also makes it dangerous for you. If there is a bad amount of growth growing in the bathroom, everything will have to be torn out, replaced, and something put in like air vents so it will not happen again. If there is mold on the tub, around the top of the tub, or on the tiles, you can kill it with bleach to get rid of it. You will have to scrub to make sure all the mold is gone and the areas are cleaned before anything. If there is a window in the bathroom, open it to help circulate the air in there so it will help keep it dry in there and so no moisture can build up.

Mold can also grow on the shower curtain as well. You need to clean that every time you clean the bathroom so no mold can grow and make sure you get it dry after every use of the shower. If mold has grown on it, it is good to throw it out and get a new one so the mold will not spread on anything else or in the air. Mold can get under the seal or the caulking around the tub. If it gets under there, it will have to be removed and cleaned so it will not do more damage than it already has.

Adyan Corkern is a writer for Wet Carpet Drying and water damage Virginia.

Right Materials with Peachtree Doors and Windows

Homeowners who are looking to redecorate or add a new touch to their home should pay special attention to the kinds of wood used on door and window frames. Doors and windows receive the most punishment from inclement weather, meaning that this wood will be the first to feel the effects of time and wear. Well known companies such as Peachtree are a sure way to find the best quality doors and windows on the market.

When choosing wood, there are many different choices for buyers to look at. Peachtree Doors and Windows is one of the best companies in the market for finding the highest-quality wood to use to protect your home against the elements. A door or window frame that corrodes over time can mean higher energy costs for homeowners. When a door frame allows in heat or cold, it takes more energy to keep a home warm during the winter and cool during the summer.

Also, choosing the right glass for your window or door is another important step in ensuring that your home is as energy efficient as possible. Double-paned glass is often the best choice for a home that is located in an area that sees huge changes in temperature throughout the year. With a double-paned glass, the heat inside the home during the summer has less chance of escaping. This type of glass used on windows and doors can also serve to keep the cold or heat outside, and allow you to enjoy your home in comfort without wasting hundreds of dollars in extra costs.

When preparing to remodel your home, take a look at your window and door frames to determine if they need to be replaced. Wood that is rotting or cracked should be removed and replaced with a new frame to maintain the windows and doors sealed from the elements. Use a sealing component to make sure that your wood is protected and will be maintained for years to come.

With energy prices at record levels, we can all benefit from upgrading our doors and windows to keep our monthly bills down. A new door and window, including the frame and glass, can drop your energy bills by hundreds of dollars per year, making this investment one of the smartest choices that homeowners can make when deciding to upgrade their home. An initial investment of a few thousand dollars can pay for itself in just a couple of years, and any savings after that will go right into your pocket.

Need more on windows and doors? Cal Windows and Doors specializes in windows and doors in Irvine, CA and anywhere else in California. Learn how to prepare your home for sale with upgraded windows and doors and other great tips on how to get beautiful windows for your home.

Generate Homemade Electricity Yourself

An alternative way to create electricity had always remained a big issue for every scientist and common man. The best possible way to produce alternate electricity is by wind power. Now the question arises is "how you can actually do it?" Thinking? You don't have to. I am suggesting a very good and effective method to do it. All you need is to make a wind turbine or a windmill (same thing).

Here goes the method to make it. It's very simple and anyone can make it by his own and using his home spare things.

Blades of wind turbine are turned by wind and the shaft spins, which is connected to the generator and electricity is produced.

Main parts of a wind turbine are:-

1) A generator
2) Blades
3) A mounting
4) A tower
5) Batteries
6) Electronic control system

A 30volt motor is needed. Now hub and blades are to be connected. For blades, take one 24 inch long pipe (may be pvc) and then cut it into 3 pieces by its circumference. For bolting blades into hub, a toothed pulley of 5 inches can be used, where the motor shaft can fit into. Now assemble blades with hub, by drilling holes.

Mounting of the turbine can be done by strapping the motor into a 2 X 4 wood piece. Heavy aluminum sheet can be used to make tail, which will keep turning into wind. 3 feet diameter plywood cutout can be used for tower base. A U-shaped assembly having a 1.5inch Tee in the middle has to be built. Batteries with blocking diode connected to batteries (for power prevention) are needed to spin motor/generator. Charge controller should be connected for running everything. The Controller is connected to wind turbine. Battery supply all load and needs to be charged. Well, you are done!

I know it's probably very difficult for you to understand all this, if you have never done anything similar before, that's why if you want to make your own windmill, I highly recommend you to use professional instructions, when assembling everything. Click here to find out to get them.

Bathroom Mirror Lights - How to Choose the Right Kind

Bathroom mirror light can work wonders for your bathroom. Whether you admit it or not, most of us spend a considerable amount of time in front of the mirror. From this arises the necessity to get your bathroom, the latest kind of lighting available.

It is not necessary to renovate the entire bathroom lighting just because the existing lights are not modern enough. Just changing the bathroom mirror light could do the trick for you.

Factors That Have To Be Kept In Mind

Providing the correct lighting for a room is a very challenging job. Here are a few tips to make the process easier for you:

The lighting of the mirror should be such that it eliminates all unnecessary shadows.

The mirror light should provide cross lighting. You can determine this by checking whether the mirror light casts a shadow under your eyes or concentrates on your eyebrows. If it does either, then the lighting is not right. Friendly lighting is one that includes light from both the sides, above and below.

Avoid frosted bulbs or fixtures that are made out of glass shields and opaque plastic. Use illuminated bathroom mirrors instead.

Make sure that the sink front edges as well as the countertop get well illuminated with the light you select.

If your wall mirror is more than 24 inches wide then select a wall mounted light for the top of the mirror as well as the sides of the mirror. This would complete the cross lighting effect.

If the mirror is more than 26 inches wide then you would have to use a powerful overhead light source. This source should also be able to cover the mid section of the mirror.

If you can successfully incorporate all the above mentioned tips then you would easily be able to pick the right kind of bathroom mirror light for your home. While searching for the mirror lights, remember to browse the Internet and go through some discount bathroom mirrors. Who knows, you might come across the perfect kind of mirror for your bathroom.

Visit CORE online to get free access to more information on buying bathroom mirror lights.

Tuscan Bathroom Design

Tuscan bathroom design is said to be a perfect combination of sheer indulgence and timeless beauty. When designing a bathroom, it is important to keep the style consistent with the rest of your house. It is a fabulous idea to decorate your bathroom in a luxurious Tuscan design with scrolled ironwork, ceramic tiles and marble if you have Mediterranean or Tuscan elements as your home decor. A Tuscan master bath would be beautiful, to accent your Tuscan style bedroom.

For a Tuscan bathroom design, choosing the right wall color will set the feel for your Tuscan bath. Just as with standard Tuscan decor , warm colors are ideal. Selecting colors with a yellow base will give you a solid platform to work with. Terracotta and gold colors are common in Tuscan design. A useful tip to remember is choose the light color as the base, and think of adding a darker shade on top with sponge or stucco texture. Consider color washing and applying faux wall techniques. This adds a rustic, Old World charm to your space.

An easy way to put together a color palette that makes sense with your Tuscan bathroom design is by looking for an Italian piece that catches your eye. Often a beautiful painting or piece of Italian tile will have a great combination of color. Pull out the colors to accent around your space. Integrating darker colors such as burgundy, olive green or deep blue are perfect choice for creating a Tuscany spa.

Again, look for these types of colors in your tile piece when selecting your palette. More than likely, they will be there. A beautiful picture from your trip to Tuscany is a wonderful addition of Tuscan Art to your bath. Have a couple blown up in a copy shop to canvas. This can also assist you greatly in choosing your color palette.

The key to a beautiful Tuscan bath is how you accessorize. Keep in mind the Old World style when choosing your Tuscan decor accessories and you will achieve the look and feel you are after. Your bathroom vanity, sink and accessories will set the tone of your Tuscan space.

Choose items like Metal urns, lots of greenery, Terracotta pots, wrought iron sconces and candle holders, and glass apothecary jars. You can just imagine how much you will be able to find. Consider hanging a wrought iron shelf as well. Open bathroom shelving is consistent with Tuscan design. Carefully select your Tuscany faucet. There's so much that can work in this type of bathroom. You want the style you prefer, and the price you can afford. Keep that in mind.

You can get creative by placing a baroque towel stand next to your bathtub, or a wrought iron vanity if you have space. There are stores that you can shop online that carry Tuscan decor, where you can find terrific things like a beautiful Tuscan fabric shower curtain. Products like these are great if you have only a shower in your bathroom.

If you have a budget to work with, choose some marble or tile for flooring. A beautiful rich color on the floor with take your Tuscany spa to a much higher level! If marble or stone flooring is too pricey, you definitely can bring out stone by adding stone details like a travertine soap dish and dispensers. Even marble candlesticks will introduce rustic materials appropriately.

Patrice D. Walker is an Architect student who specializes in Tuscan Decorating. She is the owner of Tuscan-Home-101. Visit: http://www.Tuscan-Home-101.com/tuscan_decor.html to access the largest amount of Tuscan interior design tips and information.

Budget Priced Hotels in Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City is one of the most visited places in Maryland, USA. The city takes pride in their wonderful beaches, good ocean views and other attractions. The place is for the whole family. Even children will love the outdoors. They will hardly notice the time pass as they walk along the streets of this beautiful city.

In every vacation, there is always the accommodation to think of. Most people are on a tight budget, especially those with children tagged along. Good thing in Ocean City, there are a lot of hotels that can meet your needs and preferences at very affordable rates.

Three-star hotels in Maryland are generally mid-ranged in prices. These Star hotels have larger rooms compared to two-star hotels.

One three-star hotel is the Rodeway Inn Oceanfront. It offers economy beachfront accommodations. It is about 30 miles from the Wicomico Country Airport and approximately one block from the Ocean City boardwalk. Its property amenities include free morning pastries and coffee, free parking, an indoor and outdoor pool, an ice machine, beach access, interior corridors and a safety deposit box.

They have standard rooms with amenities including cable television, iron boards, iron, air-conditioning, a telephone and a mini-refrigerator.

Next is theSea Bay Hotel. It is in the thick of midtown Ocean City and about one block from the beach. The Baltimore International Airport is about 150miles away from the hotel. Some of its amenities are a meeting room, game room, outdoor pool, wireless high-speed internet access, laundry facilities, safety deposit box and free parking. It also offers oversized rooms that are fully equipped with refrigerator, microwaves, coffeemaker, wet bars sink, hairdryer, irons and ironing boards and private balconies. Children under 17 years old are free if accompanied by an adult. Otherwise, regular rates apply. It is a non-smoking hotel.

There is also the Quality Inn and Suites Beachfront. It is miles away from sandy beaches and 20 miles away from Salisbury-Ocean-City-Wicomico Regional Airport. It is only a short walking distance to the Jolly Rogers Amusement Park. It is also approximately five blocks to the Ocean City Convention Center and five blocks to the boardwalk.

The hotel features a sauna, spa, as well as outdoor and indoor seasonal pools. There is also an onsite restaurant that offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can also take advantage of their guest laundry facility, gift shop, exercise room and game room, along with their banquet room, handicap room, coffee shop, and newsstand.

They have oversized suites and rooms, featuring a balcony in every room, kitchenettes, VCRs and air conditioning. There is also free high-speed internet access, whirlpool baths, cable satellite television, hair dryers and free local phone calls.

You can also choose to stay in The Comfort Inn Boardwalk. It is a big hotel with 84 guest rooms in all. Aside from being beautifully decorated, all units are equipped with refrigerators, microwaves, air conditioning, cable television and king sized bed. It also has an indoor and outdoor pool. The hotel also offers free deluxe continental breakfast, delivered right to your room.

As another option, there is the Fenwick Inn, an ocean city landmark conveniently situated one block from the beach. It has 201 oversized guest rooms, fully equipped with a microwave, refrigerator, and 27 inch colored television. Rooms also have either one king or two king double beds and a private bath.

For more information on Cheap Hotel Ocean City, Maryland and Ocean City Flights please visit our website.

What To Think About With A Bathroom Remodel

When you are considering a bathroom remodel, there are several things that you need to think about before you get started. Although the bathroom is small, remodeling the entire room is a large task. You will need the help of various skilled professionals and you will need to be sure that no mistakes are made. Even small mistakes can be a large problem later. Think about these things before getting started.

Have You Thought Of...

Perhaps the first thing to consider with a bathroom remodel is just what the new room will look like. What dimensions will it have and where will the features in the room be placed? Will you add windows, skylights or other fixtures? Making significant changes like this can be amazing, but they will be difficult to do as well as costly.

Time is another factor in a bathroom remodel. A good plan before getting started is to consider a schedule for the process of remodeling. Be sure that you realize that you will need to do the work around your every day life. What's more, if this is the only bathroom in the home, it could make for a problem. Where else can you use the bathroom while you work on this remodel?

Next, realize that you need to find the right professionals for the job. They should be licensed and qualified to work in your home. Be sure that they are insured as well. You also want to be sure that you are clear on what needs to be done and how it will be done by the professional. A contract is a necessary tool to use to convey these needs.

What Could Happen?

The bathroom remodel will go smoother if you plan for potential problems. Hiring a qualified professional is a good way to help you to avoid having to too much work, to make costly important steps or even to pay too much for the process. You need to look at the basics of the design and work from there including the cavity space, the ceilings, the walls and even the flooring in the space. Plumbing must be taken into consideration as well.

Should you take on this work yourself? For your bathroom remodel to be successful, you need to be sure that you can handle the renovations that are needed. In most cases, hiring a professional to do the work for you is a very important part of the process. This will eliminate many of the problems that you will face.

Adam Peters contributes editing long articles on decorating for http://www.home-decorating-reviews.com A focused website that offers the best articles on painting bathroom tiles and home interiors.

Drywall Termite Damage
Roof Drain Stain On Stucco

The Truth About Rustic Bathroom Vanities

There is no denying the fact that bathroom vanities have indeed come of age. From the intricately designed, undeniably sophisticated Victorian bathroom vanities to ones with the simple and sophisticated look, they have evolved over the years and have managed to transform the look and feel of the bathroom.

But amid all this hype and hoopla, there's a certain bathroom vanity style with an ageless appeal that has transgressed barriers of time and space with remarkable ease. No prizes for guessing, it has to be rustic bathroom vanities.

From making an appearance at log cabins and country homes to making waves in both antique and contemporary styled bathrooms, these vanities have indeed come a long way. The fact that they have managed to charm just about everybody with their unique elegance is a telling tribute to their character. With a massive assortment of styles, designs and finishes to choose from, these vanities promise nothing but sheer bucolic bliss.

Consider Them Earnestly

Ever wondered how these much-feted vanities infuse so much warmth and elegance into the stolid environs of your personal space? Is it because they boast of the perfect fusion of both antique and modern elements? Or does the secret lie in the awe-inspiring quality of wood, ranging from alder, oak to maple, cherry and high-gloss lacquer?

It's really hard to resist surrendering to this uncontaminated spectacle, but be certain to ensure the following before you fall madly in love with this breathtaking work of art:

• The wood that you select must be perfectly in sync with the overall theme of the bathroom. The same holds true for the size, finish and the design of the piece.
• Some varieties of wood like mahogany, cherry and oak at are second to none when it comes to bringing the rustic aura of the bathroom to the fore. Just let a coat of wood sealant cover them, and they are sure to send your imagination soaring for generations to come.
• The finish on the vanities is another important factor that you just cannot be cavalier about. That's because the finish not only enhances the earthy charm, but also provides protection from damage. A finely layered hand-painted design looks as fetching as a sanded finish.
• While the vanities are carved passionately out of wood, the sinks and countertops are crafted from a plethora of materials, ranging from ceramic, porcelain and granite to stainless steel, copper and aluminum.

So if you are completely hung up about that absolutely glorious rustic style, it's time to celebrate its enduring mystique.

Here's exactly how you can generate 100's or even 1000's of positively brilliant Bathroom Remodeling Ideas... FAST ! And you could easily increase your home's value by several $1000s fast with these 25 street-smart tips for Dirt Cheap Home Improvement

Open Plumbing Waste Pipes
Small Crack In Floor Slab

Four Great Home Improvement Projects - Decks, Patios, and More

Expanding your living space by adding exterior structures is not only a smart way to add value to your home, but value to the quality of your outdoor life. There are many types of structures to choose from and virtually something for every type of yard and design aesthetic. Deciding whether to build a deck, patio, sunroom, pergola, covered patio, or screenroom is the first decision the homeowner needs to consider. The benefits of each of these structures are numerous, and any one of these structures will add value to your property.

1. Decks - These relatively uncomplicated structures are one of the most popular exterior additions. Decks can be made of treated lumber or composite decking material, which comes in a wide variety of colors and textures. The addition of a deck, like any other exterior living space structure, alters the exterior of the home and should be carefully planned to incorporate the style of the home. Consideration for the site of the deck should be given to take advantage of all outdoor conditions in order for the homeowner to spend time outdoors in the conditions they prefer.

2. Sunrooms - Another great way to extend living space with year round comfort, sunrooms can include heating and cooling, lighting, ceiling fans, tile flooring, and energy efficient windows. The addition of a customized sunroom adds light, gives the home a more spacious look and adds tremendous value to the home. Sunrooms blend with any style of home while bringing added visual esthetics to both the interior and exterior of the home. Customizing a sunroom to match exterior siding such as Hardie siding is easy and affordable. If an existing sunroom needs replacement windows for more energy efficiency, consider that cost as added overall value to the home.

3. Pergolas - Also referred to as arbors or shade covers, pergolas are a beautiful addition to any home. A pergola can either stand-alone or be attached to an existing structure and can be made of wood or termite resistant metal. Pergolas provide dappled shade and can serve as a trellis for climbing vines. Pergolas can transform a yard and landscape by adding elegant style to the backyard. Freestanding arbors can also play an important part in great garden design and can lead from one garden area to another.

4. Screenrooms - Screenrooms are making a comeback from the first half of the century, when virtually every home had an attached screenroom. They are a great way to add living space to the back or side of your home. Screenrooms allow for enjoyment of the outdoors in shaded comfort while staying free of insects and pests. Screenrooms are simple, economical, and can even be built using an existing patio or deck! Patio covers are another great option for expanding outdoor living space and staying out of direct exposure to the sun.

Home improvements, whether adding a carport, replacement windows for energy efficiency, Hardie plank or siding for a long lasting exterior, or upgrading exterior paint will all add great value to your home. Whether you are adding a carport to protect an extra car or boat or adding outdoor living space by building a deck, sunroom, pergola, arbor, screen room or covered patio, these structures are sure to add to the enjoyment of your home.

Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web. Learn more about Decks, Patios, and More

Lower Stair Landing With Stringer

How to Build a Shower Pan - Shower Pan Installation

With the convenience with which people today can hire contractors and handymen to do all their home improvement projects for them, it sounds out of place to be asking tips on how to build a shower pan. But engaging a contractor or handyman can be costly, and whether you can afford them or not, it's best to engage in a project that will not only allow you to save money, but can boost your sense of accomplishment, too.

Nowadays, you can easily access answers on all sorts of how-to questions on the Internet. Everything you need to know is on the web. However, with all the tips that abound on cyberspace, you can get hit with information overload and end up more confused than ever.

And that is why we've made the research for you and did the challenging task of choosing the most reliable tips on how to build a shower pan so you can have just this one brief, uncomplicated guide.

Our choice is the set of steps provided by Randy Davis. Here it is:

1. Rough-in shower drain pipe
2. Prepare floor and walls for concrete and membrane
3. Install base of drain.
4. Lay thin layer of concrete to create slope
5. Put down layer of roofing paper
6. Cut and install membrane and top of drain.
7. Hang concrete board on walls
8. Pour final layer of concrete with chicken wire embedded
9. Build form for threshold
10. Pour concrete for threshold
11. Tile it.

These tips have been published on the Internet for years now so rest assured that you can't go wrong if you follow them.

If you want to learn how to build a shower pan, I highly recommend you check out Randy's video course. Learn how to tile shower pan from his step by step videos.

2 X 4 Wall Built On Top

Ten Ways That Your New Dream Home Can Be Greener

Are you building your dream home? If your dream of the future includes a brand new home, you are in a position to make your dream house one that is good to the environment. Here are ten choices that can make your new construction home a lean green machine.

1. Select a site that is handy to public transportation or otherwise reduces your dependence on automobile travel.
   If you're like most people, your biggest contribution to pollution and energy use is driving. When you choose a home site that reduces your need to use an automobile, you'll be reducing the amount of carbon based fuel that you use as well as reducing the amount of air pollution that you personally contribute. Many of the newest subdivisions and communities are designed to put everything that you need within walking distance of your front door.
2. Choose a design that makes use of natural features and lighting to reduce energy use.
   The design plan of your home can make use of passive solar design to make the most of natural light and shade to reduce the amount of energy you use to heat and cool your home. A southern facing roof, for instance, is ideal for installing solar water heating panels. Shade trees on the east and west sides of your house can keep the entire house cooler without the need for air conditioning.
3. Pick energy efficient windows and doors.
   If you're going to splurge somewhere, splurge on the most energy efficient doors and windows you can find. Low-e glass can make it possible to have those gorgeous floor-to-ceiling windows you want in the study without completely destroying your energy profile. Energy efficient doors and windows provide the seal that you need to keep your inside air in and outside air out. They'll cut down on heat transfer between the indoors and out. Break resistant glass in your windows will increase the ability of your dream home to resist hurricane force winds (which, btw, will lower your insurance costs).
4. Use high efficiency lighting systems.
   Lighting is about more than light bulbs and fixtures. When you choose your lighting systems, consider using programmable timers to turn lights on and off using a sensor, dimmable lighting controls and task lighting areas that will reduce the amount of overhead light that you need. Outdoors, use motion sensors for landscape lighting rather than lights that stay on all night long. You'll see the overall result in lower utility bills and less light pollution.
5. Use a properly sized heating/cooling system - and be sure that it's Energy Star compliant.
   Over and undersized heating and cooling systems waste energy. Choose the right size system for your home.
6. Use sustainable building materials for floors, countertops, cabinets and other surfaces in your home.
   Bamboo floors are all the rage in the building trade right now, but bamboo is not the only sustainable, green material out there. You may actually be more green using local wood than importing bamboo from the other side of the world. Consider concrete, which is surprisingly versatile and stylish in the right hands, and is extremely green.
7. Install plumbing that conserves and reuses water.
   Choose plumbing fixtures that reduce water use without compromising water pressure. These are some of the least expensive choices you can make - aerators in all of your faucets, low flow shower heads, low water use toilet tanks. A new and increasingly popular option is a plumbing system that harvests rain water and reuses "gray water" - water that has been used for washing up, laundry and dishwashing, for instance. Gray water can be used for any purpose that doesn't require potable water - your washing machine, flush toilets, showers, etc. By reusing water, you cut down on the amount of water going through the municipal wastewater treatment and reduce your need for fresh water.
8. Choose low maintenance landscaping options.
   Drought resistant grass and native plants can virtually eliminate your need for an irrigation system because they rely on Mother Nature for their water needs. But there are other options that can make your landscape an active part of your greener strategies. Including a roofed porch or patio adds shade to your property and reduces your energy use by providing an outdoor space to escape the heat. If you choose a pool or spa, look for features like an integral cover to prevent evaporation, timers that turn filters off and on and filtration systems that reduce the need for harmful chemicals like chlorine.
9. Choose low VOC materials and supplies for floors, finishes, carpets, cabinets and paints.
   Volatile organic compounds are gasses that are given off constantly by many of the materials and finishes used in building homes. VOCs can cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, skin irritation and other health problems. They're also damaging to the environment because they contribute to smog. Look for paints, adhesives and other supplies that are labeled low VOC. Opt for light colors when you paint (light colors are usually lower VOC than darker pigments), and avoid carpet and vinyl flooring. Low VOC products are usually comparable price-wise to their conventional counterparts.
10. Select appliances and mechanical systems that are in the top 20% of their category in the DOE Energy Guide labels.
    The Department of Energy labels appliances and mechanical systems for your home with an energy rating. Choose appliances that meet or exceed the standards for Energy Star compliance whenever possible. Consider a tankless hot water heater instead of the standard hot water tank heater, and pick Energy Star compliant appliances for your kitchen, laundry and heating/cooling systems.

Calum MacKenzie is Owner of Real Living Southern Homes a leading residential real estate brokerage serving the Wesley Chapel real estate market. Calum and his wife Kathleen have lived and worked in the New Tampa area for eleven years and have extensive knowledge of the New Tampa real estate and Land O' Lakes real estate markets.

Residential Metal Roofs - Color Your Roof in Style

The variety of metal roof colors and styles available today may astound you. If you are considering a metal roof, you can forget that old tin roof look.

If you want the price and durability of a metal roof, but prefer the classic shingle look, metal roof shingles are available in all the colors of traditional asphalt shingles. Other colors you may not have considered before are also available.

Metal roof tiles are available in a multitude of colors, and can be purchased with a stone type finish to give them a real tile look. Sculpted cap pieces complete the effect. All metal roofs will save you money in the long run, but metal tile versus traditional tile may be the best bargain.

The other candidate for the best bargain would be a cedar shake style metal roof. That's right, you can have the look of a traditional cedar shake roof for less than the price of a shingle roof. Again, different colors and styles are available.

Even the traditional metal roof design can look better than the old tin roof of yesteryear. Many standing seam configurations are available that do not show any screws. With the colors available today, you can have a truly beautiful roof in a simple classic style that will last a lifetime.

An interesting development available today is photovoltaic roof panels. These panels look just like a standard roofing panel, available in the same colors as a standard panel. These panels are only available in certain standing seam models, but they are a vast improvement over the look of standard photovoltaic installations. This do not look like an add-on. It would be an integral part of your roof.

You do need a licensed electrician to install all the equipment you need to connect your house to a photovoltaic system. But you could install the roofing system on your own.

If you are considering a do-it-yourself installation, your manufacturer should have a contact available to help you through the entire process. They will have metal roof installation instructions for the style you choose. Local permitting would be your responsibility, but they will even have advice to help you through that process. The cost savings for doing it yourself are significant, and are definitely worth the time and effort.

Most metal roofing sold today is rated for fifty years. With the addition of coatings available today and in the future, your new metal roof may be the last one your house will ever need.

Learn more about Residential Metal Roofing Installation.

Fascia Board Fell Off Wood Rot

Spring Home Projects in Northern New England

As I sit on a plane in route from Chicago to Boston this evening, I realize I have been staring out into the dark abyss contemplating the arrival of spring. Spring is a time of anticipation and renewed life. A time when the snow finally abates and the Robins return to rebuild their nests. And a time when Tulips and Daffodils emerge from the ground and bloom, if ever so briefly. It is also a time for the voracious Black Fly that we northern dwellers know only too well. For me, however, it is a time to shift into a higher gear; there are outdoor projects that have accumulated over the winter months and there is traditional spring tasks that every homeowner is compelled to do.

There are two main questions I debate as I compile my spring To-Do list: What to do and when to do it?

As always with a non-vinyl sided house, there is painting. Over the years, I have come to the conclusion it is best to paint a portion of the house each year; one year the clapboards, another year the trim, and maybe in the third year the shutters. I am sure the professional painter would beg to differ with my advice, but hey, not all of us can justify the professional painter every 3-5 years, nor can we dedicate an entire week or two of our spring painting the whole house. I have found it best to do the spring painting as soon as the whether gets above 50 degrees. Any sooner, it is too cold for the paint. Any later, and one has to contend with the other flying insect, the hornet.

Another important job, but not so large in effort, is preparing the lawn for the spring rains. First there is the raking. Then there is the application of the first stage of the four-stage fertilizer process, you know, the one that halts the Crab grass in July and August. Usually every other year there is the additional task of spreading the pest control to prevent grubs and moles. Based on product recommendations and when I actually have time, I do these tasks in mid May.

For those of us with bountiful winter snowfalls, many of us have the unique task of fixing or replacing our mailboxes for hopefully the last time, or at least for the next 12 months. This is particularly an aggravating task as we spend much of the time doing it, cussing under our breath the snow plow operator that we know had pleasure wiping out our mailbox.

Then there is the garden. I am not sure why I still bother. Maybe it is due to a memory of my youth, when I spent two summers working on a farm. It may also be some innate desire to see something grow from nothing, that I had a part in. I think it is the latter, but regardless, every April I go out and till, fertilizer and lime the soil, while I sacrifice my body to the Black flies. By May I begin to plant the Peas, Carrots and Onions. By June I plant the Tomatoes, Peppers and Squash. And by July, I am at war with the local Wood Chuck.

Finally, there is the changing of the machine guards; storing the snow blower away and preparing the lawn mower, or in my case lawn mowers. I have the sit-down one for the main course, and a push one for the dessert. As my father-in-law always insists, sharpen the blades before the start of the cutting season and then a couple of more times throughout the summer. Well, being non-retired, I am satisfied sharpening them once before the cutting season begins and I have yet to see any ill side effects.

I see the lights of Boston approaching in the distance. My flight is almost over; however my spring list is nearly complete. I am sure I have missed a few items, but my wife will surely remind me. I look forward to the warmth of spring, but as I look down at my list, I think, Ill just sit back and savor the final weeks of winter.

Mark J. Donovan
me_donovan@comcast.net
http://www.homeadditionplus.com
http://www.homeaddition.blogspot.com

Over the past 20+ years I have been involved with Building homes and additions to homes. I have completed many projects that have included: building a Vacation Home, Family Room Additions, and a Garage. I have also finished the upstairs on unfinished homes. My formal education and profession has been as an Electrical Engineer and Marketing Manager.