Paying Contractors And Subs

If you decide to use a contractor or subcontractor, often referred to as a sub, then you will want to understand how to pay them. Your leverage on them to get the job done and done right is payment and their good name. If they don't have a good name then payment for their work is your only leverage. Hence, you will want to determine before you hire them how you will compensate them for their work.

You must understand the basics of how the laws are written to understand the dynamics of paying a contractor. If a contractor does work on your home and you don't pay them, they can file a lien against the house in order to get payment. They can even foreclose on the house if you refuse to pay them. A lien will also keep you from refinancing or selling the home. Hence, you will want to make sure you cover yourself when you pay your subs and contractors.

If you are using a general contractor to do a remodel, he may bring in specialists to do portions of the work. If you are paying him a set rate for the remodel, he is using your funds to pay the subcontractors. However, it is possible for him to take payment from you and then not pay for the work done by the subcontractor. The subcontractor could then in turn put a lien against your house even though you have already paid for the work done.

You can avoid this issue by paying each subcontractor directly. When you make the contract with the general contractor, you can demand to pay off each sub that works on the house. Then when you make payments to the sub, require that they write a release for the work done before giving them the money. This gives you an opportunity to inspect the work first to make sure the work is up to standard. Now that you have the release, they should not be able to file a lien.

Also, when paying the general contractor, you may want to pay for all of the materials directly too. This prevents the suppliers from filing liens for non-payment. Additionally, you should never pay the entire amount to the contractor up front. What is to keep him from skipping out on you and not completing the work? You should pay him in segments as the work is completed. This will motivate him to keep working and if something does go wrong and he leaves, you are only out a portion of your money and you still have enough funds to hire a new person to finish the remodel.

You will want to screen your contractors and subcontractors before you hire them. If they have a history of poor payment activities then you want to avoid working with them. You will want to ask for references and then check them. Also, inspect the work they have done. If you do your research properly, you shouldn't have to deal with shoddy work and mechanics liens.

Even though you may hire a general contractor to handle all of the day to day worries, you will want to pay close attention to the remodel. Inspect the work periodically and make sure that the work is being performed correctly. If you don't, you may be surprised by a few errors before the work is completed and after the work is completed.

In summary, you will want to work out the details of payments before hiring any work done on your house. When you do pay for the work, you will want to have letters of release signed so that contractors will not be able to enforce liens on the house.

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How to Replace a Circuit Breaker

It is always a good idea to have each circuit breaker clearly labeled. This prevents confusion and frustration in the event that one needs to be reset or replaced. You can begin labeling the circuits by turning them off and on to see which appliance it is connected to. Circuit breakers consist of the main power supply to your home as well as individual circuits for appliances within your home.

Learning how to replace a circuit breaker or install a new circuit breaker is a little more complicated than merely resetting a tripped breaker. Firstly, you should purchase a new circuit breaker from a home improvement or hardware store. Before installing a circuit breaker you should turn the main power breaker off to shut down power to the entire house.

You can remove the gray circuit breaker panel by unscrewing the faceplate. You will see two wires on the side of the breaker; be careful to remember what position each wire is in as you remove the panel. You can use a wire nut to hold and bend back the wire that you will use later on. Repeat this process for both the white and colored wires. After removing the old breaker box simply reinstall the new circuit breaker box and replace the wires in the same manner in which they were previously installed.

Installing a circuit breaker box is a seemingly simple task. Even if you are not technically inclined, you should still be able to perform this task. If, however, you are uncomfortable in dealing with electrical issues, it might be wise to consult with an electrician. All electricians know how to replace a circuit breaker and it is not very time consuming for them, and so it should not be expensive for you, and might save you some unnecessary frustration.

Circuit Breakers Info provides detailed information about circuit breaker panels, circuit breaker manufacturers, plus advice on how to replace and install circuit breakers and where to buy used and surplus circuit breakers. Circuit Breakers Info is the sister site of Electricians Web.

Things To Know About A Replacement Basement Window

While you are remodeling your basement make sure you got all the important stuff sorted out. One of which is the type of window to use. In the old days, windows in basements are made of metal or wooden frames. This has caused problems because they are prone to rust and rot. Therefore your windows get damaged sooner than expected. If you have this concern, then it's time to get a replacement.

If you want it quick, you can always opt hiring companies that specialize on replacement basement windows. But of course it's also important to know a bit about it before you buy. This article should guide you in what type you should use.

1. Frames made from Vinyl. Windows are the major source of good ventilation and proper air circulation in a closed and buried room such as a basement. Choose a replacement basement window that is made of vinyl. It's rust-free and will not rot from its damp environment. It is also modular so you won't have any trouble installing it.

2. Light. Since you are at it, your basement window must be energy efficient. This attributes to the amount of light that your window can allow to come in to your basement. Use the right frame size and glass thickness. Especially with daylight, the amount of heat could help balance your basement room temperature. Basements are prone to moisture because of its damp surroundings.

3. Function. Other than the things mentioned above, another use of window is for passing objects. Most often, it is difficult to have ladders, boards, or poles to pass through the basement entrance. Doors and stairs are narrow and the latter are steep too. A perfect replacement basement window must include other functions such as good ventilation and accessibility for long objects.

4. Aesthetic Appeal. Of course, this is a must. Windows contribute greatly to the interior motif and concept of your den. Beautiful basement windows must not only look good from the inside but from the outside as well. This can be planned out properly. There are so many innovative basement window types that are available in the market today. Some are designed with sliding panes. Others are double glass panels. Choose the one fit best to your basement's interior design. But don't forget to consider the above mentioned.

When you got all these things listed down and figured out, you're ready to go and look for a supplier. Take your time in choosing the right replacement basement window for you. Look for the one that you think is most reasonable. That means beauty, functionality, durability must be present.

There are so many beautiful window designs to choose from out there. Some may cost more but have really good quality. If you do find the type that is beautiful but expensive, the considerations mentioned above should help you decide which ones to buy.

Discover if a basement remodeling picture can assist you with your replacement basement window

7 Tips For a Bathroom Facelift

Every few years a bathroom just needs a facelift. If your bathroom is in good condition for the most part, but just needs some sprucing up, here are some tips.

1. Paint your bathroom. Painting the walls with a new shade can give the whole room a major lift, but do it right. Start with a primer. It adds just a few dollars to the cost, but not only will your paint hold up better, but it will make for a much more even coat.

Use a good enamel paint. There are many top brands that are water based for easy clean-up, and hold up very well. Use satin or eggshell if you like a low gloss.

2. Consider sanding your cabinetry and giving it a good stain. You can select a wood tone, or one of many color stains that are now available.

You may be tempted to just paint the cabinetry, but paint will tend to chip where stain is embedded in the wood and will hold up over time, if you do the job right. This takes a little elbow grease, but will make a dramatic change to your bathroom.

Buy some new knobs and your bathroom cabinets will have a new and different look.

3. Updating your lighting can also produce great results. Well thought out lighting just where you need it can definitely brighten up a bathroom.

Choosing attractive fixtures can make a stunning improvement in the decor of your bathroom. Lighting fixtures are not only functional, they lend much to the overall decor of your bath.

4. Replace your vanity top if it is showing signs of wear. A new vanity top and sink are a great way to update your bathroom. This is the most seen area of most bathrooms, and often gets the most use.

Consider adding a new countertop sink instead of the standard bathroom basin. There are hundreds to choose from and they will give your bath a new and trendy appearance.

5. If a new vanity top and a countertop sink is one of your choices, go the extra mile and invest in a new faucet. Here again, there are many to choose from in many styles and finishes.

Chrome was the old standby for decades, but these days you can have oil rubbed finishes, bronzed finishes, a variety of brushed finishes, or very shiny finishes. Handles and spouts offer many options in style as well. Longer necked spouts have become very popular for the bathroom and provide an interesting look.

6. while you're giving your bath a refresher course, this is a good time to re-grout around the tub. If your shower door is looking well past it's time, this may be the time to replace it.

7. And, it goes without saying, that new linens will always perk up your bath. If you have painted your bath a new color, this may be the time to replace at least the linens that get seen on a daily basis.

This is not to suggest that you undertake all of these suggestions. Choose one or two that will do the most to perk up and give your bathroom a fresh look.

If your bathroom needs more than a facelift, you'll find many bathroom remodeling tips and advice on planning a bathroom remodel.

Bathroom Renovation: 10 Things to Consider Before You Start

Are you moving? You may have to remodel your bathroom before the van pulls up. "An old bathroom will send potential buyers fleeing!" exclaims Lisa La Porter, designer for the "Sell This House" television series. Remodeling a dated bathroom will get you thousands of extra dollars. Not moving? Remodel your bathroom and enjoy it. Consider these points before you sign a contract.

1. NEIGHBORHOOD. Read the real estate ads and the prices of comparable homes in your area. See how many full and half bF76aths these homes have. Do not spend so much on bathroom renovation that you price your home out of the neighborhood.

2. REAL ESTATE MARKET. Get a professional home appraisal. The appraiser should also be able to estimate the added value of a renovated bathroom. These numbers will help you to determine your budget.

3. YOUR BUDGET. How much are you willing to spend on bathroom renovation? This depends on your vision of the bathroom and the materials you choose. At $40 per square foot glass tiles are far more expensive than plain white ones, for example.

4. BUDGET OVER-RUNS. The cost of materials is rising, so it is a good idea to add a few thousand dollars to your budget to cover any cost over-runs. It is better to be prepared now than sorry later.

5. BATHROOM TRENDS. According to www.HGTV.BathDesign current trends include elegant lighting, rain showers, higher vanities, vessel sinks, and designer faucets. The days of the old rectangular bathtub are gone. New tubs have different shapes and surfaces, indeed, some are works of art.

6. HIRING A DESIGNER. A bathroom designer can save you money and costly mistakes. The designer should be certified by the Society of Certified Bathroom Designers. To learn more about certification read "The National Kitchen & Bath Association Certification Policies and Procedures" on nkba.org/anonymous/certification_Policies_Procedures-2006.pdf.

7. TYPE OF BATHROOM. Home owners who invest in master baths usually get their money back. However, you may not want to put a lot of money into a guest bathroom or lower level bathroom.

8. THE RENOVATION COMPANY. Check out the renovation company before you sign a contract. Get reviews from previous customers and local business bureau. Your most important question: Does this company do quality work?

9. WORK SCHEDULE. The renovation company should be able to estimate how long the job will take. Renovation is messy work and plaster dust, dry wall scraps, and tile shards track all over the house. You don't want to live in chaos for months.

10. DYI JOBS. After renovating one bathroom you might not have the money to renovate another. Still, simple do it yourself jobs like painting walls, installing new lighting, and framing a mirror can make an old bathroom look new. After all of that work you may as well enjoy a good soak. You earned it!

Copyright 2007 by Harriet Hodgson

http://www.harriethodgson.com

Harriet Hodgson has been a freelance nonfiction writer for 28 years. She is a member of the Association of Health Care Journalists and the Association for Death Education and Counseling. Her 24th book, "Smiling Through Your Tears: Anticipating Grief," written with Lois Krahn, MD, is available from http://www.amazon.com A five-star review of the book is posted on Amazon. You will find another review on the American Hospice Foundaiton Web site under the "School Corner" heading. Hodgson has renovated one bathroom and is about to renovate a second.

Questions You Should Ask When Buying a Whirlpool Bathtub

Whirlpool bath1C5Etubs are jetted to provide water circulation that massages your body. People who suffer from arthritis and other painful and crippling diseases find the warm water massage provided in a whirlpool bathtub not only relaxing but therapeutic as well. After playing sports or going to the gym and working out a whirlpool bath can be relaxing as well. People who have no physically debilitating ailments also find relaxing in the tub while the jets are quietly massaging their body a great stress reliever as well. If you are thinking about getting a whirlpool bathtub there are a few questions you should ask to make sure the tub you end up with will be a good fit for you.

Does it Have Safety Features?

Since whirlpool bathtubs are often used by people who have arthritic and other conditions that make movement difficult there are many different safety features you may be interested in. Some have steps to get down into the tub, others do not. You should look for slip resistant bottoms as well as handles and bars where you can grip them.

Is an Internal Water Heater Included?

You may be interested in having a heater included in the tub itself, especially if you are going to be staying in the tub for long periods of time. When the water is jetted it moves and this may cause the tub to cool faster than you are ready for. If you don't want to add hot water to keep the tub warm you may want to look into a whirlpool bathtub that has an internal heater.

Does it have a low water sensor?

If the water level gets too low the pumping system may burn up. Often times things get turned on when you don't realize it, this isn't something you want to happen with your whirlpool bathtub jets. You want a system that can sense that the water is low, or even non-existent, to keep from burning up the motor by letting it run without the proper water level.

What are the proper cleansing techniques?

You will want to keep your whirlpool tub as clean and bacteria free as possible, so you need to choose a tub that you are able to keep clean. Knowing what is involved in cleansing your whirlpool tub can be a big factor when determining which one to purchase.

Will it fit?

Perhaps the most important thing to find out is if the tub will fit in the space you have available. Before you go shopping you should measure the area you plan on putting the whirlpool bathtub in and keep that in mind when you look at the tubs available. If this is to replace an existing tub you don't have to go with a tub the same size and shape as the one you are replacing, you do however, have to have enough room to install the whirlpool tub.

Visit us for more information on how to refinish a bathtub, how to caulk bathtub tips and Japanese bath tubs.

Different Types of Tile Shower Pans

Your tile shower pan can be of three types. If you are considering installing a new shower you should know your choices. If you have problems with your current shower leaking, knowing how the shower is put together helps you talk to a tradesman who will work on it.

Traditional Tile Shower Pans

Most likely your existing shower pan is made using traditional methods. That means the5B4 shower floor is built up with masonry or a cement mix. The concept used for this method is simple, but there are several tricks and some art involved. This method if properly done will produce ceramic showers that work great for many decades.

Very briefly the traditional pan is built as follows. First, set a special shower drain in place with the drain top at the height of the finished floor. Make sure you have a good solid sub floor topped with roofing felt. Then pour in mortar mix and slope it to the drain. The next layer is a waterproof vinyl membrane. This sheet is the waterproof barrier which is glued to the drain. Above the membrane or liner goes the top layer of masonry sloped to the drain. Then finally install the tile and grout to finish the floor.

Know that the masonry and grout in a shower floor are not waterproof. Only the vinyl liner is waterproof. If installed properly, you have a long-lasting set-up. If mistakes are made, you have a problem. Also the shower floor is not maintenance free. The joints at the floor to walls must be checked regularly and may require caulking from time to time.

Fiberglass Shower Pans

A quick and easy way to build a shower pan is to install a fiberglass pan made for this purpose. These are the pans you see at building stores. Tile cannot be installed on these pans. It's fast and relatively easy but fiberglass pans have negatives. These pans do not last as7E5 long as traditional pans. They are easily scratched and damaged. And a fiberglass shower pan does not have the luxury look and feel of a ceramic tile shower.

Tile Ready Shower Pans

There are several systems now that make installing a shower pan faster than the traditional way. All the systems use a vinyl pan with an integral drain designed for installation of ceramic tile over the top of the pan. Methods vary, but systems contain material to line the walls and make a completely waterproof shower. Some systems use a mortar base for the shower pan to sit on. Others use a special foam base.

The advantages of these systems over traditional systems is speed. No waiting for mortar layers to dry. Also the level of art and skill for the installer is less. The disadvantage is cost. Typically the tile ready showers are far more expensive than a traditional tile shower pan. The material is sometimes as expensive as the whole job cost the traditional way.

Puzzled about how to build a ceramic tile shower? Need more information? Visit our site for tile shower pan tips.

We invite you to visit http://www.installingceramictile.net for answers to your ceramic shower questions.

Wood Furniture

There is a large selection of oaks, pines and hardwoods to construct furniture out of, and with the addition of hybrids and other genetically engineered lumber, it is getting harder to determine what type of wood your furniture is made out of. This article will give you clues on how to determine what type of furniture you prefer and what wood is best for certain types of furniture units.

Mahogany

The classic-designed Greene & Greene furniture is usually constructed from solid mahogany. This type of wood usually has a straight grain and bears a reddish-brown color that darkens over time. Mahogany is very durable and is many times used in the construction of boats; it is also among the most expensive types of wood. There is one type of mahogany that is of inferior quality known as Philippine mahogany; this wood is inexpensive, soft, and not very durable. The only acceptable form of this wood would be when it is used as a top, decorative layer on plywood.

White Oak

Authentic Mission style furniture is constructed from solid quarter sawn White Oak. White Oak is known as being "barrel tight" because of the fiber that grows within the tree that makes it strong enough to prevent leaking (for example) through a barrel. Other reliable solid oak includes Siberian oak and American Red Oak. The unique specks that make quarter sawn oak so valuable are actually protein that run perpendicular to growth rings on a lumber log. This protein makes the wood stronger as well as gives it a distinctive aesthetic. The most productive craftsmen, the Amish, hand pick the lumber to go into a unit and the parts that are left over are many times used for drawer sides.

Cedar

Most recently, however, drawers are constructed from aromatic cedar, which has its benefits. Cedar repels moths and is aesthetically beautiful besides the fresh smell it leaves behind. After years of use however, cedar is known to oxidize and the smell wears off but can be revitalized by sanding the cedar. Nevertheless for the most durable drawers, hardwood construction is the best.

Hardwood

While you can get the most use from furniture with solid tops because they will last longer and can absorb finishes easier, hardwood constructed furniture or furniture with veneer tops can visually take on any style because they are available in a variety of stains, particularly darker ones. For example, the Barn Furniture Mart offers birch, cherry, and maple, both hardwoods in cappuccino and cherry finishes. Hardwoods come from trees that are available all year long.

While many people think softwood is the complete opposite of hardwood, there are many overlapping characteristics. Hardwood is generally harder than softwood, but many are actually softer than softwood. Balsa is a type of hardwood that's actually softer than pine and there's yew that's an example of a hard softwood. Softwood comes from trees that are conifers (needle-bearing) and include pine, cedar, and spruce.

Pine

Pine is a beautiful softwood known mostly for its attractive knots, but knots are actually signs of weakness in the wood. Nevertheless, a pine knot is stronger than a knot in oak furniture, which would probably fall out. To make sure the knot in your furniture isn't going to eventually fall out, a good test is to scratch around the edge of it. Pine is perfect for achieving a rustic look in your home, and it's usually the knots that add to its beauty but recently pine farmers are growing pine without knots. These genetically engineered trees are being farmed to grow fast and to grow without low branches (because that is where the knots co5B4me from.)

Rubberwood

Rubberwood was discovered during the 16th century in Brazil however tree farms were started in Thailand and China. The sap from the tree has been used for many things from tires to condoms. Rubberwood features a nice grain and is widely used in to the furniture from Vietnam, Thailand and China. This type of wood is farmed, therefore is renewable and is durable. Its quality is comparable to oak as it is stronger than some hardwoods.

Plywood

Plywood is often used in modern furniture as well. It is a panel made up of multiple layers sometimes including particle wood and solid wood. The layers are not very thick, only about a few millimeters and they are layered in different directions to make it stronger. Plywood is also very good as sides on a drawer because of its sturdiness and is usually pretty inexpensive.

Veneers

Lastly, although usually frowned upon, veneer is not as bad as it is made out to be. It is great for pieces that won't get much use and can be very good-looking. Many times what causes veneer to be of poor quality is the construction of it. It is recommended to purchase furniture that does not require assembly. If you notice that the furniture is constructed of veneer and only features that decorative layer of veneer on one side, be prepared to not have that piece for very long. When moisture is absorbed by wood unevenly on one side only, it will4D0 swell and the board will warp. Even solid wood needs to be finished on both sides to prevent warping.

If you're interested in viewing beautiful dining furniture, bedroom furniture and home office furniture in various styles such Mission style, Traditional and Amish furniture. Barn Furniture has specialized in oak furniture and wood furniture for over 60 years!

Interesting Farm House Renovation Ideas

People like to live in the country, and so many people are starting to move back there. People don't generally enjoy living in the city because of the noise and hustle and bustle. However it's by no means easy to find beautiful old houses in the country, farm houses are beautiful but they may require extensive modernization in order to live in them. It is normally much cheaper to renovate a farm house than build a new house in its place, plus you get a very historic beautiful building.

Older style farm houses were built using wood; these 5B4were made quite large by today's standards. They were also built very well and are probably more sound than modern day houses. You must however bear in mind that this is an hold house and there may be problems that could need sorting before you can get onto renovating it. Before you start renovating the house you should check that the foundations are sound, also inspect to make sure termites have not caused any problem. If all is well then you can start planning your farm house renovation project.

In old houses the electrical wiring is different normally two separate cables were used instead of the modern day single insulated wire. It is very important that you budget for rewiring the house as this needs to be brought up to standard. You will have to replace all of the wiring and install circuit breakers. You may also want to replace the galvanized plumbing and upgrade the heating and ventilation.

Replace doors and windows

Lots of old farm houses use double hung windows, these use weights on ropes which makes it easy to lift the window and keep it open. These ropes naturally deteriorate, as do the window frames. The windows might be a poor fit due to the building settling more into its foundations. You should budget for replacing all of the windows and doors just in case.

The settling of older homes over time can also cause uneven floors. It may be necessary to rectify this by using jacks to jack the floors up in5A3 the basement. If the floors are uneven you should defiantly get this sorted out first before you even consider fitting doors. The proportions of the whole house can be affected just by leveling the floor.

A farm house renovation project is no easy task, in fact it will take ages to complete. However casement windows are worthwhile spending time to do it because then you know its right. You should make sure you have enough money available in your budget to cater for any eventuality. There is no point starting unless you can finish.

The author Jerry Blackburn is especially passionate about subjects related to gardening and storm windows. His observations on casement window hardware are found on http://www.replacement-windows-tips.com/casement-windows.html.

Western Bathroom Decor Ideas

Often, the bathrooms in our homes get little or no consideration when it comes to decorating. That's too bad because there are plenty of western bathroom decor ideas that can make a big difference. After all, the bathroom is usually where we're at right before bedtime and where we spend time in the morning getting ready for the day. So, why not add a few decorative touches to remind us of something we have a fondness for?

Our favorite decor ideas for the bathroom are ones from the western, southwestern, lodge, and rustic styles of home decorating. For example, western style decor might include items related to western scenery or settings, cowboys and cowgirls, or horses, as well as rodeo and ranching activities. The Southwestern style might feature desert scenes, red rock canyons, cactus, or Native American designs. Nature and wildlife are common themes for the lodge and rustic styles.

Most of the things we use as part of our bathroom decor ideas are common items for the bathroom, but they're done in a certain decorative style. These common items include shower curtains, towel bars, robe hooks, tissue holders, soap dishes, lotion dispensers, toothbrush holders, waste cans, and so forth. There are also wallpaper borders, vanity lights, switch covers, along with cabinet pulls and knobs that are done in your favorite decorating style.

If your home has more than one bathroom, you might have one for the master bedroom, one (or more) for the other bedrooms, and perhaps a guest bathroom or powder room. If that's the case, you might want to use one of the best bathroom decor ideas we know of - simply get a few items that reflect the hobbies and/or interests of the person(s) that uses each of the bathrooms the most. Then, decorate the guest bathroom or powder room to match or complement the rest of your home.

If you're a horse lover, you'll be able to find a wide variety of shower curtains with a horse theme. You can choose all kinds of scenes, from a horse grazing in a lush meadow to a group of wild mustangs running freely across the open range. You can easily find other bathroom accessories and accents that feature a design or depiction of a horse.

Are you a cowboy or cowgirl at heart? You can get a toothbrush holder, lotion dispenser, soap 8D7dish, and more, all with a matching design that features a depiction of a western character. Towel bars are available that make it seem like a pair of cowboys are holding a rope for you to drape your towel over. Some types of western light fixtures have a cowboy silhouette in metal art.

Perhaps you have a deep appreciation for nature and wildlife. You can express your feelings with rustic style bathroom accessories and accents that bring a touch of the outdoors into your room. Whether it's plant or animal, you'll have lots of choices. You can get decor items with designs or depictions of acorns, pine trees, pinecones, elk, deer, moose, bears, ducks, geese, or trout.

No matter which bathroom decor ideas have the most appeal for you, the best part is that getting a desired look or creating a theme is easily accomplished without spending lots of money. Most of the accessories and accents for the bathroom are affordable and have a very practical purpose, so why not get them in your favorite style? The difference it makes as you start your day can certainly make you glad you did!

AnnaRae Mills loves informal home decor; especially the western, rustic, southwestern, country, and lodge styles. She has dozens of great decorating tips to share with you. Plus, see more than 375 pictures that show why casual home decor is more popular than ever. Go to http://www.Western-Home-Decor.net

Five Tips In Minimizing The Cost Of Finishing A Basement

You have saved enough money to hopefully build a new house. You also hope to FF3have it built with a very spacious basement. You know that it will be used for a lot of things. Perhaps spending your time with friends there or use it as a recreation area. For what it's worth, a basement is a place in your house that can be valuable. But you are also aware that your budget must be well spent.

A great deal of estimating the cost is needed. Or else you might end up having only about thirty percent (30%) of the basement done. So here are a few design tips to help you save and minimize the cost of finishing a basement.

- When doing your cost estimate, allow a fair percentage from your budget to allocate for the cost of finishing a basement. Do a list of those things you want to use your basement for. You know that by planning this out well, your basement could be one of the best places in your home. Later on you will realize that what you have invested is all worth.

- Design your basement windows to fit other purposes. It's a given that the window is used for ventilation. Since the basement is an underground facility, the room temperature will be a little bit different. The opening of your windows should not only allow more air to come in but also daylight. Basements are usually dark even at daytime. The more daylight, the less electricity. Having this anticipated will not only save you the cost of finishing a basement now but also when it is in use.

- Fashion your plumbing system and ducts to give head room. The clearance of the ceiling height in basements is usually low. This is because this is where the end ducts and pipes pass. You can still have enough for the cost of finishing a basement if you have it designed in a way that it would be easier to clad or hide. This idea can also be an advantage if in the future you hope to renovate your basement again.

- Use the right materials for your basement. It pays to know what attributes to the condition in a basement. For example, since a basement's floor can have a lot of moisture, consider using tiles. Not only is it practical, it prevents accidents from slippery floors. Moisture in tiles is easy to mop off.

- Lastly, try not to see your basement as a basement. Most household owners see their basement as a last priority in their list. If you can do away with this attitude, you have a good chance to save cost of finishing a basement. Some households have beautiful and functional basements because they never treat it as one. A basement is basically just a room under your house. Therefore it is a room that you can use. And while you have this thought, consider having a basement design that you don't have to spend so much on.

Actually, the last tip is the best tip. There are a lot of ways to use your basement for. You can use it as a mini-bar, a small gym, a guest room, or what have you. In areas where light cannot penetrate deeply, some people use it as a theatre area. The cost of finishing a basement is not really that costly. It's just another extra room in the house. So while you're still saving for this new house, include another room in your budget.

Do you need an estimation of the cost of finishing a basement? Consult the experts for your basement remodeling idea from start to finish.

Easy Remodeling Projects Improve the Bathroom on a Budget

When remodeling your bathroom, you don't necessarily have to spend a ton of money or a lot of time to improve the look and functionality of the space. In fact, there are a lot of little things you do that cost next to nothing.

The best course of action is to take stock of what you have first. That means cleaning everything up, shining the metal, straightening it up. Decide what you really need to change after you see everything at its best. A whole new bathroom won't do any good if it's not clean, and if you do any significant work you'll need the room clean and in good repair anyway.

Before you get ready to swing a sledgehammer, however, take a look at these simple ideas for improving the space without taking on a whole bathroom remodeling project. Home improvement doesn't have to mean major demotions and installations!

If you use a shower curtain, one of the first improvements you can make is to add a sliding glass door. This will require more frequent cleaning but it can also add more space to the room visually.

Hide the necessities! A stack of toilet paper rolls on the floor isn't attractive, nor is a toilet cleaning brush. Many holders and containers exist that conceal their contents and make the place a little more attractive. If you have personal care products all around the sink, move them into a medicine cabinet or shelf. If your bathroom doesn't have a cabinet of any kind, now is the time to add one.

If your tub, shower, or toilet is a disaster but you can't afford to replace it, look into pre-formed replacements that fit over the old equipment. This brings a larger price tag then a fuzzy toilet lid cover but is much cheaper than an actual replacement.

Small accents can help the bathroom as well. Find a new set of hand towels to hang up, or install a timed air freshener. A small magazine rack for those who like to read or a framed picture for others can make a nice touch.

Try a new style of light bulbs (yes, even little things like this can make a big difference). Normal incandescent bulbs give a yellow glow. Compact fluorescents save energy and give off a brighter white light. If you like the color the bulbs you have give off, try using larger globe-style bulbs instead of traditional lamp bulbs.

Change the fixtures. A new faucet or just new knobs can subtly change the look of your sink for the better. Actually replacing the sink itself may not be difficult for someone used to do-it-yourself projects. Change the towel rod or the handles on any cabinets.

Add a plant or two. Some people find it nice to enter any room and see small plants, even in the bathroom. Remember the room's function, however, and don't put so many plants in there that you think it's a jungle when you get out of the shower.

If you want to change the floor of your bathroom, do as much as possible yourself. Laying vinyl flooring may not be difficult for you. If you have tile floors you are replacing, remove the old tile yourself even if you have to hire a professional to lay the new tile.

These simple remodeling tips can really improve the way your bathroom looks, and you don't even have to spend a fortune.

For more ideas, please visit the bathroom remodeling section of the author's home improvement blog.

Garage Floor Epoxy System

If youve ever considered using a garage floor epoxy system to protect and enhance the look of your garage floor, there are a few things you should know before purchasing one. Most home improvement stores carry epoxy floor kits designed for the do-it-yourselfer and youve probably heard differing opinions on how well they work. Some will say its an excellent product and others will tell you not to waste your money. Well, there is usually an easy explanation as to why this product fails for some floors.

One reason for failure is not every16CF concrete floor is ideal for applying an epoxy coating. Many floors have too much hydrostatic pressure, meaning water moves from the under the slab up to the surface in a process called capillary action. Moisture then collects on the surface, which breaks the bond between the concrete and the epoxy coat. If the floor sweats even when its dry outside or there are areas that seem to stay moist for long periods of time, then an epoxy coating will almost certainly fail. It will gradually chip and flake away. Even if you dont think there is a moisture problem, its a good idea to apply an efflorescence or salt blocker before the epoxy. This will help prevent moisture from causing problems.

The most probable reason for failure is improper surface preparation. The floor must be completely clean and stripped of all other coatings. Any stains or foreign substances (oil, grease, paint, etc.) will prevent adequate bonding between the concrete and epoxy, resulting in chipping and flaking. Most contractors will apply a coat of sealer to a garage floor after installation. It can take several years for the sealer to wear off completely. This sealer must be removed for epoxy to last. Although acid etching is an important step, it will not remove sealer and most stains. Etching will only open up the pores of bare concrete, therefore you must do all cleaning and stripping before etching with acid.

Before purchasing a garage floor epoxy system, you need to first decide if your floor is right for it. If it sweats often or there are areas that are constantly wet, then forget about it. Be sure that you are willing to take the time to prep the floor properly, as this is the most critical part. It also helps to put one or two coats of clear concrete sealer on top to serve as a wear coat. Water based acrylic sealers are ideal for indoor residential use. Despite any bad reviews youve heard about the do-it-yourself garage floor epoxy system, it can be a successful project if its done correctly.

Kirk Muhlhauser offers ideas and instructions for enhancing your home's concrete surfaces. Find information on concrete stains, paints, and sealers at http://www.all-things-concrete.com

Different Styles of Residential Fencing

Although there are many different types of residential fencing perhaps aluminum is the most popular. This is a galvanized steel product with a hard wearing powder coat finish. It is designed to add beauty and value to residential homeowners. There are a wide variety of styles and colors to select from and any of them will complement any color that you may have on your home. This type of fence is designed with the residential person in mind and provides a level of quality and resilience that the home owner needs. This fence is made for durability to withstand the elements and it is possible to have a special formulated powder coating made to suit your needs.

This power coated system of polyester resin prevents early rusting. This type of fencing comes in eight-foot sections to cut down on time and labor. The posts that are provided will hold the pickets firmly in place and will adapt to any contour of slopes in your landscape. The panels can be secured to the post without any welding and there are brackets provided. Most of these come with a 12 year warranty.

You can find these available from 4 foot to 6 foot high and there are many different colors to choose from. This fence carries very low-maintenance which can free up your time for other things. Whether you need a picket fence or a privacy fence, this fencing can provide what you need. If you have animals that you want to keep in or animals that you want to keep out, this is the fence that can provide the security for you. With its low maintenance, durability, and appealing look this fence will be a welcome addition to your home. No matter what your needs this fence can provide what you're looking for.

For lots of information on garden fencing and other related topics, visit Fences Guide at www.fencesguide.com

Glass Tiles For Your Kitchen - Clean And Clear

Glass tiles are perfect for your kitchen especially if you're thinking of having a contemporary or modern look. These provide a very clean and sleek look that will surely bring in lots of light into the area. Glass tiles are durable as well and are not very hard to maintain aside from what most people would think. Here are some design tips when using glass tiles.

There are different types of glass tiles and colors can vary from transparent to colored opaque. These acquire colors through mixed pigments in molten glass during manufacturing. The color and shade permeate within the tiles' body. During the firing method, a layer of pigment is fused to the tiles' surface. As a result, colors of them are permanent and well-protected against moisture. Color is generally uniform among batches of glass tiles. Clear glass tiles do not use any pigments and are simply molten then fired.

Glass tiles have many advantages. It is moisture-proof which makes it very useful and sturdy in the kitchen. It works best and is most commonly used in walls where it allows light to enter the area without heat.

It is very aesthetic as well considering the variety of colors so people usually create mosaics which serve as a centerpiece of the kitchen. It is good both indoors and outdoors and with its non-permeable quality, endures moisture, heat, fire and ultraviolet rays. By installing glass tiles, other surrounding structures are protected against instant temperature changes.

Smalti is a type of glass tile made up of melted silica with sodium. Some metals and metal oxides are used to stabilize the material before it is fired and hand-cut. Fused glass tiles are usually translucent in nature with a visible opaque layer. Sintered ones usually come in 1 to 3 square feet measurement. It is manufactured by pressing glass powder then heating to fuse particles. Terrazzo glass tiles involve a cast method using glass and concrete amalgam. Cast tiles have a layered appearance created by putting glass chunks into a mold. Slumped glass has a contoured or curved appearance.

For ideas on kitchen tile design, visit http://www.kitchentile101.com

Using Christmas Tree Lights

For many children, sitting in front of the Christmas tree with the Christmas tree lights twinkling is a daily hobby during the holiday season. Many of us remember spending long moments doing just that, fascinated throughout. By turning off all light in the room and lighting just the tree, it will create a beautiful, peaceful glow for the entire space. With perhaps some Christmas music playing in the background, it quickly would become a favorite way to spend your day.

Memories As A Child

As a child, you may have had fond memories associated with the Christmas tree, such as helping to get it straight in the stand and then taking care of it. Perhaps it was your mother that would place Christmas tree lights throughout the branches, so that each one would hold onto the branch just right so that the cords were hidden. With Christmas carols playing in the background, it creates a lasting memory that can only be perfectly honored by replaying it each year. Once the lights are placed on the tree, next will come the beautiful ornaments, many of them ornaments that were used year after year; some crystal, some glass, some beautiful handmade pieces. As they are added the ornaments danced in the Christmas tree lights. The tree looks beautiful.

More Than The Tree

Although Christmas tree lights are mainly used for the tree itself, they5B4 do have decorating abilities for other locations around the home. For example, you can use them to decorate the banister or wrap the cords along a favorite mirror. You can use the Christmas tree lights on any fixtures that it is safe to use on. When you do, you allow those items to fit in the Christmas themed home, giving it more character and festive attention. Use the lights as they fit throughout your home.

While using Christmas tree lights on the actual Christmas tree is the normal thing to do, it is also a warm and welcoming way to greet people by placing them throughout the home. Using Christmas tree lights to decorate your home is something that you can learn to do and then pass on to your children. Throughout the process of decorating the home together, you will quickly find yourself creating traditions that will be cherished for years to come. Use Christmas tree lights to enhance and enamor your home to make it the most beautiful for the holidays.

Adam Peters enjoys writing about design for http://www.home-decorating-reviews.com A focused website that offers the best articles on christmas tree home decor and design.

Choosing the Right Commercial Flagpole

Standard commercial flagpoles range from thirty to sixty feet and are usually made of a single piece of aluminum or steel tubing.

You may want two, three or more flagpoles, depending on how dramatic you want to be. Be sure that there is enough room between flagpoles to allow the flags to wave, and leave room for growth in case you want to install bigger flags later on.

Th5B2ere are two types of halyard systems, or rope and pulley systems, for raising and lowering a flag. External halyard systems are located on the outside of the pole. In this type of rigging, the flag is attached to a rope, which is looped through a truck, or wheel, at the top of the flagpole. The rope is wound around a cleat at the bottom to lock the flag in place and prevent it from moving up and down the flagpole. The problem with external halyard system is security: it is too easy for someone to cut the rope.

For higher security and durability, choose an internal halyard system, in which the rope or cable is located on the inside of the pole. It is accessible with a special winch through a hinged door compartment near the base of the shaft. And choose a revolving truck, so that the flag will not become wrapped around the pole when the wind changes directions.

When it comes to choosing a commercial flagpole material, you cant go wrong with steel. Steel flagpoles are the strongest poles available, and require absolutely no maintenance.

For a more classic look and feel, choose a bronze alloy. Bronze alloys are mainly used for national and historical architectural projects. A flagpole made of this material will darken with age.

Commercial flagpoles come with a flash collar, which fits over the ground sleeve and bottom of the pole to protect it from the elements and gives the base a finished look.

Flag poles Info provides detailed information on flagpoles of all types, including telescoping, fiberglass, commercial, residential, aluminum, tailgating, wall mounted, in ground, flagpoles for sale, and more. Flag poles Info is affiliated with Original Content Web.

Roofing Material

A fine roof is an essential element of a well planned home. Employing experienced workforce and use of high quality equipment is important. Rates, simplicity of setting up and appearance are all deciding factors in selecting a roofing material. It is important to examine a roof structure before deciding upon a material. Walls, beams and structures must sustain the weight of the roofing material, which are available in wide varieties.

Composition shingles are reasonably priced and offer a fresh look. These are hardwearing, have low maintenance costs and are fire resistant. Shingles maybe made of recycled material. However, they usually have a short life span and can be blown away by strong winds.

Roofing tiles are a more modern and long lasting alternative for roofing. They are fire and rot resistant and cannot be destroyed by insects. This type of roofing needs little maintenance, hence is a popular option.

Wood shakes wear, over time, but it is a natural look and the wood allows a house to take in air. Unfortunately, they are also susceptible to mold, rot and insects. This roofing requires appropriate repairs and renovation. Standing-seam steel, aluminum or coated steels are popular metal roofing varieties. These are strong, fire resistant and need low maintenance. Mostly made from eco-friendly material, they weigh less and maybe installed over existing roof structures.

Slate, although a costly option, offers an extremely natural appearance and great fire resistance. Slate roofing requires low maintenance and is not at risk from insects. They are also heavy, brittle and cause difficulties in rooftop repairs and drainage cleaning. Concrete includes a variety of fiber-reinforced cement products. They are durable, long lasting and need low maintenance.

Purchasing high priced materials does not always mean they will be superior and not all products are suitable for the needs of all homes. It is vital that homeowners choose the right material, ensure correct installation and conduct timely assessments, which provides longevity of roofs. If the right selection is made, a roof may survive for 20 to 50 years, and at times, much longer.

Roofing provides detailed information on Roofing, Metal Roofing, Roofing Contractor, Roofing Material and more. Roofing is affiliated with Asphalt Shingles.

Small Bathroom Design

Designing a bathroom in a small space can be quite a challenge but you can still have a workable bathroom in a small space.

The trick to a small bathroom design is try and utilize every square centimeter of space effectively without cluttering the space up and making it uncomfortable to be in.

Choose your fittings wisely and don't just opt for a cheap bathroom suite, these suites will often not be suitable for the smaller bathroom.

A great space saving idea is the so called closet bathroom suites. These suites are designed specifically for your space saving needs. The toilet and basin will be in a wedge shape, this will allow them to be fitted in the corner of the bathroom and saving the space that would otherwise be wasted in the corners.

In the smaller bathroom there is no doubt about what will cause the major headache. There is no way of getting around the fact that a bath will take up a lot of space. If you can physically fit a standard size bath in then you will have no option but to stick with a shower unit. This is often a compromise that most people will be happy to accept and can make the space look modern and stylish, this is the option most young professionals will prefer.

The family home however will need a bath. There are only a few options available if there is not physically enough space for a standard bath. The first option is to gain some space from somewhere, from another adjoining room in the house or to extend the room. Both these options can be expensive and out of reach for many home owners. Another option is to move the bathroom to another location in the home. Again this can be an expensive project and will cause inconvenience to the home owner.

A cheaper and more convenient option is to buy a smaller than standard bath, they are available obviously at an extra cost. A corner bath is often seen as a luxury but contrary to popular belief they are not that expensive and a corner bath will take up less space length wise than a standard bath.

The small bathroom isn't the end of the world and can be a workable space.

Mchenry owns and runs a DIY tool shop that sells everything you will need for your Bathroom design small or large.

Planning Successful Home Renovations

Renovating your home is a big job. It does not matter if you are renovating a kitchen or renovating your entire house, the entire process takes a lot of planning ahead, patience and money. When you decide that it is time to renovate your home, there a few things that you need to do to make sure that your home renovations go smoothly and as planned. Here are some great secrets and tips to help you plan out and complete any home renovation project.

The Key is Planning Ahead:

Finding the secret of success when it comes to any size home rB68enovation project lies in the planning stages. In order to make sure that your renovation, whether you are doing it yourself or hiring a contractor, is successful, you will need to take the time to think the process through and plan ahead. Part of the planning phase of your home renovation project includes knowing what you want to do with the room, finding the right tools and equipment if it is a do-it-yourself project or hiring the right general contractor, and staying within your budget. When you begin to plan your home renovation project, you should sit down and make a list of the things that you want out of your room and how much you expect to pay. Sticking with your list will make your project more successful from the time it is started to the end.

Staying Within Your Budget:

Of course, the next thing you will want to do when you tackle any type of home renovation project is to carefully stay within your budget. Your budget will depend completely on what you have to spend. If you are doing the project yourself, you can often save hundreds, if not thousands of dollars. Hiring a contractor will ensure that your project is done correctly, but will add to your budget. If you find that you are going over your budget, then you can start looking at ways to save money, such as installing cheaper appliances or completing your renovation project in smaller stages. Completing your project in smaller stages is often the key to success for many homeowners that find that they have many things that they need to do to their home. If you start with the rooms that you use the most and then gradually work your way through your project, it will be a great way for you to stay within your budget. Another tip that will help you stay within budget is to work with the items that you already have. For example, if you want a new look for your kitchen, instead of replacing your cabinets, consider finishing the cabinets that you already have and adding new hardware.

It is not possible to complete our renovation projects and stay within your budget and time allotment. Many homeowners fail in their home improvement projects because they do not have the ability to plan ahead, shop wisely, and to see their project through to the end. If you find that you do need to hire a contractor to complete your work, make sure you choose wisely and find one that you can trust and one that comes highly recommended.

The free-lance writer Eric Slarkowski is particularly passionate about information on storm protection and home improvement. With his publications such as http://w327ww.replacement-windows-tips.com/basement-replacement-windows.html, the columnist improved his capability on areas related to replacing basement windows and home improvement.

Creating Your Dream Family Bath

Family bath time can be a great way to socialize and have fun with your family. This article will show you how to create your own theme and ambience for your very own family bath.

Consider kids and teenagers or young adults when you pick out a theme. Most of your family members may be more interested in one particular theme over others.

You can start with cultural themes. This theme is more general and so is easier to start with if you are new to arranging your very own family bath. Probably the most common cultural theme is the Oriental theme. Citrus baths are popular in Asian culture. Citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges and limes are known to soothe and treat minor illnesses such as colds and flu. Interestingly, these fruits are also used in baths for the same purpose. Not only do they have healing properties, they also have the ability to rejuvenate the senses. Imagine the aroma of fresh oranges floating around you. It is refreshing and the fruits naturally cleanse both the body and mind.

How to make a citrus bath:

There are many ways to create the citrus bath. Purchase those small tangerines from your local supermarket. Wash each of them and let them float in your tub. This creates a playful mood for your family bath. You can buy other citrus fruits and beat them into a pulp and use as an "effervescent." Just for fun, you can cut the peels up into shapes of stars, hearts, petals or simple oblongs.

If you are a young family and have very young kids, or if you have mostly girls in your family, you can create your own milk bath. The milk bath is popular between everyone because of its positive effect on the skin. Cleopatra made the milk bath famous! The girls will absolutely love the milk's smoothening effect. The texture of milk is soothing to the skin and makes it amazingly soft after the family bath. The kids will also surely enjoy a family bath that is interestingly made out of their usual drink!

How to make a milk bath:

You can use ready-made milk bath powder sold in most department stores to start your milk bath theme. These milk bath powders are usually a combination of powdered milk and effervescent salts. Or, you can use 3 to 4 cups of regular milk. You may then add some honey for fragrance or oats. Food coloring and milk creates pastel colors!

Ideas can be limitless with family baths. After all, a family bath should be carefree and fun. Think of jungle themes, where you can place herbs, seaweed, botanical leaves and "mud" scrubs and facials. Don't end there! You are sure to find ideas everywhere.

Finally, enhance your surroundings with candles, plants, blowing bubbles, bath toys, or even music. Celebrate birthdays, share ideas, or simply talk about past memories and happenings during the day in your very own family bath.

Get the best accessories for your family bath. See the newest designs on clawfoot bath tub to match your bath!

Hardwood Flooring On Plywood

Any reasonably competent home handyman can install hardwood flooring on a roughed in wood floor base. The quality levels of todays manufacturing processes insure that adjoining slats or boards fit to create a level floor. Micro beveling of the board edges create splinter free slats.

However, in order to ensure you lay the perfect floor, it is important that certain items are taken care of:

1. Windows Why check the windows if you are installing a floor? Good question! Check to make sure that the windows do not leak and that the drywall or plaster below the windows are in good shape. You dont want to be replacing drywall or plaster directly above a new hardwood floor. If you have window or wall problems fix them before you install the hardwood flooring.
2. Painting If you are planning on painting the room paint it before you install the hardwood flooring, for two reasons. The first is that you dont want to get paint on the floor and the second is that you dont want to use a ladder on a new hardwood floor, it can leave foot marks.
3. Baseboard: If there is existing baseboard and/or quarter-round they should be removed. Check for, and remove, any finishing nails that may have pulled through the baseboards and be left in the walls.
4. Doorframe Trim: It is easier to remove doorframe trim molding and then reinstall it so that it sits on the hardwood floor. However, it is possible to undercut doorframe trim to allow for the placement of the hardwood under the trim.
5. Doors Removing doors makes installation easier and allows for trimming the bottom of the doors to accept the increased thickness of the floor.
6. Squeaks Check the sub-floor for any squeaks and repair by adding screws through the plywood or sub-floor material into the floor joists. It is important to note that the installation of the hardwood flooring will not correct or eliminate any squeaks in the sub-floor.
7. Soft Spots Walk on the sub-floor and try to detect any soft spots. These are areas where the sub-floor sags when you walk on it. These areas should be corrected from below by adding extra support between the floor joists.
8. Protruding Screws and Nails Any screw or nail heads that are not level or recessed into the floor must be corrected. Where chipboard is used as the sub-floor material, it is not uncommon for screw heads to raise pieces of the chipboard around the screw. These bubbles must be removed with a block plane, belt sander, or wood rasp.
9. Sweep and Vacuum The floor must be free of all debris, and dirt. Dont forget to vacuum under between the plaster or drywall and the sub-floor. Often small pieces of plaster, nails and screws will wedge themselves in that area and for sure, they will end up under one of the flooring boards as you are attempting to nail it down.
10. Acclimatize the Flooring: One of the biggest mistakes made when installing hardwood is not allowing the slats or boards to acclimatize to the home. Hardwood swells and shrinks with temperature and humidity. Hardwood should be acclimatized for a minimum of 48 hours, some manufacturers recommend 72 hours before installation. Follow the manufacturers instructions.

Planning is the key to a successful hardwood flooring installation.

Additional information on hardwood flooring.

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Modern Bathroom Accessories

Are you finding a new design for your bathroom? If you want your bathroom to be comfortable, it should be equipped with modern accessories. Bathroom is one of the important room in your home. The most important elements you can add to your bathroom are tub, shower stall, sink and commode. You can not imagine a bathroom without accessories. Today people are using bathroom not only for cleaning themselves but also to get rid of all day stress. It is very important that all your accessories should match with the design of your bathroom.

Bathroom is a place which reflects lifestyle of a person.Before designing your bathroom you should try to find information about all the accessories available online or in the market. The most important thing which increases comfort as well as beauty of your washroom is a shower. A bathroom shower can be bought in different shapes, colors and design. Showers can be bought according to your needs and budget. Many people use designer mirrors to increase the beauty of their washroom. Mirrors reflects natural and artificial light and makes the bathroom look more spacious. While buying bathroom accessories you should pay attention not only on beauty but also on safety. A bathroom accessory should be made up of organic and eco-friendly material. Washroom items can be bought on furnishing stores and on the internet. Modern bathrooms are place where you have a lot to install and all that you install add to the comfort you will enjoy in the future.

If you want to know more about Bathroom Furniture ,feel free to visit Bella Bathrooms

UPVC Doors - Turn Down The Heat

Fitting a UPVC door to your home could not only make your home more beautiful, but it could save you money. UPVC doors are one answer to cutting down on heating charges, so consider these for your external doors.

There's a lot of talk in the news about the rising cost of domestic fuel. When gas prices increase, so do your heating bills and most exterior doors won't do a thing to help your pocket. In many cases exterior doors are not well insulated and heat escapes which means that your central heating has to work harder to keep you warm in the winter. It also means that you can end up paying through the nose for the basic human right of warmth and shelter. But it doesn't have to be that way and that's where UPVC doors can help you.

PVC doors will help you to reduce heat loss, just as vinyl windows do. Vinyl external doors are among the popular home improvement projects for that very reason. Just as with double glazed windows (called double glass windows in some regions) the doors have a central membrane between two panes of glass to provide the insulation. This membrane can be of varying widths and thicknesses according to the amount of insulation required. When you remodel it is definitely worth considering a UPVC door. Along with windows they will help you to keep your home warmer and your central heating will work more efficiently, saving you money.

When it comes to exterior doors PVCU is one of the best materials you could choose. It has several advantages. PVC doors will resist weathering. Unlike wooden doors that will soon lose their sheen, UPVC doors will look as good as they day they were installed for years. Wooden doors and windows often need to be sanded and repainted within a couple of years. This is a messy and time consuming job. In contrast, if your external doors are made of vinyl then all you will need to do to maintain them is wash and wipe with some soap and a soft cloth.

One of the issues that some people have with a UPVC door is its traditional white plastic finish. While many people like the pristine white sheen, there are those who prefer a more traditional look. If you prefer the look of wood, but would rather avoid the mess and the maintenance, then you should know that white is not the only finish available for your exterior doors. These days you can install vinyl doors and windows with a wood like finish. Both light and dark wood effects are available, according to preference.

It is also easy to decorate your UPVC doors according to taste, by including such features as decorative stained glass panels. These can be attractive and can also be used to let light in. If stained glass is not to your taste, then you can simple put plain or frosted glass in your UPVC door so that you can see out - it's a great alternative to a peephole. Finally, you should also consider putting glass strips alongside your external doors to light a dark hallway.

Adrian Jones has been involved in the home improvement UK market for many years. This article outlines the benefits of replacement doors for your home.

Granite Tile: Stone Cold Beauty

Granite is a decorativ1C84e natural stone that is truly eye-catching, delivering a unique, classy look to any interior or exterior. Granite is as durable as it is beautiful, being one of the hardest substances on earth. Also, to the question of usage and longevity, with proper care, your granite tile project can last a lifetime, transforming a foyer, a kitchen, or even in an outdoor installation (provided youve chosen a non-slip, unpolished finish) into a key feature of a property. Granite tile flooring is, in many cases, the obvious choice for those interested in any kind of natural stone tile flooring or countertops material.

The origins of granite

Granite tile is often a feature in a residence or a commercial building, not only because it is visually impressive, but because of the auspiciousness of having a flooring material which literally took ages to create! Formed deep in the earth, granite is the end result of tremendous heat and pressure applied over thousands of years. Granite is an igneous rock that is described as intrusive. That is, granite is formed when liquid magma is forced between other layers of rock, where it eventually cools and forms a layer of its own. Here, it is fused with elements such as quartz, feldspar and mica among other trace elements. The cooling process is slow, the new layer of rock being shielded by the layers above and below where the molten magma had been forced. The mineral elements which have become suspended in the cooling magma define the crystalline appearance of this unique natural stone. Due to its harsh origins and the lengthy process that suspends so many stabilizing elements within it, granite is an incredibly hard surface. This is material you can trust for durability!

Granite at the Quarry

Once the raw granite has been removed from its bed, first stage in processing granite for the purposes of flooring or countertop slabs is cutting the larger chunks of granite into manageable blocks. These blocks of granite are then further cut to size for use as both slabs and tiles by means of wire saws which are treated with various kinds of durable abrasives, such as sand, aluminum oxide, and diamond. These saws are most commonly used with water as a coolant. Sometimes, high-pressure water jets are used to cut the granite in tandem with the more traditional wire saws. Once the cutting process has been completed, the granite undergoes three processes that make them recognizable as tile flooring or countertop slabs. They are polished on one side, calibrated and gauged. These latter two terms refer to the process of making the back of each tile or slab as even as possible, and the edges as square as possible respectively. Once completed, the granite tile or slab is ready to be shipped to site, ready for your installation.

Popular uses for granite tile for flooring and countertops

Granite tile, being a very versatile material, can be installed in a great many locations in a residential or commercial project. Some of the more popular uses of granite are halls and foyers. Because of their decorative appearance, the popularity of granite tile in these areas is far from surprising. Granite tile helps to create an ambience of professionalism, strength, and permanence when placed in the foyers and halls of an office building. In the home, a granite tile floor can make all the difference in creating a space that is characterized by a singular, refined beauty that complements the surrounding dcor.

Further to this, granite tiles and slabs make a great countertop surfaces. Granite tiles are commonly used as highly suitable backsplashes that can add just the right accent to a kitchen installation. For an outdoor installation, on a terrace for instance, or a walkway, unpolished granite tile can add similar visual accent to a property as well as overall value. If you have leftover granite tile pieces after your installation is complete, granite tile can be cut to size and serve as cutting boards, coasters, fireplace surrounds, and a number of other uses limited only be your imagination and sense of practicality.

Caring for granite tile flooring and countertops

Given the hardness of granite, and the harsh origins that make it extremely resistant to certain types of wear, many of the things you would have to worry about with a lesser material is simply not an issue. For instance, many people choose granite for kitchen countertops and flooring because granite tile and slabs are highly resistant to abrasion caused by cutlery. Granite is also extremely heat-resistant, making it a worry-free countertop solution when it comes to hot pots and plates placed directly on its surface.

However, despite how durable granite tile is, it does require your attention in terms of care. One of the first things to consider is the application of an appropriate sealant. The choice of sealant may be determined by the variety of granite tile youve chosen to install, and where youve chosen to install it. Generally, a sealant is required to protect your granite tile from moisture, which is the most insidious enemy of any building material. As to the specific brands and varieties, talk to your local retailer or flooring expert about which one is the most effective choice with regard to your specific choice in granite tile.

Many of the other approaches to caring for your granite tile come down to common sense; clean up spills right away, keep your granite tile free of dirt and grit that can scratch the polish, and see about which types of cleaners and polishes are most appropriate to granite tile. Also, consider what you are prepared to do to maintain your granite tile surface. A level of commitment is needed in order to keep the sheen of the polished granite tile the same as it is when you first lay it down.

Granite: All this and brains too!

Granite tile and slabs are both a decorative and practical choice, making your choice of granite both a stylish and smart one indeed! Due to its hardness, its resistance to heat and other forms of stress, as well as the versatility which is offered by granite tile, you are making an investment that will add value to your property and one which will be the source of a tremendous pride of ownership. The production of granite has been millions of years in the making, made by the greatest manufacturer there is the earth itself. For a lasting durability designed by nature that is stone cold gorgeous too, granite may be the best idea youve ever had!

Granite Tile Dos and Donts

Here are a few things to think about when you are considering granite tile for your project:

Do:

Consider the area where you intend to install granite tile. Make sure that factors such as moisture levels, foot traffic, and slip resistance are carefully considered. Consider what type of surface is the best polished, honed, or brushed (AKA flamed) are popular varieties in granite tile, each better suited to certain areas than others. Polished granite is great for countertops and low traffic areas, but often becomes slippery when wet. Honed flooring is more all-purpo5B4se, but may be considered less decorative by some. Brushed or flamed granite tile is most commonly used outdoors

Read all warranty information before purchase

Look into hiring a flooring tile professional to help you as working with granite can be very strenuous, due to its weight particularly. When in doubt, its always best to get experienced help

Inspect the whole batch before beginning an installation for possible breakage and any other issues, and consult your terms and conditions as to how to see about compensation, if any

Expect color variations in your batch of granite tile. Remember, granite is a natural material. Use these natural color variations found in your batch to your advantage. Get as creative with your layout as you can

Lay out all of your granite tiles in a dry run before applying mortar or other chosen adhesive agent.

Choose a sealant that best suits your choice in granite tile. Ask your sales rep or flooring professional about specific varieties and brand names

Initiate a cleaning and maintenance regimen; choose the appropriate cleaners and polishes based on experienced advice in order to make sure your granite tile retains all of its natural beauty

Dont:

Install granite tile on an uneven, dirty or wet subfloor

Leave spills to sit on your granite tile floorin5A8g or countertops. It is important to avoid excessive moisture as this is what contributes to the wear of any building material. Also, liquids with an acid base are often culprits of stubborn stains

Allow dirt and grit to remain on the surface of your granite tile. These elements can affect the finish over time and take away from the natural beauty of granite

Use acid-based cleaners or other agents on your granite tile. This can be a major source of wear on your tile, cause stains to become permanent, and dull the finish as well. Avoid using any product your no sure about

Forget to thoroughly rinse your granite tile once youve used a recommended cleaner, or forget to change dirty water or solution which you are using to clean the tile

Use scouring powders, steel wool, or other abrasive materials to remove stains from your granite tile

Obviously this is not a complete list. Once again, one of the best courses of action to take to ensure that granite tile is the right choice for a flooring or countertop solution is to consult with the experts. This way, you are benefiting from years of experience which will allow you to avoid costly mistakes. It will also help to make sure that your granite tile will be as attractive and long lasting as it is meant to be with you as its best ally!

Rob Jones is Communications Coordinator with BuildDirect, a leading online wholesaler of building products. Rob writes articles for commercial contractors and DIYers on features, installation, and maintenance of building materials used in commercial and residential projects. These articles focus on materials such as flooring, decking, roofing, and siding, and other related topics.

Custom Window Coverings

Nursery Decorating Tips

1.Be sure to think SAFE! As cute as a shelf full of porcelain dolls might look above your little girl's crib, there is a safety issue there. So, first and foremost on your mind when preparing for and decorating a nursery should be safety. Without safety it won't matter how cute your nursery is. So, with this in mind, if you borrow or buy an old crib, playpen, or car seat, be sure that it complies with current safety standards. If you do not know, check online. Always think of your child's safety before good looks, and your nursery will be sure to be a success!

2.Use coordinating colors, pieces, and designs, but don't buy in sets. When a decorator comes in a designs a house, it is not going to look like something you could purchase at a furniture store. Chances are they will find pieces that go well together, but that do not come in a set. You can achieve a decorator look by choosing coordinated wallpaper and fabrics for a wall hanging, quilt, and window coverings, and matching, but not just buying the entire bedroom collection. For best results, it is better to start with a color scheme, and find patterns, fabrics, and accessories that match your scheme. You will find that if the colors are right, even if the pieces do not match, they will go together nicely.

3.Proximity. Even if you do not think it is as beautiful to have a trash receptacle near the changing table, it is practical. So, when decorating your nursery, one big tip is to consider the proximity of related items. Be sure to have all the baby essentials conveniently located where you'll use them. You won't want to have to walk away from the infant to get some needed supplies. So, utilize shelves, baskets, and other accessories in your design to make everything conveniently located, but still nice looking. Functionality should be your main design goal, followed by aesthetics.

4.Don't just think about baby, think about all of the uses of the room. For example, when decorating baby's nursery, don't forget a comfortable rocking chair with soft seat and arm cushions for those inevitable late-night feedings. Your comfort in the room is just as important as the baby's.

5.Last but not least, think longevity. When choosing color schemes, and furniture pieces, try and find items that you will still be able to use three and five, and possibly more years down the road. Use the largest portion of your budget to purchase the staples of the room, and then get bargains, deals, discounts, and used and secondhand items for the fill ins. While baby pink and baby blue might just seem so adorable now, think about the child a few years down the road. Unless you plan to redecorate and repurchase all furniture, wall coverings, and window coverings every few years, you will want to get items that are timeless and will still be functional for the child as he or she grows older.

Decorating your nursery should be fun, so start as soon as you know you are pregnant. Collect little pieces throughout the months that will enhance the room, don't rush it or feel like it all needs to be done in a weekend. Remember, most masterpieces take time.

HomeBuildingRemodeling.com is your source for top quality home building, remodeling and home decorating information. For free articles delivered daily by email, visit http://www.HomeBuildingRemodeling.com and enter your name and email under the Free Home Building and Remodeling Updates section.

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What's The Best Quality Marble Tile?

Today, there are several different types of natural stone used in residential and commercial applications. Their uses generally vary and would include flooring, countertops, wall covering, fireplaces and exterior facades.

It is usually a common thing for people to refer to any polished stone finish as marble, however, there is a strong possibility that they could be looking at a different type of stone, since marble is not suitable for certain applications.The most common residential uses of marble today are for window sills, fireplaces hearths, decorative foyers and bathroom floors. Other bathroom applications also include wall covering, back splashes, tub decks and showers.

Tumbled Marble Tiles Are Popular These Days

Some tiles are manufactured and processed for a finished look, and these are known as tumbled marble. The process actually involves tumbling the tiles with sand inside a large drum. After a period of time, the corners of the tiles become rounded and the edges slightly chipped, resulting in a well-worn, antiqued appearance.

The popularity of tumbled marble these days has increased dramatically, and this is especially true regarding its use for bathroom countertops and back splashes. With such a wide variety of shapes, colors, sizes and designs, tumbled marble can be used exclusively or to accent other types of tile. The number of stylish designs and touches that can be created with its sculptured trim, decorative medallions or mosaic border patterns, is virtually limitless.

Maintenance Tips

Implementing major regular cleaning and maintenance work on your floor will help a lot in mitigating, and sometimes eliminating any major problems with your tiles.

- Avoid using polished marble in high traffic areas

- Placing non-slip mats or rugs at the entrance minimizes soiling from dirt on shoes

- Use honed marble in living and dining rooms- it is more resistant to scratches.

- Quickly wipe-off anything that spills on marble immediately

- Use coasters under glasses or bottles, to prevent unnecessary spills

- Use mats or trivets to place hot items on marble

- Implement a daily and periodic cleaning routine

- Utilize clean mops and brooms when polishing the floors

- Old vacuum cleaners will scratch your marble - avoid using them

- Change mopping water frequently during cleaning

- Always rinse the tiles using clean, warm water

Marble tiles are famous for providing a cool walking surface, especially for the sections of the house that are hot and humid, since these types of tiles are able to retain the cold temperature of its surroundings. In addition, these types of tiles do not need as much cleaning, since it for one, is resistant to any moisture, and it possesses a natural shine, which is why you do not need to wax it quite as often.

The different patterns and designs found in marble appear as detailed, vein-like virulets, that are unique and are never the same on two marble tiles. Each design or pattern differ and vary from tile to tile. Each tile can also be used as subtle shading within an interior due to its muted, earthy appeal, which is preferred by home decor experts for decorative purposes.

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Walk In Bathtubs - Choosing a Walk In Bathtub Without Sending Money Down the Drain

Step in or walk in bathtubs are perhaps one of the best new concepts that is gaining popularity in bathrooms around the world. So what is a walk in bathtub? Read on to find out.

In short, a walk in bathtub is one that has a very low entrance which makes it possible for just about anyone, including those with limited movement and handicaps, to take a bath. The low entrance is achieved by a water tight sealing door on the side that opens close to the ground. Most traditional bathtubs sit high off the ground requiring a person to step up for entrance into the bath. The newer low step in bathtubs allow people to simply walk straight in.

Older vs. Modern Bathrooms

Older bathrooms have many similar characteristics. Most bathrooms in an older house are typically much smaller when compared to those in a modern home. The bathroom just was not given as much consideration in terms of relaxation and a spa like atmosphere and as a result the size reflects these past thoughts. Today, however, bathrooms are becoming much larger. No longer is the bathroom just for hygiene needs. Homeowners want a place to unwind and pamper themselves after a much deserving hard days work. Walk in bathtubs are one way that makes it possible for everyone to achieve this.

There are many types of walk in bathtubs available, but knowing just what you are looking for or any other special needs may take some investigating. It is important to have your price range in mind and what luxury features you would like to have.

There are many questions to ask when shopping for a walk in bathtub. Click on the link today to see the 10 must ask questions before buying a walk in bathtub to make sure you get the most for your money: http://www.bathtub-depot.com/shopping_for_a_walk_in_bathtub.html

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Bathroom Decor Ideas - Tips For Colors And Material

Your bathroom does not need to be a plain, drab area focused only on its practical aspect. There are plenty of bathroom decor ideas which you can consider, to make it uniquely your own.

When you are thinking about the specific types of dcor that you would like for your bathroom, the key point to keep in mind is that its style can reflect your own personal tastes. You can find an almost limitless selection of items to furnish and decorate your bathroom in a way that will make it one of the nicest rooms in your home.

Colors And Material

Although choosing a color-scheme that will reflect your individuality is essential, there are a number of other factors to think about which will highlight the specialness of your bathroom. The first step is to assess your own preferences. The types of materials you like the most can then be the basis for the products you choose.

For example, some people absolutely love wicker. If this describes you, you can easily find products to furnish your entire bathroom with this material, in both natural styles and those which are color-enhanced. If you are a fan of wicker, it can be your choice for everything from towel racks to wastepaper baskets to mirror frames.

If instead your taste is toward durable yet delicate plastic, this can make a lovely basis for your bathroom decor. Also available in a wide range of colors, you can create the nicest bathroom which is both practical and beautiful in appearance.

Metal materials can also be used in bathroom decorating. Copper and stainless steel are two of the most popular; they are both lovely and functional.

Decorative Touches

When you are preparing to decorate your bathroom, the sky is the limit in what you can include to make it special. Little decorative touches will make your bathroom an enjoyable place for your guests, as well as for yourself. Depending on your own tastes and preferences, these decorative touches can be anything from specially-designed guest soaps in a variety of shapes and colors, filling your shelves with a display of small shells and other memorabilia, or small macrame baskets filled with ferns and other plants.

In decorating your bathroom, you may also decide that your basic bathroom necessities are too nice to simply put away in the closet, and put them on display instead. If you have colorful, pretty towels, they can add to the dcor. Your shampoo, colognes, and other personal items can provide a lovely touch, especially if their packaging is attractive.

Selecting A Theme

A good idea for decorating your bathroom is to think of a specific theme that reflects your individuality. Whether it is bright and colorful or muted pastel tones, whether you would like a beach atmosphere or something delicate and ladylike, you can build on the theme which best shows your own unique personality.

The nicest bathroom is one which conveys your own personal sense of style. To generate great bathroom decor ideas, you can begin by thinking about your tastes and preferences, and you will be ready to begin decorating the bathroom of your dreams.

Ernest Jarquio is a successful Webmaster and publisher of Bathrooms-And-Showers.com. He provides more resources on topics such as Premier bathrooms, ion foot bath and corner showers that you can research on his website even while lounging in your living room.

Decorative Concrete In Tradition

Buy A New Home Or Remodel - Let's Discuss The Benefits Of Both!

For most people our first homes are known in the market place as a starter home. The home was most likely chosen primarily for financial considerations. It probably lacked some of the features that we would have wanted if our budget had been unlimited at the time. Now that your income has grown, and possibly the size of your family it is time to consider either moving or investing in your current property to add additional features and living space.

Although the decision on whether to stay and remodel or relocate has affected all of us, the decision is usually based on emotion rather than fact or situation. Before you decide on whether to remodel or relocate you should consider the following points:

• Return On Investment: Most of us are concerned that any investment we make, and doing a major remodel to a home is definitely an investment, will eventually provide us with a payback or at worst case we wont loose any money. In order to determine if an investment in your current property is likely to have a financial benefit it is important to look at the other homes on your street and in your area. If your home is the same size as the majority of other homes, it is most likely that if you add an addition to your home it will become the most expensive home in the neighborhood. From an investment standpoint, one does not want to have the most expensive home in the neighborhood. On the other hand, if your home is currently smaller than the majority of homes, it may be a very smart investment to add an addition to expand the livable floor space. This should have the effect of increasing your home value by more than the investment.
• Architecture: The cost of adding additional floor space is usually determined by the size of the lot and current building codes for that lot. Would adding additional floor space mean adding a second floor or is their room on the lot to add to the main floor level. Dont forget that by adding to the main floor level you will be eliminating some of the homes outdoor space. It is also important to realize that with some homes, depending on how the original foundation was installed, adding a second story may mean adding to the strength of the footings. This alone could mean that the project is not economically feasible. Whether you are considering a second story or an addition on the main level, try to visualize what the finished home will look like. If in your mind you are satisfied that what you want to do will be visually acceptable it is probably time to call in an architect to discuss what can and cant be done with your property.
• Budget: Although construction costs vary from city to city and state to state you should allow a minimum of $200 per square foot for the addition of basic living space, providing the addition does not include a kitchen or bathroom. Your architect will be able to give you a budgetary number for finished construction cost based on the city and state where you are located. Higher quality finishing materials such as hardwood flooring, and natural stone tiles such as marble or granite can easily double the per square foot cost. Once you have a detailed set of building plans, you will be able to obtain firm prices from the contractors in your area. For budgeting purposes, it is always wise to add an extra 10% to the costs, as there are generally changes and modifications during the construction phase.
• Sweat Equity: One major advantage to a remodel rather than a relocation is that a remodel allows you to put some sweat equity into your property. Depending on ones capabilities, a lot of the remodel work, especially items that are labor intensive, can be accomplished by a reasonably competent homeowner. These include simplistic items such as wallpapering, painting, installing light fixtures, and window coverings. For the more experience home handyman, installing finished flooring, doors and trim can provide cost savings and increased equity. Landscaping and gardening are two other areas that can become family projects and increase the homes value. However, if you do decide to relocate rather than renovate you may find that you are doing all of the aforementioned items at your new home!
• Inconvenience: Living through a construction project, especially if involves bathrooms and/or kitchens can be a very trying experience. If you havent been through a major remodel, it can mean the loss of utilities for periods of time, continuous noise, dust, dirt, and a parade of workman marching through your home. The concept of having peaceful enjoyment of your home is lost completely. Relocation is not necessarily a project without heartache. There is the packing and unpacking phase, new schools, changing utilities, changing all addresses on personal documents, credit cards, and other companies that you do business with. Let us not forget the new neighbors and the loss of the old and our childrens friends and classmates.

Want biased advise on whether you should renovate or relocate, its available from most real estate brokers. Remember that a real estate broker makes a living when people buy and sell homes, not when they renovate. They do not receive any benefit from you deciding to stay where you are and to remodel your current property.

As with most home improvement or remodel projects, planning is the key to success!

For additional information on remodeling your home or other home improvement proj295ects, including landscaping and gardening visit Renovation Headquarters.