American Houses

Three Helpful Tips for Renting Out Your Home

2010-09-23T09:42:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Home ownership has always been a part of the American dream, but that may be changing. Uncertainty in the housing market has led many would-be buyers to believe that renting's the better option.

According to a May 2010 online survey commissioned by the National Apartment Association, 76 percent of consumers think that renting is preferable to owning a home in today's market.
Likewise, some homeowners believe it's better to rent out their home than to sell it for less than its worth, if they can sell it all. Those considering renting out their property shouldn't make a hasty decision. Neglecting to weigh the costs and potential risks could put first-time landlords in a poor situation.

Moco, Inc., a company that provides screening services to property owners, managers and employers throughout the United States, offers the following tips:
* Look at the numbers. Renting might not be the best option. If you're going to lose money each month, it might make more sense to sell, even if you won't get your asking price. Consider all potential costs, including property taxes, income taxes on your tenants' rent, maintenance, and the normal wear and tear your property will experience. Remember that you won't be able to pocket all of the rent money; you will have to put a portion of it back into the property.
* Find quality tenants. Nightmare tenants can be, well, a nightmare.

Prepare for a careful screening process. Many private landlords can't access the quality screening products available to larger businesses without going through a lengthy certification process. However, you can avoid time and expense by asking your applicants to visit MyScreeningReport.com. The report includes a consumer credit report, SSN verification, comprehensive criminal search, eviction search, national sex offender registry search and an OFAC (federal terrorism database) search -- everything you need to determine whether a potential tenant meets your standards.

* Use an all-encompassing lease. Whether you use a template or hire an attorney to write your lease, make sure that the lease clearly states your expectations. The lease should state who is responsible for what, when you expect rent to be paid and what penalties you will impose if it is late.

For more information, visit www.MyScreeningReport.com

Adhesives Offer Advantages to DIYers

2010-09-16T15:16:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - What's the most basic tool every DIYer has on hand? Why, the hammer, which has been with us since pre-history. But as the human race have evolved, so has its tools; for many projects, a caulking gun and adhesive are easier and more effective than a hammer and nail.

When you use mechanical fasteners, such as nails or screws, you concentrate the load on individual points. For example, if you hang up a picture, a single nail has to support the frame's entire weight. If you used an adhesive to glue the picture to the wall, the weight would be distributed across the entire surface.

While gluing frames to walls isn't practical, this general principle applies to all sorts of projects. For example, if you're repairing deck steps, using adhesives in addition to mechanical fasteners can result in a stronger, more durable repair.

Deck steps become loose as hot and cold weather cause wood to expand and contract, creating strain on mechanical fasteners. By applying straight beads of adhesive before putting the step back in place and replacing the fasteners, you'll distribute strain more evenly. The steps won't loosen when the wood changes shape, because the adhesive secures the boards.
Adhesives also offer more flexibility than mechanical fasteners. "Once something is screwed, nailed or stapled in place, it is very difficult to re-adjust its position," says Mike Goldstein, senior brand manager with Liquid Nails Brand Adhesives (www.liquidnails.com). "With an adhesive, there is some amount of open time, approximately 10 minutes, allowing you to reposition the substrate immediately following installation."

Liquid Nails Brand formulates products for specific projects. For example, its Interior Projects Adhesive will adhere drywall, molding, paneling, foamback tub surrounds, and ceramic tile repair, while its Heavy Duty Adhesive is recommended for countertops, cabinets, brick veneer and plywood.

For more information, visit www.liquidnails.com

Steam Cleaners Turn Up the Heat Against Dirt, Grime and Germs

2010-09-07T10:52:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - In the late 18th and 19th centuries, steam powered factories, boats and locomotives. Now, steam power can be harnessed at home -- to thoroughly clean every room.
Americans aren't used to the idea of steam cleaning, but Europeans have been steam cleaning their homes for years. Steam-cleaners work by releasing hot steam vapor into the pores of surfaces, where it breaks up dirt and stains. While a vacuum cleaner removes surface dirt, a steam cleaner removes deeply embedded dirt without using harsh or potentially harmful chemicals.

Steam cleaners clean most surfaces more effectively than a spray bottle and towel. They also disinfect areas better than commercial wipes or sprays. Steam cleaners produce very hot water vapor -- one portable cleaner, Reliable's EnviroMate Pronto, releases steam at 245 degrees Fahrenheit -- which kills bacteria, mold spores and other microorganisms. Steam cleaners are also effective against dust mites, making them an ideal appliance for those with indoor allergies.

Homeowners worried about the environmental or health effects of chemical stain removers and disinfectants will find peace-of-mind with steam cleaning. Steam cleaners use nothing but water to clean, deodorize and disinfect. Most steam cleaners use less than a gallon of water per hour. Low-moisture vapor leaves surfaces nearly dry -- a carpet takes around 15 minutes to dry after steam cleaning -- so homeowners don't need to worry about damp areas encouraging mold growth.
Steam cleaners are especially effective in killing dust mites and bed bugs, removing pet stains and odors, cleaning grout, removing wallpaper and detailing cars. They can remove grease from kitchen counters, disinfect stuffed animals, clean grill racks and golf clubs, deodorize litter boxes and shine jewelry with equal effectiveness.

Powerful steam cleaners, like Reliable's EnviroMate Tandem Steam/Vacuum Cleaner, can take on the toughest messes through steam cleaning, extracting steam residue and vacuuming. The cleaner comes with a 24-piece accessory kit, which allows the machine to steam and vacuum a variety of surfaces, including carpets and furniture.
For more information, visit www.reliablecorporation.com

Fall and Winter Maintenance Preserves Looks of Composite Decks

2010-08-24T12:13:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Many people choose to build decks with composite materials because of the low-maintenance characteristics of the product. Although composite products are, in fact, less work then traditional wood decks, some care is required to keep the product looking great over time. As the cooler weather approaches, there are a few things you can do to protect the look of your composite deck:

Basic Cleaning Recommendations

Composite materials reduce the reoccurring work of painting, staining or sealing, but for the
best results, a regular cleaning with an eco-friendly cleaner is required. TimberTech, a leading manufacturer of composite decking products, recommends using Corte Clean and spraying the deck with a pressure washer before winter weather approaches.

To clean with a power washer, use a fan tip nozzle and spray in the direction of the brush/grain pattern. Be sure to use proper safety precautions, including the recommended maximum pressure of 1500 psi.

Ice and Snow Removal

For homeowners who live in harsh winter environments, it's important to remove ice and snow
from your deck in order to eliminate damage. For ice removal, it is best to use either rock salt or calcium chloride on the composite surface. However, either of these products may leave a white residue, which can be removed by either rinsing with water or a mild soap- and-water solution.

Prevention Is Key

Composite products, like the ones manufactured by TimberTech, are formulated to inhibit mildew growth and minimize staining. It is important to rinse off any composite product periodically with a hose in order to prevent the build-up of pollen and debris. Just as you would
rake and gather leaves from your yard to maintain the grass, it's important to clean decking in the fall to remove build-up. Even if it appears clean, mildew stains may occur where moisture, pollen and dirt are present.

Maintaining a clean, dry surface is the best method to combat mildew. Ensure that water drains effectively from your deck, and be sure that gaps exist between planks to allow for adequate
drainage.

No matter what type of composite product you choose, it is important to follow the manufacturer's directions carefully and maintain a periodic cleaning schedule to ensure that your deck is an enjoyable space for years to come. For more information about composite decking care,
visit www.timbertech.com

Shopping for a New Home?Check Out the Kitchen

2010-05-25T10:10:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Buying a home is the largest investment most people will ever make, so it's no surprise that such a big decision may seem daunting. There are, however, some simple guidelines that can help you find a home that you will be happy with for a very long time.

A recent study conducted by Merillat, a leading manufacturer of cabinetry, examined what consumers think about when they're purchasing a home. The study found that the kitchen sways more minds than any other room, followed by the great room and the master bedroom third.

"The kitchen is the gathering place for special occasions, family functions and day-to-day activities, which is why it is so important for prospective buyers to ensure their new kitchen will meet the needs of their family from a design and functionality prospective," said Paul Radoy, manager of design services for Merillat.

Try creating a checklist to help you decide whether a kitchen is right for you. Ask yourself these questions:

1. Do I like the layout of the kitchen? Consider the kitchen from an overall perspective, and keep all the items that will require storage in mind.

2. Does the kitchen look comfortable? Do I feel good when I'm in it? You should feel at home right away.

3. Does the kitchen help facilitate frequent casual interactions with family and friends? Consider the views into the surrounding rooms, like the living and dining areas. Can you easily associate with family and friends?

4. Is the cabinetry durable and well-built? Is the finish on the cabinetry smooth and consistent? Investigate the cabinet interiors to determine whether they're covered with a durable water- and stain-resistant material or a lower-quality product. Make sure that the color of the interior complements the exterior.

5. Does the kitchen have visual impact or a good focal point like an island, cooking grotto or other unique feature? Islands are a useful feature that many homeowners desire. When examining an island, identify the tasks or storage functions it serves to decide whether it will meet your needs.)

6. Does the kitchen have adequate storage space and built-in features to accommodate my possessions? Merillat's study found that, after remodeling a kitchen, many homeowners find that they didn't include enough storage features. Make sure you don't overlook features, like drawer organizers, pull-out trays and lazy Susans.

To more learn about kitchen design and storage features visit www.Merillat.com

Is It Time to Upgrade Your Home's Security?

2010-05-18T10:29:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - As Americans work in their yards and start DIY home projects, it might be appropriate for them to think about improving outdoor security.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. households experienced about 16.3 million property crimes, including burglary and robbery, in 2008. Many people feel that a home security system automatically makes their home safe, but outdated technologies may leave a home vulnerable.

Take outdoor motion sensor lighting. Burglars want to avoid detection, so they are often deterred by well-lit yards and driveways, making motion sensor lighting a wise investment. But for the past two decades, motion sensor lights have used Passive Infrared technology (PIR), which detects heat from moving objects. The problem? PIR technology can be easily fooled.

PIR sensors can be triggered by wind or temperature changes. For example, they might turn on by wind-blown leaves, but fail to detect a burglar on a cold night. In addition, PIR motion sensor lights can only detect lateral, or side to side, movement. If a burglar moves towards a PIR light in a straight line, he can approach the house without triggering the light.

But one new motion sensor light combines Doppler Radar with PIR to create more reliable home security. Precision Plus Doppler Radar, by Cooper Lighting, uses Doppler Radar to cover those areas where PIR motion sensors fail. Doppler Radar allows the motion sensor light to cover a larger range. Doppler Radar does not sense temperature, so weather changes don't affect its ability to sense somebody approaching the home. In addition, Doppler Radar can detect a person moving in a straight line towards or away from the home.

Upgrading a motion sensor light is just one way to protect your home. Some low-tech, DIY solutions include installing heavier doors and deadlocks, and removing large hedges, which burglars can use to hide.

To learn more about Precision Plus Doppler Radar, visit www.precisionplusdopplerradar.com

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Set Up a Nursery with Room to Grow

2010-05-18T09:18:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Preparing for a new baby is an exciting time in a couple's lives. And while baby-proofing electrical outlets and cabinets might seem tedious, no one ever complains about designing a new nursery.

From teddy bear wall paper to ballerina cotton sheets, nurseries allow for more fun and whimsical designs than any other room in the house. But your baby won't be small for long -- before you know it, your bundle of joy will be crawling, climbing and toddling about.

If you love redecorating, you might want to change your child's room as he or she grows. If your child will be sharing a room, or you plan on keeping one design for more than a few years, you should make decisions with the future in mind.

Pottery Barn Kids offers the following tips for parents starting to design new nurseries:

* First and foremost, make sure that your baby's room is safe. Choose furniture, bedding and accessories that meet or exceed U.S. safety regulations. Don't place the crib near a window, and keep drapery and blind cords well out of the baby's reach. Cover all electrical outlets.

* Design for function and beauty. Caring for a new baby is harrowing enough on its own -- make your life easier by choosing changing tables with built-in drawers or shelves, storage options that are easily accessible, and machine-washable bedding and changing-table covers.

* Find bedding that you love, and design your nursery around it. Pick a light, medium and dark shade from the bedding, and use them throughout the room. Consider how long your design will be appropriate for your child. Two years? Longer? Think about color and pattern themes that will last through early childhood.

* Go organic. You are going to spend a lot of time washing your baby's bedding, so choose three to four fitted sheets to keep in constant rotation. Organic cotton bedding is both eco- and baby-friendly, as the cotton is grown without toxins or pesticides. Pottery Barn Kids offers 100 percent organic bedding.

* Add those special touches. Put photos on display, or spell out your baby's name on the wall. Decorate with handprints or footprints and plush toys, or paint a mural. You don't want to use all of these examples -- the nursery would look too crowded -- but two or three will make your nursery feel like home.

For more tips on decorating your nursery, visit the Web site www.potterybarnkids.com

Navigate Through the Choices in Composite Decking

2010-05-06T13:36:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - When many consumers decide to add a new deck or replace an existing one with a low-maintenance composite version, they typically discover an overwhelming amount of information available. Homeowners might find themselves faced with many options and have questions about how to choose the right product. What type of composite decking is right for me? How do I choose from the different types of deck boards? What color combinations are right for my home?

There are quite a few different decking options available, based on individual needs and budgets. Composite decking is available in several different types of boards with varying looks, colors and qualities; therefore, it is important to understand all the alternatives.

Based on all these options, how can consumers decide which is best for their lifestyle? TimberTech, one of the leading manufacturers of composite decking, railing and fencing products, offers a number of tools that help sort through the details of choosing a deck and assist consumers in making educated decisions about their new deck.

At the beginning of the decision-making process, consumers first need to choose the type of board that best fits their lifestyles and tastes. Tools like the Product Selector guide consumers through a series of step-by-step questions that are used to uncover their needs, habits and deck usage. The results give consumers options of board type and style that are best suited to their needs.

Another tool that is helpful during the planning process is the Deck Designer. By using the Deck Designer, consumers can enter the desired size, shape and color of their dream deck so that they can envision the deck before it is built. When the deck design is complete, users can print a 3-D model of the deck, build a materials list and get installation guidelines and helpful construction tips for their deck.

The newest tool, designed to help consumers decide among the varieties of color combinations available, is TimberTech's Color Visualizer. The Color Visualizer lets consumers choose different home colors and decking color combinations. The colors of the primary decking, accent decking, rails or balusters and posts can all be changed to build a customized look. If consumers are looking for more direction, the Color Visualizer also offers suggestions of the most popular color combinations.

No matter what type of composite decking consumers choose, it is important to understand the different offerings available by taking advantage of these free interactive tools available online at www.timbertech.com

Re-insulation Projects Offer Year-Round Rewards

2010-05-04T09:16:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Homeowners seeking to pad their homes and wallets should consider re-insulation projects that maximize energy efficiency year-round. Simple, energy-saving practices will not only reduce heating and cooling bills every month, but also will result in a higher tax return next year.

The federal government expanded the scope of a tax credit program that rewards homeowners for energy-efficiency improvements, giving homeowners a prime opportunity to increase their homes' efficiency. Homeowners are eligible to receive a 30 percent federal tax credit up to $1,500 for weatherization improvements in their homes through Dec. 31, 2010,

And as far as energy-efficient improvements are concerned, re-insulation is a smart solution for the near and short term.

"Most of the steps you can take to improve your home's energy efficiency in the cooler winter months are equally as effective in the warmer summer months, when the thermal flows are simply reversed," said Bohdan Boyko, building science manager with GreenFiber, a natural-fiber insulation product made from 85 percent recycled materials. "In most areas of the country, winter has the greatest temperature differences between inside and outside temperatures, but in either situation -; summer or winter -; a properly insulated home is one that will help cut energy bills, lower the home's carbon footprint and help keep a family comfortable."

Homeowners can find information on the benefits of re-insulation, including R-Value education, how to's and tax credit information from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, at www.greenfiber.com where researchers engineered a special new blow-in product that aids in retro-fit projects. Older homes or homes where current insulation is inadequate can benefit from attic air sealing, duct sealing, attic insulating and side wall insulating. Because the insulation is literally "blown in" through a tube, it can reach high crevices and deep places in walls. "Re-insulation is a fast and easy way to improve a home's energy efficiency, often with little up-front cost," said Boyko. "A blow-in insulation product will perform better than material that is cut to fit, because it provides complete coverage and fills gaps, unlike fixed-dimension insulation products."

Do-it-yourselfers should have no difficulties renting equipment and tackling a blow-in natural-fiber insulation project in an afternoon. And because natural-fiber insulation is made from recycled content, it provides the greatest benefit to the environment, diverting materials from local landfills and reducing the energy a home could draw.

Tips On Making Over Your Home

2010-03-09T12:12:00.000-08:00

From Blah To Ahh.

(NewsUSA) - Giving your home a makeover doesn't just mean on the inside. Often, the exterior can also be in desperate need, but is often overlooked.

While outside projects may seem daunting and expensive, new online tools can help consumers visualize the home of their dreams.

CertainTeed Corporation offers ColorView, an online interactive exterior style and color selector, to help homeowners explore options. Through its Web site, www.certainteed.com/colorview homeowners can envision how high-end roofing, vinyl and fiber cement siding, trim, fence, railing and deck products look on various home styles.

Homeowners begin a session by entering their zip codes to view color and brand availability, then select the home style that most resembles their current home. The exterior is then customizable with hundreds of different colors and styles of products.

In addition, the following tips can also spruce up your property and give your home a gentle facelift:

- Change the exterior colors of your house. A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for a home's exterior or consider re-siding your home with low-maintenance vinyl or fiber cement siding, which is available in dozens of colors from CertainTeed.

- Unclog those gutters. Nothing can seem more mundane then spending part of your weekend unclogging the gutters on your home; however, not only will it keep the exterior of your home looking tidy, it can also prevent potential problems down the road.

- Clean up the yard. Unsightly weeds, overgrown hedges and grass, and mulch strewn about can give a home a disheveled appearance. Spend a weekend outside tending to the property, planting flowers and pulling weeds. Look for vinyl fencing, deck or railing for an added extra touch to your outdoor living areas such as CertainTeed's EverNew deck and railing or Chesterfield vinyl fence with CertaStucco.

- Make it shine. Adding more lighting or just upgrading fixtures that are already in place are easy and affordable solutions when thinking about what to do to the outside of your home. Consider putting in either solar-powered or electric walkway lights, or if you're feeling particularly creative, think about highlighting trees in your yard with small lights or hanging paper lanterns from your front porch.

For more information on color options for your home, call 800-782-8777 or visit www.certainteed.com

The Flip Side of Foreclosure

2010-01-14T14:43:00.000-08:00

(NewsUSA) - In so many ways, foreclosure is an end. It's a bank's last resort, and the sad final chapter for a family sold on the American dream of home ownership.

But in another sense, foreclosure is also a beginning -- a never desirable, but often useful, tool that can help stave off neighborhood blight and create a path toward rejuvenation.

As much as everyone wants to avoid foreclosure, it does provide cities -- especially older ones with declining populations -- the legal means necessary for acquiring property that would otherwise become vacant or abandoned.

The trouble is that there's a stigma associated with foreclosure, and legislators can be swayed to impose restrictions on the process that make it more difficult for municipalities that want to reclaim and reuse property that has been left to decay.

So, from a policy perspective, what can be done to create better legal tools for clearing titles that don't depend solely on the self-interest of debt collectors? Here are some ideas proposed by Mary Helen Petrus, a researcher at the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland:

* Quiet title actions, in which governments go to court to "quiet" any and all claims to a property's title.

* Laws to facilitate nuisance abatement through receivership (giving courts the power to assign repairs or improvements to an overseer of a vacant property).

* New rules making it easier for willing homeowners to forfeit their properties so that governments can take stewardship.

* Processes for tax foreclosures that don't have to go through the courts.

This is not to say that foreclosure is always the best option. In viable neighborhoods, the most beneficial course of action is generally to focus on improving the quality and affordability of housing for the people who still live there. But when there's a breakdown, and there's no hope of rescuing properties from becoming vacant or falling into disrepair, foreclosure is often the most viable option.

This is especially true in American cities where joblessness is high, or the population is dwindling. In these situations, where there simply aren't enough homebuyers to purchase the number of homes available in a market, foreclosure can actually help begin the process of revitalizing neighborhoods. For more information on this subject, visit www.clevelandfed.org/pr/foreclosure

Tips for Getting Your Furnace Ready for Winter

2009-12-03T12:03:00.000-08:00

(NewsUSA) - Frigid days are fast approaching. And as snow falls and temperatures plummet, it is important to make sure your furnace is in proper working condition. Follow these tips to make sure you don't get left in the cold this winter.

1. Have your heating equipment properly maintained and cleaned by a licensed heating and cooling contractor.

2. Have the duct work checked for air leaks. Research shows that faulty ductwork accounts for more than 25 percent of the heating loss in an average home.

3. Replace air filters. A dirty filter restricts air flow and causes the unit to lose efficiency.

4. Use a programmable thermostat. By setting your thermostat from 72 degrees to 65 degrees for eight hours a day (for instance, while no one is home or while everyone is sleeping) you can cut your heating bill by up to 10 percent according to the Department of Energy.

5. Keep air supply and return registers free from obstructions (for example, furniture, rugs, and clothes baskets).

6. Use a whole-home humidifier. Heated indoor air is very dry and needs to be humidified. Actually, one of the driest places on earth could be your home. Don't believe it? The relative humidity of the Sahara Desert is 25 percent; Death Valley's 23 percent. In the winter months, the average heated home can have a relative humidity as low as 13 to 16 percent. The benefits of using an Aprilaire automatic whole-home humidifier include:

* Comfort helps eliminate dry nose and throat and itchy skin, while also reducing static electricity.

* Well being optimum humidity levels can help reduce the chance of upper-respiratory problems caused by dry air. Ask your doctor.

* Preservation proper humidification levels will protect against shrinkage and cracking in furniture, moldings and hardwood floors.

* Energy savings adding moisture to the air means you'll feel warmer with lower, energy-saving indoor temperatures. A home heated to 69 degree with 35 percent humidity feels just as warm as a 72 degree home at 19 percent humidity.

Visit www.aprilaire.com for more information.

Professional Ranges Make Gourmet Meals

2009-12-02T11:14:00.000-08:00

(NewsUSA) - Watching food programs has become a favorite activity for many Americans, but recreating the gourmet meals onscreen is often easier said than done. True, television chefs often have cooking degrees from fancy schools and years of restaurant experience, but you don't need to be a professional to put an impressive meal on the table. What you do need is professional-quality cooking equipment.

Americans looking for the professional cooking experience can buy professional ranges for home-use. These ranges mimic the power and larger cooking surfaces of commercial models in a heavy duty, stainless steel package with the insulation and convenience features required for cooking at home.

A burner on a standard stove has a power output of about 9,000 BTU, whereas a professional range for the home will average 15,000 BTU. Putting even more power to work for home chefs, Thermador's Professional Series ranges and rangetops feature star-shaped burners with an output of 18,000 BTU each. The results: with this much power on every burner, large pots of water will boil in a fraction of the time, and overall faster and more even heating results, allowing the most challenging recipes and techniques to be mastered at home.

Thermador, which started making professional-style ranges for home use in the 1990s, recently introduced its fourth-generation Star Burner. The burner's unique design directs heat evenly from the center of the pan to its edges creating a more even and superior distribution of heat than the standard circular burner, reducing cold spots, which ultimately affects the way the food will cook. Thermador Professional Series ranges also feature patented ExtraLow simmer burners, which have an output of 375 BTU per hour. This precise simmer control system enables home cooks to heat delicate sauces or melt chocolate without scorching or stirring.

Professional ranges for the home also offer a streamlined, professional look. With a bold, chiseled profile, high-grade stainless steel knobs and an angled door handle, the Professional Series from Thermador creates a classic, robust feel in any home kitchen.

For more information, visit www.thermador.com

Resolve to Get Organized in 2010

2009-11-25T05:20:00.000-08:00

(NewsUSA) - Start 2010 with a bang: organize your home and work space! Take the first step by installing shelving that is specifically suited to maximize your space. To successfully clear out and keep out clutter, you need storage space. The folks who operate www.Shelving.com and www.TheShelvingStore.com have been providing shelving and storage fixtures for over fifty years. They know that one size does not fit all when it comes to maximizing your available storage space.

When measuring the space for your shelving project, go up as high as you can. If you have a 9-foot ceiling, use shelving units

that are 8-feet high. If you have large and bulky items to store, use shelves that are as deep as your space will allow. Shelving units that are 24-inch, 30-inch, 36-inch deep or even deeper provide much-needed room.

The more shelves you have in each unit, the greater your storage space per square feet of density. For example, a 24-inch-deep by 48-inch-wide shelving unit will occupy 8 square feet of floor space. If you erect a shelving unit 8 feet high and add eight shelves to the unit, you would create 128 square feet of shelving space in just 8 square feet of floor space. Think higher, deeper, wider and add as many shelf levels as possible if you want to get the most density out of your floor space.

Be organized (always), be practical (keep it simple) and get some functional shelving. Wall-mounted decorative shelving is a wonderful complement to just about any room, and they create shelving space where free-standing shelving wouldn't be appropriate. Consider glass shelving for a more contemporary design, or wood grain shelves for a softer, warmer tone.

Whatever your interior design tastes, there are shelves that will satisfy your desire for form and function. With decorative wall-mounted shelving, you can display your prized items like trophies, pottery and pictures in frames. Your home and office should reflect your personality, so choose personalized displays. Using the right shelf will get you on your way to being organized.

An efficient home is a happy home. Start 2010 happy and organized with the help of The Shelving Store.

Visit their Web sites at www.TheShelvingStore.com and www.Shelving.com for more ideas on how to better utilize your existing storage space. They offer free shelving designs for any project.

Get organized for Holidays

Mastering the Alaska Home Heating Test

2009-10-29T10:49:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - If a wall-hung boiler can heat a home in Alaska problem-free for 10 winters, then it can heat a home anywhere, according to mechanical contractor Mike La Fay.

La Fay, owner of Meadow Lakes Supply in Wasilla, Alaska, installed his first Baxi Luna modulating wall-hung boiler in early 2000. Since then, he has installed more than 100 of these high efficiency, eco-friendly heating appliances in homes throughout Matanuska Susitna County, which is a 50-minute drive north-east from Anchorage.

"It can be 30 below zero here for three weeks straight, so a reliable heating appliance is essential for both home comfort and survival," La Fay says. "I have not experienced any significant problem with Baxi Luna performance. With Gensco, the exclusive Baxi distributor in Alaska stocking parts and accessories, I am really looking forward to my second decade as a Baxi contractor."

Gensco is a leading wholesale distributor of heating supplies and equipment, selling only to qualified contractors trade in Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana since 1947. More recently, Gensco supplied 250 Baxi Luna boilers for an award-winning community redevelopment of Seattle Housing Authority, which reported 37 percent energy use savings over another hydronic heating system.

"My neighborhood just got natural gas recently, so I now have a Baxi Luna heating our family home and my shop. Our former oil fuel bill was up to $500 a month, and now we are spending around $150 for gas," La Fay notes. "You simply can't get better than that -- saving lots of money while knowing your heating system will withstand the coldest challenges of our winter."

Baxi is one of Europe's largest heating products manufacturer and has been making leading wall-hung boilers since the late 1960s. The firm's Bassano, Italy, plant has been producing Baxi Luna wallhung heating since it opened in 1978 and now makes 4,000 boilers a day for export to 70 countries, including the United States. Baxi heat exchangers are stainless steel and bear the ASME H-Stamp.

"I can recommend this appliance to homeowners with confidence, knowing it has a proven Alaska track record for quality, safety and environmental performance," says La Fay, who does ongoing maintenance of his installations and remains committed to learning more about the product. "I have learned a lot from a Baxi Luna training and contractor-certification CD-ROM. It is a great tool for a contractor located in Alaska."

To learn more about proven Baxi energy-efficient, eco-friendly heating solutions, including modulating, condensing or near-condensing boilers

(in either combination central heating and domestic hot water mode, or heating-only), visit www.wallhungboilers.com

Make Pool Maintenance Mindless, Eco-Friendly

2009-10-22T10:27:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Most people want to enjoy their pools, not spend time maintaining them. And with today's busy schedules, it's easier than ever to make mistakes, like running pool equipment too long or letting the water go green -- and not in the eco-friendly sense.

But automating pool functions can save up to 75 percent of a pool's annual energy costs, while also reducing chemical use and maintenance time. Pool owners can customize pool functions to their schedule. For example, someone may set their pool's filter pump to run longer or more often on weekends, when the pool experiences heavier use.

The pool experts at Hayward offer the following tips for Americans looking to enjoy their pools with minimum effort and maximum savings:

- Replace your pool's filter pump. A pool pump may be your home's second or third largest energy consumer after air conditioning units. But a multi-speed, energy-efficient pump can save up to 75 percent on your pool operating costs. Hayward recommends its Tristar 2-speed pump or Variable Speed pump that features up to eight programmable speeds. Owners can further reduce energy consumption by setting each action's time, speed and duration, or setting the pump to work during off-hours.

- Use a robotic cleaner. A robotic cleaner can quickly pay for itself, saving up to 94 percent of the energy used by a pressure cleaner and booster pump. The best models, like the TigerShark, use little energy themselves, operate independently from other pool functions and shut off after cleaning.

- Are you still flipping switches? Save energy by managing your pool and spa functions with automation. The new OnCommand automatic pool controls can be retrofitted to your pool for less than the price of your next big-screen TV. Program and control up to 4 functions such as your multi-speed filter pump, booster pump, pool/spa lights, heater or pool cleaner.

For more information, visit www.haywardnet.com

Tips for Creating a Sustainable, Stylish, High-Performing Bathroom

2009-10-22T10:15:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Pioneering new product solutions can transform any bathroom from a water-and-money-waster to a water-and-cash-saver without sacrificing style or performance. Think that your bathroom doesn't offer a significant potential for cash savings? Think again.

Let's do a little math with the help of the Water Savings Calculator (www.americanstandard-us.com/water-efficiency/) created by American Standard. Using an average residential cost of $6.06 per 1,000 gallons of water per year, consider this:

* Install new 1.28-gallon-per-flush (gpf) high-efficiency toilets to replace older (pre-1990) 3.5 gpf toilets currently in your home. With the average toilet being flushed 12 times per day, replacing two older toilets saves $118 and 19,447 gallons of water per year.

* Replace three 2.2-gallon-per-minute (gpm) faucets with 0.5 gpm WaterSense-labeled faucets and use them the same 40 minutes per day. The result: Save $451 and 74,460 gallons per year.

* Swap out two 3.0 gpm showerheads for new 1.5 gpm models and save $265 and 43,800 gallons per year.

Grab the calculator -- in one year, the average household can save $834 and more than four swimming pools' worth of water!

Bulking up your wallet and saving water become all the more appealing when combined with a new generation of plumbing products that offer peak performance. Remember these product selection tips as you outfit a new, greener bathroom for your home:

* Look for the WaterSense label. Created by the Environmental Protection Agency, this label certifies that products reduce water usage by 20 percent or more without sacrificing performance. The WaterSense label is currently available for high-efficiency toilets (HETs) and faucets. American Standard has the most high-efficiency toilets independently rated to flush more than two pounds of solids. All American Standard bathroom faucets are WaterSense-certified, and they comply with stringent new no-lead requirements.

* Keep performance front and center when going green. The goal is conservation without sacrifice. Using as little as 1.0 gallon of water on the light setting, the H2Option Dual Flush HET scours the sides of the bowl with a strong push-and-pull siphonic action created by a forceful, but quiet, jetted action under the rim. The FloWise three-function showerhead has the option of a full 2.5 gallon flow rate, but an internal turbine also delivers invigorating sprays at lower water-use settings.

Get Organized for Holiday Entertaining

2009-10-16T16:54:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - As you start preparing for holiday guests, take a look at your home. Is it crowded with clutter? If so, you might want to think about getting your home in order. After all, you need to make room for a Christmas tree, gifts and stockings!

Not sure how to start? Here are some tips from Shelving.com, where folks have been making space work better for almost 50 years. If you need more efficient storage space, they have the answer:

- Maximize your space. If you have an old-fashioned closet with just one shelf and one hanging bar, install shelves and use all the vertical space you have. Most closets only utilize about 50 percent of their storage capacity. With a properly designed shelving system, you can use nearly all of the available space.

- Make items easy to find. You don't want to waste time pawing through closets or searching under beds to find what you need, so don't just jam clutter out of sight. Create a more efficient storage space. Use labeled bins in your closet. Box up and store off season items. Use shelves and drawers to categorize items.

- Decorate with storage space. Put ottomans in the living room, and use them to store magazines or board games. Hang attractive shelves to decorate along your walls. Instead of end tables, use antique chests or drawers that also provide useable storage space.

Keeping calm during the chaotic holiday season starts at home -- clutter creates stress and will certainly disrupt the peace and joy of the holiday season. Start with one project (say, a single room or closet) before tackling another.

An efficient home is a happy home. Become happy and organized with the help of The Shelving Store. Visit their Web site at www.TheShelvingStore.com/small for ideas. They offer free shelving designs for just about any space in your home.

Must-Do Kitchen Maintenance

2009-10-07T07:40:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - As cooler weather approaches, folks start preparing their home for the long winter months, when entertaining moves from the deck to the kitchen.

As you clean your home, consider giving your appliances tune-ups to keep them running more efficiently. The home economists at Whirlpool Corporation offer several quick tips and tricks to prepare the kitchen for the holiday entertaining season:

* Change the water filter. Be sure to change the refrigerator water filter every six months to keep water fresh and free of contaminants.

* Use the dishwasher. According to ENERGY STAR, the U.S. government program that certifies energy-efficient appliances, washing dishes by hand uses much more water than using a dishwasher. Using an ENERGY STAR-qualified dishwasher instead of hand washing will save 5,000 gallons of water, $40 in utility costs and 230 hours of your time each year.

* Stop pre-rinsing dishes. When you pre-rinse dishes, the detergent doesn't have any grease or grime to stick to. As a result, the detergent will attack dishes, making them appear cloudy, scratched or etched.

* Get rid of dust bunnies. Use a slender vacuum attachment or hosiery wrapped around a yardstick to clear out dust and debris from behind and underneath the refrigerator. Dusting will help the fridge run more efficiently.

* Switch to electric. Electric cooktops are about twice as energy-efficient as gas. Electric elements have high-efficiency insulation surrounding the element, and the close proximity to the pot or pan allows efficient heat transfer.

* Do a clean sweep. Cleaning appliances on a regular basis can keep unwanted odors at bay, since it has the tendency to exist anywhere moisture is present in a closed environment. Dishwashers and garbage disposals fit the bill -- clean them every 30 days to prevent odors from leftover food particles and residue.

To help make this chore a little easier, Whirlpool Corporation developed affresh Dishwasher and Disposal Cleaner, the only two-in-one product on the market that removes unwanted odors in dishwashers and garbage disposals. Recommended for monthly use, consumers simply drop the tablets into the dishwasher and disposal for a convenient and affordable solution to unpleasant odors.

For additional information and product availability, please visit www.affresh.com

Professional Ranges Make Gourmet Meals

2009-10-01T11:59:00.000-07:00

Expert Tips for Proper Pool Closing

2009-09-29T09:29:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - You might not think about your pool too much after the end of summer, but what you do at the end of swimming season will determine your workload come spring. Properly winterizing your pool will make opening it easier, not to mention help prevent damage.

Poorly winterized pools may sustain freeze-thaw damage, broken equipment, underground drain damage and poor water quality in the spring. Every year, Americans spend thousands of dollars repairing pools that were not closed properly.

BioGuard, a company that supplies water treatment products for recreational and industrial use, offers the following tips for pool owners looking to properly close their pools:

* Conduct a final pool water test. Bring a water sample to your local BioGuard dealer to receive a quick, computerized water analysis. The water analysis will ensure that the water in your pool is balanced. After the dealer tests your water, he or she can recommend and provide the exact materials you need to close your pool for the winter, including information on protecting your pool surfaces and equipment.

* Brush the walls and floor of your pool and vacuum it thoroughly. Clean the skimmer basket and lint trap.

* Use a special filter cleaner to thoroughly clean the filter. A dirty filter can cake and harden over the winter, leaving a messy and difficult clean-up job.

* With the pump and filter on, add the appropriate amount of winter shock around the edges of the pool. Wait an hour, then add winter algaecide. Keep the pump and filter on for another hour.

* If you completely cover and close your pool, drain it to just below the return water lines. Also, drain your equipment and then add pool-winterizing anti-freeze to pipes and equipment. In colder climates, it may be advisable to remove the pump and filter, and store them in an enclosed structure. Consult your local BioGuard dealer for specific instructions.

* Finally, cover your pool to protect from winter winds, leaves, dirt and debris.

For more information, visit www.BioGuard.com or visit your local BioGuard dealer.

Accessorize Your Bathroom on a Budget

2009-09-24T09:22:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Decorating a bathroom on a budget is a lot like updating a wardrobe on a budget. Work with what you have, and use accessories to update and add the "wow" factor.

In the bathroom, accessorizing can even include bathroom sink faucets. "With a pre-assembled drain assembly such as Speed Connect, a new faucet is easier to add than a new coat of paint," says Gray Uhl, design director for American Standard. "Even better, top performing lifetime finishes and drip-free, solid brass faucets start as low as $100."

Trend No. 1: Warmer Finishes. Special finishes in warmer tones such as satin nickel, oil-rubbed bronze and blackened bronze are currently popular in hardware and faucets, coordinating well with creams and browns in linens and wall décor. "Matte black finish is the proverbial height of fashion for faucets and accessories right now," says Leslie Clagett on her blog, kbculture.blogspot.com.

Trend No. 2: American Minimalism. "Styles such as the Moments, Copeland and Princeton faucet collections echo the same geometric lines and styling familiar in European contemporary design, but warmer and softer," says Uhl. "American minimalist faucets and accessories look best when paired with warmer tones and rich wood surfaces in cabinets and bathroom furniture." Uhl notes that an easy way to get the look is with a design-matched collection such as Tropic, which includes furniture, faucets and fixtures.

Trend No. 3: Escape. Turn even a small bathroom into a spa experience with a serene, monochromatic look and plant oils that create a soothing aroma. Asian-inspired design such as the Green Tea bathroom sink faucet completes the look, with the added benefit of a discrete pull-out spout, which makes it easy to rinse the sink or wash delicate clothing items or one's hair.

Trend No. 4: The Responsible Bathroom. Look for the WaterSense label on new bathroom faucets. The WaterSense label is an assurance that water use will be reduced by 30 percent or more, without sacrificing performance. Replacing three older faucets with three WaterSense-labeled faucets can save almost $500 and 74,000 gallons of water per year.

Style Trend No. 5: You. Most importantly, don't be afraid to be yourself. Bathrooms are personal spaces, so personal statements work well, including tasteful humor. After all, if you can't be yourself in the bathroom, where can you be yourself?

Mastering the Alaska Home Heating Test

2009-09-17T09:56:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - If a wall-hung boiler can heat a home in Alaska problem-free for 10 winters, then it can heat a home anywhere, according to mechanical contractor Mike La Fay.

La Fay, owner of Meadow Lakes Supply in Wasilla, Alaska, installed his first Baxi Luna modulating wall-hung boiler in early 2000. Since then, he has installed more than 100 of these high efficiency, eco-friendly heating appliances in homes throughout Matanuska Susitna County, which is a 50-minute drive north-east from Anchorage.

"It can be 30 below zero here for three weeks straight, so a reliable heating appliance is essential for both home comfort and survival," La Fay says. "I have not experienced any significant problem with Baxi Luna performance. With Gensco, the exclusive Baxi distributor in Alaska stocking parts and accessories, I am really looking forward to my second decade as a Baxi contractor."

Gensco is a leading wholesale distributor of heating supplies and equipment, selling only to qualified contractors trade in Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana since 1947. More recently, Gensco supplied 250 Baxi Luna boilers for an award-winning community redevelopment of Seattle Housing Authority, which reported 37 percent energy use savings over another hydronic heating system.

"My neighborhood just got natural gas recently, so I now have a Baxi Luna heating our family home and my shop. Our former oil fuel bill was up to $500 a month, and now we are spending around $150 for gas," La Fay notes. "You simply can't get better than that -- saving lots of money while knowing your heating system will withstand the coldest challenges of our winter."

Baxi is one of Europe's largest heating products manufacturer and has been making leading wall-hung boilers since the late 1960s. The firm's Bassano, Italy, plant has been producing Baxi Luna wallhung heating since it opened in 1978 and now makes 4,000 boilers a day for export to 70 countries, including the United States. Baxi heat exchangers are stainless steel and bear the ASME H-Stamp.

"I can recommend this appliance to homeowners with confidence, knowing it has a proven Alaska track record for quality, safety and environmental performance," says La Fay, who does ongoing maintenance of his installations and remains committed to learning more about the product. "I have learned a lot from a Baxi Luna training and contractor-certification CD-ROM. It is a great tool for a contractor located in Alaska."

To learn more about proven Baxi energy-efficient, eco-friendly heating solutions, including modulating, condensing or near-condensing boilers (in either combination central heating and domestic hot water mode, or heating-only), visit www.wallhungboilers.com

Heated Stairs Step Up Safety, Convenience

2009-09-15T10:09:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Anyone who has lived with snow knows that stairs present a unique challenge. They ice up quickly, becoming slippery and dangerous. Outdoor stairs, which often come in irregular sizes, can be difficult to shovel, especially for senior citizens.

And even if you remove snow, your stairs may still ice up. Melting snow from the roof often falls on stairs leading up to a doorstep, creating dangerous ice layers. Using sand or rock salt is hardly an ideal situation. Many Americans are not physically able to carry heavy bags. When the salt dissolves, it poses a threat to local flora and fauna.

Companies and schools with large facilities have taken a unique approach to ensuring safer stairs in wintery weather -- instead of trying to remove snow after it falls, they're using a product that melts snow before it has a chance to build up.

At age 15, Hillel Glazer decided he no longer wanted to shovel snow, so he disassembled a heating pad and combined it with a doormat, promptly shorting out the electricity in his parents' home. As an adult -- and with the help of engineers -- Glazer returned to his original snow-melting mat idea.

Today, Glazer's company, HeatTrak, makes heated mats that keep walkways clear of snow. Long used by large commercial facilities, HeatTrak's Stair Mats are now available to homeowners.

Built with weatherproof, ribbed carpet, HeatTrak Residential Stair Mats are durable enough to be left outside for the entire winter. The mats plug into standard outlets and generate enough heat to melt snow at a rate of two inches per hour. If homeowners turn the mats on when snow first begins to fall, snowflakes will dissolve as soon as they hit the mats, leaving slip-free stairs.

HeatTrak Stair Mats are safe to own and operate. Each mat has a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) that instantly shuts off the mat when it senses a current leak. HeatTrak products are sold throughout the United States, Canada and Europe.

For more information, visit www.heattrak.com

If Mahogany Entry Doors Could Talk

2009-09-07T07:50:00.000-07:00

If only my doors could talk, I wonder what they would suggest I do to them. My house is currently under renovation and everything that needs to be done has been ironed out except the door aspect.
See, the root of this renovation project happens to be my termite infested custom made entry doors. I don’t know if I’m the one at fault or the company that installed these doors five years ago; yes, so recent that’s why I’m so distraught with the idea of having to spend again on new doors.

Anyway, my mother suggested Mahogany double entry doors are the perfect choice and the reason of which I really don’t know. She said properly finished Mahogany exterior doors will keep the termites away. Does that mean the company that made my first custom doors did not apply the proper finishing? Somehow mom’s statement made me feel vindicated as I realized I’m not to be blamed for what had befell my doors, but then again I’m the one spending for the Mahogany entry doors so there’s no reason to celebrate.

‘Why, there is, dear! You have every reason to celebrate,” mom said upon hearing my murmur. She went on to say that a friend of hers runs a company that offers fabulous custom made American Red Oak doors, exterior French panel doors, exterior iron insulated doors, and mesmerizing Mahogany interior doors that exude that quaint appeal of Victorian architecture.

Mom speaks to me in vague language all the time. What do I know about architecture and I have zero knowledge about Victoria or is it Victory? Right now, all I want are affordable new entry doors regardless if they’re Mahogany or from Mrs. Victoria’s architecture. Mom said she’ll talk to her friend who offers huge discounts on regular clients and amigas so she’s positive she can get me a great deal.

Stayed at mom’s house for a month and then I returned home to see what has become of my place. As I pulled up in the driveway, I had my eyes fixed on the entry doors which Mom labeled Murano Brazilian Mahogany. Whatever that meant, it was beautiful and very classy. I told mom I’ll go check inside the house but she told me to stop and say hello to the doors first because if only they could talk, they’d offer me a grand welcome.

For additional information, click this site on Mahogany interior doors.

Wood Stove Heating Basics

2009-09-07T07:40:00.000-07:00

Wood stoves are commonly use in almost all American households. It is utilized for generating heat and it gives comfort. It is also commonly used for cooking food. The concept of the wood stove was patterned from the fireplace. During the old days, most American households make use of the fireplace to provide heat to their homes.

It was also widely used in the preparation and cooking of meals. With the help of the famous Benjamin Franklin, the first stove was invented. It was made up of cast iron. It had two doors with a pot belly that is large. It operates by burning wood which was inserted in the pot belly of the stove. With the help of the two doors the fire and also the draft can be controlled.

These stoves are very efficient but at the same time it possesses some risk. The usage of these stoves can cause harm to its users and at the same time very dangerous to the health. The utilization of chemically treated wood for burning releases carcinogens to the air. These carcinogens are very harmful are very dangerous to the immune system especially when inhaled. This will also result to respiratory problems and can also cause eye irritation to its users.

With the help of modern technology latest models of wood stoves were later developed. These stoves are very efficient compared to its predecessor and less harmful. And with the growing health hazards cause by the utilization of these wood burning stoves, laws and regulations were imposed by the American Government with the Agency on Environment Protection on the lead. The agency checks the manufactures products if it passes the safety and health regulations before it is distributed in the market.

It will be a violation against the law if the manufacturers of these stoves will sell these in the market without the certification from the agency. To find out further information about wood stoves, visit: ibuywoodstoves.com

Sorting Out the Differences Between Front-Load and Top-Load Laundry

2009-09-03T11:44:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - What a difference a door makes -- that's what homeowners are discovering when shopping for new laundry appliances. Before deciding among different makes and models, the first decision for many shoppers is the choice between a top-load and a front-load washer.

Top-Load Laundry

Long the standard in American homes, top-load washers are still much like the original electric powered machines introduced in the 1920s in that they feature an agitator. Top-loaders submerge clothes in a full tub of water and rely on the agitator to twist and pull clothes through the soapy water. These two features are also the biggest drawbacks. Since the top-loader's basin must completely fill with water, it can use up to 45 gallons of water per load. The agitator's rough, jerking motion subjects clothes to added wear, tear and potential damage.

The end result: top-loaders are cheaper to purchase, but cost more money to operate.

Front-Load Laundry

Instead of an agitator, front-load washing machines use sophisticated systems to gently flip and spin clothes through a shallow pool of water. This gentle tumbling motion helps lengthen the life of often-washed items and allows many models to safely clean silk, wool and other hand-washables.

While front-load washers tend to cost more initially, their energy and water savings over the life of the machine will save more money over time. Even with the reduced water levels, front-loading machines are able to wash the same amount of laundry per load, if not more, due to the absence of a bulky agitator.

Vision, the ENERGY STAR-qualified full-size front-load washer from Bosch, uses only 13 gallons of water for an average-sized load. Advanced energy-saving technology like EcoSmart uses a network of sensors and intelligent controls that continually analyze how full the load is and the suds level in the water. By automatically adjusting the water temperature, water level and rinse cycles, Vision minimizes the amount of water and energy to get clothes absolutely clean. In fact, Bosch is the most energy- and water-efficient brand of full-size front-load washers in the U.S. Front-load washers are known to reduce energy consumption by more than 40 percent but with features such as EcoAction, Vision's energy usage is cut by an additional 20 percent.

The end result: front-loaders are perfect for families looking to save on energy and water bills while machine washing a broad variety of laundry.

Tips to Live Large in a Smaller Space

2009-09-03T11:32:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Today's economic reality has changed the spaces that Americans call "home." Some have downsized, moving into smaller and more affordable homes. Other families have expanded, bringing grandparents and older children under the same roof.

But moving into a smaller space -- or having to make the same space accommodate more people -- presents challenges. Where are you going to put everything? How are you going to make rooms feel comfortable, not crowded?

The experts at TheShelvingStore.com, a company that specializes in designing shelving systems to fit any space, offer the following tips to find more room in your smaller space:

- "Edit" your belongings. If you're moving into a significantly smaller space, you will need to get rid of some items. Make a list of the pieces your new home needs, like beds, sofas and dining room tables. Look at the pieces you own, and determine what will work in your new space. If you don't like a piece, don't use it often or don't think it fits the decor of your new space, it's time to donate or sell.

- Eliminate clutter. Life is too busy to have clutter. Don't shove too much stuff in one space. Use all of the space you have to get rid of clutter. Creative storage solutions prove both functional and decorative. Consider chrome wire shelves, which are economical, keep stored items ventilated and eliminate the need to dust. While buying wire shelves at a big discount store can prove problematic -- you might have trouble finding shelves to fit your space -- specialized companies like TheShelvingStore.com offer a wide variety of sizes and styles.

- Let the light in. Contrary to popular belief, painting a room white doesn't make it look larger, just cold and uninviting. Choose soft pastels to warm up rooms. Make sure that light comes in from the windows by choosing light drapes in quality fabrics. Not only do drapes make a room feel homier, they can also add an illusion of height. If a room's dark, add extra lighting with sconces and uplighting, not hanging lights, which can make the ceiling look low. Decorate with mirrors to redirect light, making spaces feel more open.

For more information, visit www.TheShelvingStore.com/small or www.Shelving.com

Granite Countertops Still Top List of Home Improvements

2009-07-09T09:50:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Despite the sputtering economy, consumer spending on home renovation remains healthy. Across the nation, homeowners are investing in home remodeling projects - especially kitchen makeovers - either to make their homes more appealing to buyers or more comfortable and enjoyable while they ride out the housing slump.

And one of the most popular home improvements is, once again, granite countertops.

A recent study of 10,000 consumers, conducted by the Research Institute for Cooking and Kitchen Intelligence, found that kitchen renovations remain at the top of the list for consumers seeking to add value to their homes. When the study asked homeowners, "If you were changing your kitchen now and had no budget constraints, what improvement would you make?" granite countertops were among the kitchen features they coveted most.

Many consumers are tightening their belts but remain eager for granite countertops, according to Garis Distelhorst, executive vice president of the Marble Institute of America, the nation's leading natural stone association.

"Historically, consumers recognize that granite countertops enhance the value of a home in ways few other improvements can," said Distelhorst. "No other countertop surface can measure up to granite in terms of practicality, timeless beauty, durability and safety. This natural stone has held its value in ways more trendy materials have not."

Consumers continue to invest confidently in kitchen makeovers because the projects typically increase the resale value of their homes. In the last five years, kitchen remodeling projects have generally returned 80 to 85 percent of consumers' investments, according to the "Cost versus Value Report" from Remodeling magazine.

Because kitchen renovations increase resale values, experts agree that if consumers can only afford to renovate one room in their homes, it should be the kitchen. In fact, an all-new kitchen "that looks great and is fun to work in" was the top priority of 2,200 home enthusiasts surveyed recently by Better Homes and Gardens magazine.

"What we've discovered is that the home continues to be our emotional center and the sweet spot of everyday life," said Gayle Butler, Better Home's editor in chief. "Economic uncertainty aside, we won't stop spending, improving and dreaming."

For more information, visit the Marble Institute Web site, www.usenaturalstone.com

Turn Your Home into a Cabin Retreat

2009-06-30T12:20:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Vacation. Every year, millions of Americans take planes, trains and automobiles to escape to their favorite destinations, whether it's for relaxation, adventure or something in between. But if a dream vacation is not in your budget, consider other options.

Each year, DIY Network gives one lucky winner their very own state-of-the-art vacation retreat that is designed by the viewers. Online, viewers vote on the many different phases of each home project, then watch as construction is documented in TV's only interactive home-building series, Blog Cabin. Locations for the three cabins thus far include mountain-side retreats and lakefront getaways that encompass everything about a vacation destination.

If you are not lucky enough to win the Blog Cabin, there are several ways to incorporate some of the cabin's design elements into your home to experience the relaxation or adventure and create a destination of your own while investing in your home:

* Take it outside. More than ever, homeowners are expanding their living space to the outdoors. Whether you add a fire pit or an entire outdoor kitchen to the backyard, the space will inspire gatherings and a break from the norm.

* Upgrade your landscaping. Replicate your favorite vacation spot by trying to mimic its vegetation. If you like the tropics, plant lots of lush, brightly colored plants. Add a tiki bar to the design, and you'll never want to leave home again.

* Create a sanctuary for the man of the house. Build him a man cave, a man-only zone in the house where only he has decorative input. Transform the basement, the garage or even the attic into a place where he can play without interruption from his wife or kids. The women of the house will benefit from the man cave by enjoying the rest of the house without interference from the guys.

* Get the kids outside by building them a tree fort or play house. Get them involved in the design, and have it reflect their interests and hobbies. Once it's built, let the kids direct you in how they would like it to be furnished.

For more information on DIY Network's Blog Cabin or ideas on creating a home retreat, visit www.diynetwork.com

Enrich Your Home and Environment With Legal, Domestic Hardwood

2009-05-26T10:22:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - More Americans might be driving hybrid cars and recycling, but their hardwood kitchen and living room floors can be just as critical to climate change.

No one knows exactly how much illegal hardwood enters the United States, but estimates range from $250 million to $375 million worth per year -- much of which is used for high-end flooring.

Most illegal hardwood comes from tropical rain forests, delicate ecosystems with high biodiversity. Tropical hardwoods protect the soil -- removing them prevents other plants from growing and allows rain to strip away nutrients from the soil. Studies have shown that rain forest deforestation accounts for 18 percent of greenhouse gases.

In December 2008, the U.S. government amended The Lacey Act, its oldest wildlife protection statute, to discourage illegal hardwood imports. According to the amendment, anyone involved in the import, purchase or sale of illegal wood is subject to one to five years in prison and $100,000 to $500,000 in fines per violation.

The U.S. Customs Service monitors suspicious cargo, but too much wood is imported into the U.S. to catch every illegal shipment. However, consumers can take steps to avoid the purchase of illegal hardwood. Shaw, a company that supplies easy-to-install hardwood products, provides the following tips for Americans looking to enrich their homes with gorgeous hardwood without destroying rain forests:

- Look for hardwood that is made in the U.S. Choosing American-sourced wood not only supports the country's economy, it helps to ensure that the hardwood is legally harvested from managed forests, which are a truly renewable resource.

- Beware of exotic wood products. Woods like Brazilian cherry or mongoy are much more likely to have been harvested illegally than non-exotic woods.

- Do your homework. Ask questions before purchasing your floor to make sure it is from a retailer that sources its hardwood products from a trustworthy, legal distributor.

- Consider domestic species of hardwood. Although woods like hickory, oak, birch and maple are grown in America, advanced staining techniques allow these species to have the exotic looks many homeowners desire without the risk of purchasing illegally harvested products.

- Look for eco-friendly laminate products. Shaw's Luminiere collection mimics exotic woods like Ipe heartwood and teak, but doesn't require any illegal harvesting. Better yet, the laminate uses 98 percent less newly harvested wood than most hardwood products and features a high-density-fiber core made from recycled wood.

For more information, visit www.shawfloors.com

Upgrade Your Home's Curb Appeal Without Long-Term Maintenance Woes

2009-05-26T08:56:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Looking to update your home's exterior with a look that requires little maintenance? With a few simple changes, you can add character and upgrade your home's curb appeal without adding items to your to-do list.

Explore endless design and earth-friendly siding options.

Is the siding chipping, staining or rotting? Your siding may need a power wash. If it does need replacement, talk with your local contractor about low-maintenance and environmentally friendly vinyl and fiber cement siding options.

Some styles, such as CertainTeed's CedarBoards Insulated Vinyl Siding, can increase the overall thermal performance of your wall by up to 30 percent, helping to reduce heating and cooling costs. Offering color retention along with resistance to wind, water, insect and chemical damage, vinyl and fiber cement siding is engineered to keep a home looking beautiful for many years.

Don't forget to look up.

Since a roof makes up 40 percent of a home's exterior, make sure yours is in tiptop shape. Use binoculars to look for missing, cracked, curling or decaying shingles. If any are spotted, it may be time to replace your roof.

Consider asphalt shingles, which can last many years and add dimensional appeal to your home. Shingles, such as CertainTeed's Landmark Solaris, can also reflect solar energy and radiate heat, making for a lower-temperature roof in the summer.

Create a comfortable "living room" outdoors.

Vinyl fencing displays consistent quality and appearance. It doesn't require painting, making it nearly maintenance-free and a great alternative to traditional materials.

A low-maintenance option to wood is Galveston with CertaGrain. Using an innovative texturing process, CertaGrain features an authentic wood-like appearance in an easy-to-maintain vinyl design while providing resistance to the decay, warping or splintering that are common with wood fences.

Adding a fence also functions as more than just a means of privacy. A fence provides security, enhances the curb appeal of a home and may increase the property value.

Make sure the work is done right, and partner with a qualified contractor.

Homeowners should be sure to work with a qualified contractor. Check with your local Better Business Bureau and seek contractors who are licensed, bonded and insured.

For more information on low-maintenance home improvements tips, call 800-782-8777 or visit www.certainteed.com

Get Your Garage in Gear For the Hottest Time of Year

2009-05-19T15:40:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Whether used for hosting block parties, garage sales or serving as the main entranceway to the home, the garage is often a hub of activity during the summer months for many families. Now is the time to get your garage in gear.

Check out these tips from The Chamberlain Group, a residential and commercial access solutions manufacturer of LiftMaster garage door openers:

* With the additional traffic running through the garage during this time of year, it's wise to perform a periodic safety inspection of your garage door, especially those equipped with automatic openers.

* Test the opener's safety reverse mechanism monthly by placing a piece of wood or a roll of paper towels in the path of the door. Close the garage door. If it does not automatically reverse and retract back the open position, then the door is creating a safety issue and needs to be adjusted. Log on to LiftMaster.com to find a certified dealer near you and learn what they can do to fix the problem.

* Since storage and organizational needs change between spring and summer, it's a great time to pull out the patio furniture and keep other items you need for the season, such as the lawn mower, grill, and recreational items and toys near the exit to the garage so they are easy to access and use.

* It may seem like you're adding to the mess, but grass clippings are great for keeping dust under control in your garage. Next time you mow your lawn, sprinkle your fresh lawn clippings on the garage floor, then sweep it clean.

* Keep the garage clear of oily and greasy rags as they are easily flammable and can ignite spontaneously. Keep a fire extinguisher in an easily accessible area in the garage as well.

* Protect your garage (and entrance to your home) while you're away on a summer vacation. By installing a LiftMaster Fingerprint Keyless Entry, which recognizes up to 10 unique fingerprints as a way to access your garage, no one can enter or exit your garage while you are gone during vacation -- preventing it from being opened in your absence by a stranger. Also ideal for busy families, the Fingerprint Keyless Entry means no more digging for keys or worrying about kids in the neighborhood knowing the keypad's code.

For more information on these products or to contact a LiftMaster professional, visit www.LiftMaster.com

Earn Federal Tax Credits for Insulated Window Treatments

2009-05-19T10:53:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - In a struggling economy, Americans are taking a closer look at their heating and cooling bills. Keeping a home at a comfortable temperature can use considerable energy -- especially if hot and cold air fly out the window.

Windows can be a major area of heat transfer. During winter, cold air comes in through the glass. During the summer, heat enters the home through the window, making the HVAC system work harder to maintain its set temperature.

If your home could use some upgrades, now might be the time to work on energy-efficient home improvement projects. In February, President Obama signed The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The act contains benefits for adding energy-efficiency products into existing homes. Specifically, tax credits are available for up to 30 percent of the cost, up to $1,500, in 2009 and 2010, for windows, doors, insulation products and systems, roofs, HVAC, non-solar water heaters and biomass stoves.

Replacing existing windows with energy-efficient models isn't cost-effective in terms of energy savings, but insulating existing windows will help lower your heating and cooling costs while also making you eligible for a tax credit.

One product in particular, the Comfortex ComforTrack Plus Energy Saving Sidetrack Insulation System, uses a double honeycomb cellular shade with removable sidetracks to insulate windows. The insulation system seals all of the gaps between the fabric edge and the window frame, preventing heat transfer through the glass.

Consumers purchasing the ComforTrack Plus Insulation System will reduce energy loss up to two-thirds when compared to an uncovered window.

For more information on home improvement projects eligible for tax credits, visit www.energystar.gov To learn more about the ComforTrack Plus Insulation System, visit www.comfortex.com

Shake Up Your Space With Color, Indoors or Out

2009-05-07T09:10:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Economic news got you feeling the blues? A little jolt of color can take care of that. Budget-consciousness doesn't always mean having to abandon your dreams for a more colorful living space. Using a little creativity and materials such as spray paint, you can still enjoy a love affair with color, without a big commitment of time or money.

Do-it-yourselfers choose spray paint because it's fast and easy to apply and leaves a smooth finish with no brush marks. Krylon has introduced a unique 360-degree dial spray tip that makes it even faster and easier to spray in hard-to-reach places without runs or drips. By using spray paint for simple fix-ups, you can quickly and easily make a striking difference around the home and yard.

Brightening architectural details such as shutters, garden gates and light fixtures with a punch of color can increase a home's curb appeal. Indoors, strategic use of color can transform attic treasures and bargain finds ranging from tables and headboards to picture frames and wicker baskets into fresh accent pieces.

"The key color drivers this year are the economy, nature and fashion," says Donna Schroeder, who develops color palettes for the Krylon spray paint brand. "Neutral colors are always popular during economic downturns, but today's more educated consumer loves color and seeks shades that are enchanting and beautiful, honest and natural."

Color has been proven to affect mood. Magical colors infuse energy, counter despair and fulfill a genuine need for art, culture and beauty in life. Examples from Krylon's Indoor/Outdoor color palette include Rich Plum and Jade, Raspberry and Hyacinth -- floral hues that impart a dream-like aesthetic.

"At the same time, the green movement is in everyone's consciousness, so consumers are exploring natural, honest colors and textures," Schroeder says. She points to Pistachio and Pebble as colors that are ideal for refreshing and repurposing the home with soothing, nature-inspired tones.

Once you've introduced a color you love, Schroeder suggests building on it with flower arrangements, pillows, throws and other accessories. For inspiration and home-improvement hints, visit the Krylon Web site at www.krylon.com

Outdoor Rooms Help Expand Homes

2009-04-30T13:06:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - If the economic downturn means a new house isn't realistic right now, consider adding an outdoor room to your home. You can extend your kitchen, expand the family room, create a meditation place -- the possibilities are endless. The best part? There's no need to take out a second mortgage, because you can do it yourself.

"Most do-it-yourselfers will find that a brick patio is less expensive than a comparably sized wood deck -- and there is much less upkeep," said Laura Schwind, a registered landscape architect for Pine Hall Brick, America's largest manufacturer of genuine clay pavers.

To get started, place your outdoor furniture, the grill, kids' toys, and other objects that you will want on the patio in the area of the proposed patio. Outline the area with a garden hose to see how much square footage you will need. You'll also need to choose a pattern, keeping in mind that some patterns require more cuts than others.

To install, dig approximately eight inches down and six inches out beyond the area you will pave. Slope the soil about one-quarter inch per foot to allow for proper drainage.

Next, tamp the soil down with a hand tamper or a vibrating plate compactor.

Put down four inches -- eight inches for driveways -- of crusher run gravel, and compact it well with the tamper or plate compactor. Lay down two lengths of one-inch PVC pipe, parallel to each other and several feet apart. Cover the pipes with concrete sand, which is course and jagged, then use a board across the top of the pipes to screed the sand level.

Remove the pipes, and use a trowel to fill and smooth the voids. Lay the pavers in place. Then, install edge restraints, which can be metal or plastic; a row of finished pavers stood on end and buried to finished height; or troweled concrete that's later covered with backfill.

For more information on do-it-yourself home improvement projects using brick pavers, contact Pine Hall Brick at 1-800-334-8689 or visit www.pinehallbrick.com

Perfect Storm Brewing For Residential Awnings

2009-04-21T14:11:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Could a perfect storm be brewing for residential awnings? Consumer awareness of the dangers of UV exposure has never been higher; everyone would like to save on energy bills; and the incredible popularity of spending time outdoors is reflected in decks, patios and outdoor rooms on millions of American homes.

So, where do awnings fit in? Awnings block the majority of damaging UV rays without blocking the view, and significant energy savings are achieved when awnings prevent heat gain inside the home. Awnings also allow you to enjoy your deck, patio or outdoor room no matter the weather.

"There have been high-performance awning fabrics for many years, but styling and durability have been greatly improved this year," said Hal Hunnicutt, vice president of marketing for Glen Raven Custom Fabrics, the makers of Sunbrella brand awning fabrics.

Glen Raven has introduced a "Next Generation" version of its industry-leading Sunbrella awning fabrics, which provide a 25 percent increase in water repellency with no loss of breathability. The new fabrics are so durable that Glen Raven has doubled the Sunbrella awning fabrics' warranty period from five years to 10.

The Sunbrella awning fabrics line has also received a makeover this season, offering an expanded array of styles to meet the tastes of all consumers.

"Our awning fabrics are closely coordinated with Sunbrella fabrics for cushions and market umbrellas so that homeowners can create outdoor spaces that are as beautiful as they are comfortable," said Gina Wicker, Glen Raven's design and creative director.

While fixed awning frames are the mainstay of residential applications, retractable awnings, which can open and close at the touch of a button, are attracting a new generation of awning aficionados who relish the flexibility.

It is also easier than ever for homeowners to learn all about awnings and locate an awning resource through Web sites such as www.outdoorspaces.com, which includes a nationwide dealer directory, and www.sunbrella.com, which features a broad array of Sunbrella performance fabrics.

Five Green Tips for Stylish Home Decorating

2009-04-07T10:10:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - You don't have to sacrifice great style to get a great, green look in your home. You can use these five simple design tips from the 2009 HGTV Green Home in Port St. Lucie, Fla. to make your living environment more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. HGTV Green Home designer Linda Woodrum's ideas can also help make your green home more visually appealing.

1. Welcome Home. Create a welcoming entrance to your home by setting your foyer apart from the rest of the house with a shot of color. Use a fabric, tile, texture or decorative motif as inspiration, and use low-VOC paints and painter's tape to recreate the design on the wall. You'll get a lot of pow for very little money.

2. Reduce, reuse, recycle. Unique pieces make a room richer and a lot more interesting. Decorating green is about using antiques, repurposed items and salvage materials. Take a look at the 2009 HGTV Green Home for inspiration on how to use everyday items in unexpected and amazing ways.

3. Create a mood in your master bedroom. Capture all that's good about a place or location through your choice of color and décor, but keep it clean and natural with organic and recycled materials. The recycled glass tile in the HGTV Green Home master bedroom and the wall color in the bedroom evoke a retro-South Florida look, yet have a natural, clean feeling worthy of the finest spa.

4. Saturate with color. Using one color throughout a room creates a calm, cozy retreat. The HGTV Green Home sitting room carpet and walls are all the same inviting color. It's easy to recreate this look with low-VOC paint and environmentally friendly carpet -- a perfect example of how green living also means big style.

5. Use durable materials in high traffic areas. Your front and back entrances are subjected to a lot of wear. Using beautiful ceramic tile in both locations is a great way to set them apart from the living areas, yet tile is environmentally friendly and easy to maintain.

For more information on this year's HGTV Green Home Giveaway, visit www.hgtv.com

Protecting Your Investment From Mold

2009-03-24T18:21:00.000-07:00

Tips for Homeowners

(NewsUSA) - In these hard economic times, it has never been more important to protect what for many people is their most significant investment: their home. And one way to do that is to keep mold at bay -- because not only does mold present health concerns, but it also can damage your home.

Areas of your home that are continually wet -- like the insides of walls or attics and basements, often out of view -- will eventually shorten the life of your home and lead to expensive repairs. Research shows that if you keep moisture out of your home, you'll likely avoid mold. In the presence of moisture, mold will grow on virtually any surface -- steel, plastic, even fiberglass.

Fortunately, there's a new source of information to help avoid such problems. The Responsible Solutions to Mold Coalition, funded by USG Corporation, National Gypsum and American Gypsum is an excellent source of information on how to keep your house dry -- from the way it's designed, to the way it's built, to the way it's maintained. RSMC's members, including academic, government and building industry associations, developed the Guiding Principles for Mold and Moisture Control-50 steps that can be taken to build and maintain a house free of mold.

Here are some helpful hints:

- Run bathroom and kitchen vents for an extra 10 minutes after you finish showering or cooking. Also, make sure your vents go outdoors. If they vent into the attic, you're not getting rid of the moisture.

- Make sure the grade around your home slopes away from the foundation. Often, houses will settle as they age, creating a drainage problem. If the ground around your home slopes inward, which may or may not be visible, it provides a pathway for moisture to enter your basement.

- Make sure sprinklers are pointed away from the home. Over time, sprinklers that are directed toward your house will allow thousands of gallons of water to penetrate the walls.

- Take a look at the caulking around doors and windows. If it's cracked or falling apart, water can seep into your walls.

- Replace washing machine hoses every five years. This is the single largest category of water-related claims filed with insurance companies each year.

The Responsible Solutions to Mold Coalition (www.responsiblemoldsolutions.org) provides a wealth of information for homeowners -- whether you're building, remodeling or maintaining your home. Be a "water detective" in your own home. If you see water or dampness, find out where it's coming from -- stop it -- and repair or replace any materials that have been damaged.

Take Green Tips From Hollywood Homes

2009-03-24T09:09:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - When it comes to the green movement, Hollywood has been moving ahead of mainstream America. Take Ed Begley, Jr., a character actor known for roles in "A Mighty Wind" and "Batman Forever." Begley embraced environmentalism back in 1970, even riding his bike to red carpet events.

Today, Begley lends his name to "Begley's Best," a line of all natural, nontoxic household cleaners. He recently published a book about green living, "Living Like Ed: A Guide to Eco-Friendly Life."

When it comes to the green movement, Begley's home is surely where his heart is. The 1936 home now features a wind turbine and 6 kilowatts of solar panels -- Begley pays only $300 a year in electric bills.

Fitting a house with a wind turbine might seem extravagant to most Americans, but that doesn't mean that you need celebrity status to conserve energy and resources at home.

Here are some tips for Americans hoping to live more sustainably:

- Watch your water use. Taking simple steps, like only running your dishwasher or laundry machine when you have full loads, can save thousands of gallons of water each year. Take showers instead of baths, and when you need to replace kitchen or bathroom fixtures, choose high-efficiency appliances. Monitor your water bill for unusually high prices -- they might indicate leaks.

- Consider buying a high-efficiency water heater. Heating water can use up to 25 percent of a home's energy supply. If it's time for a new model, look for one that qualifies for the federal tax credit for energy-efficiency improvements, like A.O. Smith's Vertex model. Begley uses the Vertex in his home to provide all of this home heating and hot water needs.

- Upgrade your lighting. If every American home replaced just one lightbulb with an ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent light (CFL), it would save enough energy to light more than 3 million homes for a year and prevent greenhouse gases equivalent to the emissions of more than 800,000 cars for a year. Better yet, CFLs are inexpensive and easily installed.

Go Green With Recycled Counters and Floors

2009-03-19T12:46:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - The eco-savvy homeowner is always looking for the next great breakthrough in earth-friendly, environmentally safe features to suit their lifestyle. Especially if these new features can add beauty to their home.

So, what is the next ground-breaking home improvement that will have homeowners living in the lap of luxury while committing to save the environment? Try recycled porcelain countertops and floors.

EnviroGLAS has recently released a new terrazzo application used for countertops and floors, called EnviroMode. Terrazzo is an ancient method of creating walkways, floors, patios and panels by exposing marble chips and other fine aggregates on the surface of finished concrete or epoxy resin. The aggregate used in EnviroMode is made of recycled porcelain.

As the forefathers of recycled glass, EnviroGLAS has developed a relationship with Kohler Co. in which they recycle their imperfect, pre-consumer sinks and toilets by crushing them into chips and tumbling them to a smooth surface. The result is beautiful porcelain stone for their EnviroMode products, which in turn creates a harder surface than traditional marble terrazzo.

"I am always looking for companies that are creating new and innovative products from recycled materials," said City of Dallas Recycling Manager Sherlyn McAnally. "The crushed porcelain has a beautiful pearl-like finish and can be used in a versatile array of applications."

With hundreds of epoxy resin colors, the recycled porcelain creates a sustainable housing material that can be crafted to fit any home. It is available for both commercial and residential uses and can even be used for landscaping.

For Long Beach, Miss., EnviroGLAS donated 15,000 pounds of EnviroMode aggregate for the rebuilding efforts of their city park. The resulting efforts of sustainability have earned EnviroGLAS the "2008 Greater DFW Recycling Alliance Award" and the "2008 Contractor's Choice Top Products" award.

For more information on sustainable home improvements, visit www.enviroglasproducts.com

Inspections Ensure Healthy Homes

2009-03-18T11:34:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Homeowners often assume that their homes are healthy -- but indoor spaces can be more heavily polluted than the air outside.

Poor indoor air quality can seriously impact health. Many chemicals, including formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are often found in homes and offices, can contaminate indoor air, leading to allergic reactions or chronic illness in certain individuals.

Poor indoor air quality has been linked to a number of ailments, including cardiovascular stress, asthma, fatigue, headaches, digestive problems, impaired coordination and respiratory disease. Individuals with known conditions, like allergies, respiratory ailments and chemical sensitivities, or people who spend a lot of time indoors, such as children, women, seniors and the disabled, experience elevated risk.

Homeowners want to guarantee that their homes won't hurt their families, and some companies have perceived a need. Environmental Service Professionals, a company that provides Certified Environmental Home Inspections for allergens, mold, radon, home energy tune-ups and other issues, has recently started a new program, USA Healthy Home Warranty (USAHHW). Previously, home inspections could not guarantee that the home would remain healthy after or between inspections. USAHHW aims to create peace of mind even after the inspector leaves.

The USAHHW program provides warranty assurances against defects that occur in the home one year after the inspection. The warranty can even provide up to $100,000 in aggregate coverage limit.

The USAHHW offers homebuyers and homeowners protection against specific intrusions, like mold and moisture, which can affect human health and a home's habitability. Mortgage lenders can also use the inspections to protect the value of their assets.

For more information, visit www.evsp.com

Improve Your Outdoor Décor

2009-03-17T09:12:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Chances are, your deck or patio décor includes a variety of surfaces such as wood, wicker, metal and plastic, all of which may become weathered from summer sun and winter storage. Armed with a few cans of spray paint, you can give your backyard oasis a great new look, quickly and affordably.

When decorating outdoors:

- Use color to unify your space. Selecting a palette of a few colors allows you to unify disparate furniture pieces into a pleasing whole. White is an ever-popular classic that can be paired with almost any accent color to achieve striking good looks.

- Especially in areas filled with bright sunlight, don't be afraid of bold or saturated colors. Use bright, bold colors to infuse a space with energy and whimsy, or consider textured or metallic hues for more subtle sophistication.

- For the brightest, boldest colors, prime the surface or apply a white basecoat. Next, apply the color coat over the white surface.

- Group furniture together to create intimate conversation areas. Use interesting containers to hold plants. Consider lighting for both evening safety and ambiance.

- Always follow the directions on your can of spray paint. Application instructions and dry times, as well as how long you should shake the can and how far away you should hold it from the surface, vary from paint to paint.

There are a number of products available to help with your patio makeover. Krylon's Fusion for Plastic is a one-step, super-bonding spray paint. It can be used on wood, metal, wicker, hard vinyl and a wide range of plastic surfaces. Available in many colors, it now comes with the new EZ Touch 360-degree Dial Spray Tip for more comfortable spray painting with increased coverage per pass, reduced overspray, less chance of runs or drips and greater accuracy.

Rusted metal? No reason to worry. Instead of making a mess scrubbing away rust with a wire brush, you can paint right over it with Krylon Outdoor Spaces Rust Converter. It chemically transforms rust into a waterproof, paintable surface that is protected from future rust formation.

When completely dry, simply coat Outdoor Spaces Rust Converter with any Outdoor Spaces Satin, Metallic, Textured or Hammered Finish to keep outdoor décor looking its very best. These finishes withstand harsh weather, offering superior protection on metal, wood, wicker, drywall, masonry and even pottery.

Use Solar Shades to Save Money and Enhance Your Home

2008-12-25T12:42:00.000-08:00

(NewsUSA) - Large windows make homes feel airy and open -; but windows also let in sun and allow heat transfer, damaging furniture and raising energy bills.

Controlling the way light enters the home can make homes more comfortable and less expensive, not to mention more attractive. The experts at Durasol (www.durasol.com), a 25-year-old business that specializes in retractable awnings, solar screens and stationary awnings, offers these suggestions to common problems:

- Reduce solar glare -; Bright sun can fade furniture and carpets. Consider closing the blinds on one side of the house in the morning, as the sun rises, and on the other side of the house when it sets, to help avoid the brightest rays.

You might want to consider installing interior solar shades. Durasol's DuraShade retractable solar screen systems offer indoor comfort, increased privacy and protection from interior fading. Better yet, they blend in with any home while offering protection against solar glare and heat gain. You can even motorize them, so you can lower the shades in an entire room with the push of a button. Solar screens that are installed and used in Southern- and Western-facing windows can cool the home by as much as 8-16 degrees F, helping to lower energy costs. Unlike drapes, solar screens are see-through -; so you can enjoy the view without letting in glare or heat.

- Reduce heat gain -; If the glaring sun makes rooms too warm, consider installing exterior solar shades. Exterior-mounted shades offer some benefits over interior shades, because they block the heat before it enters the home. In the winter, exterior shades help protect against winter glare from snow and ice.

- Increase outdoor living space. Retractable window and roof awnings help keep the sun from entering your home, and also add shade to outdoor living space. With an awning over a porch or deck, homeowners can make a wonderful outdoor entertaining space. Awnings are more flexible than building a permanent roof over your porch, which permanently blocks light. Durasol awnings allow you to control how and when light enters your home.

Insulation Keeps Heat In, Cold Out

2008-12-23T03:31:00.000-08:00

(NewsUSA) - Heating accounts for 30 to 50 percent of the energy used in the average American home. Unfortunately, many Americans pay for heat only to send warm air billowing out windows, attics, ceilings, floors, doors and garages.

Poorly insulated homes prove more difficult, and more costly, to keep comfortable. But choosing and installing insulation can be a simple, do-it-yourself project that pays for itself.

How does insulation work? Heat naturally moves into cooler areas. When it's colder outside than inside, the heat inside the home tries to move outdoors. Insulation slows down heat flow, so home heating systems stabilize temperatures without using extra energy.

How do you know what insulation to use in your home? The U.S. Department of Energy's Energy Saver Web site, www.energysavers.org, gives these tips to homeowners considering insulation projects:

- Know what factors to consider when choosing installation. The "best" insulation for your home depends on how much insulation you need, the location that needs insulation, and the local availability and price of insulation. Check to see whether an insulation needs professional installation or if it will work in its intended space.

- Choose your insulation based on its R-value. Insulation is rated by R-value, or resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation.

But the R-value doesn't tell the whole story - how and where you install insulation affects its performance. For example, compressed insulation, which happens when you place denser insulation over lighter insulation, won't give you its full R-value. Also, insulation placed between joists, rafters and studs does not slow heat flow through those joists or studs.

- Read the insulation's label before installing the insulation. No matter what kind of insulation you buy, check the product label. The Federal Trade Commission insists that labels include a clearly stated R-value and information about health, safety and fire-hazard issues. Insist that any contractor installing insulation provide the product labels from each package.

- Know how much you need. Manufacturers now make thinner insulation materials with high R-values, but some materials will settle, so you need to install more insulation at the outset.

- Install for efficiency. Insulation must be installed correctly to work properly. Some products are not meant for do-it-yourselfers and should be installed by competent, trained professionals.

For more information, visit www.energysavers.org to find no-cost, and low-cost methods to help save energy and keep you warm.

Mix Modern and Rustic Pieces For a Stylish Feel

2008-12-16T13:50:00.000-08:00

(NewsUSA) - Good home design feels effortless. When inhabitants style rooms to reflect their personalities, rather than the latest design trends, they create thoughtful, comfortable homes. Rather than design "themed" homes, many homeowners blend modern and rustic elements.

But there's an art to eclectic design. Some Americans focus entire rooms on a single, prized possession, while others design more neutral spaces. Either way, mix-and-match types must contrast décor styles to create balanced looks.

Small details change the way homes feel. For example, updating door and cabinetry hardware can immediately inject a room with new style.

"Door hardware has undergone a metamorphosis from merely functional to both architectural and decorative," said Chas Seymour, general manager of Baldwin Hardware, a company that has been manufacturing hardware for more than 60 years. "In addition, we must remember that customers want to know that their home investments, hardware or otherwise, combine a commitment to quality, workmanship and style, with both classic and contemporary cues."

For a modern touch, choose "sleek" and "clean" design elements. Silver and chrome accents help create a streamlined feel. Baldwin Hardware's Minneapolis and Lakeshore collections appeal to modern tastes. The company also offers the Soho entry set, named for the New York neighborhood known for its modern design boutiques, as well as its history with cast iron architecture.

As demand continues to grow for contemporary styling in door hardware, so does demand for what's considered rustic. With that in mind, Baldwin introduced its Baldwin Bronze collection of cast bronze lock, bath and general hardware. Since earliest antiquity, bronze has been an important and revered material with a distinctive look and feel.

For more information from Baldwin Hardware, visit www.baldwinhardware.com

Upgrade Your Lighting With These Simple Tips

2008-12-11T15:01:00.000-08:00

(NewsUSA) - When it comes to home decorating, lighting proves just as important as paint color. Quality lighting allows residents to perform tasks without eyestrain and creates a warm, comfortable feel.

When lighting a room, remember that you will need more than one type of light. You will need to use general lighting, or overall illumination, and task lighting, which helps you perform tasks like reading or cooking without eyestrain. Many homeowners also use accent lighting to spotlight paintings, shelves or other areas of visual interest. Using all three types of light will help homes look more attractive.

The American Lighting Association offers these tips for Americans looking to update their lighting in the different areas of their home:

- Use light to create an attractive living room. To make a focal point, consider using recessed downlight above the fireplace mantel. The light will make stone and brick surfaces look more intricate. Place floorlamps behind arm chairs to provide light for reading or other activities. Highlight paintings with low-voltage, tungsten-halogen picture lights, which shine white light directly on the painting.

- Brighten up your kitchen. A large ceiling light will provide adequate general lighting but might not let you see into cabinets or on your stove range. Add supplemental lighting where you need to perform specific tasks. Track lights over the stove and the sink, for example, will help you see when your onions are browned and when your pots look clean.

- Create an elegant feel in the dining room. Use a chandelier above the dining room table to provide functional light and to highlight any centerpieces.

- Use light to create a calming bedroom. Use wall sconces, chandeliers, fanlights or downlights to create enough light for you to get dressed, then add additional lights near your vanity and in your closet. Consider installing swing-arm wall lamps on either side of your bed. The lights will provide enough illumination for reading but won't take up space on your nightstand.

For more information, visit www.americanlightingassoc.com

Designing the Home of Your Dreams, California-Style

2008-12-04T11:08:00.000-08:00

(NewsUSA) - Each year, many proud homeowners set out to increase the "dream" appeal of their homes - a task that can be made easier and more exciting with inspiration from the annual HGTV Dream Home. The 2009 home, located in beautiful Sonoma, Calif., is full of ideas that can help you amp up the dream quotient of your existing home. Investing time and love in your home can prove to be a rewarding experience whether you're dreaming of a wine-country Victorian home, a Manhattan high-rise or an inviting log cabin. Here are a few tips:

- When choosing a color palette for your home, look at the colors in your area. Do you live in a desert or by the beach? Using color to connect your home to the outside environment will create a more natural feel.

- Identify the strengths of your home, then play them up. If you see natural focal points, make them pop with eye-catching art.

- Consider how you will use your home. Plan spaces where you can have fun with family and friends along with secluded places in which to relax.

- If you have a home office, and clients visit often, consider creating a separate entrance to maintain privacy in your home.

- Think about things you really love and are passionate about and include them in your home. Find a space for what makes you happy.

- Use your rooms. If you never use the formal dining room, turn it into an art studio or office so you can enjoy all of your home.

- Give yourself the luxury of a fabulous master bedroom. This is the ultimate DREAM and you can find inspiration on air and online at HGTV.

For more information on how you can enter for a chance to win the HGTV Dream Home visit HGTV.com/dreamhome.

Linda Woodrum has served as HGTV's Dream Home designer for the past 12 years.

By Linda Woodrum
For NewsUSA

Five Common Carpet Myths Debunked

2008-12-02T10:01:00.000-08:00

(NewsUSA) - Carpeting has been the most popular floor covering in America for decades for good reason -; carpets feel soft, reduce noise and insulate rooms.

But some common misconceptions deter people from buying carpets. Before purchasing flooring, consider the following information from Shaw Floors:

Myth 1: Asthma and allergy sufferers should not have carpet in the home.

Fact: EPA scientists concluded that carpet fibers, in trapping and immobilizing potential allergy-causing particulates, help people with allergies. If allergens are in the carpet, they're not circulating in the indoor air stream. Shaw recommends using a HEPA-filter vacuum to fully remove such particles from the indoor environment.

Myth 2: Carpet is hard to maintain -; it stains and wears out very easily.

Fact: Simple steps can extend the life of your carpet and keep it looking new. Frequent vacuuming removes soil particles before they get below the surface of the pile, where they are far more difficult to remove.

Carpet in a typical household should be thoroughly cleaned every 12 to 18 months. Hot-water extraction systems provide the most effective cleaning. Professional carpet cleaners generally get the best results.

Myth 3: Carpet is outdated and boring.

Fact: Carpets come in patterns ranging from traditional hounds tooth to exotic zebra, and in stylish colors like chocolate or mint green. Many consumers use a mix of carpet, hardwood and tile in their homes.

Myth 4: Carpet emits harmful chemicals that cause health problems.

Fact: Carpet is one of the lowest emitters of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) among household furnishings and building materials. Shaw carpets meet the industry's highest VOC standard, the Carpet & Rug Institute's Green Label Plus program.

Myth 5: Carpet is bad for the environment.

Fact: Floor manufacturers now provide many eco-friendly options for environmentally conscious consumers. Shaw carpets made of Anso or EverTouch nylon can be recycled at Shaw's Evergreen Nylon Recycling Facility, where they are broken down and remade into new carpet fiber. The process helps turn carpet into a renewable product and keeps carpet waste out of landfills. In fact, Shaw has collected 178 million pounds of post-consumer carpet since 2006.

For more information about Shaw's various carpet and hard-surface flooring options or to view the company's online product catalog, please visit www.shawfloors.com

Save Energy, Save Money, Stay Warm

2008-12-02T09:50:00.000-08:00

(NewsUSA) - As temperatures dip lower, families can save money and keep warm by making energy-efficiency improvements to their homes.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has released essential tips for saving energy and money this winter to help Americans best prepare and manage their energy usage in a variety of ways.

According to DOE, on average, energy-efficient improvements reduce heating bills by 32 percent, estimating a threefold return on money invested. DOE offers these tips to help families cut their energy consumption this winter:

- Seal and insulate your home. Many insulating projects are inexpensive and easy enough for the average homeowner to complete. Filling air furnace leaks, adding more insulation and sealing off exposed ducts can sharply reduce heating and cooling bills.

- Perform routine maintenance. Replace your home's air filter every month. Hire a contractor to tune-up your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) unit once a year. Regular maintenance will reduce immediate costs and help units last longer.

- Install a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat will keep your home at a lower temperature when you are not home, helping to reduce your energy bills.

- Conserve hot water. Air-dry dishes instead of running your dishwasher's heat cycle, take short showers instead of baths and wash only full loads of dishes and clothes. Saving water also saves money on energy used to heat it. Turn down the thermostat on your water heater to 120 degrees F.

- Look for ENERGY STAR appliances. DOE and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) created the ENERGY STAR program, which evaluates buildings and home products for energy efficiency. ENERGY STAR products meet strict guidelines and can help save money and energy. If every homeowner installed just five ENERGY STAR lightbulbs, America would save $8 billion a year in energy costs.

- Watch your electronics. Turn off computers and monitors when you're not using them. Plug TVs and DVDs into power strips, then turn off the power strips when home electronics are not in use.

- Drive sensibly. Aggressive driving wastes gasoline. Using overdrive gears and cruise control are easy ways to save gas. Go to www.fueleconomy.gov for more gas-saving tips.

For more tips from the Department of Energy, visit the Web site www.energysavers.gov

Foreclosures Open Up New Market

2008-11-25T17:06:00.000-08:00

(NewsUSA) - To some, the current real estate market looks dismal. A weak labor market, rising mortgage rates and high energy prices have caused many American homeowners to lose their properties. To others, the real estate markets looks ripe for investment.

Deer Park Development Corporation, a company with over 30 years of experience in the real estate market, has developed a new approach for investors hoping to purchase and resell foreclosed properties for profit. Foreclosed houses sell at lower prices, helping investors buy properties with less money upfront. In the past, housing prices reflected overinflation -; as the market evens out, the mortgage crisis might actually help stabilize home prices.

Marty O'Malley, CEO of Deer Park Development Corporation, noted that the current real estate market represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the astute buyer. "With one in every 360 homes in foreclosure nationwide, the opportunity to buy distressed property at significant discounts to their original appraisals is extensive," said O'Malley. "In Clark County, Nev., one in every eighty homes is in foreclosure, and on top of those statistics, one in every two homes is underwater, meaning that it's not worth the amount of money owed on it."

With this amount of inventory on the market, there are situations out there that present themselves as profitable ventures. Not all of the foreclosures are money-making deals, but with experience, professional investors know when and what to buy, so they can make successful ventures.

Being an individual investor in the real estate market can be a dangerous proposition for the inexperienced. But investors, in tying themselves to a group of experienced real estate players, can use experts' hard-earned knowledge to turn a profit in the down real estate market.

"Allowing individual investors to participate in ownership through direct partnership creates a risk-free vehicle for foreclosure players to work with," said O'Malley,

For additional information, visit Deer Park Development Corporation's Web site at deerparkdevelopmentcorp.com or contact Capital Group Advisors at 954-297-0706.

Is Your Home Making You Sick?

2008-11-13T10:57:00.000-08:00

(NewsUSA) - Americans tend to view their homes as safe havens. What few people realize is that the air in their home can be more polluted than outdoor air, leading to health problems.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, people spend almost 90 percent of their time indoors. Due to extended exposure, indoor pollution might cause more health problems than outdoor pollution.

What causes indoor pollution? Common, synthetic materials, like paints, plastics and household cleaners, all leak chemical emissions. Sensitive people can react to anything from wax to furniture polish. Building materials, outdoor pollution, dust and other substances can create allergy symptoms.

Mold, one leading cause of indoor allergies, can grow inside and outside the home in any household component. Once it develops, mold proves impossible to completely remove, making it an especially serious threat. Mold can grow wherever water flows. Water intrusion can lead to mold growth within 24 hours.

The Mayo Clinic estimated that over 40 million Americans suffered from chronic sinus infections and that 96 percent of those cases were caused by molds. According to the Centers for Disease Control, indoor allergens can lead to infections and respiratory problems.

A Certified Environmental Home Inspector (CEHI) from Environmental Safeguard Professionals (www.espusa.net), a company that performs EcoCheck Inspection to address environmental issues in residential buildings, asks Americans to look for the following signs of poor indoor air health:

- Have you had problems with floods or leaks? Even the smallest damp area allows mold to grow. Mold can also hide in ceilings, walls and attics.

- Have you or any of your family members suffered from unexplained respiratory problems, chronic headaches, coughing or congestion?

- Is your home well ventilated? Poor ventilation helps mold grow. To prevent mold growth, keep air moving and humidity levels between 40 and 60 percent.

If you suspect mold, call a professional to inspect your home. A CEHI can identify the types of mold in your home and determine the best way to remove it.

For more information, visit www.espusa.net

What To Know About Window Replacement

2008-10-31T08:36:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Replacing the windows in your home is a great way to increase windows' energy efficiency and overall ease of use. But how should you choose the best replacement windows? Use these tips to determine the best replacement window for you:

- Think Green. Replacing your windows can increase your home's energy efficiency by up to 70 percent. Today's modern double-paned windows can eliminate the need for storm windows.

- Look for Strong Materials. Replacement windows should be low-maintenance and durable, so they will look good over time. Consider getting wood-clad windows with extruded aluminum cladding. Exterior cladding does not need to be scraped or painted.

- Think About Aesthetics. Whether you are replacing your windows to have a whole new look or want to replicate the look of historic wooden windows, it is important to choose from a range of options.

Replacement windows, such as the Ultimate Replacement Casement from Marvin Windows and Doors, use patented hardware systems and have unique wash modes that allow you to wash the exterior of the window from the inside of your home.

- Choose the Right Supplier. With so many window manufacturers in the marketplace, how do you know whom to trust? Choose a window manufacturer who is well-established and has an excellent reputation. Selecting high-quality windows won't pay off unless qualified people install them.

To learn more about replacing your windows, please visit www.MarvinCasement.com or call (888) 537-8268.

Lou Manfredini is a national home improvement expert and regular contributor to NBC's Today Show and host of the television show HouseSmarts.

Ways To Reduce Your Electric Use And Save Money From Utility Bills

2008-10-24T05:19:00.000-07:00

Do you feel that nervous feeling in your stomach just before opening that power use bill? It is no surprise gas continues to go up in price, but were you aware that electric prices are going up too?

Reduce the amount of energy - 02:17 min.

This is not an article about gas vs electric, most homes need and use both. You obviously can not just stop your electric use or your power use. But there are definitely simple ways to reduce the electrical use around the house.

The first step in reducing any power use or electric use is simply awareness. Most people take for granted everything in their household and are not really aware of their power use or electric use at all. Now that you can make yourself aware, you start to see things you can do to reduce the power use.

Next, start limiting your electrical use. If you are not in a room, then turn off every non-essential electric use device that you can. Sounds like common sense, right? Again, the whole awareness thing. How many times have you left the light on in a room to go to do something in another room? How many times is it that you get caught up in what you are doing and have left the empty room light on for several minutes or even hours?

That is just the lights! Several people have multiple televisions in different parts of the house today. But really, when was the last time you watched that TV in the bedroom, the spare bedroom, or the basement. Even though the TVs are turned off, they are still drawing electricity constantly to keep their capacitors full so you will get an instant screen when you turn it on. Is that really worth the electric use the TV uses if you only turn it on a handful of times a year? It may take a little more time, but would it be that much effort to just unplug it and plug it in when you want to watch it? You would not believe the electrical use you could save by just doing this.

Computer monitors count too. Many families have multiple computers, but never use that one in the family room. If a computer is not used daily, unplug it. There is not a need to keep that power use draw on your electric bill.

Do you have a cell phone charger or other battery type charges somewhere in the house that you just keep plugged in? I know I used to plug my phone in over night every night. It only took a little behavior change for me to charge it at the office instead. Chances are I am going to sit in front of a work computer for an hour or more, that is usually all the time it takes to charge a cell phone. Then your company pays for the electric use not you and your home bill.

There are also non use items like VCRs, DVD players, stereos, and other items probably being current energy suckers and they are not even being utilized.Take a tour around your house with your new awareness. See if you can not find things that probably do not need to be plugged and drawing electirc use all year long.

Another big difference can be made in electric use by changing all of your incandescent light bulbs to fluorescent light bulbs. Even better are the newly designed compact fluorescent light bulbs known also as CFLs. They give the light of 75 watt light bulb while only drawing 13 watts to do it.

There is a slight disadvantage. The CFLs are not instant bright light. They turn on instantly, but it may take a few moments before it is putting out the maximum light. But it is a small price to pay for the return on the electric use. Besides, you may not know this, but all incandescent lights bulbs will stop being made in 2009. So you might as well get use to using CFLs now and harvest the savings.

You can save power use and money when you have to purchase new appliances. When it comes time to replace that refrigerator, washer, dryer, stove, water heater, or whatever, make sure that your next replacement is a power conserving appliance. Most are energy star compliant. But even if the non energy star compliant appliance is cheaper, it is only temporary compared to the amount of electric use it is going to charge you vs the energy star compliant one. You may save a hundred dollars at purchase, but in the long run you are going to pay hundreds of dollars more from its power use.

Now you are armed with some real use knowledge. Really take the time to do an awareness tour around your house. I bet you will be surprised at the things you find to be able to reduce your power use.

About the Author: Ian Westynn. Protect your family from the high cost of home energy use! Save time and money with the ultimate step-by-step guide to energy independence! Stop the grasp that foreign energy companies have on you - http://enchantedtrader.com/myenergy

More on energy savings.

Bamboo blinds are gaining popularity

2008-10-21T14:30:00.000-07:00

People are looking for ways to find products made of natural materials, even when it comes to interior decorating. Bamboo blinds are gaining popularity for good reason. These items are beautiful, durable and natural. You can find many different sizes and styles in this type of window treatment. Once you begin your search, you’ll understand why bamboo blinds are all the rage.

Production of Bamboo Blinds - 01:01 min.

Many may think about this option and immediately turn away because they want something with color. Don’t think that choosing bamboo blinds means that you are choosing dull, lifeless color for your interior design plan. The neutral tones in bamboo blinds work wonderfully in all different color schemes.

One thing to remember is that the bamboo blinds are naturally green but they fade into a natural beige color as they dry. If you order a product that looks a little too green give it time to dry out and you will see the green shade fade into the beautiful neutral tones we all love so much.

Keep in mind that bamboo blinds are natural and most manufacturers do not alter the colors inherit to the product. This makes these window treatments especially appealing because they serve to bring some of the outdoors inside. You just can’t go wrong with this look.

What about size? Surprisingly, bamboo blinds come in a whole spectrum of sizes that are suitable for just about any window. It is important to note that this product will lengthen a little bit over time. This is a normal occurrence, especially during hot months. People who live in climates that experience cold winters may notice that the blinds shrink a little but the change is insignificant.

The material’s ability to grow and move can serve as a great benefit. Bamboo blinds can be stretched to a preferred length. The process takes a little time but it works really well. All it takes is a few minutes of your time and you can create the perfect fit for your window space.

Of course, you do want to try to get the best fit possible when you order. All you need to do is measure your space. If you don’t find bamboo blinds that fit the area you can opt for custom made blinds instead. It is wise to ask for samples when taking this approach. This will give you a good idea of how the custom made bamboo blinds will look.

Don’t forget that you are not limited to a certain design. There are many different styles to consider in bamboo blinds. They make wonderful additions to a home’s interior design scheme.

Concrete Providing Foundation For Safe, Healthy Families

2008-10-21T12:06:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Home safety is a major concern for many Americans. But safety should mean more than teaching the kids to stop, drop and roll and double-checking the stove before leaving the house. Americans who are building, or looking to buy, a new home can implement safety from the start by considering the construction of the foundation.

When it comes to safety, building materials matter. Americans should consider the area in which they live before choosing a construction material. For example, couples living in hurricane- or flood-prone areas shouldn't build wooden homes, which can easily suffer moisture damage.

Concrete Network TV - 05:36 min.

Concrete masonry construction has been proven to be a safe, sturdy building material no matter the region. Unlike wood, concrete masonry is water-, wind- and fire-resistant. Concrete masonry bricks do not succumb to insect infestations, like termites. In areas often afflicted by earthquakes, builders can create flexibility within concrete foundations, so they do not shatter when the earth moves.

Concrete masonry also lessens indoor pollution, a major concern in many areas. Paints can emit harmful chemicals, but concrete bricks do not need to be painted. Concrete masonry does not absorb moisture in the air, which can lead to mold growth in other building materials. Mold is a major indoor air pollutant and irritant -; eliminating mold can lead to improved lung health in a home's residents.

Americans living in concrete masonry homes might also enjoy improved economic well-being. Concrete masonry helps control indoor temperatures, keeping homes cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. In many areas, concrete masonry walls do not require additional insulation, saving homeowners money and reducing household dust.

Concrete masonry also dampens sound, making for a more peaceful indoor environment in urban areas.

For more information about building with concrete masonry, visit the Web site of the National Concrete Masonry Association at www.ncma.org

Bedroom decoration

2008-10-19T06:57:00.000-07:00

Creating a comforting design for the bedroom - 03:26 min.

Most of us can't afford to have a professional decorator design new rooms every time we tire of the décor. Usually, it's not the furniture that we tire of, but what is on and around our carefully chosen furniture.

It's usually accent pieces, drapes, or simply the color of the walls that lose their freshness, causing us to get bored with the whole room and have an itch to redecorate. Here's an idea which is simple, inexpensive and makes that room's appeal last much longer. This applies to any room, but has particular usefulness as a bedroom decorating idea.

Our bedrooms are the private rooms in our homes, and we spend quiet times, just waking up and sipping coffee, reading or talking to our spouse. We come to associate relaxing feelings with the bedroom. When we want to relax and enjoy kicking back, we don't want to look around and say, “Oh, I can't stand this bedspread any more!” We want our bedroom to be inviting, not boring.

You might think that bedroom decorating ideas come with a premium price tag, requiring a complete makeover to freshen the look. The truth is, bedroom decorating ideas can be as simple as a change of throw pillows and some new lamp shades. A new set of curtains can change the whole mood of the bedroom.

These bedroom decorating ideas require that you start with squinting your eyes and looking around the room. Really! Squint your eyes slightly and cast your gaze around the room. Take different vantage points. Lie on the bed. Stand in the doorway. What's the first thing that catches your critical eye? Is it that old picture you're fond of, but tired of looking at? Your bedspread is pretty, but you've had it for years. In other words, find what weighs your eye down. There may be several things, but chances are, it's not the furniture.

You love that picture, but it's been hanging there so long it's become part of the wall. Relocate the picture to another room where it once again becomes a surprise to your eyes.

If your bedspread is the offender, it's time to pack it away for guest bedding and buy a new one. Now imagine. What color or fabric would please you in it's place? “Aha!” you say. “I want a deep blue velvet bedspread, and now that I think of it, some ivory lace curtains would be luxurious.”

You're getting the gist of these types of bedroom decorating ideas now. Restrain yourself, as it's easy to get carried away. These bedroom decorating ideas succeed when you aim for simplicity. Maybe a simple coat of paint or stained wooden louvers replacing curtains are all you need. Your beige lampshades might be changed for hand painted art deco ones for an entirely different look in the room in which you love to relax.

For less than $100 plus a vase of fresh flowers, you can have a new dream bedroom.

Decorating ideas

2008-10-18T07:41:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I was packing my hand me down items to move into my first small apartment that I was sharing with my girlfriend. Today I am helping my daughter pack her things to move to her first apartment. That’s the way is seems. I do not know what happened to the twenty-four years in between the two events but they are gone. My daughter is so excited about her first job and her first real apartment. She lived on campus for her first three years of college and then shared a house with several other girls her last year, but the house was furnished so this is her first chance to decorate her own space.

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The apartment she was able to afford is a small one bedroom with a balcony. The bathroom was next to the bedroom and a nice size. The kitchen was the standard apartment U-shaped kitchen with appliances on one side and counter space on the other with cabinets lining the wall space. Two people could cook in it. The counter space could be used as a breakfast bar and had room for two stools. This counter was adjacent to the small dining area that had the patio doors that lead out to the balcony. She was on the second floor and her balcony overlooked the side of the building, which was a grassy area with a small flower garden. The living room was nice size however it was long and narrow. My daughter wanted me to help her with decorating ideas for a living room that was so narrow. One end of the space had a gas fireplace the other end was a blank wall there were two large windows on the long wall. It was hard to think of decorating ideas for a living room that did not have any furniture in it. She had saved enough money from her summer job to buy some furniture. Her father and I told her that she could have the bedroom furniture from her room at our house because we were going to convert it to a home office space. So she needed to find a small dining room set and living room furniture.

I suggested that we start at a second hand store that I have shopped at through the years to see if we could find a table and chairs as well as lamp stands and coffee table for the living room. This would give her more money to spend for decorating ideas for a living room space that was going to be a challenge. We found a great deal on the table and chairs; we also found two chairs upholstered chairs that were in very good shape. I suggested she buy them to make a grouping by the fireplace and then have a television watching area in the other part of the living room. This turned out to be great decorating ideas for a living room shaped like hers. She loves her space and the feeling of independence that it gives her.

Hillsborough river houses

2008-10-18T06:13:00.000-07:00

Some houses from Hillsborough river, Tampa, FL.

Hillsborough River Cam

Small bathroom remodeling

2008-10-17T15:07:00.000-07:00

Bathroom Remodeling - 00:53 min.

Are you a home owner? If you are you know that there seems to be something to do always to keep things looking nice. We have found that as soon as you start replacing some things in the house you have to keep going because the new things make other pieces look worn and old. It seems to be an unending cycle. But for us it beat the alternative of renting. We love the equity that we are building up in our home.

We have done an extensive amount of what I call face lifting in the rooms of our home. Our home is over a hundred years old and has had several stages of remodeling through the years. When we moved in the cabinets in the kitchen area as well as the woodwork were stained a dark walnut color. The kitchen and dining room walls had wall paper on them. Our upstairs loft room had dark wallpaper on a portion of the loft and the same dark walnut stain on the paneling in the other part. Over the first year of being in the house we stripped the wallpaper, painted the cabinets in the kitchen as well as the woodwork and wainscoting in the dining area.

We re-painted the living room walls and the guest rooms and we then did the entire loft, stripping the paper, preparing and painting the paneling and replacing the dark carpets. The house looked great and we were tired of the entire process. We did not have enough energy to complete the small bathroom remodeling. This bathroom is located off the kitchen and is the bath that is used by guests. It is the only room in the house that still has wallpaper and the old light fixtures. It needs updating but the thought of the small bathroom remodeling is too overwhelming for us to begin.

We know that when we do begin with the small bathroom remodeling we will need to remove the existing vanity as well as the lighting. Taking the wall paper off is going to be a challenge because in a small test area I tried peeling it back to see what type of walls are in the bath. The previous owner put the wallpaper directly on the sheetrock. This means that we are going to have to have a sheet rock person come in and repair the pieces that are going to come off with the wallpaper. We know this is going to happen because that was our experience in the dining area. We know that we need to get to this smallest room in the house, we are just trying to get up the energy to do it.

Ceiling lighting

2008-10-16T19:24:00.000-07:00

Eternaleds LED Light Bulbs - 03:27 min.

Lighting a room can be hard if you don’t know what you are doing. There are many different types of lighting ideas out there, and some people simply go with a single light in the center of the ceiling because they don’t want to bother, or they aren’t aware of other options. Lamps can give a different look, but there are many different types of ceiling lights that many fall in love with once they have them installed in their home. This is because they can do great things with a room that was once just blah.

Ceiling lights come in many different varieties. Some of the most popular are track lights. These have a track, as you may have guessed, and that track can be put anywhere on the ceiling. There are lights that go on this track that can be moved and focused on different parts of the room. This type of ceiling lights allows a homeowner to have light where it is needed the most, and the flexibility to change them around when needed. They can even be used to highlight great art in a room, or to build a focal point.

There are other types of great ceiling lights as well. These are often recessed right into the ceiling and can also be focused on any point in the room. These often are not moveable like track lighting, but can be just as wonderful if you have enough in the room. They tend to be a bit less in intensity, but that is a great look in many rooms. If you have a lot of glass and metal in your décor, these lights will highlight those things in a very attractive way. These, like track lights, can also be used to highlight other things in the room that you may want guests to notice when they walk into your home or a certain room.

No matter what type of ceiling lights you may want to try, you should always shop around for the best price. You can always get great deals in home improvement stores, but don’t forget to look around online to see what you can find. Deal with sites that have a good reputation, and make sure they use secure methods of shipping for your ceiling lights don’t arrive broken and unusable. Most are good at this though, as it is what they do every day. You may save money on shipping if you buy a few things and have them shipped together.

Bathroom tiles

2008-10-16T09:51:00.000-07:00

Bathroom Tile Ideas - 03:04 min.

It is always a good idea to think about what goes on in your bathroom before you remodel it. One of the most important things to remember is that you use a lot of water, and it might go everywhere, especially if you have kids. This is why tiles are very popular for the bathroom. They are water resistant, and they are easy to clean and install. Bathroom tiles do not have to be boring, but they are an exceptionally good idea to protect your walls and floors from water damage.

You can go with the basic white bathroom tiles if you wish, and these can be a great look. Some like to have an all white bathroom, and that can look fresh and clean. Many more, however, love to have some color. You can get your bathroom tiles in many colors, or you can save the color for your shower curtains, window curtains, towels, and wash clothes. There are endless ways to add color, so it’s quite alright to get white tiles if that is what you want to have.

Installing your bathroom tiles can be something you do yourself, though some prefer to have someone else do it for them. If you don’t think you are very handy, or you simply don’t have the time to do it on your own, there are many qualified people who can do the job for you, and they can usually do it very quickly. When it comes to laying tile, you may have to cut some to get the room to look right, and many fear doing this wrong. However, if you want to do it on your own, find somewhere to learn. It won’t be that hard if you have instruction.

When choosing bathroom tiles, remember that you are making an investment that will last a long time. Tiles are generally durable, and you won’t have to worry about replacing them. That makes them a bargain. They are also easier to clean, even for those who might have hard water. Concentrate on finding the right colors and patterns, and choose something you know you can live with for years to come. Some like to remodel quite often, but most can’t afford to do so. That is why choosing something you love is important, but following trends might not be. Trends will come and go, but your bathroom will remain the same.

Bathroom remodeling ideas

2008-10-15T18:09:00.000-07:00

I love the idea of remodeling rooms in my home, but when it comes to choosing things, I either can’t afford what I like, or I can’t decide what I like in the first place. I guess I was not blessed with the home design gene, and I often have to get my bathroom remodeling ideas from other places, and then I have to make them my own. Perhaps that is what most people do, I’m not really sure. I do know that I have a friend who can’t seem to match his pants and shirt, yet he comes up with the most beautiful bathrooms in the homes that he builds. I just don’t get it.

Perhaps the best place to find bathroom remodeling ideas is to have a look around. Look at other bathrooms in magazines, watch home improvement shows on television, and even look at bathrooms of friends and families that you love. You probably don’t want to copy someone, but you can find things you like in many different places and pull them together into your own bathroom remodeling ideas. It doesn’t even have to be about replacing major parts of the bathroom. It can be about paint, wallpaper, and color schemes as well.

You can also find bathroom remodeling ideas by looking at displays in different stores. I am always amazed by what I see, but most of what I like I can not afford. I guess my tastes run much higher than what is in my checking account, but that’s okay. Perhaps someday I can get what I love. Until then, I am partially content to dream about it. I can afford to change colors and paper, which I tend to do a lot. My husband often jokes that he never knows what the house will look like when he comes home on any given day.

If you are like me, and you know you can’t afford a remodel at the moment, but you still want to think about it, you can easily find ways to save your bathroom remodeling ideas for the future. If you find something that you like, tear it out of the magazine or even take a pictures of it. Save it in a scrapbook for later.

When the time comes for you to use your bathroom remodeling ideas, you can then look back to see what you liked, decide what to use, and then you will have all you need to have the bathroom you have always dreamed of having.

Bathroom Remodeling - 02:53 min.

Can a Brick Do the Trick?

2008-10-14T14:39:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - When it comes to water conservation, most people think of shorter showers or more efficient appliances, but few have ever imagined a brick could do the trick.

Newer clay brick pavers allow rainwater to soak back into the ground gradually through their permeable surface, which creates a natural filtering process that decreases storm water runoff and flooding by allowing water to dissipate into the watershed.

Runoff is a major environmental concern because water that is not able to soak back into the ground finds its way to bodies of water such as streams, lakes and rivers and carries with it pollutants such as fertilizers, wastes and other chemicals. As a result, building materials that reduce runoff are integral to both water conservation and its cleanliness.

Used to build driveways and parking lots, RainPave and StormPave from Pine Hall Brick save water, reduce pollution and work great in cities like Atlanta, where local ordinances limit the amount of area allowed to be impervious to water infiltration. In fact, these pavers have even been used to replace retention ponds, which translates to more available land.

For more information, visit Pine Hall Brick at www.PineHallBrick.com or call 800-334-8689.

Finding electric fireplaces online

2008-10-14T08:54:00.000-07:00

If you're looking to buy a new electric fireplace suite then don't rule out online options - it is possible to find some good quality electric fireplaces on the internet. The key to success is to embrace the differences involved in shopping this way.

The most obvious difference between finding electric fires online and looking to visit a traditional showroom is that you can't physically see the appliance. This makes it vital to do your homework before making a purchase.

In particular, you'll need to make sure that any fire that you choose will actually fit in the room where you're intending to put it. This may sound obvious but it's something that a lot of people seem to overlook.

You should start by measuring the space that you have available in the room where you will be putting the fire. Consider the ideal dimensions of the appliance that you're looking for and also think about how it will be fixed in place.

Will you, for example, be looking to install your new fire suite in the position of an existing fireplace? If so, you'll need to be pretty certain of the dimensions of your existing fireplace, plus those of the fire that you are intending to install.

A major advantage of an electric appliance is the fact that you don't actually need a fireplace already in place before installing one. This means that you might be thinking of simply placing your new fire against an existing, flat interior wall.

This is perfectly feasible with most designs but take care to ensure that you know how much space is available where you are wishing to place it. Also check that you are looking at a product that will actually fit in the way that you are intending to have it installed.

Failure to plan properly can reveal some hidden costs at a later stage. The last thing that you'll want to do will be to having to pay money to electricians or builders to sort out a problem that could have been overcome with a bit of planning.

Where should you look for an electric fireplace online? It makes sense to look for a reputable company. You can find plenty of retailers by doing a simple Google search but always take care to investigate any reviews that may be available.

Plan well and make your purchase from a reputable store online. If you do so, you should be able to find an electric fireplace at a great price.

About the Author: Keith Barrett. More on Electric Fire Suites (UK) is available online, as discussed by Keith Barrett.

Magic Flame Electric Fireplaces (USA) - 03:09 min.

3 Quick Tips On Fireplace Glass Doors

2008-10-14T08:39:00.000-07:00

If you are looking into getting fireplace glass doors, you will have to do some preparing and some reading. You can make your plain looking fireplace look a lot nicer by installing fireplace glass doors. They will have to be attached to the stone masonry or bricks and then fitted to the firebox opening. Newer fireplaces work best for installing glass doors. If your bricks are old, they might not be able to withstand the drilling and povide enough anchor support.

Minuteman Glass Doors - 02:24 min.

Once installed, keeping glass doors clean is also important. This can be very difficult due to soot from the fire and sparks. Dirty fireplace doors do not compliment a room very nicely. Ammonia works very well on these types of doors. Regular glass cleaning products like Windex do not seem to work as well as plain ammonia.

Be sure to wear a face mask or make sure the room is ventilated properly when using ammonia. Eye protection is also important to wear. And of course, as you may already know, you cannot mix ammonia with any other cleaner because a toxic gas is created and you can breathe in very harmful toxins.

If you are looking for very good quality fireplace glass doors, you can be prepared to spend at least two hundred and fifty bucks. Before you go shopping for the doors, take proper measurements of your fireplace. A lot of big home supply store chains should carry a nice inventory of these fireplace doors. Another idea are the fireplace specialty stores. They can be difficult to locate, but it doesn't hurt to run a Google search on one and be sure to include your home town in the search.

Finally, the Internet is also a great place to find fireplace glass doors, especially if you are having a hard time finding them locally. There are many websites offering all types and sizes for every style of fireplace.

About the Author: Terry Edwards. You can find more about Fireplace Glass Doors as well as much more information on everything to do with fireplaces at www.FireplacesA-Z.com

Get Decorative Wall Mirrors On An Online Auction

2008-10-13T07:51:00.000-07:00

If you have ceaselessly wanted to get familiar with decorative wall mirrors, then prepare yourself because we have all the information you can handle. For a very long time, mirrors have been used in many rooms of the home as a decorative accent. They have function in the home in bathrooms and bedrooms, as you probably know, but most have at least one more somewhere in their home that is for looks only. You can find decorative wall mirrors to hang in your home, and you can also make them on your own. A plain mirror can be great in some rooms, and can even give the illusion of more space, but you don't have to leave them plain if you don't wish to do so. Decorative wall mirrors are sold just about anywhere.

Decorative 36 Hanging Round Wall Mirror - 02:34 min.

You can even find them online, but be sure the company from which you are buying as a very good plan for shipping, and be sure to get insurance on such a purchase. This type of home decor item has a high chance of breaking while en route to your home. Most know exactly how to pack them, but when buying from eBay, for example, the seller may be a bit less knowledgeable about how to pack and ship something like decorative wall mirrors and other glass items they may be selling.

If you liked the first section of this article, stay tuned because we have more to follow in the next section! In order to make your own decorative wall mirrors, you can think of your crafting ability. If you are very good with crafts, you can do almost anything you want. You may find stencils that you love that can be painted on the mirrors with colors that match your room. You may also want to find things that go with a theme, if you have one, that you can glue securely around the edge to make decorative wall mirrors. Things like seashells, small colored stones, or even twigs are things that can look good and a lot of fun at the same time.

If you aren't good with your hands, you can do some easier things to make your decorative wall mirrors. It might be something as simple as going out and finding a frame that would fit around the mirror that you have chosen. In some places, you can get the frames made in the size you want, or you can simply have your existing mirror cut to size. What you want to do is up to you and how you want your home to look. If you seem stuck, look in the homes of friends and family to see what they have in the way of mirror decorations for ideas you can steal for your own. Try and Copy/Paste a keyword from the title of this educational article about decorative wall mirrors on your preferred search engine and you are sure to find a wealth of knowledge.

About the Author: Johnny Sogaard. The author of this article Johnny aka Gnubas is the owner of gardenandhouse.info, which gives you handy information about Collage Picture Frames Are Very Decorative and Kitchen Appliances.

Indoor Hot Tub spas

2008-10-12T10:47:00.000-07:00

A hot tub spa can be an effective medium to get rid of the tiredness from a hard day's work. You can get complete relaxation and feel rejuvenated again after a session in a hot tub spa. As fixed-based hot spas, there are portable varieties that are easy to be placed indoor in times of need. Some of the reasons because of which people prefer installing portable hot tubs are mentioned below.

Easy to install - ready to serve round the year

Indoor hot tubs can be used all round the year, irrespective of the climatic condition. They are easy to be easily installed and come with solutions to counter privacy issues attached with outdoor tubs.

With an indoor tub, nothing can hinder you to enjoy your discrete moments of relaxation. Also, if you like to party or organize get-togethers, having a good indoor tub can give you enough space and medium to celebrate the event in style. Invite friends, family and guests and make them feel special while sitting neck-deep inside the tub. Indoor hot tubs major favorite amongst city dwellers because the installation require less space and is designed to work inside a room environment too.

A house + indoor spa - 04:49 min.

Check for an authenticated tub manufacturer and fit your tub with certified products only.

Things to Keep in Mind:

Like everything else, use of an indoor tub can be tricky sometime. However, you can eliminate problems by paying a little extra attention. All you need is to decide the perfect place with enough lighting to set up your tub. Make sure, the area that you have home for you tub is free from any kind of moisture, weight, and heat.

It is mainly because moisture and heat may cause damage to the lining or built material of the tub. Put some extra ventilation for passing the air to keep your tub dry and moth free.

Take adequate measures and enjoy a healthy and rejuvenating dip every time…time after time!

About the Author: Anirban Bhattacharya. Myself author of Spasearch magazine www.spasearch.org - a hot tub planning guide provides information on hot tubs, portable hot tub, hot tub spa, exercise pool, small hot tub, indoor hot tub, outdoor hot tub.

Cabinetry Options for Your Kitchen

2008-10-11T06:35:00.000-07:00

The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in the home, because this is where meals are prepared. A great deal of family bonding happens over meal preparation. Most families would like to have a food preparation area in which the family feels comfortable together.

Old and damaged furniture can really affect the look of a kitchen. Cabinets can define the look of the room, because they take up a large space, as compared to all other appliances. They also require a lot of money to install. If you're thinking of installing a new set of cabinets in your kitchen, make sure you investigate all your options and find a way of getting that perfect kitchen without spending too much.

If you are unhappy with your cabinets, you can choose to give them a face lift. You may want to extend the lifespan of the existing fittings and save some money, especially if your cabinets are structurally solid. If you just want to update their look, you can get them refinished or refaced to make them look new.

Refinishing is usually not an option with metal fittings or cabinets that are not strong. It is also not an option if you plan to move your fittings elsewhere in the room. Others opt to paint and stain their furniture to create a different look. If you change the look of your room in any way, you should hire someone who has experience updating furniture. With a professional, the process should not take more than a few days.

You may choose to remodel your kitchen entirely if the fittings are damaged, failing or outdated. If you choose to do so, do your homework to make sure that you get the perfect set to match the interiors of your kitchen. You will have to decide the design, material and finish. Remember that if you are replacing your old furniture, you will not be able to use the room for a while, so plan accordingly.

If you are installing custom-made furniture, it may take a while because each cabinet is made to order. Homeowners can choose between pre-made or custom kitchen cabinets which can be a bit more expensive, but can be more attractive. You can get many of these pre made options at hardware stores and although they can be a bit more affordable, they have a more standard look. Regardless, if you plan correctly you can find nice ones among either custom made or pre made options.

When remodelling your kitchen or home, you definitely want to consider working with a professional contractor, who can help you plan your room depending on your budget. You may want to go to the local home improvement store to ask if there are employees who install cabinets.

You could also consult your friends, family or neighbors to see if they know anyone they would recommend who knows how to install cabinets. You especially want to bring in a professional to modify the look of your kitchen, if you are not doing a complete custom installation.

Remodeling your kitchen does not have to strain your budget. If you plan correctly and hire a good contractor, you can have your dream design, whether you are giving your existing cabinets a face lift or purchasing new ones.

About the Author: Andrew Stratton. Naples kitchen remodeling company, Eurotech Cabinetry is known for their unique, distinguished award-winning designs that add class to any home. Contact them for custom furniture and cabinet designs that bring warmth to your kitchen. www.eurotechcabinetry.com

Cork tile flooring is a new generation in flooring for your home

2008-10-10T08:57:00.000-07:00

There are many unique characteristics of cork tile flooring. This type of flooring is often desired by those who want to "go green" because of the fact that it is a natural product that is actually derived from the bark of the ever-popular cork oak. This particular bark is especially interesting because of the fact that it is the only type of any tree that actually goes through a natural regeneration process.

This means that the tree itself is not harmed in any way - not like those trees that have to be cut down in order to create various types of woods for flooring. This is one of the main highlights of implementing the use of cork tile flooring.

The next unique characteristic of cork tile flooring that is composed of cork is that it is actually soft. It is not just soft to the touch, but it is also soft when you walk on it - almost like a firm type of carpet. There are several health benefits when it comes to the cork floor. Individuals that must stand on it for long periods do not complain of pain in the back, leg area, or the feet.

Individuals that have pain complications due to health conditions like arthritis, back complications, diabetes, and even fibromyalgia find that they experience fewer symptoms and more comfortable when they have this type of flooring in their home.

While many would believe that the durability of this particular type of flooring is quite low, the truth is that it is quite the opposite. Cork tile flooring is actually considered to be one of the most resilient types of flooring on the market today. There are little pockets, or cells of air that actually allow a massive amount of pressure to be applied to the tile without damaging it.

Once the pressure is eliminated, the tile quickly expands and regains its shape and original form. You will find that, with other types of wood, if indentations occur, these are permanent. However, with cork flooring, this is only temporary.

The next unique characteristic is that this type of flooring has been found to insulate much better than other types of flooring. Cork flooring is a relatively new concept that is quickly emerging as one of the most popular choices when it comes to "going green". As you have learned here, there are a number of advantages due to the unique characteristics of cork tile flooring.

About the Author: Daryl Plaza is a regular contributor to AllTileFlooring.com AllTileFlooring.com a website with resources and information for all your Tile Flooring Needs.

Installing Floor Insulation

A Brief Guide to Floor Cleaning

2008-10-10T08:38:00.000-07:00

Cleaning floors is one of the most important aspects of any cleaning programme and an essential element of any property, also depending on what kind of surface you have in your house; it will require different specialist equipment and techniques. Some general tips for keeping floors clean are to employ a proper selection of mats at doorways, often an entrance area with easy to clean floors (for example laminate flooring) and a dedicated area to store shoes. Just some of these simple techniques can make a dramatic impact on the cleanliness of a house that doesn't have these ideas properly implemented.

How to Prevent Slippery Floor

Carpet Cleaning & Care It is always a good idea to regularly vacuum the surface of carpets, this helps remove dirt that can cause permanent damage to fibres and also try to deal with spillages as soon as you can, the longer a spillage stays on a surface the more damage it can do. Often people look to get carpets or rugs cleaned professionally but there are various ways in which carpets can be cleaned to a very high standard without hiring professionals. Always use recommended or qualified products that are specified for use on the surface that you want to clean and so it is a bad idea to use generic cleaning products such as soap or dish washing liquids, these will often damage the surface far more then they clean it (for example the colour will bleed). It is a good idea before any new cleaning is done to a carpet to test the quality of the finish in inconspicuous areas, but always make sure you use a quality carpet cleaning machine.

When it comes to specific floor types, each different surface requires different cleaning techniques and products, some of these include,

Marble Floors Marble and limestone flooring is surprisingly delicate to clean, these surfaces are very tough and will last for a very long time but in order to keep the best possible surface there are some techniques that can be employed to ensure its lasting quality. Due to the nature of the surface it is a bad idea to use strong acids or alkalis that are often used to attack dirt as this often damages the quality of the surface. It is also a good idea to not scrub the surface of marble or limestone floors, especially with coarser cleaning equipment such as scouring pads, this also includes buffing or scrubbing machines as these can leave visible marks on the surface which can only be removed with polishing. Marble surfaces will clean efficiently with dilute detergent solutions and should be well rinsed after washing and left to dry, often surfaces such as marble are polished professionally but can be polished with a dry cloth.

Wood Floors Often wooden floors are polished so this has to be taken into account when cleaning; it isn't a good idea to use detergents, bleach, vinegar and ammonia. It is always a good idea to purchase wax based detergents to maintain wax flooring, and use a damp cloth to remove scuff marks, which should be removed quite easily with a bit of water and some scrubbing. You should always remember that the majority of normal detergents remove wax from flooring, always be careful when cleaning waxed floors as water can make them very difficult to stand on. After wooden floors have been cleaned it is a good idea to fully buff the finished floor, and it always a good idea to regularly re-wax wooden flooring to ensure that it keeps the quality of shine that it had to start with.

Laminate Flooring Often a good idea for houses that want a low maintenance solution, it is often considered as an alternative to genuine wood or stone surfaces. Often have a greater adaptability then genuine surfaces such as wood and stone, for example they react far better to water so can be used in kitchens and bathrooms. The first cleaning required on laminate flooring is the simple sweeping and vacuuming of the entire area, always clean the flooring with solutions specified by the manufacturers and use a simple flat mop and use smaller quantities of cleaning solutions then perhaps you would use on normal carpets. It is a good idea to never polish or wax laminate floors; these will damage the current finishes and make the flooring appear patchy, and also never clean with abrasive cleaning products such as scouring pads or steel wool.

Concrete Flooring Often cleaned using mild cleaner or dish soap, never using ammonia or vinegar, concrete floors are often quite easy to maintain and obviously have a high resistance to stains and ware. Always make sure to remove any remaining soap residue with warm water after the area has been cleaned and always wring the mop thoroughly during cleaning, too much cleaning solution or water may degrade the finish and generally only small amounts of water are needed to clean concrete.

About the Author: Andrew Doyle. The author is a contributing writer for clickcleaning.com. Click Cleaning are one of the leading providers of cleaning products and floor cleaning products online.

The Value of a Fireplace to a Home

2008-10-08T19:41:00.000-07:00

What is the Value of a Fireplace to a Home

More about fireplaces (article) in this blog.

Interior Painting Tips

2008-10-08T19:30:00.000-07:00

Unity Rules

Homeowners planning on interior painting often struggle over the issue of trim color during the planning process. Often they plan wall colors, on account of what they have seen in a magazine or while visiting a friend's home. Maybe they have a particular fabric in mind and want to match a color in the fabric for the walls in that room. Anyway, the problem arises with what to do with the trim for that room. Is it possible to use a different trim color than the existing trim being used in other areas of your home?

While there is no absolute rule about trim color, that if broken, would cause you to be arrested by the color scheme patrol, there are some things you should consider.

1. The trim and ceilings of your home are what establishes a unified look and feel throughout your home. You can change your walls to any color that you like, or that fits with the theme you have planned for the interior of your home. The use of one color on the trim and ceilings will give you a smooth transition between wall colors as you travel throughout your home. Without this consistency, your home takes on a feeling of disunity.

2. White trim and some off-white colors will go with any wall color. That is why it is used so often. It gives you much greater flexibility in interior color coordination and design. If you decide to paint all your trim a color, you will limit your options; however, I have seen some marvelous color co ordinations while using more color for trim.

If you really want to change the color of the trim for a particular room, then test the color. Try to get a feel for how it will impact the rooms or halls adjacent to that room. Will it be completely separated by a door? Will the door be closed most of the time? If the room is open to other areas of the house that are easily seen, how will that impact the color theme for the other parts of your home? You don't want to put a lot of time and effort into painting a room if in the long run you're not happy with how it makes the rest of your home look. Test the color on a door jamb or baseboard and then stand back and get a feel for what it does for unity of passage from other rooms to that room. It would be a good idea to wait a few days to see if you grow tired of the transition between colors. Often what we initially think looks good, loses its appeal over time.

About the Author: Nicky Taylor CEO of www.home-painting-services.com/interiorpainting.html Visit our web site for more information on how you can improve your own house painting projects.

Decorating Your Home with Style

2008-10-08T05:47:00.000-07:00

Creating a cohesive interior design for you home isn't that hard if you know some of the basics. In fact, decorating your home so that all the various elements combine to create the look you've always wanted can be a lot of fun.

Following are some proven tips to help you turn your house into a designer home:

Taking the first step

As they say, let's start at the beginning. Chances are good that your home is a mish mash of furnishings, art, accents and accessories that have been collected over time. To create the perfect designer look, you want to first consider the purpose for each room, how you want it to look, your personal tastes, features that can and can't be changed, and finally, the budget you have available. On this website Home decoration products you can find all the elements you need to decorate your home.

Start with the key elements

The success of a room's design lies in the balance you create. The basics of good design are proportion, balance, contrast, rhythm, pattern/texture and harmony. Knowing how these elements work together will help you design your space so that it's not only beautiful, but comfortable and functional as well.

Proportion

Scale is one of the most important things to consider when creating the look of a room. A room that is proportioned correctly will feel welcoming while an incorrectly portioned room will just feel crowded and unfriendly. The trick is to match pieces in terms of their scale. A large overstuffed sofa needs an equally large end table or coffee table; otherwise, these accents simply disappear as the sofa dwarfs them proportionally. When considering scale, look to the other rooms in your home for furniture that may be a better fit with the focal pieces you have in your room.

Balance

When creating balance, there's two ways to go here. The first is symmetrical design, where everything is perfectly balanced. With symmetrical design, there's roughly two of everything or items are mirrored in the room. For instance, one chair is placed exactly opposite another one just like it. While this creates balance, it can also make a room look static and lacking any visual interest or energy. Experienced designers use asymmetry to create this interest. Objects balance well because they are judged by their visual weight, not pairings. For instance, you may have a large sofa on one side of the room that is balanced by two large overstuffed chairs with an accent table in the middle and floor lamp behind. These pieces balance the sofa visually, even though they aren't equal in size or shape. The design works because there is balance in the asymmetrical layout of the furniture.

Contrast

Imagine walking into a white room with white carpet and white furniture. Pretty boring, huh? Contrast helps draw the eye around a room through the intelligent use of color. Bold use of colors creates energy while the use of muted shades in complementary tones creates calm. The more contrast you create, the easier it is for the human eye to follow the intended design of the room, moving visually from one space to another, guided by the use of color and contrast.

Rhythm

While creating contrast with the use of light and dark tones can be effective, it can also create boredom. To keep the room connected, you want to use rhythm. This means reusing specific colors, patterns, textures or themes throughout the room. Pick a couple main colors and repeat them in different ways in your paint scheme, fabrics and accents.

Pattern & Texture

As the eye moves about a room, it picks up specific patterns. These are grouped together, so a blue wall is combined with a striped piece of fabric that has the same blue in it. Patterns that don't fit create conflict in the mind, compromising the appearance of the space. Again, you want to pick one or two primary patterns or textures and vary them within the color palette you've already created for the room. Right alongside the elements of contrast and rhythm in home decorating is pattern/texture.

Harmony

If you've ever heard three singers sing different parts that sound amazing together, then you already know what harmony is. The same is true for the harmony in your home. Different colors, different designs and different proportions combine to create a new look that was never there before, just as new notes are created by singers singing three different parts. The room is suddenly complete. It has a look that if you remove just one element, won't have that harmonic feel to it any longer. When you've achieved harmony, you've achieved your design goals.

About the Author: Ichigo. Home decoration products Lighting for your home and outdoors

Cà d'Zan Mansion

2008-10-06T18:50:00.000-07:00

John and Mable Ringling in 1924 commissioned New York architect Dwight James Baum, to build their house. Ca d’Zan is The House of John translated from the Venetian dialect. The project was listed on Baum’s plans as “the home of Mrs. John Ringling,” and Mable was the principal contact for the construction and decoration of the interior. The mansion was completed in 1926, and soon become the epicenter of cultural life in Sarasota, evoking the Venetian Gothic palaces. Today is The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, oficial site www.ringling.org The pictures are from eCards in the site.

Solar Panels For The Home

2008-10-06T10:32:00.001-07:00

Power For Your Home

Solar Panels For The Home are the preferred choice for people that want to free itself from the chains of the electric company. Their fame is continuously getting higher.

I'm sure you watched the news channel speaking about the energetic problem. The petrol's price is rapidly ascending every day and there is nothing that let you think it will descend. You may also see that earth is taking a big risk, due the the great quantity of carbon dioxide released from houses, cars and every device that doesn't work with a clean kind of energy.

You can obtain many benefits by commuting your power grid.

The biggest view is that you can save many dollars. If you build solar panels for the home or a wind power system, the energy you will get from these devices won't let you spend a dime! Forget to pay for your electric energy again. It is not very joyful pay something like $80 for your energy every month. The result is: your electricity bill slashed by the 80%. It's self-explanatory the thousands of dollars saved each year. Consequence of this advantage is that you could be able to get paid from the electric company, because of the surplus of energy you'll produce.

With a solar or wind system the growth of gasoline price will not affect you and you will have more dollars available for your interests, desires and much more. With the solar panels for the home you can be independent when you decide that paying such high bills is tedious to you. This is the real deal.

This clean energy power systems aid the earth and your monetary resources as well. This is a renewable energy. We live in a intoxicated planet, just think about the Chinese country. China is rapidly growing, but those factories ejects continuous CO2 through the air. Someone could bet you couldn't live in China. It wouldn't be healthy. Mostly the environment is paying for the pollution like the man as well. The world needs to take another way or it will finish soon. These power grids are a solution. It's a thing so the planet will thank you. You've been a part of the solution.

Installing solar panels for the home adds value to itself when you go to resell it. In addition, there are state and federal incentives for using solar power as well as rebates from utility societies.

Setting up those devices is unaffordable, thousands of dollars are requested (even they are dropping in price), but you can still build your solar panels for the home by your own, with the right instruction you will be able to manage that. The most exciting part is when you build your grids, you'll very satisfied of you.

Our planet is over-heating, you've heard for sure the condition that the earth is living. We have to be more sensible about the our environment so, the future generation is also able to derive the advantages of solar energy.

If you're searching for a complete guide about setting up your own solar and wind power grids, go to: Solar Panels For The Home.

About the Author: Michael Johnson writes regularly about home related topics. I hope you enjoy this article.

Light Can transform Your Home

2008-10-06T10:04:00.000-07:00

To transform your house into your home, you have to consider home lighting design as well as furniture design. Remember it is an integral part of the general layout and character of your property.

Light has been called visual consciousness, and the effect of different lighting designs cannot be over emphasized.The lighting design can change the whole ambience of a room, and even brighten your mood.Consider your home lighting as one of the most important features, just as important as the color scheme and the style of the furnishings.

Home Lighting Design

Home lighting design is a vital element of residential décor.The technology associated with home lighting today has made it easier than ever before to accomplish grand things in your home with just the flick of the switch.

Once you know the lighting requirements you can set about the task of bringing your vision to reality. There are literally thousands of products available for home lighting design. However, the right home lighting design should be a part of your general scheme, without distracting from it. The lighting should be an extension of the overall theme of a room.

Lighting experts can save you time and money by helping you to choose the right home lighting products on your initial purchase.The concept of home lighting is more than just a few light bulbs. Starting a home lighting project can be a challenging undertaking for anyone, so dont jump in half cocked.It really does pay to have the research done, and the proper professional advice available.

Light Your Personality

Home lighting is a great way to portray your personality.There are interior design television shows and expos that you could use for reference, but always remember to only use those home lighting ideas that you instinctively like.Practicalities can be adapted to fit in with your wishes, not the other way around.You are the one that has to live with the resulting scheme, and your original ideas may come back to haunt you if you are not entirely happy with the end product. Once you see the difference the right lights can make, you will be searching everywhere for the latest in home lighting ideas to develop.

Energy conservation is on the tip of everyones tongue these days, and home lighting design is becoming an important part of the design program.Therefore LED lights are a natural choice when considering energy efficiency.With this in view there are many choices when it comes to designing home lighting. Although LED lighting may not be useful for all home lighting needs, replacing a few bulbs with LED bulbs would have a noticeable affect on the amount of electricity used. That can mount up, when you consider that your lighting bill will probable be about 10% of the household budget.

Do not forget that the style of chandelier that you choose will go a long way in determining your home lighting design theme.You can start with the chandalier as a statement,and set the scene for something really individual and unique to evolve.

While you are considering your home lighting design, you may want to keep the ceiling lights that you have.To this end remember you can enlist the aid of a professional.The importance of this cannot be overstated. A trained and experienced eye knows the pitfalls, and can be the source of ideas that simplify the whole project.As part of their job they will know the technology and shelf lighting options that you can use.The tools and resources are there so why work within limitations that are self imposed.

When you have decided on the overall lighting design scheme for the main lights, you can start positioning other lights in various places to best effect.

Table and floor lamps add finishing touches and fill those bare spaces.With such a huge selection on the market, you can transform a room by their use alone. Scented candles can fill your rooms with their soft flickers and pleasant aroma.

Outdoor home lighting consists of two primary categories: outdoor wall lighting and outdoor post lighting.Decorative wall sconces can make any foyer a welcoming place to arrive at.

When it comes to exterior lights for the home,a landscape lighting and design contractor can help you choose the most suitable lighting pieces,in order to develop a suitable exterior home lighting scheme.

With this overview in mind I hope you remember to enjoy the project, get properly organised and do your research.Then your lighting scheme will be an extension of your home and personality to be admired for years.

About the Author: Joseph Boyle. Writer/therapist/marketer www.lightlife.ws www.happiness-health.com

The Basics of Stone Fireplace Designs

2008-10-06T09:05:00.000-07:00

When it comes to all of the different types of fireplaces available to you, the stone fireplace design is one of the most popular. A big reason why this design is so popular is because a stone fireplace can look traditional as well as contemporary. If you have been thinking about installing a fireplace in your house, stone is your best option because the look of it never goes out of style. Of course, there are a few things you will need to think about when deciding upon whether this type of fireplace design is right for you.

The first thing you need to think about is whether the stone you will use is going to be functional or merely decorative. Your home's fireplace will have to be built according to local building codes. Naturally, most all of these building codes involve a fire box. The fire box is what contains the fireplace which means that it will not be built from stone, but the outside of the fireplace (the hearth and the walls surrounding it) can be constructed using stone (or materials that give the look of stone).

If you are set upon having a fireplace that uses stones, to build the inside of the fireplace your only option is to build the fireplace outside. Fire codes usually don't allow stone fire boxes inside a home. Of course, there are plenty of fire box construction materials that can be manipulated to look like stone. If you have questions about this, ask the person who will be building and installing your fireplace and see what options are available to you.

You should also take your location into consideration when deciding whether or not stone fireplace designs are right for your home. There are some areas that won't offer you the stones you desire that will give you the look you are going for. Believe it or not, there are parts of the world in which stone is considered a novelty! If you live in an area where building things from stone is not common, you can have them shipped to you, but because of its weight, the shipping costs involved in this are usually expensive. If at all possible, consider using stone in your local area (if applicable). This could end up saving you a large sum of money.

Make sure you check your local building codes before attempting to build a fireplace entirely from stone. Read through all of the regulations that surround this type of design installation. Outdoor fireplaces usually enjoy more leniency than indoor fireplaces, but make sure you do your research before committing to your project. This will keep you on the right track.

About the Author: Terry Edwards.You can find many more ideas on Stone Fireplace Designs as well as much more information on all types of fireplace designs at FireplaceDesignInfo.com

Bathroom Wallboard Uses Water Resistant Green-board

2008-10-04T08:03:00.000-07:00

Wet areas of the home use water resistant green-board instead of wallboard. Green-board is resistant to water and helps assure the homeowner that there will be no leaking of water in those areas.

Kitchens typically do not use green-board because they aren't considered a problem area, but bathroom showers and tubs have the greatest potential for splashing water on walls and water eventually penetrating into the wallboard and saturating it.

Tile is put onto cement board rather than green-board because it is firm and doesn't bend. If you don't know about these things, it is best to leave it to the professionals. If you use faux marble,it is installed custom fit at the time of installation, again because of potential water leakage due to a shower and the potential water penetration.

The shower base for faux marble doesn't use cement board, but the base is lined with cement which is mixed and cast in place. The outside edge of the shower base is higher than the drain and it has to be shaped so there is proper drainage.

This marble look is wonderful to clean. With a window squeegee you can wipe down the walls after each shower, and it's a whiz to keep the shower clean.

Some people prefer tile in their showers and cement board is used in this case for the walls because it doesn't bend. In a combination tub-shower the tile extends up the wall as does the cement board.

In a soaking tub only, it only needs a foot or so above the tub with tile that is placed on cement board both above the tub and below it, not all the way up the wall.

The pre-molded shower-tub combination is installed over green-board since you don't have to worry about bending, nor does it need a cement base.

Having used all these types of showers, I give a hearty vote for faux marble because of the easy cleaning with each shower and a squeegee.

Knowing that the chance of the shower leaking is nill, it gives the homeowner confidence and less worry about possible repairs in the future.

In any case, green-board or cement board is always used in the bathroom,whether in the basement, main floor or upstairs. You can always rest assured that in the modern built home, there is less problem with water leakage due to the use of green-board or cement board around tubs and showers.

About the Author: Linda Baxter is a piano teacher, and stay at home mom of nine children, (22 grandchildren) who acted as General Contractor for building their retirement home. She hired and paid subcontractors, was overseer of all construction work (with the help of her husband, RL), and did most of this from her armchair and telephone. She freely shares her experiences on her website > www.home-built4u.com

How to Go About Your Exterior Painting Project

2008-10-04T05:49:00.000-07:00

Exterior painting maybe considered as the most vital home maintenance project as it is often the paint with the caulking that protects your home from damage caused by varying weather and other elements. This is especially true with homes in New York City because of the humid subtropical nature of its climate. Winters come mildly cold but summer days are often humid and extremely warm with occasional thunderstorms. The seasons in between poses erratic changes from hot to cool. The New York climate alone should prompt home owners to have exterior painting done but this job also has other benefits like beautification.

In exterior painting, the difference between a first-rate and poor job will eventually become very much evident especially in the case where a portion or in some cases the whole work is to be redone. Because this project is essential, home owners should think not about the costs as long as they are getting the best value out of their hard-earned cash. Aside from the funding part, time, materials and labor should be taken into careful consideration. With these factors to reflect on, hiring an NYC exterior painting contractor would be most ideal, if you are not an expert on this project yourself.

After evaluating the façade of your home, checking on in the physical condition and different surfaces, you are now ready to take on exterior paint preparation. This method is very important as any mistake done within this stage would surely lead to failure of the finish. To avoid future maintenance jobs, pay special attention to areas that may need to be repaired. Aside from obvious indications of damage, these can also be hinted by discolored areas, blistering or peeling of old coat.

In exterior painting preparation, it is important that all loose paint is removed as a clean and good foundation may spell success or failure of the job. This step involves the most laborious tasks such as pressure washing, a combination of scraping and sanding, and even wire brushing for rough wood. When the surface has totally been cleaned, caulking, masking and priming comes next.

Choosing the proper application method as well as the best suited finish paint is vital in your exterior painting project. What have worked for others may not produce the same results for your home as different surface, masonry and house type may require a different paint and painting technique. There are numerous exterior surfaces with the most common including masonite, wood siding, stucco, vinyl, steel, exterior brick and concrete block. In choosing your paint, go for the low maintenance type as these will surely last for a longer period of time.

Handing your exterior painting project to the experts will surely add more years to the life of your home's façade. The skills and practical experience of the hired contractor, incorporated with high quality materials and products will result to less repairs and lower maintenance in the future. When you decide which New York contractor to choose, consider the exterior painting preparation that they have in mind. You could also opt for someone who is also qualified to do repairs to avoid having to call for another contractor.

About the Author: Eugene Makeev helps home owners avoid the common pitfalls in home improvements by matching their needs with the right, prescreened NYC Exterior Painting Contractors. For your project, here's a great tool you can use: Exterior Painting Calculator.

The Benefits of Investing in Quality Walk In Tubs

2008-10-04T05:42:00.000-07:00

Bathroom furnishings are not something that you expect to replace every six months. As a result, you need to make sure that you make the most informed decisions when you need to make a purchase. You do not want to make a rash choice and end up with a poor quality bathroom vanity or shower for which you paid a large amount of money. Several sales representatives out there are more than happy to give you information. You need to be careful however, because their first priority is their own paycheck, which comes from your money. To make sure that you are receiving the best information, you need to do your research! Check with several stores and try to find experts. The more information you have, the better!

One of the most common bathroom furnishings for which people have been looking recently are quality walk in tubs. These bathtubs, also known as safety tubs, are incredibly helpful for handicapped or elderly individuals. They are usually deeper and not as wide as standard bathtubs, have a door that opens up, and provide a convenient seat inside for comfort. In order to create a safer environment in the bathroom, these tubs eliminate a few of the larger obstacles bathing presents for those with limited mobility. These individuals no longer have to risk injury when getting in and out of the tub and the seat inside allows them safe transfer from a wheelchair and back. Many of these freestanding or corner bathtubs even have hydrotherapy options such as whirlpool jets. These therapeutic options relax tense muscles and even help in the recovery process!

The advantage of quality safety tubs is that they can fit in compact spaces and still give you an incredibly relaxing bathing experience. However, you want to make sure that you find a bathtub brand that is well known for its durable products. When you purchase your new bathtub, you need confirmation that it will last for several years!

Several websites have information about different types of bathtubs and the advantages/disadvantages of each. As long as you explore different options, compare prices, and check out various bathtubs materials, you should be able to find something that works best for your home and your price range!

About the Author: Jane Worthington is a creative writer with a passion for home and garden life. If you would like more information about bathtubs or bathroom fixtures, please visit the SimplyBathtubs.com website.

Fireplaces pictures for inspiration

2008-10-03T05:23:00.000-07:00

One fireplace like furniture and a hole in the wall. Contemporary fires in inspirating photos. More posts in this blog are about fireplaces > Eco smart fire

From Aidlindarlingdesign.com

Using Rustic Outdoor Lighting

2008-10-02T19:03:00.000-07:00

Decorating rustic is becoming more and more popular all the time and good lighting is essential in this type of setting. Using the right outside lighting is a good choice to help you feel relaxed and confident about the look of your property.

It is the rare product that is both practical and fashionable as few things actually combine style and substance, but rustic outdoor lighting does, allowing you to create a beautiful yard that is also safe and pleasing to the eye. This kind of outside lamp fixture provides the right function with the look you truly want, you could not ask for more.

What Is Rustic Outdoor Lighting?

Rustic outdoor lighting usually centers on nature and wildlife themes suitable for cabins, homes and lodges. The many different designs available includes bear lamps, lodge lamps, wall sconce , western, old fashioned lanterns, designer exterior, rustic hanging lantern lights, wrought iron wall sconces, decorative, rustic exterior lamps, outdoor garden, outdoor wall, patio and outdoor cabin accent lanterns.

You will also find a large variety of copper hanging lanterns available too. Many of these designs are also available for use outdoors. If you go about searching for these, you'll be amazed to see the enormous variety, ranging from western and southwestern to Adirondack and log cabin. A top selling design in country lamps are the wagon wheels. You can also find old fashioned looking lamps, worn down lights, and many other rustic looking outside items.

Outside illumination can affect your mood or even how you feel outside of your home. Whether it is old time lighting to set a special mood or to brighten up a room or even rustic outdoor lighting to demonstrate the beauty of your rustic cabin home you will be able to take that average rustic cabin or log home and make it the dwelling of your dreams with rustic outdoor lighting, for home cabin or lodge.

Using Rustic outdoor lighting can help carry the atmosphere of your country home into the outdoors or vice versa . You want to keep it this way by blending this with your other ornaments that match it, such as deck chairs or tables you can use. You may also want to use a variety of appropriate plants around to accent this, but keep in mind that tropical plants don't usually go well with rustic outdoor lighting.

Rustic outdoor lighting is one way to accomplish general outdoor lighting of your cabin or home. You can even find this type of lighting that involves hand crafted logs fixtures perfect for when you need an added touch of wilderness. This is a great way to spruce up your yard and add protective value to the outside of your cabin or home.

If you live along a coastline where metal rusts quickly consider rustic outdoor lighting made of copper. The copper fixtures are durable as well as beautiful for this purpose. Copper will never rot, rust or corrode only tarnish. Hence, use of copper in many outdoor situations is the best choice.

Southwestern Style Lamps

You can also light your home in southwest style rustic outdoor lighting, decorating the outside of your home or cabin in a western or southwestern motif. You can find many Southwestern and Native inspired lamps along with the small southwestern accents that will brighten the outside of your cabin and add some country western infused swing to your home. There are many unique and inspired lamps, wall art and different items for the log home, cabin, lodge or mountain decor.

Old lamps made with cowboy or ranch parts are great, but you can use almost any lamps made from wood, metal or antlers that are approved for outside use. Outside rustic lighting is usually decorated with natural items such as wood, animal antlers, old farm and ranch parts and much more.

Light is a byproduct of human activity at night. But how much lighting is put into the night is the difference between a pleasing, functional ambiance that encourages safety and an economically wasteful, harsh, glary atmosphere. By using multiple sources of lights, you will give your log home a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Before making a purchase of any outside lighting be sure it is UL rated for outdoor use. Outdoor Electrical lighting must be UL rated for outdoor use and comes with grounded cords.

About the Author: P.J. Keenon is an accomplished do it yourselfer, researcher and website developer that researches, writes and shares the research, knowledge and experiences through books and websites. If you would like to learn more about rustic and primitive outdoor lighting go to http://aboutoutdoorlighting.com/primitive_rustic_outdoor_lighting.html To learn more about all types of outdoor lighting, please visit www.AboutOutdoorLighting.com

Illuminations Architectural & Landscape Lighting - 00:40 min.

Blast Style Points with Modern Furniture

2008-10-02T08:59:00.000-07:00

They say that it´s a bit fancy going into making your home have the necessary improvement, but I think that with all the things that are in considerations, pampering your home is always not a bad case. Right now, there are a lot of things that we take as considerations, to compliment one design and to make it a home essential is a thing to always have to be in our minds. Although there are certainly things that we can keep in mind of, the improvement of a home relies on how well we carry it. Modern furniture always is a good thing to start to, as we all know it is a trend nowadays and more and more people are looking at it as vital items to add in a home. It is heavily regarded as a home piece that can always be a great treat to a home, most probably because it has the sense of style and more often than we all think of, it has a certain thought that we can always ponder.

A home as we all know needs a makeover once in a while, if we feel that it has to have a new lift and looking dull, improving its overall design is a good thing to consider. Approaching it in a way that can be regarded as a move to make your home have that necessary improvement is another thing that we should keep in mind. A lot of people looks at it in a way that can be really be considered as big work. Well, looking at possibilities, a home can always catch your thoughts and further point to having some necessary changes that one can always give attention to. Modern furniture is merely a tool to make the first step, having modern furniture into a home is a a good thing, especially when you are looking for more improvements that can further be a vital stage for your home´s makeover.

They say that when you are considering having a home that can be equal to a lot, we can all see the great factors that can be regarded as our home´s private space. Let us carry the thoughts that can further execute as a new way to make your home live In style. Of course some people may disagree on the things that we all can look at, especially when using your home´s motif for improvement, the modern styles fittingly blends with any home, as it carries a lot of observations that people have to make. Looking at the new stages, it is really a nice thing to keep in mind that modern furniture acts a lot and can make a good impression in the long run. More relatively known as an impact maker to a home, the modern furniture genres have painted what people wants to see into a home. We should all conduct our own observations on modern furniture and for that we can always make a great deal of knowledge for home improvement.

Jron Magcale
Modern Furniture Modern Sofa

Bathroom Remodeling

2008-10-01T09:39:00.000-07:00

Luxuriously Beyond Comfortable

Just like in any big city, life in New York can sometimes get really stressful at times, especially for the working class. The monotony of the hustle and bustle hangs in the air from the moment that you step out of your living unit, all throughout the working hours, and even up to the time that one heads home. Once in your apartment, condo or townhouse, you are then greeted by the unwelcoming sight of everyday clutter. Sounds familiar? Would it not be a luxury to be able to pamper yourself before you hit the sack and before starting your long day? Sure. And that is why you need to have a bathroom remodeling project done to turn your very personal and intimate space into an area that is luxuriously beyond comfortable.

In the city that never sleeps, having a bathroom that is both stylish and luxuriously functional is a well-deserved indulgence that anybody should have. The benefits do not only involve you as the value of your home will be heightened to considerable extent. To achieve the best possible result in your bathroom remodeling project, you should hire the right NYC contractor to do the job effectively for you. Doing so will save you the time, money and effort considering both the short and long term results.

Enumerated are some bathroom remodeling ideas focusing on how to achieve luxury that is beyond comfort:

Invigorating Steam

The healing and calming properties of steam have long since been known to be beneficial not only in terms of health but also in beauty by invigorating the skin. Today, you need not go travel to Scandinavian countries or head to the nearest expensive fitness and health clubs to experience rejuvenation as you can have a modern sauna in the comforts of your own home through bathroom remodeling. Size is not an issue as these contemporary bath features can easily fit into even a moderately sized bathroom.

Another spa-like option but with a more modern twist that you can choose is to have a steam shower. Occupying a space similar to that of a typical shower, you can already enjoy a nice steam shower or even a whirlpool bath. Each compact unit has very attractive additional features like full-dimensional back massages, radio and telephone, CD player and remote control.

Warm and Fluffy

Ideally, after a satisfying bath, you would want to reach out to warm and fluffy towels and for a small investment you can enjoy these by having towel warmers.

Another great idea to add into your bathroom remodeling plan to maximize warmth and comfort is having a warming system installed under bathroom tiles. This should take off the apprehension of stepping into a cold floor after getting warmed up in the shower.

Chromatherapy

This term which may be new to some people is a branch of holistic healing that has evolved into a trend in bathroom remodeling and design which is increasingly gaining popularity. This lighting scheme makes use of the known coordination of colors that change to create a relaxing and stimulating ambiance. Chromatherapy options can be enjoyed with several bathroom features like shower systems, bathtubs, and even sinks.

About the Author: Eugene Makeev has been in the home improvement industry for a while. His skills and expertise, which have been polished through time, are now used to help New York home owners avoid the common pitfalls in home improvements by matching their needs with the right, prescreened NYC Bathroom remodeling contractors. To know more, visit www.craftsmennetwork.com

Bathroom Remodeling - 00:31 min.

Granite Countertops Still Top List of Home Improvements

2008-09-29T16:35:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Despite the sputtering economy, consumer spending on home renovation remains healthy. Across the nation, homeowners are investing in home remodeling projects -; especially kitchen makeovers -; either to make their homes more appealing to buyers or more comfortable and enjoyable while they ride out the housing slump.

And one of the most popular home improvements is, once again, granite countertops.

A recent study of 10,000 consumers, conducted by the Research Institute for Cooking and Kitchen Intelligence, found that kitchen renovations remain at the top of the list for consumers seeking to add value to their homes. When the study asked homeowners, "If you were changing your kitchen now and had no budget constraints, what improvement would you make?" granite countertops were among the kitchen features they coveted most.

Many consumers are tightening their belts but remain eager for granite countertops, according to Garis Distelhorst, executive vice president of the Marble Institute of America, the nation's leading natural stone association.

"Historically, consumers recognize that granite countertops enhance the value of a home in ways few other improvements can," said Distelhorst. "No other countertop surface can measure up to granite in terms of practicality, timeless beauty, durability and safety. This natural stone has held its value in ways more trendy materials have not."

Consumers continue to invest confidently in kitchen makeovers because the projects typically increase the resale value of their homes. In the last five years, kitchen remodeling projects have generally returned 80 to 85 percent of consumers' investments, according to the "Cost versus Value Report" from Remodeling magazine.

Because kitchen renovations increase resale values, experts agree that if consumers can only afford to renovate one room in their homes, it should be the kitchen. In fact, an all-new kitchen "that looks great and is fun to work in" was the top priority of 2,200 home enthusiasts surveyed recently by Better Homes and Gardens magazine.

"What we've discovered is that the home continues to be our emotional center and the sweet spot of everyday life," said Gayle Butler, Better Home's editor in chief. "Economic uncertainty aside, we won't stop spending, improving and dreaming."

For more information, visit the Marble Institute Web site, www.usenaturalstone.com

The Truth About Granite and Radon/Radiation

Modular home in Palmetto - FL

2008-09-28T16:57:00.000-07:00

This is a nice 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom modular house in Palmetto, Manatee County built in 1979. Modular built homes are transported on flatbed trucks. Some of these houses are towed behind a semi-truck on a frame similar to that of a trailer. The house is usually in two pieces and is hauled by two separate trucks. Each frame has five or more axles, depending on the size of the house. Once the house has reached its location, the axles and the tongue of the frame are then removed, and the house is set on a concrete foundation by a large crane.

Basement Remodeling:

2008-09-28T15:32:00.000-07:00

The Essentials

In New York City, living space is a luxury that is mostly availed by the grand money-makers. For the average thriving everyday in busy New York, condos, apartments and small townhouses are the more popular option. Space is always an issue. But what most of these people have not realized is that there are still areas in the house left unused. If you are one of these people who have left their basements as storage where everything just catches dust or mold, then it is high time to consider some serious basement remodeling.

To start off, do ample research and hire a basement remodeling contractor in New York that you think is best suitable for the job that you need done. This project would require an advanced knowledge not only in construction and design, but also in flooring, heating, waterproofing, wiring, as well as plumbing. So, unless you are a contractor yourself, this project is better left for the pros to handle.

The NYC contractor makes sure that the job is done in reference to your needs, taste and plan. When deciding on the most suitable space to create out of the basement, consider the readily available advantages that it offers. You can plan to set it up as a dark room or home theatre, music room, play area, or just anyplace where you can enjoy the isolation and privacy. There are essential things to take into consideration while drafting your basement remodeling plan and these are:

Dampness and other water problems

The basement is an area in the house known to be more prone to dampness, flooding and other water problems. Before heading on to the rest of the work, this should be your primary concern. Depending on your budget, you can either have a de-humidifier or have good floor heating with waterproofing membrane to take care of the dampness. But even if the issues given rarely occur, you should still consider that proper insulation is in place. A basement remodeling founded by giving permanent solution to future problems would result to lesser costs in the long run with less risks of maintenance.

Lighting

Another important element in basement remodeling is lighting. Having at least one wall above the ground is advantageous in maximizing natural light. To get more sunlight, you can have new windows added or increase the size of existing ones. For areas without windows, you can have radiant lighting fixtures. Mirrors mounted on ceilings and/or walls also help in heightening the effects of the lights.

Heating and air conditioning

Have a professional check if the heating and air conditioning of the whole house could amply accommodate the additional space resulting from the basement remodeling. If the existing system does well, the next step to consider would be having zoned heating and cooling. If not, have another heating and air conditioning system installed to control the temperature in the new living space in the house.

To achieve a basement remodeling project result to last a long time, focus on the given essentials. If you need to cut-off on the budget on some areas, be more creative and try to make use of the current floor plan. Incorporate the existing posts, support beams and other features that basement originally have into the design. Removing the visible duct work would also be expensive. To solve this unsightly portion, you can opt to have a low ceiling and just play with the lighting to make it seem higher, or frame boxes around the duct work with the rest of the ceiling in its original height.

About the Author: Eugene Makeev has been in the home improvement industry for a while. His skills and expertise, which have been polished through time, are now used to help New York home owners avoid the common pitfalls in home improvements by matching their needs with the right, prescreened Basement Remodeling Contractor New York. To know more, visit www.craftsmennetwork.com

Decks And Patios

2008-09-26T19:06:00.000-07:00

Decks and patios are an ideal way to opening up the space of your home, creating a place where you can go to relax after a hard days' work, or have a nice family picnic with your kids. You can decorate your decks and patios to reflect your own personality, by choosing the style that suits you best. There are many different types of decorating styles for you to choose from, and if you visit the internet you are sure to get some great ideas on how to decorate your decks and patios.

New Backyard Deck and Patio - 01:53 min.

You can design your decks and patios as an added extension of your home, for instance placing your decks and patios next to the kitchen entrance would certainly make your home seem bigger than it actually is, and you can probably install some sliding doors that would make it seem totally connected to the rest of your home. When planning on building your decks and patios one of the most important things you should take into consideration would be the overall structure of your home, you should try and create your decks and patios area to fit into the overall design of your home.

The one thing you can all agree on is whether it is a deck or a patio that you are installing you are most certainly going to be placing a BBQ Pit on it. This is the place where the entire family can gather on a nice moonlight night and have a cozy family dinner in the comfort of your deck or patio. Choosing the right furniture is very important, and there are many different types of furniture available for your decks and patios designs. Another idea that you can consider is making your decks and patios into a particular theme, for instance you can create a really true American backwoods theme, by purchasing some nice old country furniture, and decorating you decks and patios with all sorts of items from that era, you can visit some of the antique websites where you are sure to find lots of items that you can use.

You should look for old cowboy hats and maybe an old horse saddle, old rocking chairs, and stuff like that would be ideal for your country theme, an d if you are fortunate enough you might come across and old water dip pale and a genuine rifle. You can craftily place all these things on your decks and patios to make it a truly recreation of an old farm house, including wood logs and all. Also for this theme you will have to choose a wood floor to complement your furniture and accessories, to reflect that era.

This is just one idea of how best you can decorate your decks and patios to enhance your overall outdoor design, but if you were to visit the internet you will be sure to find lots of fun and interesting ideas to create your perfect decks and patios schemes that are going to simply have your neighbors wondering about for days, after you have invited them to your very first barbecue party and they will probably be talking about it for weeks to come.

About the Author faizan. Visit DIY Home Improvement Ideas for more excellent "furniture and accessories" info and DIY guides from " true American backwoods theme" to decorating a living room plus more. "building your decks and patios

Modern Furniture Designs

2008-09-26T18:56:00.000-07:00

The art of furniture devise continues to evolve as the creativity of man is sparked with current dreams. The crucial furniture designs were to address the poverty of man for comfort and convenience. Nevertheless today, many designers are now incorporating the idea of talent and form into their creations to accommodate every individual's tastes and preferences.

The architectural designs of fresh homes do give a futuristic sensation both on the exterior and interior facing. In sincerity, these designs were regularly resulting from Sci-Fi movies that we generally see in theaters today. Modern designers and architects are now incorporating these futuristic visions into actuality.

This is also the lawsuit when it comes to furniture. We regularly stagger through department food or browse through different furniture sites on the Web to find these futuristic designs incorporated into different types of furniture. From the bedroom to the kitchen, each of these current designs addresses the neediness of man for the convenience and beauty.

Many would think that incorporating fresh furniture with old-fashioned homes is an act of impossibility. They may think that the outdated designs would hideously clash with fresh talent. Nevertheless we never grasp that ability of these recent designs to adapt well with their ancient counterpart.

It is very expensive to convert old-mold homes to accommodate fresh furniture, which is really a misconception. You don't have to request wide renovations or to get rid of old-form furniture to make way for the new ones. Both can work hand-in hand to give your scope a delicate, yet matchless think that a current-designed home should ooze. Before you dive into the prepare of generous your home an absolute makeover, you indigence to plan well in improve to maximize resulting with least sacrifice.

Gathering ideas are the first footstep to a successful modernization home improvement pitch. Look them up from home improvement magazines, TV shows, or even on the Internet to give you some idea on what you can work with. You can also balance different old-devise homes and how each individual homeowner adds fresh furniture into its fold.

Once you have found the fashion that you fancy to become your home into, you need to look into different modern furniture that will accentuate the beauty of your strategy. Consider the influence of your room, as well as the inclusive theme and flare that you want your home to display. If you are having difficult on this one, you can hire a professional interior designer to give you a hand.

The possibility of integrating modern furniture purpose with old-fashioned homes is endless. You need to let those creative juices flowing, while custody a severe strap on your conservatism to wrench it off. All-in-all, the success will correctly reveal the ultimate home of your dreams and something that you can be extremely be proud of.

About the Author: Allison Ayson writes for Jump2top.com - SEO Company

Creating a Better Bathroom

2008-09-24T18:29:00.000-07:00

A better bathroom starts with a center piece. The center or hub of the bathroom is usually the bathroom vanity. A person that walks in the bathroom usually gravitates to the bathroom sink. It is a natural reaction. A whirlpool tub will take away the center piece attention but if this is the case, the vanity then becomes a nice complement to the whirlpool. Either way it is important to have a vanity that exemplifies the quality of your bathroom. Finding the right bathroom vanity is now easier then ever.

A bathroom is both a place of comfort and a place for usage. It is a retreat that becomes private, but it is also a place where you can show expression. Visitors to your house will undoubtedly use this facility and this will also provide for an impression. Leaving your visitors awed can be an easy and relatively inexpensive proposition. Or you can also decide to expand your budget and go extravagant. Whatever you decide, it will start with the bathroom vanity.

When looking for a bathroom vanity it is important to look online. Prices online are thirty to fifty percent less than buying retail and it's usually better quality. (If you find the better websites). First, finding the better websites; this can be done by doing an internet search for key words like RTA (ready to assemble), bathroom vanity, or high end vanities. These types of words are more specific and will get you to what you are looking for faster. After you have found some reliable websites, take some time and scroll through the site. Make sure it's legit and then compare the site prices with a few other sites. You should see some big price differences and also quality differences. Shop for the best and make sure you are comparing the same thing on each site. Note: some sites sell vanities that look the same, but carry inferior material.

Keep in mind that avoiding retail not only saves you time and gas money, but it also provides delivery to your door and gives you a much wider variety. Vanities known as higher end or better quality usually do not show up in regular retail stores. Also, these types of vanities are usually found in major metropolitan areas (that have specialty shops), but because of the internet, shopping for unusual or high quality vanities is now possible.

So start your bathroom right. Build it around a great vanity and go from there. It can be a less expensive RTA (ready to assemble) style bathroom vanity or you can shoot higher and go for something that stands out as a piece of furniture. You will be making a statement and starting a new look. It will be a statement that shows off a different part of your house. Visitors might not expect to be impressed with the bathroom, but with the right vanity, a bathroom can have that feel. And from this you will have another room that is a show piece in your house.

About the Author: Gary Nealon. I have been remodeling houses for over 10 years... want to find out my secret to getting deals on bathroom vanities and bathroom furniture vanities? I have been able to save hundreds on each of my bathroom renovations.

Eco Smart Fire

2008-09-24T04:12:00.000-07:00

This are models from Natrona - NY: Designer range, Grate range, Burner "only", Renovator range ($2,300 to $8,800).

The EcoSmart™ Fire is a new open fireplace, environmentally friendly, aesthetically appealing, efficient and cost effective. The modular design means it is versatile enough to fit into a wide range of architectural environments. Whether installed in a loft, studio, apartment, terrace house or freestanding home, the EcoSmart™ Fire provides the 'primal' warmth and comfort of fire while enhancing the contemporary aesthetics of today's living environments.

Ecosmart Fire featured on CBS - 02:44 min.

All EcoSmart™ Fires feature a burner as its core flame technique, externally looks clean and simple, internally the engineering and design is sophisticated and intelligently considered. The EcoSmart™ Burner assembles like a puzzle with a cover that seals and protects the internal mechanics. Its modular design allows varieties of fascias and enables it to slot into place.

The technique of housing and burning a flammable liquid offering an open flame in a controlled and safe environment has created a unique flue less open fire that can be installed just about anywhere - Ecosmartfire.com

How to Sell a Home in a Depressed Market

2008-09-23T09:11:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - Mark had a $7,000 dollar-a-month problem -; a mortgage on a home he couldn't sell.

Mark, a real estate professional, built the $1.25 million dollar property in an upscale Phoenix, Ariz. neighborhood, then watched it sit for over a year. With mortgage payments eating into his potential profits, Mark dropped his price several times. Buyers weren't interested.

"If you told me then what I know today, I would have shot you," Mark said jokingly. What didn't Mark know? That the housing market would crash.

In today's depressed housing market, profits prove unrealistic. Homeowners with sitting properties need to sell quickly.

Mark, accustomed to selling homes himself, turned to the Fast Action Homes Sales System to learn how to sell his property. Signs, printed ads and a custom-built Web site led to a weekend bidding war.

With a grueling year and a half on the market behind him, Mark sold his property in only three weeks following use of the new system. In selling for market value, Mark escaped the holding costs that threatened to ruin his personal finances. Figuratively, he lost two fingers in his real estate deal -; but he saved his hand.

In a down market, people who are set on a high asking price will see holding costs drain money from their wallets. The market cannot absorb the number of homes needing sale. Experts predict that the housing market will only worsen. Waiting for an upturn will leave sellers bankrupt.

On the same weekend that Mark sold his property, two other Phoenix residents also used the Fast Action Homes Sales System.

Judy, an interior designer, used the Fast Action System to attract over 100 visitors to an open house. She received nine offers.

John, an appraiser, rented his house to the wrong people -; his former tenants caused $30,000 in damages. To pay for repairs, John put himself in credit card debt. He needed to sell the house just to cover his bills. The Fast Action Home Sales System led several buyers to offer market value for John's house. John could not profit from the sale, but he could cover his losses.

Today's market leaves property owners with two options. They can either rent out their properties until the market improves, or they can escape the worst by selling their homes now.

To access a quick-start guide to the Fast Action Home Sales System, either visit www.RealEstateKit.com or call 1-800-669-1038

How to Sell Your Home - 03:35 min.

Kitchen Remodeling Done By Professionals

2008-09-22T16:12:00.000-07:00

The kitchen intimidates many people who are considering remodeling their home. They feel that the kitchen, among the different home renovation aspects, is the most expensive. This impression is derived from a lot of internet sites that tell them this. It is unfortunate, because a lot of people do want to have a great kitchen. It's time to find out what many people are afraid of is actually true.

Watch the latest videos on YouTube.com

The kitchen is not just a place to cook food; it is a place where members of a family interact with each other over a meal. There was a time when kitchens were not given much importance as far as their designs are concerned. That, however, does not hold true today. Today, many people (especially women) reject buying a particular house just because it does not possess a stylish kitchen.

Can you turn an awful kitchen into a beautiful one? The positive response to this involves kitchen remodeling. Although many people believe that redoing a kitchen is very costly, you can actually have your kitchen renovated within a reasonable budget. The basis for that lies in the latest technological developments in the construction and interior decoration fields.

Nowadays, with the readiness of new materials and gadgets, kitchen remodeling is a simple job for a local remodeling contractor. No trip to a bank is necessary; you don't need to borrow money for the job. Furthermore, all the hype about kitchen remodeling projects taking forever is just a myth. Cabinets can be customized and arranged in a couple of hours or so. There are vast numbers of paints and laminates to choose from as well to get the kitchen of your dreams.

You can maximize the space in your kitchen by using roll-out drawers and open shelf cabinets. Another consideration could be whether or not to replace your old cabinet doors with new and stylish glass doors. These simple solutions make it clear that unlike kitchen refinishing, kitchen remodeling can be easy.

It's imperative that you hire a professional in order to ensure a great kitchen remodel. Hiring an experienced kitchen designer will aide you in planning the remodeling. A modern, remodeled kitchen is among the most significant features of a home renovation. To locate a knowledgeable and experienced Washington DC architect to assist in the remodeling of your kitchen, try performing an Internet search.

About the Author: Terry Lamb. A redecoration of the kitchen area is the home renovation that is most in demand nowadays. Can you turn an awful kitchen into a beautiful one? The positive response to this involves kitchen remodeling.

How Do You Find the Right Architectural Services for a New Home?

2008-09-21T07:53:00.000-07:00

While each architectural design firm has their own unique approach to their work, it is important to find a home architect that has architectural services that fit your needs. You need to be clear on your needs and goals when you are searching for the right architectural design company for your project. This way, you'll be sure to get the architectural services that you need. Some of the main questions you need to answer when looking for a residential architect include: do you need more space? What activities will go on in the new space? What is your budget for the project and how will it be financed? Will you be doing some of the work yourself? Once you have your questions answered and you know what you need and want, you can begin the process of choosing the right architectural services for your project.

Building Your List of Architecture Firms That Do Modern Design

Now you need to start building your list of architecture firms that can do the project you need. You can start by looking at the architectural design firms in your area that specialize in modern design. If you are seeking a residential architect (rather than building an office), search specifically for residential architects. Contact your local chamber of commerce for recommendations, speak to friends and relatives, or contact the American Institute of Architects. Any of these areas are great ways to find good architectural services for your project.

Custom Homes Architects or Residential Architects?

All custom homes architects are residential architects, but not all residential architects are custom homes architects. Some residential architects design homes for developments where none of the homes are custom - they are all the same.

Once you have a list of potential architecture firms that you want to interview, start at the top of your list and start interviewing. You should be able to tell right away if the chemistry is right between you and the architectural design firm that you are interviewing. This means that they should be able to answer all of your questions about modern home design, such as: luxury home plans, green design, minimalist architecture, and even postmodern architecture. If they cannot answer your questions to a degree that makes you feel comfortable with their architectural services, then they are not the architecture firm for you.

About the Author: Lydia. This informational article is provided to you by one of the most highly-regarded architecture firms in Asheville, NC: Carlton Architecture. Please visit their web site at Carltonarchitecture.com

+ Fireplaces

2008-09-21T05:51:00.001-07:00

To updating the fireplace to your home or to adding a new one, a gas fire or an electric fire may be worth your consideration. Besides the most obvious reason for wanting to add either a gas fire or an electric fire to the home, people tend to also want with their updated or added fires to match the décor and feel of the home even the prices and other things such as efficiency, quality can be the next things to consider.

More pictures here

Watch the latest videos on YouTube.com

Hundred Foot House - Orinda

2008-09-20T06:57:00.000-07:00

Rendering of a new house in Orinda, California, a proyect of Ogrydziak/Prillinger architects. Has a 100´ long bar (Hundred Foot House) is for a young family moving from the city to the country, an essentially transparent house.

Maximize the exposure of the interior of the house. The first design decision was to elongate the primary program into a 16'-wide 100'-long bar, increasing the perimeter adjacent to the outside.

The exterior space penetrates the interior, and the procession from ouside-in-and-outside-again is monumentalized as a fully transparent slot, stitching the house into the landscape.

The Minimalist Approach to Home Decorating

2008-09-19T19:32:00.000-07:00

There's something to be said for simplicity in home design. There is a relaxing atmosphere to a room that just contains the necessities for comfortable living. Minimalism works to conquer clutter, to make a room easier to live in, to clean and, in the event that you are trying to sell your home, makes it so much easier to stage.

One thing that has to be made clear: minimalism does not mean sterile, no-personality furniture and decor. In fact, furniture should be comfortable to look at and use. Wall prints should be suitable for the color of the room and inviting. The color scheme can work in warm and cool. While decoration should be kept to a few pieces, it should be present, to lend some character to the room. Never think that minimalism means soulless!

One method of simplifying a target room is to strip it of all - ALL - non-essential things. Take a bedroom - the only thing you really NEED for it to be an effective bedroom is a decent bed. A bedside table would be nice, too. A lot of people dress in their bedrooms - drawers are an advantage. Also, a laundry hamper might be needed for dirty clothing. If you're a reader, you might want a bookshelf. A chest for sheets and blankets might come in handy.

Do you have too many clothes? Go through them and cull the ones you haven't worn for a year. If you have a chair in your bedroom that just serves to collect tossed clothing, get rid of that too - it's more of an incentive to fold or hang or hamper your clothes. Check window sills for knick-knacks and either toss them or reorganize them on a special shelf that gets them where they can be seen and out of the window area. The same goes for all the other paraphernalia that collects in the bedroom: get rid of some or repurpose it to a more useful venue.

Storage solutions need to come into this as well. It's not enough to have bins, shelves, hooks and boxes. Everything needs to have its place and be put back in its place. If you establish the rule 'A place for everything and everything in its place' (cliched but useful), you will find that your clutter magically disappears anyway. When you don't have room for something, you should seriously consider whether you need it before creating/buying/making space for its especial benefit.

The results, once you have gotten the room down to just what it needs, can be stunning, both in terms of decor and in terms of sheer space. There is a real feeling of freedom when one is confronted by a tract of sheer space. It exudes possibilities that need never disappear if you keep it at this beautiful, simple, clutter-free state.

Think of this 'new' bedroom and how much easier it is to clean and prepare for visitors. Think of how much easier it would be if your entire home was like this. It starts with one room, but can encompass the entire house, leading you to a simpler, less cluttered, and ultimately less stressful life.

About the Author: Todd Levinson. Philadelphia Real Estate Guide: Find Society Hill condos and homes in Center City Philadelphia. Easy-to-use search and neighborhood info from Todd Levinson, Philly Buyer's Agent.

Home Decorating Ideas - 04:06 min.

Esherick House

2008-09-19T14:22:00.000-07:00

This is a Modernist masterpiece - Collectible Architecture: Louis Kahn's Esherick House.

Built between 1959 and 1961 in Chestnut Hill, Pennsylvania for Margaret Esherick. This house also features the original custom kitchen designed by sculptor Wharton Esherick. Is a one-bedroom house, Landmark Building. Via blog.2modern.com

Pictures from Livingathome.de

> Esherick House

Concrete Buildings Resist Hurricanes

2008-09-19T07:11:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - In August 2008, Hurricane Gustav forced 2 million Gulf Coast residents from their homes. And while the storm lost force before landing, it did threaten homes and New Orleans' still-unfinished levees.

Precast Concrete Walls - 03:16 min.

The focus on New Orleans, just three years after Hurricane Katrina devastated the city, should remind Americans to prepare their towns for natural disasters. Natural disasters are on the rise, and while politicians put more police on the streets to stop crime, few see rewards in enhanced disaster preparedness. According to one study published by researchers from Loyola Marymount University and the Stanford Graduate School of Business, constituents value politicians who respond to natural disasters, not those who spend money building safer infrastructures.

But when a hurricane or earthquake strikes, a capable infrastructure can save more lives than any emergency-response team. Well-built roads and buildings make evacuations and rescues easier and more effective. Building to resist hurricane-force winds, earthquakes and floods can help communities avoid billions of dollars in damages.

Builders can elevate buildings in flood plains and add basements or even storm shelters to homes in tornado-prone areas, giving residents a safe place to avoid storms. Roofs can be anchored to buildings' foundations, preventing high winds from removing rooftops during storms.

Some states have recognized that homes should be built to stand against the elements. In Florida, the building code is written to protect homes against 100-mph winds. And what materials do Floridian builders use to build strong homes? Eighty-five percent of the single-family homes built in Florida are made from concrete masonry.

Concrete masonry buildings resist decay, fungus, moisture, mildew, fire and hurricane-strength winds, helping to protect communities from structural damage caused by natural disasters.

For more information, contact the National Concrete Masonry Association at www.ncma.org