Great video on how to fix a hole in your wall .
Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He has just finished a Home Buyers Guide to take some of the frustration out of home shopping.
If your looking for some more home inspection or home building ideas.
Split Stair BalustersCopper is one metal that is starting to develop a strange behavior in the last few years, from an almost forgotten place among the wide used metals, copper has re emerged to become one of the most searched metals on earth, with a growing market for stolen copper and scrap copper, this is something that many do not know and fail to take advantage of.
Metal can be found in many places around the house, especially if it is an old house, if you have access to old houses, many of which use a lot of heating devices and water tanks made of copper you can be pleasantly surprised at the money you can make selling this metal.
Here are some tips on how to find scrap copper in your home and give you additional short time income that you can use on some of your miscellaneous expenses.
The Kitchen. The kitchen is one of the places where you will find lots of scrap copper, some people have copper pots, copper cooking utensils and even copper plates. Sometimes coppers turns green with time or as it ages it turns into a different color so you barely notice them.
You can check if some of discolored metal utensils are copper by scraping a bit off its outer layer when it shows of a copper color then it is copper. Anyway your buyer of scrap copper can distinguish which are true coppers and which are not. So you can just bring out your unused or old metal utensils and just have them checked on the store.
The Living Room. Most of the copper that can be found on your living room are from decorative materials like chandeliers, picture frames and even side table tops are sometimes made from copper. You can check out the top of your fireplace from some old picture frames and check if they are copper and can be sold.
Sometimes even small decorative figurines are made out of copper so try to be on the look out for it. Firewood holder is also made out of copper.
The Garage. This is where most of the scrap copper in your old home can be found. This is a haven for finding copper cause this is where much of the heavy or metallic thing is being stored out.
In your garage you can start looking for bigger object like car parts that you have already got rid of and barbecue grills. Wires from your computers are also a good source of copper. Almost every wire consists of copper strings that are bundled up. Even motors are made up of copper so try to look out for small motors from your old vacuum cleaner or small appliances that are motor driven.
One last thing, in the past few years many people have been victimized by criminals that steal copper from any possible item, you are definitely encouraged to call the police and report any such actions, re using scrap copper could be nice, but please do this only for things that you own.
Copper and metal price is soaring due to the global growth, and many markets respond with a growing and outstanding demand for copper and Scrape Copper, learn more about copper at http://copper.zupatips.com.
Deck Framing Wood DamageWhen I told a friend the other day that I had bought three shower head water filters for my house, she thought I was going a little overboard. Filtering your drinking and cooking water she could understand, but filtering bath and shower water? Honestly, she told me I had turned into a nut case.
Once I told her what I'm about to tell you, however, she saw why I was so insistent that shower filters are no longer a luxury, but a necessity for anyone interested in their health. And also she saw why I was so interested in finding the best shower filters to use in my home.
Basically there are three things you need to understand about shower filters.
Let's take these three truths and talk about them point by point.
Your Skin
I had never thought about it until I started researching water filters and shower water filters specifically, but your skin is just as much a living, breathing organ as your lungs are.
This is going to sound a little naive (especially for a college educated guy), but I thought of skin as more of a covering. Kind of like a really well fitting body suit. But there's much more to your skin than just keeping dirt out of your body.
For one thing, you release as many toxins through your sweat as you do urinating. That's one of the reasons it feels so good to exercise or work in the yard and get a good sweat going.
Conversely, you intake toxins into your body through your skin just as easily as you can through your mouth.
So, all of those pollutants, carcinogens, and toxins that are making their way into our municipal water systems easily get into your body through your pores, which open when you bathe in warm water.
Water Quality
Speaking of pollutants!
Just to make sure you're on board with this whole water filtering thing, anyway, let's make sure you understand the sorry state of your municipal water system.
Let me just cite one study done recently which took at look at trace pollutants in the water systems of 29 major American cities. 29 out of 29 (that is, 100%) of these cities had at least one pesticide in their water. Several had two or more pesticides present, and one major American city even had three!
Of course, that's not the whole story. The way we purify our municipal water in this country is at least fifty to one hundred years old, yet most of the pollutants we're trying to get rid of were invented in the past thirty years.
Even our method of purification--the use of chlorine--is highly suspect, and some scientists even think that it's this very chlorine that has given rise to the dramatic cancer rates we now have.
There's Nothing Like It!
I hope you're convinced of the need for shower head water filters on all your home showers.
So, now comes the best part. Showering in filtered water is like no other experience you can imagine. (Well, it might be, but I'm not allowed to write about that here!)
To learn more about shower head water filters visit my website!
R. Lee Cole is an avid health and exercise enthusiast who loves to make his research available to everyone via the Internet. Check out Lee's website for more information about this important topic.
Long Stucco CrackIf you're thinking about doing some renovations or redecorating in your home, you may be feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of having to decide which changes to make, and then find a reputable contractor to do the work. Have no fear, as there is a new branch of home improvement specialists whose job it is to assist you with your renovation project.
Known as remodeling coaches or house therapists, these professionals are often former contractors who have decided to utilize their skills in a whole new way. They guide homeowners through the renovation process from beginning to end, and act as a liaison between homeowners and laborers who are working on the project.
Acting as an intermediary between homeowners and contractors is a very beneficial role that remodeling coaches play because they're intimately acquainted with the construction process. They're better able to translate the homeowners' goals to the contractors, and in turn, better communicate to the homeowners what their expectations should be regarding the time, cost, and finished look of the project. Having someone who is able to 'speak both languages' can help immensely in clearing up any misunderstandings or conflict that comes up during the renovations.
In addition to making the communication process smoother between owner and contractor, house therapists are also available to help couples work out their own conflicts about a remodeling project.
Renovations are difficult, and can put a lot of strain on the people living in the home. It's important that couples are in agreement about the direction that their renovation projects should take. If one party feels like their views aren't being heard or respected, conflict can result, which only makes the process of remodeling more challenging. This is why having a third-party on hand can help.
House therapists are not only well-versed in the art of construction, but they can also lend an impartial ear to couples who are in disagreement over changes in the home. A house therapist can help feuding couples set remodeling priorities based on cost vs. benefit, rather than on personal preference.
This is an important function of a coach because in a buyers' market, homeowners need to make smart decisions about how much to invest in renovations and decide which projects take precedence over others. It can be overwhelming for homeowners to know what to do-whether it's to fix up the kitchen, or expand the master bedroom. This is where a house therapist can help. They can quickly turn a mountain into a molehill, and make the homeowners' decisions that much easier.
In addition to helping homeowners prioritize their home improvement projects, remodeling coaches can also help people create realistic budgets and project timelines. They can also screen potential contractors for the job, watch that the project progresses in a timely fashion, and make sure that the workmanship is up to par.
A house therapist can make all the difference between a home improvement nightmare and a successful renovation.
For information about Minnesota lofts and condos, go to MinnesotaLoftsAndCondos.com. There you'll find Minnesota property listings including homes for sale in St. Paul, Minneapolis, and surrounding areas.
Exposed Wall Wire MeshThere are hundreds of different types of kitchen tables available; this can make it very difficult to choose the right one to fit in with your kitchen design.
The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in your house, especially if you have young children. And kitchen tables will be used for a number of different purposes, children will do their homework on them and you might meet your friends around the tables. Of course you will also dine at them!
If you have bothered to invest the time and money required to renovate your kitchen then you should also consider choosing kitchen furniture that looks the part and is very comfortable. Think about how many people you will need to fit around the table on a regular basis, and how much room do you have to fit a table in? If you have lots of room then you might want to consider the variety of kitchen tables that expand to cater to more people. A quick Internet search will find you plenty of these to look at.
There are loads of different designs of kitchen tables available, as well. Anything from granite tables, farmhouse tables and breakfast tables are being made. It's important to spend time choosing the right furniture so that it fits in with your design.
You need to create an area for seating in your kitchen, which can become an inviting place for people to gather and eat. Making sure that you can fit the kitchen table in is very important. Nobody would want to purchase a table that is too big or too small.
Farmhouse tables are very old fashioned and provide a great rugged look which suits large country homes. You could use chairs, which have cushions to make them more comfortable. These are suitable for use in Tuscan kitchen designs, French country designs, and rustic kitchen designs.
Another type of table is a bistro table; this is a much smaller table that normally has metal legs and a glass top. However some can also be found in wood, which is often less expensive.
Another option would be to include a breakfast nook in your kitchen; this is a smaller area, which has just enough room for your table. These areas are becoming more popular because they are cozy and very inviting and intimate, even in large kitchens. The design of this area can be done in such a way to make it even more special and welcoming. Kitchen tables are a vital part of any kitchen design; therefore it's important to make sure you know exactly what you are purchasing.
Many people like the material of granite to be used in their kitchens; this is particularly good if you use granite worktops in your kitchen. These are very durable and have a beautiful finish that can be used for many different purposes. Some of these tables even come with drawers, which is great additional storage space. Granite is popular because it can handle heat from saucepans and hot dishes.
Author Jennifer Akre, owner of many sites dedicated to indoor and outdoor home decor product and information, provides online consumers with advice on purchasing couture coffee tables and alluring accent tables that will make any room feel special
They say a man's home is his castle and since it's where we spend most of our hours away from work, it should be one that we're always looking forward to come home to. Whether it is a two-story Victorian, a hillside hideaway or a cozy beachfront bungalow, our homes should be a reflection of ourselves and our character. Also, it should be an embodiment of what we perceive to be the ideal hideout from the pressures and chaos of the outside world.
A person's home should be a place of relaxation and bliss, relatively free of the stresses of day to day living. It is where we spend our time unwinding and meditating and it is where we wake-up to the light of a new day- gathering energy for the activities that await us.
There comes a time when people get bored with the appearance of their homes. Maybe the paint starts to peel, or the plumbing starts to drip. In any case, when our haven from the pressures of the outside world ceases to be a place of Zen and becomes a source of angst in itself, it might be time to consider a few changes and doing a home renovation.
Renovation is the most practical thing to do for homeowners who've had their dwellings for quite a few years. Times are harder nowadays and unless you're one of the lucky few who have extra dough, it doesn't really make sense to sell the home you've become attached to and purchase a new one.
If what's bugging you is just a drippy faucet or a few stains on a wall, you can certainly grab a monkey-wrench or a paintbrush and save yourself some money. If it's something bigger like a new all-around color scheme, an overhaul on the plumbing or actual remodeling, you might still be able to do it considering you've had experience in those things. Otherwise, it's wiser to hire the services of a contractor to avoid making costly mistakes and irreversible damage to your castle.
Contractors have years of experience and expertise on anything you might want to have done. There are general contractors and there are those that do specific tasks: roofing contractors, plumbing contractors, painting, etc. All that you need to do is sit down with one recommended by someone you trust and tell them what you have in mind and how much you're willing to spend.
There are several things folks should look into when having major home renovation done. The first thing obviously, is your budget. It wouldn't make sense to start a major remodeling project only to stop halfway because you've run out of funds. Have a realistic figure on how much you can spend and how much you want done.
When it comes to remodeling and renovation, it's also important to know exactly what you want from the beginning. It's ultimately better to have a clear picture of what your goals are and do your planning from there rather than decide on what you want along the way.
Having a timeframe on how much the project is going to take will also help you manage the adjustments your family has to make. Timing is a big issue when it comes to construction and it's best to plan around holidays, celebrations and family gatherings to avoid unnecessary headaches.
During these tough financial times, home renovation is the better way to go if you want to address problems of wear and tear, increase the value of your home, or just change the appearance of your dwelling and make it more pleasurable to live in.
Jo is a writer for 'EBL Group Limited' (http://www.eblgroup.co.uk), a family managed, established and recommended house insurance repairs outworker stationed in Runcorn Cheshire. If you need insurance building repairs as a result of storm, flood, fire, malicious or fortuitous damage or any other reasons or if you have home and buildings improvement requirements then you should check out EBL Group.
If there was a contest to determine the most popular business in Malaysia, mortgage lending could certainly compete. Just about any institution with cash i.e. banks, or access to someone else's cash i.e. insurance companies, wants to be in the residential lending game. It is a fact one can easily confirm with a quick glance at the local newspapers. You will see pages after pages of mortgage lending offers.
There are many lenders in the market, and the first time apartment buyer should talk to as many people as possible. The reason for this is to find the best mortgage lending offers available. In additional to the newspaper, good mortgage lending offers can also be found in the yellow pages, real estate directory and by asking real estate lawyers, real estate brokers and agents, and people who have bought apartments recently.
For many years the best known mortgage lenders were Malaysian local banks such as Maybank, Public Bank and Hong Leong Bank. In the recent years, the insurance companies have jumped on the mortgage lending business bandwagon. Even tough the insurance companies are not primarily in the mortgage business, they have managed to packaged mortgage plan bundled with their insurance product. In some cases, first time apartment buyers can obtain access to insurance funds only through mortgage bankers and mortgage brokers.
Mortgage bankers are individual and organizations who loan their own funds and the funds of others to real estate purchasers. Once a mortgage is made, the mortgage banker typically sells the loan to an investor. A mortgage broker, unlike a mortgage banker, does not have capital to lend but instead loans money that belongs to others. He makes his money on fees, charges and points. In addition, a mortgage broker may also service loans.
Just like in any country, to finance an apartment purchase in Malaysia can be a daunting task. A typical mortgage payment term for the average Malaysian is from 15 to 30 years. The best thing for a new apartment purchaser to do is to get advice from the right people before signing on the dotted line of a mortgage agreement.
Will Yap is a niche property investor and the owner of http://www.Cyberjaya-Apartment.com The website http://www.Cyberjaya-Apartment.com was created to provide information on fully furnished and comfortable apartment rental in Cyberjaya, Malaysia.
Wood Shingle Moisture ProblemStair building tips for installing lights and decking, handrail tips and some deck advice.
For more helpful home improvement information visit: http://www.gregvan.com
Home Selling BooksResidential contractors are general contractors whose specialization is building residences such as houses, apartments and condominiums. They coordinate and supervise the work at construction sites from beginning to end. They usually work independently or have their own companies but may also be employed by property owners and developers. However, residential contractors may also be assigned to oversee the construction of commercial buildings but rarely take projects as large-scale as bridges, sewage systems and industrial structures. Residential contractors like any contractor need to study the specifications of the project to be able to give clients accurate estimations.
Residential contractors must be hands-on from start to finish on their projects. They hire other contractors, subcontractors, equipment and workers needed for the construction. However, there are several residential contractors who are already established that own the equipment they use and have workers employed exclusively for their projects. They are usually the front liners in all aspects of construction and contact other companies for the different materials needed such as concrete, steel, electrical equipment, and lumber, among many others.
To become a residential contractor you have to get a degree in construction science, construction management, and civil engineering to name a few. Other courses and continuing education are available from colleges and universities such as site planning, design, construction methods, contract administration, business and financial management, and information technology, among many others. You should have at least five years experience in this field as an assistant or an employee of residential contractors or developers. Many states also require you to be licensed and have the necessary certification, mastery and experience in your specialization.
Residential contractors must also ensure the safety of the people working for their project and must have the physical stamina to be always present during construction. In addition, they must also have the intelligence and skills to immediately solve problems that may occur within the site. The usual problems that may occur are emergencies caused by the weather and accidents as well as those involving supplies and manpower. As a residential contractor you have to follow the contract to the letter especially when it comes to the quality required for the project.
Residential contractors may experience a lot of stress and tension which usually come with the job. The environment is usually dirty, noisy and hazardous, and the hours are unpredictable. They usually work 24/7 until the project is done. Even though the job can be very taxing, a residential contractor's job can be very fulfilling because the average annual salary for this field is around $62,000. The salary can be higher if they will be working on bigger projects within the year.
Ashley Conner is a writer for Zipcodez.com, a widely-used local business listings search portal. Zipcodez.com also features an efficient job, movie, and restaurant search covering over 100 major cities nationwide. Ashley has covered useful topics and resources from "Arts & Entertainment" to "Wireless & Telecommunications" for Zipcodez.com. You can easily find out what convenient and useful resources are in your neighborhood by visiting http://www.zipcodez.com
Stair ProblemIf you're like most people who enjoy doing home improvement projects, you have supplies and materials scattered all over the house and yard, just waiting to be used. Maybe you come across a great sale on materials you know you'll need for a future project, or maybe you started too many projects at once. Whatever the reason, you now find yourself swimming in home improvement materials, and this can often be quite frustrating.
You don't want to throw any of the materials out of course, because it all has a specific home improvement project it's needed for. So the best option is to simply give it a special storage space, and keep it more organized and out of the way.
And an excellent way to do this is to simply use outdoor storage sheds. Now, depending on how many different home improvement projects you have underway at once, you might need to get a larger storage shed so you'll be able to clear out the garage clutter along with all the other places in your home which are currently housing project materials.
Once you decide on the size and type of shed you'll need, simply pick a spot for it and get it put into place. Whether you build the shed yourself from basic plans or a ready-made kit doesn't matter, you can even have the pre-built shed delivered and set up for you to save time. The next step is organizing your shed.
Now you can organize your project shed similar to the way hardware stores organize their shelves if you'd like. In other words: All wood pieces go in one area, all nails in another, and so on.
Alternatively you can organize your materials based on project instead. This way when you're ready to start a new project, you'll have everything needed for that one project right on hand in one convenient location.
Remember to keep all of your every day tools in an easily accessible part of the shed too, so you can get them when needed and put them away when you're finished.
If your house or backyard are crying out for some organizing, take a look at these Arrow storage sheds - they are spacious, inexpensive, and easy to assemble.
Commercial Property WindowsAdmit it-you may do the home remodeling or the room addition on your own, but if you want to have perfect home renovations, you'd certainly look for a general contractor. He doesn't only have the skills, but he also possesses the experience to make sure that the project is going to be successful. But how do you exactly look for one, especially online?
1. Check out different general contractor websites. There are a variety of general contractor sites that you can find in the World Wide Web. Members are usually professionals who have experience in home renovations and home construction.
2. Sign up for membership. There are some sites that may require your membership first before you can fully make use of their list of general contractors. Normally, they don't require any upfront fee, so you can definitely sign up. Make sure that every mandatory field is filled out and that the information are all true. They will be used to communicate with your prospective general contractors.
3. Post your project. Whether it's a kitchen remodel or a bath remodel, post your projects. This way, you will be able to attract the attention of the right general contractor. Now, it's very important that you will screen every applicant. They may all have the experience and the technical skills, but there will always be one or two will qualify or satisfy your preference and your need.
4. Ask for portfolio, if they have any. When you're looking for credentials, make sure that you can include their portfolio, as well as references. You need them to confirm the information they have included in their profile.
When you have chosen the right general contractor for your home remodeling, make sure that you can keep all communication lines open. As a matter of fact, make it a habit to personally meet them and tour them to your home.
Do you want to save a lot of money on your general contractor for your home remodeling? You can look for the best handyman, home builder, or other professional for a home construction, or just a kitchen remodel or a room addition right at http://www.contractorjoint.com/
You don't need to pay for anything when posting your project. Furthermore, you can specify the job site and the category of your project, making it also easier for professionals to search for the right project for them.
http://freelancernetwork.org/ is another construction resource that has construction, home remodeling and bathroom categories. It is more concentrated in Programming, Web Design and SEO.
Basics Of Woodworking PlanesStucco Moldings (sometimes called Architectural Moldings) are a prime example of how new construction technologies such as EIFS are replacing conventional products. For the sake of clarity, the article is referencing "Synthetic Stucco", otherwise known as EIFS (Exterior Insulation Finish System). The advent and development of EIFS proven, over time, it's superiority to traditional building products in terms of moisture management, insulation and aesthetic value. Among the prime reasons for EIFS' aesthetic appeal is the use of Stucco Moldings -- moldings made of the same styrofoam core, fiberglass mesh and base coat as the EIFS wall itself. These products do not warp, bend, rot or crack, while providing the durability required by exterior building products. But how exactly do these products prove to be superior to existing ones?
For starters, a sill made with a styrofoam core is much, much lighter than a pure concrete sill. This lighter weight results in less structural stress on the wall cladding, allowing you to place the concrete sill in more locations without worrying about the underlying support structure. Where an architect may need to consider the weight of a 30 pound/foot concrete sill, a comparable Stucco Molding might weigh in at about 3 pounds/foot, meaning less work for both the architect and the workers on site. Additionally, Stucco Moldings are manufactured in 8-foot lengths as opposed to 4-foot concrete sills. The manufacturing process provides superior turn around, as more pieces can be made simultaneously, and the flexibility of making faux-concrete-sills in custom profiles.
Because of it's light weight, the product is much easier to transport and install. Concrete sills require flatbed trucks with specialized unloading equipment in order to get to a site, as well as surcharges due to the extreme weight, whereas Stucco Moldings may be transported in any vehicle long enough to fit them, and weight need not be considered. On top of simply transporting, Stucco Molding's light weight makes it easier to unload and install, it can be unloaded and moved to the locatino of installation by hand, removing the need for a forklift and multiple men. The 8-foot length (as opposed to 4-foot) mean less painstaking joining work where the ends butt up against one another, cutting the labor for finishing work nearly in half.
It is no surprise then that Stucco Moldings come in at giant savings to contractors and installers. The lighter weight results in quicker and easier manufacturing, transporting and installing, while the longer length means less handling and less touch up work. It is not uncommon for the product itself to be anywhere from 50% to 25% of the price of concrete sills and provide a 75% to 90% reduction to transportation and installation charges.
Hanging on to the way your father and your father's father and so forth did their job is a recipe for disaster in modern day. New construction technologies such as Stucco Moldings save not only time and money, but also provide additional design options not previously available, making architects and building owners happy. What this means is that if you don't have the foresight take advantage of the better products now available, your competition will and gain the advantage of happier customers, lower costs and higher profits.
Jim Schwarznoff has taken courses in Classical Architecture and Building Sciences as a part of his Bachelor of Applied Technology in Construction Science and Management. For more information on Stucco Moldings and concrete sills, visit http://www.decoramould.com/
A new kitchen is one of the most rewarding projects you can begin on your home. After all, your kitchen acts as the heart of your home. It is where family meeting occur; homework sessions are held; and holiday celebrations happen. More memories are made in your kitchen than any other room.
Unfortunately far too many people begin this project without seriously thinking of everything involved. First of all, redesigning your kitchen is an expensive venture. Any changes or mistakes can end up costing you a lot of money. It isn't a simple and cheap fix to switch from a run-of-the-mill stove to a soapstone stove. You better have a plan of action.
Here are some of the more common mistakes people make when remodeling their kitchen:
Mistake: Over-customizing and No Flexibility
Difficult and over specialized items can be a nightmare for both you and the contractor. Not only are some items expensive, but they are also difficult and time consuming to replace. Replacing a granite counterop to soapstone slabs or soapstone blocks costs money. Unless money isn't an issue, it is wise to remain flexible regarding materials and the design for your new kitchen.
Mistake: Changing Plans
Changing the kitchen design plans once the work has started is never a good thing. Most of the materials have already been ordered and the measurements calculated. If you are unsure of going with a soapstone stove, don't order it until you are certain you love the look of soapstone stoves. It will make things much easier for you and your contractor.
Mistake: Allowing A Designer to build Your Kitchen with No Input
It isn't uncommon for a designer's taste to vary from your own ideas on what you want your kitchen to look like. By not expressing what you want, you probably won't be very happy with the finished results. If you love the look of soapstone or want a soapstone counter, tell the designer so in the beginning. Work with your designer and stay involved throughout the entire process.
Mistake: Spending Too Much Money on a Project
The average kitchen makeover adds only 8% to the market value of your home. Never invest more than 20% of its current market value. While you may love the idea of adding soapstone slabs or soapstone blocks, if you don't have the extra money for it, I would try another idea or make cuts in the projects somewhere else.
Mistake: Spending It All In One Place
One of the most common mistakes is not planning the budget well enough to cover unforeseen expenses. Circumstances pop up during your project from time to time. While you love soapstone and have your heart set on a soapstone counter, the manufacturer may be out. You now need to come up with a Plan B. The general rule for a remodeling project is to plan for 80% of budget should go to the remodeling itself and rest for unforeseen circumstances.
Anne has worked on many home improvement projects with a soapstone counter. Her specialties are redesigning ordinary kitchens into the extraordinary using soapstone slabs and soapstone blocks.
Flooring BooksThe cost of everything is rising higher than ever before, especially energy costs. Because of this trend, it seems as if everyone is becoming more energy conscious everywhere. Your office space should be on that list, too. Doing a little bit can save a lot of money in the long run. Read these twelve energy saving tips that cam make a big difference in the cost of running your business.
If you are not using it, turn it off.
For more energy saving tips, visit PWA Engineering at 757/366.5325. PWA are the experts in power, water and air conversation.
Karen Vertigan Pope writes for Ciniva Systems, an award winning Virginia web design company. Ciniva specializes in web design and SEO. Ms. Vertigan Pope is an SEO Specialist with Ciniva. Ciniva Systems is in charge of SEO for PWA Engineering.
Stucco Wall With T1 11 GableIt is essential for anyone thinking of replacing there windows to know which company will provide the best service. There are many quality UPVC specialists that can offer a professional service for persons looking for windows Cardiff, Newport and South Wales in general. However, it is still advised to research before you settle for a company for definite.
Many people are now choosing to have UPVC windows in their home because they are not only more resistant, they help reduce the loss of heat, easy to clean and long lasting. With doors available to match the windows to truly make your house look how you want it. Specialists in UPVC windows have the knowledge to be able to advise you on the type of windows and doors that would be best for your home. Knowing designs and colours that could suit your home, UPVC professionals are the best option to have to ensure you get what you pay for.
There are a wide variety of options open to anyone look to change to UPVC windows, but there are two distinct styles that are available form some UPVC specialists.
Ovolo - curved to the window frame edge
Chamfered - lines across the pane
These are two types of style and both give a different feel to a home but both as equally charming as each other. Choosing your windows is like choosing your dcor, you need the one which will reflect you and your home, but unlike the inside of your home, you windows will be admired by anyone that passes. Depending on what you have in mind, either of these will be suitable for any home and still give a classic, professional look from inside and out. However whatever the windows, a quality company will make sure this is the case.
Written by Jenny Pilley member of CReare Communications SEO specialists, on behalf of Peter Fennell of Windows Cardiff specialists
For many years, hot tubs and home spas were the exclusive luxuries of the wealthy. They were expensive to buy, expensive to operate and not very reliable. With the onset of better manufacturing and better materials, and lower prices, however, the popularity of hot tubs and home spas began to soar.
Spas Throughout History
History gives us many examples of spas being used as integral parts of life for many civilizations. The Romans are perhaps the most famous for their bathhouses, which became centers of social life and a common daily activity for the elite classes. Other cultures made use of spa-like hot baths as well, including the ancient peoples of China and Japan.
What did these civilizations know that others didnt? Setting aside technological differences, some of the earliest spa enthusiasts appreciated the health benefits of using hot water to relax the body, open the pores of the skin, and generally promote better health. Cleanliness was considered healthful and a sign of prosperity after all, you had to be pretty well off to afford the bath facilities themselves and to have the leisure time to partake of their benefits.
Hot Tub Hydrotherapy
As medical science has advanced, there has been an increased awareness of the benefits of hot tub hydrotherapy. Many medical conditions, injuries and other health problems can be eased or improved with regular hydrotherapy treatments.
For example, people with arthritis, multiple sclerosis, paralysis and other conditions that involve deteriorating range of motion benefit from time spent in a hot tub. The warm water helps ease aches and pains, while loosening joints and making them easier to move and keep mobile.
Joint problems, chronic back pain and other painful conditions resulting from injuries are also helped with regular hot tub hydrotherapy. Those seeking stress relief, general relaxation, and quiet opportunities for conversation commonly experience significant hot tub benefits as well.
Modern Spa and Hot Tub Hydrotherapy
Modern technology, materials and production processes make it possible to design and build home spas and hot tubs with highly specialized hydrotherapy features. These features are typically based on a combination of seating position, jet position and jet function. Lets look at each of these aspects in turn.
Seating Position Traditional hot tub seating was bench-style, typically in a round shape and at a uniform depth so that everyone sat at the same level in the tub. This made it challenging for people of different heights to fully benefit from hot tub therapy.
With the development of molded fiberglass spa shells came the development of different shapes and sizes of seats. Manufacturers began to include lounge seats, where the bather reclines in the water, as well as seats to accommodate bathers of different heights. Some also included deeper seats, designed to fully immerse the bather and allow placement of jets in specific positions for specific benefits.
Jet Position Moldable shell manufacturing made it possible for the first time to place jets in nearly any position within the tub. Manufacturers began experimenting with placing jets in places where they would focus on specific areas of the body, such as the back, neck, shoulders, arms and legs.
The earliest jets were single-action nozzles with limited ability to adjust where they were aimed or the intensity of the jet action. This made it difficult to use them in positions where they would affect more tender areas of the body, such as wrists, forearms, ankles, feet and knees. As manufacturers developed more advanced jets with a wider variety of functionality, though, the technology of hydrotherapy advanced significantly.
Jet Function Modern hot tubs and spas can be customized with a surprising variety of jets that range from multi-purpose to highly specialized. Buyers often are able to select exactly which jets to install in specific locations within their hot tub or home spa.
The most common types of jets available today include:
Swirl jets water swirls in a circular pattern, with a massaging action that covers a wide area
Whirlpool jets a large, round jet that concentrates pressure in a specific area
Mini jets smaller than standard jets, they are often grouped together in clusters, especially in massage and therapy seats
Pillow jets combines massaging action for the neck with a pillow designed to let the bather rest their head without going under water
Shoulder jets positioned above the water line to focus attention of specific parts of the shoulder
Moving massage jets this oval-shaped jet moves back and forth in a sweeping motion to provide pulsating therapy
The benefits of different jet types have grown substantially with the development of independent seating control. In older spas and hot tubs, one set of controls ran all of the therapy jets, but independent seating control allows each bather to control the strength and intensity of therapy in their own individual seat.
Hydrotherapy for Fitness
The latest technology in hydrotherapy involves using jetted tubs for fitness purposes. This new generation of home spas is elongated in shape and allows the bather to choose traditional spas functions or switch over to functions that allow for a vigorous workout. They are commonly referred to as swim spas.
A swim spa has powerful jets that set up a strong resistance current that allows the user to swim as if in a full sized lap pool. The elongated shape allows even the tallest people to stretch out into a full-length stroke and the center depth is such that even a full arm extension will not bump into the bottom of the spa.
Adjustable current jets make it possible to adjust workout intensity depending on the users fitness level, and increase intensity over time as the level of fitness improves.
Summary
Spas and hot tubs have been around in one form or another for centuries, but only in the last few decades have technology, materials and manufacturing improved to the point where a home spa is affordable enough and reliable enough to be within reach of most people.
Hot tub hydrotherapy is one of the most popular and effective ways to treat a wide variety of medical conditions, injuries, or simply promote relaxation and stress relief. Once you have experienced the benefits of a home spa or hot tub, you will wonder how you ever lived without one!
Julie Ann-Amos is a freelance writer for Hot Tubs 'N Home Spas.com, providing consumer information onportable hot tubs and home spas. She has reviewed dozens ofhot tubs and home spas and contributed articles on choosinghot tub spa enclosures and gazebos.Copyright 2005 Hot-Tubs-N-Home-Spas.com
Permission is granted to publish this article on your site only if the author's byline is included and all 3 links are hyperlinked.
Lately with the uncertainty of the current economic environment in home improvement, I have noticed contractor hardship and complaints. Times are tough for both the home repair contractor and homeowner. However, there is always room for a contractor that is willing to bend with the ebb and flow this economy throws at us. Oh, I remember the times of plenty in the 1990's money flowed like nobody's business. Of course, like all things, it ends.
Today's economy is a different animal that needs taming. There are ways to stay afloat as a small home improvement company and is accomplished by bending with the economy. What do I mean by that? Well, I mean be prepared to work a little harder and a little longer for a little less. What this will do is establish you in the community as a fair contractor willing to work with the homeowner.
Let us take web development as an example. Some of the sites you join at the time have a low page rank. However, you know the content is great and in your opinion in time this site will come into its own and you will reap the benefits of that website. I know web development examples are a stretch from home improvement. On the other hand, is it?
The present day economy suggests attacking business from all directions. You will need to spend time advertising to the potential client along with paying attention to the economy and the economical conditions. Times are tough, and money is hard to come by. Work with potential clients. Go the extra mile, separate yourself from the pack and become a good reference. In my humble opinion I have laid out a few steps below that I hope helps you in your endeavor.
1: Work on your advertising presence.
2: Watch your pricing.
3: Do not promise what you cannot deliver. (The last thing you need is to get a chance at a sale and overstate yourself)
4: Make your first shot your best. Put your best foot forward.
5: Work Hard!
These pointers should be obvious. Remember the homeowner wants the best for themselves and they should expect that. So Do it! Soon the economy will recover. When it does and if you have applied yourself, the work will come. With it, you will realize a feeling of accomplishment.
Take 2 minutes to tell us about your project on-line and we will schedule a free estimate with our qualified Home Improvement contractors. Our free service works for you! Visit us at: http://www.HomeRepairNet.com and http://www.HomeRepairNetPro.com
If you live in a moist climate in the winter and a dry climate in the summer and you have exterior wood beams exposed to these elements. You could develop wood beam problems over time. If wood beams are properly maintained and painted often they could last for a long time. Wood beams can last many years if properly taken care of.
Exterior wood beams that are used to hold up roofs, patios and decking can suffer from wood rot if not taken care of. Let's take for example a wooden beam located in a patio holding up a section of a large roof. The span of the roof being is only 10 feet long. As we look at the exterior wood beam. We noticed the upper corner of the beam is soft and rotted.
The beam damage is roughly the size of a baseball. The wood beam itself is a 6 x 10. Do we need to replace this beam even though the damage is not real big. The answer to this question is yes, any amount of damage to a wood beam takes away from its structural strength.
If you have a wood beam holding up the roof and the beam fails you could end up replacing a large section of your roof as well as the damaged beam. Replacing the damaged beam is usually a difficult task. The beam is usually sandwiched between two walls and will have siding or stucco around it.
If you're lucky enough to have the wood beam sitting in a saddle or on top of a wood post this will make your job easier and will require less skill. If however the beam is located between two walls this will require shoring up the roof and removing the beam.
Beam replacement should be left to professionals. This is not often as easy as it looks and could create a safety hazard if not done properly. I have seen beams replaced by homeowners or handyman and the damage that was done after the repairs, was worse than just leaving the beam alone in the first place.
The biggest problem with exterior wood beams is that they are usually holding up large amounts of weight. If the beam is removed without the proper bracing and shoring of the roof or floor area you could have a larger problem than you started with.
Exterior beams over time seemed to develop large cracks or splits in dry weather. These large cracks and splits weaken the structural strength of the beam adding more stress to the beam itself leading to structural failure eventually.
Extreme climates where temperatures very over 40 in one day seem to suffer the most damage to exterior wood beams that are not properly maintained. Beam maintenance will require painting and keeping moisture away from them.
Be aware of structural beams in or around your house. A little painting now and then can save you thousands of dollars over the life time of your house.
Greg Vanden Berge has been in the home building and remodeling business for over 30 years. With this knowledge he has created a few websites that provide useful information for home owners as well as contractors. His main goal is to educate professionals in the home related businesses, dealing with problems that can easily be avoided with just a little bit of information
His website http://gregvan.com provides all kinds of answers to remodeling and new house building issues that could create major damage as well as possible damage to your pocket book
Visit us now for Vista Home Improvement
Walkways BooksThe family room or big room is where we spend most of our leisure time when we are at home. It should at once accommodate plenty of seating so our friends and family will be comfortable hanging out with us there, and it should reflect our habits and hobbies. When considering the family room for home redecorating we should take into account how we want the room to reflect our lifestyle and help us create harmony in our lives and the lives of our family members.
Family Room Functionality
Before you decorate the family room, think about what you want to do in your family room and the best arrangement for you furniture. Is it your home theater? Do you prefer to position the large screen T.V. in the middle of the room as a central focus, with all seats facing towards it? Or do you prefer to move the T.V. off in a corner to allow plenty of room for the kids to spread out their toys and run around during the day. Perhaps you wish to create a quiet corner for the T.V. that represents a retreat for you after you pick up the toys and put the kids to bed.
If you keep a computer in the family room, you might want to create a computer nook, or a video game nook. This allows someone to be at the computer, or playing a video game while someone else in the family chooses to watch television. You could make use of a set of headphones too so that the noise in each corner is contained under a headset.
Family Room Lighting
Lighting is important for the interior decorating of a room and the atmosphere it creates. If your family room serves as a home theater or video game room most of the time, you might like more muted lighting and heavy drapes that can close out the glaring sun. Your home redecorating choices can include darker colors and heavier textures. If your family room is more of a playroom, or a social room for friends to gather, then you might like to adjust your family room dcor to accommodate plenty of light and use sheer, airy curtains that let in the sun, with Venetian or wooden blinds that can be let down at night to create privacy.
Family Room Atmosphere
Decorate your family room in a style that works for your lifestyle. The atmosphere you create will be a product of the home redecorating theme you use in your family room. You can scatter it with toy building blocks or scented candles, and you have one big, sectional sofa that dominates the room or several conversational areas made up of individual recliners, and small chairs. Create a formal look with wall-to-wall carpeting, or a polished wooden floor with a luxurious, wool area rug. Create a more casual family room decor with tiled or vinyl floor strewn with braided throw rugs. Of course the age of your family members will play a large part in the flooring decision. Let your lifestyle influence ideas for interior decorating your family room. Let the decor reflect the ages of your family members, and your combined hobbies and interests. When every member of the family can find their own space in the room, it will truly live up to its name, and bring the family together.
See our blog at 2 LEFT THUMBS for hints and tips on home improvement, remodeling, decorating and maintenance. We also have articles on home decorating, home remodeling, home maintenance and home improvement at 2 LEFT THUMBS DECORATING.
Drywall Ceilings Water DamageWe previously explored roofing options such as asphalt shingle and ceramic tile, weighing the pros and cons of each. Considering the importance of a well-functioning roof, we will continue the discussion of roofing options here.
Wood shingle is a relatively inexpensive option for roofing. First it might be helpful to distinguish the difference between shakes and shingles.
A shingle is cut with a saw, and has a smoother finish than a shake. Shakes are split, and the wood is more rippled. The rippling in shakes actually encourages water to run down them quickly.
Most often, cedar is the wood of choice for shakes or shingles. This is due to a naturally occurring oil in the wood that discourages rot and bugs, making it far longer lasting than other woods. Shingles and shakes can both be applied over old asphalt or cedar shingles. Shakes require an open sheathing underneath them, so that air can flow and dry any dampness in the shakes themselves. Because of their irregular surface, it is recommended that shakes be layered with a course of felt material, and on solid sheathing, which will fill in any gaps and completely weather-proof.
The only major con to shakes or shingles is that they are not fire-proof. Also, the water collected off them is undrinkable for up to 6 years because of the same volatile oil that deters bugs and rot. After six years, however, it is usable water. Cedar shakes or shingles can last up to 25 years.
Slate is another interesting, and very attractive, option for roofing. Slate's biggest downfall is its high expense. However it is extremely long lasting-a 100 year old slate roof is not uncommon. It is also fire-proof, rot-proof, and a very low maintenance roofing material in general, resistant to acid rain and fading. Also, because it is also all natural, collecting water from your slate roof is very viable.
Metal roofing is probably the most light-weight roofing option. The cost of metal roofing is moderate, about mid-range compared to the other options discussed. It can easily be installed on top of older roofing, and is known for being very low maintenance. Modern metal roofing is usually made of aluminum or a steel alloy. It is then coated with a rust-resistant coating, available in a variety of nice colors. The biggest caution is that this coating is not scraped off during the installation of your metal roof.
Written on behalf of the Orlando real estate team at OrlandoMLS.com. Visit them if you are looking for an Orlando Realtor, or want to search the Orlando MLS listings.
Drywalls are common finishes used in the interior of homes whether in New York, or other cities in the U.S. No modern home could ever have been built without it. Though the building material has been manufactured to be tough, it is still not totally safe from any damage. Different levels of finishing, thickness and treatments that come with it offer various levels of soundproofing, fire resistance as well as impact tolerance. The extent of the drywall repair will be dependent on the degree of damage.
Also known as gypsum board, any damage to it is commonly remedied through homeowners doing the drywall repair themselves or hiring a pro. Though both options do have their benefits, they also have drawbacks. So when faced with any damage, it pays to carefully consider which alternative is best for your circumstance.
DIY Drywall Repair
Other than saving on the overall cost of the project, what drives many homeowners to do things themselves is the feeling of satisfaction upon finishing off the task successfully. Resources on the topic are abundant and you can easily look up helpful articles ad instructional videos about it in the World Wide Web, and even offline through magazines and books. The task is fairly easy if you are dealing with minor drywall repair involving slight dents, or small holes.
Just like other home improvement and maintenance project, the problem you would have to face if you try to handle the drywall repair on your own is the risk. Without any experience and skill, the risk of committing any mistake and thus sacrificing the quality of the result is huge, especially in cases where the damage is extensive. So if you think you are not up to the job, then better let the pros handle the work.
Drywall Repair Specialist
The factor that makes many homeowners cringe at the thought of acquiring professional help is the cost of labor, making up for the considerable difference when you think about how much the materials would cost. A hired drywall repair specialist, though, would save you time which you could choose to spend doing more important things. Equipped with the right tools and quality materials, you would not have to bother rummaging through the shed to look for tools.
In areas where guests are entertained like the living area or the kitchen, it pays to maintain their attractiveness. The smallest flaw could really take a toll in the area's appearance, and what more if there is a gaping hole on the wall? With a drywall repair specialist to do the job for you, the project results would be seamless and noticeably better; and a lot faster letting you enjoy the results in the shortest wait.
Drywall repair takes some practice and ample skills to produce results wherein the damage would seem to not even have existed. So when faced with any drywall damage, you have to weight your options carefully. The thing that you think might save you more could even cost you more.
Eugene Makeev of Craftsmen Network helps New York home owners avoid the common pitfalls with Brooklyn, NY drywall installers by matching their needs with prescreened drywall contractors NYC.
Please feel free to use our drywall estimator.
Shower Dam FramingA deck is the most important aspect of a building. It enhances the beauty of a house. A deck is a flat extension area of a building, normally a floor, able to support weights. The deck is usually an outdoor area. The deck of the house is a wooden surface above the ground through which you can access the house.
This is a flat surface that is usually roofless but some buildings have decks with roofs. Without a deck, the house will be incomplete. These decks provide an excellent playing area for children.
Building a deck consists of several steps. This process involves good planning and an equally good execution. The plan will be helpful in the construction of the deck and to obtain the necessary approval from the municipal authorities.
The person who wants to construct a deck in his house can draw a plan on his own with suitable scaling. But, usually this is not recommended. The whole construction process depends upon this plan, so it is essential to have professional help.
While considering the deck layout, the doors of the house have to be kept in mind, since the accessing of the house is through the doors. The other important aspects to keep in mind are the house layout, the existing space outside the house, the grade of the yard and the existing trees or gardens. The decks have to be planned according to the local deck building codes.
The footings and the posts are very important in supporting the deck. The bigger the deck, the more you need the posts. The other important components are joists, decking and railings.
The most popular deck board sizes are 2' x 4', 2' x 6' and 5/4' x 6'. But all these sizes need the same amount of wood and the cost is also the same. The materials that are popular for building decks are redwood, cedar, and pressure treated pine. These woods are known for their moisture resistance. The appropriate railings can be attached to the decks.
Building a deck may sound quite simple with the availability of lots of do-it-yourself materials, but professional help is inevitable in case of any deck construction.
Decks provides detailed information on Deck Plans, Deck Builders, Pool Decks, Building A Deck and more. Decks is affiliated with Invisible Fences.
For years Brisbane utilized tile roofs, and when they first came out were a plausible option for a Brisbane homeowner. Since those times, nature has not been so kind to the clay and concrete tiled roofs. The natural composition of tiled roofs plays a huge factor in their early demise. Both clay and concrete tiles are very porous meaning water causes eventual wear and tear on them resulting in costly repairs. After rain, heat and throw in freezing, the tile roofing eventually cracks under the pressure. Water traps in the pores of the tiles and then when exposed to the heat of the sun bearing down on them, they dry out only to be followed up with repeated abuse of re-absorption of water through further rainfalls and cold and warm conditions. The repeated expanding and reduction effect due to environmental factors cause clay and cement tiles to crack and break. Broken tiles on a roof leave the rest of the home exposed to serious water damage.
Tiles admittedly give a home a quaint look, but their efficiency is less then desirable for any wise homeowner. Metal roofing offers a lot more in durability as well as being aesthetically pleasing to the eye. In looking at the environmental factor alone, metal-roofing pays for itself ten fold over in what it saves the consumer in repairs alone and is worth considering if you need a roof replacement.
Why Metal Roofing is a better alternative over old fashioned Title Roofing
Metal roofing can last the lifetime of a home. Repairs are minimal and are generally due to homeowner inflicted damage such as when attaching solar panels or other hardware on the rooftop. A metal roof is so durable it can withstand winds up to 190 kms per hour with no lift up. Even severe hailstorms cannot phase metal roofing, unlike the severe damage a hail or windstorm can do to tile roofing. Brisbane homeowners can even benefit from having a metal roof over a tile roof through insurance deductions, yet another cost effective reason to have metal roofing.
After a tile roof has been laid and finished it can still move as the house settles and as a result tiles can crack or cause the bedding to crack or even look crooked the naked eye. Unlike a tile roof, when you screw down a new metal roof you will find your new roof will not move. As a result your home will have better structural integrity.
Here's why Metal roofing is more durable than titled roofing
With metal roofing, you never have to worry about chipping, rusting, fading or chalking. The colours do not fade no matter how hard the sun beats down on the roof. The heat reflective facet of metal roofing saves the Brisbane homeowner money through its energy saving factor. Not only does a metal roof save a homeowner a ton of money they also come in a wide variety of colours and styles to meet any homeowners taste setting the home apart from the rest of the block.
Greg Hughey owns and operates Metal Technology Roofing a business dedicated to metal roofing and asbestos removal Brisbane.
Greg has over 25 years of hands on experience with metal roofing and understands the benefits of metal roofing over old fashioned tiled roofing.
Creating your own electricity and generating your own power has always been one of my dreams. Having a self sufficient home, not only a house that takes care of itself by generating its own electricity through windmills or solar panels but the satisfaction knowing that no matter what happens to the electrical companies you will always have electricity at your home.
What a wonderful feeling it would be to get a check back from the utility company instead of paying them every single month. I don't know about you but my utility bills are ridiculous and seemed to be going up in price constantly. I can't believe all the fees they have been charging for years to all of their customers. If you add all the fees for every person in the city or county this comes to a large, a very large number and it's getting worse not better.
Generating your own electricity with solar or wind power is definitely green thinking. This is going to be the wave of the future as fuel used to create electricity continues to rise in price. I really can't imagine what the price of electricity is going to be like in 10 years as the mass consumption continues to rise in developing countries.
We have got to start taking care of our own needs through solar or wind power. We have got to start creating our own electricity to become self reliant. The more self reliant we become as a nation the less dependent we will be on major corporations, especially large power conglomerates.
Creating our own electricity can also be used for electrical cars that can be purchased in the future. Think of the money you will say in fuel costs as the price of gasoline continues to increase as well as less pollution into our environment.
This is definitely the wave of the future and common sense tells us this. I suggest you read this article again if you haven't figured out some of the problems coming our way in the future.
Think green and together we can start saving the planet.
While searching for new alternatives and trying to get some advice on creating your own electricity I came across a book you can purchase in digital format. This book seems to have quite a bit of information on creating your own electricity for a totally self sufficient home.
This book has been created in digital format to reduce the consumption of trees and the waste involved in creating a regular book. What a wonderful idea for helping our environment in quite a few ways.
While searching for new alternatives and trying to get some advice on creating your own electricity I came across a book you can purchase in digital format. This book seems to have quite a bit of information on creating your own electricity for a totally self sufficient home.
This book has been created in digital format to reduce the consumption of trees and the waste involved in creating a regular book. What a wonderful idea for helping our environment in quite a few ways.
For more information visit http://www.gregvan.com and look for Get Earth4Energy Here Create your own electricity! Save 1000's with Earth4Energy
You have read so much about Feng Shui and you have begun to apply it to your spaces, your office, your desk, your bedroom...but, isn't there another place where you spend a lot of your time...especially during rush hour? Yes, you shouldn't forget to Feng Shui your car. Why would applying Feng Shui to your car be important?
People consciously or unconsciously judge our personality through our cars. Be honest, you do it too. If someone you are meeting arrives in a dirty car with "Wash Me" written on the window, your opinion of that person is affected at least a tiny bit, right? I once had a date with a terribly handsome guy, whom I'd only seen at friends' houses and other places. That day he came to pick me up in his car, and before I could get in he had to clear out a bunch of wrappers from the passenger seat and throw a couple of empty water bottles to the back seat, where they bounced on a pile of old newspapers. Once inside the car, I could smell the dirt, the cigarettes, the old hamburger wrapper that was hiding somewhere in there, and who knows what else. Suddenly, he didn't seem so handsome to me. Yes, the car can reflect our personality, or give the wrong idea of it.
But the negative energy of a car like the one I described, does not only affect a potential mate, it affects you, the driver, as well. Applying Feng Shui can increase your sense of clarity and protection, and even help prevent road rage by keeping you serene while you drive. The chi that flows within our car is created by the elements inside it, and we need to keep them balanced t contains to manage the positive or negative qualities and chi.
Where to start?
Wash your car. A dirty car would reject the positive flow of chi and that could affect you as well as your driving capabilities. Have not only a clean exterior, but a clear and clean interior as well. Clutter in your car is just as bad as clutter in your house, even worse, since the space is so much smaller. Chi should flow freely and positively. Keep unnecessary objects out of your car; the proper flow of chi will not only affect your personality in a positive way, but will also help you while driving.
The windows are the eyes of the car, so keep them very clean, insulated and in good condition. In Feng Shui, windows are supposed to give you a clear view of your path through life. Clean windows allow positive energy to enter from outside, and it also helps your visibility on the road.
The maintenance of your vehicle is very, very important, and I'm not only talking about Feng Shui here. Your car is an investment and you have to treat it as such. A well maintained car will give you peace of mind and a relaxed driving experience.
Check the electric system, the nervous system of your car.
Check the fuel lines and hoses and keep them clean, that's the digestive system of the car.
The heating and air conditioning systems are the respiratory system of the car, and if you keep them working efficiently, you will be saving a lot of money in the long run, and you'll be cool or warm when you need to be.
As the doors in your house, the car doors have to open freely. Avoid the frustration of having to struggle even before you start your trip.
Your car is not a trash can. Imagine the chaotic energy that old newspapers, wrappers, bottles, cans, old food and unpleasant smells can create? You've felt the difference in the energy of your car when it's just been washed and cleaned inside. Why do we like the smell and feel of a brand new car?
The best element for a car is water. Water is flowing, smooth and clear. You should carry a bottle of water in your car, and drink it if you're thirsty, not just leave the bottle there for the water to stagnate.
They say that sprinkling sea salt on the floor of your car can absorb negativity; just be sure to clean it out often. Other non-Feng Shui, but effective methods of clearing out negativity in your car include keeping a bundle of dried sage in the car. I like to use my favorite incense in my car, but I'm careful not to leave an overwhelming smell. That would work against me.
Dragons are very powerful figures in Feng Shui. They protect you and bring you luck, so place a small dragon sticker or picture somewhere inconspicuous in your car, or a small dragon figure or stuffed animal on the dashboard.
Even when you are traveling fast, it is a good idea to stay grounded. Stones and crystals are great for this purpose. Put a stone in your glove compartment or a crystal hanging from your rear view mirror. Remember to apply these principles to the place you keep your car in as well by using the ba gua. Don't you think that Feng Shui sounds a lot like common sense? Drive safely.
If you want to learn more about Feng Shui and find more very useful information, please visit me at http://www.lifewithfengshui.com
A couple of years ago, me and another contractor were working on a whole house remodel and this involved removing the exterior stucco on the home, so that we could install siding and stucco around the entire home. We had no plans to work on the master bedroom. These plans were changed after the stucco was removed, from behind the bathroom shower walls.
Even though we were remodeling the entire house, we were making a single story into a two story and it was a pretty extensive project. The homeowner had mentioned to us, that the bathroom was completely remodeled less than two years ago. Standing inside of the master bathroom, everything looked beautiful and in good shape. We were shocked to find the damage, only after we removed the exterior stucco and it was bad.
The water damage ruined the sub floor underneath the bathtub, the lower wall framing and even some of the plywood sheeting in the master bedroom. The homeowner needless to say was very unhappy with the additional expenses to the project, but nevertheless wanted us to remove and repair of the damage.
I want to make a very important point, whether you're a contractor, handyman or homeowner. All it takes is one small hole or a little crack to cause an enormous amount of damage in a short period of time. I have seen a hole the diameter of a triple a battery, ruined an entire ceiling. The water damage in this bathroom was caused from cracks in the grout and using a bathtub with no flanges. Always make sure you purchase the correct bathtub.
This damage could have been prevented by using an experienced contractor or the right parts. If the right tub would have been ordered, I would imagine that very little damage would have been done to the wood framing. Here's a little bit of advice from a building professional. If you're thinking about remodeling a bathroom yourself and have very little experience, I would advise you to find some helpful bathroom remodeling books or hire someone who knows what they're doing. Sometimes these books or contractors can save you more money in the long run.
Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He has just finished a Home Buyers Guide to take some of the frustration out of home shopping.
If your looking for some more bathroom remodeling or home building ideas.
Toilet Wall DamageA dry basement might be its own reward. If your basement is free of leaks, condensation and cracks, it'll be more amenable to a major basement remodeling effort (and you know you've always wanted a foosball table down there). It's a safer place to store old records and clothes (your kids need something to make fun of during your old age, right?). And a dry basement is inhospitable to toxic black mold, which can eat away at porous surfaces like wood and concrete, and cause serious health problems for you and your family.
While most of us might think of the underground sections of our homes as dark, dank places suitable for the third-act climax of a bad horror movie, avoiding a wet basement is probably easier than you think. Here are a few relatively simple steps to keeping your basement dry.
Make sure your rain gutters are completely free of debris. Rain gutters that can't carry rain away from the house tend to spill rain right out near the foundation, creating puddles that can eat away at the porous concrete over time. And if gutters empty themselves from a great distance in one spot, the falling water can create a depression in the ground that speeds wear and tear on the foundation. A good basement waterproofing contractor can install a French drain - a type of drainage system that draws water away from the house. A good French drain can't guarantee a dry basement, but it'll help eliminate one of the primary causes of leaks.
Keep the ground around your foundation sloped away from it. Obviously, this isn't the simplest thing to do; if you live on a hill, you're going to have to deal with water rolling downhill toward your home. But it's easy to find depressions near the foundation and fill them, so they don't fill with water when it rains.
Keep an eye on window and door seals. If these are caulked, go around at least once every six months with a caulk gun to reinforce them. Ideally, however, they should have a more secure sealant.
Keep a dehumidifier handy. If you hang clothes to dry in the basement, humidity might be a problem - and humidity in such an enclosed space can cause condensation. Keeping a dehumidifier isn't a magic bullet, but it can help if your basement moisture is coming from condensation and not seepage. But how can you tell the difference? It's fairly easy: If you have wet basement walls, find a spot that's particularly wet. Tape a section of aluminum foil to the wall, with tape around all the edges so it's airtight. Check in on it after a day or two: If the side on the inside is dry, you've got seepage. If the outside is dry, condensation is the more likely culprit.
If your house has an outdoor spigot, make sure it doesn't leak. A dripping spigot can create a concrete-eroding puddle with hardly any effort at all. If necessary, call a plumber to fix the leak - it'll be less expensive than repairing your foundation if the problem goes on too long.
Fix leaks the minute you discover them. You'll never have a dry basement if there's a constant leak. Basement moisture can come from a variety of sources; a leak has the benefit of being relatively easy to spot. A good basement waterproofing company can examine your basement to determine the type of leak you have, and recommend the best way to fix it. Look for a basement waterproofing contractor who gives a free estimate, and don't fall for any hard-sell tactics; a quality contractor will be completely honest, and give you time to make the best decision.
Kevin Ott writes on a variety of home improvement topics, including (but not limited to) mold removal and remediation. One of his clients is Right Way Waterproofing, one of the finest basement waterproofing contractors around.
Visit Right Way here:
Alright, it's not a news flash that the real estate market is in trouble, and people are not selling their homes just to buy something that strikes their fancies. With too many foreclosed homes, the value of your home has decreased and the occasion to put it on the market and get a new, grander, or better home with all the proceeds has disappeared. Don't sit there and grouse; be pro-active. Rekindle the love you once had for the home you now live in.
Remember the first time you walked through your house, and the ideas that came to mind of how you could decorate to suit your taste and make it a home. Maybe you thought the bay window would be the perfect location to build a window seat, or that the kitchen would look fantastic with new countertops. But, did you accomplish some of that? In most instances, the response is no. You moved in, life went on, but your house stayed the same. It is not surprising that it is boring to you.
Your budget is the first and best place to start. If you don't know the amount of money you have available, you are not going to be able to write a list.
Here is some advice for you to begin with and you can do this without using a large amount of money for remodeling.
1. Paint the interior a fresh hue, especially if you still have the original white walls. Select a muted, conservative color, then add complementary colors for accent walls. Use a consistent color scheme throughout your house.
2. Find some modern window treatments and remove those old fashioned mini-blinds from your home. Be certain that your windows are sparkling clean to allow nature's light to shine in.
3. Move your furniture around. Living rooms contain furniture that is hardly ever used, and it's usually in much better condition than what's in the family room. Move the furniture around and put beautiful slipcovers on the older items for a fresh appearance to match the new color design.
4. Add new boldly colored throw rugs and pillows.
5. Contemplate resurfacing the kitchen cabinets. Put on different hardware or add hardware if there is none on your cabinets. The effect is astounding, considering it is such a small change.
6. Update the light fixtures, and get rid of any long tube fluorescent lights you may still have. Be sure that the light fixture compliments the new hardware.
7. Contemplate replacing the tops of the counters with a granite slab or an artificial covering like Corian. This could take up a large percentage of your budget, so consider granite tiles for a dramatic, yet inexpensive, option.
8. Upgrade the lights in the bathroom, coordinate with new hardware and use a fresh color scheme for rugs, soap dish, towels, and other accessories.
9. Choose an alternative color for the master bedroom to make it stand out from the rest of your home. Get rid of the old drapes and bedding, selecting something that will give the room a fresh, new look.
10. Change the plants in your home. It is a must to get rid of those droopy plants; after all they are not animals, just vegetation.
That should get the creativity flowing. Soon you will remember why you love your home. But if you still want to move, it won't take long for you to get ready for that first "open house" when the market turns around!
Samuel Classing lives in a small housing community in the Valencia California real estate market. He and his wife enjoy hiking in the great outdoors and recently started making trips to Pine Mountain Club after hearing the winding mountain trails and scenic vistas. They now look Frazier Park real estate.
Home Owners Policy CoverSmoke, a harmful mixture of chemicals and toxins, is dangerous to your health and your property, and adds to the damage done to your property as the result of a fire.
Inhaling smoke is very damaging to your health, which is why fire departments help vent smoke from buildings.
Once the fire department has put out the fire and vented the building, their job is complete, and there is often a large mess left behind, including discoloration and corrosion of materials as well as pungent odors that may be difficult to eliminate from your home and belongings.
At this point, smoke restoration companies should be called for professional help. This clean-up job requires special tools and knowledge to prevent further damage and to restore the property.
The extent of smoke damage and the ease with which it is cleaned away is often based on the type of smoke in your home: wet, dry, protein and fuel-oil.
Wet smoke comes from low heat and is difficult to clean. Dry smoke results after a fast burning fire at high temperatures. Protein smoke is invisible, but discolors varnishes and has an extremely foul odor. Fuel-oil soot smoke is a result of a furnace malfunction.
Before the restoration professionals arrive, there are several things you can do to start the smoke removal process. Immediate action is important since many items in your home can be damaged by smoke, including electronics, clothing, upholstery and draperies.
First, open windows and turn on fans, if possible, to air out the home and begin to eliminate the remaining odor. This can also help dry out your carpets and other upholstered items that may have been water damaged by extinguishing the fire.
These tips will speed up the restoration process, too:
Do
Don't
ACCORD Restoration specializes in clean-up, repair, restoration and rebuilding after fires, floods, storms or natural disasters. We offer reliable, 24/7/365 emergency services carried out with expert craftsmanship.
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Drywall Termite DamageInjection waterproofing is often used to fill and seal cracks and crevices. The material is most often made from a polyurethane compound. The compound is lightweight and expands up to twice its original size when applied to a surface. Many non-toxic and environmentally safe products are available at home improvement stores nationwide. Injection waterproofing is used mainly in foundation crack repairs.
In most foundation cracks, a polyurethane injection can seal the opening. In some smaller cracks it may be apparent that a sealant was used because it may be difficult to evenly inject the compound. Single caulking style cartridges and the dual side-by-side cartridge systems are the types of injection waterproofing compounds available for retail purchase. Both of these are manually injected and easy to pump.
When using an injection waterproofing method, it is important to keep the area dry. Temporarily block any flowing water to the area, and clean and dry the area as needed. Experts say that in the case of water flowing through a hole, you can temporarily caulk the hole with candle wax, modeling clay or plumbers putty. If the cracks are in narrow or hard-to-reach places, you can use a flexible hose attached to the injector nozzle.
Whatever waterproofing system your leakage problem requires, be sure to do your research. If you choose to make this a do-it-yourself project, make sure you know where your leaks are coming from and the proper method to repair them. When purchasing waterproofing materials you should make sure you are buying the appropriate product for your needs. The National Association of Waterproofing and Structural Repair Contractors (NAWSRC) has tons of information on waterproofing. Whether or not you decide to hire a contractor, this organization can help you from beginning to end.
Waterproofing Info provides detailed information on waterproofing systems, including injection waterproofing, foundation waterproofing, concrete waterproofing, deck waterproofing, basement waterproofing, and waterproofing basement walls, as well as waterproofing contractors and consultants. Waterproofing Info is affiliated with Business Plans by Growthink.
Wood Window Sill DamageHome lighting is an essential part of home dcor, and needs to be considered carefully based on a variety of factors. First, home lighting is required for specific tasks, such as putting on makeup and shaving in the bathroom; or paying bills and writing letters in the office.
Other lighting illuminates a space, so that the kids can play or you can move about without bumping into objects. Finally, there is ambiance lighting, which may consist of a chandelier on a dimmer switch that can be adjusted for a romantic dinner or game time. It is important to consider these functions of home lighting when adding this element to your living space.
The good news is that no matter what type of lighting you are looking for, you can find a decorative way to bring that illumination into the room. While many homeowners limit decorative home lighting to lamps, you can also get style and function from decorative overhead fixtures and chandeliers.
Look for fixtures that will coordinate with the rest of your dcor, such as wrought iron for a rustic look or brushed nickel for a sophisticated, contemporary touch. Ceiling fans can provide double duty by offering air movement and lighting at the same time.
There are many attractive models of ceiling fans that will add to the style, from rustic designs for the log cabin to bamboo fans that bring the outdoors in.
Home lighting is an essential element to home dcor, providing style and function at the same time. The right home lighting will make all the difference in the comfort of your home.
Lighting by Gregory offers Hinkley Lighting brand lighting products at http://lightingbygregory.com/lighting/category/hinkley.html Billings Farnsworth is a freelance writer.
Well here's the age old question, how do we go about finding a decent bathroom remodeling contractor.
Here's some things you will be looking for in a contractor.
1. Is Your Contractor Fair and Honest?
2. Does Your Contractor Have Experience Remodeling and Designing Bathrooms?
3. Can You Actually Find a Contractor Who Will Complete the Job in a Timely Manner?
4. Do You Think the Workers Will Be Able to Clean the Job up Daily?
5. Will the Contractor Show up on Time?
6. Is the Contractor Going to Work At Least Eight Hours a Day?
7. Does the Contractor's Crew Have Experience?
8. Is Your Contractor and His Crew Courteous?
If you find a contractor for your bathroom remodeling project that has answered yes to all questions above, hire that person immediately. Most contractors can sincerely answer yes to half of the questions above. If you're looking for the ultimate bathroom remodeling contractor, you could be searching for quite a while, you're looking for some one that is competent and you feel comfortable with.
When hiring a contractor, look for someone who has your interest in mind first and not theirs. Find someone who is willing to help with the designed process of your bathroom and the remodeling. If you find a contractor to be arrogant or controlling, there is a good chance, your bathroom might not turn out the way you envision it.
When hiring a contractor for your bathroom remodeling project or any home improvement project, the most important thing to keep in mind is, whether or not you feel comfortable with this person or not. Never hire a contractor you're not comfortable with.
If a contractor is referred to you by someone you trust, this does not guarantee you will be happy with the bathroom remodel. Most referrals that I have gotten over the years are like rolling the dice, I believe I would have done just as good picking a name out of a hat.
Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He is currently working on more building stairs and adding useful content to help solve problems created by the lack of construction knowledge in the building industry.
Stepping On Ceiling Plaster
