Building Your Own Kitchen Cabinets

If you have ever considered building your own kitchen cabinets and aborted the idea by convincing yourself that you have no woodworking tools, or I know nothing about wood staining and finishing, or little about cabinet making in general, then read on and believe me when I say it can be done with minimal tools.

With the rising price of lumber and plywood on the market today a set of kitchen cabinets bought pre made, or custom made is becoming an unreality for some home owners. Consider building your own and saving money.

Now it would be nice to have a complete woodworking shop all ready to just punch out a set of kitchen cabinets on demand, but that is probably not the case and here is the alternative to the solution.

You can measure and layout on paper the design of your kitchen using the existing kitchen as a example of how things are constructed then break it down into a parts list forgetting any doors, drawers, or hardware for the time being. Just concentrate on the shell.

When you have your parts list ready you can buy the materials and hire a cabinet shop to cut and mill the parts for the boxes and what your left with is assembling the boxes. This is not uncommon practice in cabinetry now days as more cabinet manufactures are farming out there work so they can produce more. The cabinet shop will package the order for each box making it easier to identify the cabinet and understand the assembly.

When your kitchen cabinets are assembled you measure the door and drawer opening and take your list to a company that specializes in building just doors and drawers.

Once the cabinets are assembled and the drawer slides installed to cabinet box and drawer it is a good idea to dry fit all parts before installing your kitchen cabinets.

At this point you need to decide what type finish and top coat you want to use on your kitchen cabinets and how it should be done. We are not going to discuss in detail how to finish your cabinets in this how to because it is a separate issue altogether, but suggest you install the cabinets and hire a professional painter to do the final step.

Another alternative to save money, labor and error factors is to buy Ready to Assemble cabinets from companies that specialize in this area. The savings may not be as great as doing it all yourself, but Ready to Assemble cabinets cost less to ship than pre made kitchen cabinets and usually provide professional assistance in design.

You can read more detailed information on Building Your Own Kitchen Cabinets at our website in the Interior Home Improvement section.

Chet Holcomb of Home Improvement Handyman is a experienced carpenter and contractor with many years doing home repair and specializing in cabinetry and considered an expert in the field of home improvement.

Pergo Laminate Flooring - Learn How To Do A DIY Pergo Flooring Installation

Pergo Laminate Flooring is one of the giants in the laminate hardwood flooring industry. The floors are designed for home remodeling DIY enthusiasts, so questions related to installing laminate flooring abound. Pergo Laminate Flooring, Harmonics Laminate Flooring, Armstrong Laminate Flooring and similar products are pounced upon by gleeful, hand-rubbing first-time home remodelers. An average-sized floor can be ready to use and admire within a day - just imagine all the compliments from somewhat green-around-the-gills neighbors...

The days of battling to fit messy, sticky, glued laminate flooring are long gone thanks to ranges such as Pergo glueless laminate flooring planks. The unique tongue and groove designs of Pergo floors simply click together for a perfect finish. This is one of the most gratifying do it yourself jobs to tackle, as progress is measurable and the end result quite spectacular.

Is Installing Pergo Flooring Over Existing Floors Advisable?

The beauty of Pergo Laminate Flooring is that it can be laid directly over ceramic, vinyl, tiles or real wood floors, saving you the trouble of ripping out an old floor first. Make sure that the floor is clean, smooth and carefully sand down any bumps or peaked joints. Carpeting needs to be taken out however. It is always recommended to do fittings of cabinets or cupboards first, before tackling your flooring project. Real hardwood installed over a concrete sub-floor also needs to be removed before a Pergo Laminate Flooring installation.

Do I Need Expansion Room Around The Perimeter Of My Pergo Flooring Installation?

Pergo Laminate Flooring is a floating floor product, meaning that it isn't permanently fixed to the sub-floor area. These ranges expand and contract due to changes in humidity and temperature. It is therefore vital to leave a 1/4" expansion space between the flooring planks and the adjacent walls or cupboards. If you don't do this, you will have unsightly buckling floors. The Pergo floor moldings are used to hide these spaces after installation and to ensure a professional finish. Use spacers to keep your distances even. If you are tackling a very large floor area, the expansion space needs to be increased.

Does Pergo Laminate Flooring Also Have A Hollow Sound When Used?

The sound depends largely on the sub-floor layer and the thickness of the laminate flooring installation. One way to get around this is to install a sound underlayment and resin polyethylene film underneath your Pergo Laminate Flooring planks. This is a highly effective technique to use if you want to dampen the sound. This protective layer also acts as a moisture barrier, lengthening the life of the flooring. Take a look at Pergo SilentStep foam or Soundbloc foam and Moisturbloc vapor barrier. By adding these a cushioning layer, you also ensure a more comfortable, soft floor underfoot. If the sub-floor is wood, a vapor barrier isn't introduced before installing Pergo Laminate Flooring.

Can I Install Pergo Laminate Flooring Immediately After My Purchase?

To be on the safe side, acclimate your Pergo floor planks by leaving the cartons in the room where they will be installed, for a period of 49 to 96 hours. This precaution will give you a floor that remains clicked into place, rather than becoming an ugly buckling disaster area.

Can I Use Pergo Laminate Flooring In A Bathroom Or Kitchen?

Pergo Laminate Flooring's surface is highly water resistant, so the planks can be used in high humidity areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. In these areas however, the expansion spaces need to be sealed with Pergo Sealant or a similar mildew-resistant silicone product before installing the trim or molding. The same should be done where the planks were cut to make room for cupboards or a dishwasher. Some experts also recommend sealing the joints by using glue. Check with your supplier about the most satisfactory installation process. In spite of its water resistance, Pergo Laminate Flooring are not made to handle standing water.

Can I Use Pergo Laminate Flooring On Stairs?

Pergo flooring is perfect for stairs. Steps are finished with Pergo Stair Nosing. The nosing is adhered with a quality construction adhesive and finishing screws. A stair application is the only time that the floating floor concept of Pergo is replaced with a glued end product.

How Do I Ensure A Professional Finish When Installing Pergo Laminate Flooring?

A5B4 large range of color-coordinated transition moldings are available to give an elegant and stylish finish to your flooring project. T-Moldings are used in doorways, while end moldings are used along sliding doors and around tubs and basins. If you need to go from a raised Pergo flooring area to a lower hard surface such as vinyl, you would choose a hard surface reducer.

Oops! I Have A Nick In My Pergo Laminate Flooring! What Now?

No problem. The folks at Pergo realized that this is an inevitable mishap in a bustling household. They therefore made sure that you have access to Pergo Finishing Putty. Simply neaten the edges of the chipped area with a small knife, make sure the area is clean, and fill the hole with putty. A spatula gives a neat finish and the excess is simply wiped away with a clean cloth. Plank replacements are also possible if a more major repair is needed.

With a gleaming Pergo Presto or Pergo American Cottage floor installation, your home will be transformed into a wrinkle-less, stylish lady. Pergo Laminate Flooring has been performing plastic surgery on properties for years. It's about time to let that tattered carpet go...

Click here to download your free copy of The Ultimate Laminate4BE Flooring Buyer's Guide. Get more free Laminate Flooring ebooks at Home-Improvement-Time.com, where you can also read the TrafficMaster Allure Flooring and other articles. Copyright of this article: 2007 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.

Site Waste Management Plans

From April 2008 on Contractors in England shall have another legal requirement to comply with among the host of national and European regulations. The requirement is the provision of Site Waste Management Plans (SWMPs) which will be a legal requirement for all construction projects in England over 300,000, after the 6th of April.

On the face of it one would think that this would be just another pen pushing/PC keyboard keying burden, but the research says otherwise. In fact there is evidence to suggest that the SWMPs should actually save the construction industry significant sums of money in a manner which is also sustainable as it results in reduced energy utilisation and a lower raw material consumption rate.

Site Waste Management Plans should also help the construction industry to get maximum value out of its waste and make better use of resources and in this way they will be moving towards more sustainable waste management. It will also expose the cowboys in the industry, and reduce fly tipping as a result.

These plans are cited as being extremely beneficial in formalising a comprehensive recycling and waste management strategy for each project. If they succeed in this they will become important tools for the construction industry. Those that propound their use say they will be a good way to help businesses be careful about how they use, store and dispose of materials which at present usually only get consideration AFTER all other factors have been decided.

By taking early action on waste before the planned enforcement of Site Waste Management Plans (SWMPs) contractors are said to be benefiting from significant cost savings, much to the surprise of all concerned. These Plans should provide a structure for waste delivery and disposal during construction projects, reduce waste going to landfill and increase recycling rates on-site.

The industry has been following a voluntary code of practice launched by DTI in 2004, but implementation has been patchy. Defra resolved that enforcement would be necessary and has developed proposals for the introduction of compulsory site waste management plans in England.

Contractors seeking more information about the plans should read the latest news on construction waste on the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) website. There is also guidance for anyone working in building, demolition, civil engineering or building trades on the UK Government's NetRegs website. It has also been possible to download the non-statutory guidance for site waste management plans from the Defra website (PDF) for some time, and before the deadline for the new regulations this April there is likely to be updated information provided for downloading..

Construction Waste

Construction and demolition waste accounts for around 33% of controlled waste in the UK (over 100 million tonnes/ year), making it the single largest waste stream.

Construction is the single largest user of material resources in the economy and generates 100 million tonnes of waste every year WRAP. Construction firms are being urged to take early action on waste before the planned enforcement of Site Waste Management Plans (SWMPs) next year so that they are not overburdened when enforcement commences.

If they work as intended by the government, SWMPs should do a lot to change the construction industry's attitude to waste by raising the profile of waste management planning. Defra held regional workshops for the construction industry during the consultation period at which a two way dialogue helped to do just that.

But, don't forget that it is not all about cost saving and sustainability for the government. Our English MPs are also concerned about the small, but increasing amount of construction waste that is illegally dumped or fly-tipped and which causes enormously bad publicity wherever locally it takes place.

The SWMP regulations will encourage contractors to recycle suitable spoil, demolition materials, prunings, and surplus construction material arising from the works on site to avoid the need to transport materials. 5B4 CIRIA are currently developing Best Practice examples of waste minimisation in the UK Construction sector. Also, a SWMP, guidance document and a Code of Practice were launched back in July 2004 to help the construction industry face the major challenge of changes in waste management legislation, including SWMPs.

The purpose of SWMPs will basically also encompass a new site task to provide accurate projections for waste delivery and disposal at every stage of a construction project. Many will see this as very burdensome.

SWMPs will apply to all construction work including preparatory work such as demolition and excavation, civil engineering and engineering projects, and projects involving maintenance, alteration and decoration of existing structures. Also to be included in the plans is the installation, maintenance or removal of related services such as electrical, gas, water, sewage and telecommunications.

Conclusion

The workload required to produce and maintain and circulate the Site Waste Management Plan is significant, but these actions are seen to be of great value as an important tool for cost savings for construction companies and their clients, of all sizes. The new enforceable provision of SWMPs should provide another step in the quest to improve the environmental performance of all English construction contractors, and help them to meet regulatory controls, and reduce the ever-rising costs of di774sposing of waste.

The implementation of this statutory duty to prepare construction site waste management plans will be starting very soon. We recommend that all construction professionals should familiarise themselves now with the Code of Practice.

The SWMP should not be seen as a negative development as it aims to assist contractors in their own management of their waste development and disposal planning. Contracting industry staff will surely soon be able to roll out of Site Waste Management Plans rapidly and efficiently for the benefit of all involved after a short initial period of learning, and in most cases the SWMP should then save money for the site developer and users.

Contact us for more information at How to Write a Site Waste Management Plan.

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Bathroom Decor Ideas - Tips For Colors And Material

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

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

Colors And Material

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

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

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

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

Decorative Touches

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

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

Selecting A Theme

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

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

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

Air Cleaner Humidifiers

When buying a air humidifier these are the following benefits you should seek:

- Health: Most people buy humidifiers to help them overcome problems related to asthma, allergies, cold sinus, whee5B4zing coughs, etc. For people having specific allergies requiring inhalation of steam air to help breathing should use a warm air humidifier. A Cold air humidifier is useful for those who have small children who may get injured from accidental spillage of hot water.

- Correct condensation: You don't want the humidity levels to be inconsistent with the furniture, bedding, and other items which may result in growth of mould. Always ask the salesperson for an automatic humidistat that automatically controls the humidity levels, and auto shutdown feature that switches of the power should the water finish.

- Easy refilling of water: Perhaps the most important thing to ask your salesperson is how easy it will be to store water in the humidifier. This is important so that you dont have to perpetually fill the humidifier using a water hose.

- Change of filters: Filters on humidifiers have to be changed regularly to prevent growth of bacteria and other infections on the filter that could aggravate your allergy or emit foul smells. Since filters cost 420 upwards you should ask your salesperson what features ensure filters are used to their optimum capacity.

- Easy storage: Depending upon your requirements you may need a humidifier to be installed outside the window or have easy storage within the room. Whatever the case may be finding one with the right colour combination and ease of refilling water should be the prime c3B7riteria.

Fortunately most manufacturers understand these needs and have come up with innovative features to surprise you with the benefits. Check out the range of COOL AIR HUMIDIFIERS that protect you health needs.

Home Improvement Ideas That Won't Break the Piggy Bank

An attractive kitchen is one of the things a person notices and remembers about a home. Rather then spending large amounts of cash having cabinets and surfaces replaced, try picking up new doors and hardware, and maybe a can of wood stain or paint. Old cabinets can be freshened up with a brush and screwdriver in an afternoon for a lot less than a complete overhaul. The same tricks work for appliances which may feature removable plates. New plates can be ordered in different colors or materials. Some may even be reversible already, so if you want to remodel a white kitchen darker you only need to loosen a few screws.

Light fixtures can be changed by following the included directions. Old styles can be made modern in a half hour. Using eco-friendly fixtures can improve a room's attractiveness while adding cleaner light and lowering your electric bill. Doorknobs, handles, and other hardware throughout the house can be retouched for a better look.

Landscaping can be done with nothing more than a hand spade. Local gardeners and groups may meet and share plants. Some species that are commonly used spread, and a neighbor may want to get rid of some beautiful plants. Ask around and improve the outside of your home without having to sell off the furniture inside. If you already do some gardening, check on line for a seed exchange. The price of postage may be all it takes for you to trade vegetable seeds for a tree seedling or a small shrub.

Flooring is normally the realm of experts, but kits exist that are installed over existing floors. Several hundred dollars can be saved by doing the work yourself while getting rid of worn out floors.

If your carpet is looking used but you can't afford to lay new carpeting, rent a shampooer and purchase the cleaning agents for it. Using it in a high traffic room can put new life into it and put off replacement.

Adding a new toilet seat in the bathroom and a few new towels can give a newer look to you bathroom. Replace chipped tiles around your bathroom and clean the group to complete the look. A new sink may not be difficult for a DIY-er to handle either.

Hiring a professional to inspect your home and take care of small repairs can be a good thing as well. When small details like wiring and water fixtures are reseated and touched up it tells visitors that you care about your home. The price of a pro for a few hours may be more than enough to make up for the equipment and tools you would have to purchase yourself.

Watch your front door. A loose handle and cracking paint around it will be the first thing to greet visitors. Adding stronger fixtures, a new light kit, or paint to the frame can do wonders for the image of your home. Metal frames can be painted over as well, without requiring a new frame.

New curtains on your windows present a better image. Anyone driving by can see your windows so if the colors are off or they are getting tatty, just hanging a new set will make everyone feel better.

If you don't have enough space for a proper garden behind your home, consider flower boxes. Installing them underneath a window is easy and small flowers growing inside them makes a home warmer. If you enjoy cooking you can install one near the kitchen as a boxed herb garden.

TC Thorn writes home and garden and remodeling articles for Home Improvement Ideas Visit the bathroom remodeling and kitchen remodeling sections for more ideas.

Luxurious Looking Bathroom For The Rich And Famous

We can turn our bathrooms into our own luxurious day spas with a little imagination and some cool accessories thanks to major improvements in the industry of late. You can turn your bathroom into a relaxing haven of tranquility and peace with the products on the market today. Of course you must identify the available space before deciding upon what type of dcor you will go with. Many modern homes are limited in bathroom space unless you buy a custom home.

If you have a smaller area to work with you can go with lighter colors and pastel tones to make the area look lighter and more open. Lighter colors like this go a long way to making a room appear much larger than it actually is. With bathrooms it isn't an option to have big clear windows that allow an abundance of light in so we have to be creative. In some cases this may include a large skylight but since the natural light is limited in most cases you must always keep the lighting factor at the front of your mind.

You also have to choose certain materials to use when decorating a bathroom. You don't want the wallpaper peeling off of the wall so you want to use vinyl coated paper that resists moistur5B4e and is durable. When painting you will want to use enamel oil based paint instead of water based acrylic that may peel easily.

Marble has been used in bathrooms for a long time, although it is by no means the cheapest of luxury bathroom accessories. If you have the money to implement it, you will definitely get a luxurious look. After you have finished with the basic decorating there are many other items that can add to the joy you get from your bathroom. In addition to the normal bathroom accessories you have numerous choices in mirrors, furniture, and lighting which are in all bathrooms and many that may be rarely seen. One high quality item that isn't found in most bathrooms is the whirlpool bath. In addition to just being great for relaxing they are also great for helping with the treatment of things like arthritis and common muscle aches and soreness.

A sauna is perhaps the epitome of luxury bathroom accessories and you definitely have to have the space available to install one. The majority of suppliers have many sizes available to choose from though so this is becoming less of an issue. Saunas aren't cheap but they are the high end in luxury bathrooms. Just take the time to plan and you will be able to have the high end luxury bathroom of your dreams.

Gregg Hall is an author living with his beautiful wi397fe and family in Navarre Beach, Florida. Find more about storage as well as home storage at http://www.homestorageplusmore.com

Create An Attic Bathroom

How to turn your attic into an extra room by creating a bathroom

Install shelving in niches beneath sloping walls and create a luxurious feel with a walk-in wet room style shower and a large freestanding bath. A delicate colour scheme helps soften the angular lines of the room and a window seat with cupboards below is both comfortable and practical.

HOW TO MAKE IT WORK...
A console table or a simple chest of drawers can be adapted to make an excellent alternative to expensive fitted units and create a stylish integrated look.

A wet room style shower will increase the sense of space within the room, while a specially made storage unit below a window can double as seating.

Draw up a detailed plan of the room, and consider each corner carefully. For example, can you fit a shower under one of the eaves?

Consult a good bathroom supplier for advice on creating a wet room.

Paint walls and pieces of furniture in pale colours to give the room a light, spacious feel.

All wood used in a bathroom should be oiled to protect it against water. Choose wooden flooring that has been engineered for use in a bathroom.

Use different materials, such as wood and stone, to create gentle divisions in the room.

Make removable covers for all soft furnishings so that they can be easily washed.

Use acrylic eggshell or a specially formulated bathroom paint with a plastic base which is impervious to water and can be wiped down.

You can find more information on bathroom ideas and bathroom planning at house to home, helping you create a look you'll love

Tips For Your Bathroom Makeover

Do you always wish for a wishing wand that would bring you a glorious looking bathroom, the kind of spacious and beautifully bright bathroom where you can simply float on soap bubbles just like a fairy would float among the clouds? Well, you can stop wishing and dreaming now because this article will help you make your dream into reality. Yes, wake up and read on.

A small bathroom may be uncomfortable for you, but you do not realize how cozy it actually is. With a little creativity, you can stop feeling so annoyed about the smallness of your bathroom. Use the following tips and blend it with your very own signature style so that your small bathroom looks an5B4d feels more beautiful than you ever imagined.

1. The idea of the makeover is to transform the small bathroom into a heavenly retreat, a special place for you to relax and let go of the day's worries.

2. Avoid using strong colors that would make your bathroom seem smaller than it actually is. Paint your bathroom in soft colors that would lend itself the space illusion generously. Before you shudder and think, 'pink', stop worrying. You do not have to settle for pink if it is not your color. You can settle for other colors instead but not dark colors. Pastel colors would do well as would neutral colors. You can brighten up your space using bright color towels instead. The whole idea of cool colors is to strengthen the illusion of relaxation and serenity, apart from bringing in the feel of more space.

3. You can also bring in more space by adding appropriate lighting to transform the whole look of your bathroom. You can just add some cozy wall sconces to give it a dash of elegance and romance. You can opt for recessed can style of lighting where all you need to do is install the lighting fixtures in the bathroom ceiling. You can also add counter top lamps. There are a lot of expensive lighting options too in case you want to splurge, such as skylight, bigger windows and many other options.

4. If you want a vanity cabinet that would be a great idea but keep in mind that it takes a considerable amount of space on the52E floor. Another alternative you can consider would be to have a shelf under a wall-mounted sink so that you can use it as storage space. A linen closet would also be a good idea. Remember, if you finally opt for a vanity cabinet, you would have to repair your bathroom flooring whenever you decide to have the vanity cabinet removed.

5. All accessories or items that make the bathroom look crowded or small,, should be removed. The 'shrinking' effect can be caused by decorative elements in the bathroom or even racks that are used for hanging clothes or other items. Such items should be removed to usher in more space. You can think of better ways to store your bathroom items without clogging up this kitchen space.

Use these tips, and go ahead and enjoy the space in your bathroom and bring in your artistic touch as well!

http://fixsor.com/articles/tips_for_your_bathroom_makeover

Basement Finishing Ideas You Should Consider

Coming up with basement finishing ideas is the first step to utilizing the space in your home. Whether you are thinking about finishing your basement on your own or you want to hire a professional you have to decide how you want to use the space before you can get started. There are many different aspects you have to look at when you are coming up with basement finishing ideas. Not only do you have to decide how you are going to use the space and what rooms will make the best edition to your home, you also have to decide on the dcor.

When you are finishing your basement you need to make sure there aren't any moisture problems. Sealing the walls and floor so that you have no seepage before you put up your walls is important, if this step is forgotten you will not only have more work to repair the problems, but you will have the huge expense of replacing the materials that were ruined as well as starting the project over.

One great basement finishing idea is to use the space as an office or workspace. Basement offices are great for starting your own business or keeping up with your work at home. A basement library is also a great idea when you are looking into finishing your basement. If there is space that you can place book shelves, add good lighting, and keep warm and quiet you have a perfect home library. Families with teens and preteens can use a library for a study area before important tests.

Basements are also a good place for an entertainment room. When you are coming up with basement finishing ideas you need to look at costs. If you decide to make an entertainment room you not only have to look at the cost of building materials and the construction crew (if you hire professionals) as well as remembering the cost of the furnishings for the entertainment room. It is not very entertaining to have a large empty room. Keeping your ideas within your budget is important.

When finishing the basement you will want to think about the floor coverings. Carpeting is an effective way to cover the floor and keep the room looking nice while adding warmth and personality. If you choose to carpet the area you may want to double pad the carpet. Unlike the other levels in your home the basement is on a concrete floor. If you don't add to the padding then standing on the basement floor for long periods of time can cause leg and back pain.

While you are coming up with your basement finishing ideas there are several things to think about. Keeping in mind what your budget is and what you want to use the space for will help you to be able to meet your goals. Once you have come up with the basement finishing ideas that you find appealing you can then move forward with your remodeling plans.

If you're looking for more basement refinishing ideas or some really creative basement ceiling ideas then visit us to learn more about the Owens Corning Basement System

Remodeling Your Bedroom

The word "master" is an antiquated term that suggests control, domination, and inequality, and in today's cooperative partner and/or single parent household, the label "master suite" has become obsolete. In that light, master bedrooms would more properly be called "main bedrooms" in todays society.

Far removed from the activity of family rooms and busy kitchens, the bedroom is the place where your day begins and ends. Surprisingly, however, main bedroom redecorating frequ111Cently ranks near the bottom of most people's home renovation lists. But if you want an immediate uplift of your emotional state, there are few projects that will do that more effectively than remodeling your main bedroom.

Remodeling Your Main Bedroom for Happiness

The main bedroom, with its softened textures, serene artwork, and muted patterns, intimately captures the warmth of a home. Passion colors, such as red, purple, royal blue, rose, or the gilt of gold, add drama and indulgence. Plan your main bedroom design with private times in mind, beginning with the purpose of the bedroom. Do you want a Passion Boudoir, Reading Room, or Private Sanctuary?

Passion Boudoir

French women are known to create the sexiest bedrooms in the world, and like many French women, today's homemakers often plan for sex and decorate accordingly, creating evocative, enticing bedrooms. Here are a few suggestions for creating a Passion Boudoir:

Flattering colors contribute to personal beauty and are erotically appealing. Choose seductive colors like Rouge Red, Lipstick Reds, Creamy Peaches, and Subtle Pinks. Make sure the colors enhance your natural beauty. Be daring and use bold colors on the walls.

Luscious fabrics will set the stage for sensuousness. Use silky, velvet, and chenille textures in combination with nubby textures. Use fabrics that remind you of a favorite shared memory. Exotic patterns, such as animal prints or tropical florals, conjure images of faraway journeys.

Locating mirrors in unusual places, such as the tops of dressers or side tables, reflect dancing candle light. Tropical plants and trees, uplit with special lights, also cast exciting shadows.

An intimate bistro table, set with two chairs, invites private conversations. Dressing tables, furnished with feminine accessories and intimate objects, add mystery and romance to a room.

Just the presence of a bed tray suggests the possibility of the ultimate pleasure: breakfast in bed, while soft lighting, candles, essential oils in a diffuser, and gentle oscillating fans effectively complete the dcor in a Passion Boudoir.

Reading Rooms

If you're one of the many people who love to read in their bedrooms, you might consider designing your main bedroom with lounging and reading books in mind. Since eye experts warn that it's bad for a person's eyes to read while lying down (because we tend to hold the book too close), you might begin by enabling proper reading posture by installing padded headboards.

Another consideration is lighting. Eye experts claim that readers need at least two reading lamps of at least 175-200 watts, but that type of lighting would seem quite harsh in a bedroom setting. In fact, as my friend Madi, a devoted bedroom reader, says, "My reading time is some of my most important time, intellectually, spiritually, and emotionally. It's the most intimate time I give myself; it compares to what others may call meditation. Just being in a space that's warm and comfortable with a good book is the greatest thing in the world to me, and any bright light would change the ambience of that quiet time."

Madi certainly isn't alone in cherishing her reading time, or in opposing harsh lighting in the bedroom. So instead of individual lights, consider equalizing the overall lighting scheme by adding other less obtrusive lights across the room.

Good colors for Reading Rooms include Old World Ivory, Antique Amber, Sage Green, and Slate Blue. These soft colors reflect light without glare and also support peaceful feelings.

Squishy pillows, luxurious Afghans or throws, landscape paintings with distant horizons, and mirrors for private reflections add feelings of indulgence. A great lounge chair with a floor lamp and nearby tea table completes the additions to a perfect Reading Room.

Private Sanctuary

Perhaps you'd rather turn your main bedroom into a personal retreat, where you can escape and unwind from a busy day. Surround yourself with photos of friends, family, and places you love, as well as your favorite artwork and meaningful mementos. Under-furnished private sanctuaries can also give you the space to contemplate and daydream.

Good colors for private sanctuaries include dark Forest Greens, deep Chocolates, Mochas, Navy5B4 or Cobalt Blues, and Eggplant. Darker colors create a womb-like feeling and aid deep sleep.

A writing desk, accompanied by a comfortable chair, induces journal and letter writing. A small refrigerator will make you feel as if you can enjoy your time in the bedroom without interruption, and a television offers the opportunity to watch your favorite movies and shows. Room-darkening window coverings also encourage deep sleep and aid in the restoration of your soul.

Living Room Furniture in Bedrooms

Bedrooms can truly become living rooms when they're furnished luxuriously -- like a private suite. Adding furniture usually considered living room pieces automatically upscales the importance of your bedroom. Sofas, rocking chairs, or matching overstuffed chairs help create the feeling of an oasis.

The bedroom is the most personal of all the rooms in our home. In fact, as a Realtor, I've been in houses on home tours where the main bedroom was off-limits. That may seem strange, but it only served to add to the mystery of the home. I've also been in a delightful home where the living room itself had actually been turned into a fabulous main bedroom!

Only you can decide the best bedroom setting for your personal preferences and lifestyle, but if you want to make a dramatic change for the better in your life, there's no better way to accomplish that than remodeling your main bedroom!

Copyright 2005 Jean4EFette J. Fisher. All rights reserved. (You may publish this article in its entirety with the following author's information with live links only.)

Jeanette Fisher teaches home makers five easy steps to makeover their homes for happiness. She is the author of interior design and real estate books and teaches interior Design Psychology, Free Design Psychology ebooks. http://www.designpsych.com

What You Need To Know About Lawn Care

Many people who build a new home are worried about the landscaping because they dont know how to do lawn care. The most important thing about planning a lawn is to have the right kind of grass for the soil. All grass is not the same. Some kinds can grow quite high, while others dont grow high at all. If you dont have a lot of time available for fertilizing and mowing, then this would be the right kind of grass for you.

Other factors that you need to consider when choosing the grass for your lawn include:

How much direct sunlight will the lawn have or will it be mostly in the shade?
Is the lawn sloping and what is the drainage like?
What quality of lawn do you want to have?
How much money do you have budgeted for lawn care?
If you have the money, but not the time, you can actually hire a lawn service and not have to worry about mowing, watering and other lawn care needs.

However, most people want the pleasure of knowing that the beautiful lawn they have is the result of their own hard work. You do need to fertilize the lawn to give the grass the extra nutrients that it needs. Any garden center will have several different kinds of fertilizer for you to choose from. Since these brand names all differ in price and the amount of time you need to spend on the lawn, you do need to read the labels. For instance, if you dont have a lot of time to spend applying fertilizer, choose a brand that will only need application once every two or three months.

It is very imp49Cortant to water the lawn. With the help of a sprinkler system, you can just turn it on and give the grass the water that it needs. However, even with a sprinkler system, there is a danger of watering the grass too much. You do need to keep an eye on the grass and the weather to know when enough is enough.

For lots of great lawn care tips and information, visit The Lawn Care Guide at http://lawncare.77sites.com

Living In Style, Your Home, Sweet Home

Roti, kappra aur makan (food, clothes and shelter) is not the mantra (magic- words) of this era of luxury and fashion. With this changing world, its inhabitants as well as their demands have changed a lot beyond recognition. Man is no more satiated with the minimum and basic requirements of life. Everybody wants to relish the best of all things, be it food, garments or shelter. Though it is a characteristic of all human beings that they are never satiated with what they get. They always want to have more and more. There is no end of their wish list. But this urge of man to get more, has also helped him to wade through all obstacles of life. It has also acted as a source of inspiration to move forward. And the word shelter carries more weight as it displays ones living standard and strength.

Now a house does not mean only the four walls of brick and mortar but the term living in style has evolved to take its place. Living in style or living kingly is the catchphrase of the time. A more demand for an elegant living will generate in future for sure. The definition of house has been changed significantly. It has moved from a mere shelter to a sign of premium living, from single standing Project to Condominium, from cement paint exterior to plush glass and metal front. There is a gradual leap from simple apartments to A/c apartments. French windows, aluminum sliding doors, terrace pools, a small garden with the living room, spa and Jacuzzi in the master toilet with shower panel, high quality flooring and specification have become the thing of necessity. Amenities like sophisticated waiting lounge, shopping mall, swimming pool, community hall, childrens park, lots of open spaces and garden, health club, club house, high speed automatic lift with top class security and facility management are on the top of their list. What was considered a luxury few years ago has now become a necessity with the changing lifestyle. It is also due to this aspiration of man to lead a life of comfort and luxury that men are coughing up a good some of money on it. The whole world has learned to live a life in a more stylish way.

People are also running after the most sought concept of building automation or the digital homes. The concepts of digital homes have already reached many countries but still there are such countries that are still untouched by the concept of digital homes. The system enables its owners to control everything from lights, curtains and security system and operate appliances like microwaves, air conditioners and geysers through landlines and mobile phones ( via SMS also). The owner can also connect their homes with internet to control the gadgets and view their homes.

Moreover, after you come back home, you can get fresh and cool air around you, your food already ready to eat, all lights on and many more such services can be controlled only through a SMS from your mobile phone from any nook and corner of the world. This system will prove to be a friend in need of yours.

Finger identification doors, video door phone, gas leak detector, smart card and cameras are already there. But a new leaf has been added with the invention of door alarm which will aware the owner if the door is not properly locked.

In near future, we will find that the building automation, which is a luxury now, will no more remain a luxury but a thing of necessity. Few years back, a building with a good elevation and lift was a mark of luxury but now its no more that. Today, premium project means value addition of facilities and lifestyle with location advantages. With the rapid escalation in peoples earnings the popularity of the digital type homes are also increasing.

As the life style plays an important role in the buyers mind so as in the developers. The meaning and aspect of life style is not stagnant. It is always changing with the changing time. The gulf between luxury and necessity is getting thin. Men now can afford more for the availability of easy loan terms with many money lenders. Living in style is no more an uncommon word; rather it is a natural choice for all.

Kanquona Bhattacharjee is a freelance writer and bloger. She has completed her post graduation in English from the University of Calcutta. She has some deep insight into social problems and often present these infront of the most strongest medium. Her personal website url is http://www.wertex.org/ She can be contacted at kanquona@wertex.org http://www.ezinearticles.com/?expert=Kanquona_bhattacharjee

Beautiful Curtains Or Drapes Made By An Expert Seamstress - And That Expert Is You!

Curtains, drapes or blinds for your window, decisions, decisions.

You've just moved into a new house or apartment, or maybe you've just decorated, but the problem is the same, a great big picture window or even a cute little window, naked as the day it was made just waiting for a beautiful dressing.

So whether you have a bare bedroom, bathroom or kitchen window, what are your options?

Let's go into your lounge and take a look at your huge patio door or picture window.

You could go with vertical blinds, they're certainly practical but where's the style and beauty?

No, what you really want are gorgeous drapes, the sort that make your friends and neighbours drool with envy.

Perhaps you've had a price for these curtains in the past and nearly fainted, they don't come cheap, but why are they so expensive?

To1691 a certain extent it's the cost of the fabric but the bulk of the price is in the labour needed to make them up, and don't forget the shop adds a percentage as well.

What if I told you there is a way you could save 75% of the price, would that make a difference? You bet it would.

But where or how could you make that sort of saving?

The same place I do, at home, by making them yourself.

Before you say 'I'm no good at sewing' or 'I really wouldn't know where to start', it isn't rocket science, it's just knowledge which you haven't acquired yet.

Just think of the benefits:

Your money goes much further, instead of dressing just one window you can afford to dress four for the same cost;

You'll have a huge pride in the finished job, and best of all you can have them now, no waiting around weeks, or even months, for your job to be made and delivered.

Now you're thinking 'ok, I'm sold, but where can I go to learn this new skill?'

This is where I come in, I've been making curtains for the best part of 30 years and now I've started to train others, just like you, in the art of curtain making.

Through my website I market a growing range of ebooks that detail, by way of actual photographs and captions, every single step.

But the best part is you're not on your own, if you run into a problem or there's something you don't understand then ask me - try doing that with a hard-back book author!

And if that's not enough then I'll upload a video that'll show the solution to your problem area in even greater detail.

With the power of the internet, my help and your resolve that you can do this there will be no stopping you.

Look through a magazine and decide what you would like and go for it, you won't regret it.

Sally Harvey has been making curtains and soft furnishings since 1978. She's worked in commercial workrooms and latterly as an out-worker working from home. A 'Getting Started' ebook is available for free download at http://www.curtainsecrets.com

Choosing A Walk In Bathtub

Walk in bathtubs are becoming increasingly popular, not only for those who in their senior years find themselves wanting to remain independent, but also for those who are approaching the baby boomer years and preparing for retirement.

With so many models and options now flooding the market, choosing a walk in bathtub can be difficult. Walk in bathtubs are sold on the web under a variety of names and2238 website addresses. If you want to be sure of what you are buying, contact the manufacturer for information about the product. Look for upfront answers to the following questions:

1. How long have you been manufacturing walk in bathtubs?
2. What is the price?
3. Can my local plumber or installer do the installation?
4. Where can I see the bathtub?
5. What is the warranty?
6. Does the bathtub hold more water than a regular bathtub?
7. Does the tub have CSA/UL certification?
8. What options are available?
9. How does your tub differ from other walk in bathtubs on the market?

Beware of companies who try to sell you a walk in bathtub whether it is the right choice for you or not. Walk in bathtubs are not for people who are wheelchair bound and cannot transfer. People who suffer from Alzheimers; someone who could not be left alone to use a stove, should not be left alone to bathe. If you have concerns about the ability of an individual to use the walk in bath, express those concerns. A credible manufacturer will be honest about who the users of their product should be.

It is wise to remember that convenience, comfort and safety should be the main objective you are purchasing a walk-in bathtub.

For more information:
Visit: http://www.safetybath.com
Safety Bath Inc.
504 5th Ave NE
Ituna, Saskatchewan, Canada

Author
Pat Krushen
Phone: 1 877 826 6666 Ext: 22
Fax: 1 306 795 3533
Email: Pat@safetybath.com

A New Look To Your Bathroom

For giving a new look to your bathroom you have to add some modern accessories and furniture. Modern accessories and furniture is available in various sizes, shapes and colors. Modern accessories not only enhance the beauty of your bathroom but also increases it's functionality. A bathroom is considered as an important place as it reflects the life style of a family. Modern bathroom is changing into a comfort zone. You can have a spa like treatment at home if you install a luxury shower in your bathroom. One of the most important things which enhance the look of your bathroom is lightning. Your bathroom needs both artificial and natural light. Lightning enhances the look and makes the room look more elegant. Several types of lights which can be used in a bathroom are down lights, shower lights, spot lights, wall lights, mirror lights and shaving lights.

To finish the look of your bathroom you can install designer mirrors. Mirrors reflect the light and make your bathroom look more spacious. Nowadays people are installing designer furniture to change the look of their bathroom. You can buy some cabinets for storage of towels and other important things. Basic accessories of a bathroom are showers, wash basin, bathroom tubs and shelves.It 502is a good idea to set a budget before planning your bathroom. The bathroom is no longer just a space for cleaning yourself as it is changing into a relaxing spot.A skilled interior designer can help you a lot in giving an elegant look to your bathroom.

Jitesh Arora.
If you want to know more about Bathrooms then feel free to visit Bella Bathrooms.

Investing Money Into Your Home - Will I See A Return On My Investment?

With the housing market in a record slump, one of the biggest questions I get from people is how much is too much to spend on a renovation and will I see that money back when I go to sell my house?

While it is a common belief that any money you put into your house will add value to it, this is not always the case. There are really two different categories that you put home renovations into- General Maintenance/Upkeep and Visual Improvements.

1) General Maintenance- Projects like replacing your hot water heater, patching a leaky roof, repairing damaged siding, or sealing up cracks in the foundation are not going to show you a return on your investment but they are going to be required to keep up the overall condition of your home.

Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your home but at some point there are things that are going to be replaced. By avoiding repairs or maintenance on items like this will just make the condition worse and will result in even more money being needed for repairs

2) Visual Improvements- While that sounds very vague, this would be anything that is not structural in nature or not necessarily required. This is where investing money into your house is going to pay off. Projects like renovating a bathroom or a kitchen, finishing off a basement, adding a deck, or even landscaping the yard will not only spruce up your home but they will also add value

That being said, not all of these projects will yield the same return. For the same amount of money, finishing off a basement might yield a 20% return on your investment while renovating your kitchen or bathroom could yield a 75-90% return on your investment.

Even though the rule thumb says that you will see a return on your investment by renovating a kitchen or bathroom, or by finishing off a basement, that is not always the case. If you are planning on selling your home in the immediate future or down the road, putting too many personal touches on a space can actually have a negative affect.

The same thing can be said for spending too much on a given space. If the average kitchen in your neighbor is estimated at $25,000 in value and you spend $60,000 on your kitchen, odds are you will have a hard time convincing buyers that the house is worth that much more than your neighbors.

Adding additional bedrooms or an extra bathroom is always a good investment provided it is not taking space away from other usable space. Be careful when taking usable space to create two spaces. Sometimes taking a bedroom and cutting it in half will actually take value away from the house if it wasn't big enough to start with. It is always a good idea to have a real estate agent give you some advice as to the impa4A0ct a renovation will have on the value of your home.

By investing wisely, you can see some significant returns on your investment, whether it is a more comfortable living space for years to come or a more attractive home for potential homebuyers.

I have been renovating homes for 15 years, and I have found the secret to buying wholesale kitchen cabinets at 30-40% below retail. Find out my secret to high quality kitchen cabinets.

Home Improvement Tips

Whether you are planning to put your home on the market or make it more comfortable to live in, there is a lot to be gained from making home improvements.

Improvements in your home could involve:

- Repairs of already existing structures,
- Remodeling certain parts of the home to give them a facelift,
- Making additions to your home to improve quality of life,
- Home improvement projects in order to make a house more energy efficient or environment-friendly.

To decide on a home improvement project can seem pretty daunting. But armed with a few handy home improvement tips, you could be well on your way to the ideal home of your dreams. Most of these tips are easy to follow and will make deciding on home improvement projects a breeze for you.

- Before deciding on a home improvement project, you have to decide exactly why you think your home needs it, how much you should be spending on it, and what is the result you would be satisfied with.

- The first home improvements you should consider are repair moves. Attend to any ceiling repair problems, the plumbing job you have been putting off or that attic insulation that has become necessary. This holds true whether you are planning to live in the home yourself, put it on rent, or put the home on sale.

- Remodeling your kitchen or bathroom is a smart home improvement move if you are planning to put your home on sale. This increases the value of the home immediately, and if researched properly, can be done with very little investment.

- Home improvement projects that involve remodeling need to be well thought out, so that they do not look out of place in the house. They are usually done to improve lighting, provide more space or glamorize the home. Remodeling a home can also mean an improvement in the atmosphere. For instance, if a kitchen wall is broken down to create an open kitchen, it immediately makes the home more friendly and sociable.

- Making additions to a home like adding a deck, a pool, or an outdoor Storage area are usually the result of what the family needs, but could also be excellent selling points if the home goes up for sale some day. Additions to the home should be considered as home improvement projects if there is extra outdoor space which by itself does not improve the value of the home. A good tip for an improvement in the exterior spaces of the home is also to consider the neighborhood and only make changes and additions that would blend in.

- Helping a home improve its energy efficiency is also a great idea for a householder, because not only does it cut down on the electricity and gas bills, it is a great thing to do for the environment. Improvement in the insulation of the home can be a long-term blessing. Investing on a home so that it at least partially harvests Solar Energy could be another way of improving the home for posterity.

It is obvious that home improvement projects should not be carried out on a whim. It is essential to evaluate why a specific home improvement project is required, and what would be gained from the investment. While home improvements that involve repair increase the comfort in the home and its longevity and are therefore essential, all other sorts of home improvement need to be carefully evaluated before embarking on them.

Get more FREE information written by Joseph Then at his website at Home Improvement Tip Website

Small Bathroom Design Simplified

You will find that majority of the modern homes have a limited bathroom space. Homeowners in such a scenB68ario usually accommodate within that limited space, as they do not have any other option. Thus, it is a fact that the small bathroom designs, which make the best use of the space that is available, are now most in demand by the homeowners.

The following guidelines on small bathroom designs are conveniently applicable in case you are designing a bathroom for your new apartment or renovating your old bathroom.

- The small bathrooms look best with the small and deep bathtubs.

- The wall-mounted or pedestal sinks, basins and the small sized baths are simply made for each other, as they hardly occupy much floor space.

- In case, you prefer a shower stall, it is best to use clear shower screens for the enclosure. The best part of this is you will be able to save enough space and make way for enough light, which is unlike the framed opaque shower walls.

- You can have recessed and floating cabinets in your bathroom; this should make ample space.

- The small bathroom designs usually come with enough storage space for you to be able to stash away lots of clutter. Therefore, ensure that your bathroom has enough storage shelves and cabinets.

- Place the windows near the ceiling; this way, there will be enough wall space for you to include some storage cabinets beneath it.

- You would be clever enough to position the toilet in an alcove, by making use of the wall-space above for fix opening the shelves.

- When it comes to doors, most of the people are going for the sliding doors, which can be easily slid into the in-wall cavities. If you are opting for the hinged door, you can get the towel-rack installed on the door itself.

The homeowners need to abide by certain design - as well as dimension-parameters when planning the small bathroom designs, which depend on the area/zone. You can also try out a few optical illusion tricks for creating a space illusion.

Making use of light and mirrors

When you want the space inside your bathroom to look large, you can take the help of lights and mirrors. Try to make use of natural lights, which would surely make your bathroom look more bright and large, generating a sense of comfy. You can also try adding skylights and windows. This is indeed a great idea. However, when thinking to make use of electric lighting, you can arrange for the source of the light just below where the shelves have been installed.

When you place a mirror inside the bathroom, it helps in proper distribution of light and this seems to extend the overall dimension of the space. Such a strategy makes your small bathroom look effectively illuminated and it gives way to visual expansiveness.

Make use of tricky designs

Introduce vertical lines on the upper edges of the walls of your bathroom. This helps in creating height7B2 illusion. You can also have tiles installed on the walls of your bathroom and edge the top lining with designed border tiles to make things look more magical and impressive.

This is the way you should make use of the floor area of your bathroom and the type of tiles you choose to use for your bathroom should well compliment all sorts of small bathroom designs. No matter what you are going for - floor tiles or wall tiles they should be having identical shapes and light colored shades.

Making use of color to create illusions

Color is the best way of creating space illusions. Choose softer, lighter tones like pastel shades, neutrals or whites - these colors are sure to make your bathroom look as if having enough space and dimension.  Such colors also help in proper light distribution. Again, if you are planning to cover the walls of your bathroom with wallpapers then make sure to select plain and simple designs.

Read our Home Improvement newsletter with new fresh articles every week, Kitchen, Basement, Bathroom improvements and many other subjects at Do It Yourself Tips

Vintage Decor and Ideas for Your Home

Shabby Chic, also known as Vintage, is the idea of incorporating accessories, furniture, and household items from the years 1900-1950 to decorate your home. But what makes this dcor a popular decorating style? It provides a comfortable and casual look through the use of Vintage accessories, new dcor that looks old, pastels, comfy light painted furniture, lace tablecloths, dreamy soft floral fabrics, wrought iron curtain rods with sheer curtains, and vivid fresh flowers. The idea of combining the old with the new opens up endless possibilities when selecting Shabby Chic home dcor and furnishings.

Imagine visiting your grandparents and snuggling in comfortable soft furniture, while being surrounded by colorful fresh flowers and the soft scent of candles. This style can create the same sensation for your own home. It balances elegant items with old and worn, silver accessories with painted wood tables, and soft area rugs with old lace.

If your budget is limited, Shabby Chic decorating is the perfect solution. You can scour some of the great websites noted below for Shabby Chic home dcor.

Shabby Chic and Vintage use furniture that is worn, along with stylish items and things that look old. Therefore, you have a varied range of choices for furniture and home dcor.

Consider the following ideas as a guide:

A fresh coat of paint is a great way of giving old furniture pieces some Shabby Chic appeal. You can also update older upholstered furniture through the use of slip covers or large throws. For small tables, such as side tables, coffee tables, or consoles, look for pieces that feature carved wood as a focal point. When looking for Shabby Chic furniture, take measures to avoid bright bold colors or matching sets. Instead, try to mix and match the upholstery style with floral patterns, along with striped pillows and other accessories.

To accent your walls, you can include carved wood or metal shelves, which can be purchased in antique stores, gift shops, garage sales, and antique fairs. Again, a little paint on these items goes a long way because you will add a special touch to your dcor. For instance, you can incorporate an ornate wrought iron corner shelf and display antique collectibles or crocheted dollies for a vintage look. Furthermore, you can look for old doors, windows, mantels, garden gates, house shutters, and wrought iron, which can be used as wall hangings or even used to replace existing doors to add charm.

For lighting, you can use a floral print or solid colored fabric lamp shade for the right splash of color and display it against surfaces that are distressed. Wrought iron, wood mirrors, or picture frames with white, natural, or distressed finishes blend well in a Shabby Chic room. If you want to add a unique touch to this dcor, apply weathered paint to towel racks in the bathroom or kitchen. And lets not forget to include candleholders or a candelabra. You can give these items a distressed finish in white or ivory for that shabby chic look.

Giorgina Devereaux is the creator of AskGiorgina.com, which features questions, answers, and ideas on home decor and furniture. For more information, please visit http://www.AskGiorgina.com

Bathroom Design Ideas - Decorating Can Be A Fun And Pleasant Experience

If you are preparing to build a new bathroom or to renovate an old one, you will like to consider some bathroom design ideas which will help you to make it the most efficient and the most attractive that you have ever had in your home.

Designing the perfect bathroom does not need to be a time-consuming or difficult chore. In fact, you may find that it is a quite pleasant experience. Whether you are starting from scratch or simply making some improvements, designing the room of your dreams can be fun.

What Do You Want Your Bathroom To Be?

The best way to start is by thinking about the specific needs and tastes of you and your family members. When you have this in mind, you will be prepared to begin making decisions about the styles of furnishings and color-schemes. It is also helpful if you consider the type of appearance that you would like your bathroom to have -- for example, do you want your room to be casual and functional, a haven for relaxation, or something special primarily designed for your guests? When you have the answers to these basic questions, this will give you a good foundation on which to base your choices.

Children's Requirements

The specific types of furnishings that you select are best chosen on the basis of what is most appropriate for the use of your bathroom. If you have small children or active teenagers, you may prefer sturdy furnishings that are not easily damaged. A bathroom that will serve for the use of young children would be best if safety is the key factor, such as locked cabinets, and furniture which does not have sharp edges.

If your bathroom will "belong" only to adults, the sky is the limit with its potential-- reflecting your personality and your own individuality, it can be anything from a romantic hideaway for a couple, a lovely spot for your guests, or simple and efficient for those who have little time at home before and after a busy work day.

Bathing Essentials

After you have decided which types of furnishings will work the best for your bathroom, the next step is to add the "essentials" such as bath linens. You may also like to include nice little extras such as toilet seat covers and either fluffy or rubber bath mats. If you have decided on a color-scheme for your bathroom, these items can enhance that theme.

When you have covered all of the items which are necessary for your bathroom, you can add decorative touches so your room will look even better. Depending on your own individual interests, these can include baskets of greenery, small earthenware pottery, fancy bead work-- let your imagination be your guide!

It is not difficult to turn a plain room into the bathroom of your dreams. All you need to do is to incorporate your own personal sense of style into what is both practical and beautiful in appearance, and you will have the bathroom design ideas you will need to make it your favorite room in your home.

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

DIY Home Flooring Improvement - Building a Floor Deck

It can sound complicated with the plethora of equipment needed. But if we actually think about it, the equipment is pretty easy to obtain. You will need basics such as your measuring tape, hammer and drill. A few dozen galvanized bolts and screws to hold the structure together, with the braces, joists and posts. You will also need to use concrete bags and gravel, thinner and stain to paint your deck with.

Home Design Software - First, take advantage of the latest technology, and utilize one of the home design software packages that are available. You have choices that can help with the materials and equipment needed, in the calculation of costs and the designs and even local building codes.

Material - Once the design of your deck is set, you'll need to consider materials. Good options are redwoods, cedar or pine in pressure treated sizes like 2 x 4's, 2 x 6's and 4 x 4. There are also several newer options. There are many composite materials on the market today that resemble wood in appearance and feel. Such materials will seem more costly in the beginning but it can give years to your deck's life span and is worth the initial outlay. In addition, they do16A5 not twist out of shape unlike wood and you need not stain it.

Foundation - The basics for a lasting deck. If you are uncertain about how to go about preparing the ground and pouring concrete, or making vertical anchors, you can look for professional help for this stage. Other than this, you should be able to tackle all other aspects of deck building with minimal assistance.

Pier Spacing - Check the building codes in your area to find out the recommended support pier spacing. Make your support distances equal to or less than the 8 or 12 foot length that most lumber is available in. It will be simpler for you as it reduces the number of cuts needed.

Sealing - Usually there are ledger boards that lay up against the house to support the beams (joists) under the walking surface. Sometimes they have a Z-shaped flashing that lays on the ledger board top and side surfaces, up against the house.

Metal flashing can twist out of shape in due time as temperature fluctuates even when it was set up properly. Do cover up screw holes to lessen the chances of moisture causing damage.

Space the ledger board away from the wall using metal washers. So, you might not have to remove siding and it can reduce moisture that can result in corrosion and mold.

Use Screws and Bolts - Instead of nails, use screws and bolts wherever you can. Almost all nails will eventually rust, and stain tends to not stick to them. Although they will also rust over time, screws will not become loose like most nails will.

Using screws, however, is more time consuming than simply pounding in nails. You can make your job faster utilizing a power screwdriver attachment on the hand drill.

No matter what methods you use to build your deck, careful design and attention to detail will always give you the best results. This will help you save hundreds in repair bills later on.

Moses Wright loves to help fellow home improvement enthusiast whenever he is free. He sets up a site to provide more info on Home Remodeling Contractor and resources on Do-It-Yourself Kitchen Remodeling

Installing Drywall: Mudding and Taping

Installing Drywall, or hanging drywall as the professionals usually refer to the task, can be done by the homeowner. However, it is usually best done with two or more people as it requires significant lifting of heavy material. Mudding and Taping can also be performed by the homeowner, however these tasks require some practice and artistry.

Measuring and Ordering Drywall

Prior to actually hanging the drywall, the material first needs to be ordered and delivered. To determine how much material to order, measure all of the surface area, starting with the ceilings and then the walls. Calculate the total square feet and divide by 32. The result should give you the number of 4x 8 sheets of drywall required for the job. I would also recommend adding another 5-10% to this figure to account for inefficiencies. Drywall does come in larger sheets, such as 4x12, however for a Do-it-Yourself homeowner these larger sheets can become unwieldy and maybe even impossible to bring into the existing home.

For bathrooms or other moist areas Greenboard should probably be used as this material is moisture resistance.

For bathroom areas where ceramic tile is to be applied, e.g. Shower/Bathtub areas, Concrete board should be used. The concrete board is also referred to as Wonderboard or Durock.

Joint Compound and Fiberglass tape will also be required for Taping and Mudding. Joint Compound typically comes ready-mixed in 5 gallon containers. I would suggest 1-2 containers per 500 square feet of drywall. Fiberglass tape is quite inexpensive so I would suggest picking up 2 to 3 roles for most Do-it-Yourself drywall projects.

Drywall screws or ringed nails will also be required. Typically I use 1.25 length screws or nails. Also, strips of corner bead will be required.

Drywall Tools

Prior to starting drywall installation, you need to obtain the proper tools. A Drywall Lift really comes in handy when hanging sheetrock/drywall on the ceilings. You can rent Drywall Lifts at hardware or home improvement stores. If your budget does not allow for this cost, Jacks (or Ts) can be made out of 2x 4s. The Jacks (or Ts) should be of a length such that they are just an inch or two taller than the height of the ceiling and have a cross beam that is approximately 3 in width. Usually there are a couple of 45o angle braces connecting the crossbar to the main stem of the Jack. The Jack can then be used to hold up the drywall to the ceiling while it is screwed/nailed into place.

In addition to the Lift or Jacks, a drywall screw gun, hammer, T-square, carpenters knife, drywall saw and a keyhole saw are required. The keyhole saw is used for cutting around electrical boxes.

If mudding and taping are to be performed then Taping knifes, a Corner knife, sand paper, a pole sander and a Mud easel or pan will be necessary. For the taping knifes you will need a 6 wide blade and a 12 wide blade.

Preparing the site for Drywall

Prior to hanging the drywall, make sure the building inspector has first approved the Framing, Plumbing, Electrical and Insulation jobs. Secondly, a vapor barrier should be applied over the insulation on the outside walls if un-faced insulation was installed. Frequently sheets of plastic are used for creating the vapor barrier. The plastic is simply stapled to the framing, covering the insulation.

Finally, inspect all of the framing carefully. Ensure that nailers (e.g. 2 x 4s) are existent at each corner and header, that the framing is straight, and that the framed walls create smooth planes. In addition, the ceiling should have strapping applied (1 x 3 cross boards). Also, make sure metal protection plates have been installed to studding where sheetrock screws or nails could inadvertently penetrate plumbing pipes or electrical wire.

Safety

Drywall installation is dirty, heavy work. The Gypsum in drywall can be irritating to the eyes, lungs and sinuses so wear safety goggles and masks to avoid breathing in the material. Gloves are also recommended to protect against sharp blades.

Installing Drywall

Start with the ceiling as this will allow the sheets on the walls to help hold the sheets on the ceiling. Use the Drywall lift or Jacks to hold the sheets in place while screwing or nailing them to the ceiling. The screws or nails should be installed such that they are slightly recessed and create a small dimple without breaking the paper. Screws or nails should be applied every 8 to 12 inches on each stud. Screws are typically stronger and can be placed further apart, e.g. 12 inches. It is best to fasten the screws/nails to the edges of the drywall first and then fill in the field afterwards.

Rows of drywall should be applied in a staggered pattern. This will create an interlocked pattern that creates a tighter and stronger ceiling/wall.

After the ceiling has been completed it its time to move on to the walls. Drywall should be applied from the top down, with the sheets hung perpendicular to the floor joists or studs. Again the rows should be staggered. The bottom piece should sit about inches from the sub-floor.

For purposes of efficiency and strength it is best to apply the large sheets of drywall over the doors and window openings and cut out the excess later. This will create stronger/cleaner looking walls and save significant time.

Installing Corner bead

Once the drywall has been installed, corner bead should be applied to all outside edges. Corner bead should be nailed every 6-8 inches and penetrate the framing.

Taping and Mudding

Again start with the ceiling. Apply a skim coat of joint compound over the surface of a seam using a 6 wide taping knife. If the seam is wide, apply a liberal amount of joint compound to fill it. While the Joint compound is still wet, apply the fiberglass tape over the skim coat of Joint Compound. Make sure the seam is centered under the tape. Once the tape has been installed, apply additional Joint Compound over the tape, again using the 6 wide taping knife. Continue this for all of the seams. Note: the tape will still be visible. Additional coats will eventually hide it.

The inside corners are usually the most tricky and require practice. Patience is the best advice and note that additional coats will be applied later to smooth out any imperfections.

Once the seams are done, using the 6 wide taping knife, apply mud to all of the screw/nail dimples. A skim coat is all that is initially required.

Note: When applying the mud over the tape and screw/nail dimples, make sure all excess material and uneven patches are smoothed down with the blade. This will reduce sanding later.

Once the ceiling is done, you can move on to the walls. Repeat the same process, however with the outside corners just apply a liberal coat of joint compound to the valley that is formed by the corner bead. This valley typically represents the first 3 or 4 inches from the edge of the corner.

Once the first coat has been applied let it sit overnight or until it is dry, prior to starting the second application of Joint compound. Make sure to completely clean off the taping knife, the mud easel and any other containers or instruments that have mud on them prior to finishing up for the day.

Applying the Second Coat of Mud

After the first coat has thoroughly dried, it is now time to apply the second coat of mud. It is this coat that should hide the tape.

Again, start with the ceiling. Using the wider taping knife apply a generous amount of joint compound over the taped seams as you want to build up the area over the tape. Taking large strokes smooth the joint compound over the tape applying more pressure to the side of the taping knife further away from the tape. This will help to leave more mud over the tape. When complete, the mud should cover an area that extends beyond the width of the tape by 2 to 3 inches.

After the seams have all been completed, apply a second coat of mud over the screw/nail dimples. With this second coat, flare out the mud over the dimples such that the diameter of the mudded area is about 3-4 inches in diameter.

For the inside corners a Corner knife may come in handy. Corners involve a little artistry so again take your time. Apply a generous amount of joint compound and then run the Corner knife down the corner starting from the top. Take long, even strokes. A 6 taping knife may also be helpful to smooth out any imperfections.

For the outside corners, using the broad taping knife apply a generous amount of joint compound and flare out the material such that it extends out 6 inches or so from the corner. Again, apply more pressure to the blade side that is further away from the corner so that you leave more mud nearer the outside corner.

Once the second coat has been applied let it sit overnight or until it is dry, prior to starting the final application of Joint compound. Make sure to completely clean off the taping knife, the mud easel and any other containers or instruments that have mud on them prior to finishing up for the day.

Applying the Final Coat of Mud

After the first coat has thoroughly dried, it is now time to apply the final coat of mud. It is this coat that requires the most artistry and the least amount of joint compound. Here you are simply applying a final skim coat to the already mudded areas.

Prior to applying the skim coat it is best to take your wide taping blade and lightly pass over the mudded surfaces. This will remove any bumps or ridges.

Again start with the ceiling seams and apply a small amount of joint compound using the broad taping knife. Again continue to flare out the seam by extending the mudded area such that about 6 inches resides on each side of the now invisible tape. Remember this is a skim coat so little mud is required. The purpose of this coat is to effectively fill in any lines or recessed areas.

After the seams have all been completed, apply a final coat of mud over the screw/nail dimples. With this second coat, flare out the mud over the dimples such that the diameter of the mudded area is about 6-8 inches in diameter.

For the corners use the broad taping knife and add just enough mud such that you can flare out the mudded surface area to about 8-12 inches, taking care to filling in any lines or dimples.

Once the final coat has been applied let it rest overnight or until it is dry,

Sanding

Sanding is a very dusty and dirty mess so please uses goggles and a mask. I find it best to use a pole sander with an open screened sand paper material specifically designed for sanding sheetrock/drywall mud.

Lightly sand all of the taped areas, however concentrate sanding on the outer edges of the mudded areas such that all seams and ridges are eliminated and blend into the main surface areas.

Once sanding is complete, vacuum up the dust and you are ready for priming and painting the walls and texturing the ceilings.

Me_Donovan@comcast.net
http://www.homeadditionplus.com
http://www.homeaddition.blogspot.com

Over the past 20+ years Mr. Donovan has been involved with building homes and additions to homes. His projects have included: building a vacation home, building additions and garages on to existing homes, and finishing unfinished homes. Mr. Donovan's formal education and profession have been as an Electrical Engineer and Marketing Manager.

Close Up Of Large Drywall Gap

Granite Tile: Stone Cold Beauty

Granite is a decorative natural st1C84one that is truly eye-catching, delivering a unique, classy look to any interior or exterior. Granite is as durable as it is beautiful, being one of the hardest substances on earth. Also, to the question of usage and longevity, with proper care, your granite tile project can last a lifetime, transforming a foyer, a kitchen, or even in an outdoor installation (provided youve chosen a non-slip, unpolished finish) into a key feature of a property. Granite tile flooring is, in many cases, the obvious choice for those interested in any kind of natural stone tile flooring or countertops material.

The origins of granite

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

Granite at the Quarry

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

Popular uses for granite tile for flooring and countertops

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

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

Caring for granite tile flooring and countertops

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

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

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

Granite: All this and brains too!

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

Granite Tile Dos and Donts

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

Do:

Consider the area where you intend to install granite tile. Make sure that factors such as moisture levels, foot traffic, and slip resistance are carefully considered. Consider what type of surface is the best polished, honed, or brushed (AKA flamed) are popular varieties in granite tile, each better suited to certain areas than others. Polished granite is great for countertops and low traffic areas, but often becomes slippery when wet. Honed flooring is more all-purpose, but may 5B4be considered less decorative by some. Brushed or flamed granite tile is most commonly used outdoors

Read all warranty information before purchase

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dont:

Install granite tile on an uneven, dirty or wet subfloor

Leave spills to sit on your granite tile flooring or counter9ADtops. It is important to avoid excessive moisture as this is what contributes to the wear of any building material. Also, liquids with an acid base are often culprits of stubborn stains

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mold Allergy And Other Mold

Bath Accessories for Easy Bathroom Makeover

Recognizing the latest trends in bathroom designing, everybody sees the potential for their own bathrooms with just a little accessorizing and a few small changes. No need to change out the shower and fixtures! Bath accessories have undergone a tremendous change in the way they are designed with increase in utility and comfort levels.

Today, so many quality bathroom accessories are manufactured and available in the market that you may have a tough time choosing the right one to enhance the look and feel of your room. Beautiful accessories can really transform it into a spa-like atmosphere.

At first thought, many people think that decorating is going to be expensive. We know that this secluded corner of the house needs to be clean and functional, but what about beautiful and chic? The idea to glamorize this private area of your home has been gaining momentum, and people have become more conscious about the look and feel of the powder room, besides the practicality.

Smart decorating can give any room an inviting appeal, and when it comes to the bathroom, it's no different. We all want it to smell clean and fresh, but let's move beyond just clean and into the realm of fabulous! (Fabulous on a budget at least.)

4 quick, easy and inexpensive ways to freshen up with bath accessories: door hardware, cabinet hardware, and paint and aromatherapy.

1. New Cabinet Hardware

New cabinet hardware is such an easy way to transform the look of your bathroom! Various knobs and handles enhance the beauty of doors and drawers of the cabinets under the basin or on the wall.

Choosing the right cabinet hardware that perfectly suits your bathroom is a difficult task as many aspects need to be considered. You should consider the design of the cabinets when choosing new hardware.

Whether you are looking out for a decorative cabinet hardware, simple cabinet hardware or an antique cabinet hardware, it's important to research well before you make a purchase decision.

Also, you want to consider buying new cabinet hardware that attaches the same as any existing knobs you may have. If your handles have two screws attaching them to the cabinet doors, buy new styles and shapes of handles, but make sure they have the same two screws, so you won't have to drill more holes. It should be mentioned that if the handles have two screws, you want to measure the distance between the screws. These can differ also.

2. Matching Bath Accessories

If you are considering new cabinet hardware, you want to look at new bath accessories in towel bars, toilet paper holders, towel rings, and shower rods, all in matching styles. You can match all of these things regardless of if its style is Italian, French, traditional or modern.

Some of the more popular patinas are chrome and brushed nickel, with oil rubbed bronze being the newest trend.

3. Fresh Coat of Paint

The wonders of a fresh coat of paint! Even if you choose the same color, a fresh coat without all of the nicks and marks can make the room feel so clean. If your room looks drab and dull, you can add a touch of bright colors to enlighten the room and try some textures in painting as well.

Don't forget the paint sheen - this can make a huge difference.

Flat paint has a matte finish. It doesn't reflect light and is good at hiding bumps and nicks on the wall.

Satin paint (sometimes called eggshell), has a slight shine, and it lasts longer and is more stain resistant than flat.

Semi gloss paint has more luster than satin paint and is easy to clean. It's best if you think you may be scrubbing the walls.

Gloss paint is hard and shiny and hides. It's most stain resistant, but it enhances imperfections on the wall surface that it is used. It is usually used for base boards, trim and cabinets.

4. Aromatherapy

Now that you have everything looking so great, buy a few scented candles to increase the spa appeal. Or go flameless with a plug-in oil warmer in a clean scent to really make this your escape!

Once you are done with remodeling and the recreation of your bathroom, indulge in a nice long bubble bath and pamper yourself.

With beautiful new 222Ebath accessories and cabinet hardware, your bathroom can feel like an oasis! To see a wide variety of what's new and available in bath accessories, visit CKI Lock online at http://www.ckilock.com/.

Mixed Wood Siding

From Basement to Beautiful - Steps to Waterproofing and Finishing your Basement

The Monster in the Basement

Picture this: Your upstairs floor leaks whenever it rains. Water is dripping in and pooling on the floor. Even when it's not raining, it always seems to be damp, humid, and musty up there. Everything you store there grows mold, and if you've laid wood floor and carpet, it's growing moldy, rotting, and the wood is buckling. The windows are rusting and jammed, with spider webs growing in them, and the floor is cold and clammy underfoot. The ceiling is sagging and moldy. Simply put: your upstairs is ugly, uncomfortable and unhealthy. You avoid it whenever you can. Under any circumstances, is this acceptable? Of course not!

Then why would you let these conditions develop DOWNstairs?

You shouldn't. It's unacceptable. A basement represents an entire floor's worth of space- a gigantic percentage of the potential living space in your home. To allow it to go unused is to deny the full potential of your home. And given the current housing market, this is a fantastic time to think about taking full advantage of every bit of space available in your home.

Make the Most of What You've Got!

Finishing your basement runs at about 50% of the cost of adding a new addition to your home. Remodeling Online reports that nationwide, finishi5B4ng a basement can increase the resale value of a home by about 61%-97% of the cost of the installation! If you'd like to see the full report by Remodeling online. stop by http://costvalue.remodelingmagazine.com/index.html .

All numbers aside, if your basement is leaking, you have an opportunity to take a problem in your home and change it into an asset. Here are some disadvantages to a damp basement:

1. If you have cement or block basement walls or floors, water collecting around your foundation in the looser backfilled earth is seeping through your porous cement basement structure. Even if your basement walls do not look damp, you can be sure that the moisture is seeping through and being pulled up by the air, much like the dirt in a potted plant does when the soil is wet but the surface is dry.

2. Humid basement air creates a reliable environment for mold growth. If you allow that moisture to remain, there's nothing stopping mold from collecting on any and all organic surfaces in your basement, including drywall, carpet, and hardwood floors.

3. If your basement has a musty smell, that would be from the airborne fecal material from dust mites and mold spores in your basement air. Because this air travels upwards in your house (like in a chimney), these airborne materials will rise through your house and enter your lungs when you breathe. This has been known to create and intensify a variety of breathin5B4g related ailments.

4. A leaking basement is not a reliable storage space. Any valuables you have there will be vulnerable to the flooding conditions.

A Beautiful Living Space

If you want to use your basement as a clean, dry area instead not using it and keeping it as a moldy, wet and health-compromising space, then you have no reason to invest in it. However, this is what your basement could become:

• A beautiful family room with couches, game tables and a TV
• A naturally quiet and secluded-feeling home office
• A home theater with a flat screen mounted on a hardboard wall
• A personal gym with mats, weights and treadmills
• A safe, secluded play room for the children
• A beautiful and sophisticated wine cellar

To accomplish this, you're going to want basement finishing and remodeling products that can create a vapor barrier between your living space and the cold, wet basement surfaces. On the walls, I'd recommend a solid, free-standing cement board and hard foam insulation so you can attach shelves, pictures, a plasma TV or anything else to their surface without concern. Your windows should be double paned vinyl windows for optimal insulation and soundproofing. On the ceiling, you're going to want a drop ceiling that will absorb noise from the basement and above floors alike. The floors should be laid down in a way that b5B4locks water vapor from the basement floor and creates a thermal break on your basement floors so they don't feel as cold as the concrete below. Finally, ALL surfaces installed in the basement will need to be resilient to water damage.

Even if a basement is completely waterproofed and a vapor barrier is placed on all surfaces, your basement is still susceptible to leaks from water heaters, bursting pipes, overflowing sinks, bathtubs, toilets, dishwashers, refrigerators, washing machines, and the countless other things that hold water and can run downhill, creating a flood in your basement.

The Best Basement Waterproofing Contractor and Basement Remodeling Experts for You

It's important to find a basement remodeling contractor that is still going to be in business if you need to service your installation or have warranty work done. The small business administration reports that 50% of contractors have their business fail within the first year and over 96% within five years. It's best to pick a company that you're confident will still be there when you need them.

DryGuys Basement Systems of New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland have been in business for more than 20 years and would like to help you with your basement waterproofing and finishing- as well as your foundation repair, dehumidif5B4ication, and crawlspace encapsulation needs. Our basement waterproofing system will keep your basement from leaking while our finishing products create vapor barriers on all concrete basement surfaces. Our Total Basement Finishing basement finishing ideas insulate the room and make the whole house more energy efficient.

Our finished basement wall panels can each hold a weight of up to 300 pounds, making them perfect for mounting heavy shelving, plasma TVs, large pictures or whatever your heart desires. Our windows are made of vinyl framing and beautiful crystal clear double thermopane glass, making them more than twice as long-lasting and almost three times better as an insulator than single paned steel basement windows. None of our products support mold growth, and they're all either water resistant or completely waterproof. We offer a written warranty, a long history of business, and the international support of Basement Systems, the largest network of basement waterproofing contractors in the world. There's no doubt that we'll be here if you need us. Call or visit us for a free no obligation estimate, and we'd be happy to answer any questions you have.

DryGuys Basement Systems
20 N. Main Street
Woodstown, NJ 08098
(800) 462-3191
http://www.dryguys.com

Elegant Limestone Tiles

A New Bathroom Vanity Can Transform the Room

It may be time to remodel, or give your hallway bathroom with the 1970's decor a facelift. Perhaps you just want a design change to reflect your personal style. Whatever reasons you may have for tackling your bathroom as the next home improvement project, one of the most important furniture pieces you will need to select with care is a single bathroom vanity or a double bathroom vanity. The bathroom vanity tends to be the focal point or centerpiece in any bathroom so finding the right one is important.

Before you get started on your bathroom home improvement project, take the time to measure the space you will have for all your fixtures. If you are replacing the shower and toilet, measure these spaces and the size of the new fixtures you would like to put in their place. When measuring for your bathroom vanity, you will want to decide if you would like a single bathroom vanity or a double bathroom vanity. If you have a small space to work with or only one person uses the lavatory each day, a single vanity will be the obvious choice. However if you have the space, a double vanity is always a luxurious upgrade for your bathroom especially if more than one person at a time will be using it everyday.

Another thing to keep in mind when remodeling your bathroom is the interior design theme you are trying to create. When choosing a new bathtub, sink, vanity, or even the plumbing fixtures, consistency with a design theme is key. Whether you like antique, rustic wood, traditional, or contemporary styles for your new bathroom make sure that all elements work together to create a cohesive look. Nothing feels worse than spending all the money, time, and effort on re-doing your bathroom only to be dissatisfied with the final result because it just doesn't all work together.

There are many places to find vanities and such for your project, but one of the best places to find the lowest prices for your bath and shower fixtures or for discount bathroom vanities is online. If you take your time to find the right online company to do business with, you can find the best price for your new vanity, as well as get added discounts like free shipping or other incentives. Shopping online also helps you save time and energy, because you never have to leave home to find the perfect bathroom furniture and fixtures.

So no matter what reason you have for remodeling your bathroom make sure you do your homework to find the best bathroom vanity and other fixtures that may need replacing. Measure the space you have to work with in your bathroom decide on the decor theme you want to create with your bathroom facelift, and try shopping online for your bathroom vanity, shower, bathtub, and other accessories online for the best prices.

If you would like more information on bathroom vanities online, single bathroom vanities or double bathroom vanities, please visit Premiere Vanities.

Basics

Snagging And The House Builder

To not snag a new house before moving in is a receipe for considerable problems that could manifest themselves after the builder has long gone.

These days the house building industry is populated by mainly publicly owned companies who have share holders breathing down their necks to keep profits up. The builder will then do anything to keep costs down as low as possible with scant regard to quality. The net result is poor quality work requiring remedial maintenance or worse a total rebuild of the offending problem.

To achieve the lowest build cost the builders will subcontract almost all the elements of the building process and just act as project managers.

In effect many subcontractors have little or no actual project management and are often left up to their own devices for long periods of time.

Over the years this has resulted in a general "work to the lowest" level acceptable rather than to the highest standards. On the basis that those customers that complain will have the remedial works carried out those that do not just live with the problems.

This low standard of work has resulted in subcontractors recruiting many untrained workers masquerading as qualified builders. The Author noted a large sign on a new building site in southern England " Wanted Bricklayers. Great rates no experience required" one shudders at the brickwork that resulted.

The one action a house buyer must take before completion is to carry out a full and in-depth Snagging meeting with the site manager.

This meeting should not be confused with the property handover where the workings of the house are explained, boiler, heating etc. The Snagging meeting should just be to inspect the property and identify any part of the property that requires remedial work prior to the owner moving in.

Site managers are quite adept at delegating this meeting to site (sales) offices. A prudent purchaser will insist that the site manager is present, capable of taking notes and has allocated the time to properly carry out the Snagging meeting.

During the meeting the builder is unlikely to assist you in finding faults they will just follow along (usually looking miserable) and take notes.

It is important that the purchaser takes detailed notes on all items that are unacceptable to compile a Snagging report that the builder will give to the various tradesmen following the meeting. By using a digital camera to record items of particular interest you can be sure of a very accurate and undisputable record.

The meeti16D0ng can be very stressful unless you ensure good preperation has been undertaken. This would include a Snagging list of items to inspect, the correct tools for the meeting and a method of recording the meeting for future reference.

Overall the purchaser must make sure they conduct a full and detailed inspection of all parts of the building to ensue that the Snagging list is compiled. This list should then be copied and enough copies given to the builder for them to give to the various tradesmen to carry out the remedial work.

John Mills is an Estate Agency director and has extensive new house buying experience. John advises all his clients to Snag their new homes with vigour and to take copious notes. The builder is not your friend. http://www.snagging-guide.co.uk

Why You Need a Qualified Realtor When You Build a New Home

Myth #1: You don't need a realtor when you build a new home because you can save a commission and, therefore, get a better deal from the builder.

Myth #2: You don't need a realtor since you will be working directly with the builder. The builder will take care of the financing, the title company, and all of the administrative paperwork associated with the purchase of a new home.

Myth #3: Realtors know little or nothing of construction, so why would you need one? A realtor would just be in the way.

Let's discuss Myth #1:

New home construction prices are generally based on the builder's cost plus their profit or markup. In most cases, homebuilders either have a marketing budget, which includes commissions or they use a percentage profit or markup which includes a commission. What generally happens when a buyer/client works directly with a builder is that the builder p1C64ockets the commission as additional profit. Most builders or their salespersons will advise you that their is no need for you to have a real estate agent. It is important to remember that builders represent themselves; not you as the client.

Myth #2:

Builders will make it seem simpler without a realtor and that having one is really not necessary. This might be true if the builder represented your interests instead of theirs. Do you think he does? Did you know that most homebuilders have their own mortgage and title companies, not for your interest, but for theirs? The builders need their lender and title companies to finance their business and buy your lot and others. This is big business for both of them and be assured that those relationships favor the builder's interest way ahead of yours.

Myth #3:

Remember the title of this article says "qualified realtor". The very best arrangement is for you, the buyer, to have a qualified, seasoned, realtor to represent you in a real estate transaction. Would you represent yourself in a lawsuit? Would you represent yourself in probably the largest investment you will ever make...your home? Interview a few realtors to determine their knowledge, experience, and success on new builds. You can ask them to justify the commission dollar wise, but remember, as discussed above, you are not the one who will be paying the commission.

Here are some of the things that a realtor should and will do for you if they are qualified:

- Most buyers will use a builders floor plan without consulting an architect. A good realtor will insist on a professional architects input. Because architects will introduce ideas and standards that builders want to avoid, builders will almost always discourage a buyer from using one.

- Typically, 4-6 meetings are conducted between the builder and the buyer before a contract is executed. Usually the buyer signs the contract on the spot. However, if a realtor is present, the realtor insists on waiting several days so that additional negotiations can take place. A good realtor may require more than one additional meeting to ensure the buyer gets the best contract price possible.

- Most buyers will do only a walk-through with the builder. A good realtor will insist on an inspection by a licensed professional prior to closing and will attend the inspection with the buyer.

In conclusion, having a qualified realtor to represent your interests when having a new home built is essential. Although the builder will do their best to make it seem otherwise, the commission saved will go back into their pocket and not yours. A real estate agent will keep a detailed account of the builder's actions and make sure that you are getting the most home for the money. The best part is that there is no additional cost to you. So when you go to buy a new home, find a seasoned realtor. It makes sense.

Bill Remington is a Prosper Texas real estate agent and friend of the Dallas Realtors Blog, a forum which discusses Dallas TX real estate