Things To Consider When You Modernize Your Bathroom

In a recent survey of home owners 75 per cent of those who 18 months ago were thinking about moving house are now going to stay put and look at modernising their current home. And with the current state of the housing market on both sides of the Atlantic who can blame people. So of these people which parts of the home are most likely to have money spent on them to modernise them and bring them up to date?

An obvious candidate for modernisation is the bathroom, for so long a neglected room in the house, the modern bathroom is now becoming a real status symbol.

This is in the main down to the fact that it is now possible to actually make a feature out of the smallest room, on top of this fact most homes now have at least one en-suite bathroom. The beauty of modernising a bathroom is that you can really spoil yourself with how you bring it up to date. Unlike most rooms in the house the bathroom is a very personal room so the additions and changes that you make to it are really only there for your convenience. When modernising a living room everyone gets to benefit from a new television set or couch just as with the kitchen, everyone gets to benefit from a new oven, fridge or kitchen units, but a bathroom is yours.

The bathroom really has moved into the modern age, just visit any plumbers merchant or bathroom store and look around at the gadgets and gizmo's that are now available to adorn your bathroom.

You may even decide to stick with a plain old white sink but bring it up to date with your choice of taps, these can make a huge difference to what may be a standard white wash basin. A set of antique look taps on a standard sink, along with a wise choice in bathroom tiles can give the bathroom the look of an old country cottage, whereas a sharp clinical pair of modern design taps on a plain white sink, coupled with the use of some bold glass tiles and a striking bathroom mirror can give a very futuristic look to your bathroom.

Self closing toilet seats which instead of closing with an almighty crash when you let go of them, slowly close to a stop, a bit like watching treacle running off a spoon. Under floor heating which warms through your bathroom tiles so when you wake up and go to the bathroom you don't have to tip toe across a freezing cold tiled bathroom floor.

Sinks also now come in all shapes and sizes, in the old days you were restricted to two types of sink, both the same design but one was white and the other was a horrible avocado colour, not exactly spoilt for choice. Today you can pick from many differing designs and colours, white still being the most popular choice but available in so many more different styles.

It is possible to add quite a bit of monetary value and chic to a bathroom without spending vast sums of money. Likewise it is possible to get the same effect as above but by spending a small fortune on the bathroom.

For instance, you can now get a shower enclosure that comes complete with a steam and sauna facility as well as built in seat and radio for your comfort and if you'd like a massage then just get to your feet and the high pressure water jets from the side of the enclosure will blast away your aches and pains. All this is a bit different from when I was a child, all we had back then was two rubber cups that fitted over the taps to channel the water through a shower head, the height of high - tech!

If the thought of an all singing, all dancing shower doesn't appeal to you what about a remote controlled shower that up to five different people can pre-set their favourite temperature, no more messing around trying to find the ideal setting. These showers can be turned on and off at the press of a button from up to 10 metres away and will even tell you when the shower is up to temperature.

So if you're fed up with your current house and would like to move but daren't take the risk in the current climate why not treat yourself and splash some money out on modernising your bathroom, a little bit of money spent here can go a long long way.

I try to pass on my musings on life and experiences in a way that people may find interesting to read.

Bathroom Floor Tiles

You may not always agree with my writings but I hope to inform.

Harwood E Woodpecker

How To Texture A Ceiling

For creating the stipple effect, a "square brush" which contains "flexible rubber prongs" over the surface of the face side of the tool; is used to lightly; "bounce" off, the textured surface. You can also create the same effect, if you roll onto the surface, the texture mix, and keep on rolling over this until a stipple is finally achieved.

The depth on the "finished texture" pattern depends on how thick the consistency of the texture powder is mixed, plus also, how thick you apply the mixed texture material onto the surface to be textured.

To create a final "uniformed" finish, you must make sure that you roll out the applied texture as evenly as possible onto the surface; and keeping it the same depth/level, throughout the whole ceiling.

A lot of new build establishments favour a stipple, broken leather or swirl pattern, usually a stipple pattern can be done quickly, and as texture coating dries out reasonably white doesn't need painting afterwards, thus saving both time and money for the contractor.

In this section I'm going to take a look at the stipple pattern for its uniformed, soft or heavy finish; and the speed at which it can be done.

To achieve1965 this finish, the prepared surface/area to be textured onto has to be as "flat and as level as possible" (Otherwise, any discrepancies and uneven surfaces will show through afterwards).

As this pattern requires the final mixed texture material to resemble a thick emulsion type of paint, I find this one of the messiest patterns to do also.

Mix up a bucket of texture powder, (thick first to get out the lumps).

After letting the thickly mixed texture rest for a few minutes in the bucket, add small amounts of cold water into the texture mix to thin it out.

Then transfer this mixed texture material into the large roller bucket ready for application, and mix once again, using the bumper tool, or drill with the mixing attachment.

When adding cold water to mix down the texture coating to the required consistency, just add a little at a time, as it is not advisable to add powder at this later stage.

The finished product should now resemble thick emulsion paint.

Next step: Decide where to start the pattern onto the ceiling.

I find, when doing a stipple, that the best place to start is furthest away from the room door entrance.

1: Using the large paint roller, attached to the pole/handle, dip the roller head completely into the bucket of mixed texture, to completely cover the roller head. (You can also use a small roller for application if you want.)

2: Lift the roller out and give it a little shake to get rid of the residue, and then sharply offer the loaded roller head to the ceiling surface.

3: Start along the wall edge of the ceiling, (when using the roller, and always extend your straightened arms upwards, and away from you). With a light but firm pressure, pull the roller towards, and above you, to spread the material onto the surface, (rolling on may take a little practise to get right, but this method is used to roll on for any ceiling work.)

4: When you've rolled the texture onto the ceiling, (about 3 foot area coverage) load the roller once again, and roll it onto the ceiling, next to the area that you've just covered.

5: Continue this method until a large area has been coated with the texture mix, probably a third or even half of the ceiling, depending on the size of the area to be covered.

6: When you've completed this; and using the roller again, (but don't load it with texture mix this time), continue to roll out, in the opposite direction of the applied texture, to even out (spread out) the texture coating already applied to the ceiling, otherwise you'll have an uneven finish when you come to stipple it: the thickness of the texture on the ceiling should be about half an inch in depth.

7: The next step is to prime the stipple brush with the mixed texture coating, you can use a large or small stipple brush; but you will get a more uniformed pattern with a large brush, especially if your texturing larger surfaces, making sure a wooden handle is attached to the large stipple brush so that you can reach the ceiling height.

Below is a quick summary:

1: Apply the texture to the surface. Rolling on about a third or even half of the ceiling).

2: Take the roller, (but don't load it with texture mix this time). Roll out onto the ceiling, in the opposite direction of the applied texture to 'even out' the texture already there: otherwise the finished pattern will look uneven.

The next step is to prime the stipple brush.

3: Attach a pole/handle to the stipple brush and hold it so that the soft rubber bristles are pointing upwards.

4: Load the roller head with the texture mix, and gently roll this small amount across the surface of the stipple brush, (the rubber bristles) making sure that you don't squash down or flatten the rubber bristles; once coated with texture we are now ready to stipple the coated area.

5: Stand directly beneath the area to be textured, start along the ceiling/wall edge then lightly bounce the stipple brush onto the ceiling to create the desired effect.

7: Continue stippling and bouncing onto the coated area. (Going to the room door entrance to take a look every now and again, and don't forget, what you can see, so will others-make any adjustments as necessary) continue rolling onto the ceiling, and stippling until complete.

8: Finally, run an inch sized brush around the perimeter of the ceiling to wall line to create a tidy border, and not forgetting the centre rose light also, to tidy up. You can also use a small stipple brush to create this design, but if you're using the large brush, it seems easier to create a more uniformed finish.

The stipple pattern can also be created by just rolling the texture coating onto the surface and then keep rolling the mix out with the roller head until a stipple type pattern is eventually formed.

If you want a heavier stipple effect, mix the thick texture down with cold water as normal but do not add as much water so that you are left with a thicker consistency in the bucket, and then roll this mixture onto the surface, thickly.

A heavy stipple is great for lacing back (flattening slightly) To create an "anaglyptic" looking effect.

Thank you for reading this cut down excerpt from 'TEXTURE REVIVAL'S' full home study workbook course that can be downloaded straight onto your computer desktop for reading.

Dale Ovenstone 2007

Dale Ovenstone: Creator of 'TEXTURE REVIVAL' unique & amazing, downloadable books & guides for the home 'DIY' enthusiast; so that you can 'have a go yourself'

http://www.lookreadlearn.com

Designing for Life - Architecture and Design Psychology

Design psychology is the use of psychology as the fundamental principle for design decisions in architecture and interior design. Cultural patterns of architecture reveal many fundamental principles of design psychology. A group of architects led by Christopher Alexander compiled what they learned about architecture around the world into a book called A Pattern Language (1977, Oxford University Press). This book discusses virtually every aspect of buildings including entrances, windows, hallways, fireplaces, kitchens, sleeping areas, home offices and workshops, walls, and storage spaces.

The research done by these architects revealed the need for people of all cultures to feel safe and nurtured in their homes, neighborhoods and towns. Simple patterns for positive environments included things like designing rooms to have light coming in from at least two sides and more than one entrance or exit if possible. Our eyes are built to handle visual processing with multiple light sources rather than a light from a single direction. This makes seeing more difficult in environments where light is coming from only one direction. In addition, we have an instinctual need for an escape route and recoil psychologically when confronted with cave-like rooms where we may feel trapped.

A closely related field to design psychology is proxemics, the study of cultural differences in personal boundaries and space requirements. Proxemics is intimately connected to design psychology and the placement of physical dividers such as doors and walls. In offices and homes alike, a social order is established by proximity. The offices that are the most distant from the waiting room and closest to the boss are for the most important staff members. Likewise, master bedrooms are usually the most distant from shared spaces such as entryways and living rooms. The rooms closest to the kitchen, family room and gathering areas are for those lowest on the totem pole, usually the children.

Proxemics also has much to do with issues of privacy. Those who have important activities and conversations to engage in need to have their space. When material dividers aren't available, visual and auditory clues can serve to define boundaries. Signs, frosted glass, bells and intercoms can serve to separate places where others are welcome and places where they must have permission to enter.

Design psychology and feng shui share many principles. Although the two approaches often come to the same conclusions, they differ in their foundations. Feng shui practice generally relies on a combination of tradition and intuition and design psychology generally relies on a research model. It could be argued that feng shui is a right-brain approach and design psychology is a left-brain approach. Perhaps a combination of these approaches with equal measures of common sense and practicality will yield the best solutions for architectural environments that meet both the basic and higher needs of their inhabitants.

Kathleen Karlsen, MA is an artist, writer and web design consultant residing in Bozeman, Montana. Kathleen has a bachelor's degree in studio art and a master's degree in humanities. Kathleen is best known for her contemporary impressionism art work including colorful flower paintings, forest paintings and landscape art. Kathleen's original art and small framed art for fine art gifts can be seen at http://www.livingartsoriginals.com

To see Kathleen's unique forest paintings, visit http://www.livingartsoriginals.com/originalforests.htm - For an extensive article on color symbolism, see http://www.livingartsoriginals.com/infocolorsymbolism.htm

Guide to Choosing Bathroom Accessories

Renovating your bathroom can breathe extra life into your whole house, however you must always remember that this room is functional. You cannot make it look clinical because then it wont do the job that it needs to do. To create a functional bathroom you can use accessories to make more of your space. There 5B4is a wide range of different bathroom accessories which should be considered, simple things that can simply be placed on a table, to complicated things that need installing.

Caddies Keep The Shower Clear

Even if you have a stunning bath or shower, the looks can be spoilt by clutter. Clutter always accumulates around the shower and bathtub. By using some clever accessories you can minimize how much of a problem this clutter will cause. You can for example use caddies to store shampoo and soap. Simple bathroom caddies are available which simply hang from the head of your shower. There are also more complicated caddies which require you drilling holes to fit them.

Treat Yourself To Warmth

Tiled floors are becoming very popular in bathrooms, these tiled floors can be made from stone or more commonly ceramics. However these tiled floors are quite cold, this can make them very uncomfortable to walk on, especially if you've just had a nice warm shower. To prevent this becoming a problem you should consider installing electric under floor heating. This must be installed before you lay your floor as it has to be fitted underneath the floor.

Even if you don't want to install an electric heated floor there are alternatives. You could install a towel rack which is heated. This will mean that you will at least have a warm towel when you step out from the shower. These are examples of fairly large bathroom accessories, h5A6owever they can improve how your bathroom feels.

Find A Place To Sit

You should defiantly consider finding somewhere to sit in your bathroom. Whether you intend to sit in the tub, or outside you defiantly need somewhere. Most of these accessories are small stools which allow you to wash your legs easier. These accessories will also make drying your feet a much easier job! Bathroom accessories really can be used to make your bathroom a more inviting and special place which you will enjoy spending time in.

Leroy Calstard routinely creates web pages on news associated to price of drywall and installation prices. His observations on drywall prices can be encountered on http://www.insidewoodworking.com/drywall/drywall_prices.html.

Single Pane Glass Repair in an Aluminum Frame

This week we are going to continue our series on single pane window 5B4glass repair. Let's talk about broken glass in a fixed window, usually referred to as a picture window. The most common type will have metal stops on the outside, around all four edges of the window glass. Sometimes these stops will be held in place with screws, and other times there will be aluminum stops that snap in place. In some rare instances there will be a rubber material in place of metal. If you have the screw type, you remove all of the screws and each piece will come out. If you have the metal snap in stops, carefully pry the stop from the frame using a small, flat screwdriver or a putty knife. You want to start in a corner and work along the stop until it comes out. Don't pry too much because the stops can bend very easily. If you have the rubber type, pry a corner away using the screwdriver, grab it with your fingers, and pull out the rubber. The glass shouldn't fall out because there is a glue or tape on the edge, holding the glass in place.

From here, You can get your measurements for the new piece of glass. The glass edges will be exposed, and you can hook your tape measure to the edge and get your width and height. If there is a hole in the glass, measure the glass thickness. If there isn't a hole, put on some gloves and carefully push on the glass where the crack is located. This will expose the edge so you can measure it. When you go to get the new glass, you're going to need a tube of silicone to replace the g5B4lue or tape holding the glass in place. Once you get the glass home, you need to remove the old glass. Go inside and cut between the glass and frame using a utility knife with a new blade. This will cut away the silicone or tape that is holding the old glass. Be sure to wear heavy gloves during this process to avoid getting cut. Start at the top and cut across from one corner to the other. Then cut down one side, from top to bottom. Do the other side the same way. At this point the glass should fall out. You should place a tarp or sheet under the window to catch the glass as it falls out. Using a stiff putty knife, scrape off the old silicone or tape from the frame. If there were setting blocks on the bottom, be sure to reuse them. They act as shims to raise the glass off the bottom.

Now run a bead of silicone about 3/16" thick around the perimeter of the opening. Grab your new glass on the sides, angle the bottom in and the top out, set the glass on the setting blocks, then slowly raise the glass up into place. Push just hard enough that all four edges of the glass contact the silicone, but not so hard that the glass makes contact with the metal frame. Install your outside stops. Don't clean the glass for 24 hours so the silicone can set up.

Next week I will continue this series on window glass repair.

John Rocc340o has been installing replacement windows since 1978. To learn more, visit How To Install Windows

Installing A Receptacle In A Landscaping Project

Many landscaping projects require a 120 VAC circuit to power lighting and other electrical devices such as pumps for ponds.

The actual placement of a receptacle within your landscaping project needs to be thought out carefully as they are difficult to relocate if you place it wrong the first time.

Installing a receptacle outdoors means purchasing the materials that were designed for the application. Weatherproof utility boxes and outdoor receptacle covers are a necessity if you do not want the circuit to trip every time it rains. Powering the circuit 8A9through a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) is mandatory for safety purposes. It is best if you can install the circuit directly to the main distribution panel powered through a GFCI breaker. If that is impracticable because of access, then the circuit can be powered from a GFCI receptacle. Note: Only one GFCI control device is required on any circuit. All receptacles and devices wired from the GFCI are protected by that one device. Multiple GFCI devices on the same circuit will cause false tripping.

Receptacles should never be placed horizontally, facing up or down, as water will penetrate the device and cause a short circuit. The proper position is vertical. The bottom of the receptacle should be a minimum of 6 above the ground and that includes any mulch that you use as a ground dressing.

When determining the best placement for the receptacle, keep in mind that you will be doing your day-to-day gardening around it. Keep it away from lawnmower paths!

It is also wise to consider where sprinkler heads are located and if possible situate the receptacle face away from the direct impact of sprinkler spray.

Placing receptacles in area that may be inundated with shrubs is not a wise move as someday you will want to be able to plug and unplug electrical devices.

Proper planning in any landscaping project is the key to success!

For additional information on landscaping projects for your home or other renovation projects, visit Renovation Headquarters.

Information Prior To Purchasing A Tub

There are certain people who just expect to get a bathtub when they go inside a home improvement store but they do not take into account issues such as factors influencing the purchase and the setting up procedure. However, there are also some people who prefer to know more information before buying the tub and this is a very good idea. You are one of these people and that's the reason why you are reading this article. By doing this you will have more information and it would make it easier for you to get a good tub.

There are five factors, which you have to consider when getting a new bathtub and they are:

- Measurement of the bathroom: You must find out about your bathroom's measurement if you want to buy a good bathtub that will suit your bathroom. Knowing the measurement of the bathroom will assist you in selecting the right tub size for your bathroom.

- Find out the location where you intend to place the tub: After having measured the dimension of the bathroom, you should make a decision regarding that area of the bathroom where you intend to keep your bathtub. There are few individuals who do not have any problem even if the tub occupies most of the bathroom area. On the other hand there are few individuals who would fret over this matter. Your decision will determine the dimension of the bathtub.

- Select from the various bathtub materials: Plastic, concrete, stone, marble and porcelain are some materials that most bathtubs are made from. It's up to you to make a decision regarding which material would be best for your bathroom. Plastic is not as long lasting as porcelain but then again porcelain is more costly. Some materials look elegant but they are expensive too. These materials are concrete, stone and marble and are most appropriate for exterior whirlpool tubs.

- The shade you prefer: Now that you have decided on the material and size of the tub, you have to make a decision regarding its shade. The producers offer bathtubs of a variety of shades of pale yellow, lavender, lime green and ivory but majority of the people prefer white color. The Internet is the best place to shop for your bathtub.

- Make a contrast between different bathtubs: Now that you have already decided on the shade, I would suggest that you call up the stores that sells the type of bathtub that you have in mind. If you don't want to make any calls then simply look for the bathtub in the Internet. Its really much less complicated than finding a good air compressor system for wood working.

These are the five factors, which you should think of while purchasing a bathtub. I would also suggest you to save this article so that you can take a look at it at the time of purchase. For the purpose of buying a sink or toilet, you can also refer to this article.

Concentrating on latest news in air pressure systems, the author is publishing normally for http://www.insidewoodworking.com You can see his observati2C8ons on air compressor systems and different sources for air compressor systems knowledge.

Wall Cabinets - Small Additions, Big Results

What the British have dubbed a cupboard, the Americans have dubbed a cabinet, but the basic principles, concealment and storage, remain the same. Wall cabinets have moved from the kitchen into every room of the house and are now as useful in the laundry room, living room, media room, bathroom, and garage as they ever were when they were used to display Granny's Royal Worcester.

Wall cabinets, in fact, have become so ubiquitous that they are available at discount retailers as well as home improvement stores, and are those small cabinets of a size ideal for holding everything from decorative teacups to personal toiletries and hand towels. Available in a variety of materials and a wide range of prices, wall cabinets may be equipped with mirrors for bathroom use or with glass doors to show off their elegant contents.

Where To Use Wall Cabinets

Wall cabinets are ideal for apartment dwellers who can use them as bathroom storage units complete with mirrors; such wall cabinets are highly functional and can make the most of the limited space in bathrooms Bathroom wall cabinets can be situated within easy reach of the shower and tub, to hold the soaps, shampoos, and after bath lotions. Or they can be placed over the sink and used to hold the cosmetics and other grooming essentials used when taking advantage of their mirrors.

Installing Wall Cabinets

One of the beauties of wall cabinets is their ease of installation. You'll first need to use a stud finder to locate the stud nearest the place where you want to position your wall cabinet. Mark each point on the wall into which you will drill the mounting screws, and then insert the screws so that their heads protrude a bit.

You may have to get assistance from a friend or family member to help you lift your wall cabinet into place, especially if it is constructed of wood or metal. Align the screws with the insertion holes at the back of the wall cabinet, finish inserting the screws into the wall studs, and clean the wall cabinet of any flaked paint or plaster which may have fallen from the wall. You are now ready to fill your wall cabinet with whatever strikes your fancy. You've done it, and your home now has another attractive and functional cabinet of which you can be justifiably proud.

One caveat, though, is to remember not to slam your wall cabinet's doors, no matter how securely it seems to be attached. There's no pointing stressing it unnecessarily.

You can also find more info on and television cabinets. Knowcabinets.com is a comprehensive resource to know more about cabinets.

Things To Know About A Replacement Basement Window

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Accessorize Your Bathroom For an Inviting Experience

For most people the critical aspect of a bathroom is really just does it have a toilet? While we agree this is important, theres more to it when youre talking about that private sanctuary in your home. Women are typically more interested in the look and feel of a bathroom than are men. This is proven in my household where my husbands bathroom can be buried in dirty clothes and dust and he doesnt care as long as theres a good stack of magazines. My bathroom, of course, must be more inviting, less scary.

Accessories can add that perfect inviting touch to any room in your home, including the bathroom. I love walking into bathrooms that have a warm glow, gentle lighting, and they must smell great. This is often difficult to overcome by its very nature, but there are so many good smelling accessories on the market today. Candles, scented oils, room sprays, various soaps; the list really is endless.

More physical accessories are also important. Tower racks, towel warmers, pretty baskets to hold your big fluffy colorful towels, magazine racks with an interesting variety of reading material (critical for those long visits), and of course PLENTY of toilet paper within easy reach.

How about eye appeal? Your bathroom needs to look clean and fresh. Sweep the floor, have a shower curtain or door that is free from stains and mildew, clean the tile grout and cracks. Is your ceiling falling in? Patch it up. Is the floor warping from water damage? Repair it. Are the walls boring and blah? Dress it up with family photos, wall art, cute bathroom decorations (found at any Hobby Lobby or decorator store), even think about repainting or re-wallpapering to give it a fresh look.

For your own personal needs the absolute basics are really all you require, but think of your guests entering the bathroom. This is the scariest thought for me. What will they find? Hair? Dirtiness? Will they think Im a slob? Prepare an inviting space for them and youll naturally benefit.

Kristen Easton is a versatile writer on a variety of consumer topics including the bathroom vanity and hot tubs.

Get That Amazing Guest Bath

Creating a warm and inviting guest bath is one way to make visitors feel at home. Instead of bland white towels and neutral colors, why not create a warm environment that your guests can relax in? In this article, we've got some tips that will help you with your "project bathroom," to create an inviting room without blowing your budget.

The design of your project will depend on how much time and money you have to remodel a bathroom. If you don't have the time or money for a complete overhaul of the existing room, then a quick makeover may be your answer. Painting the walls, ceiling, doors and trim is absolutely the cheapest way to give any room a fresh look and feel.

You can also use fabrics, in the form window treatments and shower curtains, to add splashes of color to contrast your new paint. If you want to create the illusion of more space, choose soft colors that reflect light, as well as some nice bathroom wall mirrors. To add splashes of color, opt for bath mats and accessories in warm or bold shades.

Small bathrooms can be difficult to decorate, but homey touches can go a long way. If you have the space, try adding a few potted plants. They can hide the more drab aspects of the room and provide a point of interest.

The greenery will also help create a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere. If you want new bathroom furniture but can't fit it into your budget, then try remodeling cabinet components or the vanity yourself.

A quick trip to the hardware store is all you need. Some paint stripper, a little sanding and a fresh coat of paint is all it takes to give your furniture a brand new look.

No stylish guest bath is complete without a beautiful tile floor. If you take the time to shop around, you can find inexpensive materials and save even more money by installing the tiles yourself. A tile floor is money well spent because of its attractiveness and durability.

One you've selected a color or theme, choose a tile that is a neutral. To pull the look together, strategically place bolder colored tiles that match your theme around the room. To spice up the floor even more, set the tiles on an angle to form a diamond layout instead of the traditional checkerboard pattern. It will give your room an updated look that will last for years.

New bathrooms don't have to sink your bank account if you do some careful planning. Your guest bath can be beautiful and functional without a major overhaul. Instead of replacing fixtures, consider just resurfacing them. Instead of buying new cabinetry, give the old ones a gleaming new look by refinishing them with colored stain.

Or, install track lighting along the vanity to add a warm glow that will make the room seem more spacious. It really doesn't take a lot of effort to make an appealing bathroom for your guests.

Visit Mike Selvon showers portal for more information on improving your guest bath, and leave a comment at our interior design blog. Don't forget to claim your FREE gift.

What Is a Home Improvement Grant

Home Improvement loans differ from remodeling grants in that the entire amount of a loan has to be repaid to the lender whereas a grant can be seen as a type of gift. However, it is unusual to get the full amount of the repair or improvement works on your house so the costs will have to be partially met by yourself.

Do I qualify for a Remodeling Grant?

1. Home owners aged 62 and older

2. Families with Low Income

3. Applicants who have bad credit

A professional inspector is sent out to the house in any of these scenarios to determine if repairs or renovation is needed.

Before any money is offered you will need to pass an inspection carried out by a professional whose job it is to determine exactly what renovation or repairs are actually required.

Depending upon the type of grant you apply for you will be paid in one lump sum or in payments. A good place to start looking is your local and state government offices or websites. It's also worth contacting your local Department of Human Services. Each organization sets their own rules about who will receive a home improvement grant.

Because governmental organisations and institutions give out grants that are attached to the area in which they work, you will need to do find grants that that are appropriate to the nature of your repair. If, for example, the desired repair is to your waste management system, you can obtain a grant from the environment office.

If you're turned down for a remodeling grant then you will have to turn to more traditional methods and try for a subsidised loan. There are lots available with interest rates between 1% and 5% and are usually set up so that repayments cover a longer period. Do your research first though and never borrow beyond your means.

Go to Remodeling Ideas Etc for all home related information from federal home improvement grants to bed and matress reviews to cheap solar panels to alarm systems and security and much more.

The Best Tips For Building a Baby Crib

A baby spends more than 1600 hours sleeping in the first year of life alone. Most of this time is spent in the baby crib. Building a crib may seem like a daunting task but the rewards are huge. The result is an heirloom quality baby crib that will be cherished and passed down through generations.

Start with a good baby crib building plan. There are many free baby crib plans in addition to those you can purchase. When looking for a good crib plan be sure that it includes diagrams of the finished piece as well as specific important steps. Exploded views of the steps help the woodworker to better visualize and understand each step.

Choose a crib plan tha5B4t suits your own woodworking skills. If you are new to woodworking choose a baby crib building plan that is less complicated. Some plans create a standard baby crib while others are for more complicated convertible cribs. Some plans offer extensive cutout designs while others use standard slats or solid wood for the headboard and footboard areas.

Always consider current safety standards when choosing baby crib plans. These standards are updated often so be sure to verify them against your plan of choice before you begin. Remember that you can easily make any modification necessary at the start.

Once you decide on the baby crib plan you next must decide on the material to use. Always try to use the highest-grade wood you can afford. If the piece will be stained you should make sure that the wood is the best quality while if you will paint the piece you can use slightly less quality wood.

Follow the directions closely. If you have any questions or problems along the way there are resources to help you. Many woodworking web sites have user forums where people post questions that are answered by any and all who care to. This can give you lots of insight to a specific situation you have encountered. Also, check your baby crib plans. Often they have a toll-free number to call with questions or for specific help.

Set up a woodworking schedule to follow. Allo5B2w ample time to build the crib. Take into account the time you will have to work on the crib and consider where you will be building it. Be sure that you set up a workshop area in your garage or basement where you can leave everything set up without having to put things away after each work session. This will save you countless hours on the project. Keep a clean sheet handy to cover your work in-between sessions. Prepare a place to work when it comes time to stain or paint the crib and allow enough time for the crib to cure once completed. Plan to have the crib completed at least a month before the crib will be needed.

Finally, be sure to sign and date your piece. This will make the process complete and will ensure that many years from now people will know who made the crib and when it was made.

Article written by Randi Reese, she offers a wide selection of unique baby cribs, including the popular Davinci crib.

How You Can Remodel Your Porch Yourself

There are many benefits your home can gain when you remodel your porch. This great example provided by DoItYourself provides great tips to enhance your outdoors with fresh ideas that employ the usage of carpentry skills, paint and stain to bring in life into a regular backyard. Plenty of mosquitoes along with the need to enjoy summer,spring and fall by lazing around outside, made the homeowners of a residence in Atlanta in Georgia to alter their backside porch from a plain looking slab of concrete to a showcase that was screened in, including insulated drapes. While taking the decision took no time, the actual solution was tedious.

The owners realized that screening the back patio was absolutely needed. It was just a squarish piece of concrete which was placed under an overhanging roof. This made the situation far more complicated. They needed to blend the porch along with the house while also providing a shield from local insects, summer heat and humidity levels. The slab of concrete even had a slope to provide for rain water to go away and so this needed to be trimmed from the frame's inside to fit into the slope.

Here's a stepwise guide of what these people did:

1. Cutting the paneling: Sheets of paneling of the beadboard ceiling variety were cut into 4x8 feet dimensions. These were primed beforehand.

2. Installation of ceiling fans and panels: With the help of a nail gun the owners were able to quickly install the ceiling panels. It was so much easier that hammer swinging and holding on to the panel! Before the panel was installed fan and light wiring was performed on the ceiling. The fan made it possible to make the porch around 8-10 degrees colder as compared to outdoor temperatures. The light made it possible for the usage of the porch during night time. So while one person would hold the fan another person would connect the wiring and then screw the fan 947in place. The finish trim on the ceiling served to camouflage the panel seams.

3. Framing of the porch: Based on the standard sized screens that were installed, the porch frame which measured 2x4 feet was fitted to size. Crosspieces could be directly nailed on to the vertically placed braces or just toenailed into the area.

4. Interior panel attachment: With the help of a staple gun the beadboard paneling comprising pine along with plywood, was secured into the interior. Although level on the topside, the panels needed trimming on the bottom portion in order to fit into the unevenly surfaced concrete flooring. This used to have a slope to provide rain runoff.

5. Levelling and attaching the exterior panel: All the hardboard panels of the exterior were put into place one by one, right from the bottom to the top. The first panel was customized and cut as per the uneven base line of the ground. The usage of a weather resistant type of paint made it possible to maintain exteriors by just using water and soap for color maintenance.

6. Finishing with the screen: All the vinyl grids were directly screwed upon the wood frame. The screens were placed on the channels present on these grids, thus facilitating a stapleless installation of aluminum and fibreglass screens. Upon rolling these screens with a spline on the grid channels, the extra screen was just trimmed off.

Greg Hansward's papers are published on several online publications linked to insulated draperies and insulated curtain fabric. From his detailed writings, he proofed his knowledge on issues dealing with insulated drapes and insulated draperies.

Closet Organizer Systems Helping To Create Clutter Free Closets For You

In order for people to make the most of what little time they have each day, keeping themselves organized has got to be the number one priority. To be able to find things when needed and not waste precious time scrabbling around the house trying to find them, you must realise that organizing what is hidden from the eyes of visitors to your home is just as important as keeping tidy those areas of the house that are on view to the general public. It's inevitable that, over the years, people are going to accumulate a lot of things, and, undoubtedly, these are items that are going to be needed to be stored. But stored where? In our closets, of course, and this will explain why there is such a vast range of closet organizer systems available on the market today.

Unfortunately, because there are so many options to choose from when it comes to deciding which of the closet organizer systems will best suit our needs, it's difficult to know exactly where to begin. Well, if you think about it, logically, the best place to start is with the closet itself. Closet organization needn't be the arduous chore that many people think it will be. It could be as simple as throwing out things that really are no longer needed to free up space.

There will be times though, when simply throwing stuff out just won't be an option. If it has come to the stage where closet space really is at a premium, then the time has come for a complete closet redesign. In order to be able to maximize the use of what space is available and store your stuff in a more organized manner, you are now going to have to make a choice of which of the closet organizer systems available would really suit your needs.

One thing for you to bear in mind. Many of the closet organizer systems on the market not only serve a functional purpose, but, if you choose systems from the higher price end of the market, are also quite highly decorative. So, that cluttered space you had hidden from the eyes of your friends and neighbors, can now be systematically organized and help to m597ake that closet something that you can now truly be proud to show off.

To keep things simple, a lot of people opt for the Closet Maid systems. There are, however, a whole lot more to choose from and each of the different systems available offer there own unique style or variety of colors and designs. Some of these closet organizers even allow you to mix and match, enabling you the make the most of the space you have available. When it comes to having the closet of your dreams with everything neatly tucked away, the only thing between you and one of those closet organizer systems, is the amount in your budget and your own imagination.

Closet organizer systems don't have to be expensive or complicated to achieve that clutter free closet you've always desired. If it's a wide range of information about closets you need then visit http://www.closetorganizersystems.net TODAY.

Reglaze a Bath Tub

Bathtub not looking as good as it should? Are you stuck with one of those outdated colors of the 1970's? With a few simple preparations and a lot of patience, you can learn how to reglaze a bathtub and save yourself the hassle of buying and installing a new tub.

Of course, you'll want to make sure that you work safely. Since refinishing a bathtub involves chemicals, some of which are toxic, make sure that you ventilate the area well before beginning. Also, protect yourself with a ventilator, safety goggles and gloves. Once protected, gather your supplies and get going! Give your tub a cursory cleaning and remove any loose caulking and gaskets.

Most bathtub refinishing kits come with several chemicals. The first two are chemical cleaning solutions that will remove soaps and oils from the surface of the tub and prepare it for the primer. Most kits require you to clean the tub with the first solution, scrubbing the tub with sandpaper, usually 220 or 240 grit. Once the tub is thoroughly scrubbed, rinse away any residue.

The second cleaning solution is applied next, usually with a specially designed cleaning pad that also scores, or roughs, the surface of the tub. This second step removes any remaining oil or soap and also provides "grab" for the primer. Rinse the tub again and dry with an old towel or paper towels.

The third solution in the kit is a primer reducer, a solvent that removes any remaining residue and prepares the surface for the primer. Carefully apply the reducer with paper towels. After this, repair any damage to the tub's surface and drain area with putty and allow to dry. After about 30 minutes, sand the repaired areas smooth with a fine grit sandpaper, clean with the primer reducer and dry.

It is time to mask the area around the bathtub that will not be refinished. Carefully apply tape and paper to the areas around the tub, burnishing any tape with your fingernail or a credit card to assure a good seal.

Next, you'll apply the base coat to the tub. Remember to wear your respirator for this part of the process, and make sure that your area is properly ventilated. Following the manufacturer's directions, mix the primer's components exactly and use a spray gun to apply to the bathtub. Allow the primer to dry for at least 30 minutes before applying the top coat.

Mix the paint for the topcoat following manufacturer's instructions. Apply the topcoat using the spray gun with even strokes. This topcoat will take about 48-72 hours to completely cure. Reglazing your bathtub can be a cost effective way to dramatically update your bathroom!

Claire Bowes is a successful Webmaster and publisher of bathtub remodeling. Claire provides more information on her site about bathtub refinishing and designs.

Interior Designer Tips for Selecting a New Paint Color

1. Find a starting place. Pull your color inspiration from something already in the room such as an area rug or painting. If you are planning to replace the furnishings in a room as well as fresh paint, start by finding the new items for the room. Finding a paint color to match a rug you love is infinitely easier than trying to find a rug you like to work with the color of your walls.

2. Think about what you like, and what colors you like to wear. If you don't look good in yellow, do not paint your Master Bathroom yellow or you will be unhappy with yourself every time you look in the mirror. You might be seeing a lot of blues and browns in home furnishings lately, but if you don't love blue do not paint your room blue just to keep up with the trends.

3. Get inspired! Mother Nature is the world's best colorist and she pulls together the most incredible palettes. Look around outside for color combinations you might have never considered.

4. Start small and take baby steps. If you want to try a bold color for the first time, start in a small and manageable space such as a Powder Room. The small space will allow you to live with you new bold color in a small amount, plus you 16D0will need very few accessories to pull the look together.

5. Ignore all "rules" you may have heard such as dark colors making a room look small. Do not be guided by what you have been told is right or wrong when selecting colors. Yes, some of these rules do have some amount of truth but the world is not black and white, and nor should your home be.

Michelle Davidson
Interior Design Service Online
http://www.interiordesignserviceonline.com
The affordable way to get the look your want without the high cost.

Composite Decking: Low-Maintenance, High-Enjoyment Decks!

With a great many decking materials, one common factor when thinking about investing in a deck is the amount of maintenance required. With composite decking, made from recycled materials, the beauty of this low-maintenance deck is rivaled only by its even, smooth surface. Composite decking has been designed to withstand all of the stresses that are placed upon decks by natural elements such as rain and UV rays as most commercial decking materials are. But Composite decking is also easy to install, requires no staining or sealing, and is easy to keep clean as well. A composite deck means less time working, and more time enjoying the deck. For the sheer enjoyment of the outdoors, it is worth considering a composite deck for this reason alone.

Composite decks: easy to install.

Composite decking is made with easy installation in mind; a composite deck is manufactured for those who value convenience along with quality. Composite decking material is lightweight - easily lifted and easily sawn like real wood. This type of decking usually comes with a hidde16C7n clip system which further ensures a straightforward deck installation while maintaining a tailored, smooth deck surface.

Composite decking: easy to maintain

Another feature of composite decking is the fact that they dont need to be stained or sealed. For many wood decks, annual staining is a minimum in order to keep it free of pests and wood-rot. Composite decking is made with these stresses in mind. There is no need to spend additional hours staining or sealing a composite deck, and so more time can be set aside for meeting with friends and family, and enjoying the outdoors together.

The easily cleaned composite deck

It takes very little effort to clean a composite deck thats the way it was made. Just a hosing off and a sweep when required is about the extent of things when looking to keep a composite deck clean. For a residential deck, composite decking is a great solution for families with children. Its in these households that the idea of saving time is most important! Since there are no involved methods or equipment required in cleaning composite decking, you are free to turn it into a part of family time, where even the kids can be involved in the maintenance of your outdoor property.

Composite decking was designed for convenience, as well as being a quality alternative to a great many varieties of decking materials. The ease of owning such a low-maintenance deck will result in more time enjoying your property.

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.

Benefits of a Sunroom

The sunroom is a beautiful addition to your house. Building a sunroom in your house can give you a natural atmosphere within your territory. While having considering which plan to actually install, there are certain things that need to be considered beforehand.

The largest benefit of having a sunroom plan installed is that it provides you with the warmth of sun all around the year. Not only that but it ensures the production of vitamin D in your body, which is only produced in the presence of sunlight. Vitamin D being an essential part in the growth of your bones also prevents one from different diseases. However, there are certain things that ought to be considered and carefully evaluated before having a plan installed at your homes.

As it has been already discussed that either you can get one of those do-it-yourself kit and install the sunroom plan or else hire a contractor to do it for you. Most of the contractors have an assortment of plans already developed and ready fo5B4r installing. Having discussed it with one such person gives you a fair idea of how things will work along with the total cost estimation. The only possible hurdle can arise if you have your mind set upon having something unique for you. This the pre-developed selections of the contractors do not offer and you will have to consider an architect then to work on your plans.

With the advent of technology now there are a number of websites that provide you a platform to generate your dream sunroom by using different online available options and acquiring those at the very instant too. However, this one can have a major disadvantage. In case of online building you are asked to make measurements yourself and if by an chance your measurement waver even by an inch that can ruin the whole constriction process altogether and the planning of your sunroom plan can take ages before it is completed.

The sunroom provides you with the natural joy which you can't experience in an ordinary living room. That is why when making a plan it is important to choose the best plan so that the sunroom not only adds beauty to your house but also give you the level of comfort you deserve.

There are quite a lot of things that you need to consider while drawing plans for your sunroom, from the selection of materials to the process of construction. And each of this detail must be monitored closely as it is your home that matters after all. It is vita40Dl to think about every step of the process while working on your plans and having it installed.

Adam Peters loves writing for http://www.home-decorating-reviews.com - A focused website that offers the best articles on outdoor staircase and patio rooms.

Bathroom Remodeling Can Be Both Big and Small

There are many home improvement projects, but few can provide the benefits of a bathroom remodeling project. There are a few things to consider when remodeling your bathroom. This article will take a closer look at this topic.

Start your bathroom remodeling with your bathroom accessory and shower curtain list. Although it may not be as important and crucial as some of the other decisions you have to make at the start of your bathroom remodeling project but a little thought and action at the start can save you a lot of time, energy and money later on.

If you don't make your bathroom accessory list at the start of your project how will you know whether the fixtures that you order will match with your style in accessories? You might fi16CFnd that the stainless steel bathroom accessory look that you grow to love later in the project simply doesn't go with the style and color of the bathtub, toilet and other fixtures that you chose weeks ago.

If you are planning a complete remodeling of the bathroom, then look for some of the best designs available in remodeling magazines or websites with galleries exhibiting various designs. While bathroom remodeling can be an exciting project it can also seem daunting because of the various aspects that need to be considered for the look and design you require.

Next to consider in your bathroom remodeling design are the materials you want to use. One of the most difficult decisions that face you when you are remodeling your bathroom is the design of the ceramic tiles. In bathroom shower remodeling, great care is required in the selection of tiles used for flooring and on walls in the shower area.

When you've got an accurate drawing of your bathroom as it is now it's time to start dreaming about the bathroom that you would like to have. I think that the fun part of using squared paper to design a bathroom is drawing the new fixtures to scale on graph paper and cutting them out so that they can be pushed into position on top of another sheet of graph paper with a drawing of the room on it. At the end of the day project managing your bathroom remodeling job is a full time job and if you want to avoid the stress that it brings then you should hire someone to project manage for you.

If you spend time on the design of your small bathroom remodeling project before you start any work you will be surprised at how much space you can save by experimenting with small sized toilets, small deep bathtubs, tiny wash basins and carefully shaped small shower cubicles. Bathroom remodeling design could be an exciting project but it can also seem daunting because of the various aspects to consider. A small bathroom will always be small but there are many ways to create the illusion of a much larger room and using bathroom wall mirrors is one of the ways.

Find more helpful remodeling tips by visiting http://best-home-improvement-projects.com where you will find helpful remodeling tips, advice and resources to include Bathroom Remodeling.

Building a Solar Oven

A simple solar oven can be built for less than $20.00 since it can be made out of cardboard and other items you can find laying around. To build your own solar oven, you will need several cardboard boxes of various sizes, a good bottle of glue (a paste stick will not work), a roll of heavy-duty 18 inch wide aluminum foil and a piece of glass (can also be Plexiglas).

You will also need a can of flat black paint, 3/8 inch wide elastic band (get from a sewing or crafts store), a small black tin, a bit of cotton cloth as well as some string.

You must first find 2 perfectly square boxes, one for the inside and the other, which will be 2 to 3 inches larger in all directions, for the outside box. You will then need 4 pieces of 3 foot long cardboard that is as wide as your outside box. using these longer pieces of cardboard you will need to cut a foot of each to help you position the inner box so that is perfectly centered in the outer box but sits only an inch lower.

Now you will use the remainder of the long pieces of cardboard to tuck in between the inner and outer box so as to create an insulated layer. when finish insulating your oven, you will then need to cut the glass (or Plexiglas) so that it matches the inside dimensions of the outer box and can fit snugly on the top of the inner box.

Once this is completed, you may now paint the inside of your solar oven a flat black color.

Now it is time for your reflectors, which is why I asked you to use a perfectly square box since it is easier. You will need to glue your aluminum foil to the inside of the outer boxes flaps in order to reflect the sun's light into the box, as well as cutting some of your left over pieces of cardboard so that your solar oven's reflectors sit at a 67 degree angle.

Using the cotton string, you will put holes in each corner of the flap so that you can run the string under the oven to the opposite flap which will not only put pressure on you 67 degree guides, but also keep them at the right angle in higher winds.

Once you have finished this, you are almost done with building your solar oven.

You will need to take that black colored tin and place it in the box on one of the boxes sides (this is why the insulation is important, as you will be cooking with the box on its side), place the food you wish to cook in the tin and point your solar oven directly at the sun.

Because of the high temperatures, you will probably notice some smoke being released from your oven, but that is just normal as the paint and glue may still be curing. If you used Plexiglas, it may also start to melt in which case it was probably a generic copy of Plexiglas and you will need to replace it with glass or another form of Lexan supplement.

Wait for the glass to cool and remove your food and enjoy.

2007 All Rights Reserved.

Tom Harkins writes about solar homes and other alternative energy subjects that will have a huge affect on our daily lives in the near future.

Japanese Bathtubs - A Tradition For The Future

A Japanese bathtub, sometimes called an Ofuro, is usually around twice the size of a standard American style bathtub. It is deeper and often rounder, to allow the bather to sit comfortably with their knees bent. The water, which is kept at a high temperature, is up to the bather's chest. This position is said to aid relaxation and meditation, which makes for a very therapeutic bathing experience.

The Japanese bathtub is rapidly gaining popularity throughout the world. As people become more interested in personal wellbeing and healthy living through homeopathy and natural remedies, the Japanese style of bathing compliments these ideas perfectly. The hot water is said to stimulate blood circulation and have positive effects on the overall health of body and mind.

Another benefit of these unique bath tubs is that they are generally much more compact - deeper, but more upright - and therefore suitable for smaller spaces than the standard size tubs. They can also easily be adapted to become walk-in style tubs for the elderly or infirm.

The original style of Japanese bathtub was always made of wood. The natural wood was said to add to the therapeutic powers of the bath and was particularly favored in hot spring facilities and spas. Nowadays ceramics, porcelain, fiberglass and even stainless steel models are available to suit a range of pockets.

Bathtubs from Japan are traditionally for soaking rather then washing. In fact, actually washing in your tub would be seriously scorned by most Japanese people. Washing, scrubbing and hair washing will take place before entering the bath and soaking for up to one hour in hot water. The body should be clean and pure before bathing as any residual soap or grime will contaminate the waters.

In a Japanese public bathhouse - which are still very popular and well worth a visit if you ever have the opportunity - ritual and tradition can be rather tricky. Do a bit of research before you go and follow the lead of the locals. The overall experience is sure to be blissfully relaxing.

The basic things to remember are that no soap is to be used in the tubs. No outside or 'toilet shoes' (these are for use strictly in the toilet areas, and changed as soon as you depart the area) are to be worn in the bathhouse. Bare feet are not really acceptable as your feet should be clean to bathe. Nudity is expected, and since male and female segregation is the norm this is not an issue for most. Lastly, the water is very hot - enter the waters slowly and be careful.

Japanese bathtubs are noth the only accessory that can go into your bathroom. Visit us today to learn more about how to install a bath tub and why a corner bathroom vanity is something you should check out.

Metal Buildings and Their Advantages

Why metal buildings?

Metal buildings are fast gaining popularity and preference over conventional building materials such as wood and lumber. The reasons are the several advantages you enjoy with a metal building as compared to other materials where such benefits are absent.

Also, an insatiable demand for non-renewable resources like wood has resulted in clearing of forest cover which has adversely affected the global environment. High costs, low availability and limited options have led to the shift from other building materials to metal buildings.

What are the advantages of metal buildings?

Metal buildings have numerous advantages over other building materials which makes them the preferred choice for building strong, stylish and durable high-quality buildings.

Cost-advantage: Metal buildings are relatively cheaper when compared with buildings of other materials. What distinguishes them is that they have low maintenance costs as well. Building a metal building is a one-time affair and the expenditure is a long term investment.

Durability: Another important feature of metal buildings is that they are very sturdy. Metal buildings are heat-resistant and are strong enough to withstand climatic changes. Other materials such as wood do not withstand climatic changes that well.

No labor costs: Professional metal building companies deliver pre-fabricated dismantled metal framework with marked components. These require just bolting and erecting which can be done easily with the help of the detailed assembly handbook making doing-it-yourself possible for smaller structures.

No waste: If a 40 X 60 wood building is to be constructed, tons of waste is to be expected. In case of metal buildings, this is not the case. Prefabricated building engineered at the factory in accordance with pre-decided dimensions and completely recyclable material guarantee that there is no residual waste.

Desired design: If you require very high ceilings or want to have a complex design according to the placement of your heavy machinery, metal buildings are best suited for you. You can choose from a wide variety of options and give your requirements beforehand to have your own customized metal building.

Insulation cover: Another addition with metal buildings is the insulation cover you can opt for. Insulation advantages not only reduce the noise level of falling rain in the interiors but also lower overall energy consumption costs.

Insect-resistant: Metal buildings are not affected by insects of any kind and hence are more durable.

An ever-rising demand, use in churches, bridges and mammoth corporate house buildings testify the revolution the use of metal building materials in buildings has brought about.

Mike Zhmudikov is a professional copywriter and seo consultant.

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Foam Building Materials

Although there are many metal foams made up of solid metals like aluminum, their high price prevents them from being used in normal household constructions Commonly used foams are plastics, which are primarily made up of polyurethane and polystyrene. Most of these materials are low density elastomers, polymers and other ma1C84terials with various porosities. Foam building materials are characterized by their high density, tensile strength and thermal conductivity and dielectric strength. They are used in roofing membranes, insulation, pipe covers, vapor barriers, crack suppressant membranes and as installed flooring protection.

Polyurethane is polymer with bubbles produced at the time of foaming from one polyols and one isocyanate -- usually TDI (Toluene diisocyanate). There are rigid and flexible polyurethane foams available.

The most simple and common process to manufacture foams is by adding water to the liquid precursors of polyurethane. Water will react with the isocyanate of TDI. This will result in the production of carbon dioxide, which can create relatively uniform bubbles that harden through the polymerization process producing solid foam.

One other important polymer used to make household foams is polystyrene. Most polystyrene foams are made by adding little amounts of volatile materials known as blowing agents. The commonly used blowing agents in the past were CFCs (Chlorofluorocarbons). Other agents like acetone and methylene chloride have replaced this.

When polyurethane foams are required in soft form, they are mixed with resin. These soft foams are generally heavier than rigid foams. Forcing a pressurized gas, usually nitrogen or carbon dioxide, into the polymerizing mixture, produces large amounts of polyurethane and polystyrene foams. Some surfactants are also used for reducing the surface tension of foams, which are mainly silicone-based.

The machinery used to produce polyurethane foam depends on the application of foam. The most commonly used machinery is a spray foam gun, which are available in different sizes.

Building Materials provides detailed information on Building Materials, Building Material Manufacturers, Recycled Building Materials, Deck Building Materials and more. Building Materials is affiliated with Home Buildings.

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Cabinet Hardware Makes an Easy Bathroom Makeover

A quick and easy bathroom makeover would be the right thing for many of us who are bored with the old decor of our bathrooms and are ready to update. No need to fear any major restorations in the near future. There is a simpler way to make improvements without the messy work.

With a simple change of the existing bathroom accessories and cabinet hardware, you will have a totally new look to your bathroom within an hour or two.

No major changes or tools are needed except a screwdriver or drill (if you prefer) and the time it takes to decide what accessories you want and where they fit in.

Remember, the idea is to make a change, and this means that it is time to donate that toilet tissue cover to the charity of your choice and get modern.

You might find that you are amazed by all the choices available for bathroom accessories.

If your bathroom looks drab and dull and has been the same since you moved in, try brightening the room with bold colors and textures of paint.

If you had an obsession with the frog family, it might be time to change into a flower child and touch your inner peace.

For those who want a more sophisticated look, consider a lean toward a spa effect with calming16BD earthy colors.

For the romantic bathroom, reds and purples will bring about the right mood and adding a candle or two will give the right air for love. Make sure you have fun with the change and go a little wild.

To bring about the sleeker modern look, it will be necessary to give up those outdated cabinet and door fixtures. Adding themed cabinet hardware can really bring out the decor and color of the space.

If you have decided to add new paint to the cabinets or walls, adding new door or cabinet hardware can be the finishing touch you have been looking for.

Today, you can find every color, shape, and material used for the fixtures. Some of the better selling finishes are in chrome, nickel, gold, brass, pewter, and ceramic hardware.

Remember, simple is sometimes the best thing to add a touch of class. Door hardware falls under the same category as the cabinet hardware. Remember, the door fixtures will be the first thing you see when you enter so you might want to splurge here!

Things have certainly changed in the way of room decor. This means more possibilities for you to consider in your makeover. Allow your creative side to come forth and create a room that you will be proud to spend time in. Make it one you will want all your guests to see!

Whether you choose to go frilly or funky, you will be able to find bathroom accessories, door hardware, and cabinet hardware to fit. Once you are finished with your creation, run a hot bath, add some bubble bath, jump in and enjoy your new bathroom.

If bathroom remodeling is a challenge, try something easier. Change your door and cabinet hardware for a simple change. Let CKI Wholesale furnish your new cabinet hardware. Visit CKI Wholesale at http://www.ckilock.com/ to manage your makeover dreams.

Preinspection

Ceiling Fan Light Kits - Most Lighting Kits Come Ready And Easy To Install!

There are many fans that do not come with lights attached and you may be missing out on good lighting for that room. Adding a light fixture to your ceiling fan is easy to do with a ceiling fan light kit. Lighting kits are the best way to add a little light to a dim room.

Where to find a ceiling fan light kit?
You can look on ceiling Fan Company or light company web sites and browse for good bargains on lighting kits. You can also comparison shop to find some good deals. There are many ways and places to find a good lighting kit. Finding good deals on a lighting kit for your fan can make any room look great and leave more money for other home improvements.

Easy to install!
Lighting kits are not very hard to install. Even if you do not consider yourself to be that handy, most lighting kits come ready and easy to install. All ceiling fan light kits will come with easy to read and follow instructions with electrical instructions to help you install your light without any trouble.

Different Styles
Lighting kits can come in many styles as well and you can find the right one for any room with any decor. If you have Victorian style decor and fan, you can find a Victorian style lighting kit. With many lighting kits you may have to wire the lighting yourself. If you have to wire the light your self you will have to make sure the electricity is off to the room so you do not electrocute yourself.

Decorative purposes?
One thing you need to remember is that most fan lights are designed for limited wattage. Basically, you need to make sure that the lighting kit you bought will be sufficient enough for its purpose. There are some kits that are purely for decorative purposes. These lights will not be very appropriate if you are looking to light up a big room.

Spot light fixtures
Stemmed or spot lighting fixtures seem to be the best when getting a kit for lighting up a room, this is because you can turn and point the lights where you want it giving good light in the spot you need it. Another popular light fixture is the bowl light fixture. This fixture has a bowl shaped cover over the bulb, the bowl it's ordinarily either frosted or clear.

Energy Efficient Light kit
If you would like to have an energy efficient light on your fan, you can replace a regular bulb with an energy efficient bulb. These bulbs usually have low wattage but produce light that seems as if it was a high watt bulb. You can also find kits with the energy star logo on it. The energy star logo means that the kit is compliant with the energy star standards.

All in all, if your fan does not have a light attached to it, do not panic. You can go get a lighting kit and install it easily on your own. You can also brag to all your friends that you did it on your own when they tell you how good it looks. When you use energy efficient lighting kits and bulbs you are sure to save money on your electric bill.

To Find More Ceiling Fan Light Kits ratings and reviews for your home visit www.ceiling-fan-wizard.com

Copyright 2008 Ceiling-fan-wizard.com, all rights reserved.

Mark is the editor Ceiling-fan-wizard.com which Provides you wit3DAh the best ceiling fan reviews and ratings. To Find More Ceiling Fan Light Kits ratings and reviews for your home visit http://www.ceiling-fan-wizard.com

Drywalling Around Skylight

Cleaning Your Home's Exterior

Whatever your homes exterior is finished with, paint, vinyl, brick, stucco or anything else, chances are that it will need a little lift sometime in it's life. Short of completely re-doing it, there are a few options for cleaning and brightening up your home's exterior.

Pressure washing is an option for many homes. As well as your home, it can clean your driveway and walkways as well. However, it does take skill. The high water pressure can make pressure washing equipment hard to handle and also destructive if the handler isn't careful. Spending too much time in a delicate area can result in erosion or even more serious damage to your home. But take heart, a bit of research and practice can help you become a skilled pressure washer. On the other hand, for the time it takes to perfect your skill, it might be worth paying a professional to wash your home.

Pressure washing w5B4orks for almost any finish as long as the surface is not damaged. Chipped paint may flake off and loose bricks may get worse. However, going over your home for a thorough cleaning is a great way to assess any damage that needs repairing. Often, water is enough to clean a home. If you have stubborn areas, most pressure washers come with a detergent attachment. Some people find a need for bleach to clean their home. For a more environmentally sound approach, use vinegar instead of bleach. It doesn't have the same whitening power, but it does deter mold and algae growth. Chances are you don't have a real stain that needs bleaching, but some organic growth that just needs to be removed, (for which the pressure washer should suffice) and further growth prevented (that's where the vinegar's handy).

If you have wood or vinyl panels, be careful when pressure washing not to spray water at an angle that gets moisture under and between your siding. Trapped moisture that doesn't have an easy way to evaporate can really cause problems inside your walls.

If your home's paint is fading or peeling, or is a bit cheaper, pressure washing can damage it. In this case, a fresh paint-job just might be a necessity.

Keep in mind some of the other details that make your home look fresh. I already mentioned driveways and walkways, but don't forget washing the windows. Also, keep gutters clean, as leaking gutters can contribute to stained exteri48Dors. Landscaping is the final frontier of your home's exterior. Planting some bulbs and doing pruning will assure your home is bright and beautiful come spring-time.

ThinkLouise.com, the website for experienced Atlanta Georgia real estate agent, Louise Scoggins. Visit her for information on the North Fulton County real estate area, or any other Atlanta area real estate needs.

Do It Yourself Home Help

Selling Has Evolved

Selling has been around as long as the human race. Selling has evolved and changed rapidly over the years and has reached a unique point, forcing sales professionals to adapt and change their approach to selling in order to stay ahead of the competition and meet the expectations of their customers.

Have you seen the movie Tin Men? Tin Men is a classic movie starring Danny Devito and Richard Dreyfuss that was released in 1987. The movie is focused around two aluminum siding salesmen. One of their sales tactics was staging a camera in front of a home without aluminum siding and taking p5B4ictures of the house. When the homeowner came outside to see what they were doing, they would explain they were working on a story about aluminum siding and needed some pictures of houses that didnt have siding so they could compare the look to those homes with aluminum siding. The homeowner would express their concern with being seen as the house without the siding and the salesmen would proceed to explain how they could get aluminum siding and potentially be featured in the magazine as a house with aluminum siding.

Of course this is extreme and comical, but this example illustrates how selling has evolved. Can you imagine looking out your window and seeing two strangers taking pictures of your house? When was the last time you saw a door-to-door salesperson? Today, people would simply call the police, never mind walking out to see what you were doing. Door to door sales is a thing of the past and has been long gone and ineffective for sometime now. It is still done in some forms, but has definitely been reduced to a select few. Again, its extreme but you get the idea.

How about companies who have call centers and make sales calls to consumers? There is a major change to the way you do business if I ever saw one. In 2003, a database was created for consumers to register their phone numbers on the Do Not Call List, preventing companies from making phone solicitations to their home. If a company calls a number listed in5B4 the Do Not Call database, they face steep fines and other repercussions. This is a major change to the way many companies sell and one of many reasons why companies and sales professionals need to find new ways to reach clients.

Email has become a new sales tool over the recent years and is being used in numerous aspects of the sales process. Similar to other laws preventing unwanted solicitations, there are strict guidelines for businesses that use email as a sales tool. Emails cannot be spam and must not be an unwanted solicitation to an unknown email address. We can all relate to the ridiculous amounts of spam we receive and understand how frustrating it is as a consumer. Aside from spam, email is an extremely effective sales tool and when incorporated into your sales activities can be a productive and efficient way to reach your customers.

Today, buyers are more educated than ever. The Internet has provided the opportunity for buyers of all types to gather information, research topics and learn about companies, products and services before they are even close to making a decision. This is extremely important for sales people to recognize as they establish contacts with potential customers.

Along with the different vehicles of communication changing in sales, sales skills have evolved and changed at a rapid pace. The days of high pressure sales, ineffective jargon and canned scripts is over. In todays selling en56Bvironment, sales people must continue to monitor and change their selling approach as the perceptions and experiences of their customers change. It is critical to recognize your approach to selling and understand how you may be perceived. If your approach is that of a high pressure, product focused, fast-talking sales person, your chances of success are slim. Happy selling!

Christopher Thompson is the Founder and President of Catch 22 Solutions, a sales performance consulting company and a former Director of Sales at PC Connection, Inc. For more information visit http://www.catch22solutions.com

Residential Real Estate Appraiser Secrets - Ten Steps To Become An Appraiser in California

Becoming a real estate appraiser is not as easy as it may seem. In the State of California, the governing body which licenses appraisers is called the Office of Real Estate Appraisers or OREA for short. The OREA oversees licensing of four levels of appraisers: Trainee, Residential, Certified Residential and Certified General. Here are the ten steps to become a fully licensed appraiser (Residential Level), one step above a Trainee level.

1. Take 150 hours of coursework including the 15-hour National USPAP Course.
2. Apply for the Trainee license. Wait 2 months.
3. After letter to take exam is received, register and take the State examination.
4. Pass the State exami1C84nation.
5. Find a fully licensed appraiser to train you and sign your work.
6. Earn 2000 "experience hours".
7. Send another application with all the documentation to the OREA. Wait 2 months.
8. Receive your license.
9. Buy Errors and Omissions insurance.
10. Start networking.

Many more articles can be written on each step. It generally takes 2-3 years from start to finish. Many people think that all appraisers do is go out to a home, measure it and think up a value. It takes many years to hone the skills necessary in developing an opinion of value. Since no two properties are alike, and all properties are unique, an appraiser's ability to take all the experience they have and apply it to a new situation becomes key in the success of their business.

To become a Certified Residential Appraiser, the applicant needs 200 hours of education, 2,500 hours of experience (encompassing no less than 2 1/2 years) and an Associates Degree (or equivalent). To become a Certified General Appraiser, you need 300 education hours, 3,000 experience hours (in no less than 2 1/2 years) and a Bachelors Degree (or equivalent).

Dawn R Walker, Certified Residential Appraiser Visit me at http://www.appraisersantaclarita.com

Committed to delivering elegant, complete appraisal reports on time for residential properties in the Los Angeles and surrounding Counties. Working as a professional and with professionals in many industries. Constructing appraisal reports that exceed expectations and providing customer service you will recommend to your associates and family.

Kitchen Remodeling Doesn't Have to Break the Bank

If you've been considering kitchen remodeling for any length of time, you may have become convinced that it's not even worthwhile to consider starting a renovation unless you're ready to spend fifty thousand dollars.

You can certainly be forgiven if you've adopted that attitude, but there's a good chance you're mistaken. Many people, perhaps yourself included, first start considering remodeling their kitchen because of things like nicks in the laminate or cracked tile and missing grout in the counterop. Or they may have drawers that don't have drawer glides, or cabinets with broken hinges. Or maybe they just think the color of the cabinets is ugly, or the vinyl floor tiles are peeling up. Perhaps their appliances are a wonderful shade of avocado.

So they start investigating the ins and outs of kitchen remodeling. At first they're just interested in replacing or fixing the things that are lacking in their kitchen. But as they continue to research, they start to see all these wonderful things: Oak cabinets, granite countertops, commercial stainless steel ranges with six burners and massive hoods, etc. And then they begin to lose sight of why they started this quest as AD1their desires become more and more grandiose.

But maybe they (or you) don't need granite countertops, oak cabinets, or a six burner stove. Perhaps a coat of paint and some refacing would work fine for the cabinets. Maybe a nice linoleum floor and a new sink. Possibly replace that old scratched laminate countertop with a new one. You might be surprised how much some of them look like granite nowadays. Add in some new stainless steel (or black or white if you prefer) appliances and a coat of paint on the walls, and you might think you're standing in a brand new kitchen. And for one-fifth of what you thought you'd have to pay.

One popular change that you might want to keep under consideration is the removal of a wall. If done right, this can work wonders for making a small kitchen feel spacious and open. Of course, you must make certain that any wall you remove is not structural. If removal of the full wall is not feasible, consider removing part of it and making it into a 'half wall' where only the top half or so is taken out, or creating a 'pass-thru' - more or less a square or rectangular hole in the wall. These can also make a world of difference in the feel of the finished room.

Of course, it could be that your kitchen does need major updating. Maybe your stove and refrigerator are right next to each other. Any remodel worth the name has to change that. Maybe there's just not enough room for the four or five people that normally prepare meals in your house - so you really do need to expand outside the current kitchen walls.

But make sure that any major (and expensive) changes occur because you need them or you really want them - not because you see them in every magazine you pick up or every TV design show you watch.

To get more kitchen remodeling ideas, such as how to design a kitchen, check out http://www.bestkitchenremodelingideas.com.

Build Your Own Hovercraft In A Weekend

Hovercrafts, also known as Air-Cushion Vehicles (ACV), are amphibious vehicles that move on a layer of pressurized air. Because of their unique design, they can cruise over virtually any surface: water, road, grass, snow and ice. As a result of their flexible nature, Hovercrafts have a great advantage in military applications, but they aren't just for the military. Lots of hobbyists love them too, especially since they are easy to build and with a good set of plans you can build a Hovercraft in a single weekend.

Some hobbyists prefer building and racing radio-controlled hovercrafts, which much like toy boats and helicopters, are controlled from a distance. But theres a lot more fun to be had than watching a small toy hovercraft fly around the local pond. You can actually build a hovercraft for yourself, and then get in it and take it for a drive. You can take your hovercraft for a nice leisurely cruise on the lake, or you can race your kids in the crafts you helped them build! If you get even more involved in hovercraft construction and operation, there are clubs to join as well so you can race fellow hobbyists and share building tips that will help you get more speed out of your craft.

And I have to say, Im a big klutz and even I managed to follow these plans without hurting myself or anyone else in the vicinity. On a weekend trip to my sisters, who happens to live near a lake, I made a short supply run to Lowes and then arrived on my sisters doorstep with plywood stacked up in the car. Her husband, myself and my brother put the Hovercraft together in less than a day and then spent the early part of the evening fighting over who got to use it next, so I think next time were going to try putting two more together so we can all race each other. Having done it once, Im pretty sure now I could just build the next one myself. The plans are easy to follow and well-illustrated for even a hardware newbie like myself to follow. And they really are just an incredible amount of fun. I'm actually looking forward to winter so I can try it out on the ice.

Want to build your own Hovercraft? Get a good set of Hovercraft Design Plans and get started on your weekend project. Convince a couple of friends to join you, and you can start racing them.

Tile Shower Pan Installation Tips

Tile shower pan installation tips can help you build a ceramic shower yourself. Also the more you know about how to build a shower pan, the better you can work with the tradesman who actually builds your shower for you.

The traditional way to build a shower pan is to use masonry to build a base upon which the tile is set and grouted. This is a simple concept but not so simple to actually do. There are several tricks that tile setters use that make it hard for a normal handy person to build a shower pan. The stakes are high when building a shower pan. Most of the critical elements of a shower floor get covered up during construction. If you make mistakes and the shower leaks, there is no easy way to redo your mistakes so everything must be torn out and you get to start over.

See the real reason for a shower pan is that a shower floor naturally leaks. The grout does anyway. The grout in a shower floor is porous...water goes through it. Without a waterproof liner under the floor, some of the water in the shower will go right through the shower base and rot the subfloor. So a shower pan has a waterproof liner underneath the ceramic tile designed to route any water coming through the grout to the drain. The drain is especially designed with weep holes under the surface of the floor to catch the runoff that moves through the grout.

The steps to building the pan are these basic processes.

• Build a solid subfloor, either wood or concrete.
• Set the drain so the finished height is at the finished level of the floor.
• Pour the first base layer of mortar sloped to the base of the drain.
• Put in the vinyl pan liner six inches up the walls and glue to the base of the drain.
• Put gravel in lower drain holes to keep hole open.
• Pour top base masonry level sloped to the drain.
• Lay tile with thinset over cured base.
• Grout tile.

That's the concept and it's a fairly simple concept with quite a few tricks and also many variations. For example, some people put the vinyl membrane on the bottom and just pour and slope one coat of masonry.

The way to avoid all this process is with a tile ready shower. At least three companies make complete systems that include pans with built in drains all ready for tile to be installed after the pans are set in place. Some systems use foam and vinyl sheets to make the pans in any configuration. Others use standard pans which may or may not fit your application. But the tile ready shower pans save a lot of time and require less skill. The disadvantage is cost. Complete traditionally constructed tile showers can cost less than just the parts for some of the tile ready showers.

Also you can get fiberglass shower pans to use as shower floors. These pans are probably available at your local building supply store. You can use a fiberglass pan as a base and put tile on the rest of the shower. Fiberglass shower pans are not made for tile installation over the pan. Also anything other than standard sizes will be unavailable or very expensive.

You can see there are alternatives to a traditional masonry shower, but there are good reasons why most tile showers are still built the "old" way!

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

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