Deciding which lighting fixture to purchase for your home is an important task. Thinking on whether you are shopping for a traditional design complete with multiple tiers,glass baubles and candelabra styled lamps? Or you're probably looking for a single-tier style carved out of wood. Whatever the style, and your preference, consider the look of your home's current decor and work with it.
For example, if you have a post-modern home feel, having a chandelier with colorful blown glass diffusers and flowers may not work well, as you want your lighting fixture to heighten the look of your home with its glow and beauty, and not create a distorted look. The last step is to consider is, woud your ighting piece put a dent on your electricity bills?
Not too many people realize this, but lighting does cost a bit of money, especially if they leave their lights on when they don't need them. If you're one of those people who feels the need to leave their lights on for whatever reason, consider replacing your bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs or any comparable lighting types, as this will help your office save money, and use enrgy-efficient lighting.
There Are A Lot Of Chandelier Designs; So Choose The Appropriate One
Crystal lighting fixtures come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Deciding and selecting the perfect chandelier for your home may prove to be a very tedious task. Although most individuals prefer shiny brass multi-arms with faux candle socket and flame-shaped bulbs, you can always choose your own unique chandelier in order to make it fit perfectly into your home.
The most important thing to consider before your chandelier-shopping hunting activity, is to measure the dimensions of the room where the ighting piece will be installed. Add the width and the length of the room in feet and then convert it to inches. The number you will get in inches will be the near about diameter of the chandelier.
Take Note Of A Chandelier's Proper Placement
Another major consideration for homeowners, is the proper placement of the lighting piece. It should be placed in the ceiling in such a manner that the light is equally distributed in the area. In order to avoid accidents, the roughly estimated gap between the table and the chandelier should be 30 inches.
To further maximize wall art decors, it is best to make use of recessed lighting. For dining and other special occasions, a dimmer light can create a preset level. Two or three low-voltage pendants can also be used, particulary in cases where your table is long and narrow, as this will distribute light properly.
Choosing the right chandelier will do wonders for the beauty and style of your home. In the past, these fixtures were designed for use of the wealthy and the powerful. It is believed that to build an impressive and complete home structure, there is a need to find the perfect ighting fixture that is capable of creating its own unique and exquisite beauty.
June 30, 2008
Is Your Crystal Chandelier Too Gaudy For Your Space?
Sawing By Hand
Sawing wood is one of the most basic and necessary DIY skills. So its not surprising that whatever you do – be it cutting intricate shapes or sawing a plank to size – there’s a saw to suit the job.
Most of us take wood for granted, but in fact, what saw you should use depends on the job. This also depends on the type of wood you are cutting. In spite of the widespread use of power saws, sawing by hand is often still the only efficient way to cut wood. The choice in handsaws in enormous and with many of them designed for specific cutting jobs, choosing the right ones is an important step towards successful carpentry.
When you use a saw, the cutting edges or teeth score into the wood. The kerf is the width of this cut. The severed wood crumbles into sawdust, and then away from the work piece with the spaces or gullets between the teeth.
Most saws have there teeth bent out from the blade with alternate teeth in opposite directions. This is the set. The set makes it far easier to cut with and stops the saw teeth from clogging with the sawdust. The set also enables you to adjust your cutting line slightly while you work, as it makes the saw cut a little wider than the actual thickness of the blade.
The size of the teeth makes a saw suitable for some jobs and unsuitable for others. Tooth size is a measurement, taken according to how many teeth there are per inch of saw, abbreviated to ppi. The more teeth a saw blade has the finer the cut. Consequently a saw with 16 teeth to the inch has 16ppi will cut finer, though slower, than a saw which has 12ppi.
For most jobs, a straight cut is normally all that is required – for this, you will need a hand or back saw.
There are several kinds of handsaws, but for most general-purpose work, a panel saw will prove the most useful. This gets its name from its traditional job of cutting up panels for wardrobes and cupboard backs, drawer bottoms and so on. A panel saw has a thin, flexible un-backed blade and will cut chipboard, ply, hardboard and any light timber. A panel saw can also be used for joint making, in some circumstanced. The best size for a panel saw is between 560mm and 600mm long and has 10ppi.
Although the traditional shape has scarcely changed for centuries, modern designs incorporate some new ideas. For example, one has a handle which can be used to measure angles of 45 degree’s and 90 degree’s, with the back of the saw serving as a straight edge.
Backsaws are identified by their steel or brass back. This has two functions: it grips the whole blade along its length to keep is rigid; and provides weight and stability when the saw is in use. The most useful type of backsaw is the tenon saw, used to make small accurate cuts both with and across the grain. For general cuts use 250mm to 300mm tenon saw with 14-16ppi is best.
Both panel and tenon saws are available with wood and plastic handles. The type of handle you choose is really a matter of personal preference. Wood tends to be more comfortable to use over long periods as it absorbs perspiration better, but plastic will almost certainly be cheaper and is less vulnerable to damaged.
How To Use Nails
Nails may look like simple things but in fact, there are dozens of different types, each suited to a particular job. Knowing the right one to use will help to make sure your work is fixed properly – and permanently.
Nailing is quick – you do not have to make elaborate preparations to do it – and nails are still the cheapest way of joining tow pieces of wood together. Unfortunately ‘hammer and nails carpentry’ is often used as a derogatory term when in fact correctly used, nail provide a perfectly sound joint.
For instance, there is nothing slipshod in nailing palings to a fence. Screws would be impractical, not just they are more expensive and time-consuming to use, but because you would not get a better job – the fence certainly would not last any longer.
Nails are most frequency associated with woodwork, yet they are also the standard as well as a number of other specialist jobs. Head size and shape can be matched to the job in hand, as can the finish – although are made of a mild steel wire, they are often coated to prevent rustling, usually by galvanizing or sherardizing.
Before buying any nails, you must yourself the following questions:
What type of nail do I need?
This is governed by the materials your are fixing. For example if you are doing rought constructional wood work or outdoor jobs your would use round wire nails; for planed timber that is to be painted, finer oval wire nails would be a better choice, and so on.
What size of nail do I want?
Nail size is usually expressed as a length. The length you choose is mostly a matter of judgement, but a rule of thumb is that the nail should be three times as long as the thickness of the timber it is fixing. The thickness of the nail is generally related to its length although varying thickness is available. It is as well to check – you do not want a thin, spindly nail if you are fixing think boards; and equally, a think nail could split thin boards.
How many will I need?
This governs the way you buy the nails. If you only need a few of one type then a prepack will probably be the most convenient, but is usually the most expensive option. Otherwise nails are normally sold loose and by weight, this works out much cheaper. But if you do by nails in this way remember to label them and pack the so they are kept clean, otherwise they will soon corrode and they can be tedious to sort out the size once they have been mixed.
There are of course many different nail types such as a Clout nail, a Flooring brad and a masonry nail. Don’t worry however, we will be covering them all soon in a future article.
In summary a lot of using a hammer and nail is very much common sense, not rushing and stopping to think about a job, before wading in with a big hammer. Remember the old saying of measure twice cut once.
Sanding Floorboards
Sanding floorboards is a very popular alternative to laminate flooring. It usually works out much less expensive, and a depending on the style of your home can often look much better.
The great beauty of sanded floorboards is they can usually be completed start to finish over the space of a weekend, depending on the size of the room and of course, providing you have the right equipment.
You should prepare the surface before sanding by punching all the nail heads below the surface of the floor and filling the gaps in-between the floorboards with wood strips. You can then use woof filler to cover all the smaller gaps.
Modern sanding equipment allows you to sand down a floor in a matter of hours with the minimum of fuss and effort. However, there are some essential safety tips you must obey.
First, it is important to wear the correct clothing. Avoid loose, flapping trousers and shirtsleeves – a pair of overalls in perhaps the ideal outfit. Even though modern sanders are fitted with dust bags, a certain amount of fine dust is bound to fly around, so wear and pair of goggles, a dust mask and some tight fitting headwear. Exposure to high-revving machinery can damage your hearing, so you may like to wear ear defenders.
Before you start, open up a window to allow dust to escape and seal off all doorways. Then move the large floor sander into the middle of the room and fit a medium abrasive sheet to the drum. Make sure that the machine is off before you plug it into the mains.
Loop the cable out of your way over your shoulder and hold the machine securely by both handles. Tilt the sander backwards and switch it on. Wait until the machine reaches top speed and lower the drum gently to the floor. The sander will exert a strong pull, so do not let it run away from you. Start sanding diagonally across the room, at an angle to the boards. Walk in a straight line until the machine reaches the skirting board at the far end of the room.
Quickly tilt the machine backwards, turn it around and work back in the same direction, overlapping the original strip by a few millimetres. Continue in this fashion until the whole floor has been covered once. Switch off the sander, unplug it and fit a fine abrasive sheet. Sweep the floor to remove any loose dust. Then make a third and final run, this time working backwards and forwards in the same direction as the boards.
You can now tackle the outer edge of the room. Remove the large sander and move the rotary sander into position. Fit a medium abrasive disc and plug in, switch on. Work slowly around the outside of the room, stopping occasionally sweep away loose dust and to check the condition of the disc.
There will be a few areas, mainly awkward corners, which you cannot reach with the rotary sander. Tackle these with an orbital sander.
June 26, 2008
Exterior Bamboo Blinds Helps Keep Out The Sun
Yes now you too can ward off evil with your exterior bamboo blinds. Actually, culture is rich with the uses of many natural growing woods and plants being used around the house. The reasons behind these items being used around the house have changed significantly from ancient times. The Japanese culture used to use exterior bamboo blinds to ward off evil spirits. If you were to study the Chinese culture, you would find that bamboo means long life and in the India culture it means friendship. While in today's world, we may see exterior bamboo blinds as a way to ward off the evil sunrays washing out the television or creating unwanted heat, they have had their purposes in the ancient cultures.
For instance, in Asia, huts were made of bamboo and grass; even the window coverings were bamboo. The use of bamboo in Asia was to keep out inclement weather. So yes, our world has changed to where we find bamboo a signature of the tropical worlds such as Japan and Asia and we find we want to create that atmosphere in our backyard.
Exterior bamboo blinds are great for your backyard, not only because they offer you more shade on your porch and are the envy of friends for decorating your home in a new fashion, but because they hold up during any type of weather. The bamboo does need to be treated for weather resistance every year, and you will want to switch the side that is exposed to the sun every once in a while, but you will be protected.
You will be able to have those indoor barbeques on your porch during a rainstorm and be protected. The bamboo treatment allows for the reduction of mildew not only on the blinds, but also in the area you are protecting.
Not only can you switch, which side is exposed to the sun whenever you need to, but also the installation of these blinds is extremely easy. You do not have to hire a contractor to help you. The instructions are very easy to follow and you just need an electrical screwdriver.
There are two styles of exterior bamboo blinds, the venation and the roll up. The roll up bamboo blind is easier to deal with because you simply roll it up and secure it to the straps on the ceiling. The venation works off the rope system typical of most mini blinds so they tend to get tangled.
When you seek out bamboo porch blinds you will need to go to a specialty blinds shop or order from a catalog. Most local hardware stores do not carry these types of blinds unless you live in the tropics. A low demand for tropical blinds in the other part of the states shows that it is more cost effective to order them for a person. So be aware you will have to wait a few weeks before you can install the blinds. It is a good idea to start looking at the end of winter before the hot weather returns.
Seven Things You Should Know Before Buying a Steam Shower
Steam showers are growing in popularity as an elegant add-on to any master bathroom. Here are a few things you should know before buying.
What is a steam shower? A steam shower is a watertight enclosure with a steam converter that heats water to a boil, then forces it through nozzles inside the stall.
Why should you buy one? Some health practitioners and healers believe that steam has health benefits from detoxification to improved respiratory function.
What features are common? Steam showers can include a showerhead, steam jets, jet massagers, and aromatherapy fixtures. Other features include iPod hookups, built-in radios, and foot massagers.
Who can’t use a steam shower? Pregnant women, young children, people with diabetes and high blood pressure shouldn’t use steam showers. If you have any questions, check with your doctor before buying one.
Even conversion kits are a lot of work to install. You can buy a conversion kit to transform your old shower into a steam shower. However, this will still require significant electrical, plumbing, and construction work.
Choose the right vendor. Don’t buy a steam shower from an unknown vendor. You’re likely to get a product without a warranty or any customer support, and it may not look anything like you expected it to.
A steam shower can be a wonderful addition to your bathroom. But there are a few things to consider before buying. Know the facts about steam showers, and you’re sure to make the right decision for your bathroom.
Six Variations on the Common Shower
When we think of showers, most of us imagine a simple shower-bath or stand-up shower with a curtain. But there are other, more luxurious options out there. Here are just a few elegant variations on the common shower.
Walk-in showers. The floor of the walk-in shower is level with the floor of the bathroom.
Steam showers. Steam showers use a steam converter to change water into water vapor. The vapor is then ejected into the shower stall using steam jets. Most steam showers also include an ordinary showerhead, so you can rinse off after your steam shower.
Two-person showers. These showers incorporate two showerheads or two sets of jets, one on each side of the stall. The stalls themselves are often twice the size of an ordinary shower stall; some are as large as bathtubs.
Shower cubicles. A shower cubicle is an enclosed shower that comes in many shapes and sizes. The enclosures are usually made of glass panels with sliding doors.
Power showers. Power showers use an electric pump to increase the water pressure coming out of your showerhead. Some power shower pumps include controls that can alter the flow of water to produce different types of massaging jets and pulses.
Rain showers. Rain showers have a showerhead attached directly above so that the water pours down like rain or a waterfall. Rain showers often include seats or benches that allow users to sit beneath the water as it falls.
Upscale showers include radios and music, massaging jets, interesting and elegant enclosure shapes, and even room for two people. With all the options out there, we’re sure you’ll find plenty of excuses to stay just a few more minutes in your shower.
June 24, 2008
Getting Kitchen Cabinets of Your Choice
Have you always wanted your kitchen to look like the ones that you see in interior design magazines?
It is not very difficult to achieve especially if you know how to go about it. With the right amount of planning, you too can have a kitchen that looks and functions equally well.
The first step towards a designer kitchen is kitchen cabinets. Do not look at kitchen cabinets as mere storage spaces.
Today, they deliver a strong statement about your tastes and styles. The best part about them is that they are no longer limited to a few designs and styles.
The sky is the limit when it comes to kitchen cabinets. From high quality wood, fiber and modular ones, several designs and styles are available.
Sorting cabinets
Wooden cabinets can never go out of style no matter what look you choose for your home. The classic rich appeal of a wooden cabinet is irreplaceable. Cherry kitchen cabinets have become extremely popular in the last few years. They are the perfect combination of contemporary looks and modern styling.
One of the main reasons for their popularity is that a cherry cabinet blends with almost all kinds of kitchen and room décor. Apart from cherry, there is maple, red birch or oak to choose from. When it comes to selecting a cabinet, it eventually comes down to pricing and personal choice. The cabinets have to blend with the appliances, the flooring, the countertops etc. Add the pricing factor to this and it becomes easier for you to come down to a few choices.
Discounts
On the other hand, if you are ready to sacrifice slightly on the looks and go for a better price deal, then you can look for unfinished cabinets online.
There are several websites that offer unfinished cabinets for much less than what they are actually worth.
Give the Gift of Decorative Time
Out of the millions of homes in the United States, there is one item that continuously makes an appearance in some form or another. Every household displays at least three to five clocks within a home. Since clocks serve the very important function of alerting the current time, it is a plus when they magically transform the décor of any room. This is why clocks make perfect gifts for any occasion, including birthdays, Christmas, graduations, and commemorative moments, such as weddings and anniversaries.
Since the start of ancient civilizations, humans have come up with ways to tell time. Over the past 4,500 years, the methods and styles of time telling have become quite advanced to the point that with a click of a button, an assortment of never-ending clock ideas and features located across the World Wide Web is ready for the choosing. While improving the accuracy of timekeeping devices has been an important goal, the majority of clock styles on the market are created to mainly elevate the décor within a home.
Today, we no longer depend on primitive sundials and water-operated fountain clocks. We thank the invention of coiled springs in the 1400s, which allowed the creation of smaller clocks. Without the genius of Christiaan Huygens in 1656, the pendulum clock (with weights and a swinging pendulum) would cease to exist.
Decorative Clocks
Since clocks are responsible for a rather important everyday task, and have become quite the popular decorating elements – they make exceptional gifts that easily turn into memorable keepsakes. This includes wall selections, tabletop pieces, elaborate wrought iron creations, and even options that withstand Mother Nature, as seen with indoor-outdoor clocks.
The flower lover may enjoy the Boutique Roses Wall Clock, which comes with a classic round shape, antique finish, and Roman numeral face. The antique bouquet of roses accent can uplift a kitchen or add charm to a sewing room. With the Carl Jorgen Wall Clock, a more futuristic design emerges, which is great for a teenage décor or bar room. Western-themed décor would benefit from the Cowboy Wall Clock or Boots Wall Clock from Home Furnishing Boutique. When looking to give the gift of novelty, the Gear Wall Clock offers a different appeal to a hallway or foyer.
Specialty Clocks
When it comes to celebrating a special occasion, these particular moments call for a specialty clock that serves as a constant reminder for the achievement of a graduating college senior or the admiration you hold for your parent's 25 solid years of marriage. The anniversary clocks offered at Home Furnishing Boutique provide the perfect gestures to honor ever-lasting love. With the Dominion Solid Brass Gold Plated Anniversary Clock, the cozy round shape shines with solid brass and gold plating. Customization is possible on the interior or exterior of the clock lid.
With the Executive Walnut Finish Plaque Anniversary Clock, the attractive solid hardwood with a classic walnut finish easily adds a memorable touch to a desk, shelf, or mantle. With this customizable clock, receivers of this gift readily enjoy the additional medallion and brass nameplate that accompanies the display. However, the whimsical Jubilee Brass with Glass Dome Anniversary Clock makes the perfect accompaniment for a fireplace with its appealing brass finish and metal casing. Additional features sealed within the glass dome include the brass pillars, and a pendulum that delicately sways with Swarovsky crystal and a two-tone diamond cut dial ring – a complete eye catcher.
Want to pair a keepsake clock with a photo of the grandkids? Consider the Desk Portrait Solid Brass Desk Clock, which allows Grandma and Grandpa to greet their grandchildren when telling the time. Other clocks that make great anniversary gifts, includes the Lord Baltimore Solid Brass Pedestal Clock and the lantern-style looking Wentworth Brass Finish Carriage Style Desk Clock.
USA Wooden Clocks
Home Furnishing Boutique also supplies a collection of fine, handmade wooden clocks fashioned in the U.S.A with mantle and wall styles to consider. Have you ever walked into the home of a relative and noticed that their fireplace seemed a bit bare? In order to add to their décor, consider an attractive wooden mantle clock of solid cherry, white maple, or colored oak.
With the Crystal Seville Ball Pendulum Mantle Clock, the solid cherry wood cabinet and warm cherry finish showcases a mesmerizing Swarovsky crystal ball pendulum surrounded by twisted brass pillars and a diamond-cut rose pattern found on the dial. The Seville Solid Cherry Glass Window Mantle Clock offers a round, open dial of brass and silver and cathedral windows – joined by Roman numerals. You also have the choice of clocks that not only display the time, but also emit single and dual chimes.
As for wooden wall clocks, the fascinating display that a pendulum clock delivers can create a completely different look to a room. A classic style wall clock can make an attractive addition to the newly remodeled bathroom at your best friend's house. Perhaps Grandma would enjoy the Carlisle Oak American Classic Replica Schoolhouse Wall Clock with an oak cabinet and finish for the kitchen. Overall, wooden wall clocks have the power to add character and charm to any room in a house with an array of dark antique finishes and traditional styles.
Think Garden Gifts for the Holidays!
There is nothing better than being able to relax in the garden on a lovely day. Whether you want to be out there soaking up the sun while you read a book or you just want to unwind and be in the essence of nature, having a great garden is the best option for activities like these. If this is not your idea of a lovely day and you would prefer it when the rain is pouring, there are many options for that too. It doesn't matter if you have a small garden or a large one, as long as there is space for you to relax, there are many things you can add to your garden to make it a relaxing retreat. If you have friends, co-workers or family that enjoy their gardens, think Garden Gifts for the Holidays.
Garden Gnomes
Garden gnomes look good in any garden, as long as you can fit them in, they deserve to be there! You also have a wide variety when choosing one of these items for your garden; just a few of them are; the Artemisia Gnome is a 14" tall green pixie that will go well in any garden that's green. She has a beautiful smile with her blonde hair and is made from unbreakable aluminum. The Dianthus Gnome is a more colorful pixie, dressed in pretty pink and stands at 12". She will add brightness and happiness to any garden! The Farming Gnome is of a short farmer with a big beard. He is also colorful and will look lovely in any garden that needs, or has, a bit of color. He is also 14" tall. The Osmunda Gnome is a happy pixie indeed! This garden fairy will bring smiles to the faces of its viewers and will have you pleasantly spending more time in your garden. The Woodland Gnome is a merry old man that has his beard neatly tucked into his belt, and offers a friendly smile to whoever walks near his domain. This gnome stands at 12" and will bring color to any garden.
Garden Sprites
Garden sprites are great if you are looking to add some realism and color to your garden, and there are so many different ones to choose from you are sure to find the one that is perfect for your garden. Like the April Showers Garden Sprite, it is hand cast from an original sculpture and is of a little girl with a watering can. This is great for a large garden and can be put in a section with long grass, on a rock close to a pond. The Charlie My Boy Sprite is also hand cast and has a silver mirror ball that the sculpture, a little boy, is holding in his hands. This Garden Sprite will look wonderful if placed in a garden around a lot of pretty flowers. Instead of having just an ordinary downspout in your garden, the Old Boot Downspouter provides something more interesting and fun. If not the boot, how about the Ladybug Downspouter, the Curious Kitten or the Turtle Downspouter? These are all great and they look beautiful too. The Jr Fire Chief Garden Sprite is a very cute one indeed, of a little boy dressed as a fireman with a miniature hose to water your garden!
Patio Fountains
There is nothing more soothing than sitting in your garden and listening to the flow of water from a beautiful patio fountain. There are big ones, small ones, colorful ones and plain ones; whatever you think will suit your garden. Choose from fairies, angels, dolphins, frogs and even wishing well fountains, like in the olden days!
Garden Benches
If you want to sit in your garden and relax, you are going to need something comfortable to sit on. There are many great garden benches available that would suit your garden perfectly. Some are small, just enough for two people to sit on, so if you have a small garden you could use one of those, but there are also larger ones like the Lutyen l Bench, this one is best when put at a large tree because it is in the shape of a half moon, so putting it almost around your favorite tree in the garden will make the most relaxing spot ever! It is made from wrought iron so it will last a long time and it comes with a full size comfortable cushion, providing you with maximum comfort.
Weathervanes
These make an unusual gift. Forged in the USA, these iron weathervanes come in all the favorite designs, Deer, Horse, Rooster and more – even a Fireman!
There are many ways in which one can make their garden into something more, a place where they can just chill out when they get home from a hard days work or when they are at home during the day and just feel like being on their own. So why not treat yourself while you are shopping for other's gifts.
June 21, 2008
When You Don’t Need To Call A Plumber
Don’t get me wrong. A good professional plumber is worth his/her weight in gold when you have a serious problem with your plumbing system. Over the years I’ve had to make that call and I’ve been more than satisfied with the quick response and competent work that has been done. The only thing that hurt a bit was the bottom line when I wrote out the check.
It’s interesting that topics such as this are not a part of the typical high school curriculum. As a former educator, I’ve always believed that the education of our young people should include a number of levels of learning including how to get along in the real world of home owning, etc. Granted, many secondary schools offer a fine curriculum in areas such as auto mechanics, woodworking, etc. but they really fall short in teaching about the everyday problems people come face to face with as adults.
Enough of the soapbox lecture.
The purpose of this brief article is to cover some of the basics involved in taking care of routine plumbing problems that eventually all of us will have to face. Of all the systems in the home, I hate dealing with plumbing the most! Many repairs need to be completed before your dry run (excuse the pun) can be run to see if the problem is fixed. If it’s not, you usually have to start all over again, which is frustrating to say the least.
One of the most common household plumbing problems is the stopped-up toilet. We recently moved to a new home and were having a lot of problems with toilet stoppage. We hadn’t changed our diet so we ruled that out as the cause and tried figuring out what the real problem was. Well, with a little help from the builder we found out that this newer toiled required you to hold the handle down a little longer to get a complete flush. You would think that there would be some kind of warning label or something that would clue you into this, but no. The problem went away after we followed his advise. Easy fix.
Traditional plungers have been upgraded to configurations that will get the job done quicker and easier. There is a plunger called “power plunger”. Ask for it by name at your local hardware store or home center. Chances are that it may be marketed under a different name. Make sure that the salesperson knows that the item is, in fact, what is typically called a “power plunger”. This plunger is effective in clearing clogs from toilets, sinks and bathtubs. If your kitchen sink is clogged and is connected to a dishwasher, be sure to clamp-off the dishwasher hose so that the plunger will work completely on the drainpipe rather than having some of its pressure diverted (uselessly) to the dishwasher. When the clog is cleared don’t forget to remove the clamp from the dishwasher hose or you will have some unpleasant consequences when you do wash the next load of dishes.
I’m not a big fan of liquid drain cleaners. I’ve found that they usually don’t get the job done (although some people will beg to differ). If you elect to use a chemical drain opener, be sure that it doesn’t have chemicals that may damage your piping (read the label on the box or bottle). Also, most of these chemical cleaners will wreak havoc if they touch exposed skin so, if you choose to try them, be sure to wear protective gloves and a long sleeved shirt and wash your hands thoroughly when your finished. If you don’t use the entire bottle, make sure it’s stored in a safe place where children can’t get to it. Most of the cleaners include chemicals that are so toxic that death may result if they’re ingested. There are some liquid drain cleaners that are “earth friendly” and are less hazardous to use. I’m not sure that they “pack the punch” that more tradition liquid drain cleaners do but I’m not an expert by any means in this area.
OK, you’ve tried a “power plunger” and even some liquid drain openers but the drain remains clogged. What’s next? Your best bet is to buy a small hand auger. Using the auger is simple. Push it into the drain until you reach resistance and then close the thumbscrew auger lock with about a foot of the auger extending from the drain opening. Turn the auger handle clockwise and you will hopefully move it past the bend in the pipe (where the clog may be). If the drain is still clogged, loosen the lock and repeat the process. Eventually, the clog should be forced down the drainpipe and the problem will be solved. If you suspect that there is an object that is clogging the drain, turn the auger counterclockwise to remove it.
If all else fails and you have access to the plumbing beneath the clogged unit, you can try to remove the trap, etc. to see if this helps locate the clog. Be sure to use a cloth to protect the metal before you try to loosen the joint to avoid damage.
No joy? Call a plumber.
The longer you live in your abode, the greater the chances that the seals under the pop up stoppers in the sink and bathtub may begin to leak so that the water drains before you’re ready for it to drain. A replacement stopper is your best bet for the bathtub. The fresh seal should take care of the problem. The sink, on the other hand can be easily fixed in just a few minutes. Inside the cabinet there’s a rod that protrudes from the drainpipe. This is called a lift rod. This rod passes through a horizontal piece of metal called the clevis strap and is fixed in place with a spring clip. Sometimes the clip has become loose and the lift rod is no longer running through the hole in the clevis strap. Make sure to force the clamp downward to increase its holding power then run the lift rod back through the clevis strap and slide the clip back on. If this solves the problem, you’re finished. Sometimes the seal in the stopper has become worn and needs a little more downward pressure to make a watertight seal. Look at the top of the clevis strap for a thumbscrew and after loosing it, move it upwards a bit (usually a half inch will suffice). Tighten the screw and your problems should be over.
Rodent And Animal Control For Your Home
We all like to satisfy our winter needs for a warm, safe place with plenty of food in the pantry. But so do rodents and other animals. When these pests intrude on our property, it becomes a situation much like kicking out the unwelcome kid next door who is constantly coming over and staying past dinner, and insists on using everything in your house for his own purposes. There are several types of animals to watch out for as it gets colder: rats, mice, raccoons, and opossums.
Rats & Mice: The general types of these rodents that exist in your home can include the Norway rat, the roof (or black) rat and the house mouse. Roof rats usually stake out attics or cabinets and can climb quite well. Norway rats choose to live in the ground by digging burrows against foundations, tree trunks, and gardens. Their burrows can lead into crawl spaces and small openings around pipes which can enable them to inhabit your kitchens and bathrooms.
No matter the type of rat that lives in your home, you can be sure that it will be attracted to any food item you have in your pantry, especially high-quality food products such as meat and fresh grain. If you have pets, be extra cautious about foods being left out, because rats will smell and detect dog food that is sitting out.
Rats need one-half to one fluid ounce of water everyday when consuming dry foods. They have extremely sharp senses of taste, hearing, and smell. Once they are aware of what is within their reach and given their keen senses, rats will do anything to get to food or shelter. Overall, rats are able to enter a building through openings that are wider than half an inch across. Rats have a very short life span -- most die within a year. However, rats can breed rapidly, so even though they die off quickly, their young will survive them. Female rats produce five or six litters of about half a dozen to a dozen young each year.
Now that you know a little about the rat's habits, how can you tell that you have rats living alongside you in your home? Spotting droppings or visible signs of fresh gnawing should be an obvious indicator of rats. Rat tracks can appear on dusty surfaces or mud. Rats usually build runways and burrows to get into your home and they can be found next to buildings and under debris and low vegetation.
Rodent Treatment
There are many things you can do to prevent rats, but what about the rats you know are already snooping in your attic and dark corners?
Snap traps can be used along with baits to attract rats. However, once other rats see that a fellow rat has been killed from a snap trap, they will avoid it at all costs. The other drawback to using a snap trap is the potential health hazards it can cause when the rat is killed by the trap. Snap traps can also pose a danger to children or pets in your home, as they can break bones or cause an even more serious injury.
Glue-boards are traps that use non-drying glue to capture and hold down rodents. These traps can be placed under tables, furniture, next to walls, refrigerators, or any place where you suspect rodent activity. Glue-boards are designed to get the rodent stuck on the board so that they cannot escape. Like the snap traps, glue-boards can pose health problems if rats' bodies are pulled apart and exposed in your home.
Live traps are probably the easiest and most inexpensive rodent control out there. The other benefit of live traps is that it poses less risk or danger to animals you are not targeting, such as your pets. They also do not kill rats, unlike all the other methods discussed above. Instead, rats are captured and left in the trap until you dispose of them. Be sure to place enough bait to attract rats. If rats are without food, they may become anxious and eventually die, leaving behind their bodies to decay, as well as a horrible stench. Try to find areas where there are a lot of rat droppings, chewed entry points, and any other place you suspect rat activity or have heard noises from.
Rodent Proofing
Here are some simple rules of thumb you can adopt to prevent a rodent invasion in your home:
- Store all your accessible food in rodent-proof containers such as glass or metal
- Place your trash in tightly covered metal cans to prevent smells from escaping or potential rodent entry.
- Check your faucets to make sure they are functioning properly and to fix leaks as they occur, since gaps or holes around pipes can serve as easy entry points for rodents.
- Seal up any unnecessary openings with concrete or sheet metal. For other access points, a 1/4 inch hardware cloth or steel wool should do the trick.
- For pet owners, put any uneaten pet food away before you go to bed, as any pet food left out is subject to rodent consumption!
- Wipe your floors often! Any bits of food left on your floor may be game for mice.
Commensal Rodents
The most common commensal rodents, raccoon and opossums, are known to many homeowners as troublemakers because of the damage they can cause by hibernating in your attic or wreaking havoc in your garden.
These animals normally hide out in attics, under decks, sheds, garages, crawl spaces, etc. Sometimes, they choose to live in naturally formed holes near foundations. Raccoons and opossums especially have an affinity for digging in yards and garbage. They love to inhabit attics where they can care for their litter in a warm, dark, and enclosed environment. If they are living in your attic, chances are your attic has a strong odor, which can eventually make its way into the living area. Besides odor problems, raccoons can destroy your insulation and chew on any electrical wires present.
Preventing Animal Pests
Here are some ways you can prevent those pesky raccoons and opossums from entering your property:
Spray a non-chemical solution over the areas where these animals are prone to dig or consume food. This will leave a bad taste in their mouths and will discourage it from going to the same place to cause trouble.
- Use a non-drying glue when animals are climbing your bird feeder poles. Once the raccoon or opossum gets the glue from the pole on their paws, it will usually irritate them enough to discourage them from climbing the pole again.
- Implement a 24/7 motion detector near your fish pond. The motion detector will be able to detect the animal when it is in its range. The detector is non-chemical and will release a three-second spray of water to scare the pest away.
For raccoons and opossums who are already inhabiting your home, trapping with a bait (usually meat) is the most effective and viable way to get rid of them. However, you should only handle raccoons and opossums if you are an experienced handler. If you are not sure what to do, the best idea is to call an animal removal service. Anteater Pest and Lawn can send a trained professional out to the property to identify, inspect and design a program for you. The Exclusion portion of their Rodent Service is designed to:
- Identify rodent and rodent damage
- Inspect conditions conducive to rodents
- Seal/Close entry and exit points
- Install traps
- Return and remove traps
- Include a 1 Year renewable warranty
Once you are armed with the right facts and materials, you should be able to handle rodents quickly and efficiently before they overstay their welcome in your home and ruin your holidays.
Floor Basics - Floor Strength – Find A Good Contractor
>From experience and research both, you will find out that a floor would have to get into a very considerable bad shape before you really need to rip the entire structure out by the roots of your older home and start over. If a floor becomes water damaged due to sinks, bathtubs or other leakage from somewhere, and the owner is unaware of it, then obviously the affected flooring can rot and swell and might need to be replaced. In some cases it might be that some type of stain could hinder sanding and refinishing a wood floor, but this would be an unusual situation.
Sometimes a floor can sag in a corner but appear to be in good shape otherwise. This could mean that the seal plate on the foundation or the foundation itself has become rotted or weakened. Don’t be totally alarmed! Many times the seal plate can be fixed or part of the foundation can be repaired without too much hassle. You can add a floor jack (floor stand, floor support, what ever you want to call it ) under the floor for added strength too as well as lift the floor up some to level it back.
This brings me to another quick note that I should add. If the floors look sound, but you know you are going to put a water bed or some very heavy furniture or equipment on it, then adding floor jacks can save you some headaches down the road if the house is really old or your not sure.
Adding additional support can’t hurt but here are some facts to consider. Older waterbeds can weigh as much as 2000 lbs and if a house has been inspected and passes all modern building codes, then it should be able to handle the weight of your waterbed with no problems. This is because the weight is distributed over a broad range. Approximately 50 lbs per square ft. as a general estimate, therefore it exerts less weight per square foot than some of the other items in your home. You could have a refridgerator, fish tank, or even a book shelf that weighs more per square foot than a water bed. A good fact to know.
On the lighter and brighter side of things though, it is incredible what can be done to older floors to cover them or restore them. As a general rule, if the floor is structurally sound and stable, then it can be restored and the products and options available are countless. Just walk into a local home renovation or hardware store and you’ll soon see what I’m talking about. Wood floors can be sanded and refinished to look like new. Concrete floors can be sealed, repaired and painted to give either a smooth or rough style finish depending on it’s main purpose.
Without a doubt fixing floors can turn into some serious and back breaking work, but there are many tools available to get the job done right. If you need some heavy duty tools or equipment, it’s practical to go somewhere and rent what you need. Floor finishers, sanders, scrubbers… it’s all there and you don’t actually have to buy it knowing that you might only use it this one time.
What’s that you say… you would rather have someone else do it… is that it? I have said it before myself. I would rather save myself the frustration and prevent the act of bringing myself that much closer to hell by letting someone else do it..!! (Whatever “IT” is at the time.) Like a lot of people, I can carry on like a sailor without a boat, and I know that being in that state isn’t good for my health. Get someone that knows what to do..!!
Well of course there are tons of contractors out there, but finding the right one can seem tedious maybe. Or, maybe not if you know how to go about it the right way.
To find the right contractor has the same guidelines if you are remodeling the kitchen or giving the floors a new facelift. However, there probably are contractors that may specialize in floor replacement and repair and maybe choosing one for a specific type of job is practical.
As everyone should know, we can’t trust someone’s advertisement alone. We have to investigate at least a little to find out more. I know you have heard it before, and it still stands true in our modern days. Word of mouth is the best indicator and you can talk to some of your associates and friends to help with finding a good contractor. You might even get to see some of their work first hand which would really be a plus.
Call up some contractors after you get some potential ones chosen and get a quote from them and also use that time to talk to them extensively as much as possible. Don’t be in a hurry, and write down some potential questions in advance of getting a quote. I’m saying this because this leads to the next important thing to consider in the process.
An extremely important factor in your decision and quite possibly one of the most important when it comes to a pleasurable remodeling experience, is the personality of the contractor you choose. This person will be in and out of your home and maybe even have access to it at times while you are out and away from home. You are going to be seeing a great deal of your new contractor for at least a few weeks or more, (possibly), and you should be comfortable with that person. It stands to good reason that the stress and hassle of remodeling in itself will be easier if you are compatible with, and actually like the person who is doing the work for you.
Find out personal as well as professional information. Simply ask while having a conversation during the quote. Find out how long the contractor has been working in the field and how many jobs he has done. Will he be doing the work, or is this the last time you see him, and all of his crew comes over to do the work? Does he supervise first hand when other workers are there? Does he have a family? Take note of the vehicle he drives up in when he comes for the quote. Believe me, using common sense is always best. Even if he drives an older van or truck… how organized does everything look? Making small talk and learning about a person can go a very long way. The more you know the better and that goes deeper than the work at hand that needs to be done. That’s just it, you want the work done and done right. _ As always… Good Luck In Your Home Projects..!!
Choosing the Right Home Inspector
How would you grade your Home Inspector?
When making what is likely the biggest investment of your life (a home purchase), it is a wise thing to hire a home inspector. In some states, this is even required by law as a routine part of any real estate transaction. Idaho has no such requirement… leaving the decision to inspect a home as merely an “option” to both parties in the transaction. Not very long ago, there were no Home Inspectors at all, as the Home Inspection industry is a fairly new phenomenon. So, you are about to buy (or sell) a home and you decide to hire a home inspector. How do you find a good one? The right one for you? You could ask your Real Estate Agent for a referral as most people do. This is generally a really bad idea, and is discussed in detail at http://www.oxbowinspections.com/conflictinterest.php
The internet is your best resource to find the home inspector who’s right for you. Go to any search engine (Google, Yahoo, etc…) and type the words “xxxxxxx home inspector”… just replace the “x’s” with the name of the major city nearby. Pick 3 or 4 and compare them. And keep in mind, that just because an inspector comes in as the #1 entry does not mean he is the best. It merely means that his web site is better optimized… so it is wise to spread out your choices amongst the top 15 or 20 presented to you.
Idaho has no laws or regulations that control who may call themselves a “Home Inspector”. That’s right. The night cook at Denny’s can pick up a clipboard, pick out a name, and then pick your pocket. No experience or education is required. When comparing the web sites… look for experience in construction. Look for engineering backgrounds. Look for education. Also… the Home Inspection industry as a whole is self-governed to a degree by several major trade organizations. These include NACHI ( National Association of Certified Home Inspectors) and ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) just to name a few. Make sure that your inspector belongs to at least one of these. The reasons are many… but primarily these organizations have established standard operating procedures and ethical guidelines which their inspectors must follow. They also establish certain education and experience standards which are critically important since the State of Idaho has no standards at all.
Knowledge of building codes is an important part of being a home inspector. These codes exist for a reason… usually as a response to construction issues which went wrong and caused death and/or property destruction. Understanding how all the building systems (Plumbing, Heating, Electrical etc…) are connected and designed to work together to achieve the minimum standards set out in codes and regulations is vital to accuracy when inspecting any building. Your inspector of choice should be real familiar with the International Code Council.
Proper equipment is an important part of home inspections. Do you want the quickest way to tell if your home inspector is truly a professional? Look at his vehicle and the type of ladder he is using. I know of several “Inspectors” who use a small economy car or an XUV and have only a collapsible ladder that will fit inside. So ask yourself… how is he going to inspect your roof with a ladder that collapses? Most (not all) ladders of this type only extend to 21.5 feet and are rarely rated for more than 200 pounds. This would be like hiring a man with a hatchet to cut down a 70 foot Oak tree. As for me: I drive a full length Suburban which is professionally adorned with company logo and identification, and it not only carries all of my tools, test equipment, and reference materials… it also gets 22+ mpg and runs on corn/flex fuel… it also carries my three ladders which range from 8 feet to 30 feet (none are collapsible).
Look for those details that set your inspector out from the rest. Things like his dress. Does he have a uniform or monogrammed shirts, or is he wearing blue jeans and a t-shirt? A necktie is a bad idea… would that guy be willing to climb into an attic or a crawlspace? Likely not. I wear stretch slacks and a monogrammed polo-type shirt for maximum flexibility, with traction shoes for those tough roofs. My uniform is blue and black… just like my Suburban and my web site. Other details: his weight. If he is grossly overweight… how in the world can he negotiate a crawlspace or an attic? He can’t. Also, look for identification. The trade organizations that I described previously (NACHI, ASHI) do issue formal identification tags. These identify a member in good standing. Ask to see his I.D.
What about his pricing? Most inspectors have fairly low prices in order to stay competitive. If so… you should beware. This is the kind of guy who will tack on an extra $25 (or more) for gasoline fees beyond a certain distance. They also tend to charge more for older homes; charge more for larger homes; charge more for outbuildings; and charge a lot more for things like a Radon test. Before you know it, your “real” final bill will be several hundred dollars more than his advertised “base” price. And since I mentioned Radon… many inspectors will conduct a Radon test for a large extra fee. They use the same cheap charcoal canisters that you or I can purchase at Lowe’s. Do they know anything about Radon? Likely not. Ask for their certifications or identification. At the time of this writing, I am the only Home Inspector in all of Idaho who is certified by the National Radon Safety Board.
The inspection itself: How long does it take your inspector to complete? Most will finish in the 2 – 3 hour time frame so they can squeeze in 2 – 3 inspections per day and maximize their income. Rediculous! I will often spend 2 hours in the crawlspace alone! On average… my inspections take about 7½ hours. A professional Home Inspector will take you around your home, not only pointing out defects but also showing you areas that will require future maintenance. He will educate you on where shut offs are located and explain discrepancies that he cited in his report. Whenever you book a home inspection, you should never miss this golden opportunity to learn about the systems and features of your home.
The bottom line is: Choose your own Home Inspector. Grade several of them… then choose the one that’s right for you. When your Inspector arrives… grade him again. It is still not too late to choose someone else. Keep in mind that this is a huge investment you are making, and you should protect your investment by using the best inspector you can find. You are likely spending several hundred thousand dollars… so choosing an Inspector based on price in order to save a hundred bucks is just not smart. You will likely get exactly what you pay for.
June 19, 2008
Feng Shui Decorating Enhances Holiday Mood, Celebrations
Do holiday gatherings drive you crazy? Do your family get-togethers result in more stress than harmony? The problem may not be you or your loved ones. It could be your house.
As you prepare your home for the holidays this year, take a few moments to consider some of the following tips based on the principles of feng shui, the ancient art of enhancing positive energy within an environment. By enhancing this energy flow, known as “chi,” within your home, your holiday season is more likely to become a time of relaxation and goodwill.
•Banish clutter. This is one of the most basic feng shui rules, serving as a starting point for almost every other feng shui activity. As holiday decorations come out, some everyday items may have to be stored to prevent a cacophony of competing objects.
“It's not relaxing to be surrounded by so much stuff that you don't know where to look next,” says Linda Binns, owner of Harmony Inside & Out, specializing in holistic health and feng shui consulting. “People fall into the trap of thinking that they have to put out years' worth of decorations, whether they really like them or not, and somehow make everything fit around all their regular items.”
Binns suggests only displaying items you really love and not overloading your environment, which constricts the flow of positive energy and creates discord.
•Balance your color scheme. While you may love the bright reds, greens and golds of the holiday season, these colors augment existing energy and should be balanced with more calming shades, such as cream, blues and pale hues.
“There are places and times when you may want to create a lot of energy, and that's where you can mass those bright holiday decorations,” Binns says. For example, holiday meals can be more exciting and jovial when bright and shiny table settings and decorations are used.
•Decorate for harmony. Your choice and placement of decorations is crucial to the atmosphere of your home and to the harmony of those who enter. As mentioned above, too many bright colors can create an overly-stimulating environment and increase the risk of tension. Yet not enough holiday items will result in a “dull atmosphere,” Binns says.
She suggests that small rooms contain decorations that have a matte finish, rather than lots of reflective surfaces, to help absorb excess energy. The flowing shapes of ribbons and fabrics also help create a soft, gentle atmosphere.
•Don't overdo the Christmas tree. You may love the sparkling lights and pretty ornaments on Christmas trees, so bigger is better, right? Wrong.
“Evergreen trees naturally have a spiky, 'yang' shape that can disrupt the even flow of energy in a room” Binns says. “Just as you wouldn't want to overpower a room with a piece of furniture far out of proportion to the room's size, too large a tree is not conducive to a relaxing, harmonious feeling.”
Binns says that the yang energy of a Christmas tree can be tempered by using cream and other muted colors among the brighter ornaments and by putting bows or fabric garlands on the branches to help soften the tree's harsh edges. Also, it's important to place the tree away from seating areas to ensure the comfort of friends and family.
•Make holiday meals memorable. Excitement is added to holiday mealtimes when the table is set with hard, shiny items such as silver serving pieces, sparkling crystal and brightly-colored holiday china. Red napkins will also create a festive mood, while green napkins and cream-colored linens will tone down the table.
Speaking of tables, round or oval are the best shapes for feng shui-friendly dining. The absence of sharp corners and hard edges helps energy flow freely and gently through the room. If you do have a rectangular dining table, make sure your guests are not seated too close to the corners, which can cause a feeling of unease during the meal.
In addition to the setting, the foods you choose are important to the overall experience. Binns, a trained nutritionist and holistic health practitioner, says, “It has been found that too much sugar or rich foods create a sense of fatigue and overwork the body's digestive system. Excess alcohol overstimulates the liver. As with most things, moderation is key, and serving plenty of fresh vegetables will help balance richer dishes.”
Binns adds some general advice: “If people feel cooped-up or claustrophobic, they will be more likely to argue. So remove any unnecessary furniture, open the windows briefly to refresh the atmosphere, and use water features, like small fountains or floating candles, to create a calming influence.”
Candles emit natural energy and supplement the relaxing effects of dimmed lights. Fluorescent lighting, especially when added to the already stimulating effects of holiday decorations, creates an energy drain and should be reduced. Finally, add some relaxing music to your environment and turn off the TV, shutting it into a closed entertainment center if possible.
“Feng shui is an ancient practice that really works to enhance a whole array of areas in our lives,” Binns says. “By surrounding yourself with things and people you truly love and following some basic tenets, you can create balance, harmony and relaxation, which will carry you through the holidays and into the new year.”
Give the Gift of Decorative Time
Out of the millions of homes in the United States, there is one item that continuously makes an appearance in some form or another. Every household displays at least three to five clocks within a home. Since clocks serve the very important function of alerting the current time, it is a plus when they magically transform the décor of any room. This is why clocks make perfect gifts for any occasion, including birthdays, Christmas, graduations, and commemorative moments, such as weddings and anniversaries.
Since the start of ancient civilizations, humans have come up with ways to tell time. Over the past 4,500 years, the methods and styles of time telling have become quite advanced to the point that with a click of a button, an assortment of never-ending clock ideas and features located across the World Wide Web is ready for the choosing. While improving the accuracy of timekeeping devices has been an important goal, the majority of clock styles on the market are created to mainly elevate the décor within a home.
Today, we no longer depend on primitive sundials and water-operated fountain clocks. We thank the invention of coiled springs in the 1400s, which allowed the creation of smaller clocks. Without the genius of Christiaan Huygens in 1656, the pendulum clock (with weights and a swinging pendulum) would cease to exist.
Decorative Clocks
Since clocks are responsible for a rather important everyday task, and have become quite the popular decorating elements – they make exceptional gifts that easily turn into memorable keepsakes. This includes wall selections, tabletop pieces, elaborate wrought iron creations, and even options that withstand Mother Nature, as seen with indoor-outdoor clocks.
The flower lover may enjoy the Boutique Roses Wall Clock, which comes with a classic round shape, antique finish, and Roman numeral face. The antique bouquet of roses accent can uplift a kitchen or add charm to a sewing room. With the Carl Jorgen Wall Clock, a more futuristic design emerges, which is great for a teenage décor or bar room. Western-themed décor would benefit from the Cowboy Wall Clock or Boots Wall Clock from Home Furnishing Boutique. When looking to give the gift of novelty, the Gear Wall Clock offers a different appeal to a hallway or foyer.
Specialty Clocks
When it comes to celebrating a special occasion, these particular moments call for a specialty clock that serves as a constant reminder for the achievement of a graduating college senior or the admiration you hold for your parent's 25 solid years of marriage. The anniversary clocks offered at Home Furnishing Boutique provide the perfect gestures to honor ever-lasting love. With the Dominion Solid Brass Gold Plated Anniversary Clock, the cozy round shape shines with solid brass and gold plating. Customization is possible on the interior or exterior of the clock lid.
With the Executive Walnut Finish Plaque Anniversary Clock, the attractive solid hardwood with a classic walnut finish easily adds a memorable touch to a desk, shelf, or mantle. With this customizable clock, receivers of this gift readily enjoy the additional medallion and brass nameplate that accompanies the display. However, the whimsical Jubilee Brass with Glass Dome Anniversary Clock makes the perfect accompaniment for a fireplace with its appealing brass finish and metal casing. Additional features sealed within the glass dome include the brass pillars, and a pendulum that delicately sways with Swarovsky crystal and a two-tone diamond cut dial ring – a complete eye catcher.
Want to pair a keepsake clock with a photo of the grandkids? Consider the Desk Portrait Solid Brass Desk Clock, which allows Grandma and Grandpa to greet their grandchildren when telling the time. Other clocks that make great anniversary gifts, includes the Lord Baltimore Solid Brass Pedestal Clock and the lantern-style looking Wentworth Brass Finish Carriage Style Desk Clock.
USA Wooden Clocks
Home Furnishing Boutique also supplies a collection of fine, handmade wooden clocks fashioned in the U.S.A with mantle and wall styles to consider. Have you ever walked into the home of a relative and noticed that their fireplace seemed a bit bare? In order to add to their décor, consider an attractive wooden mantle clock of solid cherry, white maple, or colored oak.
With the Crystal Seville Ball Pendulum Mantle Clock, the solid cherry wood cabinet and warm cherry finish showcases a mesmerizing Swarovsky crystal ball pendulum surrounded by twisted brass pillars and a diamond-cut rose pattern found on the dial. The Seville Solid Cherry Glass Window Mantle Clock offers a round, open dial of brass and silver and cathedral windows – joined by Roman numerals. You also have the choice of clocks that not only display the time, but also emit single and dual chimes.
As for wooden wall clocks, the fascinating display that a pendulum clock delivers can create a completely different look to a room. A classic style wall clock can make an attractive addition to the newly remodeled bathroom at your best friend's house. Perhaps Grandma would enjoy the Carlisle Oak American Classic Replica Schoolhouse Wall Clock with an oak cabinet and finish for the kitchen. Overall, wooden wall clocks have the power to add character and charm to any room in a house with an array of dark antique finishes and traditional styles.
Home Insulation – Should You ‘do It Yourself’ Or Use A Professional Contractor?
Insulating your home well can save you a small fortune on your energy bills, by cutting the amount of heat you lose through your walls, doors and roof. But should you try to do this home improvement by yourself, or hire someone to do it? This article weighs up the pros and cons of using a professional contractor versus doing it yourself.
The Energy Saving Trust in the UK estimates that the average home can save several hundred pounds off its annual heating bills, and prevent the emission of over two tonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere annually, by installing insulation throughout. Insulation is the single biggest measure you can take to cut the amount of energy you use in the home. Plus this will also make the average home more comfortable by making it warmer in winter, and cooler in summer. It’s no wonder that hundreds of thousands of people a year in the UK are getting their homes insulated.
When thinking about insulating your home you are immediately faced with the choice of employing a professional contractor to do it, or attempting a bit of DIY. At first the DIY option can appear tempting. For example, some types of insulation, such as loft insulation, are not normally technically difficult to fit. The materials are readily available in most DIY stores. Plus many people automatically think that DIY is going to be cheaper than employing a professional contractor, because with a contractor you are paying for their labour.
However, in many cases they will be wrong because using a professional contractor is either cheaper or roughly the same cost as DIY. This is because installing insulation in the UK is now heavily subsidised by gas and electricity suppliers, in order that they can meet their carbon emission targets set by the government. These subsidies are funded by the power companies regardless of household income, and currently amount to between 50 and 70% of the cost of having the insulation installed. This usually means that using a contractor becomes price competitive, or in many cases even cheaper, than DIY.
Plus if you receive certain benefits from the government in the UK, you can get your insulation installed by a professional contractor completely free. This is because the government tops up the grants from the energy companies with its own subsidies to cover the entire cost of the work.
As well as financial considerations, there are other reasons why employing a professional contractor can be attractive. Firstly, some types of insulation do require special technical expertise. For example, to install cavity wall insulation – filling the space between your outer walls with insulation material - requires special machinery, as well as training. You should always use a reputable contractor for this. Although not technically difficult, installing loft insulation is often still a challenging DIY job. The working conditions in a loft are often cramped and unpleasant. Employing someone else to go up there is in many cases a much more attractive option!
As well as the technical challenges, DIY can also have a number of safety issues. For example, the mineral wool that is commonly used to insulate lofts can be hazardous. It is extremely important to handle it with care, as it can severely irritate the throat and skin. You need to wear protective clothing, including face mask, safety goggles and gloves. You also need to make sure that you do not expose the living areas of the house to the material, either when you unpack it, or dispose of any waste material.
If you use a reputable contractor, you can be sure that these issues will be taken care of, with much less hassle for you. You also know that the job will be done to a good standard, because of their training and experience. In fact, cavity wall insulation carried out by professionals in the UK comes with a 25 year guarantee if they are registered with the Cavity Wall Guarantee Agency, which most reputable firms are.
Given all of these advantages, we recommend that most people use a professional contractor to get their home insulated. It’s generally competitive on cost or cheaper than DIY, safer, less hassle, and will be done to a high standard if you choose the right contractor. There are many reputable firms who can be accessed through the Internet They will offer you a free no-obligation survey, after which you get a quotation. They also give you access to the attractive grants and subsidies mentioned above. If you like what they tell you, then you can simply go ahead and get a date booked for the work, and look forward to a warmer home and lower heating bills.
Cavity Wall Insulation – How It Works And How You Can Get It Installed For Less
One of the best ways to save on your heating bills and make your home warmer in winter is to install ‘cavity wall insulation’. Plus if you choose the right installer you can get the job done professionally for a very low price, with a 25 year guarantee. In fact some people can get it done completely free. The following article explains all about cavity wall insulation and how to get it installed for less.
In most UK houses built after the 1920s, the external walls are made of 2 layers with a small air gap or cavity in between them. If your home has unfilled cavity walls, a considerable slice of your energy bills will be spent heating the air outside. In fact it is estimated that around 35% of the heat from your home is lost through the walls.
Filling the gap between the 2 walls of a house with an insulating material massively decreases the amount of heat (and money) that is escaping through your walls. This could save you between £130 and £160 a year on your fuel bills for an average house, according to the UK’s Energy Saving Trust, and pay back the cost of installation in under 2 years. It will also prevent around 1 tonne of CO2 emissions each year, so makes a significant contribution to fighting Climate Change. Plus having your cavity walls insulated will make your home more comfortable by evening out the temperature in your home, help reduce condensation, and also keep your home cooler in hot summer weather.
This is a job that is definitely best done by a professional, as it can be quite technically demanding and requires specialist equipment. However, despite paying a contractor, it can be done for little money. This is because the large UK gas and electricity companies heavily subsidise the cost of insulation through certain contractors, in order to reach their carbon reduction targets set by the government. Typically they pick up 30 to 70% of the bill, no matter what your income. The contractor will also take care of all the paperwork, so that you automatically get these subsidies. In addition, if you receive certain state benefits, the government will pick up the rest of the cost so you can get your home installed completely free. When you get a quote from a contractor, they will be able to tell you whether you qualify for these grants.
How is cavity wall insulation installed? The cavity wall is injected with insulating material by drilling small holes in the external wall through the mortar joints. The holes are generally around 2cm wide and are made good after the injection by the installer. The material injected is normally ‘mineral wool’ (fibres made from rock or glass), polystyrene beads or white foam. All materials have a similar insulation performance. The insulation normally takes about 2 hours to install, but the time does depend on the size of the house and other factors such as access.
How do you know if your house has cavity walls? Most houses built after the 1920’s have been built with cavity walls. An easy way to check is to look at the brickwork in your outside walls. If all the bricks are laid the same way, with just their sides showing (rather than their ends), then you have cavity walls. But you don’t need to make sure of this yourself. All good insulation contractors will offer you a free no-obligation insulation survey, when they can check for your and let you know what is possible.
All reputable cavity wall insulating contractors in the UK are members of the Cavity Wall Insulation Agency (CIGA) guarantee scheme. This scheme gives you a 25 year guarantee on your cavity wall insulation, so that you can be completely confident in the quality of the work. Plus you will be able to pass this guarantee on to any future purchaser of your house, which will help contribute to your house’s value.
If you are interested in installing cavity wall insulation, you should contact a reputable contractor to request a free no-obligation survey. You can do this through the site mentioned at the bottom of this article (go to the page about insulation), or else several contractors advertise on the Internet (if you type in ‘cavity wall insulation’ into Google)
June 18, 2008
How To Insulate Your Loft Without Losing Your Loft Storage Space
Many people want to improve the insulation in their loft but can’t afford to lose their boarded loft floor – often an important storage area.
There are ways to improve the insulation in your loft and keep your storage space and this article discusses some of the options.
One of the most commonly faced difficulties is how to add insulating material to a loft space when the floor has already been boarded and the loft is used for storage.
When you are standing in the loft, the depth of the void formed between the plasterboard of the ceiling below and the top of the ceiling joists is usually about 100mm (4”). Given that current building regulations in the UK require 270mm of insulating glass wool, if a home owner wishes to retain a boarded loft and does not want to use a “spray-on” insulation product up between the roof rafters then there is a choice to be made about which direction to take. The main choices are between:
1. Building the joists up with additional “packing joists” to create a 270mm void which can then be filled with insulating material and then re-boarded over.
2. Using a solid insulating board cut to fit in the void that exists between the joists without raising the level of the loft floor.
3. Insulating between the roof rafters with either insulating board, spray on insulation products or insulation blanket products.
This article focuses on the first two potential methods.
Pros and cons of the first two potential methods:
Building the floor level up: Pros
1. If you run the additional “packing joists” across the existing joists at 90 degrees, you are able to run wool insulation over the top of the original ceiling joists) which reduces potential “thermal bridging”.
2. The materials are, in total, probably less expensive that using insulating board
3. You retain most of your loft storage area.
Building the floor level up: Cons
1. It’s a big DIY challenge
2. The wood required for the “packing joists” may be heavy and difficult to manoeuvre into position
3. You lose some height in the loft because of the floor being raised
4. Insulating with insulation board between the existing joists: Pros
5. Your floor stays the same height and therefore no loft height is lost.
6. You retain your loft storage space
7. There are no heavy timbers to work with
Insulating with insulation board between the existing joists: Cons
1. Its time consuming and fiddly to cut insulation board to fit between existing joists (which are invariably, even within one loft, are different widths apart). The cutting to size of the thermal boards usually needs to be done before they are taken into the loft space as access is usually restricted but it is also important that any dust resulting from the cutting does not contaminate the property’s living space
2. Insulation board can be costly (up to £50 -£60 a sheet depending on the gauge) and care is needed to cut them safely as the resulting dust acts as an irritant
3. Because you are insulating between the ceiling joists you are (by definition) not insulating over the ceiling joists. This means that where the joists run, your insulation is limited to the thermal properties of the joist timber only and your insulation will be “bridged” by the timber i.e. cold will be able to be transferred through the timber joists.
4. Where a home has been built with traditional 4” x 2” timber ceiling joists you are unlikely to get much more than 90mm of insulation board in between the joists (this will vary from property to property). It might be that if there is any old fashioned electrical conduit that needs to be worked around, you get even less than 90mm in.
Issues to worry about include thermal “bridging” when building up the joists to get the required height or when filling between the joists and re-boarding straight over the original joists.
From a pure insulation, building regulations and “required effort” point of view the best solution is getting a professional contractor in to carry out the required work.
In conclusion:
If retaining storage space in your loft is important then you can improve your level of insulation but you may have to compromise on the level of insulation you ultimately have and you have to be realistic about the difficulty and complexity of the DIY task involved.
Disclaimer:
There are a number of dangers associated with carrying out work in your loft and great care must be exercised. Follow all safety instructions available from the suppliers of the materials you decide to use and if you have any doubts about your capability to carry out insulation work in your loft safely please consult a qualified builder or insulation contractor.
Which Material Should I Use To Insulate My Loft?
Insulating your loft is one of the best ways that you can save on energy and heating bills, and reduce your personal contribution to Climate Change. However, there are a bewildering range of materials that you can choose from. The following article tells you what you should think about when choosing between different materials, and how some of the most popular materials stack up against each other.
In the UK hundreds of thousands of people are insulating their homes each year to cut their energy use. One of the most important parts of the house to insulate is the loft, where the average home can lose up to 25% of its heat. If you insulate your loft well, you can save over a tonne of CO2 each year, and around £110 a year off your heating bill, according to the energy saving trust. With such savings, insulating your loft can pay back the investment required in under 2 years.
There are many different materials to choose from when thinking about insulating your loft. The most popular type of material is mineral wool, which as the name suggests is derived from naturally occurring minerals. Popular brands include ‘Rockwool’. A similar option is glass wool, which is made from recycled glass and sand that are heated and spun into fibres. Popular brands include ‘Knauf’ and ‘Space Blanket’.
You can also use organically derived materials to insulate your loft. An increasingly popular choice is sheep’s wool, which comes in slabs made of fleece offcuts which are treated to make them fire resistant and insect-proof. ‘Thermafleece’ is an established brand. Other options include board from compressed wood waste, material made from recycled and scrap cotton, flax (brands include ‘Isovlas’), rolls or slabs of hemp (brands include ‘Thermo hemp’), and finally cellulose / paper (brands include ‘Excel Warmcel’ and ‘Homatherm’).
With so many options, how should you choose? There are a number of different things you may want to take into consideration:
1. Insulation performance: this is measured by the material’s ‘U value’, which is a measurement of how fast the material conducts heat (or cold)
2. Cost: in £s per square metre and
3. Qualification for government subsidies: in the UK, most people can get large government grants that cover much of the cost of insulating their home, but only when using certain materials
4. Renewable source material: is it made from material that will grow back?
5. Embodied energy: how much energy has been used to produce and transport the material?
6. Ease of disposal: is it biodegradable or recyclable?
7. Other considerations, such as its ability to deal with moisture, and also how easy and safe it is to install
All the materials listed above have similar insulation performance, with materials like paper and wood performing slightly better than mineral wool. Sheep’s wool is supposed to be particularly effective at keeping buildings cool in summer, because it releases moisture to keep cool. This can reduce peak temperatures by up to 7 degrees centigrade when compared to other materials.
The prices of these materials are also very similar, with the exception of wood, which can be double the price of the others. Therefore in terms of straight performance and cost, there is not much to distinguish the different materials.
However, in the UK, mineral or glass wool is the only material offered under the various different government grant and discount schemes. Under these schemes you can get your loft insulated by a professional contractor at a heavily discounted price, which often actually makes it cheaper than DIY. Provided your building is suitable, everyone can qualify for these discount schemes in the UK, and so for most people their choice of material is bound up with accessing these grants and using a professional contractor.
For those determined to go the DIY route, there are some other considerations that can help you decide on one material versus another. For example you may be concerned about what happens to the material at the end of its life. Glass wool is the hardest to dispose of, being neither recyclable or biodegradable. Mineral wool is recyclable but not biodegradable. All the organic materials mentioned above are the easiest to get rid of, being both recyclable and biodegradable.
Another consideration is the amount of energy used in the material’s manufacture. Glass wool is again the worst performer here, compared to all the other materials. You might also be concerned whether the material is made from renewable resources: all the organically derived materials are, but mineral wool and glass wool are not.
Finally you may also want to think about other considerations, such as ease of installation, what happens if it is burnt, and ability to deal with moisture. For example, glass wool causes irritation when it comes into contact with skin (as does mineral wool), releases toxic smoke if burned, and does not perform well when wet. By contrast sheep’s wool insulation can be installed without gloves or protective clothing, is not irritating to the skin, and will naturally help prevent condensation.
To sum up, the option that most people will find attractive is to install mineral or glass wool using a professional contractor, so that they are able to access government grants, and make sure the job is done properly. However, those going the DIY route should consider the benefits of one of the organically derived options, such as sheep’s wool.
Five Things to Consider When Designing Your Dream Kitchen
Are you planning on purchasing new kitchen cabinets? Whether for a newly constructed home or for a remodeling project, consider one important factor, your kitchen is the heart of your home! It is not just a place to dine; it is also the main gathering place for family and friends and a place for entertaining. This is particularly true with today’s popular open floor plans and great room designs. Because your kitchen plays such an important part of your home there are a few things to consider in your planning process.
1) Kind in mind future buyers
Even if you are currently building your dream home, it is possible that someday you will have a need to sell your home. Or, if you are remodeling your existing home to make it more comfortable for you and your family, you may still find the need to sell it someday. Because of this, even if you aren’t ready to sell your home today you should always ponder what potential buyers would think of your kitchen cabinet selection and layout because opinions of your kitchen can drastically either increase or decrease your selling price. A practical kitchen layout is typically everyone’s goal, but cabinet styles and finishes are more of a personal choice. Are you attracted to traditional styles or more modern styles? Do you like kitchen cabinets with distinct wood grain or ones with nearly no grain? Whichever you personally prefer always keep future buyers in mind as it can play an important part in your bottom line.
2) The Work Triangle
All homeowners seek a functional workspace in the kitchen. In planning your kitchen layout it is important to consider the distance between your sink, stove and refrigerator in relationship to each other. Connecting these three workstations from their center points should create an invisible “work triangle.” According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association the sum of the three distances should be no more than 26 feet, with no single side of the triangle being less than four feet or more than nine feet. There are a couple things to consider with planning a well-designed work triangle; watch out for any triangle legs that may intersect an obstacle like an island, and make sure that no major traffic patterns cross through the work triangle. Proper planning of your “work triangle,” taking all obstacles and limitations into review, will help create a functional workspace that will be both practical for you and your future buyers.
3) Kitchen cabinet storage is key
When designing your dream kitchen it is key to consider your storage space, along with ample countertop space. Kitchen cabinet layout services are available to help you maximize your space and create the best flow of cabinetry. The first place to look for extra storage space is your corners. In small, tight kitchens a blind corner cabinet can be used to get the most use out of the corner. However, to get the most efficient use of the corner space a lazy susan corner cabinet or easy reach cabinet should be used. These cabinet options maximize the corner space while allowing easy entry to it contents. Or try adding rollout trays in your base kitchen cabinets to help access your pots and pans, or in your pantries in order to reach cans and dry goods more easily. Another suggestion would be to include a 24” deep bridge cabinet in your kitchen cabinet layout above your refrigerator. Most people keep unused or seasonal items above the refrigerator for the simple fact that they can’t reach the cabinet. Therefore, consider a 24” deep refrigerator cabinet for easier access.
4) Use kitchen cabinets to create islands or peninsulas
Kitchen cabinets can be configured to create center islands or peninsulas. These cabinet configurations are very attractive to homeowners with an open floor plan. Using kitchen cabinets this way creates an area for a breakfast nook with the ability to pull up stools. Kitchen cabinets used in this manner instantly increases seating space, which is ideal since kitchens are typically gathering places. Islands and peninsulas also create more storage space.
5) Bells and Whistles
Just like purchasing a new vehicle, there are upgrade options to consider when purchasing your new kitchen cabinets. For example, what type of drawers do you want in your base cabinets? Will the standard particleboard drawer secured with glue and staples be sufficient? Or would you prefer an all-wood drawer constructed with dove-tailed joints? Or better yet, would you want the all-wood, dove-tailed drawer with full-extension drawer glides that include a silent close feature? Other construction upgrades can include all plywood construction, and custom depth cabinets. Besides construction upgrades there are accessory cabinets that provide you with some “bell and whistle” qualities that can give your kitchen a custom and personalized look. Give consideration to glass door cabinets for displaying your keepsakes or china dinnerware, an appliance hutch for hiding small appliances on your countertop, roll out trays for base cabinets, integrated waste baskets, corner shelves, and wine racks. When selecting your bells and whistles keep in mind both your budget and overall functionality and flow of your kitchen for optimal results.
Remember, your kitchen is the heart of your home! Success in constructing a timeless, comfortable space is creating a balance between an efficient layout and design with your personal tastes, while keeping with the end goal of adding value to your home.
La Cala Hot Tubs - Today
Today in Spain and in the rest of the world there is a very wide and amazing choice when it comes to choosing a Hot Tub Jacuzzi in Spain.
In the same way that people and families vary in size so of course does the sizes and shapes of Hot Tubs just as much.
They also vary when it comes to the question of how many people they can accommodate.
For example there are those Hot Tubs that are just small enough for two to three people. Some people, usually a couple, often think a small tub is a better buy but this is always a mistake unless space is a limiting factor. If space is a limiting factor then clearly a small tub is the order of the day. The reason for this is that well designed 4/5 seater Hot Tubs have different seat designs both in terms of depth so that one seat will be much deeper for more buoyancy and another not so deep. Also four / five seater will have more and varied massage positions and choices which a smaller Hot Tub will not have. Then there are those that are much larger seating eight people and others that can seat four to five people and those that can seat five to six. Often these can be suitable for ones family together with friends or indeed perfectly suitable for just a couple.
A typical two seater would be say 81" long and 55" wide with a depth of 30" or in metric terms some 2.06M x 1.4M with a depth of 0.75M. This Hot Tub would hold in the region of some 190 gallons of Water (US) or say 720 Litres. This type of Hot tub would probably have something in the range of 12 to 18 Jets with a two speed 2HP motor with a 2HP air blower.
Always look for the Air Blower and if its not there then ask why,
Moving up to say an eight sided / Octagonal Shape a typical size would be 80" by 80" with a depth of 34". This would have the same pump configuration as the two seater referred to above but would be able to accommodate six people and have a much larger water capacity of some 400 US Gallons or 1,500 Litres.
One of the most popular types is a five seater with one lounger usually say a size of 82" by 80" with a depth of 32" and some times you can get a deeper version with a depth of 40" or again in Metric it would be some 2.08M x 2.01M with a depth of 0.79M and for the deeper version the depth would be just over one Metre. The standard size would hold some 400 Gallons US (1,500 Litres) and the Deeper Tub Some 425 Gallons US (1,600 Litres).
You can also get very clever designer shaped spa's with a stretched lounge seat that will take five people and with a size of 79" by 73" it's slightly smaller than the one immediately above and you can see that in the water capacity is smaller at 300 US gallons or some 1,135 Litres.
Obviously as one moves up the scale in the terms of cost you tend to get more and more extras like a waterfall and neck / collar jets. This kind of size of Tub would have a 2 speed 3.5 HP electric motor for the European market and 5 hp in the United States and a 2 HP air blower.
In a brief article one can only highlight a few ideas or choices so I have restricted this to just a few Hot Tubs as obviously the choice is pretty wide. There are of course more exotic Hot Tubs with much more Jets say 98 and 130 Jets together with underwater perimeter lighting systems. Now one of the key questions has to be how one chooses the right Hot Tub and not end buying a pig in a poke or the Dog Fish Tub or indeed a Wing Wang Wah Tub. Well the answer is to buy from a well established western manufacturer who has been making Hot Tubs for say 20 years and whose product has stood the test of time. Buy a product with recognized controls like Balboa from California... Avoid Hot Tubs that are cheaply copied and made in the East. They are of course very highly skilled at making copies but remember the recent Toy incident and of course their products are made in somewhat difficult labour conditions in what many people consider an oppressive regime that persecutes its own people and does not allow freedom of speech. I often am asked to repair older Hot Tubs and the western made products stand up very well where as the eastern made products are suffering after a very short time in the field. We find it quite easy to source spare parts for American made products.
As I have explained above the choice is very wide.
Some Hot Tubs offer multi-level seating for people of different body types. Some feature comfortable built-in lounge seats. It is very important to choose the Hot Tub that matches with what suits your own idea of perfect relaxation and is made to a proper high western standard in order that it will provide you with many years of reliable service... It is best to avoid cheap imports from the east no matter how well they are packaged or disguised. Our experience in the field is that certain key components FAIL with in quite a short time. Usually just outside the warranty!!!
