There are many types of microwave ovens available for you in the market. Many brands are competing to get your attention and buy their kind of microwave. They offer different features and special functions that offer you a lot of things such as convenience, efficiency and affordability. But how would you be able to know what is the best? How would you be able to know how to find that microwave oven that is right for you?
Every consumer can have a difficult time in trying to look for the best microwave oven in the market. One way fore them to have an idea of how a certain brand performs is by checking out a microwave oven review. Such reviews can help consumers know about how well a certain brand of microwave oven functions.
There are many types of product reviews that are available in a variety of media forms that consumers can readily check out. Product reviews can be available through some magazines that offer useful reviews to help consumers know about the pros and cons of a certain product. There are also online product reviews which consumers can search out over the Internet and offer varying opinions on different types of products, including a wide range of microwave ovens.
Looking for a microwave oven review over the Internet would be easier and convenient. There are many websites that now offer microwave oven reviews that you can try to check out. there are some microwave oven reviews that are mostly done by professional critics who test different brands of microwave ovens and see how they compare with each other in terms of function, performance and other factors.
This type of review can help give you a comparative analysis of different brands of microwave ovens that you might think of buying. Checking them out on such reviews can help you make more well-informed decisions on your purchases.
There is also another kind of microwave oven review that can also be very helpful for you. this kind of review is done by those who have bought a certain microwave brand and write about their own experiences of using it in their own home.
These people then write about it on the reviews to inform others on how good or how bad a certain microwave oven functions at the home. Such a review can help provide you with a more realistic view of how a certain brand of microwave oven will do in a more familiar environment which is the home.
And being done by fellow consumers, you can be sure that you are given a product review that will judge a certain product by how it work well at home and not by product testers that consider a review as a job. But ultimately, it is all up to you on how you take what you know from each microwave oven review that you come upon. It can help you be wiser and more satisfied with the type of microwave oven that you buy in the future.
May 31, 2009
How Microwave Oven Reviews Help Consumers
Don't Let Your Equity Decrease! Do Your Repairs
It is very important that problems within your home are taken care of as they arise, instead of allowing them to fester. Significant or even minor repairs that need to be done to your home need to be taken care of as they stand to compound issues of aesthetics and function, and this in turn will effect the equity of your home. Although home improvement projects will add value to your home through the addition of new features or through remodeling, home repair is just as essential in ensuring the continued value of your home.
Allowing problems to remain increases the risk of damage to your house. Leaky faucets may end up causing damage to your floor's underlay and to your basement ceilings, as well as costing you money in terms of water bills. Holes in the wall are unsightly, and are also prone to growing as well as allowing things that might rot to get into the walls of your home. Gunk that builds up on your bathroom tiles and walls is a great place for harmful molds and other singel celled organisms to breed and spread. In other words, even small problems will detract from the value and the enjoyment of your home, and they have the potential to grow into big disasters. Fixing the problem when it arises could mean that you save hundreds of dollars in potential damages to your property.
For all three of these common problems, the repair solutions are simple. Leaky faucets require whoever is doing the repairs to find the water shutoff valve before installing the faucet. After you locate this, then the rest of the project is smooth sailing.
As far as bathroom buildup, the key ingredient required is a little bit of elbow grease. If you find that the buildup still will not come up no matter how hard you scrub, you might have to think about replacing some parts of the tile. Sometimes, the buildup is so bad that it is actually necessary to install a whole new unit. Fortunately, this is made easier by the widespread availability of shower kits.
Shower kits are pretty inexpensive, but they add a lot of value to your home right away. These kits require a few tools to install, such as sealant, nails, cement, screwdrivers, cutters, primers, and piping. Gather all of the tools and the materials that were included with the shower kit together within your workspace, in a spot that is as easy to reach as possible from where you are working. Make sure that te water is turned off before commencing work!
Remember that not everyone has an innate ability to do home repair. Do not be afraid to ask a friend or family member for help, or consult one of the many do it yourself books available.
4 Tips for Home Security When Selling
When you are selling your home, the idea that your house could be burgled or vandalized might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, there are people out there who pose as buyers in order to gain access to your home and figure out its weak spots for a visit later that night or even several weeks from the time they first look it over. By utilizing some of the following strategies, you can minimize the risk of a home intrusion and theft.
Use a Realtor®
By using a Realtor®, you will ensure that your prospective buyers will first go through someone who will inquire as to their identity and their motives for wanting your home. Since Realtors® can be targets of theft and violence while showing homes themselves, they tend to be cautious when showing homes to anyone, keeping copies of drivers licenses and taking a second agent with them for added safety. This also gives your home more security when it is being shown, as the people touring the property know that there are people watching out for the house and the people representing it.
Do not let strangers into your home on a moment's notice
If someone is serious about purchasing, they will take down the contact information of the Realtor® and leave you in peace. People who try to coerce you into letting them into your home may be really interested in buying, but they might be more interested in stealing or worse. Tell them to contact your agent. Caution your children against letting anyone in who claims that they are there "to see the house".
Less is more in photographs
Before taking pictures or having pictures taken, look critically at each room and remove items that could be an incentive to steal. Examples include your new flatscreen TV and state-of-the-art computer system. Avoid pictures of any family heirlooms and any items you know to be valuable. This not only helps make your home less of a target for thieves; it also helps you avoid a potential buyer saying, "But I loved the chandelier in the picture online!"
Keep your valuables locked up or with you
Valuables - wallets, passports, money, money containers, jewelry, etc. should be in a safe or at least in a place where it takes more than a moment's search to find them. Avoid popular hiding places like the toilet tank or a rubber cabbage. A small safe is a good investment, not only for selling your home, but also for general valuable security. Tell children to put their piggy banks away and any treasured possessions. Most buyers have only the best of intentions, but there are always accidents and people who don't control their children to effect the destruction of a valued object.
Home security is often just common sense. The harder it is to get something without being caught, the less likely people are going to try for it. With sensible supervision of the home, securing of valuables and the avoidance of anything that would catch the eye of a thief, you can make your home and belongings much more secure during home showings.
Landscaping Design Using Evergreens
Due to their all-year appeal, vigorousness and long life, evergreens are worth their small additional cost over deciduous trees which lose their foliage during winter.
Evergreens have a wide range from broad-leaved shrubs, such as laurel and rhododendrons to cone-bearing pines and distinguished spruces.
Markedly effective as windscreens, the giant spruces and firs are commonly used not only for their attractiveness, but also for their shape. Furthermore, they do well without much sunlight, which causes them to be excellent choices for fundamental planting.
Here are some highly conventional evergreens to select from (in alphabetical order):
Cedar
The decorative Arbor Vitae, such as cedar, produces the flat evergreen branch frequently used in floral arrangements during the Christmas season. It thrives best in moist, protected areas. While it can be trimmed to any size or shape, untrimmed it will form a broad 35 to 50 feet tall pyramid.
Fir
Strong, resilient, and drought-resistant, the Douglas fir grows quickly and compactly. The best fir selection for wind breaks and privacy, its high pyramid makes a good lawn element. White fir has an attractive silvery color, while balsam fir, AKA the Christmas tree, is noted for its special fragrance and lustrous foliage.
Hemlock
The hemlock tree/shrub, with feathery foliage, is most effective when planted in a grove with others. The Canadian hemlock can be easily sheared for symmetrical effect.
Juniper
The tall species of juniper, for example the formal columnar juniper and the upright juniper, are quite useful in planting. As a spreading evergreen, the Pfitzer juniper is best used for banks, edgings and ground cover. Its green feathery foliage grows quickly, will tolerate crowding and at maturity stands 8 feet high, and up to 12 feet wide. Ground-covering junipers include creeping, prostrate, Sargent, and Waukegan.
Pine
The most generally known evergreen is the pine. Renowned for its long, soft, light silvery-green needles, the white pine can reach 80 feet when mature. In addition to the white pine, the red pine is great for backgrounds and wind breaks. A broad, compact tree, the ponderosa pine is used for protection and ornamental screens.
The Austrian pine (black pine), popular in the Midwest, has a rich, green color and spreading branches.
Spruce
Short and wide, with light blue-green needles, the white spruce reaches 70 feet and is good for general landscaping and privacy screens. Although it suffers in drought and heat, the Colorado blue spruce is a hardy tree. Red cedar, on the other hand, is a fine decortive evergreen for hedges and windbreaks because it withstands dry weather, plus the thick green foliage has a bronze color in winter.
Probably the most commonly planted wind breaks evergreen, the Norway spruce is hardy. A slow grower, it has short needles of dark green and is compact and pyramidal in shape. The Black Hills variety grows to 40 feet in time, and is hardy and drought-resistant.
Yew
With its thick, glossy needles and dense, upward-reaching branches, the yew is useful as both a shrub and tree. Although it grows well in sun and shade, it’s best used as a single feature against a wall of the garden rather than as foundation planting. The low-spreading bushy dwarf yew can be clipped, while other varieties such as the upright yew and Japanese yew are tapering or conical plants best used for hedges.
Protection
Since evergreens tend to be adversely affected by dry, hot summer weather, they should be watered every 10 to 14 days during this time of year. Be sure the water reaches at least 6 inches deep.
An excellent way to protect the evergreen from loss of water in dry weather is with a mulch of grass clippings or peat moss.
To help an evergreen thrive, pruning in the late spring is recommended, making sure that the inner branches will develop.
May 24, 2009
Water Alarms
Prevent a water leak from causing thousands of dollars in damage to your home by installing water alarms to your household appliances. Water alarms are point-of-use systems which detect leaks and shut off the water supply to the appliances on which they are installed. Unlike "whole-house" shut off systems, Water alarms are easily installed by homeowners and are extremely economical. The numerous advantages of water alarms ensure the protection of your home from water damage. A water alarm can easily and quickly be installed without hiring a professional and provides non-stop protection.
Flooding events often go undetected for hours causing extensive damage to your home and personal belongings. At the first sign of seepage, water alarms stop water at its source.
Washing Machines:
The #1 source of water damage in American homes is the washing machine. Water alarms are specifically designed to prevent your home from ever flooding due to a faulty washing machine, defective internal components, or ruptured hoses.
Water Heaters:
Water heaters are continuously under pressure, and this pressure causes leaks in these virtually maintenance-free appliances. After years of use, water heaters begin to corrode, and this corrosion is another major cause of leaks. You can easily install and operate a water alarms. Connect the motorized valve to the water line, Place water leak sensor on the floor at the base of the water heater, The valve remains open unless a water leak is detected, Water detected on the sensor closes the valve and sounds the alarm and the valve stays closed until you correct the problem Because you are alerted when your water alarms detect leaks, any chance of ruinous damage to your floors or personal property is virtually eliminated.
Refrigerators:
The moving of, bumping into, and constant vibrating of refrigerators often causes damage to the small water lines leading to icemakers and drainage areas. This damage doesn't always immediately turn into a leak, but it could when you least expect it. Water alarms protect your home 24 hours a day from the dreadful effects of water damage from your refrigerator, whether you are at home or not. An estimated $150 million dollars of water damage occurs annually in American homes. Water alarms prevent pricey devastation to your home and personal belongings due to appliances which are malfunctioning or possibly worn out. Installing water alarms on your washing machine, water heater, and refrigerator is a cost-efficient and simple way to protect your home against water damage.
Outdoor Yard Decoration
Your yard is an extension of the inside of your home. Your yard deserves your attention and focus too.
Garden Decor Art is a great way to put personality, beauty and creativity in your back or front yard. I have many unique items on my website to consider. Before you start, a few basic planning steps are important.
Before you start, you will want to choose a theme that you will want you back or front yard decoration to focus on.
The next area to focus on is which part of your yard you wish to specialize with your theme. You may want to choose your front door and patio or maybe a comfortable sitting area.
In order to make you decision easier, think about what is most important. Item of importance may be: visitors, houses on your street, driveway, front door, back yard or maybe you have a pool area to consider.
The next task to consider is the area that you want to decorate. Place a seat in the area that is your favorite location. What do you see? Consider the trees and shrubs in this space. What size are they? Do they provide shade? Will they shed their leaves in the fall? Take each one of these factors into consideration when planning.
The last aspect of this project will be to set a budget. How much are you willing to spend? This will determine what you can afford to spend on this venture.
Your outdoor garden décor can start at less than $50. I have beautiful wind spinners and eye catching ornaments to make any back or front yard a wonderland. Check out my selection at http://www.metalwindchimestore.com.
You now have the beginning of a very unique and attractive backyard that you will be proud of and you can tell everyone that you did it all by yourself!
Prices Of Sunroom Kits
An overview of do it yourself sunroom kits, what’s involved in choosing one and possible downsides to doing it yourself.
Once upon a time, if you wanted to build a sunroom onto your home, you would have to hire and pay a contractor to do it for you. But with the introduction of sunroom kits, that is no longer necessary. You can order a do it yourself sunroom kit from any number of sunroom manufacturing companies, who will then ship to you the elements that are necessary to put the room together. The idea behind sunroom kits is that you should be able to save money on getting your sunroom installed by putting it together yourself. Not only are you providing the labor, but you are also cutting out the ‘middle man’ in the process of building your sunroom. This allows you to save money on the materials as well. Plus, depending on the do it yourself sunroom kit that you choose, you can also save money on future energy and maintenance costs.
First, understand that the price of a do it yourself sunroom kit will vary depending on your home’s particular situation. For example, if you are choosing to build a small, aluminum sunroom on top of an existing deck or cement slab, it will be much less expensive than building a block foundation sunroom with more windows and wood framing. If you have an existing deck or slab, then it makes sense to choose that location for the sunroom because it is already properly graded and prepared. In that case, you can measure the deck or slab and get the proper measurements for ordering your kit. But if you don’t have a slab or deck already, then you will need to decide on the proper location for your sunroom. You will also need to grade and prepare the area before you can begin construction. This obviously changes the amount of work that you will be requiring of yourself when installing your do it yourself sunroom kit. Of course, you could always hire a contractor to put in the slab for a block foundation sunroom, and then build the rest of it yourself.
Choosing the Type of Do It Yourself Sunroom Kit
When you are ordering a sunroom kit, realize that it is usually designed for a sunroom that is not going to be connected to your HVAC system. If you want your sunroom to be heated or cooled by your existing system, then that is likely not a project you will want to take on with your do it yourself sunroom kit. Otherwise, you’ll be relying on fans and portable heaters or coolers to keep your sunroom comfortable. Depending on the climate where you live, this may be just fine for you.
Getting a Quote for Your Sunroom
Companies that provide do it yourself sunroom kits have a number of standard sizes and types that they are ready to provide for you. These are the least expensive options because they are able to mass produce them and package them at a savings to them, which they will then pass on to you. However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t find the right kit for you and the design that you have in mind. If you find that the standard kits you can find don’t fit the sunroom that you are looking to create, then you can certainly get a custom kit created, but you need to realize that it will cost more to do so. In order to get a quote for the sunroom kit you want to order, you will have to provide them with the measurements that you have selected for the design. This doesn’t just include the dimensions of the sunroom itself; it also includes knowing how many windows you will have and where they will be placed. You will then also have to choose the materials that you want the sunroom to be built from, and the types of windows that you want. Will they all be stationary or will they be moveable? What kind of glaze will they have on them? If this seems like it’s an overwhelming number of decisions to be made, don’t worry; you can get a great deal of help from the sunroom manufacturers themselves. Many of them have online design pages that will walk you through all of the choices you will need to make for your custom sunroom kit. The final kit, based on the design that you created, will be shipped to your home and will include customized installation plans as well.
Possible Problems With Do It Yourself Sunroom Kits
Probably the most common problem with a do it yourself sunroom kit is that the person who ordered it is simply not prepared for the type and amount of work that is involved. If you are not absolutely certain that you have the time and know-how to install the kit, you should think twice before attempting it. Also, remember that if you are doing the installation yourself, the work is not going to be covered by a guarantee of some kind. The materials will be, but the actual construction itself will not be. Plus, if you do make an error, any damages to your home may not be covered. In fact, it is a good idea to check with your homeowner’s insurance policy before deciding to install your own sunroom so that you know whether or not you are covered for accidents that damage your home or cause injury to yourself or others. Otherwise your ‘savings’ could quickly become extremely costly if you have an accident.
Products Of Champion Sunrooms
Champion sunroom provides you the strongest and most durable patio rooms. They prepare the vinyl sidings in such a way that it can go well with any color combination, thickness and design of the gutters, shutters, doors and windows. The double framed window panes are filled with argon gas and the doors have surface that is stainable for enhanced insulation. The major Champion products include the patio room or enclosure, windows, doors, vinyl siding, and awning.
Champion sunroom furniture items have its unique set of products that includes doors, windows, vinyl siding, and patio rooms and enclosures. The champion sunroom is the ideal place to relax and enjoy the sight of surrounding landscape. They allow you to bring outside environment inside and enjoy it within the comfort of inside coziness. It forms the perfect place for children to enjoy, and for family member to get together for cups of steaming coffee. It brings you close to nature as you watch and enjoy the surrounding landscape through the glass enclosed area. Depending on the landscape and your taste, the sunrooms can be designed in various forms including cathedral, straight, curved and conservatory sunroom. But to make the place be as comfortable as you want, you need to fill the room with the appropriate furniture items.
The all season vinyl patio by Champion has been in great demand. They provide year-round comfort, allowing you to enjoy the changing seasons within indoor coziness. Champion makes use of quality products that lasts for a longer period of time. The patio rooms are efficient thermally due to 6” heavy duty aluminum framework encased with vinyl. By combining the two, Champion provides you the strongest and most durable patio rooms. The windows are double paneled with Low-E standard filled with argon gas. This insulates the room well and reduces task of maintenance.
The vinyl rooms consist of thermally broken roof frames that are well insulated. They are provided with I-Beams and have R-30 insulating capability. You can select from a range of lightweight polystyrene frames measuring 4” – 6”. The powerful header bears the whole load of the room and fits itself well according to the pitch of the roof. The knee panel consists of insulation value of R-30. They can be easily cleaned and help to obstruct wear and tear. The posts of aluminum measure 6” and provide strength to the walls. The center post hides the wiring and reveals only the switches. The doors and windows will be provided with tracks that are recessed to avoid the entry of air for smooth movement. The doors have moisture lock technology with modern handles.
Vinyl Siding Champion Sunroom
The vinyl sidings make your room appear as if it is made of wood and not just plastic. The shadow line of about ¾” gives the true feel of a wood finish, making the exterior of the sunroom appear beautiful. It is of superior quality with premium locking system. It can withstand impact due to its .046” thickness. The vinyl sidings are so prepared that it can go well with any color combination, thickness and design of the gutters, shutters, doors and windows.
The edges of the sidings are concealed with the help of a J-channel that measures ¾” and is preformed. It obstructs the wind from entering through the edges. They are placed with proper 4” corner posts that have the same color as that of the sidings. The foundation of the siding is made from a steel starter that goes round the whole perimeter of the sunroom. The Undersill trim is placed beneath the window foundation to lend a complete look to the sidings. The vinyl sidings are available in various shades of white, blue mist, slate, sandstone, classic linen, cobblestone, clay, khaki, tan, almond, and wheat.
Champion Windows And Doors
The Champion windows are provided with lifetime guarantee scheme. They have double-frame filled with argon gas and are well insulated. This technology helps to keep your room cool during summers and warm in winters and obstructs the harmful rays of the sun. They have earned the seal of good housekeeping for enhanced quality. The sashes have double hung technology to help in easy cleaning. The wool piles help to insulate the room properly.
They are made up of cent percent vinyl construction, the frames of which are enhanced with foams. The windows are styles differently like double-hung, casement, picture windows, double casement, garden windows, hopper windows and awnings. The Champion doors are available in over 6,000 designs; you can select from a range of fiberglass or steel to make the door. The fiberglass have surface that is stainable and offers better insulation. It prevents dents and when compared to wood, it is more durable and has greater strength. The steel doors meet the required energy codes stated by the state and have polyurethane foam that makes the door completely insulated. You can hire a local sunroom contractor for fixing the pieces to make the sunroom of your dreams.
Another important Champion product is the awning. The retractable siesta sol awnings provide you with a shady place during hot summers. They obstruct the harmful rays of the sun from entering the sunroom. Special cassette shells protect these awnings. They are provided with double cabled aluminum arms and are coated with PVC. Champion sunroom provides for you an inexhaustible range of selection for sunroom windows, doors, patio rooms, vinyl siding, awnings and enclosures.
May 11, 2009
Brick and Stone Masonry: Still Stand Strong
The choices that you make when designing and building a new home or purchasing an existing home affect your value throughout the time of ownership. No time is the highest value more important than when selling. Each decision you make will affect value and play a role in what the house is ultimately worth in a re-sale. Make your choices carefully. Do your research. Talk to realtors about what is in demand in your area. A good example of a value choice is the use of brick and stone masonry for your exterior. In American architecture, nothing evokes feelings solidity and permanence like masonry.
Have you ever read through the classified home listings, or seen a realtor’s flyer and read the words, “four sides brick?” There is a reason that real estate professionals market a home this way. It is a signal of quality to a potential buyer. While stucco and siding are both attractive options for cladding the exterior of your home, brick and stone masonry will increase the value. Upon arrival at a perspective new home, a buyer will usually begin assessing it from the minute that they turn into the driveway.
Stucco
When applied properly hard coat stucco can be an effective exterior cladding while also providing flexible design. When purchasing an existing stucco home, a buyer should have two thoughts in mind.
1.) Is this house a hard coat stucco or EIFS? (a synthetic stucco system)
2.) Will an inspector need to be hired to examine the condition of the exterior and locate any moisture behind the walls?
Already there are roadblocks in the buyers mind about purchasing the home. Both questions would need to be answered. You need to know what type of stucco it is, and a specialized, professional inspector is always a good idea no matter the type. A professional stucco inspector can determine where there are problems and check for moisture behind the material, while suggesting the extent of damage and remedies in a thorough report.
Siding
Siding tends to have fewer stigmas than stucco. While it does not have the solidness of brick, when installed correctly, it does an excellent job of protecting the interior of the home from moisture. Houses clad with siding seem to have a certain charm and appeal to Americans as it is used from coast to coast. With a siding home, again, it is a good idea to have a thorough inspection to uncover any moisture that has found a path into the interior. A proper inspection will reveal if the siding was installed correctly. Make sure your inspector examines the following areas of a siding clad home where there may be problems.
1.) The seams at door and window openings
2.) Around vents, such as a dryer vent, and pipes that must pass through to the interior
3.) Any area where siding might meets the ground
4.) The connection of a siding clad chimney to the house structure
5.) Areas where landscaping touches the home
Also, it is a good idea to determine the type of siding... There are several types in use today: wood, cement fiber board and vinyl. Wood siding is beautiful, but will ultimately require maintenance due to exposure to the elements. You will eventually need to replace boards, nails and frequently paint to keep it in the best condition. Cement fiber board is an excellent choice. It is very durable, emulates the look of wood, but will stand the test of time. The advantage of vinyl siding is the ease of maintenance. When properly installed, vinyl siding will only require cleansing from season to season with a mild solution and water to keep it looking new.
Brick and Stone Masonry
Brick and stone masonry has stood the test of time in our culture. While wood sided homes have come and gone over the decades, we know that homes in the Northeastern United States built at our country’s inception are still standing today. Brick and stone products inspire a feeling of solidity and permanence. There are very few problems associated with brick or stone. They protect the interior of your home like a fortress, withstand the elements and bring great resale value as it passes confidence along from one owner to the next.
When you have a masonry home inspected, make sure note is taken of any cracks that have appeared in the mortar, which might be the result of settling or another stress on the wall. Check the system of weep holes which are used to drain moisture from behind the walls. Make sure these holes are not obstructed. Additionally, check ground level areas where weep holes could actually perform the reverse function and take moisture in during flooding rains.
Fortunately brick and stone masonry, for the most part, are maintenance free, durable, and a value addition to any home. Today there are many choices in masonry and a visit to a local brick and stone company will make selecting a color and style a breeze. Many have small mock ups of what a wall would look like in each product that they sell. One of the most fun ways to select your new brick or stone is to take a drive around neighborhoods you like and focus on brick colors and the shapes and variation in the stonework. This way you would better be able to envision what the exterior of your finished home might look like.
Whatever the material you choose for the exterior of your home, installation is the key component. Take the time to ensure all proper procedures are followed for the specific material. When buying an existing home, hire an inspector! No question you might have about the exterior cladding of a home is a bad one. You are protecting a very large investment.
Design Build Projects - Whose Minding the Store?
So you're ready to start your design build remodeling project. You have hired yourself a contractor and are raring to go right? Wrong!
Of course a new renovation project is an exciting time especially a design build project which allows for the most instantaneous freedom of expression. Anticipating the end and having a fresh new look is a temptation to hurry the process along. But a word of caution; walk don't run. A design build project can also be difficult to keep on track if you don't have a plan.
Unless you are someone with endless means, don't get ahead of yourself, the work you do up front could potentially save you thousands even tens of thousands of dollars in the end.
Working out a comprehensive budget that will get you both the final design you desire while keeping you out of financial trouble is sometimes a high-wire balancing act. But it can be done.
Ok so how do you achieve this important goal when you don't even know everything you want? Well first you must take some important steps that if not done, can have a negative impact on your actual budget.
Here's the Top 10:
1. You must realistically decide how much you can "invest" in this project. And it is truly an investment as you will benefit financially from the return on investment (roi).
2. Determine what type of funding will you use? Savings, personal note, home equity line of credit or loan? Choosing the right type of funding can also save you money. You should speak to your financial advisor.
3. How much of a contingency are you able to set aside for unforeseen conditions which result in changes. (It should be at least 15%; 20% if possible).
4. Get the basic design on paper as soon as possible. This would include plans, elevations and specifications. Whatever can be determined up front should be. This will help solidify your budget.
5. Obtain a minimum of three bids from contractors based on the basic design intent. Make sure they are pricing apples to apples.
6. Establish allowances for all large purchases such as plumbing fixtures, appliances, lighting and stick to them.
7. Check contractor references thoroughly; view their work if possible. Having an incompetent contractor will cost you money.
8. Get it in writing. Whatever pricing, materials and/or project schedules are agreed upon up front, they should be part of a written contract.
9. If your renovation project is large (and large is relative to your budget), you may want to consult an attorney to review or even write the contract for you.
10. Require insurance certificates (general liability and workmen's compensaton) from your contractor and subcontractors.
So What's Up With the Title?
Ok why is this article is entitled "Whose Minding the Store"? Well of course it is only a metaphorical question but it is one of great consequence. The "Store" is your budget. And the question is who will be minding it?
Believe it or not, I see many just sort of loose track of it. Then all of a sudden, wham, the reality hits them like a freight train. Someone needs to be in charge. It can be you, your architect or your designer but it should be done consistently by the same party and updated no less than once a month on a good size project. A written comparison of actual costs versus estimated costs. This will keep your budget from derailing.
Design build projects are difficult to anticipate costs way in advance keeping constant tabs on them is imperative. A good way to do this is to create categories or phases in the beginning. The construction industry uses what are known as CSI codes. These construction cost codes break down a project by every category and assign a number to it thus creating a schedule of values.
If your contractor is unfamiliar with them, they can create their own just make sure it covers all the categories you can think of and includes material and labor. Then when they invoice you, they should bill against these categories.
Not only will you see where you may be getting into trouble, you may also see where you have a windfall and can move some money (theoretically) around. Your contractor should be able to provide you with this information. It can easily be managed on a simple spreadsheet.
Don't Forget This One:
A category that many people overlook is general conditions. These costs can add up especially on a large project. It includes items such as dumpsters, temporary utilities, portable toilets, cleaning, management fees, temporary controls and protection to name just a few.
Other substantial amounts of course will be found in the major trades. These will include rough carpentry, plumbing, HVAC, electrical, millwork and finish carpentry, flooring, doors, windows and roofing materials.
Ok so now you have your design and a budget you can live with. Now what? Now a call to action. Research your product selections and their availability. The earlier decisions are made the earlier the orders can be placed. Delays cost money pure and simple.
Dilligence is the key:
Don't let the inertia of your project get your budget spinning out of control. By carefully monitoring your budget, you will not only get the finished project you desire but also may find a way to get things that were once only on your wish list.
Vacuuming Tips for your Carpet
Important when keeping your carpet clean is vacuuming
Vacuum with regularity, particularly in high-traffic areas. Remember that walking on soiled carpet allows the soil particles to migrate below the area of the pile where they are a lot more difficult to remove and can deteriorate the fibers. Habitual vacuuming removes these particles from the area before this happens.
Vacuuming Tips
For locations with infrequent use, vacuum the traffic areas twice weekly and the whole domain once weekly. Those areas with more use necessitate that the traffic areas be vacuumed daily and the entire area twice weekly. Up to three passes of the machine is ok for light soiling, but five to seven passes are necessary for firmly soiled areas. Diversify the vacuuming route periodically to help stand the pile even and minimize matting.
What type of vacuum should you purchase?
A good vacuum cleaner is vital to prolonging the beauty and life of your carpet. A bargain vacuum can eradicate surface dirt but will not effectively abstract the invisible dirt and particles embedded in the pile.
We prescribe the use of vacuums with a rotating brush or combination beater/brush bar that beats the carpet pile and mechanically loosens soil for deposal by the vacuum. Note that carpet with thick loop pile construction, particularly wool and wool-blend styles, may be delicate to beating of the pile surface and may become fuzzy. For these carpets, we endorse the use of a suction-only vacuum or a vacuum with an adaptable brush lifted away from the carpet so it does not agitate the pile. You can first test a beater bar vacuum in an insignificant place first, and then clean your main traffic areas if no deformation occurs.
Replaceable paper vacuum bags seem to work better of trapping the minor particles that will pass through cloth bags back into the room. High efficiency vacuum bags, also called micro filtration or HEPA bags, trap even tinier microscopic particles such as mold and mildew spores and dust mite byproducts, commonly found to be a source of allergies. This kind of vacuum bag is available under several names, such as the "MICRO-LINED" bag available at most vacuum specialty shops, or the "MICRO-Clean" bag available at some department and discount stores, and "MICRO FILTRATION" and "MICRO LINER" brands available at Sears stores. You need to confirm that these bags hold particles smaller than two (2) microns. All vacuum bags should be inspected usually and replaced when half full.
Check to ensure the belt of the vacuum is functioning properly and that the beater bar rotates and functions properly when pushed along the carpet. To alter the vacuum to the correct height setting for the carpet, raise the beater/brush bar to the highest setting and then lower it until it contacts the pile enough to faintly pulsate the carpet a small distance from the vacuum, but not low enough to origin major slowing of the motor.
It should be noted that many vacuum brands such as Dyson vacuum cleaners will automatically adapt themselves to your carpet height...this is a real time saver!
Diversify the vacuuming direction occasionally to help stand the carpet even and curtail matting.
Things to do and avoid when vacuuming
If you ever abuse the fine carpet cleaning powders, make sure you have a HEPA filter on your vacuum (either a HEPA bag or a HEPA bagless vacuum) this will eliminate having that fine dust from the cleaning power blown back into the room through the exhaust of your vacuum, where you will breath it!
Also, the cause of odors in vacuum cleaners is from bacteria growing in the bags (buying a 'bagless' vacuum will annihilate this problem!Bags should be changed at least once a month, or even more frequently depending on usage. Ensure and purchase vacum bags treated with a chemical that helps destroy the bacteria and odors in bags.
Don't ever pick up drywall soot or vacuum out the fireplace with your vacuum. The greatest vacuum for these types of cleaning tasks would be shop vacuums. (they are sold at any home improvement store) 'Shop' vacuums have heavy duty filters and are good for certain kinds of heavy dust and dirt.
Make sure not to maneuver your vacuum on saturated carpets or surfaces, unless they are rated as damp/dry vacuums.Operating common vacuums in this form will possibly deface them and cause early wear on the motor and other open components. There is also an electrical shock danger involved with using vacuums on wet surfaces as well...the beater bar can create a static buildup, which can result in an electrical hazard to you.
Again, if you have a vacuum that uses a bag...then reverse your bag AT LEAST once a month.There is a lot of odor and bacteria problems associated with full or half-full bags. Would you just leave your garbage in bags inside your house? That bag is one of the dirtiest areas in your home, full of germs and bacteria - replace it frequently.
Cleaning performance is dependent largely on that bag. A clogged bag also puts strain on your machine and puts more strain on your motor. The few cents you save in bags is wasted on the dollars that you'll spend for machine repairs.
Never admit your vacuum bag get over half full.
Diversify your belt about every three months.
Belts are Devised to elongate and wear out, the same as fan belts on cars. As the belt stretches the efficiency of the beater bar to effectively oscillate (and hence clean your carpets) will be diminished. You should reverse your belt about every 3 months depending on abuse. Contact your vacuum manufacturer to see if this is covered in their warranty.
Before You Hire A Decorative Artists, Ask The Right Questions
Hiring a decorative artist to work in your home is a personal experience. From the beginning planning stage to the actual process of painting, a homeowner and artist will spend many hours together. Below are five tips to aid the creative process, and insure you hire the most qualified studio that fits your projects needs.
Finding the Artist. Home Shows, interior designers, and local home magazines are ideal places to find professional artists. Check out the walls of established hair salons or restaurants. Try the local phone book-- many times artists are included in the paint contractors category.
A quick search on the web, using key words such as “Des Moines Faux Finish” may lead to immediate local results when looking for a specific area. Make sure to go through the first three pages of your search. You may also try www.FauxDirectory.com, a national database.
Questions For The Artist and You. When contacting the artist be prepared with questions. First, make sure the artist is an actual business entity, rather than a hobby painter. For example, decorative artists work is considered to be part of the construction industry in Iowa. Artists working on walls and interiors of homes are required to be a registered contractor with the state. To see if the artist your considering to hire check here http://www2.iwd.state.ia.us/contractor.nsf. Second, ask if the artist is covered by insurance. It is extremely important to ask if they are covered not only by liability insurance, but that all helpers on the jobsite are covered by workers compensation insurance. Decorative artists work on ladders and scaffolding on most jobs; safety must come first.
Other questions to ask include:
* Do you have a website?
* What is your lead time?
* How much is your consultation fee?
* Will you make a sample of any proposed ideas?
* Where have you been trained?
* Do you use professional, durable products?
While on the phone be prepared to explain to the artist what your vision and goals are for the proposed project area. Discuss ideas such as interior design style, or if you would like to add texture to the wall. Specific problems you are trying to solve, such as incorporating color into an open floor plan are crucial. Be ready to talk about budget—what is the amount of money you feel comfortable spending on a project.
During The Consultation. Most artists will meet potential clients in their homes. An average consultation takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes. If more than one room is to be discussed, prepare the artist before hand so plenty of time is scheduled. For large projects, a consultation can run considerably longer. Ideally, all decision makers are present. The artist will bring a portfolio of work. The portfolio can include a number of items such as large samples boards, photographs of completed homes, idea books, and color decks. Make sure to judge the portfolio on the quality of items, and not the sheer number. However, an artist who has many years experience will have a much larger portfolio than an artist starting out. Let the artist know what your budget is. If you do not feel comfortable, speak in broad terms such as “Between $1300-1800.” By telling the artist an approximate price range, the best finishes can be chosen that fall into the budget. The artist will also measure out the wall or ceiling area, and take your contact information to return your estimate.
Compare Estimates. When comparing estimates from several different decorative studios, make sure you are comparing the same finishes. An eight layer finish can range in the $8-12 s.f. category, while a 3 layer finish may price at $4 s.f. Glazed walls will be significantly less than textured finishes. The below example gives different price comparisons:
A small powder room is to mimic an old rustic and aged leather that finisher A. refers to as a colorwash. The finisher prices this at $1300. Finisher B doesn’t recommend the color red for the bathroom, but suggest a light tan leather look, also referred to as a colorwash on their estimate. The price is $650. Though it may seem as finisher A is double the price, the finishes are greatly different. The red leather finish will need a grey primer basecoat, as well as 2 coats of red paint. Red paint is often priced slightly higher than other colors, due to the red colorants added. The brown leather finish may not require a basecoat—the homeowner has leftover wall paint, and the painter has agreed this will work great for the basecoat by showing the homeowner a sample. The painter then will have to glaze the walls.
Ask the artist for an approximate time frame. An artist working alone may need several weeks to complete a home with multiple finishes. A studio with several trained artists on staff will complete the project in a shorter period of time. Examine each estimate. If a painter’s price is considerably lower than other estimates the standard of craftmanship may not be up to par with more qualified contractors. Weigh all factors-price quote, references, and professionalism before making a decision.
Hiring an artist is an exciting experience for any homeowner. Customizing your home, and inviting an artist to create an environment just for you is exciting and very personal. From asking and answering questions, to interviewing and reviewing estimates the process can be overwhelming. However, taking one step at a time, and focusing on your goals and vision will make the results tremendously rewarding.
May 4, 2009
Basic Home Security
Home security is on everyone’s minds these days, as we Americans are feeling more and more vulnerable in our homes, neighborhoods, cities, and even our country. Do what you can to secure your own little part of the world by increasing your home security.
Nowadays, deadbolts and a Doberman aren’t enough. Sophisticated criminals get past such home security measures, and violent criminals know how to bypass your basic home security. You have to fight to keep them out. Home Security Stores gives you the defenses and the weapons to protect your castle.
The Statistics
It may shock you to know that more than 40 percent of break-ins occur during the day, in broad daylight. Criminals know when you are away at work or school, and they take that chance to smash-n-grab. Secure your home 24 hours a day, seven days a week, because you never know when a criminal will strike.
Basic Home Security
Though basic home security may not be enough, it should not be ignored. Protecting your home starts with three basic home security measures: lock up, yard word, and light up.
1) Lock Up
Begin by installing sturdy locks on all your doors and windows. It may be tempting to leave the door unlocked when you are home, or to leave the window open on a hot night, but that is poor home security. Home security common sense requires you to remain vigilant at all times, and that includes properly securing yourself in your home.
2) Do Some Yard Work
Next, trim back bushes from lower windows. Criminals can easily hide in bushes and break in through windows. Trees provide problems as well, so cut tree limbs that create easy access to upper stories. The thought of someone scaling a tree to break into your home may seem implausible, but it happens. Total home security is a must, no matter how unlikely something seems to you.
3) Light Up
Finally, put the criminal in the spotlight -- literally. Light up your property with motion sensor lights or flood lights that leave criminals nowhere to hide. Home security starts by making criminals NOT want to break into your home. Shedding some light on the matter may be enough to drive them away.
Three Best Home Security Options
But what if this criminal is particularly determined to get past your basic home security? Not to fear, because technological advances have made home security into a powerful art form.
Home Security Stores offer a wide variety of methods to protect your home and family. Home security can mean alarms, locks, motion sensors, safes, and personal safety devices.
Option 1: Alarms
When we hear the term home security, alarms are what we might think of first. Whether wired or wireless, home security alarm systems are a major deterrent for criminals. They monitor points of entry, such as doors and windows, or they monitor for motion when the home should be empty.
•Motion Sensor Home Security
Motion sensor home security monitors and detects when unauthorized motion occurs in what should be an empty home. Modern motion sensor home security can even distinguish between a pet and a criminal, making this method of home security even more effective and dependable. Install a motion sensor home security alarm system in your home and know you have no unwelcome guests.
•Window Break Home Security
Windows are a popular point of entry because they are made of breakable glass. But there are home security devices that can detect when that glass is broken, setting off an alarm and scaring away the intruder.
Option 2: Motion Sensor Floodlights
We’ve already suggested good lighting around the exterior of your home, but you can save some energy by installing home security motion sensor floodlights that only come on when motion is detected. Security professionals highly recommend floodlights as a criminal deterrent.
Option 3: Security Cameras
How about having your home guarded 24/7 by a watchful eye? Security cameras, which are popular with merchants and other businesses, are fast becoming popular home security devices as well. A home security camera system monitors and records activities going on anywhere around your house. You can monitor a live feed or secretly tape what’s going on when you are away from home. Cameras act as an excellent deterrent and are extremely useful in the prosecution of criminals. Home security cameras catch them in the act.
So Many More Options
You have many options in home security. Complete home security means securing your home from more than just intruders. Protect yourself and your family from a variety of emergencies with:
• Smoke Alarms
• Heat Sensors
• Fireproof Safes
• Freeze Alarms
• Temperature Sensors
• Water Alarms
• Water Sensors
• Carbon Monoxide Detectors
• Personal Safety Alarms
• Pepper Spray
• Animal Repellent
• Panic Buttons
• Guide Lights
• Voice Dialers
• Biometric Readers
• Wireless Intercoms
Home security is big business these days. Follow our simple guidelines and you’ll have peace of mind and comfort in your home.
Tile Restoration An Affordable Alternative To Replacement
Few aspects of a home or office define its aesthetic impact more so than flooring. If your tile flooring has lost its original beauty and settled into a dull and lifeless decline, the professionals at The Grout Medic would like you to know that tile and grout restoration is often a preferable prescription to replacement. Our comprehensive restoration services include regrouting, grout cleaning and repair, tile cleaning and sealing, staining, and tile replacement, and our proprietary restoration procedures have been so influential as to gain the respect of an entire industry.
Over a period of time grout joints are bound to discolor, and when they do they instantly age your home in a way few other aspects of it can. At The Grout Medic it's our job to clean, seal, stain, or replace dirty grout and bring a brand new look back to your flooring. And we've done it so well that we've become the after-care expert of choice for many of the nations' leading tile and grout manufacturers
Our success is due in large part to a different mindset; one that has helped us chart a different course in bringing tile flooring back to life. Our certified technicians are the beneficiaries of a dedicated training program that introduces them to our Advanced Steam Vapor Technology. This technology applies a low pressure/high temperature approach that gently eases dirt and discoloration away and leaves your tile looking like new. And at a fraction of the cost of replacement.
Our advanced steam vapor technology provides superior results and will not damage grout joints, loosen tile, or adversely effect your flooring in any way. Furthermore, our products are environmentally friendly and perfectly safe for children and pets. There is a reason we received the #1 ranking in the Maintenance/Grout Repair category from Entrepreneur Magazine in 2008 and 2009. We've made restoration a viable option and preferable alternative to tile replacement via restoration technology that is truly the fountain of youth for tile and grout.
Our customers have the confidence of knowing that our services are backed by a national brand that is among the most respected in the tile and grout industries. They also have some of the best looking flooring around! Whether it's cleaning or sealing, replacing, or staining your grout, The Grout Medic is certain to offer the right prescription.
Shelves Of Modern Interior Decoration
We know that the interior of a room depends on the style and decor. Today the style has become fashionable to Hi-Tech. The apartments and office space are widely used for this kind of furniture like metal shelves. They have not only an attractive appearance, but distinguished by their functionality. Shelves furniture - it is easy hardware for your home.
This furniture, which is due to the numerous compartments and shelves, allowing accommodate a wide variety of items that can not fit in the cupboard. Where to buy racks of various kinds? First, it is public furniture and interior. It can be purchased at any furniture store. Large selection of various racks at affordable prices can be found in London. UK factories produce shelves. Secondly, there are special Internet shops where you can select and order furniture, but also, if you bring it in your own time.
First of all, the furniture in the room to fulfill its functional purpose. It should be compact and does not occupy the entire space of the room. To be attractive, and to emphasize the space and not clutter it. What are the main advantages of metal furniture such as shelves? Clearly, the benefits from this too much furniture, but the main advantage, in our opinion, is durability. Quality metal furniture, including metal shelving, can have long-term operation. Among other things, they do not require special care. Many prefer to install in the house, modular shelves and even a corner.
Shelves are often used as furniture in the stores where it is necessary to show the goods. Also used as office furniture. Each office will become more solid, the interior is easy to emphasize the many kinds of shelving. Metal furniture such as safes, racks - the symbol of longevity and quality. Even in the motor is widely used, this furniture: metal shelves, workbench.
There are: Pallet, shelf, cantilever, mezzanine racks, and shelving on mobile fundamentals, and many others. The most common use of the universal racks. This is convenient for the construction of warehouses, stores, archives and other facilities. Often in stores you can see the advertising rack or shelving. Maximum load - 50 kg. Shelves are different in height, width, depth, quantity and weight of the shelves. What is harder to rack, the more high-quality and sturdy construction. Also, this shows the ability to withstand as much load. By the shelves attach additional equipment, among which are: racks, adapters, galvanized fasteners, limiter, side and rear walls, neckerchief, corners and shelves. Shelves have a different color, often gray. For resilience to the structure to cause a special coating and produce a special treatment.
Thus, the shelves today - is not just a fat rugged construction capable of withstanding large loads. This, above all, a modern interior decor. Stylish appearance of this metal furniture favorably underline your room, make it unique and attractive.
Top Tips on Giving a Garden Makeover
Gardens need makeovers, too, for many reasons. These include changes in the soil conditions, change in seasons, change in lifestyle preferences and even just a change of mind! Whatever the reason, these top tips on giving a garden makeover will help you get the job complete to a high standard and in no time at all.
Plan Before Buying
Plants can be expensive and doubly so when they wither and die unexpectedly, in which case you would have to replace them. Therefore, it is always best to plan your garden according to your preferences such as; colours, seasonality and plant quality before purchasing from the nursery.
Even when you can ask from your family and friends for the plants themselves, you still will have to spend out on containers and fertilisers, not to mention investing your time. Therefore it is advised that you plan and research before planting and growing.
Think in Containers
Often, you only need to transfer existing garden plants to new containers to see them in a different light. Think fun, fashionable and fabulous containers to dress up an otherwise common-looking plant. You can think of this garden makeover activity as changing the look of an outfit with the right accessories.
You can also rearrange the plants in unusual designs, at least in terms of your previous preferences. For example, instead of the usual Shakespeare-themed garden, you can have a Japanese-themed garden makeover.
Speaking of accessories, the right statues, chairs and tables, ornaments, jars and even garden umbrellas can change an entire look and feel to a garden. Find inspiration from the houses architecture itself since you want to complement it with the gardens structure, not clash with it.
Go for Annuals and Perennials
Although some gardeners will not mix the two plant types, when it comes to garden makeovers, you will be surprised at the difference it makes. You can fill your garden with perennials like lilies, daisies and black-eyed Susan's and then add splashes of colour with annuals like petunias and pansies.
Look into garden design books to find ideas on how to mix and match these plant types to suit your gardening tastes and skills. You will discover new trends as well as classic arrangements that ought to withstand the test of time, or at least until the next garden makeover comes along.
Create Illusions
Gardens are meant to be fantasies come to life, so think of them as your own Garden of Eden that you can play with.
For example, create an illusion of a larger space with flower-adorned ornaments bordering a small flower patch, or an illusion of fairyland with twinkling lights in the trees. Your imagination is the only limit in your garden makeover.
Patronise Local Plants
When you want to save money on a garden makeover, one of the best ways to do so is to purchase from your local nursery. They ought to have more competitive prices and fresher stocks, which will be to your benefit.
Also, try to look for native plants. Not only will you be able to inject local touches into the garden but you will also be saving on cost because these plants are adapted to the environment. More adaptation, less care and less costs.
Indeed, garden makeovers can be easier than you first thought! Now, dig into the dirt and plant.
