A handyman is a person who is specialized in repairing certain things in your household. Range of works he’s skilled at includes plumbing, electrical works, carpentry, metal works and others. In a way, a handyman is the jack of all. Mostly, a handyman is called to do the odd jobs in your house like repairing leaking taps, broken hinges, tiles and many others. They can be hired to do minor repair works, cleaning or painting works. Sometimes, you may try to do the tasks usually done by a handyman on your own. But you may not have time to do all the repair works or you might not have the right tools to carry out the work. It is always good to hire a handyman to save you from further troubles.
Before hiring a handyman, you must make a list of jobs you want to be done. While making it, keep in mind that every handyman is not adept at doing all the jobs of your house. It is the smaller projects or odd one time jobs for which handyman are hired. Handyman who can handle most of the jobs is more expensive. So, if you are looking for a certain task to be done then you can save money by hiring the person who is specialized at doing that particular job. Like, if you want to get your home painted, it is advisable to hire the person skilled at just painting. If you hire a person who is skilled at more than one task, then it would be an expensive deal.
If you have a long list of tasks, you should hire someone who is skilled at variety of works. It will save your time and money too. Before hiring the handyman, ask for his qualifications, experience and references. These are very important questions. Getting references is valuable and is of great importance when hiring a handyman. With right kind of references, you can save you from many troubles later on such as shoddy work or theft. To ensure that you hire a trustworthy person who does good work, reference plays a great role. You can ask you friends, relatives and neighbours about handyman. Happy customers will surely refer a handyman’s name to other people.
Another important thing is to get a written estimate. Let him check your work and prepare a rough estimate of time and price. If you take verbal estimate, you may end up paying more than expected. Let the handyman sign a written contract so that later on he might not deny, in case anything goes wrong. If a handyman gives written contract, then he is more reliable.
July 29, 2009
Need to Hire a Handyman?
Do You Want To Be Burgled!!!
I’m sure your answer to that is a big fat “NO”.
If you have ever considered installing an alarm system in your residence, you know that a correctly installed home security system can bring peace of mind to you by protecting your home, your family and your belongings.Security is something we need to encompass, not only in our jobs and our finances, but also in our individual safety and our homes. Most individuals envisage about one day owning their own home and when we eventually arrive at that crucial point, it becomes our own exclusive sanctity where we can do what ever we choose without other people telling us what to do and if someone breaks that private sanctity, how would you feel ?. Do You Want To Feel Naked, Vulnerable and Violated. No, of course not, that’s why we need to have a burglar alarm to safeguard that security, otherwise that’s exactly how you’ll feel.
“It's All Over The News, You see It Everyday”
Crimes like robberies, hold ups and burglaries, happen everyday and are the typical news that you see on the television or hear over the radio. Criminals are not scared anymore. Of course, we are all aware of the many crimes that go unpunished these days. Even people who commit crimes are more sophisticated now; they have cutting edge technology that makes it easier for them to break into homes. Don’t you think it's about time for you to start thinking about your safety and counter their technology with your own? The best step to take is to install an alarm system. Isn’t it better to have some sort of alarm system in place than none at all.The results of many statistical surveys reveal that a home with an alarm system has fewer chances to fall victim to burglary. The burglar will easily take notice of the alarm, because he would prefer not to get caught. It doesn’t take much of the imagination to answer this question.
Which home would be an easy target for a intruder, Answer A. A home without an alarm system where the criminal can just waltz right on in as if there is a sign up saying come in and take what ever you like, we don’t mind, or Answer B. A home that has an alarm system with signs up saying Burglars Beware this house is protected. If I was a burglar I know which house I would target. So if your home has a burglar alarm, I’m sure a burglar will think twice before entering.But the big question is why DIY or Do It Yourself, well as I’m sure you already know, professionally installed Central Station monitored home security alarm systems can be quite expensive. These days individuals either can’t afford to have professionally installed alarms or they just like the concept of doing it themselves and saving money in the process. To all you DIY enthusiasts out there, you now have a chance to get a DIY burglar alarm system. There are security cameras that can make a recording of what’s going on, in and around your house day or night also spy equipment such as listening devices and spy cameras to identify but a few. For an instance, if an alarm system failed to interrupt an intruder perhaps one of the spy devices if it were installed, would be able to identify the culprit and be used in a court of law to convict them.
“There Is A Comprehensive Range Of Devices Available On The Market”Including; wireless smoke detectors, wireless motion sensors for both inside and outside options, wireless door and window contacts and glass breaking devices, basically everything to do with Alarms, cameras and CCTV (Closed Circuit TeleVision) At DIY Alarms, they provide you in with an inexpensive option to defending what's yours. Their selection of products are those used in the professional industry and have been carefully chosen to meet the needs of both home and business owners who are confident in installing the components themselves.
DIY burglar alarm kits are less expensive, effortless to fit and understand. It is best if you can find a burglar alarm which is of top quality to ensure your home's safety, and your family's safety as well. Beware of alarm systems which are very cheap, because more than likely they are not that dependable.Once you've chosen a DIY alarm system, you will be provided with installation manuals which will guide you in configuring your system. These manuals usually come with the products. You will learn how to administer the burglar alarm by programming it, inputting the engineering and user codes, and maintenance. A classic burglar alarm system consists of three parts, a control panel, a detector of some sort and a signaling device like a siren or alarm bell. These parts are connected with each other through multi-core cables and now you can even have wireless connections. If you want, you can choose between a wired and wireless connection, it all depends on your finances but just bare in mind that if a burglar knows what he’s doing, a wired system can be overcome by simply cutting the wires or even just turning off the power to the house if the system doesn’t have a battery back-up.“Wireless Alarm Technology” Has improved greatly over the past few years and is becoming increasingly more standard. A wireless system is straightforward and quick to install and can be added to with the smallest of fuss.Fitting your very own burglar alarm system should be based on your personal planning and design. You will need the tools and the know how to do the installation, although it might take a little longer to do the work yourself, it will all be worth it in the long run.
“DIY Burglar Alarms Are Not Hard To Find”
You can find them just about anywhere. Local handyman stores, electrical shops, even the big retail chains and of course the Internet. You can find great deals, but again, remember to choose a good quality burglar alarm. Don’t sacrifice quality for the price. Top quality burglar alarms at a reasonable price are the best choice. This is why it is always a good idea to do your research and learn as much as you can about home security. Start your search by checking out different shops. It's better if you can find a store which can provide you a more tailored service, like for example, a store which can teach you some of the basics about burglar alarms.Home security doesn’t just come to an end after you have installed your home security system. There are other things that you can do to help keep your home and belongings safe if you really want to have home security for your family.
These days you also have to be sneaky, you have to outwit your would-be burglar, for an example perhaps you have a wall safe, you could use it as a decoy, one that the burglar will find with not too much effort while your real valuables are stored in a hidden book safe in plain sight, or even a secret Ajax soap box in the laundry. I know it’s hard times as soon as you have to resort to things like that but for peace of mind isn’t it worth it. There are many reasonably priced security systems but a number of of them are more expensive. So all you need to do is, figure out what your budget is, so that you know what you can afford and what you can’t. Taking into account, if you have designed a system that is up-gradable, that some items can be purchased at a later date when your budget allows it. There are more and more people who are opting for do it yourself home security. These days it pays to be safe and people are realizing that. Because there are so many different home security systems available on today’s market, it can become a daunting task to find the security system that fits your needs. This is where DIY Alarms come in.
“DIY Alarms, Are Your 1 Stop Shop”
You don’t need to shop anywhere else for Electronic Security, which includes DIY Alarms, DIY Cameras and DIY CCTV catering for the Consumer Direct and DIY Security markets, DIY Alarms offers high quality products and accessories that have traditionally only been able to be obtained from specialist security companies. They also have some of those sneaky hidden products that I mentioned above. With do it yourself home security you can definitely save money on installation costs and at DIY Alarms, they are there to help you do exactly that. They will even give you a free gift with every alarm system or camera purchased. So if you choose to save time and money and not be searching all over the place looking for this component or that component to put your alarm system together then click here and get all your components from the one place.
DIY Alarms personnel have been in the security business for many years, they know their stuff. If you need to know more about designing a system to suit your needs or have any questions about their products, please feel free to send them a message at the Contact Us section on DIY
Alarms and their friendly personnel will respond.I hope this blog has been informative and given you some insight to Do It yourself alarm systems.
All the best with your DIY Projects.
John.
The Design of Platform Beds is Elegant and Functional
A platform bed is a fantastic example of an effective fusion of form and function. It is sturdy and space-efficient, yet it is simple in every way. Essentially, a platform storage bed is comprised of a flat and rigid frame with a mattress nested in it. With a storage platform bed, no box spring is necessary. These beds often come equipped with a headboard, but almost never a footboard. This makes them very sleek and space-efficient, while maintaining their characteristically simple aesthetic.
This minimalist aesthetic is what truly defines platform beds. But just because they are simple, do not assume that they aren't stunningly beautiful! In fact, the subtle designs and shapes of these beds, while practical, are also often painstakingly planned and designed by expert craftsmen, engineers, and artists. In other words, quality modern storage platform beds are designed by people who know how to do "a lot with a little," and produce quality – if not quantity- in their designs.
These beds have a long history that is deeply rooted in Asian tradition. Initially, they were used to keep the sleeper off of the cold floor, but eventually they grew to be elegant symbols of luxury and affluence. Now, thanks to online sales and advanced manufacturing methods, they can be produced to be just as beautiful as they have always been, but at a fraction of the price. This means you can find great platform storage beds that fit your budget.
One of the most popular and desirable features of modern platform storage beds is the storage space they provide. Whether in drawer form or the more complicated "lift" style platform beds, you will surely love the way your bed makes your whole room feel more organized and cleaner. These features are designed just as the rest of the bed is designed: with elegance, beauty, and utility always in mind. No space is wasted with platform beds; you get an artistic, space-efficient, and very useful bed that will last you a lifetime.
For an even greater sleeping experience, it is recommended that you pair your platform beds with a memory foam mattress, as the combination of a malleable mattress and a sturdy frame makes for unparalleled support and comfort.
Kids Beds on a Budget
In this economy, of course no one likes the idea of spending money, but in some cases, you do need to. One area that most parents don\'t feel like passing up on is that of kids\' beds and it makes a great deal of sense. When your child outgrows their crib, they do need a bed and if you are short on space or you would rather have your child feel a little more secure, make sure that you consider which bed will suit them. The nice thing about this is that children\'s beds are quite common and easy to find, and with just a little bit of work, you will discover that they are nowhere near as pricey as you might be afraid of.
In the first place, make sure that you avoid the major department stores. Not only are you going to be dealing with a limited about of merchandise, you will also find that you are in a place where you will need to worry about shoddy workmanship and other problems. Throw into that the fact that many people who work in department stores are very much inclined to pressure you in ways that you might not like and you have recipe for getting a bed that really doesn\'t suit you. The department stores really aren\'t a great place to get a kids\' bed when you are shopping on a budget, so where should you go?
The answer is actually, "straight to your computer!" When you shop online, you are going to have many different options available to you and they are not going to be limited by what happens to be in the store room or what happens to be on the display floor that day! Take a moment to consider what kind of variety you can get online and what kind of options are going to be open to you in this respect. There are so many wonderful options that you have available to you that you will soon be browsing happily. Don\'t forget to bring your child over and to ask them what they think about it all. Giving them a little bit of input into this decision is something that you should consider.
Remember that not only should you look at the large specialty; you should also look on classifieds sites like Craigslist and eBay. These sites will have some great options for you, though you should remember that you are going to have many different choices available to you, always keep shipping in mind. If you are dealing with someone selling locally, it will be definitely be worth your while to figure out whether you can pick it up yourself. Choosing a good children\'s bed does not have to be hard and it really does not have to be too expensive; just look at all of the options around you!
When your child is ready for their own bed, finding them a kids\' bed on a budget might be the best option that is open to you. It is not hard to do, and once you get online and start searching, you will soon realize that you have some great choices.
Backyard Ideas: Convert Your Old Shed Into Your Favorite Getaway
Do you have an old shed sitting in your backyard that has seen better days? Has it past its life expectancy? Has the original paint job made way for a more prominent color called rust? Well, if you have answered yes to just one of these question, I would like to share a weekend project with you that will turn that old shed into your favorite getaway.
Don’t get rid of that eye sore of a shed that has taken over the back corner of your backyard. Stop being embarrassed every time you have guest over because no matter how nice the rest of your yard is, that rust bucket keep screaming “look at me, look at me.” Well, it is time you give visitors to your home a good reason to look. In just one weekend you will have created a backyard oasis that not even you will be able to resist. Have I convinced you to give that large piece of garden sculpture a chance at a new life? Good. Now let’s get started.
One word of advice, GET AN EARLY START! This is without a doubt a weekend project. The earlier in the day you start, the better time management you will have.
Get rid of the old and make way for the new:
The first thing on the agenda to do is clean out that old shed. Get rid of everything. You need to start with a clean slate. The best way to tackle this task is to find a new home for these items and instead of stock piling everything over to the side, go ahead and place them in their new permanent storage location. This will prevent you from having to do a lot of extra work later on. Besides, when you finish creating your new backyard getaway, you don’t want your old storage items blocking your view.
Purchase all the items you will need:
Unfortunately, this project will cost you a little money. But, to your surprise, you can accomplish your goals for under $200 depending on how many of these items you already have.
1)You are going to have to paint the shed in order to breathe new life into it. Buy a gallon of GOOD primer and a gallon of EXCELLENT exterior paint. The qualities of these two items are vital for establishing longevity of your paint job. This is not the area where you want to try a save a few bucks. If you do it right today, your shed will still look like a great backyard getaway and be just as inviting fifteen years from now.
Be careful to purchase paint that the manufacturer has created specifically for the material your shed is made from. If your shed is made from metal, you will need a paint designed to cover metal. If your shed is made from wood, you will need a paint designed to cover wood. No matter what your shed is made from, you will need to purchase exterior paint and not paint created for interior surfaces.
This is the time to choose a bright color to paint your shed. Choose a color that will draw the eye of your guest to the shed. Do not be afraid to use color. Your best option is to pick a color that will contrast against the color of your planting material.
2)Purchase 6 LARGE potted plants. These will be used to create a lush garden appeal as well as draw the eye of the visitor to your shed. Try and purchase plants that are, or will be in a very short amount of time, at least five feet tall (including the pot). They should have a look of maturity, be lush and full in nature, and very healthy. DO NOT purchase trees. They will grow to be too tall and eventually overpower the space. You want to create something that is at eye level. Some suggestions are flowering plants or palms.
3)An alternative to the 6 potted plants would be to purchase climbing roses or one of your other favorite vines. Plant them in the ground and allow them to climb up both sides of the shed. Either a store bought trellis or a trellis you have created from scratch would be ideal for achieving the desired effect.
4)Purchase decorative pots to house your large potted plants. The larger the pots the better. Keep in mind that your potted plants need room to grow so buy large, very large pots. Make sure they can withstand the changes in the outside climate. If you live in one of the northern states, your pots must be able to withstand extreme cold. If you live in one of the southern states, your pots must be able to endure heat waves.
Do not be afraid to mix and match the colors of your pots. Purchase bright colors that catch the eye from a distance and have interesting detailing on them. Do not go for plain and boring. You are trying to create the WOW factor and playing it safe is the last thing you want to do. Now is the time to take advantage of the use of color.
5)Purchase additional planting material to fill in the gaps between the large potted plants. These should be plants that are planted directly into the ground. Plant as much flowering plants as you can squeeze into this space. The idea here is to create a lush garden along both sides of the shed. Do not worry about over-crowding, as the plants out grow the space you can dig them up and plant them somewhere else in the yard. You want your garden shed getaway to have that mature look today, not two years from now.
6)Purchase flooring for your new shed. This is optional and should only be purchased if your budget allows. If your shed is already sitting on a concrete slab you could lay decorative tile down, stain it, or have it resurfaced and stamped. There are many decorative styles your concrete slab can be stamped in. However, this is a job for a professional and by far the most expensive method I have mentioned. If your shed is sitting on the ground, indoor/outdoor carpet might be a good option.
7)You are going to need a small table and two chairs. These are items you may already own. If you must purchase them, be sure to consider the inside space of your shed. There is only so much space inside a shed. You do not want to purchase a table and chair set that is too large.
8)Purchase two outdoor wall candle lanterns and one outdoor hanging candle lantern. Two will be used to light the entryway into the shed (place one on each side) and one will be used to provide lighting inside the shed. The Candle Lantern Shop has excellent choices of outdoor hanging candle lanterns that sit on its own stand.
Now it is time to convert that old shed into your backyard getaway
a) Prime the inside and outside of the shed.
b) Paint the inside and outside of the shed.
c) Lay your flooring material.
d) Place your potted plants on both sides and in the front of the shed. Begin by placing one potted plant on each side of the entryway. Be sure they are centered and attractively invites your guests in. Then place two on the left side of the shed and two on the right side of the shed.
e) Fill in the spaces between the potted plants with the additional plant material you have purchased. The more flowering plants you install the better. You are trying to create a focal point using the color from the flowering plants and contrast created by the large scale of the potted plants.
f) Install the outdoor wall candle lanterns (one on each side of the entryway) at least 12 inches from the doorway.
Placement of the wall candle lanterns is extremely important. You do not want to be more than 12 inches from the entryway because the candles are open flame and will cause a safety hazard. You do not want to be too far away from the entryway either. After all, the idea is to provide a lighting source for safe entry into the shed during the evening hours.
Be sure to carefully measure the distance from the ground to the height where you will be drilling a hole for the screws that will hold the candle lantern up on the wall. You want both wall candle lanterns to be of equal height and distance from the doorway. Repeat the measurement that was used on the left side to the right side of the entryway.
g) Add your table and chairs inside the shed
h) Place your outdoor hanging candle lantern within close proximity of your table
i) If your shed has electricity, place a nice table lamp on the table. If your shed does not have electricity, consider purchasing additional candle wall sconces or a candle chandelier from The Candle Lantern Shop and install them within the shed.
j) Add a small potted plant here and there to bring the outside in. Fill a decorative pot with a mixture of colorful flowering plants. This is a great way to add seasonal color.
k) Take a step back and look at what you have created. Add any additional accessories you may need to help create a warm and welcoming environment. Look at the shed as though it is an outside “garden room.” Because accessories will be protected from the weather, consider items from around the house that will help you transform the shed into a place that is calm, soothing, and inviting. You want this to be a place that you will enjoy having your morning coffee or reading a good book or just a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
As you can see, converting your old shed into your favorite getaway can be accomplished within ten easy steps. So, the next time you look out your kitchen window and see that old garden shed of an eye sore, do not get dismayed. Go to your local garden center, pick up a few items, and transform that worn down shed into a refurbished oasis.
Creating a Beautiful Focal Point Using Candle Lanterns
Candle lanterns come in a host of sizes, styles, colors, shapes, and price ranges. With that being said, if you are looking for that WOW! factor at your next event, you cannot afford not to add candle lanterns to your décor.
It does not matter whether you are planning a wedding, anniversary bash, baby shower, Christmas party, Labor Day gathering, 4th of July BBQ, or any special event, using candle lanterns to create a beautiful focal point is the way to go. I am going to show you how to create a focal point around your banquet table.
If your gathering is a less formal one, apply these ideas to the table in which you provide your guest for eating. The only difference is the type of accessories and style of candle lanterns you use.
Budget
The first thing you want to do is decide on your lighting budget. Do your homework. The internet has hundreds, if not thousands, of online shops that sell candle lanterns. Do some comparison shopping to get a general idea of what you can afford to purchase. Keep in mind that typically the smaller the candle lanterns the cheaper the price.
Don't be afraid to purchase small lanterns, they can have just as much of an impact on your design scheme as the larger ones.
Pros to renting candle lanterns
Some prefer to rent candle lanterns for their social event. The benefit to renting is you are not stuck with having to store all those candle lanterns after the event is over.
Cons to renting candle lanterns
The drawback to renting is that it cost almost as much, and in some cases more, to rent than it does to buy. Also, candle lanterns are very durable. They can be re-used year after year. So, if you believe that you will be hosting more than one event within the next two - three years, renting is not a good option.
Choosing the right candle lanterns style
Another thing to keep in mind when shopping around is the various styles of candle lanterns you are attracted to. Always consider what type of event you are hosting. If you are hosting a bridal shower you would fair out better selecting candle lanterns that have more of an elegant style rather than ones that are rustic. If it's a backyard BBQ then consider candle lanterns that are simplistic in nature with clean lines and not too ornate. If you are hosting a July 4th outdoor event consider the color white and add the colors red and blue with tablecloths, napkins, and accessories.
To keep things from becoming too complicated, when you are doing your comparison shopping pay close attention to the types of candle lanterns you migrate towards most often, choose one, and build your theme around it.
How many candle lanterns do I need to purchase?
It all depends on the size of the table you will be placing your candle lanterns on. You will however need to purchase at the very least three. Purchase a larger candle lantern to serve as your centerpiece and two smaller ones to compliment it.
The candle lanterns you purchase do not have to be of the same design but they should be of the same style. An example of design is when all your candle lanterns look exactly alike. They do not have to all look alike. An example of style is if you choose a Moroccan style candle lantern for your centerpiece, you should choose a Moroccan style candle lantern for your side pieces. Meaning they can look different, but they should all be from the same "family" of candle lanterns.
How do I create my candle lanterns theme?
1. If your budget is very small, consider limiting your decorating to a small area that will become a focal point within your space. As your budget permits, take the ideas listed here and expand on them.
2. Start by analyzing the main room where your guests will be gathering. When you first entered the room what area immediately caught your eyes? That will most likely be the best area for a focal point.
3. Place a large table in your focal point area. Lay a decorative tablecloth on it. Make sure your tablecloth fits well within the "theme" you are trying to create. Also, be sure that the tablecloth is not wrinkled or soiled in any way. It may sound funny but it has been known to happen.
4. Be sure you purchase a tablecloth that is the right size for your table. It should not hang longer than 4-5 inches down from the sides of the table. The reason for this is the tablecloth should never come in contact with the lap of the person sitting at the table.
5. Keep in mind that you do not have to limit yourself to traditional tablecloths. Visit a fabric store and consider purchasing a few yards of fabric, cut to size, and sew a hem at the bottom. This is a great way to add a very unique element to your table. After all, it is the backdrop on which your candle lanterns will rest.
6. If your budget permits, purchase enough fabric to cover the backs of the chairs. Buy yards of wide ribbon in a complimentary color and use it to secure fabric by tying a bow.
7. Add your centerpiece candle lantern in the center of the table. This should be the largest one you purchased.
8. Add the smaller coordinating lanterns on the left and right side of your centerpiece.
9. If you have several rectangular tables grouped together, repeat this process paying careful attention to how you space each candle lantern arrangement. You want your lanterns to be displayed in a uniform manner.
10. Now add coordinating accessories to your table. Do not limit your color scheme to just one single color. That is boring and the WOW! factor will be lost due to a lack of color. You should have no less than 3 unique colors at your table. What I mean by unique is if your color is red, do not use a second color of red in a different shade. Choose the shade of red you like best and complement it with the color white or another color of your choosing. This not the time to be afraid to use color. Color catches the eye in a beautiful way. It will set the tone for the entire room.
11. Some accessory ideas are garland (used very sparingly), live flowers, silk floral arrangements, live ivy (instead of the garland), beautifully coordinated cloth napkins, napkin rings, china, party favors, programs, menus, place cards, and scrolls.
12. Browse through magazines to get more ideas as to what you can use to decorate your table in a style that is pleasing to your eyes.
13. Depending on your budget, you might want to consider renting pedestals of two different heights. On the taller pedestal, place a large candle lantern. On the smaller one place a beautiful potted fern. Take some of your garland or live ivy and drape it around the pedestals from the top leading around the sides. Usually one or two strands are more than enough. In this case, less is more.
14. Be sure that whatever types of potted plant you choose you use it all throughout your room. You want to create a look of uniformity within the space. If you place different "types" of plants on pedestals, you run the risk of causing the eye to stop at each pedestal instead of viewing the decorating scheme as a whole.
15. Just before your guests are scheduled to arrive, light the candles. If you use scented candles, then before long the room will be filled with a beautiful fragrance.
16. The light from the candles will cast a beautiful glow down onto the potted ferns portraying breath taking shadows against the wall behind them. This will also give your space a beautiful lighting scheme. One your guests will not soon forget.
17. Now sit back and watch the reaction of your guest as they arrive.
Creating a beautiful focal point using candle lanterns is not a complicated as it may seem. Candle lanterns are the world's original source of artificial lighting. They date back to prehistoric days.
Americans all across the globe have been using candle lanterns as a major part of their design schemes for decades. This is your opportunity to use candle lanterns to make a statement and create a WOW! factor at your next social gathering.
July 26, 2009
Keep Your Yard Green with Solar Outdoor Lights
With the creation of many eco-friendly outdoor lighting options, there has been less of a reason to use unnecessary electricity from your home to light your walkways, front porch, and backyard areas. With the “green” solar-powered lighting options, you can allow the sun to create all of the energy it takes to safely and decoratively light your home. Below are a few lighting options to consider.
Solar Powered Cordless Flood Light
A solar powered cordless floodlight can be conveniently placed anywhere on your front lawn. Whether you need to light up your house number so that guests may find your home, or if you simply want to highlight a decorative wreath hanging on your front door, these lights work to store the sun’s energy during the day for up to twelve hours of light throughout the night. This cordless light can go directly into the ground without any dangerous wires or costly electrician bills.
Solar Powered Walkway or Driveway Lights
Solar powered walkway and driveway lights work to collect power from the sun during the day in order to shine for twelve hours at night. These great lights safely light up your walkway or driveway and do not require any cords or expensive hard wiring. They are available in a stainless steel, weather proof material that can perfectly adorn the lawn of any home!
Solar Color Changing Lights
Solar powered lights work similarly to the solar powered walkway and driveway lights, but add a unique twist to home lighting. These lights are set to automatically turn on at dusk and off at dawn, and continuously morph throughout the night from blue to green, red, and yellow lights.
Solar Bug Zapper Light
This solar powered light not only lights up your yard, but also helps to keeps those annoying bugs away from you. The light gains power from the sun during the day, and uses its bright light at night to lure mosquitoes, flies, and other insects towards a fatal zap.
Slim Solar Powered Lights
Climbing your back deck steps can sometimes be dangerous when you can not see where you are going. These slim, solar powered lights conveniently attach to your steps or walkway to help illuminate the way. No wires are necessary making this eco-friendly product safe and efficient.
Solar Light up Owl
This light is a great addition to any home. Simply place the solar powered owl near trash cans, or in your vegetable garden, to scare away any rodents looking for a late night snack. The eyes of the owl store energy from the sun during the day to illuminate and ward off any scavengers from dark to dusk.
Solar Net Lights
Solar powered net lights are a very decorative way to light up your landscaping. Simply place the net lights over the bushes and trees in the front of your home, and watch as the sun charges the lights for up to eight hours of illumination. These lights are perfect for the holiday season as well. Keep your electric bills down next holiday season by using these solar powered lights complete with long lasting LED’s.
Solar Powered Driveway Marker
If you live on a dark road, it is sometimes hard to see anything behind you as you back out of your driveway at night. These red driveway reflective markers help to light the way for drivers pulling in and out of your driveway at night. They help to protect garden borders and keep cars off of your beautifully manicured lawn. These handy lights are available in flashing or solid modes.
Solar Table Top Lamp
Hanging out on your deck or patio at night is a time-honored tradition during the warm weathered months. However, as the evening grows long, lights are needed to keep the night afoot. A solar powered table top lamp can be a perfect addition to keep the good times from never ending. These great lights store energy during the day and emit a soft, friendly light during the evening.
Solar Flag Light
Whether you are proudly portraying the American Flag, or perhaps just a decorative seasonal flag, investing in a solar powered spotlight can brighten up the front of your home. This solar flag light slips onto your flagpole, captures the sun’s energy during the day, and illuminates the flag at night for all passersby to see.
Solar Path Lights
These square path lights can create a border around your walkway or driveway to light the way, and keep people safe from tripping or falling at night. These flat, ultra bright LED lights automatically turn on when it gets dark after charging from the sun’s energy all day long.
Solar Tube Lights
These convenient PVC tube lights stay lit from very bright, solar powered LED lights. They can wrap around trees or mail boxes to be decorative, or they can line a walkway to light a safe path for anyone walking towards your home. An automatic sensor turns the lights on when it gets dark so you can be sure they are on when needed.
In-Ground Pool Pumps - Things To Consider Before Buying
The importance of in-ground swimming pool pumps cannot be understated as they are essential for keeping pool water clean. Yet, with so many different brands and models of in-ground pool pumps available on the market today, knowing which one will work best for your pool is not always easy. However, simply by considering a few points before you set out to purchase a new pool pump, you will make the selection process far easier, as you will have a much clearer idea of which swimming pool pumps will provide you with the best results so you can enjoy crystal-clear, healthy pool water all season long.
In-ground swimming pool pumps are powered by electricity and play a vital role in keeping pool water clean and safe for swimming. They do this by circulating the pool water through the pool's filter where the water is cleansed of debris and potentially harmful contaminants. Then the pump propels the clean water back into the swimming pool. Without a pump to serve this purpose, your pool would quickly become dirty and cloudy as various pollutants and debris would accumulate in the water. This result would not only be unsightly, it could also be dangerous, as the pool water would likely become a breeding ground for bacteria and other harmful microorganisms.
Proper water circulation as provided by in-ground pool pumps is also beneficial in other respects as well. For instance, good water circulation in the pool allows for more even distribution of chemicals throughout the water. At the same time, by keeping the water moving, swimming pool pumps discourage insects such as mosquitoes from laying their eggs in the water, which can be a nuisance as well as a health risk. By providing so many important benefits, in-ground swimming pool pumps are absolutely essential for proper pool maintenance.
When you are ready to purchase a new pump for your in-ground swimming pool, you need to take the size of your pool and the capacity of the available pumps into account. Different swimming pool pumps are designed for pools of different volumes and will only provide peak performance if they are matched to pools of the proper size. Your pool pump should be able to pump the entire volume of your pool's water within eight hours. If it is not powerful enough to do so, the water will not be properly circulated or cleaned. The gallons of water pumped per minute, referred to as a pump's GPM, will help you determine whether or not a particular pump will be a good match for your pool.
Once you have narrowed down your options to swimming pool pumps of the right power and capability for your pool, it's time to consider quality and durability. Naturally, you will want to invest in a piece of equipment that not only offers peak performance, but that will also last for many years to come. One way to ensure that you receive good quality is to stick with trusted brand names that are solidly established in the pool supply industry. Hayward pool pumps, for example, have been available for many years and are known for their reliability, superior construction and top-notch performance. With Hayward pool pumps and other pumps from top brand names, you can feel confident that you are purchasing first-class equipment.
Another way to ensure that you will end up with a pump that will last for many years is to look at the specifics of each model's construction. In-ground pool pumps with corrosion-proof and weather-resistant housing will be able to withstand extreme weather conditions and will keep the pump's internal elements well protected. Again, Pentair and Hayward pool pumps as well as pumps from other top manufacturers are very likely to feature rugged design and other great features that will enhance their durability and extend their life span.
Last but not least, when you are checking out the many available models of in-ground pool pumps, you need to consider factors such as efficiency and the noise level associated with operation. Energy-efficient in-ground pool pumps naturally require less electricity to operate, providing greener and money-saving options. Also, pump models that minimize turbulence will also provide quieter operation so you can enjoy your swimming pool without the unnecessary intrusion of a noisy pump motor.
Although there are a multitude of different swimming pool pumps available for you to choose from, the process of purchasing a new pump doesn't need to be overwhelming or difficult. Selecting the right pump for your swimming pool is simply a matter of knowing your individual preferences as well as the requirements of your particular in-ground pool. When you keep all of the above factors and considerations in mind, you can feel confident that you will find and purchase a swimming pool pump that will provide you with excellent and reliable water circulation for many seasons to come.
Satisfying Both The Homeowner And The Yard: Installed Lawn Irrigation Systems
Save Time, Money, and Energy with an Installed Lawn Irrigation System
Summer is meant to be a time of relaxation and refreshment, and that is why many homeowners are turning to installed http://www.sunshinelandscapeirrigation.com/irrigation.html to save them the trouble of dealing with yard work. Not only do installed lawn irrigation systems save time and money, but they are also great at saving water. Whether the lawn is large or small, flat or sloped, lawn irrigation systems are tailored to fit your yard's needs and keep it looking healthy and green all summer long.
The two most common types of sprinkler heads are the spray and rotor. The spray head can be installed to spring out of the ground when turned on, or are permanently above ground. The spray head has a high application rate, which simply means that they spout large amounts of water in a short period of time. They are best used on even surfaces, otherwise you risk wasteful run-off on a slope. They do not rotate, and because the spray nozzle is a finer nozzle it runs the risk of getting clogged easier. However, the spray nozzle comes in a variety of nozzle patterns and distances.
The rotor head, on the other hand, is better suited for uneven lawns or slopes because of the rotating nozzle. They have a lower application rate and are better suited for larger plots of land. Because the nozzle has a larger opening, the risk of getting clogged is lessened and it can water as much land as a spray with less sprinkler heads. Because of the rotation, however, it may take three times longer to water an area.
Both spray heads will ensure a greener lawn, and both will provide any homeowner with a relaxing and easy summer. Without hoses to untangle or sprinklers to turn on and off, your summer is suddenly free to do all the things you were hoping to do. You can travel without worry of returning to a dried up yard. You can take your weekend mornings to enjoy your lawn without having to stand for hours watering it. No more run-off water on your house and driveway, and no more forgetting the sprinkler at nights. Installed lawn irrigation systems remove the stress of lawn work quickly and consistently.
Along with time saved, homeowners will be saving themselves money too. Water bills can skyrocket during the summer with the struggle to maintain a green and healthy lawn. Installed irrigation systems will ensure that your lawn is getting the right amount of water in the right areas. Run-off water is a waste and leaky hoses waste even more. Each lawn irrigation system is custom set to ensure that your lawn is given the right amount of water in the right spots, and that ensures you a lower, predictable water bill.
The environment will also benefit from the conserved water and the proper application of water to a homeowners lawn. Installing an irrigation system forces a homeowner to understand and take responsibility of their lawn and water used, and when you understand what your lawn demands you will be able to wield better results. More plants, a healthier yard, and a fresh environment are just a few benefits of a well watered lawn.
For those who travel or who would rather be sleeping in on the weekends than out water, an installed irrigation system is a must have. Installed irrigation systems only need to be programmed once and can be controlled after with a push of a button. Homeowners will never have to worry about leaving their lawn and coming back to it brown and dried up. Sensors can be connected to keep the sprinklers from wasting water when it rains, and homeowners get to choose the time and duration of each sprinkler round. Watering your lawn has never been so simple or consistent.
With all the time and money saved using an installed irrigation system, homeowners can finally make the most of their summers. The process is simple and the results priceless. It has never been so easy to have a green and healthy lawn, and with minimum effort. Forget about hoses and sprinklers and wasteful run-off. An installed irrigation system will take care of your lawn personally and regularly.
Decorating with Rugs
Rugs are both decorative and practical. You should aim to get the best of both worlds when using rugs in your house. Rugs can also be used to separate and distinguish areas in a room. This is useful for efficient use of space. You can follow some of the suggestions below in order to achieve those aims.
Because rugs can have an effect on the overall look of a room selecting rugs you don't like cannot have happy consequences. In other words use only rugs that you feel comfortable about.
When selecting rugs for decorating, the size of the rug should depend on the effect you are aiming for. For instance rugs are useful as focusing agents, accenting a table, a sofa, or a bed, placed on top of them. Rugs themselves can be used as focal points without any furniture on them. This kind of highlighting can be done in almost any room in your house. In order to find the exact size required you should measure the floor in the area you wish to place the rug and then imagine the effect of placing it there with the help of floor markings. This method will give you a good is idea about the proportions of the rug that will be required and you will be able to judge whether effect you are aiming for can be successfully brought out.
Decision as to whether to use a large rug or several smaller ones will depend on similar considerations. A larger rug will unite the items placed on it into a unit, while smaller rugs can be used to break the room into several sections. Colors and patterns of the rugs should also be taken into account in this regard. Using rugs with similar colors and patterns will make them blend in with the room, while contrasting colors will help divide the room. For instance by using two a fairly large rugs with different patterns and colors you can divide the room into two.
Placing rugs on their own without any furniture also adds color to that room and that space. You can make the room look larger or smaller according to your wish by choosing complementing or contrasting colors for the rugs in comparison to the room's color scheme. Range of rug patterns on offer can be huge. Since their contrasting or completing effects can be infinite, before buying you should always check the effect by placing different rugs against each other and against room's general décor. Generally lighter colors and patterns create a more spacious feeling, while heavier and darker colors create a warm coziness.
By using differently shaped rugs and rugs with fringes, you can give your rooms a certain decorative fair and make them less formal.
Similarly rugs can be used for defining space in a room. By placing two chairs, a sofa, and a small table, on a rug you can demarcate a sitting area easily. If the rug is not large enough place only the front legs of the chairs on the rug, however to get the best decorative effect you should place the furniture completely on the rug. In order to save space you should avoid empty rug space behind the furniture.
In the dining room, rug should be large enough to cover the feet of the chairs when they are being used by a person sitting at the table. Before buying you should get accurate measurements to ensure this. Keep the other furniture in the dining room off the rug to get a nice effect.
In the bedrooms you do not need a large rug under the bed to highlight it. Most of it will be covered up by the bed in any case. Use smaller rugs and place them around the bed.
Rugs placed on the hallways and at the entrance will create the tone for the rest of your house décor. They should also make the guests feel welcome to the house. So you must choose those rugs with care.
For places with high foot traffic choose darker colors with heavier patterns in order to disguise the effect of usage. When placing the rugs ensure that high foot traffic areas should be covered by the middle part of the rug. Placing corners of the rug in such places can be dangerous.
You must leave enough space for door clearance if the space between door and floor is not enough for the rug. Using thinner rugs will save space in such situations. You should take the precaution of using rug pads. Rug pads protect the rugs from wear due to the friction between the rug and the floor or carpeting below, and increase their durability. They also stabilize the rug by providing a slip free foundation to the rug. Hardwood floors should not be covered completely by the rug. At least several inches of hardwood should be exposed to the air around the room if you want to use a large room covering rug on such a floor. Other factors that need to be considered include wiring and vents on the floor.
Rugs of various sizes, patterns, and colors, can be obtained to fulfill these decorative and practical functions as required. However larger the rug, the range of buying options available, whether it be colors, styles and materials, or patterns, decreases. You have the greatest range of options with the smaller rugs.
July 10, 2009
New Technology that Could Reduce Your Gas and Electricity Consumption
Gas and electricity prices have remained steady for a while now but as surely as the seasons change, you can expect utility prices to fluctuate over the coming years. One of the inescapable facts is that gas and electricity supplies will not last indefinitely. The hunt for alternative technologies has been going on for decades but two exciting innovations could provide genuine renewable alternatives that could help reduce our dependency on fossil fuels.
The first innovation is called the Anaconda. Developed by a team of British scientists, Anaconda looks like a long, black rubber tube – because it is a long, black rubber tube! The sea snake is deceptively simple but harnesses the power of wave energy through a clever manipulation of the movement of waves.
The Anaconda lies in the water just below the surface of the water. The black rubber tubing is filled with water with a turbine at one end. As waves roll over the Anaconda, they create a bulge of water within the tubing which is then forced down the length of the tube towards the turbine. With constant wave fluctuations, the bulge gathers kinetic energy which then drives the turbine as the water bulge is pushed through the end of the tube.
The real benefit of the Anaconda is that there are no mechanical parts, so it requires very little maintenance and there are very few things that can go wrong with such a simple system. The rubber material used to make the device is also naturally resistant to erosion which makes it long lasting. Best of all, wave energy is constant and reliable unlike other sources of renewable energy such as wind and solar power, which means the Anaconda provides a realistic alternative to our consumption of gas and electricity.
The second innovation is a power storage system which provides a reliable substitute to back-up power systems. Energy needs to be stored in huge batteries for times of peak use. With conventional batteries though, the efficiency of such storage systems is very low and storing energy costs a lot of money and electricity to power air-conditioning systems which prevent batteries from over-heating.
The Pnu Power is a concept technology being developed which stores energy as compressed air. The system has proved extremely reliable and provides a clean alternative to valve-regulated lead acid batteries. As Pnu Power is not affected by changes in temperature it is much more energy efficient and will reduce dependency on gas and electricity to regulate cool temperatures of power storage systems.
Whilst both technologies are still being developed, they could be in use as early as 2014, diversifying energy consumption away from gas and electricity and into renewable sources.
Seven Tips for Good Garden Care
Proper garden care can seem difficult, but it’s not as hard as it looks. Here are a few general tips for making your garden green and healthy no matter where you live.
Water it right. In general, you should imitate nature by giving your lawn a single long soak per week, rather than spreading your waterings out to shorter sessions each day.
Don’t cut too short. Long grass looks naturally greener—there’s more surface area on each blade, so more green showing. Longer blades keep the sun off the soil, keeping moisture from evaporating as quickly.
Don’t mow in the rain. When it rains, the water forces the blades of grass to bow over—meaning your mower blade won’t get an even cut.
Fertilize your lawn with clippings. Your grass clippings are approximately 10% nitrogen—and that helps your grass grow.
Use the right grass for your climate. The best grass for your lawn depends on where you live.
Feed and reseed at the right times. Reseeding your lawn can replenish it, and most experts recommend homeowners do this once a year. When to reseed depends on your location.
Don’t try to control weeds too much. It isn’t realistic to expect that your lawn will have only one species of grass in it. Getting rid of every single weed you see can lead to over-application of pesticides.
A perfect green carpet of grass doesn’t occur very often in nature—and it’s not easy to get your garden to bow to your will. But with a little effort, you should be able to have a lawn that’s attractive and healthy.
Landscape Gardening
Have you ever stopped and looked at a beautiful building with even more beautiful gardens? Have you ever wondered whether this is a park or a commercial / residential building? And the credit for such eye catching features goes not only to the architecture of the building but also to the surroundings. So what is landscape gardening all about? It is basically a relatively new theory which tries to take care of the Earth’s landscapes in a creative, holistic and sustainable manner. It encompasses arts, sciences and various technical philosophies and practices in order to create a landscape which is in harmony with the surroundings and is appealing to the eye. Landscape gardening is pretty similar to gardening but there lies one major difference between the two of them. Both arts are concerned with the ways in which planting, landform, water, paving and other erecting structures can be done. But whilst gardening deals with private spaces such as parks, private gardens , landscape gardening deals also with unenclosed or public spaces such as town squares, country parks, greenways, golf courses etc.
Landscape gardening requires knowledge and expertise in various fields such as biology, zoology, soil science and plant symbiosis. It is only then that a dry, unusable piece of land can be transformed into a magnificent garden. It is the hard work of the landscape gardener who makes a designer garden which is unique in its own way, has the creativity of the designer, keeps in mind the requirements of the client and is in sync with the environment and surroundings.
If you thought landscaping is done only on the ground, it is time to think again because nowadays, landscape gardens adorn the city’s roofs too. Apart from the obvious landscaping, it helps reduce pollution, reduce storm water run off, increase thermal insulation and life of the roofs.
Whatever and wherever the landscaping is done, there is definitely an edge over the other areas which are not landscaped. Many landscaped buildings have become major tourist attractions. It should be the endeavour of the builder to landscape the area around the structure being constructed. It will go a long way in providing the much needed greenery to this planet apart from being pleasing to the eye.
Hiring A Good Electrician
Hiring a company to do electrical contracting work for your home or business can be a very stressful decision. What if the costs soar half way the job and you can't afford to continue? This article attempts to provide a good step-by-step guide for choosing the right electrician for the job. Just follow the simple steps below and you will be well on your way.
STEP ONE: Get Appropriate Credentials
Electrician services companies working in your home must always be licensed and insured in case of problems. Every electrical worker you consider hiring should be bonded, licensed, and insured. They should be willing to let you know their individual state license number. Also, check to see if they have the appropriate insurance for workers comp and general liability.
TIP: The potential dangers of hiring an uninsured electrical contractor are enormous. What would happen if that acquaintance" of yours who has "watched a lot of tv remodeling shows" gets really injured while under your house or in the crawl space? Well, more often than not, it's you who would be held completely accountable for any injuries that they incurred while on your property.
STEP TWO: Check References
Don't be shy to ask for and check their references! You want to make sure that the company has a good reputation.
STEP THREE: Their Employees
Some of the more reputable electricians insist all of their electricians are regularly background checked and drug tested. This is a good indication that the electrician has your interests in mind before theirs. This process is quite an investment on their part, and it tells you right away that they have invested a great deal in their own employees.
TIP: See if the company is on any "best places to work" lists in your region. A great place to work means that the employees are treated well and respected.
STEP FOUR: Getting a Price Up Front
Take note, you won't get the best price by bidding the job around to multiple companies. Call ones that you are interested in working with, and get a feel for their customer service (a live person answering the telephone is always a good sign!) THEN call only one out to your home to prepare an estimate. Some of electrician companies are offering first time discounts for first customers, and if not may usually try to get your long-term business by cutting the costs of that first job.
TIP: You want to develop a good, long lasting relationship with an trusted electrician. The odds are that you will call them more than once during your time in your home.
STEP FIVE: Knowing you called the right one.
Look out for the following when that electrician comes to your door for the first job:
A good local electrician Always arrives at your door in a sparkling uniform. The top companies insist that their employees carry enough clean uniforms for every new job.
A stellar electricianwill have business cards with their telephone, company name, license number printed somewhere.
A good local electrician will NEVER start a job without getting the appropriate permits. Yes, you can usually get someone to do a job less expensively and faster by not pulling permits, but it puts you and yours at great risk when you do so. What happens if you don't acquire permits and something goes wrong, like an electrical fire? Usually your insurance company will investigate to make sure that the required permits were in place, and, if not, you may not be covered!
A great electrician will always call you back within 24 - hours or less, provide a through written estimate outlining all labor and materials, and put a deadline on the estimate as well.
TIP: What if the project unexpectedly gets out of hand at some point, and through no fault on anyone's part you have to dig into the wallet to get it done. A A great electrician company will stop and provide an written addendum to the original estimate so that you know all new costs before commencing..
A stellar local electrician will always listen to what you want to have done, and then make recommendations based on their expert opinion. There are many things that need to be taken into account for a rewiring job, such as: (total amperage usage, dedicated circuits for computers, high wattage kitchen work lights, vacuum cleaner usage, types of bulbs needed, existing wiring, etc etc)
A stellar local electrician will consider all of the extra things that you might not think about, explain them, and give you options on which direction you want to go.
An excellent electrician company will always wear those sanitary shoe covers when on the project. They also won’t ever leave a mess of dust and debris once they are done.
A stellar electrician company will install parts that are designed for long-term use and wear. Any time you have electrical work done, you should also keep in mind the resale value. Good contractor grade electrical materials will only add to the value of your home/office, and will insure a passing inspection report before you sell.
STEP SIX: Hiring your electrician
Before the project begins that you have a signed an official estimate approved by you and the contractor. Be sure that you have estimated enough time for the work to take place (major electrical projects the evening before a big party is not wise!) Be sure that all correct permits are in hand and posted appropriately.
EXPERT TIP: Don't let price alone determine which company is awarded the project. Trust with a company that you feel comfortable with, has good online references, and has open communication with you about the job. Good communication from an electrician is the best sign that they will do the job right, and that they can be trusted.
We sincerely hope that this article helps to find the right electrician for the project!
