Limestone Tiles – The Most Unique Decoration

by: Jason Colling

Limestone is a sedimentary stone which is commonly used in the UK as a building material. Limestone tiles are imported from worldwide such as India, Israel and Turkey, and are considered to be one of the softest stone tiles.

Limestone tiles come in many different colors and designs. Usually, the colors available are like earthy tones of greens, blues, greys, creams, beiges and dark browns. It is particularly a popular stone tile specially for bathroom areas.

Further, if you want durable kitchen flooring, then you must consider limestone flooring. Limestone tiles are available in many different patterns and pale, neutral colors, and thus make a great choice for modern kitchen flooring and design. The main reason that why they are being considered by many as the preferred tile material is because they provide hardness, low porosity and are very attractive. The limestone is very durable and comes with oil resistant properties.

In order to prevent from staining and to maintain its look, it is very important that limestone should be properly sealed.

Limestone kitchen floor tiles come in many colours, such as black, gray, white, yellow, and brown.

When we look for pure limestone, it is white or off-white, as it has impurities such as clay, sand, iron oxide, or other materials, limestone tends to exhibit different colors. There are also texture variations because limestone tiles vary in shade and surface appearance.

You would be astonished to know that limestone is very soft. However, certain different types of hard and dense limes stone also exist. That’s why limestone is considered to be the best choice for kitchen flooring.

Several landmarks around the world are made up of limestone tiles. North America and Europe have used this stone for creating various architectures and buildings. Several public buildings and train stations, banks and other structures built in the early 20th and late 19th centuries were made up of limestone.

It is very commonly used in architecture across the world in modern construction in Europe and North America and in many older landmarks such as the great pyramids in Egypt which are made entirely from Limestone.

Granite Worktops - Gives a beauty to your Kitchen

by: Jason Colling

Granite worktops have become the kitchen worktop of everybody's choice. They are very hard wearing, heat resistant, and can be cut into any shape desired and look absolutely stunning.

Nowadays granite worktops are being used in various places like home or offices, but the most commonly used is for kitchen surfaces. Worktops are basically manufactured from different materials like wood, laminate, marble, granite and others. Granite worktops come with different price ranges varying from reasonable to very expensive ones. This all depends upon the person that how much he is willing to spend. The primary reason why granite is being used for the worktops is due to its durability, heat resistance, and low maintenance. It is a very durable material which can last for very long without much care required from the user. The best thing about the granite is that you can easily clean the surface with a soft damp cloth. Its worktops are usually available in many different colors and patterns.

The various colors available are black, Grey, blue, red. However, the more attractive pattern you look for, the more you will have to pay. Before you go out for buying the granite, you should first match it with your cabinets and shelves.

Everything has its own advantages and as well as disadvantages and the same goes with granite worktops. There are few disadvantages of using them, which you should be aware of before investing in them. Granite is easily stained and tricky to install.

Also, if you are going to use the granite worktop in the kitchen you should take care that there should not be more of spilling, knife cuts, and should always keep the hot pans away from the granite to avoid much damage to the surface. However, these disadvantages can be easily overcome, if you do the right planning which can be done by selecting a cost efficient granite pattern. To overcome the problem of staining you can select a darker color and pattern and whenever you are about to install the granite, you should always rely on the specialists.

Things to keep in mind while buying granite over the Internet:

There are a few things that you should always keep in mind while buying granite over the internet:

Usually, people think that all granite worktrops are same which is not at all true .

Usually, some granites sold over the internet may carry the same name as those stones seen in granite showrooms, but certainly they are not of the same brand, so it is advisable to do some research before buying .

You should always make sure that from the brand which you are buying is actually genuine.

Taking Care of Your Memory Foam Topper

by: Bryan Williams

“Topper”, as its name tells all, is something you can put on your existing mattress and enjoy a sound sleep leaving you all revitalized in the morning. It’s a kind of convertible option for your bed, by changing it into something that provides pressure relief, prevents from morning soreness, lessens tossing and turning at night, and relieve body aches. In short, giving you all that it takes to get a decent night’s sleep a mattress topper is a vital item in your bedroom.re mattress.

If you want to make a difference to your sleep with memory foam mattress ut your pockets do not allow you to buy one, or you are not sure whether it’ll be worth the cost, there is no reason for you to sulk yet. You still have an option of memory foam topper offering you the same comfort, pressure relief, and durability of the entire mattress.

Quality products come expensive; however a topper may give you the choice to get quality at an affordable rate. Toppers are made of 100% viscoelastic memory foam and are available in 2 to 4 inch thick models. They certainly improve your bedding, without having to bear the expense of a new bed.

Memory foam topper may be a good alternative for you as it works exactly the same way a full memory foam mattress works, and similarly deserves equivalent care as a mattress needs. Taking care of your memory foam topper is extremely necessary to increase your topper’s durability and performance. Here are the things you should keep in mind:

• Memory foam topper is usually delivered in a standard shipping box and is compressed in order to make the release easy as well as inexpensive.

• The compressed foam products are sealed inside a plastic bag to prevent from further damage, therefore take special care while ripping up the plastic covering so you don’t end up damaging your foam.

• Don’t start using the memory foam topper as soon as you get it out of the packing, as due to being compressed it’ll take some time to adjust with the surroundings temperature. It is highly advisable to let the topper become accustomed with the room temperature and reach its normal shape before you actually start using it.

• If you want to clean your topper, simply wash it with hand, Luke warm water and a mild laundry detergent. Do not machine wash or dry!

• Keep your topper at a clean place when not being used. This will prolong its comfort and make it long lasting.

These simple tips will help increase your toppers life and give you a fulfilling sleep for a longer period of time. Visit http://www.memoryfoamexpress.co.uk for all kinds of memory foam products including mattresses, pillows, toppers, bed covers etc. at the most affordable rates.

How To Fit Your Own Laminate Flooring Step By Step

by: Chriss Tyrrell

Installation preparations :

1.1 - Acclimatisation of the panels; Before starting the installation the flooring has to be brought into the room where it will be installed or in a room with the same climate condition. The acclimatisation will be carried out as following: in sealed unopened boxes for a time period of at least 24 hours flat laying with at least 50 cm distance to the walls at a room temperature of at least 18°C at a floor surface temperature of a minimum of 15°C at a relative humidity between 40% and 65%

1.2 - Installation direction; flooring looks its best when the flooring panels are installed parallel to the light coming in through the windows. The only required installation direction is if you install flooring over hardwood flooring boards. In this case you have to install the flooring at a 90 degree angle to the existing hardwood flooring boards or apply a hardboard or plywood sub floor.

1.3 Planning the first row; After determining the best layout of the flooring and the starting wall, measure the width of the room and divide it by the width of the flooring panels to determine the number of rows and the width of the last row. If the last row is determined to be less than 60mm wide, it should be adjusted by cutting the first row lengthwise.

1.4 Planning of expansion gaps; Since laminate flooring is made of organic materials, it is subject to certain movement behaviours (shrinkage/expansion) due to changes in climate conditions. It is necessary to leave gaps of 10mm for the expansion in all parts of the structure i.e. walls, doorframes, stairs, around pipes.

1.5 Planning of transition mouldings; through the shrinkage and expansion behaviour of the flooring you have to install transition mouldings in the following areas: at all door throughways at all passageways single room length and/or with more than 10 m (33 ft)

The Installation Process:

Check all panels for possible damages/defects. Ensure you understand the difference between the tongue and the groove on the panel. Begin installing the first row from the left-hand corner of the room with both tongue sides of the panels pointing towards the wall. Place spacers between the edge of the flooring panels and the wall to provide the correct space for expansion.

Connect the second panel to the first by indirectly tapped using a hammer and push block, thereby joining the boards’ headers. Mark the last panel in the first row to the required length (place tongue to tongue) and cut. Start the second row with the off cut from the last panel of the first row. Always make sure the off cut is at least 500 mm long, if not then cut another piece which is greater than 500mm long. Start all subsequent rows with the off cut piece from the previous row. Connect the second row to the first by placing the interlocking end of the new panel at an angle to the previously installed panel and then lower it into a horizontal position to lock then indirectly tapped using a hammer and push block, thereby joining the boards’ headers.

Attention! A floor is considered level if the deviation height is less than 2mm over a distance of 2.5 linear metres. Deviations above this level must be levelled out before laying the underlay.

Expansion gaps and expected movement with laminate floors It’s imperative all floors must have an expansion gap of 10mm around the entire perimeter of the floor and all fixed points within the area of installation. Without this precaution the floor will move and have nowhere too go. This can cause extreme levels of pressure pushing upward and outwards, thus lifting the flooring.

Top 5 Reasons Why Everyone Should Own a Duvet Cover Set

by: Linda Aviles

Not really sure yet if you want to buy a duvet cover set or not, well not to worry, I'm here to tell you some fascinating reasons why everyone should go out and buy a duvet cover set right away!

5.) Excellent for those hot summer nights and cozy for the cold winter. Duvet covers are light enough to use alone for those really hot nights when you really need to snuggle on to somethimg that will not make you break out into a sweat. And on those cold nights, just insert a duvet or comforter to get that extra snuggle and warmth.

4.) Excellent for hiding stains. How is this possible you ask, well the great thing about duvet covers is that there reversible, so if you for any reason haven't washed off that big stain you have on the cover and someone suddenly showed up to visit and wanted to check out your bedroom, make the person look away, and flip the cover over and vuala, brand new bedding once again.

3.) Kid and Pet proof. Yes lady's and gentlemen, duvet cover sets are kid and pet proof because the good thing about duvet covers is that the majority of them are washable. This is good because no more yankng out your hair when little Timmy places his muddy shoes on the bed or no more having to push poor little FiFi off the bed. Just take out whatever is in the cover, if it's either a comforter, duvet, blanket and place the comforter cover in the washer and problem solved.

2.) Great for the eyes. These beautiful covers come in all different colors and designs. Whether you like the sofistication of a floral duvet cover, the modern look of a striped duvet cover, the uniqueness of polka dot, etc. either one would look great as long as it's has good quality and style. Bonus: Will draw many compliments if you choose the right colors.

And the number one reason for why you should buy a duvet cover set is....

1.) Save, save and save some more. Having this bedding set will save you some money. Have you Spent tons of money on comforters which you don't really use any more? Do not throw them away, place them in a duvet/comforter cover. Also like I have explaind in reason number 4, they are reversible, you can change the look of your room in a instant without having to buy new bedding. Oh one more thing, no need to spend tons of money dry cleaning!

There you have it, just some of the reasons why you should get smart and buy yourself a brand new cover set unless you like spending money and having a dull bedroom. Thanks for reading.

Looking for a high duvet covers sets at a great price to get you quickly started with your redecorating, I highly recommend going online to http://shop.multishopstop.com/. They have a beautiful collection of floral duvet covers to make your bedroom an absolute dream come true.

The Eminences of the Teak Wood Outdoor Furniture

by: Mbah Surip

As we could see in the stores, there are many kinds of furniture that we could get in the stores. It would depend on us what kind of furniture that we need. Perhaps, we have built the new house; surely we would need to add some furniture sets inside the new house. But definitely, we would need to determine the perfect kind of furniture that we would use to the house. We would need to fill each room with some furniture. We need to determine what kind of room’s style that we want it to be. That would determine the kind of furniture that we are going to use. We would need to pick the perfect furniture that has the match pattern to the room. We need to determine the kind of room decoration to mix and match it with the furniture. If we want the kind of classical house, surely we would need to add some classical furniture. Surely, this isn’t only applied for the interior furniture but it’s also applied to the garden furniture.

When we chose the classical types of the house’s pattern, we must determine the perfect classical furniture that we are going to get for the house. For some people, they would rather choose the furniture that was made from woods than some furniture that was made from other materials such as the steel or the stainless steel. For some people, they said that the wood gives such different atmosphere to the rooms, and the classical atmosphere looks really excellent with the furniture that was made by wood. Surely, when they have decided to put some wood furniture sets for the house, they would also want the whole furniture sets of the house to be all wooden. This is also applied to the garden furniture. But considering that the garden must be the kind of outdoor garden, they couldn’t just pick any kinds of wood furniture. IT would be so unpractical if you have to move the garden furniture every time the rain was come. That would be a silly activity to be done.

So what kind of woods that would handle the rain and the sun perfectly? Well, obviously you have to choose the kind of garden furniture that was made by the teak wood. The teak wood has been well known that has so many eminences if we compare with the other kinds of woods. The teak wood has been well known as a long lasting durable wood to be use to make the furniture. The teak wood could handle any kinds of extreme weather conditions might happen to the neighborhood. The rain and the sun completely don’t affect the teak wood furniture at all. There are still some other kinds of eminences that the teak wood has such as the heaviness, and the power to handle the termites. This is the best material to be use to make the garden furniture. If you want to have the perfect wood outdoor furniture, this teak wood furniture would be the perfect option for you.

As a teak outdoor furniture exporter, http://www.teakgardenindonesia.com/ has commitment to serve all our customers the best. All products made from Teak plantation managed by PT. PERHUTANI, a government’s company who manage teak plantation in Indonesia.

Ever Wonder Why The Price Of Heating Oil Fluctuates?

by: Nat Brown

Home heating oils are almost a must for all homes. Heating oil is what we use to heat our homes during the freezing winter season. The price of heating oil fluctuates and we are already used to it. But do you know why the price does fluctuate?

Why is heating oil very important? Heating oil is used both for residential and commercial. A large percentage of homes and commercial establishments use heating oil. The demand for heating oil is very large that is why even if the price is high, people still buy it. What some people do is buy heating oil well in advance for the winter season. For instance, some of them fill up their oil storage tanks while the price of the heating oil is still low. Good for those with large storage tanks. But those with regular size storage tanks, they have to deal with the fluctuating heating oil price!

Heating Oil Sources And Price Fluctuation

There are two basic sources of heating oils: domestic or imports. Domestic means coming from local refineries while imports mean coming from other foreign countries. When domestic refineries aren’t able to supply the demands for oil in the areas, they will get imports from foreign refineries.

It should be noted that heating oils are actually part of the distillate fuel oil group. This means that when domestic refineries produce heating oil, they are also producing other petroleum products. This affects the cost of the heating oil during winter season. The demand for heating oil is very high but the demand for other petroleum products is not. So when the refinery produce heating oil during winter season, they have to add up the cost lost in the other petroleum products, thus, making the price of the heating oil a little higher.

The seasonal demand for heating oil is another factor in the fluctuating price. When the demand is very high, oil companies can make their price high knowing that customers will still buy. Also you should consider the cost of the crude oil as it vastly affects the price of the heating oil. Crude oil is a major factor in heating oil. When the price of the crude oil goes up so does the price of the heating oil.

So don’t be surprised to see the price of the heating oil change from time to time. The change in price is inevitable. It is not just something that oil companies want to do. It is actually triggered by some factors like crude oil, heating oil source and demand among many others.

Amazing Ways - Using Isopropyl Alcohol For Bed Bugs

by: Nathan Shepard

Of all the beasties i have had to cope with, Bedbugs have got to be the most sickening. I hate the little blighters! There are several species of Bedbug but this article will deal with the Common Bedbug ( Cimex lectularius ), as it's the most plentiful, being found in most temperate climates around the world.

The Common Bedbug feeds off human blood and doesn't discriminate between blood groups. The adult has a flat reddish-brown oval body and measures roughly 4-5mm in length. During feeding, their abdomen fills up with blood and expands leaving the bug resembling an apple seed with legs.

Bedbugs are even less widespread than they used to be but have been making a little bit of a comeback recently. While big infestations may still happen, it is more customary to cope with infestations of tiny numbers of bugs. Bedbugs can enter the home via used beds, sofas and curtains and can even be transferred in luggage after visiting hotels, guesthouses, and so on.

A revealing Bedbug bite is a string of bites close together and blood spots on the bed sheet. The Bedbug doesn't actually bite, as it doesn't posses biting mouthparts, more exactly it uses two hollow tubes and injects its victim with an analgesic and an anticoagulant. This means that the victim is unaware of the bite until sometime later with the onset of serious itchiness. Bites frequently happen in a small row. Some will suffer from a hard sore, white in colour with a reddish swelling and secondary infection is always a risk with folks scratching the itch. Revealing signs of Bedbug activity are tiny spots of blood on your sheets.

In contrast to popular misconception, the cleanliness of your house has no impact on whether or not you are in peril from a Bedbug infestation. Should Bedbugs find their way into your residence, they will look for shelter often in the stitching of mattresses, settees and curtains. Openings behind wallpaper and skirting boards could also harbor bugs. Regular vacuuming of these locations can remove the tiny suckers. An inexpensive anti-bug barrier can be built by wrapping double-sided sticky tape around each leg of the bed.

Remove all bedding and clean up it by washing on a hot wash ( fifty Centigrade or 120 Fahrenheit ). You can deal with the mattress with a portable steam cleaner that are to be had from many retailers. If you have got a divan bed, be certain to go over the base completely with the steamer. A stiff brush is handy for dislodging any eggs and shed skins from seams. If you can dismantle your bed frame, do so, as this can show up any hiding bugs. So use this as an excuse to carry out a severe spring-cleaning of your room. Seal any cracks and holes in the fabric of the room with an acceptable sealant - a caulking gun and silicon gel is good for this reason.

So what about the pros ' should you just take the simple route and pay for them to solve your problem? Well if you do, they will come along and tell you to strip the bed so they can start using isopropyl alcohol for bed bugs to the mattress and bed frame / divan base. If they're intensive and know their business, they should also look for possible harbourage across the room and treat these areas too. You are still going to need to deal with sanitizing your bedding, so you must weigh up whether you would like to pay for the spray or the cost of a steam cleaner.

Tips on Adding a Family Room Addition to your House

by: Nazim Nice

As families expand, so do their spatial needs. Suddenly a house that seemed adequately sized for two or three may feel tight when the family increases in size. If a home already has enough bedrooms, a family room addition is often a useful addition to increase the amount of space in a home and increase the functionality.

Where an addition is placed on a house will vary depending on the layout of the home and actual site conditions. If there is space on the site that allows for a family room addition on the main level, I often look for a location near the kitchen. If there is no space on the site, we'll either look at a location such as in an unfinished basement, or consider adding onto a second story. One recent trend is locating a family space adjacent to bedrooms, especially if the space is located adjacent to kid's bedrooms. This family room space often becomes the kid's 'hang out space'.

Often a family room plays many roles, so it's important to design the room to allow for the functions you need. Here are some things to consider:

1.) While it's a luxury to have a separate media room, often the space or funds are not available. Consider designing the family room to accommodate movie night by incorporating room darkening black-out shades and the necessary electronic equipment and speakers.

2.) If you often need a place for extra guests to sleep, a family room can be converted easily to a sleeping area if you incorporate the right furniture pieces. A sleeper sofa can comfortably sleep two. If additional sleeping space, or individual beds are desired for activities like kid's sleepovers, then look for furniture such as ottomans and chairs that fold out to single beds. If you have the space, you may also be able to incorporate a day bed. For additional sleeping, look for a day bed with a trundle below.

3.) One of the complaints we frequently hear about homes is that the dining room is too small for big family dinners. But when asked how often people entertain large groups, it is usually once or twice a year. A family room addition can help solve this problem if space is designed in for a large table.

4.) A oversized table is also useful in a family room because inevitably kids will end up doing their homework where the family gathers. A large table is a perfect multipurpose addition to the family room. To save space, it can even be placed with an end against a wall, and pulled out when additional seating is needed.

Once you've identified all the necessary functions that the new family room needs to accommodate, you'll want to start thinking about details such as fireplaces, the TVlocation, and furniture layouts. The primary issue with incorporating a fireplace in a family room is that it competes for the same space as the TV. There are many ways to solve this problem, with the obvious one being placing the television above the fireplace. Be careful with this solution, though, as it can lead to an uncomfortably high viewing angle. Often incorporating a television that is adjacent to the fireplace, or arranging a seating group that is at right angles where one side faces a television and the other side faces a fireplace can solve this issue.

When possible we like to expand the family room addition to the outside by adding French doors or sliding doors. A deck or patio outside a family room can help make a smaller space feel larger, and in warmer weather the space can open up to the outside.

A well designed family room can serve many purposes if well thought through in the planning stages. This often means thinking ahead and planning the type of furniture, the size and location of the television, and the location of the fireplace. But once you determine all the pieces of the puzzle, they can be assembled into an artful solution that integrates into the existing house and provides a new space that will serve your family well for many years in the future.

How To Protect Your Property

by: neil maycock

Burglars are opportunists. So being aware of how vulnerable your property may be can decrease the chances of an intruder. In the following article we will discuss how to protect your property.

First of all did you know that a third of all burglars access properties through windows. Securing these is vital. All windows should be checked, even porch or pantry windows. If a human head can fit through it, then it needs to be secure.

Securing these windows is relatively straight forward depending on the glass and frame structure. The most secure glass is laminated glass which is harder to break. However attaching a window lock has the most benefits. no.1)It enhances the strength of the lock, making it almost impossible to open without a key. no.2)The opportunist would be deterred as even if they break the glass, they still have to unlock the window.

Often the window locks come with special keys. It is often tempting to leave these keys in easy to reach places, however it is recommended to keep these out of sight. When fitting locks to PVC windows make sure that you contact the manufacturer, this may invalidate the warranty if not carried out correctly.

Doors

While a third of all burglars enter the property through the window, two thirds enter through doors. If your door does not have a window or a means of checking who is there, it could be advisable to install a door viewer. A chain can add extra security during the day, but be aware that this may be a part of an exit strategy in case of fire. While it is always a good idea to keep keys out of sight, maker sure you know exactly where they are.

Checking that the frames and doors are in good condition, can help keep out a persistent intruder. Also be aware of any vulnerable parts such as glass panels.

It is sometimes much easier to keep keys in the doors for ease of access, however to an opportunist this an open invitation to enter your property. In fact most people keep a variety of keys with their door keys such as ; office keys, garage keys and car keys. This is a prize to any intruder. Now they have access to your house, your office and car.

Security Lights – Fitting security lights that are activated by somebody walking in front your property of within a designated area, can help protect you property at night. These are often built on passive infrared technology.

Vacation – When going away on holiday there a few precautions you can take to help improve the security of your property. Making your neighbors aware that you will be away, will make sure that you have somebody keeping watch for an strange visitors.

Buying a dimmer switch is also another great idea. These can turn on or off, depending on the time you allocate on the switch. A house sitter is also a good idea. They can open and close your curtains and make the property look as though it is still occupied.

In summary, the above points are not made to cause panic or fear. The truth is these are just precautions that we can take to improve the security of our properties. With the standard of living so high, we work hard for our possessions, it is only fair that we should want to protect them.

Ice Makers as a Functional Kitchen Tool

By: David H. Urmann

We love ice on our beverages to a soothing cold drink amidst the summer heat. Use ice makers to make it very easy.

Ice makers are very useful kitchen appliance that makes it very easy to freeze water and turn it into ice. Ice is used in different ways. It could turn any beverage into a soothing cold drink to quench your thirst. It is used to make cold compresses to alleviate swelling pains.

This appliance is normally seen in healthcares, convenience stores, recreation centers, groceries and restaurants. It could also be for personal use at home. It comes very handy because one would not need to buy ice outside anymore every time it is needed.

There are several things to consider in your purchase. You are dealing mainly with water in ice production so get a stainless steel material to prevent rusting. Consider the volume capacity, how much it could produce in one instance.

Ice makers come in many different types. The demand is getting higher when summertime is approaching. Some popular units are the commercial V/S Home Ice Makers, Indoor/Outdoor Ice Makers, Portable Ice Makers, Built-in Ice Maker, under the counter Ice Makers, and the Dry Ice Makers. The leading brands are Danby, Sunpentown, Avanti, Scotsman, Whirlpool, Viking, GE and U-line.

People trust these brands for quality makes. It features huge capacity of storage bin up to 25lbs of clear ice, produces 50lbs of ice or more in just 24 hours of time, electronic cleaning cycle, hidden easy way controls, stainless steel and black finish, handy ice scoop, smooth and reversible door, drop – down doors and built in freestanding installation.

The portable ice maker is compact and very easy to use. It is a wonderful device to put in your kitchen. It can be placed anywhere since it does not need plumbing. It is stylish and easy to operate. You can make 3 sizes of ice and produces many ice cubes in just six minutes. It is best for backyard and summertime parties, or outdoor barbeque gatherings.

One of the most improved portable varieties is the new Danby White Portable Ice Maker. It is a compact ice maker best for home use. It can make 30lbs of ice in a day, with varied sizes from small, medium and large ice cubes. It features 1 gallon of reserve water, detachable ice basket, LCD display, easy to operate and with self clean series.

Commercial ice makers are more for restaurants and such establishments. It is very durable that it could last for about 7 to 10 years. It produces large amounts of ice cubes and crushed ice for commercial industries, supermarkets, hotels, hospitals, restaurants, groceries, convenient stores, mini stop, bars and cafes. Demand of ice cubes from commercial ice maker is quite big.

Scotsman produces some of the best commercial ice makers mostly seen in the hotels, convenient stores, gas stations, hospitals and schools. Their ice maker machines are totally energy – efficient, easy to clean and easy to operate with self monitoring.

Built-in ice makers are fixed at a certain spot. It is installed by a plumber and needs permanent water line and drain line. It store more ice cubes and keeps it frozen for a longer time. It meets the ADA standards and it can easily used by handicapped persons. They also accept custom design and door panels that bests suit in their customer’s desire.

When buying for ice maker whether portable, built -in or commercial ice maker always keep in mind the greater value it can give and the specifications of its production.

Types of Barbecue Grilling

By: David H. Urmann

Everyone loves grilled barbecues. It is healthy and very delicious. It could be prepared in different ways.

We love grilled foods. It is a healthier choice because it does not use oil in cooking, and the meat is tastier and juicier. We grill fish, meat, poultry, seafood, and vegetables but the favorite of most people is barbeque. We prepare it for our everyday meals, while having picnics or small gatherings, or organizing a party.

The common barbecue we know are placed in sticks, but it could just be any meat smoked until tender and then served to guests. These are a favorite almost anywhere but it varies slightly per country. For example, there is Brazil and Korea that cook barbecues in their own unique ways.

The Brazilian barbeque is a grilled food done by a distinctive Churrasco technique. Any kind of meat may be used in the preparation, like chicken, pork or beef. The prepared meat is cooked in direct flame. It is seasoned sparingly to let the natural flavors of the meat stand out.

The main seasoning is what they called the marine salt famous in Brazil. While the meat is being cooked, it is rotated constantly which preserves the juices and flavors of the meat. The usual variety is served with rice, farofa and native drinks. Farofa is famous seasoned manioc flour that is well known in Brazil.

According to history, there were Brazilians who brought cattle-raising in the South America. This started their love for barbecues which they call churrasco. It became a traditional staple food of the Brazilians especially the gaúchos or cowboys. They made their Churrascos very fashionable.

It is very common now to see many restaurants in Brazil that offer these as their specialty. People called these restaurants as the churrascaria de rodízio. Waiters go around to offer portions or slices of Brazilian barbeque on the plate of their customers. The popular Churrascarias are Esplanada Grill and Porcão in Ipanema, Giuseppe Grill in Leblon and Porcão in Parque do Flamengo. Even the vegetarians are offered with the salad buffets that are available in these places. A churrasco knife is made specifically for this type of food used in cutting the churrasco every time they prepare it for meals.

Korean Barbeque is a popular family meal in Korea. This consists of all types of meat especially beef, chicken and pork. Koreans have their own method of grilling. They marinate the meat with delicious sauces from different ingredients mixed with fruit juices. In the Korean restaurants, they always provide gas or charcoal grills on diner’s table where diners do their own grilling on the table. The grilling area is usually located at the center of the table.

Koran barbecue has a lot of varieties. Some meats are marinated before grilling, while others are grilled as is. The most popular variety is the one they call the galbi. It is barbecue made of marinated beef short ribs. The locals just love it but but the dish is popular worldwide too. This is served in full meal with rice, miso soup and panchan. Panchan is a very spicy side dish served as an appetizer.

In America, barbecues are scant of seasonings, and the meat is grilled in large chunks. Most of them want it semi-cooked only, just to tenderize the meat. They want it to be juicy in every slice. They would top it with gravy, served with potatoes and wine.

Home Furniture - The Evolution of Home Furnishing

By: Niall Roche

It's rarely noticed but furniture has gone through it's own transformation over the last few decades. There's not a lot of super whizz bang technology involved. Nope. These changes have just made your furniture more comfortable, environmentally friendly and easier on your butt! Without the developments in cushions and support technology the world would just me a more painful place full stop.

Ever heard of the trustworthy storage Ottoman? It’s a charming addition to any living room space. It’s a fuss-free type of furniture that’s not a must for the style-conscious but it’s actually a heavy duty addition to your living room to organize stuff that would otherwise be lying around. Some of designs of the storage ottoman have covers that you can turn over to show a cup holder and just enough space for a plate. If you’re the typical couch potato who likes spending dinner in front of the TV, then the storage Ottoman allows you to get things organized minus those television trays! It’s the next best thing to having a best friend!

Did I mention television trays? That’s because we’re not done talking about it yet. Now I’m sure you’ve had the same problem with this kind of furniture too, because it has this unspoken hatred for couches! They never pull up to couches without a Herculean effort on your part, right? If you’re even luckier, it will get bumped at, and your dinner, fresh from the microwave goes flying all over your brand new carpet! Well now, TV lovers have reason to rejoice because this living room legacy is now installed with plastic legs that glide beneath the couch without a hitch! So you don’t have to share that soda with your living room rug! Don’t you wish this was invented earlier? Now spill-free TV times are something only your kids can totally appreciate…

Ever returned from the office with your back feeling like it was a hundred pounds heavier? I’m sure you’d give anything for a day at the spa. Too bad you haven’t got the time to spare! What if I told you that massaging chairs are all the rage these days? These are comparably more affordable than an actual home service from a masseuse or a spa session. All you have to do is to sit back, and sleep your stress away. If your budget is a bit limited, you can also purchase chair pads you can affix on your favorite chair at home! Meet your new masseuse, and look she’s clad in leather too!

Last and by no means least is the slipcover. This simple item is not usually considered an item of furnishing but it's something that most couches can't live without. Slipcovers prevent so much wear-and-tear on couches and help them blend in with any change in your interior décor. The fact that they're washable means you won't live in constant fear of your kids spilling juice or rubbing chocolate all over them. You can let your kids be kids without the risk of them destroying that new sofa of yours.

So as you can see furniture and furniture accessories have made a lot of progress over the last few decades - I'm sure you'd agree?

Indoor Lighting

By: Tim Torbs

Knowing different types of indoor lighting is key to understanding how to correctly light a room. The purpose of lighting is to find a way to illuminate indoor areas as well as look pleasing to the eye. Light sources can come from different artificial sources such as lamps, chandeliers and ceiling lights. Natural lighting can come through windows and skylights. Proper indoor lighting requires coordination between your natural and artificial sources.

Artificial lighting that comes from various indoor lighting sources will be the main focus of this article. Lighting fixtures can come in many forms. Chandeliers are a very popular source of lighting that is used indoors. Chandeliers hang from the ceiling. They are often used as a centerpiece in a large or medium sized room. Chandeliers normally contain more than one light and come in a variety of styles and sizes. Some chandeliers may only contain two or three lights while others have many more. Styles such as transition and tradition are common.

Other forms of indoor lighting include lamps and close to ceiling lights. Lamps come in many forms when used indoor. Table lamps are a very common way of lighting rooms of all sizes from small to large. Table lamps normally only have one or two light bulbs. Lamps are a good way to add light to any room with minimal installation needed. Lamps, specifically table, also come in different styles and sizes. Popular lamp finishes are bronze, painted and black. Another popular form of indoor lighting is close to ceiling lighting. Close to ceiling lights are typically mounted up against the ceiling however some hang lower or farther away from the ceiling than others. This form of lighting typically involves a fixture and glass cover. These lights normally have one bright bulb but may have more.

Pendants vary is size and complexity but on the most part very simple. Pendants are another good choice for indoor lighting for your home. A pendant is often times only one light which hangs down from the ceiling. Most pendants are long and thin in size. Some indoor pendants are more elaborate and may resemble small chandeliers but most are minimal in design often only comprised of a rod which hangs down and a light casing. Many chandeliers have more pieces even if they are the same general size. Pendants generally provide targeted spot lighting. Pendants are useful due to the fact that a spot can be found in any room from bath rooms and foyers to bed rooms and kitchens.

After reviewing many different forms of indoor lighting it is important to remember that you should consider what type of lighting source is right for you. Chandeliers, table lamps and ceiling lights are all good choices. You can decide to allow more or less light into your home through artificial lighting sources. In addition, even more types of indoor lighting is are available such as bath and vanity, ceiling medallions, fluorescents lights, island and billiard lights and many more.

Fire Pits : Sit and Relax

By: Susan Amez

Fire Pits: Warming the Night

During old times, fire pits are precisely merely a large hole in the ground with bricks set on its bounds and logs for people to sit on. This is a common situation particularly in rural arenas where you see people circled round the fire pit narrating wild stories or just heeding to the chirping of the crickets while crunching hotdogs and melting marshmallows in the fire.

Fire Pits Today

Nowadays, fire pits are viewed as furniture that are available in so many works, patterns, and modes. Although people notwithstanding sit around them with the story telling and roasting of marshmallows and wieners, the fire pit nowadays is a more controlled scheme. They are no longer made up of a dug hole, but alternatively, they are broadly made up of a metal pit with a wooden table in the middle, sitting off the ground. Living in the city signifies that there are not numerous larger open spaces wherein pits can be dug. Even the yards have specific space. The obtainable fire pits now are easily handled where it can be just tuck away after an evening of barbecue.

A Masterly Construction

Choosing fire pit patterns to operate well with a garden setting can be reached. The pits can be movable, as in the case of those obtainable in the market, while there are some people who would choose it to be a irreversible construction that are bricked or cemented in place. Whatever root that is selected to build or purchase a fire pit, one familiar matter persists, the small fire that burns in the yard sets a very relaxing mood. The dim ambiance forms the people approximately sense the warmness of the night and coolness of the air. Fire pits can be thought a component of an evening amusement together with chatting with friends and reminiscing good old days. It is in fact the commonest mode to entertain guests who may see the patio more tantalizing and reassuring.

Sit and Relax

Some arenas can have an clean weather where sitting out can assist relax up tension and anxieties. During ice-cold nights, when there is a vivid sky and there are no more bugs to irritate you, firing up up a fire pit and igniting the deck or patio is the unexcelled matter to do. There is no necessitate to celebrate a cool evening to dampen the flavour of an exhilarating activity. By only staring at the stars, the sky and the fire can lift up one’s mood. Whether you will have a small backyard party or observe it a more cozy evening, fire pits can by all odds contribute to the atmosphere.

If you are awaiting for the unexcelled fire pits online, then check out the Seasonal Home Concepts, the site where you can acquire superior outdoor necessities suited for the homes. The store has a motley of fire pits with various vogues and patterns to opt from for you to take home. Home Seasonal Concepts have been the major store supplying home necessities and have yielded a wide market since the 1960s.

Designing Garden Ponds

By: Joel Stephens

The design of ponds, or garden ponds as they are often called, can seem a little bit daunting at first. A myriad of questions can arise that may confuse or discourage a homeowner from even beginning the project. How big should the pond be? Should it be a garden pond, a koi pond or a swimming pond? Can I implement the features I want? Even though the "pros" would like you to think the answers to these and other questions are worth paying them hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars, I am here to tell you that life is not that hard. A garden pond is not only one of the simpler things to install within a landscape, it is also one of the most rewarding. If you can answer these questions about your dreams for your pond, you will be well on your way to enjoying the pearl of your outdoor environment!

The first, and most important, question you must ask yourself is "What is the purpose of this garden pond?" Every Pond must be there for a reason. These don't have to be earth-shattering motivations, but we must understand that the pond exists to fill a need in our lives. What is that need for you? Do you desire the ambience that a garden pond can create, with its bubbling fountains and gentle splashing of cascading water? Or maybe you want to see birds drinking from your garden pond and see the fish swimming around the base of the lily pads. If you're like me, your pond should be deep enough to give you a place to cool off in the hot summer sun, while also tickling your ears! Whatever your reasons for creating a pond, make sure that they are truly YOUR reasons. You don't want to go through all the work of building a retreat, only to not take proper pleasure from it!

The second question you need to answer is "What type of pond will fill this need?" There are 3 main types of ponds to choose from. The first (and most popular) pond is called a Water Garden. A water garden is a pond created to support both plant and animal life. It can be fairly small, to accommodate small spaces, and should have fish that do not grow too large. The second type of pond is the Koi Pond. Koi Ponds are much larger than a standard Water Garden simply because Koi fish tend to grow quite large. Koi Ponds can also only sustain certain types of flora because Koi fish love to nibble on plants! The third type of pond to choose from is the Swimming Pond, my favorite! The Swimming Pond's main defining attribute is its ability to accommodate full immersion, with a depth capable of cooling off even the hottest of homeowners. Some of you may be thinking of combining the Koi Pond with the Swimming Pond into a hybrid of sorts, and just for the record, I don't recommend it! Koi fish like tranquility and the shock of a swimming buddy may be a bit too much for them. They may also disappear into a depth that makes them difficult to see. Who wants a Koi pond if you can't see the Koi fish?

The final question is concerning the features of your garden pond. What do you want to see in your landscape? Do you love the look of water spilling over the edge of a fall? Maybe you're into the gentle sounds of streams feeding into your pond with a soothing steadiness found only in nature! What about the strength and longevity of a properly placed boulder here and there? No matter what features you choose, the most important factor to consider at this stage is cost! What is your overall budget? Try to stick to that as closely as possible. The worst feeling in the world is a pond project that is meant to bring peace and serenity, halted by a lack of funds!

Garden Ponds can be a welcome addition to any outdoor space! With a little time, and some honest answers to simple questions, anyone can create a pond that fills their space with the exact ambience that they desire. Just remember, the best person to design your garden pond is YOU (because you have to live with it)!

Turn Your Dining Table Into A Masterpiece With The Perfect Dining Set

by: Martha Mountjoy

Whether you are hosting an elegant dinner party, or having the traditional family Christmas lunch, any meal can be elevated to a truly memorable event when it is served in a beautiful environment complete with a stylish dining set. After all, your guests will love sitting around your dining table in an ambiance of style and comfort. Moreover, serving your next gastronomical delight on a tastefully appointed dining set will do justice to the time and effort you put into making the meal.

Choosing the perfect dining set can be a very enjoyable task, but it is also an important one because your dining set should enhance and reflect the room it will be used in. Dining sets need to be functional as well as attractive. There is no point buying a beautiful-looking dining set if the chairs are uncomfortable, or the dining table is too large or too small, too low or too high. With that in mind, finding a dining set that incorporates excellent design with eye-appeal is the ticket to making your dining room the envy of your friends.

Before you decide upon your new dining set, first consider the overall décor of the room. If the dining room is super-modern and minimalistic, you should select a dining set that is also modern, simplistic and sleek. On the other hand, if the dining room is feminine and pretty, a more traditional antique-style dining set would enhance this theme.

Picking a dining table is more than mere aesthetics however. You need to consider the dimensions of the dining room, and consider what shaped setting would make best use of the internal space. The size of your family is another matter that will bear on your decision.

Likewise the material of the dining set is another major consideration. These days there are so many different attractive and highly durable materials to choose from that you are bound to find a material that is ideal for your needs. As well as traditional wood, there are different types of metal and glass, as well as man-made plastics.

Before you do head out to buy your new dining set, spend some time thinking about the overall “look” you want in your dining room or kitchen, as well as the number of people using it and level of durability you require. By preplanning, you are sure to get the perfect dining set for your home!

Don’t Get Cut-up Over Second Rate Cutlery! Choose The Right Cutlery For You

by: Martha Mountjoy

So, you’ve cooked the perfect roast, chilled the wine and prepared the hors d'oeuvres. All you need to do now is set the table, then relax and wait for your guests to arrive. Do you go to your kitchen drawers to take out gleaming stylish silver cutlery to set the table with?

Or are you faced with dull, old-fashioned, mismatched forks and knives that simply look dreadful on your dining room table? Sadly too often our hard work and effort in the kitchen is undone when we go to set the table. After all, pulling off that truly exceptional dinner party or family gathering takes more than simply cooking wonderful food. Overall elegance and attention to detail can turn even the most basic meal into a chic, memorable evening!

When it comes to choosing the perfect cutlery set, there is no shortage of different styles, materials and costs. Selecting the right set depends on your needs and likely uses. For example, if you merely want a strong and durable cutlery set for the family, then opting for a strong, no frills stainless steel makes sense.

On the other hand, if you are planning to use your cutlery for special occasions, you will obviously want something a little more distinctive. In actual fact, most families will have two sets of cutlery – one for everyday use and one for those special moments in life.

In the kitchen and in the dining room itself, you need to have good quality cooking cutlery. For instance, when cared for properly, a quality set of kitchen knives should last a lifetime. Bear in mind, that each knife has a particular usage and with so many styles of kitchen knives available, there is something for every kitchen setting.

Many people select cutlery in classic, readily available designs. That way, if one piece of cutlery is lost, the entire set is not compromised because it can be replaced. While other one-off exclusive cutlery sets are wonderful, you do run the risk of not being able to find replacement items.

Whether you are looking for traditional silver, durable stainless steel, or funkier designs that incorporate plastic or glass, there is so much choice when it comes to cutlery that you are bound to find something that fits your style and purposes.

Beat The Heat In Summer By Installing A Swimming Pool!

by: Jon Kilminster

It’s summer again and the mercury is rising! Like most people, surviving summer means cooling down with a lovely long swim in a backyard pool. Unfortunately too many people don’t invest in a pool, and are forced to simply bake throughout summer, while they hear their neighbors splashing happily in their pool next door! There is no doubt about it – having a pool provides hours of fun and enjoyable, as well as a much needed respite from the heat of summer.

If you are sick of having to trudge your family down to the public swimming pool every afternoon, or plead with your neighbor to use their pool, perhaps it is time to install one of your own. Ask anyone with a pool, and they will tell you it is the best decision they made.

Choosing a pool is a big decision. Not only are they something of an investment, they are large and will change the appearance of you yard considerably. One of the obvious things to bear in mind when you choose your pool it the size of your garden, and how best to use the space. Pools come in a variety of sizes and shapes, ranging from perfectly round, oval, rectangular and kidney-shaped designs. The shape you opt for should work well in your yard and enhance the appearance of your garden.

Other things you will need to weigh up are the benefits of an in-ground pool versus an above ground pool. As a general rule, in-ground pools tend to be more expensive, since they require a pit to be dug into the land. That said, they are typically less visually intrusive than an above ground pool because the water is ground level.

Once you have decided on the shape, and whether to go for an above or below ground pool, you need to consider decking and fencing. Wooden or aluminum decks, are standard. As a rule, aluminum tends to be more expensive than wood, and you should be aware than many wooden decks need to be weatherproofed every year.

These are just some of the things you will need to think about when choosing your new pool. Don’t be overwhelmed though. Just think of diving into cool, clear water on a hot summers day and you will be reminded of the pleasure that your very own pool can bring!

Give the Gift of Decorative Time

by: Brian Banks

Out of the millions of homes in the United States, there is one item that continuously makes an appearance in some form or another. Every household displays at least three to five clocks within a home. Since clocks serve the very important function of alerting the current time, it is a plus when they magically transform the décor of any room. This is why clocks make perfect gifts for any occasion, including birthdays, Christmas, graduations, and commemorative moments, such as weddings and anniversaries.

Since the start of ancient civilizations, humans have come up with ways to tell time. Over the past 4,500 years, the methods and styles of time telling have become quite advanced to the point that with a click of a button, an assortment of never-ending clock ideas and features located across the World Wide Web is ready for the choosing. While improving the accuracy of timekeeping devices has been an important goal, the majority of clock styles on the market are created to mainly elevate the décor within a home.

Today, we no longer depend on primitive sundials and water-operated fountain clocks. We thank the invention of coiled springs in the 1400s, which allowed the creation of smaller clocks. Without the genius of Christiaan Huygens in 1656, the pendulum clock (with weights and a swinging pendulum) would cease to exist.

Decorative Clocks

Since clocks are responsible for a rather important everyday task, and have become quite the popular decorating elements – they make exceptional gifts that easily turn into memorable keepsakes. This includes wall selections, tabletop pieces, elaborate wrought iron creations, and even options that withstand Mother Nature, as seen with indoor-outdoor clocks.

The flower lover may enjoy the Boutique Roses Wall Clock, which comes with a classic round shape, antique finish, and Roman numeral face. The antique bouquet of roses accent can uplift a kitchen or add charm to a sewing room. With the Carl Jorgen Wall Clock, a more futuristic design emerges, which is great for a teenage décor or bar room. Western-themed décor would benefit from the Cowboy Wall Clock or Boots Wall Clock from Home Furnishing Boutique. When looking to give the gift of novelty, the Gear Wall Clock offers a different appeal to a hallway or foyer.

Specialty Clocks

When it comes to celebrating a special occasion, these particular moments call for a specialty clock that serves as a constant reminder for the achievement of a graduating college senior or the admiration you hold for your parent's 25 solid years of marriage. The anniversary clocks offered at Home Furnishing Boutique provide the perfect gestures to honor ever-lasting love. With the Dominion Solid Brass Gold Plated Anniversary Clock, the cozy round shape shines with solid brass and gold plating. Customization is possible on the interior or exterior of the clock lid.

With the Executive Walnut Finish Plaque Anniversary Clock, the attractive solid hardwood with a classic walnut finish easily adds a memorable touch to a desk, shelf, or mantle. With this customizable clock, receivers of this gift readily enjoy the additional medallion and brass nameplate that accompanies the display. However, the whimsical Jubilee Brass with Glass Dome Anniversary Clock makes the perfect accompaniment for a fireplace with its appealing brass finish and metal casing. Additional features sealed within the glass dome include the brass pillars, and a pendulum that delicately sways with Swarovsky crystal and a two-tone diamond cut dial ring – a complete eye catcher.

Want to pair a keepsake clock with a photo of the grandkids? Consider the Desk Portrait Solid Brass Desk Clock, which allows Grandma and Grandpa to greet their grandchildren when telling the time. Other clocks that make great anniversary gifts, includes the Lord Baltimore Solid Brass Pedestal Clock and the lantern-style looking Wentworth Brass Finish Carriage Style Desk Clock.

USA Wooden Clocks

Home Furnishing Boutique also supplies a collection of fine, handmade wooden clocks fashioned in the U.S.A with mantle and wall styles to consider. Have you ever walked into the home of a relative and noticed that their fireplace seemed a bit bare? In order to add to their décor, consider an attractive wooden mantle clock of solid cherry, white maple, or colored oak.

With the Crystal Seville Ball Pendulum Mantle Clock, the solid cherry wood cabinet and warm cherry finish showcases a mesmerizing Swarovsky crystal ball pendulum surrounded by twisted brass pillars and a diamond-cut rose pattern found on the dial. The Seville Solid Cherry Glass Window Mantle Clock offers a round, open dial of brass and silver and cathedral windows – joined by Roman numerals. You also have the choice of clocks that not only display the time, but also emit single and dual chimes.

As for wooden wall clocks, the fascinating display that a pendulum clock delivers can create a completely different look to a room. A classic style wall clock can make an attractive addition to the newly remodeled bathroom at your best friend's house. Perhaps Grandma would enjoy the Carlisle Oak American Classic Replica Schoolhouse Wall Clock with an oak cabinet and finish for the kitchen. Overall, wooden wall clocks have the power to add character and charm to any room in a house with an array of dark antique finishes and traditional styles.

Think Garden Gifts for the Holidays!

by: Brian Banks

There is nothing better than being able to relax in the garden on a lovely day. Whether you want to be out there soaking up the sun while you read a book or you just want to unwind and be in the essence of nature, having a great garden is the best option for activities like these. If this is not your idea of a lovely day and you would prefer it when the rain is pouring, there are many options for that too. It doesn't matter if you have a small garden or a large one, as long as there is space for you to relax, there are many things you can add to your garden to make it a relaxing retreat. If you have friends, co-workers or family that enjoy their gardens, think Garden Gifts for the Holidays.

Garden Gnomes

Garden gnomes look good in any garden, as long as you can fit them in, they deserve to be there! You also have a wide variety when choosing one of these items for your garden; just a few of them are; the Artemisia Gnome is a 14" tall green pixie that will go well in any garden that's green. She has a beautiful smile with her blonde hair and is made from unbreakable aluminum. The Dianthus Gnome is a more colorful pixie, dressed in pretty pink and stands at 12". She will add brightness and happiness to any garden! The Farming Gnome is of a short farmer with a big beard. He is also colorful and will look lovely in any garden that needs, or has, a bit of color. He is also 14" tall. The Osmunda Gnome is a happy pixie indeed! This garden fairy will bring smiles to the faces of its viewers and will have you pleasantly spending more time in your garden. The Woodland Gnome is a merry old man that has his beard neatly tucked into his belt, and offers a friendly smile to whoever walks near his domain. This gnome stands at 12" and will bring color to any garden.

Garden Sprites

Garden sprites are great if you are looking to add some realism and color to your garden, and there are so many different ones to choose from you are sure to find the one that is perfect for your garden. Like the April Showers Garden Sprite, it is hand cast from an original sculpture and is of a little girl with a watering can. This is great for a large garden and can be put in a section with long grass, on a rock close to a pond. The Charlie My Boy Sprite is also hand cast and has a silver mirror ball that the sculpture, a little boy, is holding in his hands. This Garden Sprite will look wonderful if placed in a garden around a lot of pretty flowers. Instead of having just an ordinary downspout in your garden, the Old Boot Downspouter provides something more interesting and fun. If not the boot, how about the Ladybug Downspouter, the Curious Kitten or the Turtle Downspouter? These are all great and they look beautiful too. The Jr Fire Chief Garden Sprite is a very cute one indeed, of a little boy dressed as a fireman with a miniature hose to water your garden!

Patio Fountains

There is nothing more soothing than sitting in your garden and listening to the flow of water from a beautiful patio fountain. There are big ones, small ones, colorful ones and plain ones; whatever you think will suit your garden. Choose from fairies, angels, dolphins, frogs and even wishing well fountains, like in the olden days!

Garden Benches

If you want to sit in your garden and relax, you are going to need something comfortable to sit on. There are many great garden benches available that would suit your garden perfectly. Some are small, just enough for two people to sit on, so if you have a small garden you could use one of those, but there are also larger ones like the Lutyen l Bench, this one is best when put at a large tree because it is in the shape of a half moon, so putting it almost around your favorite tree in the garden will make the most relaxing spot ever! It is made from wrought iron so it will last a long time and it comes with a full size comfortable cushion, providing you with maximum comfort.

Weathervanes

These make an unusual gift. Forged in the USA, these iron weathervanes come in all the favorite designs, Deer, Horse, Rooster and more – even a Fireman!

There are many ways in which one can make their garden into something more, a place where they can just chill out when they get home from a hard days work or when they are at home during the day and just feel like being on their own. So why not treat yourself while you are shopping for other's gifts.

When You Don’t Need To Call A Plumber

by: Chuck Lunsford

Don’t get me wrong. A good professional plumber is worth his/her weight in gold when you have a serious problem with your plumbing system. Over the years I’ve had to make that call and I’ve been more than satisfied with the quick response and competent work that has been done. The only thing that hurt a bit was the bottom line when I wrote out the check.

It’s interesting that topics such as this are not a part of the typical high school curriculum. As a former educator, I’ve always believed that the education of our young people should include a number of levels of learning including how to get along in the real world of home owning, etc. Granted, many secondary schools offer a fine curriculum in areas such as auto mechanics, woodworking, etc. but they really fall short in teaching about the everyday problems people come face to face with as adults.

Enough of the soapbox lecture.

The purpose of this brief article is to cover some of the basics involved in taking care of routine plumbing problems that eventually all of us will have to face. Of all the systems in the home, I hate dealing with plumbing the most! Many repairs need to be completed before your dry run (excuse the pun) can be run to see if the problem is fixed. If it’s not, you usually have to start all over again, which is frustrating to say the least.

One of the most common household plumbing problems is the stopped-up toilet. We recently moved to a new home and were having a lot of problems with toilet stoppage. We hadn’t changed our diet so we ruled that out as the cause and tried figuring out what the real problem was. Well, with a little help from the builder we found out that this newer toiled required you to hold the handle down a little longer to get a complete flush. You would think that there would be some kind of warning label or something that would clue you into this, but no. The problem went away after we followed his advise. Easy fix.

Traditional plungers have been upgraded to configurations that will get the job done quicker and easier. There is a plunger called “power plunger”. Ask for it by name at your local hardware store or home center. Chances are that it may be marketed under a different name. Make sure that the salesperson knows that the item is, in fact, what is typically called a “power plunger”. This plunger is effective in clearing clogs from toilets, sinks and bathtubs. If your kitchen sink is clogged and is connected to a dishwasher, be sure to clamp-off the dishwasher hose so that the plunger will work completely on the drainpipe rather than having some of its pressure diverted (uselessly) to the dishwasher. When the clog is cleared don’t forget to remove the clamp from the dishwasher hose or you will have some unpleasant consequences when you do wash the next load of dishes.

I’m not a big fan of liquid drain cleaners. I’ve found that they usually don’t get the job done (although some people will beg to differ). If you elect to use a chemical drain opener, be sure that it doesn’t have chemicals that may damage your piping (read the label on the box or bottle). Also, most of these chemical cleaners will wreak havoc if they touch exposed skin so, if you choose to try them, be sure to wear protective gloves and a long sleeved shirt and wash your hands thoroughly when your finished. If you don’t use the entire bottle, make sure it’s stored in a safe place where children can’t get to it. Most of the cleaners include chemicals that are so toxic that death may result if they’re ingested. There are some liquid drain cleaners that are “earth friendly” and are less hazardous to use. I’m not sure that they “pack the punch” that more tradition liquid drain cleaners do but I’m not an expert by any means in this area.

OK, you’ve tried a “power plunger” and even some liquid drain openers but the drain remains clogged. What’s next? Your best bet is to buy a small hand auger. Using the auger is simple. Push it into the drain until you reach resistance and then close the thumbscrew auger lock with about a foot of the auger extending from the drain opening. Turn the auger handle clockwise and you will hopefully move it past the bend in the pipe (where the clog may be). If the drain is still clogged, loosen the lock and repeat the process. Eventually, the clog should be forced down the drainpipe and the problem will be solved. If you suspect that there is an object that is clogging the drain, turn the auger counterclockwise to remove it.

If all else fails and you have access to the plumbing beneath the clogged unit, you can try to remove the trap, etc. to see if this helps locate the clog. Be sure to use a cloth to protect the metal before you try to loosen the joint to avoid damage.

No joy? Call a plumber.

The longer you live in your abode, the greater the chances that the seals under the pop up stoppers in the sink and bathtub may begin to leak so that the water drains before you’re ready for it to drain. A replacement stopper is your best bet for the bathtub. The fresh seal should take care of the problem. The sink, on the other hand can be easily fixed in just a few minutes. Inside the cabinet there’s a rod that protrudes from the drainpipe. This is called a lift rod. This rod passes through a horizontal piece of metal called the clevis strap and is fixed in place with a spring clip. Sometimes the clip has become loose and the lift rod is no longer running through the hole in the clevis strap. Make sure to force the clamp downward to increase its holding power then run the lift rod back through the clevis strap and slide the clip back on. If this solves the problem, you’re finished. Sometimes the seal in the stopper has become worn and needs a little more downward pressure to make a watertight seal. Look at the top of the clevis strap for a thumbscrew and after loosing it, move it upwards a bit (usually a half inch will suffice). Tighten the screw and your problems should be over.

Swimming Pool Sanitation

by: Aditi Joshi

Bathing in swimming pool is very enjoying moment for anyone but if you refuse to proper sanitation then there will be a chance for being sick. To stop the growth of germs in your swimming pool, sanitation of chemicals in pool or spas water is necessary. There are some major points which we have to always remind in our mind.

1. These germs can cause contagion in ears, nose and gullet and possibly other more risky diseases like Meningitis.

2. Germs control is simply consummate by adding a sanitizer (most commonly Hypochlorous Acid or simply "chlorine") frequently, and then passing the water through a filter to eliminate the dead germs.

We then require being confident that any extra germs inflowing the water is met by a "sanitizer residual" in enough meditation to kill this new germs as frequently as possible.

The swimmers and bathers are the main base for germs in pool’s water. Other sources are top-up water and garbage, such as leaves, grass, soil, etc. Pets can add extensively to germs levels. A large dog can infect up to twenty times the volume of water that a human can.

But it’s not a matter of serious worry. It is generally accepted that most harmful bacteria will be killed when exposed to a "free chlorine residual" as low as one milligram per liter or, in other words one part per million (ppm). By frequently examination of pool’s water and including the desired amount of chlorine to the water, a residual level of 1.0 or 2.0 ppm is simply managed.

Types of chlorine:

There are various forms of chlorine available in the market. Granular, liquid, or tablet, and can also be stabilized or un-stabilized. There is also a product salt water chlorinator available in the market by which chlorine is generated. Each of these different forms has its own characteristics and advantages. For instance, granular chlorine is convenient, easy to store and relatively cheap, however it cannot be dosed automatically. On the other hand, liquid chlorine is bulky and can't be stored for long periods, but can be dosed automatically. All are suitable sanitizers for your pool, so select the type that best outfits your finances and existence. Anyway you choose any form to use the need for a residual of 1.0 to 2.0 ppm remains the same.

Safety Note:

1. Never mix other chemicals even mixture of chlorine. It may result fire and/or explosion.

2. Stabilizing refers to the mixing of isocyanuric acid (or "Stabiliser") with chlorine, to protect it from UV rays, which drastically decrease its efficiency. Isocyanuric acid can also be added manually to the pool.

Salt Chlorinator:

As the name suggests, these units produce chlorine in the pool water using a process of electrolysis to convert sodium chloride (salt) into hypochlorous acid. These units are available in different sizes to suit different size pools. Be sure the unit you select is capable of producing sufficient chlorine to meet your maximum requirements. No matter which one you choose, you may still need to add extra chlorine from time to time to make sure a satisfactory residual level is maintained.

The stage of stabilizer in the water should be checked frequently if you are using stabilized chlorine artifacts or are including stabilizer to the pool, the level of, as in doing its job, it does not get used up like other chemicals in the pool. If the stabilizer level gets too elevated, it can in fact restrain the effectiveness of the chlorine.

Chlorine Smell:

Many pool owners criticize about the smell of chlorine and think that the pool may have too much chlorine in it. In fact, the conflicting is most likely the case. Not having enough chlorine in the pool will result in the chlorine smell and also lead to users suffering with sore eyes and itchy skin. The reason this is so, is that a by-product of chlorination is the creation of chloramines. These chloramines are the smelly little beasts that cause all the hassle. For being free from them, we require to add more chlorine. It is for this reason that, from time to time, the pool needs "superchlorination".

Heated Pool:

A heated pool will need extra chlorine than a non-heated pool. The reason for that is chlorine used up much more speedily in hot water. Stabilized chlorine products should not be used in heated pools as their effectiveness is greatly reduced.

Major Points to remember:

1. Always maintain a chlorine residual of 1.0 to 2.0 ppm (milligrams per litre)

2. Select the product that best suits you

3. Chlorine smell generally means not enough chlorine

4. A heated pool will require more chlorine

5. Never mix chemicals

Build New or Stay and Remodel

by: charles gueli

There are three possible scenarios involved in that question:

1. Stay where you are and renovate
2. Move to an existing house and renovate
3. Build a new house for you to move into

There are numerous considerations, not the least of which is how you feel about your existing location. That word – LOCATION – should be your primary focus. Do you prefer to remain where you are, or not? Is staying where you are an option, or are you forced to relocate due to a job change, or other issues?

If you wish to stay where you are, there’s no reason to read this article. Remodeling and/or expanding the place where you now live is the least expensive alternative – by far.

Your aggravation levels will increase during the construction, but they will do that with either of the other choices as well. If it gets to be too much, you can move to a motel for 2 months, eat dinner out every night, and still come out cheaper than either option 2 or option 3. If you want to be in your present home, case closed.

So let’s assume you have to move, and we’ll concentrate on option 2 vs. option 3. There are two important aspects of this topic which apply to both.

• In both cases you have to research the property with the building department to make sure you will be able to do what you wish. Verify zoning, lot size restrictions, and access to utilities.

• You will have unknown costs (moving, insurance, taxes, financing costs, etc.) in either case.

Advantages of remodeling an existing house:

• Fewer hidden (or unknown) costs. New homes often have impact fees, ground preparation fees, and higher permit fees than those imposed for remodeling.

• Hard construction costs will be less (usually, but not always).

• You can move into the house much sooner. If you have to leave your existing home quickly, you may not have the ability to wait for a new home to be built.

Advantages of building new:

• Unrestricted design potential, allowing you to end up with a more modern, better insulated home, with better traffic flow than you would have in an older building. Also, older homes have less closet/storage space than new ones.

• Your long term energy costs will be lower because all of your equipment will be running more efficiently.

• Less disruption to family routine. While construction is happening, you’re still living in your present house. Then you move into a finished product (possibly with some decorative items to complete).

I’m sure you noticed that I haven’t listed costs in either list. The determining factor is going to be the extent of the renovation to the existing building. Depending upon the condition of the house, age, building codes and other factors, it can actually be more costly to remodel than to build new.

In either case, allow an extra 20% in your budget over and above any quoted costs you’ve obtained. 10% is for upgrades that you decide upon after initial pricing. The other 10% is for the rising costs of material and labor. If the price of oil goes through the roof again, 10% might not be enough.

If the older home was built between 1950 and 1978, there might be issues having to do with asbestos and lead paint. Make sure you get a professional inspection performed. You may also be required to bring the plumbing and electrical systems up to date.

In conclusion, renovating a home might be very rewarding, as well as the cheaper alternative. However, you have to do your homework before making the commitment, in order to insure that you’re not stepping into a money pit. Every situation is different. Your decision will probably come down to what your sixth sense tells you. Regardless of how you choose, anticipate that moving into a new home will take more time and more money than expected.

Creative Maintenance and repair of Roofs & Homes

by: Webmaster Liquidroof

Talking about feasible and suitable home repairing and maintenance, that is the hottest issue for every person and they want to get the most effective results and creative work for saving their property. In this busiest life, home owners and industrialists have very little time for repairing and maintaining their homes, roofs and commercial sectors. So they want some special type of products for repairing and maintaining their homes and offices, by applying them, they can easily repair and maintain their homes for many years. In order to provide the results for this requirement, there are number of challenges which a contractor have to face during the tear off the roof or home and installing a new roof. They have several ways of completing task of construction, in shifts and at once or regular basis, but for a creative maintenance of a roof and provide long time strength to the home, there is the never ending responsibility for a builder. More over when a home owner wants to get the work with less cost and down timing, this responsibility exceeds its limits and become a new challenge for home constructors. So the home constructors have a long list of responsibilities that is endless.

With recurring costs and time consuming repairs, facility maintenance personnel are focused on providing a safe and efficient environment to the homeowners and to provide satisfactory results. There are many products in use for construction purpose that gives the extra ordinary results that can easily satisfy the home owner and also easy in application for the constructor. As Liquid roof coatings are the best sealant for repairing, it gives full recovery for any roof leaking problem that may occur because of summer sun or heavy rain. Liquid roof is also most famous product among the constructors because it provide a time down criteria for its application with full coverage of roof leaks. So constructors have numerous proven solutions to solve maintenance issues for all types of homes and roofs and commercial sectors on the basis of all these products. They also provide the surety to reduce costs and downtime while improving product life cycles and energy efficiency.

Roof repair and maintenance activities present unique challenges to maintenance crews and operators. So they have to face this type of challenges by improving working efficiency and conducting research in this field and by introducing new products that can easily recover the Roof leaks, cracking and damaging problems. They have recently introduced the products that have highest capacity and resistance for water and heat. EPDM and epdm coatings, Liquid roof coatings and liquid rubber best for controlling the temperature and it provides great resistance for sun light and keep the internal temperature under control. Similarly liquid rubber and liquid roof are specially designed for water resistance. Liquid roof coatings have the highest capability for stopping the rain water and can easily drain it. They also exceed the repair timing interval of a roof or wall as they have more flexibility that improves its resistance characteristics.

“The most optimal use of repairing and construction material is required” this is the demand of a home owner which makes a constructor more responsible with his work and he tries his best to choose the products that can easily match with the consumer demand. So they become more conscious in the selection of the repairing products, that they may provide the repair and maintaining of a roof leak according to the public requirements. This can be done inly with Liquid epdm and Liquid roof as they meet with all their demands but more efficiency is required. Building maintenance specialists are responsible for maintaining complex and expensive housing and company’s equipment under demanding operating conditions.

All these efforts for getting the highest level of consumer satisfaction in this field become a cause of giving the society more beneficial products which have ability for meeting with all their requirements. So they get more feasible results for repair and maintenance purpose. Application of liquid roof and epdm provide the benefits of both home owner and constructor. The results of epdm have reduced maintenance costs, reduced downtime, increased component life and duration, reduced repair frequency, and improved efficiency for temperature. That’s really creative and economical repair and maintenance for the home.

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