Wood Does Rot - Home Repairs and Advice

Let me give you some advice right now," All Wood Rots Eventually". I have heard it all when it comes to this wood or that wood lasting this long or that long........ Hello....... All wood is going to rot at some period of it's life.

With that out of the way we can focus on some wood seems to last a little longer under certain conditions.

Teak is a wood that has a lot of natural oil in it. But you won't frame a house with it. Teak is used on boats and expensive outdoor furniture. It is a excellent wood to use when building a ship. The woods natural oils seem to create a protective barrier around it allowing it to last a long time even at sea. Great wood for the outdoors...

Oak is a excellent choice for almost every wood finish inside your home. It is used for kitchen cabinets, entertainment centers, flooring, trim and furniture. Oak is a hard wood and can take a lot of abuse from almost anything except water. I have seen a nice piece of furniture get stained from just setting one glass on it for ten minutes. Great Wood For Inside Your Home.

Poplar is also a great choice for inside your house. This wood is used by many finish carpenters for making cabinets and other built ins for your house. It is also popular not poplar for wood trim . Most of the poplar that is used inside of your home will eventually get painted. So that makes poplar a inexpensive choice of wood for homeowners that want a nice painted finish on their interior wood projects. Great Wood For Inside Your Home.

Douglas Fir is the most common source of lumber used on the west coast of the United States. This is a extremely durable wood product. On the East Coast they use southern pine and the nominal thickness is usually two inches by four inches for a 2 x 4 . With Douglas Fir a 2 x 4 is one inch and a half by three and one half inches to support the same weight structurally. In my opinion one of the best home framing materials.

Douglas Fir can and has been for a long time now. A great source for clear finish materials used inside of the house. You will see a nice orange or brown looking piece of wood stained naturally in some older home. This is Douglas Fir. It can be a bit pricy but really gives a log cabin look to your home.

Redwood is a great choice for inside or outside your home. I love Redwood it has a nice look to it stained naturally. Redwood is used for a lot of siding, fences, decks and out door furniture. The main problem with Redwood is that is is soft and will get scratched easily. Now for the facts about Redwood. It does rot and termites will eat it.

Wood myth number one eliminated. I have heard stories about wood that termites won't eat. Well Redwood is not one of them. I have seen termites tearing this stuff up. Don't get caught up in the hype that this or that wood will last for 5 years or 50 years. Under the right conditions almost all woods will rot at a accelerated rate.

For more information on wood damage, check out wood repair at http://gregvan.com/wood_repair.htm

Copyright 2008 Greg Vanden Berge All Rights Reserved

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He is currently working on more building stairs books and adding useful content to help solve problems created by the lack of construction knowledge in the building industry. Few Home Remodeling Rules

Stair Deck Head Out Problem
Signs Of Door Rubbing

Does Home Improvement Still Make Sense In A Housing Slump?

Last night I watched a home improvement show in which a Florida couple had spent $50,000 updating their home. Now they were asking their realtor for a home appraisal. Amazingly, the realtor told them their renovation had increased the value of their home by $120,000 - more than a two-to-one return on their investment!

Cable TV is filled with shows like this that inspire homeowners to take on kitchen remodeling, bedroom makeovers or similar projects.

But many of these shows were filmed two or three years ago during the height of the housing boom.

As we enter 2008 we face a very different housing market in which nationwide home prices are stagnant and even declining in some markets.

In this sort of environment, does home improvement still make sense? The answer depends on what sort of home improvement you want to tackle.

Avoid Style Makeovers

First, it's time for a reality check. Even during the peak of the housing boom, the idea that remodeling your home produced a high return on investment was simply a myth.

According to 2004 survey by Remodeling Magazine, the average home renovation returned only 80% of its value at the time of resale.

So for every dollar you invested in a major renovation, you could expect $0.80 back in your pocket. And that was in 2004, when home values across the country were climbing at an unprecedented rate.

If you want a style makeover to make yourself happy, by all means you should do it. But you shouldn't expect it to dramatically increase the resale value of your home.

In fact, your taste could well end up driving away potential buyers. Personal tastes can be tricky. You may love red and gold walls in your living room, but some buyers will see this as a liability that needs to be fixed.

Even if your tastes are in step with current tastes, styles will change over time. Your choice of kitchen tile and countertops may be in line with current fashion, but if you don't plan to sell your home for another ten years, the style may well be dated when you sell.

Keep in Step with Your Neighborhood

Your home's location is still the biggest factor determining its value. With that in mind, renovations make the most sense if they bring your house up to the norm for the neighborhood.

If your 3,000 square foot home has only two bathrooms, adding a third bathroom makes sense. If all other homes in your neighborhood have a deck, then adding one to your home makes sense as well.

But this rule only applies to major items. Just because your neighbor added solid gold faucets and a sunken marble bathtub doesn't mean you should remodel your master bath to keep pace.

And if you are already the biggest house on the block, further home upgrades will do little to increase the value of your home.

Invest in Home Maintenance.

Home repairs and preventative maintenance are the best investment you can make in your house, and they make sense regardless of whether the housing market is in a boom or a bust. They won't necessarily raise the value of your home, but they can prevent your home from loosing far more value due to damage and wear.

Putting off repairs simply means they will cost more when you do get around to fixing them. A crack from a settling foundation will expand over time. Water damage from a leaky gutter will only cause further wear to your exterior walls.

When you sell your house these issues will almost certainly come up in the home inspection, and you may need to discount your home's price to allow the buyer to make repairs. Worse, too large a repair bill may simply scare a buyer away.

The Bottom Line:

Overall, the best advice is to invest in sound home improvements that keep your house in good shape and up to the standard of your neighborhood.

If you still want to make a style upgrade, that's fine. But do it for aesthetic reasons, not financial ones.

How to Install Door Locks - San Deigo Home Tips

Recent reports show that the majority of home burglaries occur due to an unlocked or faulty door. If your door is not safe and secure, you might as well just leave it open and invite the thieves in. No one wants to do that, so the next option is to fix the locks or replace them. You can do it yourself or call a NYC locksmith. If you are good at handy man tasks, it may be no problem to replace security locks.

The first issue you will find in replacing locks is choosing the best ones. There are a wide variety of security locks and styles on the market today. Most of your decision will be persuaded by the type of door you have. If you have an exterior door, you may want to consider a set of security locks. These locks would include a dead bolt. There are different types of dead locks available on the market. You can choose from one that locks internally with a lever, or you may want to go with the type that locks from the inside with a key.

After you have chosen the right type of lock, you will need to choose between a right- or left- handed style. The style is based on which side your door opens from. You will also need to consider if your door swings in or out when opening. For your locks to work efficiently, you will need to know these details. The next step after purchasing is to ensure you have proper tools. You will need basic hand tools like a hammer, screwdriver, and a chisel. You will want to start your installation by first removing the old lock or door knob. Make sure you clean up the surface of the doors and remove any caulk or grime that may be there.

Then it's time to start installing the new locks or door handles. You should first check to see if the new locks will fit inside the holes for the old. If they do not you may need to enlarge the holes with the chisel. You can mark the area with a pencil to ensure the right size. Once you have the new lock in the proper size opening, you will need to read the individual instructions for your new locks. Each type of lock will have its own exact way to be installed. Most are very simple, but some will require exact steps for proper fit. Don't worry, if it gets too complicated, you can always call your local locksmith for a little help.

Rob Hargreaves - An American Locksmith of leading locksmith company named Mr-locks. Call or contact me for all locksmith services.

What Does a GFI Do

In your bathroom you should have a GFI electrical outlet. Most new homes or newly remodeled homes require you to have GFI electrical outlets in the kitchen. Most older kitchens do not have GFI electrical outlets. GFI stands for ground fault circuit interrupter.

Why not call it a GFCI instead of a GFI electrical outlet? Well it is called a GFCI in some instances. GFI is short and is the most common name used by most electricians and builders for this type of outlet.

GFI 's come in 15 amp and 20 amperage outlets. GFI outlets must be wired properly. Make sure you're using the proper wire size when hooking up the GFI outlet.

How do I know which size wire to use? This all depends on how far away you are running it from the electrical panel. There are charts you can use to figure this out. If you are not running the electrical wire more than 80 feet from the electrical panel you can use 12 gauge electrical wires for a 20 amp GFI. This is a general rule of thumb for most electrical house wiring.

If you're going to be using a 15 amp GFI and you are going to be less than 80 feet away from the electrical panel you can use 14 gauge electrical wires. Again this is just a general rule of thumb for most electrical house wiring.

A GFI is a light duty electrical plug used in bathrooms, kitchens and the exterior of your house. The sole purpose of the GFI is to shut the breaker off faster if there is any moisture or light load problems.

Let's say for instance you have your hair dryer plugged into the GFI outlet. The hair dryer somehow falls into the sink while it is on or plugged in. The GFI outlet will instantly shut off because of the sensitivity of the breaker inside of the plug it self.

The GFI plug has a test button and a reset button on it. If you are continually resetting the GFI you will wear it out eventually. I have had GFI plugs after resetting the button about 10 times break and no longer able to use them.

The GFI electrical plug is a great idea and if you don't have them in your bathroom or outside of your home it would be a great idea to have an electrician install them for you.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He is currently working on more Home Building Library and adding useful content to help solve problems created by the lack of construction knowledge in the building industry.

San Diego Termite Damage

Skylights

Repairing a Leaking Toilet - Home Repairs

Let me explain how a toilet works. First when you go to flush the toilet a little arm pulls a rubber flapper up and lets the water drain into the toilet bowl. The water draining into the toilet bowl forces the old water out along with the number two or number one waste and extremities.

If the toilet sounds like it is running there is a good chance that the seal between the rubber flapper and the plastic rain at the bottom of the toilet is broken somehow. The sound you are hearing is water running around this ring and in to the toilet bowl.

This leak is actually causing no damage to the toilet itself but is wasting water. Hence the water bill will be a little higher if you don't fix the leaking toilet. The best way to find out if this is actually your problem is to take the toilet tank lid off. Then stick your hand down into the toilet bowl and press gently on the rubber flap.

If the water stops leaking or starts running faster this is your problem. Turn the water off to the toilet. There will be a shut off valve on the wall under your toilet bowl in the bathroom. After you turn the water off removed the plastic flap and examine it.

You will be looking for a warped toilet flap or of some sort or grooves on the flapper itself. Take the toilet flapper down to your local home improvement store and buy a new one. Go home and replace the new toilet flapper and this should solve 90% of your leaking toilet problems.

There is one more thing it could be. With the toilet tank lid off, check to see if water is overflowing into the little round plastic pipe. This plastic pipe should have a small hose running from the float valve assembly into it.

If the water is over flowing from the toilet tank into this little plastic pipe you will need to adjust the float.

First thing you will need to do is while the toilet is running lift up on the float lever arm. If the water stops you can simply bend the metal arm of the float lever. The purpose of bending the arm will force the float deeper into the water there for stopping the water from rising over the small tube in the center of your toilet.

There are few parts to a toilet and most parts can be purchased at your local hardware or home improvement centers. Toilet repairs like this can be made simple and the parts used to replace are inexpensive.

Happy Toilet Repairing.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He is currently working on more House Building and Remodeling Library and adding useful content to help solve problems created by the lack of construction knowledge in the building industry.

Visit us and get more information on building and remodeling your homes and Some Great Plumbing Ideas

Short Door Under Stairs

Paint Me a Picture - No - Paint Me a Hall, DIY Style

Painting is one of the easiest DIY projects around. Novice DIY weekend warriors often begin with their DIY home improvement projects by repainting fences, hallways, doors, windows and walls.

Important tools

To be able to do painting jobs around the house, you would need the following:

1. Roller brushes of different sizes- you need different sizes, depending on the job. Roller brushes that are more than six inches in length are good for walls. Smaller roller brushes can be used to paint the bottom of walls. Small roller brushes can also be used to paint tables and chairs.

2. Synthetic brushes- synthetic brushes come in all shapes, sizes and colors. However, as a rule of thumb, purchase those that have fine yet durable strands. Synthetic brushes should be at least two inches wide. Larger brushes should have longer handles.

In addition, large brushes are heavier, so you have the option of attaching them to poles for hard to reach areas, such as the corners of ceilings.

3. Supply of old newspapers- you can use newspapers or similar recyclable papers. Use these to protect furniture and other surfaces when you are painting. Use plenty of paper when painting large surfaces such as walls and ceilings.

4. Plastic paint pans- pans can be bought from hardware stores. These specially made pans hold the paint on one side, while uneven surfaces allow you to remove excess paint.

5. Thinners- thinners will allow you to remove excess and encrusted paint on your roller brushes. Hard, encrusted paint can damage your roller brushes in the end. Never use water, as it will take too long to remove all the paint.

How to paint a hall

It seems daunting at first- the idea of painting a hall. But in reality, some tools and a bit of patience, plus lots of fun will get the job done.

The first step is to clear out your hallway. Put all the stuff in your hallway in another room. This eliminates the need to put newspapers all around. The risk of paint spots on your stuff is reduced to zero.

Second step is to clean the walls with a wet sponge and some soap. Rinse the walls and allow it to completely dry. If there is glossy paint, use a sandpaper to make the surface a bit rougher.

With a roller brush, apply the primer. Proceed to applying two coats of paint. Let the paint dry for a day or two.

Start re-adding things to your hallway. Old, useless things like unused golf bags should not be added to your hallway again. This process will de-clutter your hallway.

To beautify this space, consider adding plant life. Potted plants are a good choice. The potted plants need not be real. You can use plastic daisies or synthetic roses. Just make sure you clean your plants regularly with a wet piece of cloth to preserve their color.

If you do not have a clock in the hallway, consider adding a wall clock. Wall clocks can be either modern or completely classical with swinging pendulums.

The author of this article is Benedict Yossarian. Benedict recommends Roof Bond Foam Roof Insulation and Dekorbeton Concrete Stamping for your DIY needs.

Paint Me a Picture - No - Paint Me a Hall, DIY Style

Painting is one of the easiest DIY projects around. Novice DIY weekend warriors often begin with their DIY home improvement projects by repainting fences, hallways, doors, windows and walls.

Important tools

To be able to do painting jobs around the house, you would need the following:

1. Roller brushes of different sizes- you need different sizes, depending on the job. Roller brushes that are more than six inches in length are good for walls. Smaller roller brushes can be used to paint the bottom of walls. Small roller brushes can also be used to paint tables and chairs.

2. Synthetic brushes- synthetic brushes come in all shapes, sizes and colors. However, as a rule of thumb, purchase those that have fine yet durable strands. Synthetic brushes should be at least two inches wide. Larger brushes should have longer handles.

In addition, large brushes are heavier, so you have the option of attaching them to poles for hard to reach areas, such as the corners of ceilings.

3. Supply of old newspapers- you can use newspapers or similar recyclable papers. Use these to protect furniture and other surfaces when you are painting. Use plenty of paper when painting large surfaces such as walls and ceilings.

4. Plastic paint pans- pans can be bought from hardware stores. These specially made pans hold the paint on one side, while uneven surfaces allow you to remove excess paint.

5. Thinners- thinners will allow you to remove excess and encrusted paint on your roller brushes. Hard, encrusted paint can damage your roller brushes in the end. Never use water, as it will take too long to remove all the paint.

How to paint a hall

It seems daunting at first- the idea of painting a hall. But in reality, some tools and a bit of patience, plus lots of fun will get the job done.

The first step is to clear out your hallway. Put all the stuff in your hallway in another room. This eliminates the need to put newspapers all around. The risk of paint spots on your stuff is reduced to zero.

Second step is to clean the walls with a wet sponge and some soap. Rinse the walls and allow it to completely dry. If there is glossy paint, use a sandpaper to make the surface a bit rougher.

With a roller brush, apply the primer. Proceed to applying two coats of paint. Let the paint dry for a day or two.

Start re-adding things to your hallway. Old, useless things like unused golf bags should not be added to your hallway again. This process will de-clutter your hallway.

To beautify this space, consider adding plant life. Potted plants are a good choice. The potted plants need not be real. You can use plastic daisies or synthetic roses. Just make sure you clean your plants regularly with a wet piece of cloth to preserve their color.

If you do not have a clock in the hallway, consider adding a wall clock. Wall clocks can be either modern or completely classical with swinging pendulums.

The author of this article is Benedict Yossarian. Benedict recommends Roof Bond Foam Roof Insulation and Dekorbeton Concrete Stamping for your DIY needs.

Suspended Ceilings - Home Tips

Suspended ceiling or known also as dropped ceilings are ceilings that are placed underneath the existing one and hide any kinds of wiring or piping that may be sticking out of the current ceiling. Suspended ceilings are a great idea as they allow you to hide all of the clutter that is up there already allowing for maintenance to be carried out on anything that is there without as much risk as you would without the suspended ceiling being there.

They are made up from a grid that contains metal frameworks which is held together with wires which connect up to the existing ceiling, in this grid tiles are placed and linked up, this is what makes the basis of a suspended ceiling even thought there are many different types of suspended ceilings, they all seem to follow the same basis.

Suspended ceiling started being made to help with sound levels in rooms and offers sound absorption. This is made by adding insulation above the tiles, this helps to absorb the sound in the room.

Now though sound absorption is not the only reason for getting suspended ceilings installed, nowadays you can have a lot of different reasons for example you may want to hide pipes or create air ducts for you building, if this is the case then suspended ceilings are definitely the way forward for you.

When you are thinking about getting your suspended ceilings installed there should be one main concern on your mind, this is Safety. You need to know that your ceilings are going to be safe and cause no harm to anyone or be a hazard in any way. You are going to need to make sure that the tiles and anything else you place up in the suspended ceilings in firmly attached to the grid otherwise there can be problems with the ceiling falling down or in the event of an emergency where the ceiling has to be pulled down I.e. a fire, then the whole ceiling can be brought down as one and doesn't come down in pieces causing major hazards.

If you are going to install suspended ceilings in a clean room then you need to make sure that the suspended ceiling complies with all rules and laws that are set. If your suspended ceilings are in any way contaminated with dust or particles then your whole clean room becomes pointless and questionable.

Clean rooms are required in many different industries which include food, electronic and pharmaceuticals. If your room does not meet the industry standards you can be closed down, so therefore making sure that your suspended ceilings in no way effect your business you will need to make sure that you can meet requirements with your ceilings. You will need to have a steady flow of purified air being brought into the room; this can be easily incorporated into suspended ceilings in the ceiling void above.

So before purchasing your suspended ceilings you should make sure that it complies 100% with all of your health and safety regulations.

Find more about Suspended Ceilings

Contractor In Southern California

So you want to make big money making a living as a contractor in the state of California. Well now I bet you have seen contractors on TV or maybe you know someone who is a contractor. You see these men and women playing the part as Mr. or Mrs. Money bags. If you have the slightest thought that becoming a contractor will provide you with a life of riches think again.

Most contractors that I know and have worked with over the years don't think of there jobs as easy. They have to work everyday and a lot into the night doing estimates or meeting with potential clients because they are to busy during the day. The life of most contractors in the beginning will be difficult to say the least. But if successful you will make a great living for yourself and your family.

Now that we got the false illusion of the contractor answering his cell phone all day at some nice golf course having lunch talking about the money that he just made selling his oil stocks. We can start on reality. If being a contractor was that easy everyone would be a contractor. Right..... Well maybe not everyone.

I have been a contractor for over 22 years and in construction for 30 year. I have seen a lot of changes over the years. I remember when a few contractors that I worked for made a lot of money during the late 1970's. These guys had Ferraris and money to burn with one exception they had no idea how to save any of it. These guys went on vacations and bought extravagant toys for them selves. Out of most of the big framing contractors I worked for about 10 percent are still in business or actually saved their money during the good times so that they could make it through the bad times.

These contractors never thought it was going to end. Life on easy street that is. But it did and most went by the way side. I guess that is the nature of business. Especially the current economic business cycles that we seem to go through over the years. If you don't have the money to advertise or carry a payroll. Your business is going to suffer during the bad times. Sure there is credit and bank loans but you still have to pay that money back. IF you can't save your money stash some away for advertising.

Some of the best advice I can give a contractor anywhere especially in the state of California is " Don't Think The Great Times Of Easy Money Will Last Forever". Save some of the money you make just in case you need to get through the bad times. You will thank me for this latter, Some time down the road. Take this advice and put it into action starting right now.

Greg Vanden Berge has over 30 years of experience in residential home building and remodeling. This provides you with the comfort of knowing that you have a professional with the knowledge and skills to complete your construction projects in a timely manner.

Our low overhead along with our new online estimating system will provide you with the most competitive construction pricing in the area. We continue to educate ourselves about the new home improvement books and building systems in the construction industry. If we have any doubt that something might not work we don't use it. We have found some of these products to be the root of some major home building problems.

Click on the Home Remodeling Ideas to get more information and a possible online estimate for your home improvement project.

Tile

Is Your Real Estate Agent in a Hurry?

If any of these statements sound familiar to you, it could mean that your real estate agent is either in hurry or doesn't have an answer to your question. Either way, this could lead to an unpleasant relationship.

Have You Ever Heard the Words:

Don't Worry about a Thing, Will Take Care of You.

Come on That Roof Will Last for Another 30 Years.

I Wouldn't Worry about That, That's Easy to Fix.

How Many Times Do I Have To Tell You, It's Not a Problem.

I'm on Your Side, There Won't Be Any Problems.

With a Little Bit of Caulking, You Won't Even Notice It.

Just Plant Some Bushes in Front of It and You'll Never See It.

The Floor Squeaks, That Gives the House Character.

Or What about the Ever Famous, Are You Going to Buy the House or Not.

Are any one of these experiences familiar to you? Don't be afraid to ask your questions again. Be firm when asking, but please don't be rude and if the answers don't sound right ask someone else to verify or ask your real estate professional if they are positive and know for a fact their answer is correct. It's always good to get a second opinion anyway.

You don't need to do business with anyone that will not answer your questions and is always trying to hurry you along. If you sign a purchasing agreement with a real estate professional you're not getting along with, ask them to let you out of the contract.

With no fees of course, there are other ways to purchase a home if your now old real estate agent doesn't want to play fair.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He has just finished a home buyers guide to take some of the frustration out of home shopping

If you're having problems with your real estate professional, you might give some thought to look in at some home foreclosures, and then contacting someone to help you, after you have found the home that you are looking for. Some real estate agents can be extremely unhelpful

Truck Damage To Roof

Stained Glass Construction

There are two ways to make stained glass, leaded or copper foiled. The major difference between the two is in the construction. With leaded stained glass, the glass is fitted into channels of lead came. In contrast, copper foiled stained glass is constructed by wrapping each piece of glass with copper foil.

Leaded stained glass historically is found in churches. It was during the Victoria Era where leaded stained glass was introduced into homes and has remained a popular method of constructing stained glass ever since.

Foiled stained glass was mastered by Tiffany in the early 1900's and soon after became a popular method for creating stained glass.

Common Questions:

Is one method better than the other?

The simple answer is no. A better answer is that it depends on the artist and the design.

What is the difference in leaded and foiled construction?

With leaded stained glass, the construction must begin at an outer corner, the individual pieces are fitted into lead came. Once all pieces are cut and placed in lead came, the joints of came are soldered. Then the piece is cemented.

With foiled stained glass, the construction can begin at any point in the design and worked out from there. The individual pieces are wrapped in copper foil and soldered together.

When is foiled stained glass construction better than lead?

With intricate designs, foiled construction is superior

When is lead construction better than foiled?

Leaded construction is used most often with designs that have repetitive geometric shapes. These designs can be foiled, but construction time is increased.

Which is easier?

There is no simple answer for this. It is really a personal preference. Leaded, foiled or combination of the two are used throughout the stained glass industry.

Is leaded or foiled construction better than the other?

No, each method, if done correctly, will provide the same long lasting beauty and endurance.

Why is foiled construction taught to beginners doing stained glass?

The cementing in leaded construction tends to be messy. Foiled construction can be started and stopped, making weekly classes work.

What are the steps for making leaded stained glass?

1. Stained glass is cut, shaped and fitted into channels of lead came.
2. Joints of lead came are soldered.
3. The piece is cemented
4. The piece is cleaned and polished

What are the steps for making foiled stained glass?

1. Stained glass is cut and shaped, and then each piece is wrapped in copper foil.
2. Copper foil seams are soldered together.
3. The piece is cleaned and polished.

My Personal Choice:

I tend to do a lot of intricate designs, so I use the foiled construction method. It provides the flexibility and detail I need for my designs.

Author: Maureen Summy
Creativity-in-Glass http://www.creativity-in-glass.com

If you would like more detailed information for making stained glass using the foiled method, check out http://www.creativity-in-glass.com/howtomakestainedglass.html

I started out as a stained glass admirer. After a class in stained glass, I became addicted. At first I made stained glass to decorate my homes, which lead to friends asking me to make stained glass for them. Now I am a full time professional making stained glass as well as instructing others on how to make stained glass. My studio is located outside of Chicago, Illinois. For more information on making stained glass go to http://www.creativity-in-glass.com

Install Roof Shingles - Home Tips

If you're serious about learning how to install roof shingles, you've come to the right place. But first let me tell you about a job I was on many years ago in Cape Coral, Florida...

It was a brand new house with a shingle roof. It also had a complicated roof design and six valleys. The builder went a little too far cost-cutting and hired a couple of day-laborers to shingle the house. He had paid them just $10 per square for 30 squares, a total of $300. All was fine and dandy until the first rain... when all six valleys leaked!

Of course the day laborers were long gone by then, which is just as well according to Einstein. He said that some problems can't be solved with the same mentality which created them in the first place! This was one of those problems.

That's when the builder called the small, but reputable roofing company I worked for.

The valley errors were all pretty obvious... and typical of the ones that rookies and poorly-trained roofers make. I will say this for them... they were consistent. All six valleys had exactly the same problems. And all six had to be completely re-laid, costing the builder more much more than he paid for the entire roof.

One of your biggest challenges when roofing your own home is the valleys. After repairing hundreds of them over the years, I see the same mistakes over and over. Here are the three most common problems... and how to avoid them!

How to Install Roof Shingles - Valley Tip #1

Valleys fill up with water during a big shower and some water ends up under the shingles. If the shingle nails are too close to the center of the valley, you can get a leak. That nail pattern you see on the shingle wrappers doesn't apply to the valleys. Keep your nails at least 12" away from the center of the valley.

How to Install Roof Shingles - Valley Tip #2

Shingle seams can also leak when they fall right in the valley. Keep the seams at least 12" away from the center of the valley by adjusting the length of the adjacent shingles on both sides.

How to Install Roof Shingles - Valley Tip #3

When cutting the top layer of shingles in a "half-weave" valley, many roofers cut into the bottom layer. Over the years, those cuts can open up, causing leaks. Make the cut carefully with some old tin snips, or use a hook blade and a scrap shingle to protect the bottom layer.

Of course there's a lot more involved in learning how to install roof shingles. To make the job easier and help you avoid big mistakes, go to: http://www.roofingsecrets.com

John C Bishop is the author of "Roofing Secrets: How to Avoid Leaks and Save Thousands of Dollars!"

Home Selling Books

Wood Window Blinds - Are They Right For You?

If you want to add elegance and charm to your home, consider installing wood window blinds. These blinds can be stained to match any dcor. They can be made from a variety of different woods to please even the pickiest home owner. Read on to discover some of the greatest advantages of choosing wood window blinds for your home.

Wood window blinds can be custom made to fit any window in your home. If you have a preference, you may choose the type of wood that you would like your blinds to be made from. Having wood window blinds will give you maximum privacy and add a sense of warmth to the room.

Wooden window blinds will also increase the energy efficiency of your home. They are very effective in keeping out the sun and heat on those hot summer days and they can keep the heat in your home and the cold out on those cold winter days.

Wood window blinds are usually more expensive than fabric blinds or aluminum blinds, but they are more durable. The initial investment will be worth it in the long run. Wood blinds have been known to increase the value of your home if you ever decide to sell.

However, if you don't have the money to invest in genuine wood window blinds, there are other options. You may choose faux wood blinds for your window covering. These blinds are less expensive and in most cases, it is hard to tell the difference between real wood and faux wood. They are durable and easy to clean.

Another advantage to the faux wood blinds is that they can be used in areas of high humidity. Real wood may be a problem in these areas due to warping or cracking of the wood. This is not a problem with the faux wood blind because they are made of a durable moisture resistant vinyl.

Keeping these blinds clean is very easy no matter if you choose real wood or faux wood. If you have real wood blinds, all you have to do is dilute some wood cleaner or polish in water and dip a towel or other soft cloth into the solution. Just wipe down the individual slats with this solution to remove dust and give the wood a nice shine.

Cleaning faux wood blinds is even easier. They can be vacuumed using the brush attachment. If they are soiled they can be wiped clean with warm water and a mild soap.

Comparison shop before you make the decision on what type of wood blinds to purchase. Consider your budget and lifestyle. If you plan on installing them yourself, make sure that you know how to do it correctly to prevent damage to the wood blind or your window. Once installed, sit back and enjoy your new wood window blinds.

By the way, you can learn more about Wood Window Blinds as well as more information on everything to do with wood blinds by visiting http://www.WoodBlindsA-z.com

Framing Wood Shower Pans - Bathroom Remodeling

Whether you live in a home that has a bathtub or a shower, there is a good chance that structural framing could be damaged if there was any water leaking around the plumbing fixtures. The damage should be repaired before framing your pan.

If you're replacing a bathtub and installing a new shower this is going to require constructing a wood shower pan. Now building a wood pan will require a level floor surface, shower damn and blocking.

Now let's start with building the shower damn. You're probably wondering what is a shower damn and what does it have to do with the wood shower pan. The shower damn is actually the area you climb over when entering into the shower. This part of the shower pan enables the water to flow off a shower curtain or door into the shower pan and down the drain.

The shower damn needs to be at the least 6 inches tall and would be best if it was at least 8 inches. You can use a 4 x 6 or a 4 x 8 for the wood shower damn.

Next we need to block the perimeter of the pan area in the wall framing that we will use for our shower walls also. These blocks should be at least 12 inches high. This would require using 2 x 12 lumber for blocking.

After you block the perimeter of the shower pan and installed the shower damn you are ready to have to shower water proffed with a process known as hot mopping the shower pan or using a vinyl liner.

Well I hope this gives you a better idea of what's involved when framing shower pans during the house framing process.

Greg Vanden Berge has been building and remodeling for over 30 years and his information has proven valuable to most contractors and homeowners all over the world. He usually tries to write at least two articles a day on home improvement or remodeling problems.

Greg is in the process right now of working on a home inspection website that will revolutionize the home inspection business. He is also working on a book to help homeowners and contractors as well as other home related professions in dealing with the home inspection process.

You can visit the home inspection website currently under construction at Home Inspection Help

Handyman Books

Gas Tankless Water Heater - Installation and Maintenance

When you talk about a gas tankless water heater, very few people know the work involved in installing one. All that people really think about when you say gas tankless water heater is a tankless water heater that is heated by using gas. That is actually true, but how it is installed and then how it is actually used to heat water is a more complicated matter altogether.

Gas Water Heater Installation 101

A lot of people out there are DIY enthusiasts that believe they can always do a cheaper and better job at installing something than some overpriced professional out there. While that might be true in some aspects, installing the gas pipes and vents needed for a gas tankless water heater may require a little bit more than your average or above average building skills. Installation for these gas pipes require professionals who know the risks and safety measures needed to ensure that there are no leakages that can cause fires and accidents. A gas water heater, if installed inside the house, will need to have a gas pipe run to its heating system to fuel the burners that are used to heat up the passing water. Vents also need to be installed to ventilate the unit. There are gas tankless water heater units that can be installed outdoors. These kinds of tankless gas water heaters, like the Bosch 2400EO-NG natural gas outdoor water heater, helps eliminate the need for vents.

Are They Worth It?

This question has been asked about a lot of things. Jewelry, expensive clothes, women and gas tankless water heaters. About the others, you draw your own answers, about the water heater, favorable reviews say, YES. Not only do you have hot water in almost an instant but you have more of it as compared to having a hot water tank. While they might cost a bit more than the tank versions, they do save you more in the long run and are a whole lot safer. These things do have their flaws however, since instantaneous hot water may not be that instantaneous with a lag time of a few seconds to a few minutes, depending upon your present plumbing situation. They are, however, worth it considering the alternatives and the benefits you get from such a small piece of equipment.

Dean Iggo is the webmaster of Tankless Water Heaters review. A website providing unbiased reviews and ratings of the top selling brands of tankless waterheater including Bosch, Titan, Rheem, Rinnai and more.

Books on Home Building - Professional Advice

If you're a do it yourself or or a homeowner who every once in a while, once to tackle a small or large project but doesn't know where to begin, can gather useful information from home building books. I have been using these books for years and may have been worth their weight in gold.

I started my career working for my father and my father worked for his father as a Carpenter. Our job was to frame the house and we built a Lotta homes. I learned how to frame and developed some great carpentry skills from my father and working with other skilled carpenters. Over the years, if you're paying attention, even a monkey can figure out, how to assemble almost anything.

The only problem that I faced, was learning how to build the rest of the home. I would often ask questions to other building trades like plumbers, electricians, roofers and construction superintendents. Some of these people were helpful and others were not. When I was in my early 30s, I purchased my first book on home building. This book lead to other books and soon I found myself with more home building knowledge that my father.

I had about 50 books on home building and soon found myself doing large home remodels, with no formal education. I would attribute almost everything that I learned outside of house framing to books. These books have proven invaluable to me over the years and with a relatively small investment. I couldn't have spent over $200 purchasing these books but have used the knowledge from them to save myself thousands of dollars.

One $20 home building books or home repairs, can save you lots of money, if you're willing to do a little research and the labor to complete almost any home building project.

By the way, if you're interested in learning how to repair a roof, build your own house, interior decorating, structural engineering, building a deck, gathering some more information about home painting or even remodeling your bathroom. An online home building bookstore can save you money if you're willing to do the work.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He has just finished a Home Buyers Guide to take some of the frustration out of home shopping

If your looking for some more home inspection or home building ideas

Uncover The Truth About A Hunter Air Purifier

The homes we live in now days are so air tight, that they can actually be harmful to our health. Since they are such an enclosed area, we end up breathing the same air over and over again. A hunter air purifier can help bring fresh air into the home. They can help filter the air of unwanted particles that are floating in the air. Most people don't even think about what they are breathing, especially in their own home, because after all, that's your own safe place. Why would we be thinking of it as an unsafe place to breathe in. This article will uncover the truth about a hunter air purifier and the benefits of using an air purifier in your home.

Most women like to think that they keep a pretty clean home. They may spend hours vacuuming, dusting, mopping, and scouring only to find a few hours later that the end tables are dusty again. What's up with that. A hunter air purifier can help get rid of the dust that already has begun being stirred up. An air purifier is designed to draw the dust into it's filtering system. It then releases the filtered air back into the room so you will have cleaner, fresher air to breathe. Most vacuums release a certain amount of dust as you are vacuuming because, even though you are cleaning up debris on the floor, dust is also being stirred up, and you can even see it floating in the air at times. A hunter air purifier will help trap the dust that is found floating about.

If you suffer from allergies, then you know that dust, dust mites, pollen, mold spores, pet dander and tobacco smoke can very easily stir up an allergy attack. A hunter air purifier will help trap any of these things and leave them in the filtering system. The air purifier will then blow back into the room the new clean air. I'm sure you can see the benefits of using an air purifier in your home. There are many sizes and styles to choose from and a hunter air purifier can be placed in any room of the home. An air purifier for the home is usually a portable unit that just plugs in to any outlet. A little research can help you decide what you are looking for on a hunter air purifier. Don't hold your breath on this, because if you are one of the many asthma sufferers, every day of breathing bad air can be devastating to your health.

For more information on Air Cleaners and Purifiers for your home or business try visiting air-cleaners-and-purifiers, a website that specializes in providing helpful tips, advice and Air Cleaners and Purifiers resources to include Hunter Air Purifier and more.

Even Peeping Toms Will Like Your Faux Wood Blinds

The most energy-efficient window covering available today is cellular shades. They have a honeycomb structure that traps air for maximum energy efficiency and sound reduction. They're going to give you a great number of options when it comes to controlling the light and they have wonderful cordless feature. When fully raised they do not obstruct a major portion of your view either. They reduce noise, help you enjoy your view, great for privacy, lower heating and cooling costs and are child-safe.

Wooden blinds add a special touch of warmth and richness to your room and will create a room where you can re-energize, letting your creative juices flow with the clean lines of natural wood. They come in a wide range of slat sizes ranging from 1 inch up to 3 inches as well as a full range of finishes and control possibilities. They're great energy savers, reduce glare, good for privacy, great for hard to reach windows and are child-safe. Faux wood blinds are some of the most popular on the market today. They can be opened or closed by tilting the slats for light control and privacy.

They look and feel like wood, but one of the most attractive features is their discount price. The colour selection is rather limited and may require a great number of ladders to support their less rigid faux wood slats. They are recommended in areas where there is high humidity, and are excellent for game rooms or other demanding areas. They will create a nice modern look with a budget-friendly price. Aluminium mini blinds are a great, low-cost, durable solution, especially if your budget is a priority. They come in a variety of slat sizes from the 1-inch mini to the 2-inch macro. They will create a modern, contemporary look, having a cordless option for the children's room, and will also give you a great updated look with a budget-friendly price.

Best known for covering patio doors and wide windows, vertical blinds are tried and true. You can purchase them in fabric vanes or vinyl along with various textures and colours. If you want to create that perfect retro look or add a sleek modern twist to your room, these blinds are perfect for that purpose. They're great for use in high-humidity areas, as well as offering style and reducing noise. A timeless and classic blind is the roller blind or roller shade. Available in numerous decorative trim styles and fabrics, they truly offer you a unique look. You'll find that these roller window blinds come in bead-chained loops or spring lifts that are both child-friendly styles.

Roller shades are recommended for anyone that wants a modern look with a budget friendly price and they are also great for children's rooms. Woven wood blinds are both zen and contemporary, and will produce harmony and tranquility in your home. Woven wood comes in grass cloth, bamboo or matchstick blinds. This great blind will bring nature's authenticity indoors to you. They will allow you to express your personal style, and most manufacturers have valences along with decorative trims and finishes. You will also find decorative banding, privacy liners and the option of either a bottom-up or top-down feature. They offer you such benefits as reduced noise and casual harmony, and are really great for keeping your privacy.

Roman shades offer warmth and richness and will help you create your private hideaway to help you relax and unwind. They help one connect with the calming softness and revitalizing comfort that their fashion fabric design creates. Roman shades will soften and accent your windows. There is no primping or fussing and they allow you to easily control light and privacy with light filtering or room darkening fabrics and liners. Sheer shades work like cellular shades and wood blinds all in one.

They offer you privacy and will filter light. Some of the more popular horizontal sheer shades or blinds include Hunter Douglas Silhouette and Comfortex Shangrila. Sheer shades are going to give you a clean contemporary look, offer remote control for hard to reach windows and are excellent for controlling light and privacy with filtering or room dimming fabrics. Electric or automatic blinds are essentially a form of motorized blind and are going to make your life easy!

They're great for hard to reach windows, increase energy efficiency and personal security, and you can even set the timer to raise and lower your blinds at specific times. The best part about this great blind is there is no wiring required! Some of the benefits include, increased energy efficiency since they are on a timer, increased security and peace of mind when you are home alone, and great control for hard to reach windows. They even make it easy to control light into a home theatre area.

Pleated window shades and pleated blinds are a designer's dream. They offer the depth of colour and texture that woven fabric brings. In addition to stylish fabrics, they will allow the right amount of light into your room as they come in sheer, semi-sheer, light filtering or opaque. They're tremendously versatile and functional for giving you light control. They offer traditional value at an affordable price, and you can even add a pleated shade liner. The benefits include rich colours and textures to accent your windows that will create a fresh look with a budget-friendly price.

For that arched window, arch window treatments give you back control over the sun and allow you to enjoy your room once again. They are either fixed or movable window coverings. Available in wood or cellular fabrics, they are made from the finest of materials that will last. Distinctive designs and inviting accents are used to define the shape of your arch window to make it the focal point of your experience. Use these blinds to block the sun's glare and heat, and open up your room to more light while keeping it private.

Arch window treatments give you back control over the sun and allow you to enjoy your room once again. Arch window shades can be either fixed or moveable coverings. Arch window blinds are available in wood and cellular fabrics. Our arch window blinds are made of the finest materials, for an arch window treatment that will last. Arch window shades use distinctive and inviting accents; arch blinds define the shape of the arch window making it a focal point of your experience - to relax and rejuvenate.

Lastly, skylight blinds are perfect for taking back your room from the blinding and baking sun that makes it so hot and uncomfortable. This great blind is available in light-filtering or room-darkening fabrics, and can be operated manually or you can get motorized ones. They offer the benefits of energy savings by lowering heating and cooling costs, and they significantly reduce light in media rooms with sidetracks to block light. They will reduce noise and are easy to operate for hard to reach windows when motorized. Whatever your lifestyle requires, there is a window covering to make it more pleasant.

Terry Price is a successful web publisher & expert author and is a regular contributor to http://www.best-window-blinds-shutters.com/faux-wood-blinds.html Find just that special window covering for any season or lifestyle: http://www.best-window-blinds-shutters.com/113-arch-blind-window-wood.html

Do it Yourself Home Security Systems Comparisons - Research the Products and Options

The modern world for all its fascinating advances still can be less than safe. There are lots of dangers out there that may present themselves to our lives at some time. This is why many people install a security system for their homes and their possessions. There are many different systems available to consumers today, so it is important that you learn how to do 'do it yourself home security systems comparisons'. Renters as well as homeowners can benefit from the safety offered.

It's obvious to anyone who looks that home security systems vary widely. For example, do it yourself home security systems comparisons might search for the best wireless home security systems or a wired alternative. It's always best to make sure you know what's available before looking for the best of those systems. You can do so by conducting your own research.

Lots of firms provide installation at no extra charge on a high proportion of their security systems. One can economize by buying diy wireless home security systems too. They are not as expensive as the ones from services which include installation with no fee added. This is their best feature of all. They may come with cameras, alarms, motion sensors, and fire detectors. Some of them can be turned on and off by remote control or telephone. In addition, there are models which automatically notify the homeowner if something bad happens.

Do it yourself home security systems comparisons are available online. The topic is addressed on various websites through reviews and articles. It is helpful to read what others have to say so that you can learn from their experiences and hardships. Learning by following the advice of others is crucial to your success in any area of interest.

You are not able to put a price on the safety of you and your family. That is why home security systems are so important to you and your loved ones. Purchasing a security system is like purchasing peace of mind. Such peace of mind will allow you to worry less about someone breaking into your home or perhaps harming your family!

Plenty of reliable security systems are out there, you'll find - the most important thing is to find one that meets the needs of your unique situation. For example, if you have the ability to complete the installation yourself, then your needs will be different from someone who is searching to hire an installation or monitoring company. In either case, plenty of worry can be averted through do it yourself home security systems comparisons.

Nowadays, shoppers can choose from all sorts of security systems, so you should learn how to perform do it yourself home security systems comparisons and contrasts. Even rental tenants derive advantages from the extra safety these systems provide. As you research the various models, be sure to check out the outstanding wired ones as well as the best wireless home security systems while you're at it. You can also save some money by purchasing a system known as diy wireless home security systems. You will see that these systems really cost less than those from companies that offer free installation.

Inspector Looking At Ceiling

Bathtub Surround Installation DIY Guide

You can install a tub surround kit over your regular walls, whether they be tile or any other hard, solid material. Typically, you want to consider bathtub surround installation if the current walls of your bath area are dated or unattractive.

Generally, you'll need a small screwdriver, pencil, pocket knife, tape measure, level, and a jig saw. You'll also want to make sure that you have an installation kit, adhesive with the proper applicator, coarse sandpaper, and caulk.

When using a tub surround installation kit, each will have their own directions specific to that product kit. You want to make sure that your read the directions carefully and thoroughly.

You'll want to following the following general directions when installing your tub surround.

First, you'll want to remove the spout, faucet handles, and all accessories from around the bath tub, and set them aside.

You'll want to go ahead and repair the damaged areas on the current walls that surround the tub, and if you will be installing over ceramic tile, you'll want to use the coarse sandpaper to enhance the grip abilities of the adhesive.

Clean the area between the tub and the wall, and re-caulk if you need to.

Next, you'll want to mark the bathtub surround installation area, including the location of the faucet, spout, and whatever else will stick out of the wall; cut out the areas on the template and use them to mark the location on the tub surround panels and use the jig saw to cut out the holes.

You'll want to next hold the panels in place according to the manufacturers instructions and mark the location of the top and sides on the wall so that you can make sure that the panels will be level.

Next, apply the adhesive according the the manufacturer's directions, paying close attention to the time you should expose the glue before affixing the panels because if you don't allow enough time, the adhesive will not bond properly.

Once you attach the panels to the wall, according to the manufacturer's instructions, you'll want to let the tub adhesive dry properly before turning on the water. Go ahead and replace the faucet, spout, and other accessories at this time.

Lastly, you'll want to seal all the joints with caulk and letting that dry before turning on the water to the tub.

Bathtub surround installation is a pretty easy do it yourself project. Just make sure that you have help with the project, and if you get lost call a professional. Source: Bathtubinstallationinc dot com, Louis Zhang

Get a free guide on bathtub installation. Find out how to install bathtub surround, drain, shower head, faucet, plumbing at http://www.bathtubinstallationinc.com

Bathroom Remodelling - A Few Short Tips

Everybody would prefer to complete their bathroom remodelling on the quick. Replace the Vanity and Medicine Cabinet, toilet, bathtub, and wash basin and hey presto. If only it were that simple. Bathroom Remodelling does not have to be hard however; if you know what you are trying to achieve before you start then half of the battle is won already. Any bathroom renovation can be a pleasurable and demanding task that can take your benchmark bathroom and change it into a room that is relaxing, and has your personal moniker on it. These days, home personalization is a very significant part when it comes to successful interior decorating.

When it comes to the bathroom, there are several different renovations that can be performed. If you ever had the ambition of finding out as much as possible when it comes to bathroom renovations, talk to the experts at bathroom retailers and DIY specialists they don't bite honest!

Knowing how to replace a bathroom floor can be difficult. Replacing the floor from the outset will help you give it a probably much needed facelift by first removing and then installing a new floor. It will make you bathroom look so different right from the offset. Then comes the replacements of the bathroom suite, shower, WC, tiles and last of all ceiling paint and lighting. Many tradesmen will tell you to work from the bottom upwards in bathrooms. But think about it logically. It doesn't really matter. The most important thing is getting the suites and bathroom faculties plumbed in before the floor, wall tiles, lighting and paint is applied.

For more information on finding suitable bathroom items visit Bathrooms Cheaper

Lee Tyrrell of Bathrooms Cheaper

Home Remodeling Books

Got Your Tankless Water Heater Yet?

Haven't Gotten Your Tankless Water Heater Yet?

Well, I'm not sure what's stopping you. My tankless water heater is one of the best appliances I've ever purchased and installed. It's one of those types of things you end up asking yourself "Why didn't I do this before?" Every day I look at my new water heater I'm amazed by it. Let me enumerate the reasons:

I'm amazed by its size. I have an electric Titan tankless water heater and so help me it's only slightly larger than a yellow pages phone book and it's no more than about two and a half inches thick. There are no moving parts except for a control knob on the front of the unit. Remarkable.

I'm amazed by its power. How something so small can produce an ENDLESS amount of hot water without the fear of running out, regardless of how many back to back showers we take, is way, way beyond me. I'm sure the propane and gas tankless units do the same. And I live in New Hampshire and have well water that's COLD! Maybe it's because I'm so accustomed to seeing five foot high monoliths that were required to do the same task. It's a 60 amp, 240v system. Piece o' cake.

I'm amazed by its cost savings. I immediately noticed a 30% reduction in my electric bill after replacing the TWO pieces of junk that were there cycling on and off 24 hours a day. With this water heater it only calls for electricity when the unit calls for hot water. Not a second sooner. And there's no need for wrapping it in an insulation blanket either because there's no standing water that can cool down only to need to be reheated. Imagine what savings you'd find with your gas or propane water heater.

I'm amazed by the ease of installation. I used PEX for the plumbing, wired it myself to its own 60 amp breaker using six gauge wire and the whole process took less than 2 hours. It would have taken less time, but, I'm not a plumber or electrician by trade. Since there's no joints to sweat using PEX, everything was just snap and go. The Titan tankless water heater is just mounted on the wall. Almost like a painting. No bulky tanks to move around and no need for reserving a large space for it.

I've got my tankless water heater installed. And though mine is made by Titan you can also get great units from Bosch, Rinnai and Takagi just to name a few. So, when are going to install yours?

http://gotankless.info

There's whole lot more of information about tankless water heaters out there besides what I've written here. Check it out at: http://gotankless.info.

Long Dryer Vent Problems

Shopping Online For Your Bathroom Vanity

Shopping online for bathroom vanities and vanity cabinets can be a smart way to remodel your bathroom. Not only will you be able to find more choices than you might in a regular supply store, but you will also be able to compare prices to see if you're getting the best deal possible. However, with these benefits come responsibility on your part to know what you're choosing and whether it's the right fit for you. Here's a primer that will help you find the best cabinet or vanity for your needs - at a great price.

Know your size

The first thing you will want to do is measure the distance from the wall to where you want the front of your vanity to be. Most bathroom vanities can be found in widths of under thirty inches to up to six feet. While you might want bathroom vanities to be larger in order to store more things, this can also cause your bathroom to appear cramped and much smaller than it really is. To help you with your measurement, you may want to find a cardboard box that can simulate the various sizes of bathroom cabinets online in order to get a clear mental picture of what your bathroom might look like once it's installed.

Know the wood color and texture

Just as there are hundreds of bathroom vanities, there are dozens of colors that you can choose from in terms of vanities. Some of the more traditional colors include wood veneers like cherry, maple, oak, and walnut. You can also find natural woods that are merely covered with a shiny sealant. Or you may opt for a glass cabinet or shelving system. You might also want to choose a particular color that falls in line with a theme that you have picked out. No matter what color you choose, you will want to ask for a clear picture of the cabinet first before you actually purchase it. A computer screen can sometimes distort the color that you see on the website.

Know the type of cabinet you want

While it seems fairly obvious what vanity cabinets are, bathroom vanities can range in size, shape, and purpose so you will want to know what's out there before you start shopping. Some of the common types of cabinets include:

" Shelving - This can be open, recessed, surface mounted or be placed in a corner. Choosing shelving means that any items that are stored here will be in plain view of anyone in the bathroom.
" Cabinets - Just like the name, these bathroom cabinets will be fully enclosed with doors of wood, glass or another material.
" Countertops - What type of countertop do you want
" Sink - The vanity that you choose may be determined partly by the type of sink that you want. If you want a vessel sink, you must find a vanity that accommodates that type of sink. If you want an undermount sink, then you should narrow your search to those vanities that have that type of sink.

When you're online

Knowing what the descriptions mean when you're shopping online for websites will allow you to pick the best fit for your needs as well as receive the cabinets that you really wanted. Most online retailers of bathroom vanities and vanity cabinets will have a customer service phone number that you should utilize if you have any questions.

For a site that's as helpful as they are stocked with the cabinets you need and want, go to http://www.discountbathroomvanities.com

Dave Robert is a district sales manager at Discount Bathroom Vanities Publishing, and an avid fixer-upper who's been restoring old houses for more than twenty years. Readers can tap into Dave's knowledge about home remodeling, and kitchen and bathroom design, at: http://www.DiscountBathroomVanities.com

Extreme Temperature Building

Hiring a Contractor For Bathroom Remodeling - Remodeling Contractors

Well here's the age old question, how do we go about finding a decent bathroom remodeling contractor.

Here's some things you will be looking for in a contractor.

1. Is Your Contractor Fair and Honest?

2. Does Your Contractor Have Experience Remodeling and Designing Bathrooms?

3. Can You Actually Find a Contractor Who Will Complete the Job in a Timely Manner?

4. Do You Think the Workers Will Be Able to Clean the Job up Daily?

5. Will the Contractor Show up on Time?

6. Is the Contractor Going to Work At Least Eight Hours a Day?

7. Does the Contractor's Crew Have Experience?

8. Is Your Contractor and His Crew Courteous?

If you find a contractor for your bathroom remodeling project that has answered yes to all questions above, hire that person immediately. Most contractors can sincerely answer yes to half of the questions above. If you're looking for the ultimate bathroom remodeling contractor, you could be searching for quite a while, you're looking for some one that is competent and you feel comfortable with.

When hiring a contractor, look for someone who has your interest in mind first and not theirs. Find someone who is willing to help with the designed process of your bathroom and the remodeling. If you find a contractor to be arrogant or controlling, there is a good chance, your bathroom might not turn out the way you envision it.

When hiring a contractor for your bathroom remodeling project or any home improvement project, the most important thing to keep in mind is, whether or not you feel comfortable with this person or not. Never hire a contractor you're not comfortable with.

If a contractor is referred to you by someone you trust, this does not guarantee you will be happy with the bathroom remodel. Most referrals that I have gotten over the years are like rolling the dice, I believe I would have done just as good picking a name out of a hat.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He is currently working on more building stairs and adding useful content to help solve problems created by the lack of construction knowledge in the building industry.

Stair Building Books

Where do we go to buy stair building books? Do we go to the major retailers like Amazon or Barnes & Noble? I have found over the years the information in most of these books I have purchased from these stores has a lot of fluff with very little common sense stair building application.

I bought one stair building book that had information on handrails. The front cover looked great and I thought this was going to be a great book reading the reviews from Amazon. When I finally got the book in the mail, I would say about one third of it was math tables for building elaborate wooden hand railing's. These tables were not easy to understand along with the rest of the book.

Back when I bought the book on building stair handrails it dawned on me that most of the construction workers I have met during my 30 years of working in the field were not very good outside of basic math. Now I knew a lot of carpenters that could read a measuring tape and use a framing square pretty good. But when it came to advanced geometrical construction projects like a stair hand railing system this was out of our league.

Reading this book or should I say parts of it gave me an idea to write a book of my own, starting with basic stair building I took all the fluff or the hard to understand advanced stair building applications out of my book, How to Build a Straight Set of Stairs.

I put a lot of time into creating an illustration for every possible part of building a simple set of stairs. I have probably built over 2000 sets of stairs during my lifetime and have explained and taught basic and advanced stair building to other carpenters. Understanding what parts of the stair construction process they understood, I was able to improve my skills as a stair building teacher.

Most people do not need advanced stair building skills to construct a simple straight set of stairs. If you are building a straight set of stairs and would like a stair building book with lots of easy to understand illustrations along with simplified directions you have found it.

We're building more stair building books to help contractors, carpenters, handymen and homeowners understand the stair building process.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He is currently working on more building stairs books and adding useful content to help solve problems created by the lack of construction knowledge in the building industry.

Hot Moped Shower Floor Pan

Moisture Against Gravity - Destroying Walls

Well I'm going to start this article with a little information on a job I did once.

I had been repairing a rental house for one particular homeowner for about three years when all of a sudden I got a phone call from him telling me the rental house was destroyed and he had never seen nothing like this. He sounded so upset over the phone I told him I would meet with him immediately.

On my way to the house I was trying to get an idea in my head what the house was going to actually look like. Since I have been repairing rental properties for over 20 years at this point of my career, nothing really shocked me. I had pretty much seen everything that could possibly be done to rental property by the tenants that lived there. There is a lot to be said about taking care of it as if it were your own.

He was waiting for me at the front door and he looked thoroughly disgusted. As I approached him he was shaking his head and yelling at the same time can you believe these people, can you believe what they did to my house. I was expecting to see the front door ripped off and all the windows broken out of the house but this wasn't the case.

As he led me through the home and I could see the usual clothing on the floor, broken cabinets, a few holes in the walls and of course that awful smell of mold and mildew. All of this stuff was nothing new to me because I'm the guy they call to fix it when a renter moves out of the property.

As I entered one of the bedrooms I got my first glimpse of something I had never seen before but heard stories about and could not believe my eyes. Looking at the walls in the bedroom about 3 feet from the floor all the way around the room, the plaster was soft. It actually looks like someone shoved popcorn into the wall somehow.

The homeowner wasn't even looking at this because of the rest of the damage in the home. I started to explain to him I'd never seen nothing like this but I could guess it was water damage somehow since the plaster was soft. I could actually stick my finger into the wall, that's how soft the plaster was.

My first thought was to examine the carpeting a little closer to see if it was wet. Well it was damp but it wasn't as wet as I would've expected it to be with the amount of water in the walls. With a little more home inspecting I had found the culprit, it was a broken water bed. The water bed was now in the backyard looking innocent.

I couldn't believe a broken water bed could do this much damage so I looked around for broken or leaking water pipes and could not find any. The other bad news I had to inform the homeowner was that the water had damage the bathroom and closet walls also. These walls of course were on the other side of the bathroom walls that were damaged.

Well the point of this story is that water will actually wick its way up or worked its way up into a wall. I had to remove 4 feet of drywall all the way around the room. The plaster or drywall actually acts like a sponge pulling the water into the walls. Hard to imagine that gravity in this case seems to reverse. I would've never thought that water would've traveled so far up the walls creating that much damage.

To repair the rental property I had to remove the damaged drywall, remove the carpeting, dry the wood framing out and put the whole thing back together.

I'm still amazed and will remember that project for as long as I live.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He is currently working on more Building and Remodeling Library and adding useful content to help solve problems created by the lack of construction knowledge in the building industry.

Visit us and get more information on House Water Damage

Inspector Looking At Ceiling

Tuscan Decor in the Guest Room

If you have a guest room in your home, then it's there for one main reason - to make your guest feel at home while they are visiting.

Of course, any visitor will be spending most of their time with you, in the living room or traveling about the local area, but they'll want a place where they can retreat during the day to rest, as well as a place to retire in the evening - a little slice of home away from home.

In order to give your guest room that Tuscan look, there are a few items to consider.

Lighting

The lighting fixtures are important. Remove those shiny, modern fixtures of aluminum, and replace them with rustic designs - wall sconces of wrought iron, for example, or other types of metal with a distressed look to simulate age, with the decoration as scrollwork simulating grape vines.

Windows

Direct sunlight, over the course of time, will fade and damage fabrics and furniture, nevertheless it's always nice to be able to spread open the draperies to allow sunlight to flow into a room. For the Tuscan look, don't use a lot frills. Use plain draperies, with plenty of fabric gathered today, in shades of beige or brown or gold, so that their hues can be enhanced by the sunlight.

The Walls

Wall color is important as it gives the overall tone of the entire room. Golds and browns are popular colors, but what particularly evokes the feel of Tuscany is to give the walls an aged patina by using faux paint to make them resemble old, crumbling brick or plaster.

The Floor

For a true Tuscan look, aged hardwood floors, marble or tiled floors are a must. However, these types of floor can be expensive, and for a guest room that is only used once or twice a year, it may be an expense you don't want to incur. However, plenty of throw rugs with Tuscan designs scattered around the floor can give the appropriate feel as well.

Tuscan designs? Where are you going to get those? Easy - surf the web for Tuscan rugs and you'll find a vast array of authentic Tuscan designs.

Furniture

The bed, of course, is the main piece of furniture in the guest-room. No modern bedsteads with gleaming metal - choose wooden bedframes, ornately carved with bunches of grapes, for example, The blankets, bedspreads and pillows on the guest bed should be of dull colors invoking the earth or sky tans, browns, golds or blues.

If possible, the bookcases, bureaus and wardrobes and other furniture in the room should be of wood as well, very light or very dark-colored woods to give a sturdy, aged look. Antique furniture will give the appropriate look.

Accessories

The look of Tuscany is the look of the land - a land with rolling hills, vineyards, a vast blue bowl-like sky, and farmhouses that have been there for centuries. Accessories should call out this atmosphere of permanence - majolica or ceramic pottery, wrought iron candle holders, and so on.

Adam Peters is the author and editor of many wooden shutters articles and newsletters published at http://www.home-decorating-reviews.com Find more publications about tuscan decor at his website.

Home Theater Books

How to Replace your Broken Oven Element

The oven element in your electric range can burn out at any time. Unfortunately it always seems to happen at the most inopportune times, such as the week before Christmas or Thanksgiving.

Most elements do give warnings before burning out. They will often have a bright spot that will be noticed by the homeowner, just prior to burning out. If your element has a bright spot replace it as soon as possible. Waiting for the element to burn out is inadvisable because the oven thermostat or other electric components can be affected.

In all aspects of this job safety must come first. Use only the manufacturers original parts, not a cheaper substitute. Only attempt this repair when you have enough time, and patience, to do it properly. Remember, you will be dealing with 240 volts - thats twice as much power as flows through your regular household circuits. Only attempt this repair with another adult present.

If you feel confident in your ability to safely replace an oven element then try the following method:

1 Disconnect range from electrical power, either by unplugging or turning off breakers. Pull range away from wall so all sides can be accessed.

2 Remove rear panel of range to expose the element wiring. Identify which element you suspect being burnt out.

3 Carefully remove the element wiring. They are usually screwed on connections. Avoid breaking the connections or stripping the screw head with your screwdriver.

4 Go to the front of the range. Locate the screws securing the element within the oven cavity. This may require a flashlight because they are usually covered in debris. Again use caution not to harm the screw heads. The screws may be very tight and will require patience to remove without harming. If the screws will not turn they will have to be drilled out using a high-speed drill. If this becomes necessary use caution not to chip the oven interior.

5 Remove the oven element. If its broken avoid touching the pieces with your bare hands. The pieces can be very sharp. Plus, the white powdered insulation contains harmful chemicals.

6 Proceed to a parts store to obtain a replacement. Make certain you have your make, model, and serial number. Manufacturers use a vast variety of elements. Each model, type, configuration, and wattage requirements will determine which element was installed in your range.

7 Install the new element and secure it with the screws. If the holes in the mounting plate dont align you will have to drill holes in the cabinet interior. Carefully drill holes in the cabinet using a high-speed drill. Use caution not to let drill slip to avoid damaging or chipping the interior liner.

8 From the rear of the range reconnect the element wiring. Dont bent the electrical connections or allow the screws to strip the threads. If the wiring is burnt the insulation must be cut back to expose undamaged wire. Cut the insulation back using a knife or wire-stripping tool.

9 With the new element installed plug the range back into the electricity. Start the oven and allow to run for five minutes. Disconnect the electricity and quickly feel the wiring insulation at the element connections. They should feel slightly warm, but not hot. A hot connection indicates a poor connection, or the possible failure of other components associated with the oven. If hot, it will be necessary to remove it and redo. Once satisfied with connections replace the rear panel and reinstall into counter.

10 Test the oven operation. All elements should go off and on as per normal.

11 Final step is to do a test run of the oven temperature. If you have an oven thermometer allow the oven to cycle off three or four times at a regular baking temperature. The thermometer should indicate same temperature at which the oven dial is set. As a confirmation bake something such as muffins or cookies as your test substance.

As the preceding has shown, replacing a burnt element is not a difficult repair. But, it is certainly one that should only be attempted by someone who is confident around electricity. If you are uncertain about your ability around high voltage, telephone an appliance repairperson for help.

An appliance repairperson can have your element replaced, tested, and operating in less than an hour. Less time than it will take you to find the part. Also, they will have all the tools and testers required to do the job quickly and safely.

Copyright 2006 Donald Grummett. All rights reserved. Need answers about repairs and maintenance of Household Appliances? With 35 years experience Donald Grummett can help. Visit http://www.mgservices.ca to learn much more invaluable information.

Advantages of Framing With Steel Studs

I have heard all sorts of stories over the years of the advantages in framing with steel versus wood studs. One time I even heard you could build an entire house with the amount of recycled steel from a large automobile such as a Cadillac. I find this hard to believe unless you're building a very small home.

My personal favorite for framing with steel studs is that they are extremely straight. I have built nonbearing partition walls using 12 foot 3 1/2 inch wide steel studs and after the drywall you can lay an 8 foot level to check it for straightness on the wall with amazing results.

If you use 3 1/2 inch wide steel studs with 5/8 of an inch drywall you will get an extremely durable and sturdy wall. Framing was steel studs is common in office renovations or remodeling. Most of the steel stud framing is done via the drywall contractors.

Steel studs and termites do not mix. You'll never have to worry about these little buggers or other uninvited house pests damaging your walls.

Over the years I have heard stories that steel framed buildings are earthquake and fire proof. They might be more resistant to fire than wood but keep in mind when metal is hot enough it will bend and warp making it unusable.

When I hear people talking about a fireproof building built with metal framing components my first thought is all of the other materials used in building the house that are not fire resistant. Don't get a false illusion when buying a house framed with steel studs and think it is 100% fire proof.

As far as steel framed buildings being earthquake proof this is another story. I really can't comment too much on earthquake damage to a steel building. The problem with earthquakes is they seem to create fires. So even if you're building does survive an earthquake it could get damaged by a fire in the area.

I have framed more wood homes than steel homes over the years and my steel stud construction is limited to nonbearing partition walls usually located in office buildings. I love framing with metal because of its light weight and ease of construction.

I still love framing with wood. There is something about what framing that I have always loved and always will.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as

well as the weekend warriors. He is currently working on more Building and Remodeling Library and adding useful content to help solve problems created by the lack of construction knowledge in the building industry.

Visit us and get more information on House Framing Ideas

Contractor Web Design - Content Critical!

When a customer calls you to schedule an appointment for service, how do you "sell" them on your company. Do you use glossy handouts? Do you use your knowledge of your service to convince them to use you? Are you and your sales help just charismatic? Or do you build a relationship with them in order to earn their business? Or do you simply use a mix of all of the points above? If you're like most contractors, it's probably a mix. When closing a sale as a contractor, in most instances, you must draw on all of your options to sell the customer. It is the same when developing a contractor web design. You must gather a reasonable mix of flash, knowledge, expertise and past experience to convince your prospect to do business with you over your competitors. Even if you're not a good writer, the benefit of developing your contractor web design around great content is of great importance. The content is what your prospects are looking for to make a solid buying decision before they even talk to a live human.

To accomplish this, you must first get your arms around what caused your prospects to do business with you offline. As above, is it because you're a nice person or is it because they have confidence in your abilities because of the information you have shared with them. Let me save you some time thinking about the right answer to the question. There isn't one answer! Every prospect is different than another. some prospects won't do business with you unless they view you as a friend, others have to be given ALL of the information every created before making a decision to buy and still others will draw information out of you just for the sake of qualifying you as the company for them! So when developing a contractor web design, all of the different ways you sell your offline customers must be incorporated into your website.

The key to a successful "pre-selling" contractor web design is to engage the online viewer as completely ignorant of your business process. I don't mean in a condescending way, but you will have as diverse a viewership on the web as you do in your everyday business, if not more diverse. So, in order to inform as completely as possible, you need to give more information than you ever dreamed to your online prospect. The concept quite simply is to give the most uninformed and the most informed equal amounts of solid information about your company, its processes and the services you provide.

For example, if you are a general contractor and your specialty is custom homes, how important would it be to tell your customers about the products that you use in the homes you build, that make them better than those of your competition. The reality is, the components that you use in your homes may in fact be the same exact ones your competition uses, but do you think your competitor is sharing this basic information with his prospects? Probably not! What this does is creates a relationship with your prospects and gives them illusion of superior quality that is exclusive when doing business with your company over your competitors. In a similar example, if you are a window and door contractor and you fill the voids between the window frame and the opening with foam insulation, do you think this is worthy to mention in your contractor web design? Absolutely! Again, just about all window and door replacements do it, but until you bring it to the attention of a prospect, it may go as unnoticed.

These are just a few very basic ways to differentiate your business from you competitors on the web. You see, when selling your business on the web, you don't have the luxury of responding to questions you didn't anticipate. on the web, you usually get one shot at sell your prospect. If you miss the most basic detail it may result in a significant drop in leads coming from your site. It is extremely important that from the most basic to the most complex questions be answered and the most specific, incidental detail be mentioned to fully inform your prospects on ALL of the reasons why the should do business with you instead of your competitor.

The level of detail and professionalism you share in your contractor web design, the higher the conversion rates will be in converting that prospect into a lead and ultimately closing the sale with them. In most properly designed contractor web sites, the sales cycle will be dramatically reduced because all of the information your prospect needs is available to them all day, every day, online. When developing a contractor web design, please remember that the more quality, relevant, usable content you have in your site, the better it will perform at the human level as well as the search engines.

Contractor Web Design LLC
513-546-5409
Our business was founded by contractors, for contractors. If you are in need of information about building contractor websites, or need a web site built for a contracting company, contact us today at 513-546-5409

http://www.contractor-web-design.com

Home Selling Books

Selecting the Right Owner Builder Home Building Service

Owner Builder Home Building Services provide specific services to help you build your own home. In this article I would like to focus on choosing the RIGHT Owner Builder Service. For more information on what most of these services provide see my Owner Builder Home Building Services article.

As many of you already know I am an advocate of building your own home. I built mine using building contractors and did some of the work myself. This is my opinion is the best way to save maximum money. However, many of you may not have the time or just prefer having a service assist you when building your home. This approach may be the best of both worlds for you saving money and having a professional service assist you. Yes, you will not save as much money, but it may be the best route for you.

Choosing the right Owner Builder Service is paramount to the success of your new home building project. I would suggest doing the following:

• Find at least 3 home building services that you feel fit your needs and are in your budget. Ask up front for a list of fees.
  
  
• Gather all the information on each of them prior to any meeting. Do a Google, MSN and Yahoo search engine search on each of the services. You would be surprised what will come up on businesses today in rating services on the Net.
  
  
• Call the BBB, Chamber of Commerce and your local city, county and state governments and inquire about complaints that are outstanding and resolved. Also find out if they are in good standing with these organizations.
  
  
• After you have found 3 that pass your original inquiries and you are satisfied they are good businesses, then go see them. Dont do this prior to doing some research. Dont let fancy websites, brochures, and smooth salesmanship influence you before you have some of the cold hard facts. Remember past performance equals future behavior. If they have had serious problems in the past you probably dont want to deal with them.
  
  
• Do not make a decision in the first sit down meeting with your choices. Make sure you do not sign anything and keep your options open until you have followed up with each one and done further research.
  
  Here are some ideas for questions you need to ask in your meeting with prospective Owner Builder Services:
  
  
  
  
  1. What do you charge for your services? Are the charges figured on a per square foot based on my house? Are they figured on total square footage (under roof) or living area? Or, is it a flat fee? Will you provide me with a written list of your total fees?
     
     
  2. Do you provide house plans? Are the plans custom house plans that are drawn for you? What are the fees for these plans? How many revisions do you get? What are fees for any revisions (if any)? How long will the plans take to be drawn (get this in writing)? How many copies of the house plans do I receive? Are they complete sets of plans covering all of the trades? What is my recourse if the plans are wrong?
     
     
  3. What kind of financing do you offer? Do you offer one-time closing options? Do you run all your financing thru one bank? Who is that bank? What are the interest rates etc.and what is your commission for acting as my mortgage broker?
     
     
  4. Do you provide an approved home building contractor list? If so, do they work exclusively for you? Are they all bonded and insured? How big is the list, do you have multiple contractors on your list in each trade? Can I preview the list in your office to examine the size of it before I sign with you? Whats going to happen if I have a problem with a contractor? Will you talk with the contractors and help me resolve my problems with them?
     
     
  5. Do you come to my building site to give me advice and direction? How often do you come? Will you meet me there so I can learn from your expertise? What exactly will you personally do to help me build my home, i.e. help me lay out my foundation plan, discuss framing problems, etc.
     
     
  6. Do you offer support and assistance over the phone, by email or fax? How exactly will you respond to me when I need you? Can I ask questions when I need to have them answered? Will there be a qualified building professional available for me to be able to speak to? What is the average response time?
     
     
  7. Have you, or anyone associated with you, ever been sued, personally or corporately? (If yes, what were the names, date(s), of the person(s) or corporations that were sued.) Do you carry professional liability insurance? May I please have a certificate of insurance issued by the carrier that states the amount of the insurance? The insurance agent can fax it to your office.
     
     
  8. Can I have a copy of your client list both prior clients and current clients? If they are a reputable service they will be happy to provide you with a list of several of their clients for you to call and ask questions. Go back at least three years.
     
     
  9. Do you provide written building inspections during my building process and when I am finished building the house?
     

  In your meeting with each home building service take good notes to make sure you can go home and compare each one to the other carefully. Compare apples to apples. Try to be as objective as you can be. Some services dont mind you tape recording the meetings and phone conversations. Keep a hard copy file of all e-mails.
  
  Call the clients that have used the home building service in the past and the current clients and ask them about their experience.
  
  Take your time choose the best Owner Builder Service you can by researching and doing your homework. After all, they will be helping you build what will be your new home.

  and Build-Your-Own-Home.com All Rights Reserved

  For more free information about building your own home go to my website at http://www.Build-YourOwn-Home.com.

  and Build-Your-Own-Home.com All Rights Reserved

  Spiritual Growth
  

Attic Odors and Strange Smells

If you've ever opened up your attic access hole, only to find one of the worst odors you have ever smelled in your whole life, I've been there too. What causes these horrible smells and what can you do about them?

Let's start with the cause of these smells, moisture, dirt, mold, mildew, dead animals, animals that make their home in your attic and the biggest problem of all is normally poor ventilation.

Poor ventilation is the biggest problem with musty smells in the attic. These smells are often caused from moisture accumulating in the building materials over time. If there is enough moisture in the attic, the wood will start to rot but this wouldn't be a normal situation, unless there was a roof or water leak.

Roof leaks can cause a constant supply of water to one part of the attic. This constant supply of water will eventually rot the wood and damage the ceiling. Water leaks from pipes can provide a steady supply of water and the situation can attracts termites and mold. Not a good thing.

One of the worst possible smells or odors in your attic would be a dead animal. Don't under estimate the size of some of these animals, they have found dead raccoons, cats, snakes, large birds, squirrels, rats and mice in some attics. These animals usually enter through damaged access holes or vent blocks, roof vents, large gaps, holes and even fireplace chimneys.

Once these animals die, their bodies start to decompose and produce one horrible odor. Once the body is completely decomposed, the smell usually goes away if the attic is ventilated properly. These smells can seep into the homes living area, often creating a room that no one wants to enter.

Home peststhat make their home in your attics, often create smells from urinating and defecating in the areas around their nest. Large birds like owls can become a problem over time.

Now that we've figured out some of the causes for attic odors and strange smells, what can we do to prevent this from happening and if it's already happened, how can we get rid of the smell.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He has just finished a Home Buyers Guide to take some of the frustration out of home shopping.

If your having problems in your attic, find out more at pest control books and home building ideas.

Are Your Basement Walls Bulging, Bowing Or Cracked

Are your basement Walls BULGING, CRACKING, or BOWING?

Want to Weed Out The Gimmicks and Outdated Basement Repair Strategies offered Nationally?

Local Basement Expert and National Basement Author Reveals Insider Tips Secrets and Proprietary Repair Strategies, Custom Designed To Solve Your Basement Problems!!!

Hurry, Act Now!

A Structural Basement Problem Left UNTREATED Can Dramatically Skyrocket The Price< and ROB YOUR CHECKBOOK BLIND!

READ ON To Discover How To Permanently Erase Your Basement Problems! Discover why Innovative Mortar-less Methods Have Been Nationally Tested 5X Stronger

When it comes to treating a bulging cracked or bowing basement wall most of the basement companies are completely in the dark! They may have a few different band-aid type approaches but most are ignorant of the basic causes which create the underlying conditions to allow the walls to crack, heave, shift and buckle.

I am going to let you in on a SECRET. Most Basement Wall Problems Are A Result of Bad Framing ... NOT BAD MASONRY!

That's Right, Bad Framing.

You see with a concrete block or other stacked masonry unit wall, the wall derives its strength from the EVENLY DISTRIBUTED weight of the house applying pressure and pushing directly down on the top of the walls. This even distribution ensures that the heavier the house, the stronger the lateral load capacity of the wall.

When the house is applying direct pressure on top of the walls, the evenly distributed load makes the walls very strong. This is hugely important. The way that the load transfers onto the wall is via a board called a sill plate. The sill plate's job is to transfer the load of the house directly onto the top of the wall.

When the sill plate is as wide as the top of the top block the distribution is even. When the sill plate is smaller or partial there is an un-even distribution of the load; resulting in a wall that is weakened and that will begin to bow bulge and crack. A partial sill plate only covers a portion of the top block and does not come to the inside edge of the wall!

A partial sill plate will put all of the pressure on the outside edge of the block wall. This creates a very unstable wall. When other forces and complicating additional factors or problems are added to the wall, it can create huge problems!

Other factors include things like: a nearby tree with branches over the roof line (means roots pushing on wall) or roof downspouts that discharge to the base of the wall or a little bit of slight negative grade towards the house, when coupled with a partial sill plate: the result is often in total wall failure. The simple action in a northern climate of the soil freezing and thawing against the wall often results in a long horizontal frost line crack developing. This is extremely aggravated when it is coupled with a partial sill plate issue.

The sad truth is that even though many contractors will claim to know how to do a wall-rebuild or an Underpinning job, almost none of them would ever even consider correcting the underlying issue, the partial sill plate. I have seen countless numbers of walls that homeowners just like you paid tens of thousands of dollars to rebuild just to watch their money go up like a puff of smoke because the contractor rebuilt the wall in the exact same fashion as the one that failed already and was being replaced. In fact they will lay brand new blocks right up to the partial sill plate which caused the problem in the first place! Can you imagine paying good money for the exact same thing that broke already?

There is good news...

The sill plate problem can be inexpensively remedied when the wall repair is being performed. This means you can eliminate the underlying cause rather than just putting a band aid on it like a beam or wall anchor system.

When a wall has become destabilized due to uneven load distribution (or other factors), there is only one way to truly rectify the problem, which is to remove the earth on the other side of it and straighten and repair or rebuild it.

The Truth About Wall Anchors and How To Use Existing Wall Anchors and Make Them Effective

There are some companies who install wall anchors in an effort to stabilize the wall. I have stacks of these wall anchor plates at my shop from walls I have rebuilt that failed after being anchored. The reason these walls fail every time is that the plate on the inside wall is only roughly 12" by 12".

Since the mortar joints are often broken on a bulging wall, the plate will only draw back the blocks it touches. The companies that install them give you a wrench and tell you to make a turn every 6 weeks. This draws back virtually nothing. It is just a scam based on human nature and knowing that the homeowners won't give up on the wall ever straightening till long after the money is spent.

A way to utilize the wall anchor system is to remove the plate and jackhammer a pocket into the concrete floor slab. Then in place of the 12" by 12" plate you substitute a heavy duty 8" c- channel beam and cement it in place beneath the slab and tie its uppermost portion into the framing creating three anchor points catching all the courses.

Of course the wall anchor system fails to address the underlying cause of the whole issue, as well as failing to do anything to address water or mold issues it is simply a band-aid for a much more serious problem.

Internal Piers or Pilasters and Why They Don't Work

Some masons will tell you that they can straighten the wall and will use internal pilasters of re-bar and cement every so many feet down the wall. First of all, it is just about impossible to actually fish and thread a piece of re-bar all the way down to the first course of block. This is especially true if the blocks are three cores which are absolutely impossible to get more than two foot sections. The city of Medina, Ohio has a code in new construction that all masonry walls be double rodded with wire ties and grouted every 24" on center. I have re-built many walls in the city that were both bowed and shifted off their foundation. In all cases, BAD FRAMING was to blame! If you hope to stabilize a straightened wall, you need to correct the framing and / or re-enforce with beams.

The rebar you see sticking out of the pier was put in at point of construction, yet this wall in medina still failed

Why Rebuilding A Bowed Wall The Mason's Way Can make It Much Weaker than Before!

When an average, ordinary mason or contractor re-builds a wall they inevitably actually end up making a new but weaker wall. That is because when an ordinary wall re-build or under pinning is done, the new wall has a gap left at the top. That gap is typically shimmed and then tuck pointed. This changes the load on the wall from direct pressure to a point load system.

Since the wall derives its strength from even load distribution... it results in a much weaker wall! That means you're just throwing away your money. It also leads to long term plaster cracking and wall failure. Some years ago we discovered mortar-less wall rebuilding which is uniquely suited to wall rebuilds. In fact, we can even remove our jacks as soon as the last block is set in place and you can too!

Did You Know That the Pyramids Were Actually Built Without ANY Mortar At ALL and have been speculated to be over 10,000 Years old!

Over 12 years ago I stumbled onto one of the greatest basement wall rebuilding secrets, literally by accident. I discovered how to "glue" concrete blocks together without using any mortar between the blocks. The technique was developed in ancient Roman architecture some of which stands to this day. In fact there are 2000 year old Roman roads being driven on in Europe even still today!

Owens Corning Fiberglass spent millions of dollars testing and proving this ancient Roman technique and getting it put into nearly every major building code authority in the late 1960's. They did tests proving that a mortared block wall is up to five times weaker than a surface bonded wall. Or, to put it another way, our walls are five times stronger than ordinary mortared walls, which means you and your family can sleep safe through the night knowing that they're as strong as a fortress!

I began working with the process twelve years ago and have perfected structural repair strategies that employ the amazing benefits of the use of this revolutionary process

The biggest single difference is the immediate ability to apply pressure to the wall prior to completing the process. This comes from the fact that there is no mortar to squish out from between the blocks. Ordinary masons must build the new wall and leave a gap between the sill plate and the top of the block. They then beat shims in every couple of feet and lastly tuck point the gap. This is a horribly ineffective mess and does several things which guarantee the new wall will fail like the old one.

Why Dry Stacked and Surface Bonded Walls Are 5 X Stronger

The concept is very simple. Ordinary mortared walls are weak and have mortar trowelled in between them to level the courses. Many mistakenly believe mortar to be glue. This however is simply not true. A mortar joint is called a cold joint. A cold joint is a very weak porosity only, bond. Everyone knows that when new concrete is applied over old it doesn't bond, it doesn't adhere, and it doesn't stick.

Actually, anyone who has ever seen a bowing basement wall will note the walls can be cracked all over but still don't give in. That is because the downward pressure of the house exceeds the pressure exerted from the soil. The concept behind a surface bonded super-wall is simple.

Just imagine a wall made up of 8 a,b,c wooden kids blocks. Stack them up in your minds eye. Now just imagine that you apply pressure evenly from the top. The more pressure you add the stronger the blocks get. Next, imagine putting your hand on the top but only covering half of it.

See the blocks go shooting across the room. You See Even load distribution is EVERYTHING!!!

Now Imagine those same abc wooden kids blocks were stacked up, but with duct tape going up both sides of the blocks.Now, add imaginary pressure- that's right; incredibly strong! By applying a surface bond you are in effect turning the whole stack into a bond beam. Amazing!

In real life, when dry satcking the first course is laid traditionally in a bed of mortar to level the it and the rest of the blocks are stacked on top in staggered courses just like traditional masonry, called a "running bond." Once the walls have been completed up to the last course, this superior process comes into play. At the top course cut the top blocks a 1/16 of an inch over the gap between the sill plate and the next course. Then take a bottle jack and lift just enough pressure to get the block in, in this fashion. This is something that could not be done with mortar. Move, cut, lift, set. We: move, cut, lift, set.

Finish the last course, and by the time you are done... voila! Now the house is again resting its weight and transferring it directly from the sill to the footer. Of course we always recommend that you correct any sill plate or FRAMING issues before beginning the repair. Now once the entire wall has been rebuilt, then trowel a skim coat like stucco all over the outside and the inside of the wall. This slurry has tens of thousands of "cat hair" fibers, which used to be made of fiber glass but today are made of nylon.

This process of mixing a fiber matrix into a cement mixture goes all the way back to Egypt where they mixed straw with mud before making bricks of them. In more recent times, cement plasterers of the twentieth century used horse hair in plaster to strengthen it. Today's nylon fibers are the modern space age equivalent. And when they are mixed into to a high strength waterproofed surface bonding cement, which has chemical bonding adhesive mixed in that make it chemically "glue" to the wall - the end result is a super-bonded high- strength bond-beam. This makes it incredibly tuff and gives you a real guarantee of piece of mind knowing your new wall is now 5X stronger against lateral or sideways loads.

Bowed Walls Can Be Straightened and Saved TOO!

It is not always necessary to Re-build the wall. If the blocks are mostly intact they can be saved in many cases. The process involves first excavating the exterior wall all the way to the footer base. Then we grind out any joints in the interior that are broken. Then, a series of planks are set up against the bulging walls. Using baords and evenly applied skill and pressure, slowly force the walls back into place.

It is possible to successfully repair the most incredibly bowed walls you've ever imagined. And make them stronger than new!

The way to do this is by repairing the FRAMING issues that contributed to the failure and then by reinforcing the walls either using beams or carbon fiber strips.Traditional beams are cemented in place below the floor slab and tied into the wooden framing at the top thereby securing all the courses and keeping the wall in place. More recent technological advances have brought the carbon fiber wall reinforcing systems into being these eliminate the loss of space created by beams and are more for cosmetic effect. The wall is ground with diamonds and strips of high strength carbon fibers are "glued" to the wall with resin. This technology is being used in modern aviation and stealth technologies.

Both do the exact same thing... strengthen the wall in place.

Buy now if you have a structural problem, I am sure you can see why you need to turn to the experts. Over the years we have tested, innovated, and improved every type of foundation system available , with this knowledge you can't be ripped off by one of the "our-system-fits- all -problems" contractors out there.

How Do I Know If My Basement Is Actually Waterproofed?

Chances are if we didn't do it... It probably isn't. ...You See, Tar Has Never Been Rated as Waterproof!! Did you know that in the building codes, there are actually two separate definitions for damp-proofing (tar) and waterproofing?

Damp-proofing, by definition, means "something that helps to slow the penetration of water into the substrate". HHMMM "helps to slow" sounds quite different than the definition of waterproofing: "something thatpreventsthe penetration of water", and not only prevents water, it further must pass a bending test where the membrane must be able to be bent around a cylinder. This requirement eliminates all crystalline and cement based sealants.

Water proof sealants are almost all exclusively used and installed COMMERCIALLY...(that's because they are more expensive). The extra costs are what stop the average contractor from offering you, the homeowner, a product that is effective and will last and "stand the test of time".

I recommend using a MULTI-STEP EXTERIOR WATERPROOFING SYSTEM which uses a cement-based fiber re-enforced wall resurfacing system and NO LESS than TWO waterproof rated sealants. This is by no means the cheapest of methods, however, and it may or may not be the BEST system to put into place. Which system you should use depends entirely on the specific nature of YOUR problem. There are NO miracle systems than can solve ALL basement problems. The thing I can guarantee is if you use a multistep outside waterproof system , it will actively drain water away from the foundation, and the water leak will be a thing of the past, not only that, but waterproof sealants will outlast the wood on your house GUARANTEED!

Charles Boday
CMI, CMRC, CMLCC
800-948-4947
http://www.safemoldsolutions.com
http://www.superdrybasement.com

Home Skylight Books

Building a Porch

If you are a do-it-yourselfer, you probably don't want to call a contractor to build a porch onto your home; not when you know that building one is something you are perfectly capable of doing yourself. After all, it is something anybody can do, provided that they have the right tools, a high patience level, some people to help with the lifting and a good set of instructions or plans.

Building a porch is a fantastic project, but it requires a lot of work. It is a lot different than building a simple front stoop. After all, it is going to serve as an extended entry way to your home. You want it to be well built and have some character.

You will need to decide how big you want it to be. Go outside and measure out just how much square footage your porch will need. You will need to know this information when it comes time to buy the materials needed to complete the project.

Before you start building one, however, you will want to make sure that you have the legal right to do so. Adding anything onto your home usually takes permits from the city and sometimes the county. There are regulations that will need to be followed and you will need to have your property inspected before you even begin your materials shopping.

When you go to buy the materials make sure your materials are pressure treated or is wood that has been given some elemental protection so that it will be able to stand up to the weather for a long time. You might also think about getting some protective paint or stain. In addition to the flooring, you will also need to buy enough wood to build the frame and supports. This will take wooden beams in various dimensions. If you do not have experience in this sort of thing, a call to a contractor or an experienced lumber person will be able to tell you what you need.

Another option when it comes to building a porch is to build a concrete floored one. Of course, in order to do this you will want to have had some experience with mixing and pouring concrete. If you do not have experience with this, you will want to enlist somebody who does have experience to help you.

Depending on the size, building a porch can be a huge undertaking or merely a weekend project. Small side ones shouldn't take long, but one that is larger takes time, effort and a few permits. You will still be able to save a lot of money by building it yourself. After all, anybody can do it. It just takes the right materials, the right tools and a few people to help you lift the heavier materials. When you are done, you will have a porch that your family will enjoy for years to come.

For more information on how to build a porch and other porches related topics visit The DIY Home Guide at http://www.thediyhomeguide.com

Architecture Books

Considering Home Painting

When remodeling a house, homeowners should not forget the importance of painting their home's exterior. With expert help, homeowners can get a paint job that will allow the rest of the remodel to come together nicely and compliment the rest of the work that has been done. Exterior painting is often the factor that brings the remodel together and gives the house the best chance of looking great.

When considering home painting, homeowners should realize the importance of a good paint job. Simply painting the house is often not enough to make the house look its best. The homeowner should ensure that the job is left to the most qualified person possible. When things are left to the experts, everything else will just fall into place. Simplicity when it comes to handling these complicated jobs is something every homeowner can smile about. Realizing that they cannot handle home painting and other complex jobs themselves is the best realization a homeowner can come to when remodeling.

Contractors are their best bet in getting the results they are expecting or hoping for. The work of an amateur is just not up to par with the work of a professional. Professionals simply have too much training and experience for amateurs trying to emulate their work. Home painting can be tricky, so this training and experience will come in handy for sure. When the painter does not possess these qualities, they will often fall short of the expectations that have been laid upon them.

More information on College Works Painting home repair for your home is just a click away.

Are There Really Home Water Filters That Work?

A lot of people seem to be of the opinion that home water filters won't really do enough of a job of purifying our drinking water to make them worth the expense. Then you will hear many of those same people turn around and ask, how do water filters work. It all just seems odd to me, that's all.

I mean, how can you tell me in one breath that you don't think that home water filters do an adequate enough job to protect you from the pollutants in our drinking water, and then turn around in the next an tell me that you don't even really have a full understanding of how the filter operates?

If you suffer from a lack of knowledge as far as how do water filters work, then how can you pass a judgment down upon them? You have to have a full comprehension of what these units can do, and you also have to have a working knowledge of exactly what kinds of contaminants the unit is going to have to face.

Home water filters have to have a well rounded filtering design due to how many different pollutants that it deals with. The most potent threat comes from the chemicals that are present in our water supplies. There can be literally hundreds of them present in trace amounts, and the majority of them all reach our homes at one point or another.

To understand how do water filters work against these chemicals you have to know that there is such a variety of them that you actually need more than on internal filter in order to be able to effectively block them all. For this your unit needs both a multi media block, and a granular activated carbon filter. Together they will block 99% of the chemical content of your water.

Your home water filters also need to be able to block parasites and cysts from you drinking water. For this you need what is called a sub micron filter system. There is also one more filter that you need if you are going to be successful in removing the only remaining threat which is lead and copper.

So, how do water filters work in removing these toxic metals from your water? The system will this time employ an ion exchange unit which will effectively trap these heavy metals, and it will replace them with sodium and potassium. This unit is also effective for keeping your waters pH level balanced,

Any unit that you may find that has all four of these filters in it is a water filter well worth the money that you pay for it, and to be honest with you there are units that contain all of these features that are really quite reasonably priced. Don't let anyone fool you into believing that you have to pay a small fortune for home water filters that are effective in purifying your water, because that is absolutely not the case.

Learn about other water filtration systems at my website that I personally use that can dramatically improve the quality of your water.

Dana Lakes is a passionate researcher of water purity issues that affect our health and well-being. She articulates her opinion at http://www.clean-filtered-safe-water.com. To learn about water purification systems that Dana recommends for your home or office visit http://www.clean-filtered-safe-water.com

Glass Railing - Where Class Should Be Visible

Add Sparkle To Space Use Glass Railings

Glass railings with some transparency and a lot reflection from glass can create a different kind of atmosphere to a place that has been lit up brightly. If you see a Dubai gold mart for example, you will be able to see lot of glass railing in market. The well-lit mart becomes alive with reflection from gold and the use of glass everywhere, including the railings, accentuates the feeling of fun of shopping.The complete reflection from all surfaces adds to the glitter of gold there. If you use wood or any other railings there, the effect will not be as electric.

Customized Solutions - Glass Railings

Glass railings are never available as ready made material that can be cut and fitted as required. When you wish to use glass railings, the idea is to accentuate the atmosphere of the whole place and hence you may have to consider the all the factors including the lighting. The holistic approach has to be applied to the whole place rather than just fitting the glass railings.

Advantage Glass Railings No Maintenance Absolutely

The main advantage of the glass railings is that it requires no maintenance at all. There is no requirement of polishing or the possibility of mildew formation or and degradation of quality of the installed railings. Apart from the general cleaning, the glass railing continues to look as good as new all the time. Replacements unless the glass breaks are not necessary.

Advantage 2 - Tender Handling By Customers

Because of the perception of glass as breakable material, everyone handles it carefully even when tender handling is not required. Therefore, when children try riding the railings, immediately the parents come in and prevent the children from doing so. This happens, as the glass is feared to be breakable even when it is not and this prevents any undesirable incidents in a shopping complex.

Advantage 3 - Inviting Atmosphere

The glass with its openness results in a place where the shoppers feel invited and indulge in more shopping than may be warranted by their capacity and the shop owner gets the advantage of higher turnover.

Adam Peters is a freelance author who contributes adding interesting articles to a deck and porch railings website. Adam publishes ideas for railing plans and designs at http://www.deck-porch-railings.com Reach more articles on modern glass railing designs at http://www.deck-porch-railings.com/glass-deck-railing.html

Relax in Luxury With Free Standing Bathtubs

Everyone deserves a wonderfully relaxing bubble bath once in awhile. After a long day of meetings, phone calls, and carpools, you need to soak away your worries in warm soapy water while you listen to one of your favorite CDs or read a great book. While most people decide to take a shower in the mornings because it is the most efficient way to clean up before work, a bath is by far the more luxurious of the two. This experience is the perfect way to relieve stress after a crazy week. If you are interested in purchasing a new bathtub, you will be surprised by the hundreds of options that are available today!

Free standing bathtubs are becoming more and more popular in remodeled bathrooms. Unlike the traditional bathtub that fits snugly as a drop-in style in the provided corner of your bathroom, the free standing tub can sit anywhere in the room. This setup requires you to be creative with your plumbing but, if you are remodeling, your contractor will be able to accommodate this request easily.

Traditionally, these bathtubs have been cradled on stylish claw feet and there are many bathtub manufacturers that are bringing this look back. There are also models that sit on a pedestal or completely on the floor, depending on the design that you choose. Another style of free standing tub is called "Bateau," because it is shaped like a small boat. This design is a very deep bathtub that is so large, it can usually accommodate two people. The benefit of freestanding bathtubs is that they can make a bold design statement, give a sense of elegance to the room, and do not require any caulking!

If you are interested in a bathtub that saves you space, I would recommend a corner tub. These tubs fit perfectly in a corner and give you a roomier bathing experience than you thought possible! You also have large shelf space with a corner tub so that you can easily lay out all your soaps and loofas.

If you are interested in a spa like experience, you can even purchase a whirlpool tub, complete with massage jets and hydrotherapy. There are so many luxurious choices that it will be difficult choosing just one!

If you would like more information on free standing bathtubs or clawfoot tubs, please visit the Simply Bathtubs website.

Choosing a Home Renovation Contractor

So you've decided that you want to renovate your house. Great, there is no better way to create a home that reflects your tastes and style than renovating your own home.

Home improvements can raise the value of your home and create a better lifestyle for you and your family.

Planning home improvements generally fall into two categories. There are the Do It Yourself home improvement projects where you supply all the work. Then there are the home renovations where you hire a contractor(s) to complete the work for you. We will focus on the second type of home renovation.

The best place to find skilled contractors are referrals from family or friends that have had similar work done to their own homes. You can also use one of the on-line services that will refer pre-screened contractors for your project. Make sure to check with the Better Business Bureau under the company and personal name of the business owner for anyone that you are considering.

Before you even get to the bidding process you need to call and verify that each contractor has workman's comp, property damage and personal liability insurances. They should also be licensed as needed for the work they are doing. Make sure that they understand that if they are requested to bid they will need to present proof of this information and that all work must be to local building codes.

Next step is for you to whittle down your list to the best three or four possibilities. You do this by requesting at least three referral names and phone numbers for completed work that is similar to your project from each potential contractor.

Don't be shy about asking each referral for a chance to see their finished renovation work. Ask questions about the timeliness of the project and whether it was completed on budget. Most people will be happy to share with you and may even have a couple of good ideas to pass along.

After this you should be able to choose the best three or four contractors who you then ask for a bid based upon the same exact work and materials. Don't automatically pick the lowest price.

At this point, you should start expecting to feel a certain chemistry with the individual contractors. Remember that the home renovation contractor that you choose will be in and around your home for the duration of your project. You need to feel comfortable with them.

Make sure that you understand whether or not each contractor is doing multiple jobs and whether you can expect them or a foreman to be on site during the work.

Once you choose the contractor that you want to use, make sure that you get your agreement in writing. This is the time to ask for a copy of their contractors license and insurance binder that state you are covered for your project.

Make sure that the entire scope of your project is outlined including items like who pays for everything from trash hauling to the porta-pot. The agreement needs to outline who is going to be responsible for demolition, materials and clean-up.

Try to think off everything that will be used or needed. It is only fair that a contractor charge extra for extra work so if you forget something it can easily cause your project to go over budget.

When specifying materials avoid the use of the terms comparable or equal. Make sure that you check on-line or at a hardware store so you understand the costs of materials, electrical fixtures and plumbing fixtures and materials. Any changes in the specific materials or brands should require you to sign off on and agreeing to the change.

Make payments as the work progresses. Try to keep the initial deposits as low as possible. You should be aware that subcontractors can place a lien on your property if they are not paid. Make sure that as you pay for each portion of the completed work you get a release of lien signed or at least proof that your contractor is paying the subs in a timely manner.

Do not sign any type of completion document or pay the final balances until all work has passed the final code inspections.

Finally, you should also be aware that during renovations of older homes surprises can appear. Things that couldn't be expected until actual demolition started. Make sure that you keep an extra reserve funds for those situations. It will allow you to take them in stride and make sure that your whole renovation project gets completed just the way you envisioned it.

You can make your next home renovation project go smoothly following the tips and suggestions of author Bob Current. For more information and ideas check out http://www.homeimprovementtips.info

Looking For a Place That Will Help With Tips on Home Renovation?

For many people the prospect of renovating their home can be extremely daunting. It can cost a lot of money and it can take up a lot of your spare time as well as causing you a lot of stress too. However even if you are a complete beginner, there are a number of home renovation tips that could help you. These tips can be found in a number of different places and they can help you renovate on a budget, as well as saving you time too. So, if you are considering renovating your home then looking at various tips and advice beforehand is definitely recommended!

Finding the Best Advice

There are a number of different places where you can find home renovation tips. A particularly good place to look is online.

You can find literally thousands of websites offering you tips and advice on home renovation. This means that no matter what you are looking to achieve, there will be help available. Firstly however you have to have a pretty good idea of what you want to achieve before you can find the best tips to help you. Also, you need to know that you are renovating your home for the right reasons too.

Once you know that you are doing the renovation for the right reasons and you have a good idea of what you would like to do, you may then call in an expert. The expert will be a surveyor who will be able to tell you what kind of a state your home is in. They will be able to say whether the improvements you are planning are worthwhile or whether you should be focusing on something else. Often there is a lot more work involved than you originally thought and so it would be a good idea to get an expert opinion so you know exactly where you stand. Ideally you will also have a good idea of the budget you can spend on the improvements as that will help you to further know what improvements to make.

You can find good renovation tips at your local hardware store. The staff there should be able to answer any questions that you may have and they will also be able to point you to the right tools to use too. They can also tell you if your ideas will coordinate well with your country kitchen curtains. Tips are not just important in the planning stage - they can also really help you throughout the whole renovation process. You could run into a problem along the way for example and by looking at different tips and advice, it could really help you to get back on track.

Forums are a great place to get the advice that you need. People all around the world post their advice and experiences online so that you can learn from them. You should be able to find hundreds of websites that can help you no matter what problems you are experiencing.

Overall online is usually the best source for home renovation ideas. However you can also find useful advice down at your local hardware store. Just remember to research everything before you start renovating and always get an expert opinion beforehand whenever possible.

Ken Morris routinely edits publications on issues similar to catalogs for country curtains. You can have a look at his articles on catalogs for country curtains and country kitchen curtains over at http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com

Missing Kitchen Outlet Covers

Attic Odors and Strange Smells

If you've ever opened up your attic access hole, only to find one of the worst odors you have ever smelled in your whole life, I've been there too. What causes these horrible smells and what can you do about them?

Let's start with the cause of these smells, moisture, dirt, mold, mildew, dead animals, animals that make their home in your attic and the biggest problem of all is normally poor ventilation.

Poor ventilation is the biggest problem with musty smells in the attic. These smells are often caused from moisture accumulating in the building materials over time. If there is enough moisture in the attic, the wood will start to rot but this wouldn't be a normal situation, unless there was a roof or water leak.

Roof leaks can cause a constant supply of water to one part of the attic. This constant supply of water will eventually rot the wood and damage the ceiling. Water leaks from pipes can provide a steady supply of water and the situation can attracts termites and mold. Not a good thing.

One of the worst possible smells or odors in your attic would be a dead animal. Don't under estimate the size of some of these animals, they have found dead raccoons, cats, snakes, large birds, squirrels, rats and mice in some attics. These animals usually enter through damaged access holes or vent blocks, roof vents, large gaps, holes and even fireplace chimneys.

Once these animals die, their bodies start to decompose and produce one horrible odor. Once the body is completely decomposed, the smell usually goes away if the attic is ventilated properly. These smells can seep into the homes living area, often creating a room that no one wants to enter.

Home peststhat make their home in your attics, often create smells from urinating and defecating in the areas around their nest. Large birds like owls can become a problem over time.

Now that we've figured out some of the causes for attic odors and strange smells, what can we do to prevent this from happening and if it's already happened, how can we get rid of the smell.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He has just finished a Home Buyers Guide to take some of the frustration out of home shopping.

If your having problems in your attic, find out more at pest control books and home building ideas.

Older Homes With No Dryer Hookup

Things That You Need to Consider When Building a Deck

If the prospect of summer excites you at the thought of having an enjoyable time outside the house along with friends and family, then you should seriously consider building a deck in the backyard or front yard of your house. By doing this, you won't have to bother about insects, wet grass etc. that are an integral feature of the outdoors.

Since the addition of a deck to the house is a major alteration, it is better to invest some thought into it. This means that you should devote ample time to factors like location, material and design for the deck etc. After deciding on the budget for the deck, you have to select a contractor who will help you to get a great looking and strong deck at the least expense possible.

Before you choose a contractor, though, it makes sense to have a lucid idea about the specific materials you want to use in building your deck and the exact layout that you would like for the deck. Along with this, if you are interested in installing attractive features like built-in benches, planters etc. you should inform the contractor so that he can give you a correct estimate of the cost that is likely to be incurred for the deck.

Other things that you need to be sure about are the experience and skills of the contractor in building a deck for you. Requisite knowledge to carry out the desired work is a must. You also need to check on the license of the contractor and find out whether he has built other decks in your area of residence. Asking for references is a good idea to find out the satisfaction levels of other customers with the particular contractor. Apart from this, you also need to ensure that the contractor helps you in all areas of the deck building process. Insurance for the employees and business are essential qualities in any firm that you are thinking of finalizing for the job.

The benefit of building a deck is that you won't need to worry about your house being a complete mess since the entire work is carried outside. However, you do need to keep an eye on the progress of work and be readily available if some problem arises during the building process. At the same time, you should not pressurize the workers and make it difficult for them to work. On the contrary, if you are civil and appreciate their work by offering them an occasional cold drink or snacks, the whole operation will be carried out much more smoothly and you will end up having a beautiful deck.

Adam Peters is the author of many articles published online. Gather more information and resources on sun burst deck railing at http://www.deck-porch-railings.com/sunburst.html

Basic Types Of Sunroom Enclosure

Central Vacuum Systems For Your Home

What is a central vacuum system? A central vacuum system is made up of a group of inlets that are connected via piping to an integral power and canister unit. The inlets are generally wall mounted, but can also be floor mounted. Each inlet allows you to vacuum 700 to 800 square feet. A flexible hose, approximately 30 feet long plugs into the outlets. Numerous types of suction heads are available to connect to the end of the hose, including power beaters.

The power/canister unit is usually mounted in a garage or basement.

Most handymen can install a central vacuum system, without the need for professional assistance. The most complex part of the installation is physically running the two inch plastic piping from the power unit to the inlets.

There are many reasons to consider the installation of a central vacuum system for your home:

• Relieves Allergy Symptoms: As the power unit and canister are mounted outside of the living area of the home, exhaust air from the vacuum is not circulated back into the room being vacuumed which substantially improves the air quality in the room. Coupled with good filtration, many manufacturers are using HEPA filtration, almost 100% of the contacted dirt, dust mites, pollen, dander, and other allergens are removed and contained.
• More Power: Central vacuum systems deliver up to five times more suction power than conventional upright or canister vacuum cleaners. More suction equates to better overall cleaning.
• Larger Canister: The canister that is attached to the power unit holds as much as six gallons of dirt, 10 times more dirt than conventional upright or canister vacuum cleaners. You can vacuum longer without the inconvenience of changing bags or emptying canisters.
• Convenience: Have you ever tried to vacuum a ceiling fan, drapes, blinds? Usually the hose is not long enough, even with the extension pipes you end up lifting the vacuum cleaner in the air in order to reach the corners and tops. With the long hose associated with a central vacuum system, reaching corners, ceilings, and other difficult areas is easy.

  Have a multi-story home? Then you have faced the inconvenience of carrying your vacuum cleaner up and down stairs, not to mention the difficulty in actually vacuuming stair cases, usually it means trying to position the vacuum on the steps in order to reach all points.

• Quiet Because the power unit is not in the living area of the home, there is far less ambient noise when vacuuming. You can hear the phone ring, listen to music and answer the front door.

If you are looking for a home improvement project that will be of benefit to the entire family consider a central vacuum system. As with any home appliance, it is wise to investigate the specifications, features, and accessories available before you choose the manufacturer and model that suits your requirements best.

Renovation-Headquarters has additional information on the installation of a central vacuum system in your home.

For additional information on home improvement, remodel or other renovation projects, including landscaping and gardening, visit Renovation Headquarters.

How Natural Rust Removers Can Work For Any Home Pool

Many homes have pools but after a long winter it can be tough to get these pools to be moved back to their best qualities. Many of them will have developed rust over the long season. A natural rust remover can be used to clear these problems with safety. Natural rust removers work to help with removing rust stains so that the pool can be at its best condition possible for the new season.

The way pool cleaning materials like this work is simple. A proper rust remover that is organic in nature is applied onto a brush that can be used for scrubbing hard surfaces. After this the remover is then brushed onto the rust stain so that everything will be properly removed. After this is done the remaining parts of the stain that have fallen off will need to be cleared out before the pool can be filled up with water again. De-chlorination is needed after this process too as a means of getting the entire area properly cleaned off.

In some cases products that are available for removing rust are ones that do not require wiping. They can easily cause the rust to dissolve over time. Some additional time is going to be required for this type of option though.

A variety of different options can be used for these natural rust removers. These pool cleaning materials can come in spray forms, mixing tubs and in liquids for pouring or wiping.

The reason why natural rust removers are needed as pool cleaning materials is that many artificially made rust removers can be harmful to the people who use the pool. Chemicals that can stick onto the surfaces in the cleaning process can easily harm the quality of the surfaces. As a result they can easily get into the water for when the pool is actually filled up for the new season. This can be a major health concern. With a natural remover it will be easier to get everyone to stay safe because all ingredients used are non-toxic and safe for everyone.

What's more is that rust can be dangerous to a pool in that if rust continues to build up it can easily get into the water over time and can become even harder to clear off. As a result it is always best to use these products before each season.

When looking to get a pool at the home ready for the new season it is best to consider one of the various types of natural rust removers available. These materials are ones that can be used to help with clearing off difficult rust stains that can build up during the winter and can help to make the pool safer for everyone. These can come in many forms and can be easy to apply too.

Tanya is a mother concerned about her childrens well being. She has searched high and low for natural products that will not harm her young ones. Now you can tap into her research and find out which products she uses to protect her family from nasty chemicals. Visit natural rust remover

The Updated Americans With Disabilities Act is Now in Effect

In case you somehow haven't heard, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has been completely revised and is now in effect. The new law amending the ADA shows a much larger definition of disability to help protect those being discriminated against, especially at work. The revision was passed and signed in the fall of 2008 and went into effect on January 1, 2009.

The new definition of disability is much broader and offers protections for people who were not considered disabled just last year, especially those with illnesses or diseases that can be helped or controlled with therapy and/or medications. For instance, before the revision those with diabetes, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis and other conditions were not considered disabled due to the nature of these conditions.

Many illnesses or diseases, of course, are remitting and relapsing in nature, or can be controlled at times through medical attention and pharmaceuticals. While these conditions can be disabling, the old ADA did not take this into consideration and did not consider those with the conditions disabled.

The amendments to the ADA have changed everything. Except for those who wear glasses and/or contacts because of poor eyesight, people are now considered disabled based on their medical condition when the condition is most severe. This means before medication, therapies and medical attention.

For example, if someone has epilepsy, they are considered disabled due to their epilepsy, even if they take medication to keep it under control. Those with multiple sclerosis are deemed disabled based on their condition when the disease is not under control. This new change reflects an acknowledgment that many conditions may "present" as less limiting at various points in time, but, due to their very nature, can easily and quickly exacerbate, becoming more limiting and disabling.

In addition to this change, the new ADA also has changes in the list of major life activities that qualify as physical or mental impairments if affected, such as reading, thinking, standing, bending, caring for oneself, communicating, concentrating and lifting.

While some people think this will only add to a growing list of disability discrimination claims, others hope that these new protections will benefit those who are clearly disabled, yet have not been deemed so until now. In particular, many are hoping this will benefit returning veterans.

The author of this article is Timothy Moore, who, in addition to being a former food stamp caseworker, medicaid caseworker and AFDC caseworker, is a former disability claims examiner for the social security administration. He answers questions about the federal disability system at Social Security Disability Secrets.

ADA Compliant Commercial Elevators

Commercial elevators that have the features and safety standards specified by Americans with Disability Act (ADA) are referred to as ADA compliant commercial elevators. The law is enforced by the United States Department of Justice and defines the codes and specifications for all types of commercial elevators including stair lifts. This law was created for the comfort of physically disabled people and is mandatory for all types of commercial buildings. Most elevator manufacturers have now revised their elevator specifications to meet the standards of ADA.

Standard Features Required by ADA

ADA compliant elevators need to be automatic and the elevator car should have self-leveling features. For hall call buttons certain standards are specified; all lanterns, raised and Braille characters should be provided for the convenience of blind people. Reopening and door protection devices, door and signal timing for hall calls, floor plan of elevator calls, switch control for lights, indicator to know the position of the car, door delay for car calls, provision for communication during emergency are some other standards. In addition to that elevators should be on an accessible route and follow 4.10 and the ASME A17.1 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators.

Exemptions in the ADA Standard

As per the act, elevator exemption is given for buildings having less than 3 stories, or those having less than 3000 square feet per storey. However, for such business buildings, installing low cost elevators will be a great service they can provide for their customers.

Best Companion for Your Clients

As ADA compliant commercial elevators are provided with all required features and safety measures, they are ideal for regular day to day use. These elevators are affordable for small and medium enterprises including schools, lodges, hospitals and other commercial buildings.

Established companies including Savaria Concord, ThyssenKrupp Access and Federal Elevator provide different models of ADA compliant commercial elevators. These dealers provide all assistance for quality installation and maintenance of the elevators. On analyzing the features of ADA compliant commercial elevators, it is evident that they are the best suited models for modern commercial needs.

DAY Elevator & Lift is a leading supplier of ADA compliant commercial elevators manufactured by top companies. Commercial LULA elevators, or Limited Use Limited Access elevators, are of great utility value in commercial facilities where there is no existing vertical transportation.

Preventing Falls on the Stairs

There are a lot of areas of the home that are dangerous or present a risk. Often this depends on your age group. For instance, a child might be at risk when playing around the stove, while an elderly individual is likely to be more at risk when using the stairs. Identifying and dealing with these issues is paramount to staying healthy and injury free.

Among seniors, a fall can be a very serious thing. It is often harder for an elderly individual to catch themselves before they fall. The recovery time for a senior is also a lot longer and the process can be quite difficult. Many times, due to osteoporosis, even a small low impact fall can result in a broken hip or fractured wrist, so it is far better to prevent them before they happen.

One of the most common places for a fall is the stairs and other areas that change elevation. Sometimes a home will have a step down into the living room or perhaps even into the kitchen, so making sure all of these types of areas are clearly marked is a good idea. Using a piece of brightly colored textured tape is a good idea. On the stairs, you should use the same color tape for all of the steps, with the exception of the first and last step. On the first and last step, you should use a color that sharply contrasts the tape on the inside steps. This way it is easy to quickly pick out the top and bottom step.

Some people also choose to install a stair lift, which is a medical lifting aid. These devices are used to help a person up the stairs and are great for those who find it painful or otherwise difficult to use the stairs. Many accidents are caused by a lack of balance, so those that are at all unsteady should consider using some sort of lifting aid.

One of the great things about a stair lift is that it can be installed to most straight staircases quickly and easily. There is rarely a need to modify the home, with the exception of securing the stair lift track to the staircase. A curved staircase is not quite as easy to outfit with a stair lift though.

It is also a good idea to remove loose carpets, especially around the stairs. A loose throw rug not only can slip, but even if the rug has a non-skid backing, the corner can become turned up, making it possible to trip over it. Instead, carpets should be tacked to the floor and remain firmly in place and otherwise removed.

Having adequate lighting can also be very important to prevent falls. For outdoor use, installing motion sensor lights can be a good idea. These lights come on if they detect motion, but they can also be turned on like regular lights, usually by turning them off and back on again in rapid succession. You can also adjust how sensitive the motion detector is, so make sure you adjust it to turn on as soon as you drive up or come outside. For inside, having good light is important in all areas of the home.

For a senior, it can be difficult to recover from a fall. It is a good idea to take steps to make your home as safe as possible.

Sean Noughtly is a writer that is familiar with many types of mobility aids, such as stair lifts. The stair lift is a very popular device that can make using the stairs possible again. Many who thought they would have to completely avoid the stairs, have found that they are able to independently and safely use the stairs with a stair lift.

AmeriGlide is one company that offers many types of lifting aids, such as stair lifts and also dumbwaiters. A dumbwaiter is like an elevator, but is not used to carry people. Instead it carries items throughout a home or other building. This can make using the stairs much safer, because it is no longer necessary to carry heavy objects up the stairs. Instead, it is possible to simply place them on the dumbwaiter and let it do all the work.

Including the Outdoors in Home Remodeling

A backyard isnt the same as it used to be a place to grill, where kids play ball, or just an extra spot to mow. Now the trend is to make the backyard an outdoor retreat or an extension to the house.

As reported in the May 2006 Consumer Reports, designing and furnishing an outdoor room is the second most likely home-remodeling project to do. Specifically, approximately 1.2 million U.S. households will install a fully functional outdoor kitchen, according to a study by the industry research company inquiry.
In 2004, Better Homes and Gardens magazine received survey responses from nearly 60,000 Americans describing home improvement projects and future home-building aspirations. Better Homes and Gardens found that people want indoor/outdoor livability, technological innovations, flexibility for family needs and a kitchen-centric focus. (REMODELING Magazine, September 1, 2005)

Homeowners are seeking ways to make the outdoors a functional part of the living area. To accomplish that, the barriers between outdoors and indoors, such as walls and solid doors, are going away. As cited in A Simple Way to Increase Outdoor Living Space at HGPgal.com, for homeowners looking to add to their living space, improve their lifestyle and increase the resale value of their home, the perfect solution is to extend living areas outdoors through the addition of decks, patios, outdoor kitchens and entertainment areas.

"The line between the house and the outdoor space continues to disintegrate," says Julie D. Taylor, author of Outdoor Rooms. "Many designers are using the same, or similar, materials both on the interior and exterior to extend the house to the outdoors. It breaks down the barrier and gives a feeling of a larger house."

Alternatively, instead of thinking of the barriers disintegrating, another solution is effective indoor-outdoor connections. These connections can include French doors opening up onto a porch, or the addition of a window to expose a lovely view. Indoor-outdoor connections can be as simple as adding a mudroom between the garage and the home, or more complex, such as an outdoor entertainment area placed just outside the doors of a home's main gathering space. Adding visual connections to the outdoors, such as through the addition of glass doors or enlarging a window, adds value to your home by making its interior space appear larger than it actually is. (Connect Inside of Your House with the Beauty Outdoors, Ann Robinson, Deseret News, April 2005)

To create the outdoor living space that you want, start by determining your budget and your desires.
Consumer Reports provides some tips about what to consider for building room extensions or outdoor entertainment areas:

* Determine how you will use your space
* Consider location
* Be sure to weatherproof
* Incorporate lighting and heat
* Consider safety

No matter what extension you decide to make, it will undoubtedly add value to your home. As cited by Ann Robinson in Deseret News, Exterior living space adds usable square footage to your home without costing you the $120-plus per square foot you'd spend for the construction of an addition.

For more information visit:http://www.homeremodelersgroup.com/"> http://www.homeremodelersgroup.com/

Kitchen Faucets And Maintenance

Options For Sun Room Installation

Having an enclosed patio constructed is not an over-night process. Sun room installation takes careful planning, construction skills and an ability to stick with the job and get it done right. Fortunately, homeowners will discover they have several options available to them to make this dream become reality.

There are three main choices for getting a sun room installed. They are:

From-scratch, do-it-yourself building - Homeowners who are capable of reading blueprints and happen to be handy with tools can build sunrooms from the ground up on their own. Very simple designs, for example, can often be tackled by beginners. The process does require careful planning and a fair amount of work, but it can be done.

Using a kit - When handling some of the work, but not all of it appeals, kit construction can be a smart choice. While the homeowner (or a contractor) will handle the actual installation, much of the technical construction will already be taken care of when a kit is ordered. Companies that specialize in creating kits for sunrooms basically put these together so homeowners only have to assemble pre-sized and pre-cut pieces as they follow along with detailed instructions.

Relying on a contractor - There are construction companies that specialize in the design and installation of sunrooms. This is an excellent choice for homeowners who don't have the skills or inclination to handle installation personally. The option is also wise for the creation of particularly complicated designs. Going with a contractor might cost more, but it can be a very sound investment.

Sun room installation does present itself with several options. The best route to take will depend on personal preference, budget considerations and the complexity of the desired design. Sometimes homeowners can handle installation, but in other cases it's just smart to rely on a pro.

For more information on sunroom additions and other sunrooms and related topics, visit DIYSunroomsInfo.com.

Be Your Own General Contractor - A Good Choice For You?

We speak with many homeowners building their own homes who would like to save money by becoming their own general contractor. While it may be possible to save between 10% - 20% of project costs, it's important to take into account all of the responsibilities and the enormous investment of time. Think of being your own general contractor as being the president of your company. You will be required to to help. Home Project Managers cost less than a general contractor and can help you through parts of the project where you feel inexperienced.

Be available when needed and be on the job site as required, for an undetermined amount of time every day

Have more than an average understanding of general construction and home building

Set a construction schedule and meet strict deadlines

Juggle multiple tasks

Manage groups of people with different schedules and communication skills

Effectively work with the subcontractors

Check and sign off on the work performed by each subcontractor

Ensure that the crew is following safety procedures

Be able to solve problems that arise

Handle any schedule or material delays

Manage the financial aspects of the project, including budgeting, purchasing, and paying subcontractors.

As you can imagine, it's a big responsibility, and if not done correctly, it can cost you more time and money than if you had hired a professional general contractor to oversee your project. General contractors have established relationships with subcontractors and material suppliers, giving them leverage that the average homeowner does not. Also, in some cases, being your own general contractor can make it difficult to find financing, as lenders want to be assured the work is being done by qualified professionals.

Having such an enormous part in building your new home and being your own general contractor can certainly be a rewarding experience. If you want to be fully involved in building your home but are unsure whether you have what it takes, you might consider hiring a Home Project Manager

No doubt, the decision to be your own general contractor is a complex one. Know what is involved before undertaking such a big project and make the best decision for you.

About the Author: Jeremy Bonin, a principal partner of Bonin Architects & Associates (http://www.boninarchitects.com), is an award-winning green architect and the author of TIMBER FRAMES: Designing Your Custom Home. With a special interest in sustainable design and green homes, structural insulated panels (SIPs), as well as timber frame construction, Jeremy incorporates renewable energy practices where possible, including geo-thermal, solar, radiant heat, and energy-efficient foundation systems.