Posts
Log Home Basics
As we start to research log homes, it quickly becomes apparent that there is much more variety than one would ever think. Not only do log homes come in all shapes and sizes, but the logs themselves come in as many variations as you can imagine. Once you decide on the look you want, you can start eliminating manufacturers that don''t provide your system.
There are two categories of log homes: handcrafted and milled log homes. Initially, you may not realize what you are looking at, but there are some basic guidelines that will clarify the differences. A handcrafted log home is just that; the logs are peeled by hand, notched by hand, and in many cases, each log is scribed to fit exactly on top of another log. In many handcrafted homes, the logs are stacked alternately, so the large end of a log is stacked on top of the tapered end of the log beneath. A milled log home will feature logs that are uniform in shape, and the logs will be cut to fit together, such as with a tongue-and-groove or Swedish cope, so that they stack easily and evenly. There is a big price difference between a handcrafted and a milled log home. This is mostly because of the intense labor required to construct a handcrafted home, and because of the larger diameter logs that are normally used. The vast majority of homes built today are milled log homes.
If you see a log home with round logs and chinking, that is a first indication that this is could be a handcrafted log home. Chinking was historically a mortar-like material that filled the gaps between the logs. Modern science has created an acrylic compound that expands and contracts with the wood; it is applied as a wide white stripe. If a handcrafted log is not scribed, then chinking is a must because the logs leave gaps along their length. Some people do use chinking as a design feature even when it''s not necessary, though for the most part milled log homes are not chinked.
The characteristic corner of your log home will speak volumes to the person who knows how to read it. The profile and joinery system of the log will usually be reflected on the ends. For instance, on a handcrafted log home you''ll see the different diameters of the stacked logs. To stack them, these corners will be notched so that each log sits directly on the log below it (like a Lincoln Logs? toy). A milled log that is saddle-notched will stack the same way (of course, every log will look exactly the same). Because saddle-notched logs are staggered, course to course, the log ends will be visible on the interior corners of the house as well as the exterior. This gives a very rustic look. A butt-and-pass corner gives you an end where there is a space between every other log. This is because one log butts up against the intersecting log, which runs past it. These logs are all laid on the same course, so that with the interior corners of your home, the logs will come to a squared edge.
On milled logs, there are many joinery systems to choose from. Today, the most popular joinery is called a "Swedish cope". This is where each log is scooped out to fit snugly on the curve of the log beneath. It gives a very smooth and natural look. Another joinery system is the tongue-and-groove, or double tongue-and-groove depending on the manufacturer. The tongues are cut into the top of the log and corresponding grooves at the bottom. These create a tight fit and stack easily. A more traditional, early American notch is called the dove-tail, which is a mortise and tenon notch usually cut into squared timbers. There are many other corner systems available, but these are the most commonly used.
The shape, or profile of your log is another feature which will help you decide what kind of package to purchase. Many people prefer a "D" log, which is round on the outside and flat on the inside. This gives you a horizontal wood-paneling look, and is easy to hang pictures on. Others prefer a round log, which is a little more rustic and presents many challenges - such as how to join the logs to the sheetrock. Squared timbers, which give a more Appalachian look to the home, tend to be tall and fairly narrow, and are often grooved for the application of chinking. The average milled log home will use pine logs in 6" and 8" diameters. You can also find them in 10" and 12" diameters. Anything larger than 15" will probably roll you over to a handcrafted home. Cedar logs are an upgrade, and can be found in 6", 8" and occasionally 10" diameters. Some manufacturers more rarely use oak, cypress, fir, hemlock, larch, poplar, spruce, and walnut. These rarer woods will be a price upgrade. Because of the superior log care products on the market today that protect all the logs effectively, the wood species largely becomes a matter of personal taste. The best rule of thumb when choosing log species is to stay with a wood that is native to your area. The logs will adapt to the environment more comfortably.
Newcomers are continually amazed to discover that the logs are their own insulation. To compare a stick-frame wall to a log wall by using the "R-value" is not comparing "apples to apples". Logs have a lower "R-value" than insulated 2x4 walls. However, they work on the principal of thermal mass. Because of the cellular structure of logs, they tend to absorb the heat and hold it longer than traditional walls. The logs will actually absorb the heat from the interior of the house (or from the sun, if facing south), and when the temperature drops at night, the walls will generate that heat back into the house until the temperatures equalize. They take longer to warm up, and stay warm much longer. Conversely, they stay cooler in the summertime.
Some producers feature a half-log system, where the logs are attached outside-and-inside to 2x4 or 2x6 stick-frame walls. This adds the extra R-value of an insulated wall, along with the beauty of the log, and also makes it easier to install electrical wiring. Ultimately, these systems are a bit more expensive than full-log, because of the additional cost of the lumber. But they do give the added ability to vary the interior of your house, so that some interior walls could be sheetrock, stone, or tongue-and-groove. In any case, many modern manufacturers use the half-log system on their second floor, to compensate for the huge windows, which may displace so many logs that the wall''s integrity could be compromised. Also, because the large windows settle at a different rate than logs, the stick-framed second floor equalizes the overall settling. With the best manufacturers, you won''t be able to tell on the outside where the full logs end and the half logs begin.
Once you''ve chosen what kind of log you want, you will discover that manufacturers each specialize in their own unique fastening system. Almost all manufacturers use double-sided foam tape between log courses. Some companies use lag screws, threaded bolts, or spikes to add integrity to the walls; others use fancy spring-loaded through bolts that compress the logs. Once again, the choice becomes a personal preference.
It would save a lot of work for the buyer to get a "turnkey" price on the logs, the lumber, the windows and doors, and the roof - what is commonly known as a "weathered-in shell". However, this complete system only makes sense if you are local to the manufacturer; otherwise, you''ll be spending thousands of dollars to ship ordinary lumber across the country. After all, there is no difference between a roof used on an ordinary house and a roof used on a log home. You choose the kind of roof you want, but it''ll come from the same manufacturer. The same goes for the floors, the doors, the kitchen, and the heating system. Windows can be a little tricky; you''ll have to find a manufacturer that is willing to make a extended window-sill (or jamb) to accommodate the thickness of the logs. Most major window companies are able to do this.
Remember that log homes are completely custom. No log home company will offer you a choice of kitchens or bathrooms like a development builder. You will have to shop for these yourself, and the possibilities are limitless. Your builder may make some decisions for you, but you will be better served to pick your own flooring, light fixtures, faucets and even door knobs. Most manufacturers do not want to have anything to do with the foundation; that is not their business. You can use any kind of foundation you want, but you''ll need to contact a local contractor to do that job, or have your builder do so. Almost all log home manufacturers have an in-house architect who will configure your plan to fit their own particular system. Unless you have a lot of money to burn, don''t hire an outside architect to design your house, because the manufacturer will have to rework the plans anyway. If you want a quick start, the manufacturer will have a set of stock plans for you to choose from, and alter to fit your needs. Or you can design your home from scratch, and give them a rough set of drawings from which they will devise a set of building plans. This service is usually offered at no extra charge; there may be an up-front fee that is credited toward the final cost of the package.
Log homes are not maintenance-free - nor are they overwhelmingly laborious. Although the products on today''s market do a fantastic job of protecting the logs from sun, rain and insects, they do need to be re-applied ever three to five years depending on the wall exposure. This "maintenance coat" is much easier to apply than the original coats of stain, and no, you don''t have to strip off the old coat first. So it''s not as bad as it sounds! However, you must inspect the logs at least once a year for excessive cracking (or checking) - especially when the check opens upward, creating a water trap. These need to be caulked on the exterior walls. Also, do everything in your power to direct rainwater away from the house; if you have an overflowing gutter, deal with it at once. A damp log attracts rot and insects.
Expect your milled log home to take anywhere from 4 to 8 months to construct, depending on your weather, the availability of the crew (are they sharing your job with others at the same time?) and your planning. The most important thing you have to plan for is protecting the logs and the lumber from the elements. Set aside a large space (preferably covered with gravel) exclusively for the logs; you don''t want them sitting in the mud. Cover your gravel with a tarp, and bring extra tarps for the logs. The logs are going to get scattered as the crew picks through them, and they''re going to get stepped on and tossed around. They''re going to get rained on, and you''ll be amazed how quickly the logs weather. You''ll have to immediately remove the plastic wrapping when the logs are delivered, or they''ll get covered with mildew. The tarps will do the job. If your windows get delivered with the log package, you''d be best served to rent an enclosed trailer to store them in (FRAGILE is the operative word).
But I''m getting ahead of myself. As you may have gathered, people who build log homes tend to be more hands-on than with other kinds of construction. Log home customers are usually very well informed by the time they break ground - and they need to be! Cost overruns are often caused by unforeseen difficulties, and since your house is a one-of-a-kind, you''re in for quite a challenge. Luckily, the industry has matured quite a bit, and you are no longer completely on your own.
Mercedes Hayes is a Hiawatha Log Home dealer and also a Realtor in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. She designed her own log home which was featured in the 2004 Floor Plan Guide of Log Home Living magazine. You can learn more about log homes by visiting http://www.JerseyLogHomes.com.', 160, 'Log Home Basics, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Log Home Basics plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:05 AM | | 1 Comments
You Get What You Pay for when it Comes to Above Ground Pools
When you think about an above ground pool do you think of the inflatable toy baby pool? That''s what I thought and boy was I wrong. In fact, above ground pools are really nice quality and are sometimes the best solution for homeowners. Having the pool be less expensive is a nice quality also. Inground pools can take a long time to install and are very expensive to maintain as well. There are some problems with installing above ground pools if you don''t do them right. They are fantastic, but the installation is a big part of enjoying them to the max.
Some of the common problems regarding above ground pools are:
? Poor quality walls or liners of the pool (under $2500)
? Poor installation techniques
? Poor filtering media such as sand
? Inadequate pumps don''t match the filtering system
? Poor quality pool accessories
If you purchased an inexpensive "cheap" pool you can expect more problems. If you experience leaking, don''t bother to fix them. The problem will only get worse. As in most things you get what you pay for. These pools can be a waste of money and only if you plan on using them one summer should you even consider a purchase like this. A common problem is a mismatched filter and pump. You don''t want a filter that is too small with a pump that is too big. Bigger does not necessarily cost more. If your pieces don''t match, you will blow dirt into through the filter right into the pool. Get the properly matching systems from the very beginning and you will experience fewer problems. If your pump is a half horsepower, you should have the smallest sand filter of twenty one inches. Your sand must come in a bag that says it is filter sand. Don''t try and use sand from the local beach or sand that is labeled sandblast quality. That stuff is cheaper, but it won''t filter well. Y
ou''d be surprised what a difference this can make to the filtering of your pool. Since bigger is not always better, you might waste electricity if you try to install a large system. When it comes to purchasing a pool cleaning system, the best thing to do is to get a money back guarantee. If the pool cleaner you have doesn''t do the job to your satisfaction, make sure the dealer will take it back. The best pool cleaners can be very finicky when it comes to above ground pools and some only work best in inground pools. Just know you can take it back and get something different if it doesn''t do the job. If you want to eliminate all of the problems that are possible with above ground pools, I don''t know if that is a one size fits all answer. Purchase a good quality name brand pool from the very beginning, one that has a warranty, repair kit, and buy the best matched equipment possible. Listen to your gut instead of the salesman and you will enjoy your pool all summer long.
Bev Hlavka is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying above ground pools, patio furniture, gas grills, picnic tables, hammocks and more. Her many articles can be found at http://www.patio-furniture-4u.com/above_ground_pools.htm. She gives information and tips at http://www.patio-furniture-4u.com/index.htm to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.', 160, 'You Get What You Pay for when it Comes to Above Ground Pools, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'You Get What You Pay for when it Comes to Above Ground Pools plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:05 AM | | 1 Comments
A Carefully Planned Outdoor Kitchen is Worth the Investment
Do you have any idea how popular outdoor kitchens are becoming? We spend more time at home than ever before and we are fixing up those homes instead of buying new. Homeowners are opting for an outdoor kitchen over other types of remodeling projects because they extend the size of their living space. If they are spending more time at home, they are definitely entertaining more as well. Partying alfresco is a hot new trend because it is so relaxed and casual and it is less wear and tear on the house itself. Keep the guests outside as much as possible so you will have less clean up indoors.
There are some things to consider during the planning stages of the new kitchen. What is the style of your home? If you have a southwestern style in Arizona, it would be common sense to continue the style outside to the patio and the new kitchen area. It would look odd if you put in fragile looking patio furniture reminiscent of Victorian times next to the heavy terracotta. The same is true if you have a Victorian style and you want rustic log furniture in the back with a river rock fireplace. How do you like to entertain? Is a fancy barbecue in order? Do you want everything you need in one place for the kitchen so you don''t have to go in and out all the time? If you like to cook in groups with your friends helping you, you will need a lot of prep space; otherwise it could be much smaller. If you are planning on having the grill as the focal point, plan your counter around the grill because that is where you will be spending most of your time. If you just want a simple barbecue, how about an outdoor fireplace as the focal point?
Your guests could sit down around the fireplace in easy conversation while you just are off to the side making some appetizers. Are you planning on installing a pool as part of the remodel? If a water element is present such as a pool or hot tub, you might also want that to be a focal point. If you want a hot tub to be more private, consider putting up a gazebo to enclose it or just put it off to the side of the backyard. Whatever you decide, think carefully when you choose appliances and materials. Outdoor furnishing is quite different than picking out furniture for the indoors. What is going to withstand the torture of the elements better than other things? You might want to think install the things "of nature" when extending the kitchen. Stone for the countertops is nice and looks balanced with the outdoor setting. Whatever appliances you have, if you have a winter climate in your area, you need to prepare it by shutting down water lines, insulating pipes, and covering everything. During the planning, don''t forget about storage space. This doesn''t mean just cupboards space, but other storage for the things that need to be covered for winter, or for the pool toys and other backyard equipment you may have. When I entertain I like to have all of my party things in one place so I don''t have to hunt for them.
I usually use them just for parties and not for us as a family, and when I entertain I don''t have time to think about having the right dish and utensils available. The dishes I use outside are all outdoor friendly. I don''t have to worry about my favorite plate being broken on the concrete. They are exactly where I need them when I need them. Don''t forget about the music system when making your plans. It is quite easy to install outdoor water resistant speakers for your musical enjoyment. A bar should be a consideration as well.
They are a great extension to any outdoor kitchen. Even if you make nothing but lemonade for your guests, you will need plenty of ice and glassware at easy reach. I think the most fun in an outdoor kitchen is the preparation. People should feel easy and relaxed walking around and enjoying nature as well. No one should feel uncomfortable in a beautiful outdoor setting. Have lots of seating planned which promotes great conversation. Let the beauty of the surroundings and the preparations of the food provide the entertainment for your guests. Even the ones that don''t enjoy cooking won''t be able to resist the invitation for your outdoor affair.
Bev Hlavka is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying patio furniture, gas grills, picnic tables and more. Her many articles can be found at http://www.patio-furniture-4u.com/Outdoor%20Kitchens.htm . She gives information and tips at http://www.patio-furniture-4u.com to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.', 160, 'A Carefully Planned Outdoor Kitchen is Worth the Investment, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'A Carefully Planned Outdoor Kitchen is Worth the Investment plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:04 AM | | 0 Comments
New Jersey Home Remodeling
The U.S. state of New Jersey lies on the Eastern seaboard, with New York to its north and northeast, and Delaware and Pennsylvania to its west. New Jersey became heavily industrialized soon after the Revolutionary War, with the building of canals and railroads. It retained its position as a heavily industrialized state well after World War II. However, it is now better known as a commuters'' state, because many people who live in New Jersey commute to work in New York City, Delaware, and Pennsylvania. People prefer to buy homes in the suburbs of New Jersey''s cities and travel to work in other states.
At Total Remodeling, we have done several home remodeling projects in New Jersey. Since New Jersey was one of the original 13 colonies, its craftsmen, architects, and designers absorbed several styles that were popular in the colonial period and also copied Victorian examples. Many homes in New Jersey have been built in the Neoclassical and Victorian styles. Most homes in New Jersey are built of wood, and since New Jersey is bordered on the east by the Atlantic Ocean, the wood does tend to show signs of wear and tear within a few years.
Total Remodeling has done several projects in New Jersey using vinyl siding and roofing products, as well as doors and windows. We have used modern home remodeling products to give a new look to homes designed in the Victorian style. For example, we used vinyl siding products to finish a Second Empire French Victorian house in Maplewood, New Jersey, and received an award for our efforts. The vinyl siding products we use-System 2000 and Elite-replicate the look of cedar clapboard but require less maintenance. Our skilled craftsmen were also able to add and emphasize authentic period details that enhanced the look of the house.
Many homeowners in New Jersey have consulted us on home remodeling projects when they planned to sell their homes. One of our home remodeling projects in New Jersey was for a couple whose children had just joined college-this project took us four years to complete. At the end of this project, the couple hoped to sell their home of 15 years for at least $300,000, which was the closing price in their locality. They closed the sale of their home at $410,000.
Whether or not you plan to sell your home or live in it for the rest of your days, you can always consult us at Total Remodeling for your home remodeling needs.
Dan Noyes
For More Information on Home Remodeling Ideas', 160, 'New Jersey Home Remodeling, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'New Jersey Home Remodeling plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:03 AM | | 0 Comments
Make Simple Curtains and Valance for any Window
Making a quick set of curtains and a valance is something that you can do even if you don''t have much sewing experience. It''s just a matter of thinking through the process and calculating for fabric needed and knowing how to use a sewing machine.
Tools needed: calculator, pencil and paper, tape measure, yard stick, pins, scissors, iron, thread and sewing machine.
Decide what color or pattern will work best with your room décor now. Going to the fabric store is always one of my most fun times, I keep my imagination open and get swatches of fabrics (and prices) the first time to see what all my options are. Take swatches home and start eliminating them by laying them next to major parts of the already decorated room (couch, chair, tables, walls, etc). Once you''ve decided on your fabric start measuring.
To measure for material, decide how long you would like the valance to be. Where will you place the curtains in the window? Will you do them café style or halfway down the window? Maybe you only want a small space between the valance and curtain, use your imagination, draw a sketch of the window and do some placements on it to see what looks good.
Once you make these decisions, measure from your top reference point (top of window, top of rod) down to where you want the valance to end. Add additional 7" for top and bottom hems (this will give you 3" for top hem, which rod will go through and 4" for bottom hem). Let''s say you want your valance to be 10" long, add 7" for hem and you have 17". Now measure for your bottom curtains. The same goes here, measure from top reference point (where your curtains will start) to just BELOW or ABOVE the windowsill. Add the 7" to this length. EXAMPLE: 32" bottom curtain length, add 7" = 39". Write all this down. For width across, measure across window from outside to outside molding. Depending on how "full" you want the curtains, will be the deciding factor on how much material you purchase. Normal fullness recommendation would be twice the window width, or at least ½ again as much. We are going to be very basic, let''s say a normal window is 36" across X 60" length. This means you will need to calculate double the width for the valance and curtains, but remember the curtains are split in the middle. Most material will run 36"? 44" (regular material) to 60" (drapery & upholstery material) in width. If you choose a fabric width of 36"- 44", it will be easier to just use the width doubled. If it''s wider cut a little off the ends if needed.
Now it''s time to go get your material! Take your swatch, sketch and measurements with you! I would recommend a pliable fabric that is easy to work with (cotton, broadcloth, etc). Have your material store sales person help you with calculating the amount, and give you any details in laying out, especially if it has a design going a specific way or has a nap. In most cases, 3-3½ yards should be plenty per window.
Pre-wash the material if you choose. If you do not pre-wash material and wash the curtains later expecting them to be the same length, you may be surprised! If you have pre-washed your material, take it out of dryer, fold in half, wrong side out (if you can tell), like it was previously from store off the bolt, and lay it on your surface and smooth it out (table, floor, etc.). Do the same for all widths of material; this will make it easier to handle. You may want to touch up with an iron.
Time to mark the fabric and cut! Your material is now laid out (not many wrinkles). You''ll want to get an even line across the top using your yardstick. Mark a straight line with a pencil along the top (if darker material a pen will work or even chalk if you have it). Eyeball it to make sure it looks even, sometimes the fabric store will not cut it even so it''s up to you. This will be your starting reference point (this will be a cutting line for you). Get your calculations for the length for each: valance and curtain. Now measure from that straight line down for valance length needed, do this twice because it needs to be doubled for fullness (unless 60" width fabric). Make a mark. Do the same halfway across and on the folded edge. Now put your yardstick across from mark to mark and draw a line (this will also be a cutting line). Do the same for curtains. Each curtain side gets its own length (unless 60" width fabric). Grab a couple of pins and pin just inside the edges and lines of each section you marked. Cut along lines. You should have 4 pieces cut, 2 for the valance and 2 for each curtain side.
Once again were going to mark, this time on the right side of fabric. Open up your pieces, right side of fabric up, lay them out straight, using a pencil, lightly mark 3" down from straight top on each piece, make several marks across. Use yardstick to connect marks to make a straight line. Do the same on the bottom, 4" up from straight edge. Mark 1" in on both side edges of each piece. Mark all pieces. Make sure all marks are lightly placed on outside of fabric, but dark enough so you can see them. Sew two valance pieces together, so it''s one long piece. Press seam flat. Fold under side edges of all pieces turning under ½" twice (will be 1" all together, pencil line should be on outside edges), press & stitch along inside folded under edge. Press up hems to inside of material along all marked lines. Fold them under ½ of width and press again. Stitch along that folded edge on inside. Holding fabric as you stitch to make sure fabric doesn''t bunch up. You should have a 2" bottom hem for each piece and a 1½" hem for top hem to slide curtain rods through. Make sure to backstitch when you begin sewing and at the end to reinforce stitching from coming out.
Viola'', there you have it! This process should only take about 1½ hours. Put your rods through the top hems of curtains. Put up valance and curtains.
About the Author: Robin Hall has been a successful Tailor by trade in the Midwest with over 30 years in business. She has sewn everything from leather, to clothes and alterations including home décor items. She has just started an online home décor store where you will find a little bit of everything including great tips on decorating and home improvement. Please stop by and see us/her at http://www.coollampsnstuff.com or send email with questions to sales@coollampsnstuff.com', 167, 'Make Simple Curtains and Valance for any Window, Interior-Decorating, Interior-Decorating articles, Interior-Decorating information, about Interior-Decorating, what is Interior-Decorating, Interior Design & Decorating Information', 'Make Simple Curtains and Valance for any Window plus articles and information on Interior-Decorating
9:10 AM | | 0 Comments
The Art Of Home Decoration
If you would have your rooms interesting as well as beautiful, make them say something, give them a spinal column by keeping all ornamentation subservient to line.
Before you buy anything, try to imagine how you want each room to look when completed; get the picture well in your mind, as a painter would;think out the main features, for the details all depend upon these and will quickly suggest themselves. This is, in the long run, the quickest and the most economical method of furnishing.
There is a theory that no room can be created all at once, that it must grow gradually. In a sense this is a fact, so far as it refers to the amateur. The professional is always occupied with creating and recreating rooms and can instantly summon to mind complete schemes of decoration. The amateur can also learn to mentally furnish rooms. It is a fascinating pastime when one gets the knack of it.
Beautiful things can be obtained anywhere and for the minimum price, if one has a feeling for line and colour, or for either. If the lover of the beautiful was not born with this art instinct, it may be quickly acquired. A decorator creates or rearranges one room; the owner does the next, alone, or with assistance, and in a season or two has spread his or her own wings and worked out legitimate schemes, teeming with individuality. One observes, is pleased with results and asks oneself why. This is the birth of good taste.
Treat your rooms like "still life," see to it that each group, such as a table, sofa, and one or two chairs make a "composition," suggesting comfort as well as beauty. Never have an isolated chair, unless it is placed against the wall, as part of the decorative scheme.
Marjan Zemljic is owner of http://www.home-decorating-ideas-and-tips.com and author of How to break into the interior design industry. In his book you will find out how you can do exactly that. For more informaion on home decorating ideas visit his website and learn how to create the home of your dreams.', 167, 'The Art Of Home Decoration, Interior-Decorating, Interior-Decorating articles, Interior-Decorating information, about Interior-Decorating, what is Interior-Decorating, Interior Design & Decorating Information', 'The Art Of Home Decoration plus articles and information on Interior-Decorating
9:09 AM | | 1 Comments
Home Décor Tips To Impress Your Friends
Step 1: Pick a motif and go with it! Don''t pair your childhood bedspread with a new wrought iron bed and lace curtains. Choose colors that remind you of things you love. For example, my bedroom is all done in tan and pastels, because those colors make me feel like I''m in a spring meadow. Other favorite motifs include ocean, fall or sunset. Make it the vibe that fills the room. This mean not just your bedding, but also any framed artwork or standing decorations should go with the motif.
Step 2: Make it smell yummy! A room with a pleasant, inviting fragrance is a great start to creating that special space where you go to escape. Choose scented candles in your favorites smells. Vanilla is always relaxing and tantalizing. Another choice: incense. It comes in limitless scents, and you can be constantly changing your scented sticks to match your mood. Plus, incense holders are decorations in themselves. They can be wooden or ceramic, and some even come in statue form, so pick one that goes along with the motif you''ve selected! If you''re not up for burning, then go with a nice air freshener or plug in to give your space the smell that makes you come running.
Step 3: Make it soft! Your bedroom is the place where you should feel the most comfortable, so make it your own nest. You should hardly be able to hold back from cuddling up in your soft bedspread (I recommend down!) and pile of overstuffed pillows. Also, a soft, cushy rug beside the bed is the perfect way to start your day of on the right foot.
Step 4: Get rid of the mess! Nothing kills a good mood like walking into a cluttered room. Your place of relaxation should not be polluted with dirty clothes on the floor and piles of things "to be put away." If you take the attitude that your room is your paradise, and when in it you should feel spoiled, you won''t want to leave yucky messes lingering among your goodies. Invest in plastic crates that slide easily under the bed or in the closet for out-of-sight storage.
Step 5: Personalize! If someone else entered your room they should know you live there. Fill it with things you love. Whether you like artsy decorations or plant life or black and white collages of you and your loved ones, surround yourself with the things that make you feel happy!
Research from: Cosmopolitan, February 2005
Keith Kingston is a professional web publisher who offers advice on choosing your couch sofa, recliner, or leather sofa', 167, 'Home Décor Tips To Impress Your Friends, Interior-Decorating, Interior-Decorating articles, Interior-Decorating information, about Interior-Decorating, what is Interior-Decorating, Interior Design & Decorating Information', 'Home Décor Tips To Impress Your Friends plus articles and information on Interior-Decorating
9:08 AM | | 1 Comments
Decorating on a Shoestring Budget
Right now one of the most popular shows on television is, â??Trading Spaces.â?? If you havenâ??t gotten an opportunity to watch this show, the object of the game is to decorate one room in someone elseâ??s house with a budget of a $1,000. The decoratorâ??s truly struggle to accomplish this so you know it is hard when even they, trained professionals, are having problems creating the room of the homeownerâ??s dreams.
Do not despair just because your money is limited- you can still create a warm and inviting home frugally. When people come into our home and see our front room (the only room we have decorated since we are relatively new homeowners) they always comment on how beautiful our drapes, furniture, and whole look of this room is. Do you think I disclose that we put the furniture together ourselves and that the whole décor came compliments of Target? No way! Never divulge the sordid details, just simply bask in the glory and let them try to recreate your look. Here are a few tips for creating an inviting home on a budget.
• Watch television shows, read books, and look through magazines to gather inspiration for creating a stylish home. Although many of the things you look at are completely out of your budget, you can try to recreate it with lower costing materials and a little creativity. Some great looks can be found on www.potterybarn.com, www.pierone.com , www.ikea.com, and www.marthastewart.com.
• Paint is the cheapest way to really change a room. One thing I have learned is to never be afraid of color- bright colors can really liven up a room. Be wary though with small rooms because this can make the rooms look smaller and closed off. In smaller rooms use softer and lighter colors- yellows, light green, lavenders, and white/off-white.
• Getting your home organized will make your house look well-kept. To find out some great ways to get your home as well as yourself organized, go to www.organizedhome.com . This site is wonderful for learning how and what you need to do to clear out the rubbish in your home. With different styles of baskets to organize your items it not only makes the room look cleaner, but it also adds to the décor.
• Target, Kmart, and Walmart all offer great items for your home at a much lower cost. Target has fantastic drapes, tableware, towels, pillows, and furniture for your home. Kmart offers incredible linens, drapes, and sheets from the Martha Stewart line. Walmart offers great fabrics for those do-it-yourself projects in making pillows, drapes, and linens.
• To add pictures to your walls, look through old art books or photograph books. Buy a cheap frame to put it in and you will have beautiful artwork for a fraction of the cost.
• Rearrange your furniture in your home. Try to find new ways to break up a room or to make the room more open and inviting.
• Light a candle and put potpourri in a bowl. This really warms up a room, not to mention adding a beautiful smell to the air.
• Find slipcovers for your couches. Doing this is a lot cheaper then buying a new sofa and when you get tired of it you can take the covers off. These are especially nice if you have little children because it is a great way to preserve the quality of your furniture. The slipcovers are easier to clean because you can throw them in the wash, unlike your couch. A couple of great places to look for nice slipcovers are www.kohls.com and www.surefit.com.
• Want something in particular in your home, but canâ??t afford it? Hit www.ebay.com and bid on it. Ebay always has great things for your house not to mention beautiful antiques and collectibles which make your home more unique.
• Buy large pillows to use as extra seating. These are great for when you have a large group over and not enough seating. Donâ??t invest in more seating; just buy big beautiful pillows for your guests to sit on.
• Go to the garage sales, but go early. Those who wait do not get the deals that the early risers get. Donâ??t underestimate the Salvation Army and Goodwill either because you can find some interesting and beautiful things for your house.
• Learn one craft that will aid you in decorating your home. Several of the fabric and craft stores offer wonderful classes for learning crafts such as sewing and floral for a very low cost. By learning crafts you can make things yourself at a lower cost or you may be able to make money off of this to afford you more luxuries in your home- you just never know.
• Hit your local Dollar Tree for some great buys on things to make your home more inviting. You might laugh at this one, but you would be surprised what ends up at that store. I have bought beautiful mugs, baskets, and stationary for a buck a piece and no one knows that I spent so little money. Try to think outside the box and go to the stores that are normally not known for quality houseware. This is where you get the real deals.
• Purchase all different types of blankets and put them under your end tables or drape one on your sofa. They make your guests feel cozy and invited especially on those cold winter nights.
• Put a book or two on your coffee table that can be a conversation piece, but don''t overdo it. People tend to get carried away with this and then you lose the beauty of the furniture underneath. One or two books are nice, but four or five looks like clutter.
• If you buy the do-it-yourself furniture or have a piece that looks like it needs a face-lift try replacing the knobs on those cabinets and drawers. A beautiful brushed silver knob or ornate gold knob can make the item look entirely different.
• Replace your old plastic curtain rods with sterling silver or gold rods. Target and Kmart have some really beautiful ones with different styles of ends (leaves, fruit, glass) that really add that special touch.
• Try a theme room, but donâ??t get carried away. Remember that whatever theme you chose you will have to live with it for a long time. Go for classic themes that seem to withstand the ages. If you choose to pick a theme for the room do hints of it throughout rooms, but donâ??t make the entire room one big theme. Just give your guestâ??s hints of it.
I hope these tips will offer you some insight on decorating your own home. My advice to you is that you start small and with one room at a time. Do not get carried away with redoing your whole home or you will feel overwhelmed. Concentrate your efforts on one project until you are completely satisfied and then begin thinking about another project.
Amy Allen Clark is a stay-at-home mother of a two year old son. She is founder and creator of http://www.momadvice.com Her web site is geared towards mothers who are seeking advice on staying organized, living on a budget, and for those seeking work-at-home employment. The author resides in Granger, Indiana and her hobbies include reading, writing, and cooking. Please visit her web site for more information on these various topics for mothers', 167, 'Decorating on a Shoestring Budget, Interior-Decorating, Interior-Decorating articles, Interior-Decorating information, about Interior-Decorating, what is Interior-Decorating, Interior Design & Decorating Information', 'Decorating on a Shoestring Budget plus articles and information on Interior-Decorating
9:07 AM | | 0 Comments
Purchasing Framed Art For Your Home or Office - a Novel Way to Decorate
Framed art is an ideal compliment to any room of your home or office. Decorating an environment using framed artwork is quick, easy and is usually relatively inexpensive. People generally choose framed art because it matches their decor, or because they like the actual piece and conducting this selection can be great fun because the choice is simply huge.
Today, there are currently thousands of artists who have allowed their work to be transferred into framed prints. But this is not a new thing. The world has appreciated the work of artists for many years. While many of the modern day artists go unannounced to the world, many others already have stamped their mark on the world. Pablo Picasso, Vincent Van Gogh, Claude Monet, and many other classic artists will live on through their artwork forever and buying print versions of their work is both popular and common.
Appreciating the work of artists ? irrespective of whether they are known or unknown is an important part of the cultural aspect of life. In order to be a well-rounded person, it helps to build a healthy appreciation for art. A great way to show your admiration is through the purchase and display of framed art. Framed art prints are less expensive than actual paintings so this lets you enjoy the many options for decorating your environment.
Purchasing framed art for your home or office is a novel way to decorate. Framed prints are available of nearly every famous painting or photograph. But what piece do you buy? You can start with a neutral wall paint and then add color by placing framed art on the wall and then add some matching throw cushions to your couch. Because framed art is relatively inexpensive you are then free to change the look from season to season depending on your mood, the weather or a special event.
If you are going to decorate or redecorate a room or office, framed art is a quick and easy solution because the selection of artists and prints is enormous. Prints - otherwise known as framed art - can be a copy of any type of artwork, including paintings, photographs, and more. Prints are very affordable, and look great when they are framed. Framed art prints are sold as bundles or sets together, as well as separately. If you find a great print from a resource that does not sell frames, you can purchase a frame separately.
The frame you choose depends on your tastes and preferences. You can even consider purchasing a cheap $2 print and dress it with an expensive frame for a really tasteful look. Framed artwork can vary in price and quality. Frames can be simple, or more elaborate, depending on the price. If you are going to purchase the frame separate from the painting, you need to decide if you want it to match the artwork, or your decor. Either way, the artwork is going to look great framed and is usually really enhanced by the frame that you choose.
Are you looking for information on anything and everything Art related? Check out YU Art at: http://www.yuart.com YU Art , published by Susan G Phillips, is a complete resource directory covering the complete A to Z of Art topics You can view more YU Art articles at: http://www.yuart.com/archive', 167, 'Purchasing Framed Art For Your Home or Office - a Novel Way to Decorate, Interior-Decorating, Interior-Decorating articles, Interior-Decorating information, about Interior-Decorating, what is Interior-Decorating, Interior Design & Decorating Information', 'Purchasing Framed Art For Your Home or Office - a Novel Way to Decorate plus articles and information on Interior-Decorating
9:06 AM | | 0 Comments
Seeking Balance in Your Home Decor
In our homes, as in other parts of our lives, we are happier when we live with balance and harmony. Just like the rest of our lives, balance in the rooms of our homes is sometimes hard to create. For many years, decorators and home owners tried to create this physical balance by having pairs of everything: 2 matching end tables, a matched pair of wing chairs, even sets of twin beds in the master bedroom. This certainly created a balanced room. It also created rooms that were sterile, formal and visually boring. In a formal setting or a Federal or Georgian home, this is still the way things should be to look ''right.'' Our ancestors valued this perfect balance so highly that they created false doors in hallways so that both sides matched or doors that looked like windows so that the right and left sides of the back of a house matched perfectly. This can still be seen if you go to visit some of our historic homes. A notable example is the Hammond-Harwood House in Annapolis, Md. We, however, tend to prefer a more relaxed approach to our homes. So how do we create a feeling of balance without matched pairs of everything? You can use: Color Dark colors have more ''weight'' than light colors. Actual size Height, depth and width of an object Mass A thick bulky looking object has more ''weight'' than a fragile, delicate one. Just visualize a blown glass vase and a terracotta pot of the same size. Number A group of several like objects in different sizes grouped together creates ''weight.'' Think of an assortment of silver candlesticks. Light A dark corner has more ''weight'' than one filled with light. If you want to prove this to yourself, gather together a group of assorted objects and use a tabletop/mantel and try out different scenarios. Be sure you have different sizes, colors, textures and shapes. You can put a larger framed picture against one end and a slightly smaller one in front of it. On the other end of your table put a heavy pot. Do the same thing with a matching pot at each end. Try pairing the picture group with an assortment of candles in candlesticks. Each time you create an arrangement, step back and look at it. In fact, if you have a digital camera, take a picture of it. If you do this for a while you will start to get a feel for balance. You can actually give the illusion that the tabletop is tilted slightly by throwing off the visual balance. The same effect can occur in your room arrangements. If you doubt this, close your eyes and try to ''see'' a room in which you felt physically uncomfortable or slightly disoriented even though there was no obvious reason. A room in which the heavy items are all on one side of the room, almost feels as though the floor tilts. Once you have a feel for balance you can start to create a harmonious home. Stand in the doorway of any room in your house that you feel isn''t ''right.'' What do you see? Does the burgundy chair stick out like there is a spotlight on it? Does the entertainment center overwhelm the room? Do you have a TV and a fireplace battling for focal point? Do your easy chairs look like they were made for children next to your mammoth sofa? Does your fireplace mantel look like you are setting up for a tag sale? Your room is out of balance. Move the furniture around and try different arrangements until you have one that works. Unless you have a room that is just for show like a Victorian parlor, you need to be able to use the room comfortably. Once the practical set-up is done, look at the room from different angles. If the room is out of balance use color and accessories, plants and pictures, groups of like objects, light and volume to create an illusion of balance. Try grouping the accessories on your mantels and tabletops. Balance the entertainment center on one side of the fireplace with a tall plant or group of plants on the other. Note: avoid having the tops of everything at the same height. You might as well draw a line around your room. Repeat the color of the chair in pillows, throws, lampshades or the matting around a group of pictures. You really will be amazed at the difference it makes. We may all be born craving balance but except for the lucky few, we have to learn to achieve it. There is a myriad of books on the subject and it can help to read them and look at the pictures, but the best way to get a feel for balance is ''hands on.'' Experiment with portable objects until you get a feel for what works and then enjoy creating your harmonious home.
Indra A Books, author of this and many other lifestyle articles is the owner and founder of ON THE GO 4 U, Personal Shoppers & Concierge Service in the Washington DC metropolitan area. The company''s creed is to provide its clients with the ultimate life management experience. In addition to its shopping and concierge services, ON THE GO 4 U also publishes a monthly e-zine and conducts workshops on wardrobe, entertaining and decorating. For more information about the author and ON THE GO 4 U, please visit http://www.onthego4u.net Content for this article was provided by Suzanne Copenhaver, Design Consultant to ON THE GO 4 U. Suzanne has years of experience decorating in less than ideal situations and always provides us with tons of insight. © 2005 Indra Books for ON THE GO 4 U', 167, 'Seeking Balance in Your Home Decor, Interior-Decorating, Interior-Decorating articles, Interior-Decorating information, about Interior-Decorating, what is Interior-Decorating, Interior Design & Decorating Information', 'Seeking Balance in Your Home Decor plus articles and information on Interior-Decorating
9:05 AM | | 0 Comments
Can Your Sundial Really Tell The Time?
"I am a sundial, and I make a botch
Of what is done far better by a watch"
So wrote Hilaire Belloc, but is this really fair? Sundials are the earliest known form of time-keeping having been used for some five thousand years. The Greek historian Herodotus stated that sundials were first used by the Chaldeans and Sumerians in Babylonia which was part of the modern Iraq. They used vertical rods on their buildings and noted the position of the shadow to record the passing of the hours. The concept was developed by the Greeks and Romans who constructed various different shapes of dial to enable them to tell the time and the season of the year. Usually these were bowl-shaped dials with vertical or horizontal gnomons (shadow-casters) and hour lines marked in the hollow of the bowl. Over the years more elaborate designs were produced until the advent of accurate clocks when the function of the sundial became more decorative than as a reliable means of telling the time.
The question is often asked "Can a sundial really tell the correct time?" to which you will receive the Alice in Wonderland reply that it depends upon what you mean by "the correct time". Our clocks and watches work on the basis of there being exactly twenty-four hours between one day and the next but, because of the eliptical nature of the earth''s orbit around the sun, the time shown on the sundial will vary according to the seasons. In February by the clock the sun is almost fifteen minutes slow, whereas during the spring and summer months it gains and loses between four and six minutes in two cycles. At the other extreme in November the sundial appears to be some seventeen minutes fast. In fact the sundial is accurate on only four days of the year, about April 15, June 14, September 2 and December 25. Some sundials include a table showing the deviation from "clock time" according to the date.
The time indicated by the sun will also vary with the location of the dial. The sun travels across the sky at the rate of fifteen degrees per hour so every degree of longditude represents a difference of four minutes from the standard meridian for the region. The angle of the gnomon also depends on the situation, so to set up your sundial correctly you need to know both the latitude and longditude of its location. For the United States and the United Kingdom this site can provide the information. The gnomon should be set at the angle in degrees which is equal to the latitude of your location. The sundial can then be fixed with the gnomon pointing to the Pole Star. There are various ways of achieving this, the easiest of which, is to use a compass adjusted for the magnetic variation. Further details are beyond the scope of this article, but for those interested look at this site.
If you have read this far you will have discovered that there is a great deal more to the sundial than a mere item of garden decoration. If this has piqued your interest in the subject, then you are not alone. There are Sundial Societies in countries around the world. The North American Sundial Society has details of its objects and activities on its website.
A number of sundial trails have been established. A good example is the Thames Sundial Trail in London, England. This site lists a number of other trails in countries all over the world but only two in the United States. However the North American Sundial Society has a complete list on its website.
Two rather different designs are shown here. The first, which is commonly referred to as a Human Sundial, uses the person''s shadow to indicate the time. By standing in the appropriate box for the date the shadow will show the correct time. The second is a Digital Sundial which sounds like a contradiction in terms but in reality is just a rather clever design.
Many sundials have a motto inscribed on the face. Often these are rather serious in tone and of the "Tempus fugit" variety but you also find some written in a lighter vein. Here are a few of my favourites:
The shadow of my finger cast
Divides the future from the past
The clock the time may wrongly tell,
I never if the sun shines well
I stand amid the summer flowers
To tell the passage of the hours
And finally again from Hilaire Belloc:
I am a sundial, turned the wrong way round.
I cost my foolish mistress fifty pounds!
Hugh Harris-Evans is the owner of The Garden Supplies Advisor where you will find further articles, gardening tips and product reviews.', 170, 'Can Your Sundial Really Tell The Time?, Landscaping-Gardening, Landscaping-Gardening articles, Landscaping-Gardening information, about Landscaping-Gardening, what is Landscaping-Gardening, Landscaping & Gardening Information', 'Can Your Sundial Really Tell The Time? plus articles and information on Landscaping-Gardening
4:48 AM | | 0 Comments
Daphnes for Scent and Colour
Anyone with even a passing knowledge of plants knows that daphnes have wonderfully fragrant flowers. And because some of them - usually the most scented - flower in winter, they''re the sort of must-have plants that are usually among the first planted in any new garden.
There are around 50 species of Daphne, many of which are choice garden specimens. They are widespread lot, ranging from Europe and North Africa to temperate and subtropical Asia. Most of them are evergreen or nearly so, but a few are deciduous, often flowering before the foliage expands.
The plant everyone calls daphne is Daphne odora, particularly the cultivar ''Leucantha'' , which is often misspelt ''Leucanthe'' . This shrub, a native of China and Japan, sells in vast numbers, mainly on the strength of its perfume, but also because it''s a reasonably hardy evergreen bush. It grows to around 1.5m tall with leathery, deep green leaves up to 80mm long. From mid-winter on into spring it produces clusters of small, starry, pale pink flowers. Several flower and foliage forms are available and the variety with yellow-edged leaves, ''Variegata'' (sometimes called ''Aureomarginata'' ), is often hardier and easier to grow than the species.
Daphne odora can be quite particular about soil conditions and is slightly frost tender in cold winter areas. It does best in cool, moist, humus enriched, well-drained, acid soil in sun or light shade. Work in plenty of compost or similar organic matter - it''s impossible to use too much - and feed regularly with liquid fertilisers and an occasional side dressing of acid fertiliser. Kept healthy, D. odora develops quickly and is attractive even without flowers, but it isn''t a long-lived bush. You can expect to have to replace it at least every 8-10 years.
Because daphnes are so popular, nurseries propagate thousands of them every year. For many years the plants were nearly all cutting-raised and with repeated propagation by this method the cutting stocks declined and became badly infected with viral diseases that were transmitted to their progeny. Around fifteen years ago Daphne odora ''Leucantha'' was refreshed by producing new plants by tissue culture, thereby eliminating most of the disease problems. At the time, the improved appearance of these virus-free "high-health" plants was remarkable. Although since then new batches of tissue cultured plants have been introduced, many of the original high-health daphnes were used as cutting stock and now these plants are showing viral problems. When buying ''Leucantha'' try to ensure that you get a tissue cultured plant or a first or second generation cutting from cultured stock.
Several other species are similar in appearance to Daphne odora and are well worth growing as slightly different alternatives to what everyone else has. Of these, Daphne bholua and Daphne laureola are the most commonly available.
Daphne bholua occurs in both deciduous and evergreen forms, but here they all seem to behave as semi-evergreens (or semi-deciduous if you like). It is shrub up to 3m tall, sometimes rather narrow and open in habit, that like Daphne odora flowers in winter and spring. The flowers are strongly scented, white-tinged-pink and open from deep pink buds. Black fruits (drupes) follow the flowers.
First classified in 1825 but slow to enter cultivation, it is one of a group of four species known as paper daphnes because in their home range paper and ropes were made from their bark. It was first recorded in gardens in 1938, but didn''t really become at all widely grown until the late 1960s to mid 70s.
Native to the eastern Himalayas, it is somewhat tougher than Daphne odora under New Zealand conditions. Though strangely, British references often rate it as slightly less hardy. Whatever the reason for its local success, just be happy to know that in most of our gardens it thrives.
Daphne bholua is difficult to raise from cuttings and although it can be grafted, seed is the best method of propagation. The seed germinates well and while the seedlings are slow to start into strong growth, they gain vigour with age and usually flower in their fourth year.', 170, 'Daphnes for Scent and Colour, Landscaping-Gardening, Landscaping-Gardening articles, Landscaping-Gardening information, about Landscaping-Gardening, what is Landscaping-Gardening, Landscaping & Gardening Information', 'Daphnes for Scent and Colour plus articles and information on Landscaping-Gardening
4:48 AM | | 0 Comments
Patio Design ? Expanding Your Home Outdoors
A patio can be just like another room in your house. Effective patio design can mean that your increase the floor space of your home, by adding an outside room that allows you to entertain like never before. A patio can just be a rectangular slab of concrete with some plastic chairs and griller, but it can also be so much more.
What comes to mind when you think of a patio?
Patio design gives you the opportunity to create an outside living area ? an extension of your home ? for entertaining and relaxing all year round. For instance, people who like to entertain may want to consider a patio with an undercover kitchen and dining area. By adding a barbecue grill, a built in fridge and some quality outdoor furniture, the patio can, in itself, become a feature of your home.
When commencing a new patio design, it is important to remember that your new outdoor entertaining area does not need to be expensive. There are a variety of different patio surfaces to fit a particular style or budget, including concrete pavers, natural clay stones and bricks. There is no need to stick to one type of paving or surface - experiment. Pebbles, gravels, bricks and tiles, can all be incorporated. A contrasting brick edge can also be effective. Similarly, patio shades need not be extensive, just enough to cover the main cooking and eating areas; after all, why block out the view of your gorgeous garden in the midday sun or the stars in the sky on a clear night.
Consider textures, colors, and materials before starting
One of the most important considerations of patio design is landscaping. Plants help to soften the hard surface of a patio floor by providing color, texture and fragrance and they set the mood for an outdoor living space. Further, you might also like to consider the use of a water feature and some soft low voltage lighting or candles, to create a stunning patio setting for night time entertaining.
Finally, selecting the right furniture is the key to the perfect patio design. There is no need to spend thousands of dollars on the right setting; more importantly you want to select items that are durable, basic in color and rich in style and sophistication. Consider resin coated wicker or rattan pieces that can be dressed up with different cushions and throw rugs. These items can be changed regularly to cater for a themed party or more simply, to match the changes in your flourishing flower beds.
A patio design can be as elaborate or as straightforward as you want it to be. Patios can be arranged in any shape and size and can be refreshed regularly just like the interior of your home. Outdoor entertaining is an increasing pastime ? enjoy it with family and friends!
Nicholas webb is the owner of http://www.allabout-patio.com A site that providing user-friendly patio furniture and patio accessories consumer tips and buying advice for the outdoor lover. Check it out before parting with your money.
', 170, 'Patio Design ? Expanding Your Home Outdoors, Landscaping-Gardening, Landscaping-Gardening articles, Landscaping-Gardening information, about Landscaping-Gardening, what is Landscaping-Gardening, Landscaping & Gardening Information', 'Patio Design ? Expanding Your Home Outdoors plus articles and information on Landscaping-Gardening
4:48 AM | | 0 Comments
Discount Patio Furniture ? An Easy Way to Get the Best
Buying discount patio furniture is an economical way to obtain quality furniture for your patio.
Many department stores offer patio furniture at discounted prices towards or at the end of the summer season. Many people can obtain quality teak or cedar furniture to enhance their patios by watching the advertised sales from department and hardware stores. You can save yourself hundreds of dollars by just waiting a month or two for that special piece of patio furniture you have always wanted. You don''t have to buy the cheapest furniture just to be able to enjoy your patio.
There are disadvantages to buying discount patio furniture. Ensure the quality of the workmanship of the pieces you buy so that you are not buying junk furniture that will fall apart the first time anyone sits on it.
When shopping for discounted patio furniture, you should always look for chairs or benches made from solid wood. This kind of patio furniture is durable and well worth the money you pay. Solid wood patio furniture never goes out of style and matches any décor. Having wooden patio furniture, discounted or not, makes a statement about your patio without you saying a word.
It is also possible to buy discount patio furniture at moving sales. Many people get transferred in their jobs and cannot afford to take all their patio furniture with them, or they may simply not have the room for it at their new location. This is a great opportunity to get quality for less. People who are moving generally ask a minimal price for the furniture they want to sell, just to get it out of their way. When you buy discount patio furniture in this way, you can be sure to save lots of money.
The internet is a fiercely competitive battle ground that often pushes retailers to offer their goods at interesting prices. You can often find discount patio furniture at prices that even the end-of-season sales at your local store can''t beat. The thing to know here is to have a good idea of what you want before your start surfing. Just don''t sacrifice quality when making your decision and you shouldn''t have any problems. We have posted guides and tips on most kinds of furniture and accessories throughout our website. Take a look around, you will certainly find some useful tips in your quest for the best.
Whatever the method of getting discount patio furniture, it will be even more enjoyable because you know that it hasn''t stretched your budget. You may have to do a little more ground work, but the effort will be worth it!
Nicholas webb is the owner of http://www.allabout-patio-furniture.com A site that providing user-friendly patio furniture and patio accessories consumer tips and buying advice for the outdoor lover. Check it out before parting with your money.
', 170, 'Discount Patio Furniture ? An Easy Way to Get the Best, Landscaping-Gardening, Landscaping-Gardening articles, Landscaping-Gardening information, about Landscaping-Gardening, what is Landscaping-Gardening, Landscaping & Gardening Information', 'Discount Patio Furniture ? An Easy Way to Get the Best plus articles and information on Landscaping-Gardening
4:47 AM | | 0 Comments
Viburnum
Viburnums are related to the honeysuckles, so it should come as no surprise that many of them have fragrant flowers. But that''s not all they have in their favour. No, this genus includes plants for all seasons and all reasons; foliage, flower, autumn colour, scent, groundcover, shrub or small tree, evergreen or deciduous, it''s all there among the 120-odd species and the many hybrids and cultivars. Indeed, they''re so variable that it would be quite possible to have an interesting garden of viburnums alone.
Although viburnums can be found over much of the temperate northern hemisphere and even South America, most of the common plants in our gardens, with the exceptions of the Laurustinus (Viburnum tinus) and the Guelder Rose (Viburnum opulus), occur naturally in temperate Asia or are derived from the species of that area.
About the only drawback with viburnums is that because they are so adaptable and easy to grow, they seem to have suffered from the ''familiarity breeds contempt'' syndrome that sees common plants, however attractive and useful, relegated to the lower divisions of the garden league in favour of something more ''exciting''. Well, don''t fall into that trap - every garden needs at least one viburnum.
Foliage
While the obvious division in the genus is between the evergreen and deciduous types, it''s not quite that clear-cut. Some of the more popular plants are hybrids between evergreen and deciduous species and are semi-evergreen. This can actually be an advantage because they retain enough foliage to not look bare over winter while also developing vivid autumn tones in the leaves that fall. The very popular Viburnum × burkwoodii is the best example of this behaviour.
The foliage varies, but is in most cases a pointed elliptical shape and deeply veined. Some of the deciduous species, such as Viburnum opulus and Viburnum dentata, have lobed, somewhat maple-leaf-like foliage. Variegated foliage is not common, but where it does occur, the patterns and colours can be striking. The variegated form of Viburnum tinus is very popular.
Flowers
Viburnum flowers are nearly always white or pale pink, but within that limited colour range is found a huge variety of blooms. Although the individual flowers are small, they''re massed in heads that in some types are very large indeed. Most often the flowers are all fertile, but some species have hydrangea-like flower heads in which small clusters of fertile flowers are surrounded by large sterile ray florets. Cultivars have been raised with flowerheads entirely composed of sterile flowers. A sterile Guelder Rose (Viburnum opulus ''Roseum'' [syn. ''Sterile'']) in full flower often droops under the weight of its huge flower heads.
Although spring is the main flowering season, many of the most fragrant viburnums start to bloom in winter, or even late autumn. Because their flowers aren''t brightly coloured and insects are fewer in winter, they presumably use scent as a means to attract from a greater distance those pollinators that are around. Some, such as Viburnum × burkwoodii are rarely without a few flowers.
Fruit
In all cases, except for the sterile cultivars, the flowers are followed by berry-like drupes. While usually interestingly coloured, the drupes aren''t always show, though when they are, they can be a real feature. The steel-blue fruits of Viburnum davidii are very distinctive and the black drupes of Viburnum grandiflorum are particularly large, but my favourite is the so-called High-bush Cranberry (Viburnum trilobum), which covers itself with bright red fruit in late summer and autumn. It seems that just about any plant with showy red berries gets called a cranberry, but although the fruit is edible and can be used as a substitute for cranberry, it isn''t the real thing. For the record, the real cranberry, the one of jelly fame, is Vaccinium macrocarpon, a plant more closely related to rhododendrons than viburnums.
Cultivation
There isn''t much to say here; viburnums are easy. Except for all but a few in the very coldest of New Zealand gardens, hardiness isn''t a problem; they''re not fussy about soil type; most will grow perfectly well in sun or part shade and some will grow in very dark corners. Good drainage helps but they will tolerate soil that''s damp for a while.
Success with viburnums is not so much a matter of getting them to grow but directing and managing the growth they make. Although viburnums are plants with an in-built resistance to formal shaping, try to establish a good framework of main branches when the plants are young or they may develop into a mass tangled twigs rather than neat bushes.
As soon as possible after flowering, thin out any congested or weak stems and shorten back the main branches. There''s nothing complicated here, it''s just matter of letting more light and air into the centre of the bush and directing the plant''s energy into productive wood rather than spindly growth. If this is done for the first five years or so, you should have well-shaped, heavy flowering plants.
What''s available
There are many viburnums out there but garden centres tend to be rather uninspired in their selection, sticking pretty much to the tried and true. However, pester your local garden centre enough and they should be able to get hold of any of the following.
Viburnum bitchiuense
Found in southern Japan and Korea, this 3m tall deciduous shrub is beautiful in its own right while also being a parent of several attractive hybrids. It has large, strongly fragrant pink flowers that fade to white. They open in spring and are followed by black drupes.
Viburnum × bodnantense (Viburnum farreri × Viburnum grandiflorum)
A hybrid between two Chinese deciduous species, this 2.5m tall bush has rounded bright green leaves and small clusters of white flowers with a faint pink tint. The flowers are very fragrant and appear from late winter to early spring, very fragrant.
Viburnum × burkwoodii (Viburnum carlesii × Viburnum utile)
Viburnum carlesii is deciduous and Viburnum utile is evergreen, so in the spirit of compromise, their 3m tall offspring is semi-evergreen. Its rounded, bright green leaves have greyish undersides and in autumn those that fall develop intense yellow, orange and red tones before dropping. In mild areas the flowers open from late winter, elsewhere they appear in spring. They are white, opening from pink buds and are carried in ball-shaped clusters in spring. Their fragrance can scent the entirety of a small garden. Several cultivars are grown, of which the compact ''Anne Russell'' is probably the most popular.
Viburnum × carlcephalum (Viburnum carlesii × Viburnum macrocephalum forma keteleeri)
Sometimes called the Korean Spice Viburnum, this deciduous hybrid grows to around 2.5m tall and its flowers really do have a spicy fragrance. They open in spring, the first blooms being pink while the later flowers tend towards white-flushed-pink. The flower heads are up to 15cm across and complement the large, rather glossy leaves.
Viburnum carlesii
At first sight this native of Korea and Japan resembles the more common Viburnum × burkwoodii, which is not surprising as it one of that hybrid''s parents. However, it is fully deciduous and a more compact plant, rarely exceeding 1.8m tall. Its flowers, in ball-shaped clusters, pink in bud opening to white in spring, are very fragrant. There are quite a few cultivars of which ''Aurora'' (flowers in various shades of red pink and white) and ''Cayuga'' (orange autumn foliage) are the most popular. Others, such as the widely grown ''Chesapeake'' are hybrids with Viburnum utile.
Viburnum davidii
While capable of growing to 1.5m tall, this western Chinese evergreen species is more commonly seen as a mounding groundcover. It has bright mid green, glossy, heavily veined leathery leaves up to 15cm long that overlap to form a dense foliage cover. Small clusters of white flowers open from late winter to mid-spring and are followed by steel blue drupes.
Viburnum dentatum
Known as Arrowwood because of its use for that purpose by native Americans, this large deciduous shrub or small tree has rather unexciting greenish white flowers and is often rather an untidy grower. However, this eastern North American species comes into its own in autumn as the black drupes ripen and the foliage develops vivid red tones.
Viburnum erubescens
This early summer-flowering, deciduous or semi-evergreen shrub is native to the Himalayas and found in mountainous areas as far south as Sri Lanka. The flowers are white flushed with pale pink and are followed by red fruits that blacken when ripe.
Viburnum farreri
Although less common than the hybrids raised from it, this 3m tall, northern Chinese, deciduous species is well worth growing for its very fragrant pink-tinted white flowers that open from mid-winter. If pollinated the flowers develop into red fruit that blackens when ripe.
Viburnum japonica
Like V. davidii, this evergreen shrub is most often seen used as a large-scale groundcover, though it''s capable of growing well over 1m tall. A native of Japan, it has deep green, glossy leaves and bronze new growth. Loose clusters of white flowers in late spring are followed by red drupes. Regular trimming after flowering will keep it compact.
Viburnum lantana
The Wayfaring Tree, a species widespread in Eurasia, is a deciduous, sometimes tree-like shrub with heads of rather dull creamy-white flowers in spring. It is grown more for its fruit, which is red ageing to black, and its foliage. The leaves are attractive at all stages, starting out deep green and velvety, aging to dark green fine hairs coating their undersides, then developing gold and russet tones in autumn before falling.
Viburnum opulus
Found from Europe and North Africa to Central Asia, the Guelder Rose is a large deciduous shrub with mid green, deeply lobed, maple-like leaves that redden in autumn. Rounded heads of white flowers in spring are followed in late summer by red fruit. The bark contains a glucoside, viburnine, that has uses in herbal medicine, particularly in the control of spasms and cramps. ''Roseum'' (syn. ''Sterile'') is a cultivar with large heads of all-sterile flowers. It is known as the snowball tree because of the size and colour of its flowerheads and is far more widely grown than the species.
Viburnum plicatum
From China and Japan, this deciduous shrub grows to around 3m tall and has rounded, mid green, hazel-like leaves with serrated edges. Flattened clusters of white flowers in open in spring and may be followed by red fruit that blackens when ripe. The tiered branches are tiered make this species very distinctive and are a feature that is particularly apparent in the cultivar ''Mariesii''. ''Rosacea'' is a cultivar with bronze young foliage and pink-tinted, all-sterile flowers in large heads.
Viburnum rhytidophyllum
While this late spring- and summer-flowering Chinese species has reasonably attractive heads of creamy-white blooms, it''s really a foliage plant. The leaves are up to 20cm long and very heavily textured. The upper surfaces are slightly glossy and the undersurfaces are heavily coated in a grey to tan felt. ''Variegatum'' is a cultivar with gold-splashed foliage. If the flowers interest you, look for ''Roseum'', which has pinkish red blooms.
Viburnum tinus
Once one of the most popular hedging plants, though not so common now, the Laurustinus is a 3m tall, evergreen shrub from southern Europe and North Africa. It has leathery, bark olive green and in late winter and spring puts on a good display white flowers that often develop pink tints. Variegated foliage cultivars often have brighter pink flowers.
Viburnum trilobum
As described earlier, the High-bush Cranberry is a 2.5m tall, deciduous North American shrub. It has lobed, maple-like leaves that often turn bright red in autumn. Flat heads of white flowers open in spring and large clusters of very bright red berries in late summer to autumn. It is one of the best hardy shrubs for colour and quantity of fruit.
******
A little searching, especially through mail order catalogues, will yield quite a few more species, hybrids and cultivars. Or you could try propagating your own. The species may be raised from seed, which is usually best stratified, but hybrids and cultivars must be propagated vegetatively, most commonly by semi-ripe cuttings.
I am a garden book author and horticultural photographer based in Christchurch, New Zealand. I run a stock photo library called Country, Farm and Garden (http://www.cfgphoto.com). This article may be re-published provided this information is published with it and is clearly visible.', 170, 'Viburnum, Landscaping-Gardening, Landscaping-Gardening articles, Landscaping-Gardening information, about Landscaping-Gardening, what is Landscaping-Gardening, Landscaping & Gardening Information', 'Viburnum plus articles and information on Landscaping-Gardening
4:44 AM | | 0 Comments
The Protea Family (Proteaceae)
The protea family (Proteaceae) includes a wide range of ground covers, trees and shrubs that often make superb garden plants. While some of the species are frost-tender, they are in all other respects remarkably resilient plants that often thrive in situations where others would rapidly succumb. Poor soils and hot dry positions that scarcely seem capable of supporting life are often ideal for Proteaceae. If any plants could be said to thrive on neglect the proteas can.
Proteas (the term is often used collectively as well as for the genus itself) are a variable group. Indeed, the family was named after Proteus, a Greek god capable of changing his shape at will. It includes some 60 genera and 1400 species of Southern Hemisphere plants, the bulk of which are native to southern Africa and Australia with the remainder coming from South America and many of the Pacific islands, including two species (Knightia excelsa and Toronia toru) from New Zealand.
There is an enormous variety of foliage among the proteas. It is almost always evergreen, but may be needle-like, as with many grevilleas; long, narrow and serrated like that of Dryandra formosa; or rounded and leathery like the leaves of Protea cynaroides. Some genera, particularly Leucadendron, include species with brightly coloured foliage, the intensity of which varies with the season. Leucadendron stems retain their colour for weeks when cut and are an important part of the cut flower industry.
Protea flowers are composed of clusters of narrow tubes that are often curved. These ''spider'' flowers are seen at their simplest in the two native species and some of the grevilleas. In many cases what appears to be the flower is actually a bract of brightly coloured leaves surrounding the true flowers. The most impressive example of this is the dinner plate-sized flower head of Protea cynaroides. The flowering season also varies; many proteas and grevilleas flower in winter, while leucospermums tend to flower in summer. With careful selection it is possible to plants in flower all year round.
The flowers often contain large quantities of nectar that many birds relish. Some species have very sticky flowers that will trap visiting insects, especially bees an this slightly sinister side of the flower appears to serve no particular purpose.
The South African and Australian Proteaceae tend to be at their best in warm, dry conditions and often thrive in coastal areas. Inland, unseasonable early and late frosts often kill all but the hardiest specimens. The South American genera tend to be hardier and prefer somewhat damper conditions. Embothrium in particular, can withstand hard frosts and is grown over most of the country. But where winter temperatures regularly drop to -6°C or lower, most proteas require frost protection.
Cultivation
Other than a suitable climate, the key to success with proteas is establishing the right soil conditions. The protea family is mainly adapted to mineral based soils that drain very quickly and which often have low nutrient levels. These soils tend to be moderately acid and are often especially low in phosphates.
Good drainage is absolutely essential. Rich loams and heavy clays do not make good protea soils. If you have a heavy soil do not try to improve it by adding sand or shingle as this will often make the problem worse; the soil binds with the sand and shingle and sets like concrete. Instead add more humus. Proteas would not appreciate the rapid burst of nutrients from a rich compost so the humus used should be fairly low in nutrients. Natural leaf mould and rotted pine needles work well. To avoid these materials compacting down into a poor draining thatch, incorporate about 50% fine shingle grit by volume and combine the mix with the existing soil.
Most proteaceous plants come from areas with low rainfall or where the rains are strictly seasonal. Many are coastal plants although most of the South African genera include alpine or sub-alpine species. Knightia from New Zealand and Embothrium from Chile are exceptions; they usually occur away from the coast, in areas where rainfall is quite high and not seasonal. Nevertheless, they still demand excellent drainage.
Although proteas are remarkably resilient and not difficult to grow there seems to be some common myths regarding their cultivation. Like most myths these have some basis in fact, but they can be misleading.
Myth 1: feeding proteas will kill them.
That''s not strictly true. Proteas need nutrients just like any other plant, but their are a little more exacting than some. It''s not fertiliser that does the damage but high phosphate levels and intense bursts of nutrients that lead to overly rapid growth. Avoid most general garden fertilisers, fresh animal manures and anything with added superphosphate. Because proteas will tolerate poor soils, it is often easier not to feed them rather than risk damage, but you''ll certainly get better results if you apply a slow release, low phosphate fertiliser in late winter and mid summer. This will keep the plants growing slowly but steadily; any bolting into growth tends to weaken them.
Myth 2: proteas only grow near the coast.
Not true. Many proteaceous plants come from inland areas. They will tolerate salt breezes but there is no general preference for coastal conditions.
Myth 3: proteas like wind.
That''s also not entirely true. Proteaceous plants do not tolerate wet foliage or high humidity for long periods and in areas prone to these conditions extra ventilation will help reduce the incidence of fungal diseases. However, most proteas have brittle branches that snap or split in strong winds so there''s no reason to presume that they prefer windy locations.
Myth 4: proteas need a hot sunny position.
Yes, most Proteaceae prefer full sun or something near to it. But that doesn''t necessarily mean the hottest, most baked position you can find. Although they will survive severe conditions once established, extreme heat and drought will cause damage, especially to young plants. Shade from the hottest sun will prolong the flower display and, provided the drainage is good, occasional deep watering is also recommended.
Myth 5: proteas are short-lived.
Some are and some aren''t. Old plants are normally removed long before the end of their natural lives because they tend to become rather woody and untidy. You can generally reckon on a useful lifetime of at least 8 years for Leucadendron and Leucospermum, and around 12 years for Protea. However, large species, such as Grevillea robusta and Banksia integrifolia, may continue to be effective garden plants for several decades.
Planting
Most proteaceous plants are sold in containers and are ready to plant right away. However, the best planting time depends on your climate. Autumn or winter is best in mild areas as this is when moisture requirements are at their lowest, while spring is the preferred time if regular frosts are expected as this allows the young plants to get well established before having to endure winter conditions.
Start by digging a hole at least twice the size of the plant''s container, this large volume of loose soil will encourage good root development.. Additional drainage material can be added to the hole if necessary, otherwise planting is just a matter of removing the plant from its container, loosening any spiralling roots before placing in the hole, then refilling the hole and firming the plant into position. Large specimens will require staking to prevent wind damage.
Cut flower use
Many proteaceous plants make excellent long-lasting cut flowers. Leucadendrons in particular are widely planted solely for the purpose of providing material for floral decorations. Protea, Leucospermum, Banksia and Serruria flowers can all be used to make impressive large arrangements while the less dramatic blooms of Grevillea and Isopogon are better suited to more dainty work.
Some flowers, particularly goblet-shaped Protea flowers dry well although they do tend to disintegrate rather suddenly after a few months. Other genera such as Banksia and Leucadendron produce seed heads or cones that can be used in dried arrangements.
Pruning
Most proteaceous plants need occasional trimming and tidying. This may be to improve their growth habit or to remove old flowers or seed heads that have become dry and unsightly.
How far to cut back is the usual question. This varies with the genera, although as a rule only light pruning is recommended as there is a general reluctance among proteas to reshoot from bare wood. Of the common genera Banksia and Grevillea will withstand hard trimming, as will Leucadendron, Telopea and Mimetes, but pruning of Dryandra, Leucospermum, Serruria, Paranomus and most Protea species should be restricted to a light annual trimming.
The best time to prune is usually immediately after flowering unless you want to leave a few seed heads to mature for use as dried decorations. In areas where there is the possibility of frost damage, it is advisable to leave pruning autumn and winter-flowering plants until spring.
Container Growing
Some proteaceae can make good container plants, but you will have to be careful with your choice of potting mixes and fertilisers. Potting mixes need to be very free draining and often benefit from added coarse material such as shingle chips or pumice. Bark based mixes seem to work well but some growers feel they produce too much ethylene, which may harm the plants in the long run. Many commercial growers use soil based mixes and they generally prefer relatively poor and gritty volcanic soils.
Even plants with low nutrient demands will eventually exhaust their potting mix, so you will have to apply fertiliser occasionally. Use mild liquid fertilisers or special low-phosphate slow release pellets. Provided you are cautious the plants should respond well.
Propagation
Proteas can be frustratingly difficult plants to propagate. Fresh seed often germinates well only for the seedlings to collapse after a few weeks. This is usually due to a fungal disease that blackens the foliage and eventually kills the young seedlings. Regular fungicide applications are important. Prick out the young seedlings into a coarse, free draining, unfertilised potting mix once they have their first true leaves.
Cultivars and selected forms must be propagated vegetatively. The usual method is firm semi-ripe cuttings in late summer and autumn. The success rate varies markedly; some cultivars, such as Leucadendron ''Safari Sunset'', strike quite easily while many others may be virtually impossible without professional equipment.
Pests and Diseases
Grown under the right conditions proteaceous plants are relatively free of pests and diseases, or rather they''re not attacked by anything out of the ordinary. The most widespread problems are leaf roller caterpillars and scale insects, which can eventually lead to sooty mould.
When growing proteas from seed you will doubtless lose some to the fungal disease mentioned above. This disease, which appears to be a type of damping off, can sometimes also attack more mature plants. It appears to be far worse in excessively wet conditions or after long periods of high humidity. Good ventilation and avoidance of overcrowding are effective preventatives and regular spraying with fungicides may control the problem.
Common genera
Many of these plants are not widely available at garden centres, although specialist growers would consider them to be just the most common genera and are likely to stock others as well. All of the species and genera covered here are evergreen unless otherwise stated.
Aulax
This is a South African genus of small to medium sized shrubs. This genus and Leucadendron are the only dioecious (separate male and female plants) members of the Proteaceae. Seed of all three species, Aulax cancellata, Aulax pallasia and Aulax umbellata, is available but only Aulax cancellata is commonly planted. It grows to 1.5-2m × 1m and has fine needle-like leaves. In spring, female plants produce red edged yellow flowers that develop into red seed cones. The catkin-like male flowers are yellow, as are those of Aulax pallasia and Aulax umbellata, the female flowers of which are not very showy. Aulax pallasia grows to about 3 m and Aulax umbellata about 1.5m. All are hardy to about -5°C and are usually raised from seed.
Banksia
An Australian genus of about 60 species, ranging in size from ground covers to medium-sized trees. The flowering season is primarily from late winter to late spring and most species have cylindrical cone-like flower heads composed of densely packed filamentous styles radiating from a central core. Creamy yellow to light golden-yellow is the predominant colour range, although a few species, such as Banksia ericifolia and Banksia praemorsa, have golden-orange flowers and those of Banksia coccinea are red. Most species have narrow serrated leaves that are mid to deep green above and silvery grey on the undersides but Banksia ericifolia has fine needle-like leaves. Leaf size varies from very small up to the 50cm long leaves of Banksia grandis. Hardiness varies with the species, some are quite frost tender but some will tolerate -10°C.
Relatively few are seen in nurseries but the seed of most species can be obtained from Australia. Banksia ericifolia and Banksia integrifolia are the most widely grown and are also the hardiest of the common species, both withstanding -10°C once well established. There are hardly any cultivars or selected forms of Banksia in cultivation. Species may be raised from seed and most will also strike quite freely from semi-ripe cuttings.
Dryandra
An Australian genus of around 60 species of shrubs ranging in height from about 1-4 m. Most have narrow, mid to deep green leaves that are often very long and narrow with sharply toothed edges. The rounded flower heads, which appear from mid winter, are usually light to bright yellow. The most common species is Dryandra formosa, which grows to about 3m and is hardy to around -5°C once established (most of the other species are less hardy). Dryandras are superb long-lasting cut flowers and some will also dry well. They will grow on extremely poor soil and generally react badly to most fertilisers. Raise from seed or semi-ripe cuttings, which are often difficult to strike.
Embothrium
The Chilean Fire Bush (Embothrium coccineum) is a small tree around 5m × 2.5m. It has 100mm long, leathery, bright green leaves that may become somewhat sparse on older plants. In mid to late spring the tree turns vivid orange-red as the honeysuckle-like tubular flowers open - the flowering season is brief but spectacular. Two forms are grown: ''Longifolium'' and ''Lanceolatum''; ''Longifolium'' is the more common cultivar. It is a vigorous upright plant that is quite drought tolerant and hardy to about -10°C. ''Lanceolatum'' is a stockier grower with narrow leaves. It demands more moisture but withstands harder frosts, up to -15°C with some protection. However, in very cold winters it may lose up to two thirds of its foliage. Overall Embothrium requires more moisture than most Proteaceae but good drainage is still important. It may be grown from seed but is usually propagated by semi-ripe cuttings.
Grevillea
With some 250 species, this is the largest of the Australian proteaceous genera. Most of the common garden species and cultivars are ground covers to medium-sized shrubs (up to 3m) with needle-like foliage. However, some species are far larger. The silky oak (Grevillea robusta), which is often seen in mild area, can grow to 20m and in common with most of the larger species it has large pinnate leaves. Grevillea banksii has similar foliage but only grows to about 3.5m × 3m.
The more densely foliaged plants, especially Grevillea juniperina and Grevillea rosmarinifolia, are often used as hedging plants. These plants grow to at least 1.5m high.
Grevillea flowers are often describe as ''spider flowers''. This refers to the styles of some species, which tend to radiate from the centre like a spider''s legs. Some species have ''toothbrush'' flowers; the styles are all on one side like the bristles of a toothbrush. The best known example of this type of flower is the common red-flowered cultivar ''Robin Hood''.
Many Grevillea cultivars are cultivated and they generally adapt well to garden conditions. Among the more popular are ''Jenkinsii'' (a heavy flowering form of the red-flowered Grevillea rosmarinifolia), ''Robyn Gordon'' (orange-red to red toothbrush flowers) ×gaudichaudii (deep red), ''Austraflora Canterbury Gold'' (light golden yellow) and many of the Poorinda cultivars. Grevilleas are among the more widely available proteaceous plants and most nurseries stock a good selection.
The species and hybrids vary enormously in hardiness. Some will stand little or no frost but others, such as Grevillea rosmarinifolia, will tolerate frosts of -10°C or lower; all prefer full sun with good drainage. The species are easily raised from seed and most hybrids strike quite freely from semi-ripe cuttings taken in late summer or autumn.
Hakea
This Australian genus includes about 130 species, few of which are widely cultivated. The most common is probably Hakea laurina, the Pincushion Hakea. When not in flower, this species could easily be mistaken for a small eucalyptus. It has bluish-green narrow, oblong to sickle-shaped leaves and reddish-brown bark. It grows to about 6m × 4m and mature trees have a slightly weeping habit. The name pincushion refers to the flowers, which are spherical, with numerous radiating styles. They appear in late autumn and early winter, opening cream and turning to orange and red as they age. This shrub is hardy to about -5°C once well established and is easily grown in most well-drained soils.
Of the other species, the most common are Hakea salicifolia, Hakea prostrata and Hakea sericea. They are hardy to about -8°C or slightly lower and are easily grown in most soils. Hakea salicifolia has narrow, willow-like leaves, spidery, white flowers that are produced in spring. It grows up to 5m high and will tolerate poor drainage. Hakea prostrata and Hakea sericea have fine needle-like leaves and white or pale pink flowers in winter and early spring. It grows to about 3m × 2m. All member of this genus are usually raised from seed but some can be grown from cuttings. A few, such as H. franciscana, are weak growers that often perform better when grafted onto more vigorous stocks, such as Hakea salicifolia.
Isopogon
Drumsticks, which refers to the shape of the flower stems and unopened buds, is a name often used for Isopogon anemonifolius but it can also be applied to the genus as a whole. It is an Australian genus of 34 species of small to medium sized shrubs, most of which grow from 1-2m high and about as wide. They have a preference for poor but well-drained soil and will quickly collapse if over-watered or overfed. Most species have narrow lanceolate leaves about 75mm long and some, such as the common Isopogon anemonifolius, have finely cut foliage reminiscent of Marguerite daisy or Anemone leaves.
The flower heads, which open in spring and early summer, are composed of a central cone from which radiate numerous styles. Some species have short stiff styles but in others they are long and filamentous. The flower colours are mainly white, yellow or pink. The two most widely grown species, Isopogon anemonifolius and Isopogon anethifolius are hardy to about -5°C, but many species, such as Isopogon cuneatus and the temptingly beautiful pink and yellow-flowered Isopogon latifolius, are damaged at temperatures below -2°C. Isopogon species are usually raised from seed.
Knightia
The Rewa Rewa or New Zealand Honeysuckle (Knightia excelsa) is the best known of the two New Zealand proteaceous species. In the wild it can grow to be a tall narrow tree up to 25m high and it is one of the few proteaceous plants to have been harvested for its timber, which is very attractively marked. In gardens it is more restrained and seldom exceeds 8m × 3.5m. Rewa rewa has semi-glossy, deep green to bronze-green, narrow, lanceolate to oblong leaves that are very tough and leathery. In summer it produces tubular honeysuckle-like flowers that develop from buds covered in a reddish brown tomentum. As the flowers open the tomentum covered sepals and the petals curl back to form a congested mass in the centre of the flower head. The flowers, which can smell unpleasant, are followed by conspicuous brown, velvety seed pods. Rewa Rewa is easily grown in moist well-drained soil in sun or partial shade and is hardy to about -5°C or slightly lower once established. It may be grown in any coastal area if protected when young. New Zealand honeysuckle is usually raised from seed and garden centres often stock ready-grown plants.
Leucadendron
Species of this genus are the most widely grown of the South African Proteaceae and many are valued for the long-lasting qualities of their flower bracts once cut. Most are medium-sized shrubs around 1-2.5m high. However, one of the best known species, the silver tree (Leucadendron argenteum), can grow to 10m high and the less widely grown Leucadendron eucalyptifolium may reach 5m.
Many species and cultivars are grown, but probably the most widely planted is ''Safari Sunset''. It is a hybrid between Leucadendron laureolum and Leucadendron salignum and is fairly typical of the genus. It has narrow, lanceolate leaves that are up to 100mm long. Some species, such as L. argenteum, have tomentose foliage but ''Safari Sunset'' does not. The upward-facing foliage densely covers the narrow, upright branches and develops deep red tints at the flowering tips. Deep red leaf bracts enclose the flower cones. As the insignificant flowers near maturity, the bracts become intensely coloured. ''Safari Sunset'' has red bracts but others develop cream, yellow, pink or orange tones. ''Wilson''s Wonder'' (yellow and orange-red), ''Maui Sunset'' (cream, yellow and red) and ''Rewa Gold'' (yellow) are among the most spectacular. Leucadendrons generally develop their best colours from mid to late winter but ''Jester'' a pink, cream and green variegated sport of ''Safari Sunset'' is brightly coloured throughout the year.
The species and hybrids vary considerably in hardiness but most will tolerate frosts of at least -3°C provided they have good drainage and the humidity is not excessive. ''Safari Sunset'' is hardy to about -8°C and most of the numerous Leucadendron salignum and Leucadendron laureolum hybrids are nearly as hardy. In the North Island leucadendrons generally thrive in all but the coldest central areas and they can be grown with varying degrees of success in all coastal areas of the South Island.
Leucadendrons can be tricky to propagate. Reasonably firm cuttings taken in early autumn are usually the easiest to strike but gardeners without specialised propagating facilities may experience problems and although seed germinates well, it is inclined to damp off. Garden centres often stock a good range of plants.
Leucospermum
A South African genus of about 50 species, most of which are medium to large shrubs that grow to about 1.5-3m high. Some, such as Leucospermum reflexum, have strongly upright growth habits but most, including the commonly cultivated species, Leucospermum cordifolium, are dense and bushy. Both of these species have tomentose greyish-green leaves that are usually broadly oval shaped, often with small red-tipped lobes. The leaves of Leucospermum reflexum are narrower and greyer than those of Leucospermum cordifolium. Leucospermum reflexum can grow to 3m × 3m but Leucospermum cordifolium is usually around 1.5m × 1.5m.
The flowers are variously described as Catherine wheels, pincushions and sky rockets, all of which refer to the numerous radiating styles. These are often incurved, creating a cupped effect. The flower heads of Leucospermum cordifolium are quite globular while those of Leucospermum reflexum have drooping styles at the base of the flower. The flowers usually appear in late spring and continue for about two months. They are attractive when fresh but often become unsightly once they die off.
Most garden leucospermums are cultivars of Leucospermum cordifolium and are hardy to occasional frosts of about -5°C, but they resent wet or humid winter conditions, which can often lead to tip die back. Good drainage is also very important. Cuttings taken in early autumn are the most likely to strike but without proper equipment they may prove difficult and seed often germinates well only to be killed by fungal diseases. Gritty well-drained soil, regular fungicide use and just enough water to keep the seedlings standing up are the keys to success. The orange-flowered ''Harry Chittick'' is the plant most commonly stocked by nurseries and it is one that performs very well.
Mimetes
This South African genus includes 11 species, only one of which is widely grown. Mimetes cucullatus has 40mm long oblong leaves with small lobes at the tips, that densely cover the branches like upward facing scales. The small white flowers are enclosed within leaf bracts that change colour to a bright red as the flower buds mature. Mimetes may flower throughout the year but is usually at its best in late spring when the new growth appears, as this is also red. Mimetes cucullatus grows to about 1.5m × 1.5m and is hardy to around -3°C. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and is not very drought tolerant. This species is usually raised from seed.
Paranomus
The most common species of this 18-species genus, Paranomus reflexus, is an undemanding 1.5m × 1.8m bush with bright yellow bottle-brush-like flower heads in winter and spring. The foliage is anemone-like and very finely cut; the flower stems have small diamond shaped leaves just below the flower heads. It is easily grown in any well-drained soil in full sun. Although the plant is hardy to about -5°C, the flowers are damaged by frosts over -2°C. It is usually raised from seed.
Persoonia
An Australian genus of around 75 species of shrubs, mostly under 2 m tall and some quite small. Known as geebungs, by far the best-known species is the Pine-leaf Geebung (Persoonia pinifolia), an eastern Australian native that is one of the larger species, capable of reaching 3 m tall. It has a weeping habit, fine needle-like leaves and small yellow flowers. Most geebungs will tolerate about 2 to 5°C of frost.
Protea
Protea is a genus of about 80 species that is confined to southern Africa and concentrated around the Cape of Good Hope. The species range in size from less than 50cm high to over 4m. Most commonly grown proteas are small to medium sized shrubs in the 1-2.5m high range.
The best known species is Protea neriifolia. It has narrow leaves up to 150mm long that are covered with a fine tomentum when young. In autumn, winter and spring, upright, 125mm long × 75mm wide goblet-shaped flowers are carried at the tips of the branches. They are composed of a woolly central cone surrounded by overlapping, upward-facing, petal-like, deep reddish-pink bracts tipped with a fringe of black hairs. Many forms with varying colours of bract and tip hairs are grown. Several other species, such as Protea magnifica and Protea laurifolia, have similar flowers.
The central cone, often with many incurving styles, is common to all Protea species but the arrangement of the bracts varies. Many have them arranged in a stellate or star-shaped fashion. The King Protea (Protea cynaroides) is the best known of this type. Its flowers can be up to 300mm in diameter. The flowers of the king protea face upwards but others, such as greenish-yellow-flowered Protea sulphurea, have downward facing flowers.
The foliage is also variable. It may be needle-like, as in Protea nana, lanceolate, oblong or rounded. It can be silvery grey, glaucous or bright green depending on the species and it may or may not be tomentose.
Likewise, hardiness varies considerably. Most species will tolerate at least -3°C with good drainage and low humidity but many are considerably tougher. Protea neriifolia will withstand -5°C and Protea grandiceps will often survive -10°C when well established. Proteas do well over most of the North Island and many species can be grown as far south as Christchurch with a little winter protection.
Protea species are often raised from seed, which germinates well, but the seedlings may be difficult to keep alive. Hybrids and cultivars must be propagated vegetatively. The usual method is firm semi-ripe cuttings taken in late summer and autumn. Specialist growers stock many species and cultivars while garden centres seldom have anything other than the most common plants.
Serruria
Blushing Bride (Serruria florida) is very popular with florists because its Nigella-like papery white bracts are very delicate and last well as cut flowers. The bracts, which are surrounded with finely cut lacy leaves, are produced freely in winter and spring. Blushing Bride can be difficult to grow, because not only is it frost tender (it tolerates only occasional exposure to -2°C), it must also have full sun and absolutely perfect drainage. It is one of a genus of 44 species from South Africa, of which the only other species commonly grown is Serruria rosea. It is a densely foliaged 70cm × 90cm bush with small pink bracts and is slightly hardier and definitely easier to grow than Serruria florida. Serruria species should be raised from seed.
Stenocarpus
The Queensland Firewheel Tree (Stenocarpus sinuata) is a large tree (12m × 8m) that produces a magnificent display of orange to red flowers in summer. It has large, glossy, dark green leaves that are deeply lobed. The flowers are tubular and are carried in flattened clusters that radiate spoke-like from a central hub, hence the name firewheel tree. It is hardy to about -4°C once well established but is very tender when young and does best in moist well-drained soil in full sun. Stenocarpus salignus is a species with long, narrow leaves and cream flowers. It is smaller and hardier than Stenocarpus sinuata. Stenocarpus is usually raised from seed.
Telopea
Natives of Australia, the waratah genus includes just four species. The New South Wales waratah (Telopea speciosissima), which is the one most commonly grown has oblong, finely serrated leaves that are up to 125mm long with small notches or lobes at the tips. It develops into a large shrub or small tree up to 5m × 5m. The flowers, which are produced in spring and carried at the tips of the branches, are impressively large, bright red, and composed of numerous incurving styles surrounded by red foliage bracts. Several cultivars, such as the semi-dwarf ''Forest Fire'' (2m × 2m) are reasonably commonly available. The ''Victorian Waratah'' (Telopea oreades) is a similar plant with slightly lighter coloured leaves and flowers. Both of these species and the cultivars are hardy to around -8°C.
Waratahs prefer moist well-drained soil in full sun and once established they require little care. But many die during the initial establishment period. This is possibly due to essential mycorrhiza failing to establish. These minute fungi form a symbiotic relationship with the plants'' roots and are vital in the uptake of nutrients. It has been suggested that taking soil from around an established waratah and putting it around new plants may help lessen these establishment difficulties. Waratahs may be raised from seed or semi-ripe cuttings but they are difficult to raise. Some success has been achieved with tissue culture and this is how some of the new cultivars are produced.
Toronia
The sole species in this genus is the lesser known of the two New Zealand proteaceous species. Formerly listed as Persoonia toru, it is now known as Toronia toru. A small bushy tree that can grow to about 9m × 5m, it is usually far smaller in gardens. The narrow, lanceolate olive green to bronze leaves are about 100mm long but may grow to over 150mm on mature trees in sheltered sites. The buff coloured starry flowers, which appear in late winter and early spring, are carried in racemes and develop from golden brown felted buds. It is easily grown in any moist well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade and is hardy to about -8°C once established. Toronia toru is a relatively unspectacular plant but its flowers are pleasantly honey-scented and it is interesting because it is one of our more unusual natives. This species may be grown from cuttings, but as they are usually difficult to strike, seed is the preferred method.
I am a garden book author and horticultural photographer based in Christchurch, New Zealand. I run a stock photo library called Country, Farm and Garden (http://www.cfgphoto.com). This article may be re-published provided this information is published with it and is clearly visible.', 170, 'The Protea Family (Proteaceae), Landscaping-Gardening, Landscaping-Gardening articles, Landscaping-Gardening information, about Landscaping-Gardening, what is Landscaping-Gardening, Landscaping & Gardening Information', 'The Protea Family (Proteaceae) plus articles and information on Landscaping-Gardening
4:42 AM | | 0 Comments
Baking Soda for Cleaning
Baking soda is a common, inexpensive household item that can be used for many kinds of cleaning projects. In an era when we are all exposed to many toxic chemicals, it''s nice to know that something so mild can be effective. We actually make a form of baking soda in our own saliva, where it helps keep plaque from forming!
Here are some of the uses of baking soda for cleaning:
I''ve long used baking soda and white vinegar to keep my kitchen and bathroom drains clear and fresh smelling. I just put a teaspoon or less of baking soda into the drain and then pour in about a tablespoon of vinegar. I must admit that I am the kind of cook who rarely measures anything, and the same is true for these proportions, so feel free to experiment to find what works best in your sinks. Start small, though -- the combination of baking soda and vinegar causes an active fizzling and bubbling!
In fact, that bubbling process is how you can tell if the box of baking soda you''ve had around forever is still good. Just follow the directions above. Your soda is still good if it bubbles away merrily.
Speaking of drains, if your drain is clogged, you can try using a lot more baking soda. One recipe is to pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, then a cup of vinegar. Wait a few minutes, or longer, and then run the hot water tap and see if you have cleared the drain. It could take overnight.
Another well-known use of baking soda is to keep an open box in the refrigerator to neutralize odors. Because baking soda cuts smells, it can also be put in the bottom tray of an oven-type electric toaster, to reduce burnt smells. Another smell-removing cleaning tip is to put baking soda into bottles or jars that milk has left a smell in.
Baking soda is an abrasive, milder than commercial cleansers. For scrubbing out the sink, bathtub, or shower stall, for getting gunk off the outside of my toaster, and projects of that sort, I find it very useful. Using a rag or sponge, pour some baking soda onto it and then add a little water, just enough to form a paste. Then scrub! You can also mix up the paste in a small cup or bowl and then throw out what you haven''t used by the end of that cleaning session. I keep a small container of baking soda handy by the sink, in a closed jar so that the baking soda doesn''t cake. You can also use a salt shaker, as you will probably go through that much baking soda before it gets caked up.
Pots and pans that have something burned on the bottom call for sterner measures. I admit that sometimes I just reach for my rarely-used commercial cleanser, but the baking soda cleaning method is to shake baking soda all over the burned stuff and then let the pot sit overnight. You can also add a little water and baking soda to the pot, bring it to a boil, and then let it sit.
For stained marble, a paste of baking soda and white vinegar can be effective. For washing windows, put some baking soda on a wet rag or sponge.
Baking soda also has a variety of uses in keeping your body clean too. But enough! This article is about baking soda for cleaning around the house.
Rosana Hart has been using baking soda in cleaning houses for years. She tells you more about cleaning houses and offices, and how to do it for a living, at her website, http://infoandhelp.com.', 160, 'Baking Soda for Cleaning, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Baking Soda for Cleaning plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
9:47 AM | | 0 Comments
Cleaning House and the 80-20 Rule
Cleaning house is one of those things that needs doing again... and again... and again! How can you make it less of a burden?
When I taught time management classes, one of the things I loved to teach was the 80-20 rule. It''s best explained by examples. Eighty percent of the time, you wear twenty percent of your wardrobe. Eighty percent of the phone calls you get come from twenty percent of your friends. Eighty percent of the dirt is on twenty percent of the floor. Twenty percent of salespeople make eighty percent of sales. Okay, sometimes it''s 90-10 and sometimes it''s 70-30 but you get the idea.
Eighty percent of the dirt is on twenty percent of the floor? Hmm, what does that suggest about cleaning your house? Often a quick pass through the parts of your house that really need it will make cleaning house much easier. If you are in a hurry, let the dust behind the sofa and under the table alone and just clean a swath through the heavy traffic areas. Sooner or later, you''ll get to them as well -- or hire someone else to do a thorough cleaning occasionally.
You can probably make up lots of examples of the 80-20 rule that apply to your own ways of cleaning house and of keeping things picked up. Perhaps eighty percent of the dirty dishes left lying around come from one person. Perhaps eighty percent of your frustration with how your house looks could be solved by doing twenty percent of what you think you should.
Rosana Hart tries to put eighty percent of her work time into the twenty percent of activities that will be most effective. She tells you about the opportunities for cleaning houses and offices for a living at her website, http://infoandhelp.com. There are also more tips there for cleaning houses (your own or anyone''s).', 160, 'Cleaning House and the 80-20 Rule, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Cleaning House and the 80-20 Rule plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
9:46 AM | | 0 Comments
Cleaning House and the 80-20 Rule
Cleaning house is one of those things that needs doing again... and again... and again! How can you make it less of a burden?
When I taught time management classes, one of the things I loved to teach was the 80-20 rule. It''s best explained by examples. Eighty percent of the time, you wear twenty percent of your wardrobe. Eighty percent of the phone calls you get come from twenty percent of your friends. Eighty percent of the dirt is on twenty percent of the floor. Twenty percent of salespeople make eighty percent of sales. Okay, sometimes it''s 90-10 and sometimes it''s 70-30 but you get the idea.
Eighty percent of the dirt is on twenty percent of the floor? Hmm, what does that suggest about cleaning your house? Often a quick pass through the parts of your house that really need it will make cleaning house much easier. If you are in a hurry, let the dust behind the sofa and under the table alone and just clean a swath through the heavy traffic areas. Sooner or later, you''ll get to them as well -- or hire someone else to do a thorough cleaning occasionally.
You can probably make up lots of examples of the 80-20 rule that apply to your own ways of cleaning house and of keeping things picked up. Perhaps eighty percent of the dirty dishes left lying around come from one person. Perhaps eighty percent of your frustration with how your house looks could be solved by doing twenty percent of what you think you should.
Rosana Hart tries to put eighty percent of her work time into the twenty percent of activities that will be most effective. She tells you about the opportunities for cleaning houses and offices for a living at her website, http://infoandhelp.com. There are also more tips there for cleaning houses (your own or anyone''s).', 160, 'Cleaning House and the 80-20 Rule, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Cleaning House and the 80-20 Rule plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
9:45 AM | | 0 Comments
Hot Tub Heaven
What will your next home improvement project be? Will it be an inground pool or how about a new deck? Why not consider a hot tub for the new deck? A hot tub is great for relaxing year round. There are lots of things to consider when shopping for your first hot tub. The first thing to look at is the shell. Traditional hot tubs were made of wood but most now are acrylic or vinyl. You can find smooth or glassy surfaces, or some that resemble a stone finish. If you have a specific outdoor décor in mind it won''t be hard for you to find a hot tub that matches beautifully. What size do you want? Models traditionally seat five to six adults, but you can find some that are just for two or as many as ten. You''d definitely be ready for a party with that size of hot tub. If party time is important, you might want the seating to be more of a bench style than a bucket. You''ll be able to accommodate more people that way. The skirt or cabinet is also a big part of the picture. This encloses all of the ugly plumbing and equipment. Look for a simulated wood grain so you have little maintenance and they will look good for years. Order your hot tub with matching cabinet so it is a nice blended look.
The biggest reason you get a hot tub in the first place comes from the jets. That bubbling foamy water is so relaxing after a tough day. Hydrotherapy is a great way to rejuvenate the old bones of the baby boomer too. Today the jets are made for therapy and relaxation together. Know how you want to use the tub and that will tell you where you want the jets placed. If you don''t want the action at the lower back you want to know that up front before you buy. There are special jets such as neck jets, stationary jets, cluster jets, rotating jets and hand held jets. You can get a combination of the above and have a water experience like none other. Work closely with the dealer to get the proper size of pump. Bigger is not better. Make sure it is sized correctly for the size of hot tub and it won''t cause strain on your plumbing. One of the most important pieces of equipment is the heater. Sitting in cold water isn''t fun. If you have the water properly balanced to the correct ph, it will be less corrosive to the parts and pump. You also need filters to screen out particles and keep the water crystal clear. Here again, size is important that the filters are sized for the size of tub you own. Ask the dealer if you are unsure what to buy. Testing the water need to be done on a regular basis to ensure a clean bacteria free hot tub.
I can feel really lazy when lying in the hot tub so I want a remote control for my systems. You can set up computer systems that monitor the tub from the living room, or turn them on and off from there. You can even install programs that will allow you to turn on the hot tub from a cell phone. You could be miles away and a phone call starts the water warming. Your utility bill will reflect how much you use the tub and how hot you keep the water and what size you own. If your hot tub is well insulated, you will save as much money as you can on utilities. Use a hot tub cover with a tight seal to keep out debris and also for insulation. Don''t let your imagination stop when you are buying a hot tub. What about purchasing some of the many options such as LED underwater lights that change colors? Talk about a mood enhancer! Build in CD/stereo speakers that are waterproof. Add cup holders, aromatherapy jets, fiber optic landscape lighting, and a water fall or mister and you will never get rid of the neighbors. Did I forget to mention the built in television screen? Super Bowl here we come! You might decide you want the hot tub to be enclosed in a gazebo. They offer a lot of privacy which is what you might want because of nosy neighbors. A hot tub is a big investment and you want to make sure your family will enjoy it. If you do a test run at the dealers, this will enable you to answer some of those questions in your mind. Do you feel comfortable sitting in a particular style of tub? Does a tub for five feel too small to you? You want to be able to enjoy the tub and not wish you had installed something different. Let your imagination run wild, but also keep in mind your monthly bills to maintain the tub when you are looking at the budget.
Beverly Hlavka is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying hot tubs, pool supplies, pool heaters, above ground pools and more. Her many articles can be found at http://www.sauna-4u.com/hot_tubs.htm She also gives information and tips http://www.sauna-4u.com/index.htm on to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.', 160, 'Hot Tub Heaven, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Hot Tub Heaven plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
9:44 AM | | 0 Comments
A Fabric Hammock is Comfortable Casual Chic
If you are looking for unique seating inside or out, why not consider a hammock? What comes to mind when you picture a hammock? Do you see yourself on the islands? Are you swaying in the breeze while watching the kids play in the pool? Are you watching the stars at night on your hammock for two? You can be on vacation year round when you add a hammock to a room or patio. You instantly create a casual chic or sophisticated hand designed elegance. There are fabric styles such as the beautiful Brazilian hammock that are elegant yet have the aura of pure everyday relaxation.
They''re inviting aren''t they? They almost call to us when we see them. Fabric hammocks conform to the body and are quite comfortable. Many people all over the world still sleep in hammocks. You don''t feel like you need a liner or body pillow in the fabric hammock. However, they also don''t offer the ventilation you get from a rope hammock. There are a wide array of colors and patterns available and some come with an earthy ethnic fringe detail. The workmanship on these hammocks is quite exquisite and would be a nice addition to any backyard or family room. Try one in the master suite. They come large enough for two. Place it where you have the best view. You might overlook the pool, or out to the backyard. If you live on a lake, you want to be able to relax and lounge indoors as well as outside.
You might look for a hammock stand that will enable you to easily place the hammock where you wish. Trees are the holder of choice outdoors, but you can have a stand outside too. If you own a pool, put it right next to the pool so you won''t miss a moment of the kids having fun. They will have fun splashing you too. If you opt for the pool hammock you might want to consider a vinyl coated material. This is more suited for the elements, yet you won''t feel quite as cool on the vinyl coated polyester material. Since they are coated, recline immediately exiting the pool. It doesn''t matter if you''re wet, just dry off swaying in the breeze. I currently own a rope style hammock that is by the lake, but I long for just the right style to put indoors. Cotton would be nice, but outdoors the fabric can fade and the water will eventually wear down the fiber. Quilted hammocks are water resistant and usually have a pattern on one side. There are many color schemes available and also many price points.
Consider weight when you actually hang the hammock on trees. Your weight will obviously bring it down and you could find yourself stuck on the ground if you have the ends too close together. If you don''t have appropriate distances of trees, a hammock stand would be the answer. If you feel like you are taking your life into your hands every time you climb into a hammock, there are some easy tips to keep in mind for smooth sailing or "swaying". Just stay balanced.
The best way to approach the hammock is to pull it underneath you and gently sit down in the middle. Don''t make sudden moves, or collapse onto it. Just hang on to the side of it with one hand and slowly move your legs on to the fabric. Your own weight will help make you stabilized so the hammock won''t swing out from under you. Once you are there you will feel like a cocooned bug in a rug. You might also want to try lying in the hammock at a diagonal angle instead of straight. You will feel like you are floating on a cloud when you do this and also a little more stabilized. Don''t sit on the edge as it will probably flip over and hit you on the top of the head. Children shouldn''t climb in feet first either. If you have a rope hammock, their little feet will to through and get all tangled up. Slow and easy is the way to go. Once you have mastered the art of the hammock, you won''t want to sit in other chairs. You will all be fighting over who get to relax on the most comfortable piece of furniture you own.
Bev Hlavka is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying patio furniture, gas grills, picnic tables and more. Her many articles can be found at http://www.patio-furniture-4u.com/Hammocks.htm. She gives information and tips at http://www.patio-furniture-4u.com to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.', 160, 'A Fabric Hammock is Comfortable Casual Chic, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'A Fabric Hammock is Comfortable Casual Chic plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:41 AM | | 0 Comments
Feng Shui, Design Psychology and Bed Placement
I love Feng Shui! Whether you believe this ancient Asian design method is based on ancient wisdom or superstition, Feng Shui includes some valuable principles and is simply fun! Consider these Feng Shui rules:
- Don''t sleep with your feet facing the bedroom door.
- Place head of bed so that you can see the doorway.
- Don''t sleep next to the wall that has the meter box on it.
- Don''t place head of bed next to a bathroom wall.
So where do my husband and I put our bed according to these rules? In our bedroom with four walls, one wall is all closets, one wall backs up to the bathroom, one wall is all doors opening to the garden, and the last one (oh my!) has the meter box on it! Not to worry, Feng Shui has all kinds of rules to fix any problem, including using crystals and houseplants to counteract negative energy.
Design Psychology, based on years of scientific research, comes to some of the same conclusions that Feng Shui practitioners, based on years of experience, utilize. But Design Psychology boldly contradicts the Feng Shui rule that you can''t sleep with your feet facing the bedroom door.
Design Psychology creates rooms to support happiness and well-being. The bedroom, a personal space for refreshment and enjoyment, requires attention to details like the bed placement for comfort. As the main attraction, the bed is usually the focal point of the room. Therefore, position the headboard directly opposite the doorway up against a wall. This creates the visual expansion of the room and underscores the bed''s importance. A greater reason to place the bed so that it faces the doorway is for a feeling of security. People feel safe when they can easily see the door.
The bed represents the beginning and ending of life. In the past, people were conceived, born, and they died in the same bed. You spend more time in your bed than in any other piece of furniture. So, follow Feng Shui rules or Design Psychology principles and place your bed with the head facing the entrance of the room. Not only will this spot reinforce the bed''s significance in your design plan, you will feel comfortable and sleep well!
(c) Copyright 2005 Jeanette J. Fisher. All rights reserved.
Jeanette Fisher, Design Psychology Professor, is the author of "Doghouse to Dollhouse for Dollars: Using Design Psychology to Increase Real Estate Profits" and other books. Sign up to her "Joy to the Home" ezine at http://www.joytothehome.com/.
Explore Design Psychology at http://www.designpsych.com/.', 160, 'Feng Shui, Design Psychology and Bed Placement, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Feng Shui, Design Psychology and Bed Placement plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:40 AM | | 0 Comments
Interior Design For New Homes
When decorating or making decorating decisions for new homes, it is important to remember that your major decisions could affect decorating choices for quite a long period of time. Commitment to bold or unusual color treatments before you have actually had the opportunity to consider how such changes will coordinate with your furniture placement is not very advisable in this type of situation. In any case, the best advice you could receive while planning interior design for new homes is to make mediocre, undramatic design choices to begin that you can alter at a later time if you choose to do so.
This may seem like very unusual advice concerning interior design for new homes especially coming from someone who is working within the design industry-but there is good explanation for this reasoning. A large, open space without viewing or visualizing any furniture content within that space is quite easy to get a little carried away with while making structural changes. Also, keep in mind that by using very bold or dramatic designer interior colors on the walls you might be closing off your future alternative color choices to those that will cover the bright color therefore eliminating any possibility of using neutral colors without major restructuring of wall surfaces.
Wallpaper is another such choice that you might reconsider using while building interior design for new homes. Again, removing wallpaper and resurfacing the surface is often times quite a headache that can be avoided by using other alternatives for creative wall finishing. A great alternative for wallpaper that adds a great texture to the wall surfaces would be a finishing technique such as faux finishing, sponging, or stenciling. These choices (and many more like them) offer you a variety of substitutes that are equally appealing and much easier to change then more permanent solutions such as wallpaper. If you absolutely must have wallpaper in any of the rooms, try using a border to achieve the look you''re going for instead of covering the entire wall surface.
When painting walls, if you apply a few well known interior design tips and tricks to your method, you will be pleasantly surprised in the overall effects when complete. For example, brighten up small or dark rooms with light wall colors. Add character and direction to larger areas by defining them with contrasting colors and textures. Bold or stark color panels can also provide a defining feature to an area that you can showcase wall pieces on when you are ready to accessorize.
Once the walls have been treated in your new home, the next item on the agenda while planning interior design for new homes would be dynamic placement of your hanging accessories such as mirrors, pictures, and art. Do not over clutter walls. Make good choices and place such items in key places by establishing focal points or presentation areas that will flatter the rest of your design.
Interior design for new homes can be a tricky process. There is a good possibility that the area pertained in your new home will be slightly larger or smaller then the space in your previous home. It is this reason that planning placement and theme of each space in your new home is so vitally important to successful interior design of new homes. Be sure to measure widths of furniture and doorways before moving day comes in order to avoid hassle while getting the furniture into your new living space. Take careful notice of any moving activity that occurs into and around your new home. Careless moving errors can disfigure floors and walls and create flaws in your new house before you have even begun living there.
Placement of furniture in new homes is one of the key aspects of unique interior design for new homes. The old philosophy of creating larger spaces (this is seen especially in living areas and rec rooms) by lining the furniture along the walls is true at times although at other times (again, especially in recreational-type rooms), dividing the room into two separate spaces by positioning furniture towards separate focal points therefore adding space and versatility to the area as well as enlarging it.
The most important matter of concern when designing or planning interior design for new homes is to build an environment that caters to the individuals living there. Creating a space that is accommodating to each person''s lifestyles is the general principle of new home design.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rosemary Leake is an Independent Consultant with Southern Living at Home. Inspired by Southern Living magazine, our exclusive home décor line brings warmth and style to every room of your home! Visit Rosemary''s Interior Design website for more articles and resources - http://www.interiordesignprofits.com. Also get your FREE Mini-Report "A Complete Guide To Interior Design."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------', 160, 'Interior Design For New Homes, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Interior Design For New Homes plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:39 AM | | 0 Comments
Home Office: Identifying Your Needs
Not many years ago, the thought of working from home was considered a fantastic vision of the distant future. However, with more and more people setting up home offices every day, it is clear that future has arrived earlier that many expected.
You may be interested in a home office because you are starting your own business, telecommuting or in need of space to tend to household paperwork such as paying bills, doing taxes or keeping tabs on investments.
Depending on your needs, a great office may be a pull-down desk in kitchen or a fully furnished setup in the basement. Still, no matter what type of home office you want to create, the goal is the same: a home office should have a comfortable, logical design that makes it easy to do the business at hand.
In essence, a home office is a fairly simple concept, but arranging one requires some careful consideration and planning. You will need to select a location, choose lighting and purchase office furniture and desk accessories.
Without a game plan, you may end up with a home office that is inefficient and impractical, and more expensive that you had planned.
A home office can take many forms, some of them quite simple. What is sometimes called "kids workstation" often includes a child desk and chair, a computer and drawer or two. For general family use, having a large desktop may be more important than setting up elaborate storage and filing systems.
But if you are planning to start client meetings, you will need a full array of office equipment, and you will need to set aside space for a conference table and perhaps even a reception area.
Before you begin to spend hundred or thousands of dollars on a home office, it is well worth taking some time to think about what its primary use will be.
Marjan Zemljic is owner of Home-decorating-ideas-and-tips.com and author of How to break into the interior design industry. In his book you will find out how you can do exactly that. For more home decorating ideas visit his website and learn how to create the home of your dreams.', 160, 'Home Office: Identifying Your Needs, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Home Office: Identifying Your Needs plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:38 AM | | 0 Comments
Pool Supplies Should Also Contain Safety
A swimming pool with attached spa has just been installed in your backyard. Now you are ready to invite your friends for a big splashy pool party ? or are you? Do you have all of the pool supplies you need to maintain your new fiberglass pool? Do you have the chemicals, pool toys, covers, automatic cleaners, pool heater, ladders, liners, slides, diving boards and on and on? You can see pool supplies can add up quickly. You want to be sure you have the fun toys for the kids, but the spa cover and pool alarm are necessary for safety and peace of mind. Supplies for the pool can be a very broad category. How are you going to use the pool? Do you have small kids or are you a retired couple? What kind of climate do you live in? Are you going to do the maintenance yourself or hire someone? If you are going to do a lot of the work yourself, don''t become overwhelmed. There are pool cleaners that are automatic robotic styles. They make spa and pool covers that automatically cover the pool for winter or if you are gone. There is even pool equipment that controls the pool equipment so you won''t have to spend too much time with upkeep and more time enjoying the water.
Pool heaters are great to have for an in ground or fiberglass pools and would be one of the first things you should look into purchasing. There are several types you might consider such as gas, propane, solar, or a heat pump. If you have an inflatable style pool such as Intex pools, you don''t really need a pool heater. With other pools, you will want a heater because the water will be much more comfortable for day and evening swimming. Did you know it was possible to have an overheated pool? You can cool a pool with a solar heat pump also. You can have an energy efficient pool heater, especially if you choose one that is operated with solar power. They are becoming extremely popular and account for approximately 20% of all heating systems. A solar pool cover can also assist with keeping the pool warm. They won''t in themselves heat the water, but they aid in less evaporation. When it comes to chemicals, you must treat the water so it is safe. There are all kinds of things on the market, so use as little of the harsh chemicals as possible as they can become irritating to the skin.
Your pool is supplied and safely maintained; so now check out the toys. The key to having fun in water is "inflatable or floating". There are huge numbers of things to buy such as floaties, noodles, toss games etc. and all can be enjoyed by young and old. One safety issue to always keep in mind is to remove the toys from the pool when no one is using it. Children are tempted to jump in for the toys when there is no supervision. I don''t have to tell you what a hazard this can be. A fence is not an option but a necessity. A safety latch should also be installed and protects the whole neighborhood. Secure and lock ladders so little ones aren''t tempted to climb in. You should also consider a safety alarm inside the home so you know when a door has opened, and an alarm at poolside so you know when someone is outdoors near the water. This can be the best time of your life with your family. Your pool is supplied and safe so jump in, the water''s fine.
Beverly Hlavka is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying hot tubs, pool supplies, saunas, above ground pools and more. Her many articles can be found at http://www.sauna-4u.com. She gives information and tips on http://www.sauna-4u.com/Pool%20Supplies.htm to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.', 160, 'Pool Supplies Should Also Contain Safety, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Pool Supplies Should Also Contain Safety plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:38 AM | | 1 Comments
Luxurious Whirlpool Baths Aren?t Just for the Rich and Famous
A Jacuzzi has been popular since the 40''s. We stopped taking the evening bath and are now taking more morning showers, but these wonderful whirlpool baths revolutionized the ways we relaxed and used our tubs. We feel better when we take a soak in a whirlpool bath because the swirling water is naturally calming and the bubbles offer therapeutic benefits. The bubbles stimulate the nerve endings just under the skin delivering more blood to the areas and we then feel warm and more relaxed. If you use these baths, you can carry away toxins in the muscles and reduce swelling and inflammation. You can''t always use your outdoor pools especially if you live in a winter climate so whirlpools can be used anywhere, anytime you feel like you need some extra muscle relaxation and stress relief. It wasn''t so long ago when Jacuzzis and whirlpools were only found in resorts, spas, mansions or bed and breakfasts. You had to leave your home and go on vacation to enjoy the soothing Jacuzzi''s jets in a bath. That is no longer the case. A whirlpool or spa of any kind is no longer a luxury item for the rich and famous.
You can create your own spa at home by selecting one of the choices available on the market today. Drop-in tubs can be placed into an elevated deck in your master bath, or you can find one of the built in models that are sunken into the floor. Darker colors will often cost more, and look rich. Basic jet action will target all areas of the back, but you can customize the position of the jets for your needs. The most common is the eyeball jet which delivers high pressure and low volume. You might want a rotating jet that can be positioned off position from the body. You can find specialty jets that stimulate the neck and lumbar areas. State of the art Jacuzzis feature a DVD player, flat screen TV, surround sound, underwater lighting, floating remote control and much more. Doesn''t that sound fabulous? This can all be yours in your own master bath. Is this a little too over the top? There are spas that are exactly in your price range. Before you buy, consider how you will use it, and how large you need it to be. Do you want it for soaking, relaxation, hydrotherapy or all of the above? Don''t let the stress of life get you down. You deserve the best in relaxation with fabulous Jacuzzis, whirlpools and baths.
If you want to concentrate on an investment for your home that is outdoors, consider a fiberglass pool, hot tub or inground pool or exercise pool. They increase the value of your home while giving you maximum enjoyment outside as well as inside.
Beverly Hlavka is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying hot tubs, pool supplies, saunas, above ground pools and more. Her many articles can be found at http://www.sauna-4u.com. She gives information and tips on http://www.sauna-4u.com/jacuzzi.htm to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.', 160, 'Luxurious Whirlpool Baths Aren?t Just for the Rich and Famous, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Luxurious Whirlpool Baths Aren?t Just for the Rich and Famous plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:37 AM | | 0 Comments
Traditional Interior Design
Traditional interior design encompasses a great variety of elements in a home. From the ceilings to the floor; including the trim, the wall finishes--all the way to the window treatments and the furniture.
The careful designer must focus attention on each of these items in order to create the ideal design. Lighting, wall treatments, flooring, and furniture are all fundamental steps in creating a smooth design. Each of these elements should tie in carefully with the last, creating an interchanging staircase of design. Theme, color, texture, and placement are the tools with which you are to design this delicate stairway.
Themes of traditional interior design vary from traditional to modernistic, from eclectic to yes--even retro. The decision of theme should (in my opinion) be left entirely up to the individual homeowner or business owner. Each person has a message they would like to convey to the world through their space. It is your job, as the designer, to listen to their wants and needs and to develop a solution that suits them perfectly.
If the client is having difficulty in assessing his or her design needs, provide them catalogs or magazines to browse through. Traditional interior design is a concept that is simple and everyone should be able to understand. After browsing through magazines and determining what appeals to them visually, it would be a good idea to ask them about their lifestyle needs.
Most clients with children will definitely need to keep the cost modest of their furniture. If the person is active socially and plans on entertaining, you will want to be sure to organize any recreational spaces in a way that is ideal for that type of entertaining.
Once the basic theme has been decided upon, the next major set of choices will be what colors to base those themes on. I always advise clients that it is better to fit the color with the space than the person in this situation. Does that sound unfair?
Many clients will associate their first color selection with their favorite color. A favorite color and wall paint sometimes don''t mix very well. Traditional interior design motivates the color choices more towards colors that match the room''s needs. This is so because very often you will find that even if a client is less then enthusiastic about the color selection, after the room has been painted and they have had the chance to see it, they change their minds quickly.
Try to offer this type of solution to your client in an encouraging, helpful way rather then with a know-it-all attitude. If they are still not very enthusiastic, try to show them pictures of similar colors in catalogs to give them a better feel of how it will look. Catalogs and magazines are an endless resource for things like this because it offers people a little insight into how designs play out.
All right, you have a theme in mind and a palette of colors to work from. What''s next in traditional interior design?
It honestly depends on the magnitude and scope of the project. Choose your wall treatments and get those out of the way if you intend on making any flooring changes. Don''t become hasty and have new flooring installed or the existing flooring refinished only to paint over the top of it while applying your wall treatment. Once the walls have been complete and allowed time to properly dry, then is the time to make flooring changes.
Flooring! Traditional interior design offers so many choices for all types of flooring; it is best to base this choice upon the needs and lifestyle of your clients. If they have children, suggest that easily washable, flat surfaced flooring is used with the compliment of a large rug in any recreational room. These rooms will be the rooms that are used the most often and are danger areas for anyone with kids or children. Explain to them that the rug is easily replaced but carpeting is not!!!
When the ''canvas'' is ready (the bare bones of the room), it is time for you to treat any windows before you begin moving furniture in and things get crowded. For small rooms, open them up by adding more light using sheer window coverings. The same idea with dark rooms that need a little extra light. Make ''short'' rooms tall using window-to-floor curtains or draperies in contrast to short furniture.
Traditional interior design includes MANY alternatives to window coverings that will fit any home. Keep in mind while doing this the activity on the outside of the window as much as you do to the appearance on the inside of it. If it is a very open window and the setting of the home does not offer much privacy, they will probably want privacy window coverings. After your windows are complete, hang any wall accessories before proceeding to the next step.
Time to bring in the furniture! A few key rules to remember while positioning furniture in traditional interior design: first, create lines and continuity. Second, be sure to create adequate walking space. Third, don''t over clutter. And fourth, be creative.
Once your furniture is in place and has been ''tested'', it is time to accessorize. Traditional interior design normally does this by placing a few instrumental accessories into place. Simplicity is elegant and too many accessories can lead to an uncomfortable room.
Try to purchase well-defined items that can even make great conversational pieces. If the homeowners are hands-on and involved, get them to add personal touches by creating an accessory themselves.
Traditional interior design is a catch-all that incorporates the workability and usability with the beauty of a room. Achieve the perfect balance by properly combining these items and you will be successful!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rosemary Leake is an Independent Consultant with Southern Living at Home. Inspired by Southern Living magazine, our exclusive home décor line brings warmth and style to every room of your home! Visit Rosemary''s Interior Design website for more articles and resources - http://www.interiordesignprofits.com. Also get your FREE Mini-Report "A Complete Guide To Interior Design."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------', 160, 'Traditional Interior Design, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Traditional Interior Design plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:37 AM | | 0 Comments
Use Air Filters and Common Sense for Allergy Relief
Do you suffer from allergies or asthma? If you are one of the millions of people that do, air filters and air purifiers provide much needed relief. Do you have smokers in the house? Air filters or air purifiers get rid of smoke and odor in your home. Different filters will accomplish different goals so you wouldn''t purchase the same filter for both problems mentioned above. Before you buy, consider what kind of allergens or particles you are trying to remove. There are a variety of technologies used in room air cleaners including ionization, ozonation, electrostatic precipitation, ultraviolet light, mechanical filtration and odor absorption.
An air cleaning system with a paper air filter works somewhat like coffee grounds, collecting in the coffee filter. Your air purifiers will generally have a filter that collects the particulates and gases in the air. As they get more and more clogged they actually can remove more particles and become more efficient, however, less air is passing through them also. If your unit has electrostatic plates, they get clogged with dust and need to be cleaned often or they won''t be efficient at all. The Ionic Breeze works somewhat this way giving the particles an electrostatic charge. Both systems work well; it is what you prefer for your home. If the air is too humid, a dehumidifier will lower the chances of mold and mildew growth.
If you are allergic to dust mites, do some research and find exactly what kind of unit you need you''re your particular allergy problem. Controlling the air quality and climate of your home may sound daunting, but it is actually not that difficult to achieve and can lead to substantial health benefits. Take the time to consider the quality of air that you are breathing. Is it the best it can be for you and your family, or could it be improved with air filters or air purifiers?
Air filters are great, but you might also want to consider changing your surroundings if you really have allergy problems. Dust mites, molds, animal dander, and insect debris are difficult to thoroughly clear from the environment. However, it really is easier and quicker to clean a hard surface such as wood, tile, vinyl, or leather than it is to clean all those nooks and crannies found in carpet, fabric, or other soft surfaces. Your bedding also needs to be as clean as possible. You might want to only use fabrics that can be repeatedly washed in hot water. Avoid down blankets or pillows and enclose your mattress in plastic.
Have the air ducts of your air conditioning system cleaned every year. Think twice before getting a dog or cat and indoor plants may promote mold growth. You might want to sleep with a brick under the head of the bed allowing sinus drainage. Use a HEPA vacuum frequently if you still have carpets in the house. Definitely stay away from smoke and keep the windows closed at high pollen times of the year. These are only a few tips to keep the quality of your air as clean and clear as possible for you and your family. You are the one in control of your health.
Mae Marshall is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying portable air conditioners, ceiling fans air filters and more. Her many articles can be seen at http://www.portable-air-conditioner-4u.com. She gives information and tips at http://www.portable-air-conditioner-4u.com/air_filters.htm to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.', 160, ' Use Air Filters and Common Sense for Allergy Relief, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', ' Use Air Filters and Common Sense for Allergy Relief plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:32 AM | | 0 Comments
Bring Out the Comforters for Back to School
If the weather is turning chilly it must time for the kids to go back to school. Bring out the comforters, flannel bed linens, quilts and stadium blankets. As in all bed linens and comforter sets, they come in different sizes to fit the bed you own. You probably have a king or queen size bed, and your kids may sleep in loft beds at home or at the dorm. A twin comforter will be just the right size for the kids away at school. Flannel bed linen comes in a lot of colors, patterns, and prints. They are great for young and old providing the right amount of warmth and softness next to the skin.
A comforter is generally filled with down and is one of the most popular choices of fill. It is light weight and incredibly warm. I feel that you can have warmth without weight and you never feel too cold while sleeping. There are many different kinds and qualities of down for every comforter. The least expensive is a combination of down and feathers, while just goosedown is the most expensive. Check the label for the "fill power". This will tell you how many ounces of down are in the comforter so you can determine how warm it will be. You can also choose a baffle pattern you like, the more tightly the feathers are held together, the warmer it will be as the feathers do not fall to the end of the comforter. Silk is another option for fill as well as a silk covering for the comforter. It is extremely warm, adjusts to your body temperature and is very lightweight. It is comparable in price to a high quality down comforter, and is also dry clean only. It is smart to do a little research before investing in something. Most comforters come in white, but you can purchase a duvet cover to match your décor if you wish. These are washable, but can be a bit difficult to put on and off the comforter on laundry day. Even if you have allergies, you may still be able to use down because it is believed that it is the mix of feathers with down that causes all of the allergic reactions. Also choose a fabric for the cover that is very tightly woven and this will also aid in protection from allergies. Often beds in dorms are extra long, bunk beds or loft beds. You can find comforters for all of these beds online or in stores.
Before you actually make a purchase of a comforter for yourself or your family, you might want to think about some things first. Do the kids like to sleep in a warmer room? Do you wear flannel pajamas or just a t shirt to bed? Are you generally chilly when you wake up? What is the coldest temperature your weather gets in the winter? Do you have a pillow top mattress or feather bed? All of these things will determine what type of comforter is best for your needs and sleeping habits.
Bev Marshall is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying mattresses, baby bedding and more. Her many articles can be found at http://www.bedding-4u.com. She gives information and tips at http://www.bedding-4u.com/Comforters.htm to help you save money, make informed buying decisions and common sense ideas for changing your life.', 160, 'Bring Out the Comforters for Back to School, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Bring Out the Comforters for Back to School plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:31 AM | | 0 Comments
Picnic Tables for Casual Dining Fun
Picnic tables are the perfect solution for an afternoon or evening get together. They offer everything from different shapes of a picnic table, to ones that fold up in a box. Picnic tables and outdoor benches are great for kids because they are strong, sturdy, and can handle lots of abuse. I remember the picnic tables on the playground when I was young; most of the time you were lucky if you didn''t get lots of splinters from them. Now they come in all kinds of materials such as ? wood, aluminum, plastic, steel mesh, PVC, and recycled material. There are plans that you can find online or from your home improvement store if you feel inclined to do it yourself. If you really want to get close to nature and have a casual day outdoors with the kids, forget the table and just get out picnic blanket. Picnics can also be quite romantic. Doesn''t it sound like fun with a bottle of wine and some cheese, just lying back on the blanket watching the clouds change shapes? It''s a great way to spend a lazy afternoon with someone you care about.
Outdoor benches are a good complement to the picnic table, allowing extra seating for the parents to watch the kids playing games. An outdoor bench placed near a fire pit or a hammock close to the pool allows ease and lots of mingling at your next picnic. Don''t forget about the picnic games. There are tons of them that you can think of as impromptu fun outdoors. They aren''t just for kids anymore, grownups enjoy them too. When it comes to the picnic food, get the kids involved. They will easily let you know what they want for their favorite meal and it will be fun for them to help you make it. Take some of the burden of planning off of you and put it on them. They will feel more apart of things if you do.
Even if your party is in your backyard on your own picnic table, it''s fun to get out the picnic baskets. Pack them ahead of time allowing for less stress on the actual day of the picnic. Include lots of games, plastic dishes, napkins, and plastic glasses. A plastic tablecloth makes for easy clean up if the kids get a little messy. It doesn''t matter if you live in the city or go for a country outing. Make sure the picnic table is under a shade tree, the kids have lots of games to play, and there is plenty of homemade ice cream and lemonade. Grandpa and grandma have their outdoor benches to sit on watching all the festivities. Ahhh?life is good.
Bev Hlavka is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying outdoor kitchens, hammocks, picnic tables and more. Her many articles can be found at http://www.patio-furniture-4u.com. She gives information and tips at http://www.patio-furniture-4u.com/Picnic%20Tables.htm to help you save money and make informed buying decisions', 160, 'Picnic Tables for Casual Dining Fun, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Picnic Tables for Casual Dining Fun plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:29 AM | | 0 Comments
Hammocks Create a Stress Free Zone
Stress is all around us, from the office to the front yard and everywhere in between. Homeowners are buying hammocks and porch swings to create that stress free zone they need to unwind after a busy day. All hammocks and porch swings are not created equal. A hammock can come with a stand for easy set up anywhere such as at poolside or by a lake; or others are hung between trees or from a ceiling. You will have to decide what type and style you want as there are so many sizes and types available. You might also want a chair style that can be hung from the ceiling. There are different sizes available in these as well. These are especially nice if you live in an apartment or townhouse. A hammock and swing are great sources of leisure for any backyard or porch. Combine a quality hammock with all of your other patio furniture and create a getaway in your very own backyard that rivals any trip to the islands. Hammock stands can be placed anywhere in your backyard to create the perfect oasis setting.
Some basic things to consider before buying a hammock, hammock stands, or porch swings are?
? Size
? Construction quality
? General styling
? Care
? materials
Some hammocks are washable, but you want to make sure that you tie the two ends together first before putting it in the washing machine. You also want to enclose it in a pillowcase before washing and use a mild detergent. Keeping the hammock properly dry is a consideration because you do not want it to mildew. If your hammock does not have removable spreader bars, your only option for cleaning is to place it on the driveway and hose it down. Again, allow enough time in the sun for proper drying.
Hammock accessories are a key source for creating that perfect stress free zone. Hammock stands, hammock pillows, outdoor swing cushions, and patio swing, are just a few of the options that are available. The pillows come in various shapes and sizes for your style of hammock. You will want to consider the type of element protection that is afforded the hammock. You will want a pillow that is good for indoor and outdoor use. The goal of the pillow is to keep your head from resting on the bar. You might also want added comforted by purchasing a hammock pad. This will increase your hours of enjoyment. A hammock blanket is lightweight and is great for cool evenings by the lake. Add in the misters and cup holders, and you will never want to leave your backyard. Take a deep breath, and let your cares melt away. Go outside on the porch and swing along in the breeze. Spend time in a hammock with a hammock stands, or porch swing, add a little music, and a cold glass of lemonade and you have everything you need to stay in the zone.
Bev Hlavka is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying outdoor kitchens, hammocks, picnic tables and more. Her many articles can be found at http://www.patio-furniture-4u.com. She gives information and tips at http://www.patio-furniture-4u.com/Hammocks.htm to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.', 160, 'Hammocks Create a Stress Free Zone, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Hammocks Create a Stress Free Zone plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:29 AM | | 1 Comments
Learning Interior Design
Learning interior design can be a simple or complicated task depending on a wide variety of factors including exposure, ability, creativity, and willingness to learn. This article is dedicated to explaining the basic elements that interior design is based upon so that you will have the ability to go out and research these elements on your own in order to advance you ability and perspective of the interior design world.
Lets begin with a few suggestions of where to properly conduct your research. A good beginning point for all of those interior design newbies would be television shows dedicated to the subject, books, magazines, other interior design professionals, ect.
Another resource that you have an unlimited exposure to that doesn''t cost you anything but time and focus are your eyes. Your eyes are wonderful tools for learning interior design and successful application of it. They are such terrific tools because eyes are the ears of the interior design symphony. They possess the ability to look upon any element of design and transmit information to your brain concerning the colors indicated in the design, textures, layout, and whether or not the overall effect is pleasing.
If you can master the ability of viewing a particular setting or scenario and delving from it the key elements of its visual success, you are enormous steps forward in your journey of learning interior design.
Find an example of a design setting that is pleasant or pleasing to you. This can be located in a book, magazine, or even in real-life. Close your eyes. Now open them. What do you look at first? The first item that your eyes focused upon is considered to be your focal point.
In television discussions or magazine articles it is sometimes wrongfully alluded to that there is one appointed (by the designer, of course!) focal point. This is simply untrue. For every person that views the room, that person offers a unique perspective.
One person might gaze intently at the fireplace due to the warmth and secure nature of that design element. Another might focus upon the sofa. Yet another person might elevate towards the remote control (ha!).
The point is, is that the focal point of a room is the area of the room that demands your attention upon arrival in it and generally you base your placement of activities that take place in that room on the location the that focal point. This is the reason why so much strategic planning is normally based on the focal points of a room when designing the creative outlay of the room. This is why your fundamental understanding of the focal points of a room is dramatically instrumental in learning interior design.
It is true that certain architectural elements of a room demand more attention then others. I think that this is one of the reasons that many people misunderstand the concept of focal points. Throughout your journey of learning interior design, you will come to understand the importance of balancing the understanding of architecture focal points, and living ones.
Certain people are naturally going to elevate towards different activities and objects in a room. This is why a basic understanding of both the human element and the architectural one are a keystone to successful interior design.
Once you have a basic to medium understanding of focal points and placement of items in and around those places, the other key feature of learning interior design is visual representation of objects.
Color, texture, and shape are the fundamentals in this category. When you view an object, the way that the light is reflected off of it onto your eyes is commonly known as color. Texture is the way that the object ''feels'' to you visually. Shape is the basic makeup of the object reflected visually. The correct combination of these characteristics results in a visually harmonious atmosphere.
Let''s imagine a few terms you hear when associated with design. ''Gaudy'' always pops into mind. A space with bold color representation, an overkill interjection of texture, and the overuse of modern or untraditional shape forms are all factors that would encompass that title.
''Simple'' would generally refer to the use of light, neutral color schemes in combination with small interjections of light texture and straight lined shapes. Simple, in my opinion is the basic ingredient to a successful recipe of design. Begin simply and build to your comfort level of complexity. This will not be an area that will flow naturally with you when you begin learning interior design. It will more then likely become an understanding that you will develop over time and exposure to different aspects of design.
To wind things up, the road to learning interior design is filled with information and visual perspectives that will open both your eyes and your mind to an entirely different world. Observation is the key to better understanding this world. Open your eyes and begin the adventure!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rosemary Leake is an Independent Consultant with Southern Living at Home. Inspired by Southern Living magazine, our exclusive home décor line brings warmth and style to every room of your home! Visit Rosemary''s Interior Design website for more articles and resources - http://www.interiordesignprofits.com. Also get your FREE Mini-Report "A Complete Guide To Interior Design."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------', 160, 'Learning Interior Design, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Learning Interior Design plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:27 AM | | 0 Comments
deas For Interior Design
Ideas for interior design are a dime a dozen these days. In fact, you can likely watch one hour of television dedicated to the subject and come away with enough information to design an entire home. The problem with the tv-to life application of ideas for interior design is that, to begin with, they are difficult to document. Unless you sit beside or in front of the tv, scribbling madly onto a piece of paper, it is tough to actually hang on to all of the ideas you might get from the show. Also, success with any interior design project is planning, planning, planning. Duplicating or copying a design from television into your home might involve some extra steps or planning that was not included in the thirty-minute or hour-long segment of the show. It is this reason that one should sit down and actually go through an entire ''dry run'' of a design before it is actually executed. This way, there is a better chance that you will figure out and take necessary preventative measures to ensure a problem free application.
Television is not the only resource for information and ideas for interior design. Books are a great helper to designers of any background or experience levels. The content found in books is often much more thought-out and explanative material then that of a tv show. This is so because many books entail much more basic material and information then a normal television show can include in a short segment of time. Also, books are commonly co-authored on such subjects and are generally edited before released in any form to consumers so the content has often times been written and/or edited by at least two separate parties. This is the case most often times, but there are always exceptions to the rules.
If a book seems too labor intensive or time consuming, you might consider magazine articles as a source for ideas for interior design. In magazines, you have the additional benefit of visual representations of design concepts that you can actually hold onto for an extended period of time. Many interior design professionals take advantage of this benefit by collecting large quantities of these articles or pictures and placing them into a format that is easily accessible to them. This is a tremendous resource for finding a particular look or feel that a client or person might not be able to describe in actual industry terms.
The terminology used by designers is fairly self-describing although people that are not exposed to the jargon might not understand certain concepts or phrases used in defining ideas for interior design. For example, most people are generally aware of the terms ''traditional'' or ''modern'' design although they might have trouble explaining ones such as ''Minimalist'' or ''Americana''. There is no reason to feel inadequate if these phrases are unfamiliar to you, just understand that the learning process takes time and is exactly as described, a process.
If you are comfortable with your own level of creativity, browse as many magazines as possible to put together a unique style or design code of your own and work within those guidelines and ideas for interior design applications. If you are a little less comfortable with your own sense of style and find it easier to point to a traditional design category, gather all the information possible related to that category and stick to the general guidelines presented in the information you have assembled.
The best way to assimilate information offering you ideas for interior design is to take a little information from each of the above suggested sources and compile it into a creative archive of sorts that you can access again at a later time in order to compare and contrast with your own ideas and vision.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rosemary Leake is an Independent Consultant with Southern Living at Home. Inspired by Southern Living magazine, our exclusive home décor line brings warmth and style to every room of your home! Visit Rosemary''s Interior Design website for more articles and resources - http://www.interiordesignprofits.com. Also get your FREE Mini-Report "A Complete Guide To Interior Design."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------', 160, 'Ideas For Interior Design, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Ideas For Interior Design plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
9:34 AM | | 0 Comments
Guides To Interior Design
These days, finding advice or guides to interior design is a quick and easy task. Are you looking to design that ''dream room'', the one that you have kept vision of for up teen years and never acted upon? Maybe you''re a professional who is interested in livening up their career situation by delving into the world of creative design. Or perhaps, a certain recent event in your life such as a marriage or even the arrival of a new baby has led you to undertake this mission. Whatever the reason, if you are new to the interior design scene, it is advisable that you dip your toe into the water before you lunge in. By this, I mean that the very idea that you are reading this article and in search of guides to interior design is a terrific sign!
To get things off on the right track, you will want to further your mission by seeking out and finding, reading, listening to, as many guides to interior design a possible. You will likely find this type of information in style magazines, catalogs, books, advice from distinguished designers, even home and garden television shows! The truth is, advice on this subject is relatively easy to find. Keep in mind, however, that just because guides to interior design are easy to find does not make the advice found practical or even sound. The best way to weather the wealth of information available and to gain the most helpful knowledge in question is to gather the information from a wide variety of sources and weigh it all with/against each other.
Not quite sure what I mean? For example, you might find articles in magazines specifically focused toward guides to interior design and design challenges presented by different spaces. If you are feeling especially motivated, buy magazines that are based solely on interior design issues and markets. If you find articles that you consider to be especially helpful, cut them out and collect them in a folder or paste them into a book that is dedicated exclusively to content related to guides to interior design. This may seem slightly overzealous but in the long run, the more educated on the subject you are, the more likely you are to excel in your undertaking of it. A word of advice: if you are taking your information primarily from magazines, be sure not to use out of date issues for your main content. An article or two is okay and even helpful in guiding you towards long time established or traditional design perspectives. However, keep in mind that interior design is based upon the newest and most popular trends in our society and many times non-traditional trends tend to fade away within five years or so.
There are advantages of television guides to interior design and there are disadvantages as well. The advantages are, of course, that the information provided is likely to be based on recent, popular design trends and most of them are relatively easy to incorporate into any setting. Many guides to interior design based upon information shown on television also offer how-advice and at times even troubleshooting information just in case you hit a rough spot in your application. Beware of the shows that dedicate their designs to work that showcases particular products or collections. These types of designs are often costly in nature and if you improvise it is very possible to create the same type of effect based upon a similar idea-using cheaper supplies.
If all else fails, you can always fall back onto your creative vision. Cut clippings from magazines and advertisements that present a particular design or feeling that you would like to recreate. Once you have established a relatively large collection, go through the clippings and write down the similarities in the designs that help incorporate the particular look you want. By doing this, you can combine the information you have collected and create your own personal space-designed especially for you
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rosemary Leake is an Independent Consultant with Southern Living at Home. Inspired by Southern Living magazine, our exclusive home décor line brings warmth and style to every room of your home! Visit Rosemary''s Interior Design website for more articles and resources - http://www.interiordesignprofits.com. Also get your FREE Mini-Report "A Complete Guide To Interior Design."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------', 160, 'Guides To Interior Design, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Guides To Interior Design plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
9:25 AM | | 0 Comments
Your Building Your Dream Home, But Where Do You Start?
You have finally found the perfect lot, in the neighborhood of your choice, and at a price you can afford. Now you have to decide what type of house you want built. In fact you may even know the house you want, be it a big rambling farmhouse, with a wrap-a-round porch reminiscent of your grandmother''s home, a rustic log cabin or a more modern luxurious home. Whatever you choose, the first thing you will need is a set of house plans.
An architect can draw up plans to your exact specifications, but this can be very expensive. A building contractor may show a selection of home plans to choose from, but perhaps a better less costly idea would be to purchase a set of pre-drawn house plans. There are magazines and web sites where you can purchase plans for just about any style house you could imagine.
Most House plans web sites allow you to search, by house style, such as country, cottage, log cabin, Tudor or luxury home. You can also search by price, designer, number of bedrooms, number of stories, garage etc. not all sites offer all search options.
Informational articles, or FAQs (frequently asked Questions) are available on most sites. These provide information about the different types of plan sets available and what is included in each, making changes to the house plan you choose, return policy, finding a builder, return policy, and a number of other questions. For Questions not covered in the information section, there is usually a toll free number you can call to get the answers to your questions.
The types of house plan sets are: Construction sets. Which consists of 5 to 8 complete sets of plans. This set is what you will need, to get a building permit, arrange financing, and actually get your house built. The plans in this set include, exterior views (elevations), floor and roof plans, basement or foundation plans, Building sections, electrical schematic, and usually information about such things as structural specifications, excavation and grading, flooring material, carpentry, and tiling. A building license, not to be confused with a building permit, is included. The license allows you to use the plans to create your dream home.
A reproducible set is available for making minor changes to your plans. The plan is drawn on erasable vellum or Mylar. This set comes with a Copyright Release, allowing you to make as many copies as needed to accommodate the changes you make to the original plan. It also comes with a building, license, but you may not construct more than one house without first getting a multi-use license from the company.
The CAD set is intended for use when you will have a local architect make major changes to the original house plans. It also includes a copyright release so that your designer can make copies as needed. Again you need to get a multi-use license if you intend to build more than one house.
A study set, is used primarily for estimating costs, it usually doesn''t include foundation plans and may not be copied. No license is included and comes marked with a "Not for Construction" label. Lastly there is the Single set it is for obtaining bids, it also bears the "Not for Construction" label, and no license is provided.
The designers of pre-drawn house plans do their drawings to meet national building codes. It is possible that you will need to hire a local architect to bring your plans up to code for your area. It may be wise to contact your local building agency and to find out what is required to get a building permit.
At last you have chosen the plans for your new home, obtained financing, and your plans meet code. What comes next? You need to hire a building contractor, and sub contractors, for electricity and plumbing. Where do you begin? Most areas license contractors, so make sure that the people you interview, have the right qualifications, and licenses. If you had a local designer to alter your plans she may be able to refer you to some qualified, reputable contractors in your area. If you have had electrical or plumbing work done in your present home, that person may have the name of a good builder. Always ask for and check references, Also, make sure your contract provides for redress if the work is not completed, done properly and to code standards Once you hire a qualified builder, he should have the names of plumbers, air conditioning specialists and electricians that he has worked with in the past. Check the Better Business Bureau to see if the person you are considering has any complaints lodged against them.
The companies that sell house plans will usually make minor changes to your plan, for an additional charge and it may not be necessary to hire a local designer. However, the changes must be requested at the time of purchase.
It is possible to have your plans reversed in most cases. If your breakfast nook faces north for instance and the best view from your lot is to the south, you can ask to have the plans reversed. Most house plan web sites allow you to view the reversed image on line. Occasionally the view can''t be seen on line, but most companies will email you a reversed view in that case.
One thing the plans do not include is the actual layout of the electrical, plumbing and air conditioning work, since the designers have no way to know where on your lot these lines would enter the house. Your contractor s will have no problem working that out.
There are dozens of home styles to choose from .A- frame to Victorian. One search option is size. A small house is anything up to 1500sq. ft. of living space, a medium size is from 1500 to 2500 sq. ft. A home over 2500sq.ft is considered large.
A luxury home is also 2500 sq. ft. or more and has extras, such as large main floor master bedroom suite, walk in closets, media room, and home office. Premium homes are also large, often 5000sq.ft. In addition to the Master bedroom suite and extra special use rooms, they generally have a bathroom for each bedroom. Music room''s media centers, and offices are common. The garages with these houses are often larger than 600sq.ft
Your dream house is out there, you just need to do your homework. When you find the right plan to suit your family and your lot. Make sure your contractor is licensed, reputable and qualified to do the work and adheres to your local building code. Be sure that your contract protects you if the work isn''t done to code. Stay in touch with the contractor, visit the site often, be there when the last detail is completed. Now relax and enjoy your new home.
About the Author
Martin Smith is a successful freelance writer providing advice for home buyers and consumers on purchasing a variety of unique house plans which includes cottage plans, beach house plans, and more! His numerous articles provide a wonderfully researched resource of interesting and relevant information', 160, 'Your Building Your Dream Home, But Where Do You Start?, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Your Building Your Dream Home, But Where Do You Start? plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
9:24 AM | | 2 Comments
Planning Lightning
When you are choosing a color scheme for any room in your home, the first thing to take into account is how that room will be used and, thus, the type of lightning you will need. Light is very important in a room, because it affects colors and makes them seem lighter or darker.
Natural light from windows will change the appearance of colors at different times of the day ? enlivening them in the morning sun and gradually toning them down as the day progresses.
Artificial lights also affect the colors in a room, making them look lighter or darker. They can also play tricks with colors, sometimes causing dramatic changes a, literally the flick a switch.
Lamps are the most popular choice of lights today and are easy to install, a homeowner can accomplish this by himself in just a few hours. They are a very important part of any home that will beautify and add warmth and elegance for every room in your home.
The possibilities for using home lighting are endless when considering light fixtures to decorate your home and the fun and satisfaction of decorating the interior of your home by yourself will be rewarding.
Lightning can be used to accentuate features in the room in much the same way as colors and patterns. Strategically positioned wall lights, spotlights, uplights, or ceiling downlights can be arranged so that they wash a complete wall with a blanket of light.
They can also be used to good effect to highlight an isolated area, such as a display shelf, or a recess filled with beautiful objects, or to light a work of art such as sculpture or painting.
The days are long gone when it was considered adequate to light a room with a single, central pendant light. In specialist lighting store, you can be overwhelmed by the lightning options open to you. Light fixtures, bulb wattages, and even colored light have been brought into the scheme of things so that, apart from practical values, there is also the esthetic appeal to consider. Lampshades, too, contribute to the interest and atmosphere of the room, coming as they do in a vast choice of shapes, sizes, materials, and colors.
Marjan Zemljic is owner of Home-decorating-ideas-and-tips.com and author of How to break into the interior design industry. In his book you will find out how you can do exactly that. For more home decorating tips visit his website and learn how to create the home of your dreams.', 160, 'Planning Lightning, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Planning Lightning plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
6:02 AM | | 1 Comments
What Does It Take To Be An Interior Designer?
When trying to decide if Interior Design is right for you, it helps to know what that really means. Interior Design is not simply the profession that "makes rooms and places pretty"; it takes a little bit more than that. You need to know how to do some of the technical aspects of design also. Some of these technical things include:
Designing and reading blueprints:
This is particularly for the projects that require a great change in the area''s structure like wall removal etc. This is also required in order to make additional rooms, build gazebos, and adding extra rooms. You will need to draw up blueprints of the entire house or read the originals copies, so that you can do your job without causing much disturbance to the rest of the house or environment.
Environmental Analysis:
Once you can read blueprints, you will have to analyze the information that is listed so that you can best decide where to go with your ideas. You need the ability to effectively create or remove space in a particular environment so that you can cause little or no disturbance the environment as a whole when making your changes.
Environmental Lighting:
Many people forget that lighting is included in any space changing project. You must have knowledge of how lighting works, and have a general idea of what is needed to install light fixtures in areas that do not have them already.
Many homes are not equipped with lighting fixtures in some rooms. Of course, if you wish to change the lighting fixtures from general lamps to say, track lighting, you may have a problem if you do not understand how to install it.
Basic Plumbing & pipe structure:
If adding or changing spaces in kitchens and bathrooms, plumbing fixtures are often changed or re-organized. You will need to understand their basic functions in order to effectively plan a change that involves them, or is to be done around them.
Before you consider home decorating as a profession, you should ask yourself these questions.
Creativity?
Creativity is a subtle, but important quality to have when considering interior design as a profession. Much of your advancement will depend on your ability to be original in your creative efforts to design any space. Clients will always want to keep a designer that can offer them something that nobody else has.
You will also need to be able to turn whatever items that they already have into works of art. Sometimes clients do not want to change everything, or buy new furnishings and draperies; they simply want to make whatever they do have look and feel different. Creative thinking is the only thing that is going to help here.
• Colors are your friend, and creativity can help you in setting colors against one another. Many designers love to add color to a room and change things just using this method and perhaps adding accents to existing items.
• Accents in a room can vary. You can create a great space by adding throw pillows, valances, and vases. This is the perfect career choice for a person that likes to be creative, abut not idle and/or isolated.
Am I Organized?
• Believe it or not, Interior Designers have to be extremely well organized to be able to handle all of the little details that go into doing a good job. You have to be able to keep track of your entire inventory, while keeping on top of other things also like, materials, tracking orders, employees, and making sure that you stay on or below the budget that your client set out for you.
• It is no easy feat to try and keep track of all the things that have to be done; especially when you''ve got people constantly surrounding you. You must monitor what everyone is doing and still manage to keep up on what you should be doing. Do not forget that you also have to appear calm because your clients will likely be asking you a great deal of questions. If you are scattered and panicked, it will be difficult to answer all the questions and look cool at the same time.
• The ability to know where everything is at, and where every person is at is another aspect of organization. It is very hard to keep jobs if you are constantly wondering where things, and employees are.
• You will need to be very well organized if your design projects lead you to having to add or remove a room and/or wall. This type of work requires the use of blueprints. You must be able to read them as well as draw them up, you cannot do this without a great sense of organization.
How Good am I at Problem Solving?
The ability to problem solve is a necessity for an Interior Designer. As an Interior Designer, you will encounter glitches, and it is a must that you can deal with them. Many times, these glitches will need to be solved on the spot.
Your organizational skills will come in handy when you need to solve a problem as well. An organized workplace will help you to have an organized mind. Thoughts have a way of being cluttered when your work space is likewise.
Being able think quickly and under pressure is a definite asset to problem solving. Your problem is not going to get easier if it takes you too long to come up with a solution for it. Actually, waiting can just give the universe more time to make the problem get bigger.
Can I Multitask?
Most jobs require a good ability to multitask. None of these jobs requires it as much as Interior Design does. The reason for this is because Interior Designers are often doing more than one thing at a time. You can be giving instructions to your contractors, working with your assistant on the fabrics, all while explaining it your client.
This can cause a little bit of stress, but if you are good at multitasking, it is not so bad.
If you are not particular good at multitasking, you need not worry. Some people have just never been put to the test as far as that''s concerned. You may have had a relaxed job setting, or you may have worked on an assembly line for a few years. Many jobs require you to do regular tasks. They can be quite monotonous.
Marjan Zemljic is owner of Home-decorating-ideas-and-tips.com and author of How to break into the interior design industry. In his book you will find out how you can do exactly that. For more home decorating ideas visit his website and learn how to create the home of your dreams.', 160, 'What Does It Take To Be An Interior Designer?, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'What Does It Take To Be An Interior Designer? plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
6:01 AM | | 0 Comments
Mistakes?
MISTAKES.
Don''t worry about making mistakes.
Everyone makes mistakes.
Why should you be different.
The person who never made a mistake, never made anything. Mistakes can be costly. They can also be educational. Look upon your mistakes as an asset.
Life is a learning process. Learn from your mistakes. Profit from them and you will not only make more money, you will also become a better person.
You must face the fact that from time to time you will make the odd mistake.
As long as they are not life threatening, pick yourself up, dust yourself down and get on with your life. Just remember to not make the same mistake twice.
As I said before, "Learn from your mistakes."
Better still, learn from other people''s mistakes.
There are people out there who have become millionaires working on the internet. Do you think they never made mistakes? They are only too willing to admit to their mistakes and to explain how they resolved them.
If you want to get to the top, and I presume that you do, study those who have already made it to the top. Study the way that they did it. Copy the methods of successful people. They will not be too proud to explain the problems they encountered on the way. Problems that you will surely meet as you progress and gain experience.
Disregard the ''overnight gurus'' trying to sell you the latest get rich scheme. If you listen to them you will be making the biggest mistake of all.
The old adage'' Learn to walk before you try to run.'' Holds good in any type of business venture.
The main difference when setting up a business on the internet, as against setting up a conventional business, is that on the internet there is no shortage of genuine advice for the newcomer to take advantage of.
Good advice is there for the taking. Don''t disregard it just because it is free. Some of the very best things in life are free.
Just make sure that you take full advantage of them.
Relax, nothing is so bad that it can''t be fixed.
Here''s to your great success. Bob?.
Robert has been on line for over four years and earns a very good living from some of the very best affiliate programs on the web. This is one of his favorites. If you are interested in growing your very own opt-in mailing list in the shortest possible time, take a look now.
http://www.bz9.com/robjfar ''It''s free.''', 160, 'Mistakes?, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Mistakes? plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
6:00 AM | | 0 Comments
Hot Tubs Create a Backyard Oasis
What would you like in the backyard that is great for entertaining, would be a focal point and can be enjoyed by the whole family? Hot tubs could be what you are looking for. Immersing in hot or warm water goes back centuries to Greek, Japanese and Roman texts. Hydrotherapy has said to aid in pain and stress relief. They also offer fun at the same time. Water is buoyant and resists gravity. It is known to aid in sleeping and easy exercises done in the warm water assist with muscle and joint pain. The jets massage the body and just feel good. If you haven''t experience that good feeling when you are relaxing in the warm water of a hot tub and the jets are bubbling or swimming in the pool with the cool water lapping around you then you are really missing something in life. You can actually assist your heart to beat more efficiently while you sit back in the water.
A hot tub gazebo and beautiful landscaping can create a private oasis in your backyard. Hot tubs are an easy way to achieve the "get away from it all" feeling at home. Would you like to create a total hot tub experience? Along with the private setting, you can include surround sound and play your favorite music. How about special lighting that changes for atmosphere? If you don''t want to miss the football game, some tubs come equipped with pop up televisions and cup holders or ice buckets. You can customize your soak and have a foot well just for those aching feet, or waterfalls and misters installed. Add scent with aromatherapy options for a lovely scent wafting over your experience. Sounds good doesn''t it? Who doesn''t think of a party when you hear the word "hot tub"? It is a very social type of gathering but can be extremely romantic for two at the same time. Lean back and look up at the stars with the person you love while listening to the surround sound music.
There are sizes and colors that are available to suit every budget. Before you buy, think about how you are going to use it. Is it just for two or do you want to entertain? Don''t be afraid to sit in one in the showroom. You want to get something that is comfortable for your back. In order to enjoy the tub, make sure you talk to your dealer about the accessories you will need and the cleaning procedures. You may want a hot tub cover to keep the outside debris from getting in. There are many cover lifts on the market if you find they are too unwieldy for you. Look for a highly insulated model as it will save on energy costs. Hot tubs are smart because you can program them to automatically heat up and turn on or off without having to move a muscle. Check with the manufacturer if the model you want can be accessed via the internet. This is especially nice if you are gone and you live in a winter climate. A lot of damage can be done if the temperature gets too cold and the tub freezes. If you have one in a vacation home that you only visit once a week it would be nice to remotely check in on it. Ask if you can have the capability for a remote control. Some settings can be confusing so look for a system that makes sense to you and doesn''t look like an airplane cockpit. You deserve the benefits of owning a hot tub, so go step out into the water, it''s just right.
Beverly Hlavka is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying hot tubs, whirlpools, Jacuzzis, saunas, pool supplies and more. Her many articles can be seen at http://www.sauna-4u.com. She also gives information and tips on http://www.sauna-4u.com/hot_tubs.htm to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.', 160, 'Hot Tubs Create a Backyard Oasis, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Hot Tubs Create a Backyard Oasis plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:59 AM | | 0 Comments
Make your Sauna a Focal Point
A sauna has been used throughout history in every part of the world to promote health. The wealthy did not consider their mansions complete without the warmth of a steam bath or spa. Today, hot tubs, above ground pools, Jacuzzis, swimming pools, and saunas are considered a necessity in the best health clubs, resorts and spas. Centuries ago, saunas were used to "cure the blood" and used primarily in hospitals and birthing wards. Athletes from European countries even carry portable saunas around with them to sporting events for relaxation and body healing. There is evidence that the sweat producing steam rooms support the immune system and increase circulation. Sweating is our body''s built-in mechanism for keeping the temperature as close to 37 degrees Centigrade as possible. We rid wastes of all types out of the pores of the skin as well. It is said that smokers will benefit from the use of a hot wrap because the towel will come out yellow as the toxins are eliminated from the body. It has been known since the days of Hippocrates that an "artificial fever" will assist the body in healing. Your immune system is boosted, and the white blood cells increase. As we become hotter, we produce interferon and speed up the development of antibodies.
There are many styles of saunas for indoors and outside. They would make a nice addition to a patio or as an accompaniment to above ground pools or hot tubs. The experiences are all quite different which makes relaxing and entertaining fun and easy for the whole family or neighborhood. If you rent or don''t have much backyard space, you may want a portable sauna in your bathroom. It is certainly a luxury to create your own private oasis in your master bath or anywhere else in the house. You can even place a sauna in a closet that you aren''t using, or the garage. You are only limited by your budget and size restraint as to the type you can put in your home. You have the capability to create a custom bath or a use one of the many pre-made kits that are on the market. It''s your choice.
If you do have the space, have the sauna become a focal point for your backyard or patio. Combine the wonder of nature and the soothing, relaxing health benefits with your choices of outdoor saunas. A hot tub provides hydrotherapy, and is also nice choice for the backyard. The warmth of the water under the starry sky is truly a romantic experience.
There are many benefits from the use of saunas or steam rooms, but caution should be used as well. It is not recommended for people with high blood pressure or heart disease to use a sauna as it may increase the heart rate. Small children, pregnant women and the elderly should also use with caution or consult your physician. If you are chronically ill, you may want to consider an infrared sauna after asking your doctor. This type of system works without using as much heat in the air. The body is heated instead of the enclosure and you will feel more comfortable as you use it. If you have never tried this wonderful method of relaxing and detoxifying the body, you should put it at the top of your list of things to enjoy this year.
Beverly Hlavka is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying saunas, whirlpools, hot tubs, above ground pools and more. Her many articles can be found at http://www.sauna-4u.com. She gives information and tips on http://www.sauna-4u.com/Pool%20Supplies.htm to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.', 160, 'Make your Sauna a Focal Point, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Make your Sauna a Focal Point plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:58 AM | | 0 Comments
Dehumidifiers Wring Out Your Home
Anyone that has a home office or bedroom in the basement knows how valuable a dehumidifier can be. Without it, the basement would be damp and useless, mold and mildew would grow promoting ill health and insects would have a perfect place to live. Your basement is underground, humid and in constant contact with the cool damp earth. If you don''t control the moisture and humidity throughout the year through dehumidifiers, your carpet and furniture could be ruined, even photographs can be destroyed. I have always found that I am more comfortable when the humidity is lower. I don''t like hot weather, but I would rather have it be dry and hot than cool and damp. What is it they say? "It''s not the heat, it''s the humidity." You might want to consider installing a ceiling fan to work in tandem with the dehumidifier. They help circulate the air, will dry out the basement even more and you will feel much more comfortable. Ceiling fans don''t cool the air, but you will feel better because of evaporation than if no fan were there at all.
Excessive moisture can be present in the air any time of the year, so it is important to have a dehumidifier that can deal with hot and cold climates. In order to dry out all parts of the home, consider a portable dehumidifier with wheels and a handle for ease of movement from room to room. Place your portable dehumidifiers in various positions around your apartment or home. Experiment with the settings depending on the local forecast and the time of day. Generally, the humidity level decreases at night as a result of cooler temperatures. When using a dehumidifier in rooms that are especially damp such as a basement, keep the doors and windows closed as much as possible. Keep closet doors open to dry out shoes and clothing. Also make sure you put only clean clothes in the closet or in enclosed places as just a little bit of soil is enough to breed mold and mildew. You must clean your dehumidifiers on a weekly basis. Mold spores, bacteria, mildew can accumulate in the dehumidifier''s grate. Make sure you unplug the unit before removing water or doing any cleaning.
Living in a home with mold and mildew is terrible for your respiratory system. All kinds of allergy symptoms can arise when your home is too humid. When you take control of your environment through the use of a dehumidifier, ceiling fan, air conditioner, or other cooling system, you will have a better place for your family to live and work. Portable cooling systems also reduce the strain on the environment. You are only working with one small space and not a complete home so you are using less energy, saving you money and power usage for the community. If you have a particularly hot and humid summer, this can really make a difference. The technology we have today gives us many reasonably priced options for keeping cool, dry and comfortable.
Mae Marshall is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying portable air conditioners, dehumidifiers, air filters and more. Her many articles can be found at http://www.portable-air-conditioner-4u.com. She gives information and tips at http://www.portable-air-conditioner-4u.com/dehumidifier.htm to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.', 160, ' Dehumidifiers Wring Out Your Home, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', ' Dehumidifiers Wring Out Your Home plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:58 AM | | 0 Comments
Ceiling Fans Look Great and Save You Money
It doesn''t matter if you live in a hot climate or the North woods; there are many days when the breeze isn''t blowing and you would like the air to circulate for comfort. Running central air conditioning is expensive and isn''t always called for. We automatically feel cooler just from the evaporation against our skin when a slight breeze is blowing. Energy costs are high enough so why not consider ceiling fans for your rooms? You get the circulation you need and a great look at the same time. Because they are hanging from the ceiling, they''re out of the way. You don''t have anything to walk around or trip over. They also save you money in the winter time. You can adjust the switch to rotate the blades in the opposite direction, causing a downdraft, circulating the warm air from the furnace. Most of the models have more than one speed so you can control the amount of air movement you want. A ceiling fan looks great in any room and can eliminate the need for air conditioning. If you have low ceilings, don''t worry about it. There are hugger styles that only come down a few inches from the ceiling. If you need to drop a fan from a cathedral height, you can find that as well. No matter how much clearance you have, you will be able to find a style for your needs.
The size of the room will determine the size of fan blades you will need. For example, if you want a fan for a bedroom, purchase a fan with 36-inch fan blades. One of my bedrooms was very small but I didn''t have central air and I needed circulation at night to sleep. I had to find a very small ceiling fan to accommodate the room size. This was no trouble and worked exactly as I hoped it would. On the other hand, if you want a fan for your family room, the size of the fan blades would be different. This type of room would probably take a 48 or 56 inch fan blade. Two fans would probably be used in a room that is longer than 19 feet. This is only a guideline, use your judgment of what would look right for your home.
A ceiling fan is usually installed in the center of a room so it can become the focal point. You might choose a fan that is modern and contemporary in black or red enamel. What about a fan that is plain white so it will blend into the ceiling, or customize it by stenciling a design to match your décor? These fans are nice for your child''s room as well. There are such cute styles available such as airplanes, soccer balls and baseballs for lighting, nursery rhyme themes, primary colors for blades and so much more. If you want a fan in the lanai or sunroom, what about a tropical style? The fan blades could be sail cloth, or wicker in natural, white, black or they could look like actual leaves. The palm blades could even be attached to the fan much like track lighting. They don''t have to be in a circular pattern. This would give you more versatility in the room. You may want this style outdoors on the patio. Many of the styles available are coded for outdoor use. Just check with the instructions and the manufacturer before installing a ceiling fan outside. You want to be sure they are protected from the elements and that they are specific for outdoor use. Another contemporary style is one where the motor is globular and there are fan blades that rotate around it such as a satellite would orbit the earth. It doesn''t matter if you have a Victorian style home or contemporary, log home or ranch, you can find any style you can imagine for your rooms. It will look great, enhance the theme and circulate the air saving you money at the same time. Some of the name brands you may or may not recognize. You can find a ceiling fan to fit every budget. Be aware that a really inexpensive ceiling fan may be a little noisier. It is nice to have them do their work, but you don''t want to hear a squeaky motor running either.
When you install a ceiling fan in your home, you have just accomplished an economical makeover, helped lower your energy costs in winter and summer and put in a piece of air cooling equipment that will work with the air conditioner for even more efficiency. That''s a really good decision.
Mae Marshall is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying portable air conditioners, dehumidifiers, air filters and more. Her many articles can be found at http://www.portable-air-conditioner-4u.com. She gives information and tips at http://www.portable-air-conditioner-4u.com/ceiling_fans.htm to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.', 160, 'Ceiling Fans Look Great and Save You Money, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Ceiling Fans Look Great and Save You Money plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:58 AM | | 0 Comments
Be Cool and Comfortable While Saving Money
The cost of energy is on the rise, so if you want to have better air quality and feel more comfortable, you must be prepared to pay for it. People in homes and businesses are looking for ways to save money and still remain comfortably cool. Purchasing a portable air conditioner is one way to lower your energy costs. Central air conditioning an entire home is expensive. The portable model will cut down on the cost by only spot cooling the room you wish. Ceiling fans help circulate the air while a dehumidifier takes the moisture out of the air. These two work in tandem with portable air conditioners creating totally comfortable surroundings. Your sunroom might be the warmest room in the house or your bedroom might be located on the second floor.
At night when you want to sleep, or in the afternoon when you want to read, you need extra assistance for comfort. Portable air conditioners are easy to move around and place just where you need them most. A window air conditioning unit is unsightly, doesn''t fit certain shapes of windows, can do damage to the window frame, and is a job to install. Portable air conditioners are the perfect solution for this problem. Place it exactly where you wish in the room and you will have cool comfort anytime. Is your office building turning off the air at night to save money? This can wreak havoc with your computers that create their own heat. Many companies feature portable cooling systems that will be just the right size to keep your valuable computer equipment safe. These systems are very specific to the type of system you have, so check with the manufacturers for the proper cooling system for your equipment.
Humidity is another issue that can make you feel uncomfortable, and it can do damage to your home and furnishings. Your basement will feel humid most of the time because it is nearest the earth and in many states there is a high dew point during the summer. A recommended humidity level in the home is around 40 ? 50%. A dehumidifier is necessary to remove the moisture and protect against mold and mildew or a musty odor. These are two damaging things to your home and your respiratory system. Floors can warp, wallpaper can peel and pipes will drip if there is too much moisture in the air. A dehumidifier works best if they are in an enclosed area away from outdoor air and where air movement is restricted. The goal is to feel more comfortable, but you want to be energy efficient as well. Check for models that do not keep the fan running continuously. This isn''t really necessary and will be more expensive to run. A dehumidifier doesn''t need much care. Just scrub out the pan containing the water every few weeks to discourage the growth of bacteria. Make sure anytime you do this to unplug the system first.
If you want a little extra circulation in a room with or without air conditioning, a stylish ceiling fan might be just what you need. They can create the atmospheric surroundings you want and give a look that blends with any décor. They can be adjusted for the winter as well. Most have a switch that adjusts the way they spin, creating an updraft or a downdraft. There is just about any model and style you could want for your room. They are made so that they hug a ceiling if you don''t have a lot of clearance, or long enough for a cathedral style vaulted ceiling. You can even find models that work outdoors. Using any of these items alone or together will help promote healthy living so you, your families and employees are happier and more productive.
Mae Marshall is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying portable air conditioners, dehumidifiers, air filters and more. Her many articles can be found at http://www.portable-air-conditioner-4u.com. She gives information and tips at http://www.portable-air-conditioner-4u.com/air_filters.htm to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.', 160, 'Be Cool and Comfortable While Saving Money, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Be Cool and Comfortable While Saving Money plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:54 AM | | 0 Comments
If You?re Looking for Bedding, Think ?Pink?
If you have come to a point in your life that you want a serious relationship, I would strongly suggest that you "think pink". This may sound strange to some of you, but I have discovered that the color "pink" has some interesting qualities. Pink is definitely a girly color, and it speaks of love, romance and partnership. Pink flowers, hearts, and just about anything else this color makes you feel soft and feminine. What woman doesn''t love receiving even a single pink rose? The majority of the time you will think of pink for baby bedding if you are expecting a girl. Most of the gifts you receive at a baby shower will be pink for your newborn girl. Don''t stop using pink for your bedding after you have grown up. There are lots of things you can do to enhance your bedroom when it comes to finding partnership and having a pink duvet cover or bedspread is just one of them.
I really wanted a serious relationship in my life so I decided to use the color pink to my advantage. If you have read about the principals of Feng Shui, you know that pink is an important color to enhance partnerships and when used in the bedroom wonderful and magical things can happen. With the intention of a loving relationship clearly in my mind, I went out and purchased a pink comforter and sheets to match for my bed. It had only a small tonal design, but I didn''t want a lot of other flowers or patterns getting in the way. The color was what mattered to me, the thing that was going to jumpstart my quest for the ideal relationship. I put my new pink bedding on the minute I got home from the store and visualized what this new man would look like and the kinds of things we would do as a couple. I didn''t stop redecorating my room with just the pink bed linen; throw pillows in different shades of pink were called for as well. I already had several vintage velvet pillows in the shape of hearts that were perfect. I put white lace accents around the dresser representing the lace from a wedding dress. I placed two pink candles beside the bed and immediately lit them both. Two is better than one because this also reinforces the pair and not just one single candle standing alone. I found beautiful artwork that went well with the new bedding. I had fresh pink roses in my bedroom everyday.
I also cleared out my closet of all the stuff I no longer wore, gave it to charity and created a "space" for the man coming into my life. I went through my drawers as well, and it felt good to get rid of some of the stuff I was hanging on to. You''d be surprised what you find when you go through your stuff. Clearing the clutter out of your life is also a Feng Shui principal that opens the way for something new to enter in; out with the old and in with the new as they say. Are you starting to get an idea of how you can use some common sense things to assist you in finding your right relationship?
If all of this pink, hearts and flowers are beginning to look too much like bubblegum, just take a moment and think about how you would like your bedroom to look. There are many shades of pink. You don''t have to buy a duvet cover or comforter that looks like it belongs to a ten year old. Some of the salmon and mauve shades available in the bedding department are very sophisticated. If you aren''t excited about lace and velvet, why not try satin with silver accents or how about rich chintz or beefy jacquards? Look for things that mean something to you. You might also have a family piece that your mother gave you, and every time you look at it, it reminds you of your parent''s happy and enduring marriage. This is even more helpful when placed with intention in the room. If you find a beautiful modern bronze sculpture of a couple entwined, go for it. You might see the perfect heart grapevine wreath with roses, so hang it with love and the thoughts of things to come. If pink sheets aren''t called for, why not paint the room a warm rose and change the curtains or draperies? It would still be a nice touch to buy new bedding, even if it is a shade of gray or blue as you are "preparing" your room for someone new. The style in which you decorate doesn''t matter. The intention behind the changes you make is what counts.
Take a look at your own bedroom
Take a look at your own bedroom. If you want a serious relationship, what are you saying to the universe about yourself through the colors of your bedding, decorating themes and the shape of your closets and drawers? Do you have artwork on the wall that is of a woman standing alone looking at the ocean, or is the woman sitting alone on a park bench? Do you have only one end table beside the side of the bed that you sleep on? You may want to consider putting one on the other side too, inviting that other person in. Are you starting to see that what you have around you speaks volumes about what you believe about yourself and what you think is possible?
You may be wondering if the "pink" work its magic. Did someone new come into my life? Of course the color pink doesn''t possess powers that mysteriously draws people to you. However, when you focus on a goal with a clear intention, you will draw energy to that goal. Plain and simple, it is the law of the universe. You will be assisted in achieving the goal and the "pink" can work to help you. The same Feng Shui principal applies to whatever you want in life, a new career, more money, better health and so on. By the way, I met my husband one week after I put the pink bedding on my bed and made my other changes. You decide for yourself if you would like to "think pink" to change your life.
Bev Marshall is a certified Feng Shui consultant and successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying bedspreads, mattresses, baby bedding and more. Her many articles can be found at http://www.bedding-4u.com. She gives information and tips at http://www.bedding-4u.com/Comforters.htm to help you save money, make informed buying decisions and common sense ideas for changing your life.', 160, 'If You?re Looking for Bedding, Think ?Pink?, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'If You?re Looking for Bedding, Think ?Pink? plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:52 AM | | 0 Comments
Bedding is Fashion for the Bed
Ladies, we spend a lot of time in the morning getting ready for the day. We take showers, put on makeup, blow dry our hair and put on just the right outfit we feel good in. Then we top it off with the hot colors of accessories from sunglasses to sandals - the details of what we wear matters in how we look and feel. Maybe it shouldn''t be that way, but it is. You can think of your bedding as fashion for the bedroom because you dress your bed just as clothing and accessories dress your body. The little details we put in our bedrooms such as vintage rag rugs, beaded lampshades, hand crocheted pillowcases or satin sheets will make all the difference of how we feel as we spend time in our bedrooms.
A bedroom is a place to feel safe, comfortable and cocooned as we sleep at night. I like the bedroom to be an expression of who I am as well as that of my husband. I don''t want it to be all cabbage rose, salmon pink and lace because that doesn''t make my husband feel too comfortable. He isn''t exactly the cabbage rose type. However, it also doesn''t have to be golfing, fishing and rustic log furniture either. We can compromise on a majestic leaf pattern with just a small floral touch. I use deeper colors of blue and green mixed with a sophisticated plaid and stripe for the bed linen. I love to mix all the patterns together and it turns out great. If you have never done that before you might find it a little tricky, but you will be okay if you stick to the same hue in the same color families. We live in the north woods so our colors are stronger, rustic and outdoors. There is a nice blend and flow throughout the home. Doesn''t it make sense to begin with colors inside that reflect the great outdoors, striking a balance between the two? I am surrounded by pine trees and a beautiful lake. I feel serene and happy when I take those same colors and make a beautiful room to spend my private time.
Take a cue from the great outdoors If you are confused about where to begin when it comes to decorating the bedroom or other parts of the house, take a cue from the outdoors. Stand at one of the windows from inside a room and look out. What do you see happening in your backyard? Do you have a blue swimming pool or is your garden filled with yellow marigolds? Does your lawn look like green velvet or do you have earthy shades from rocks and stone? Do you love the cold strength of black wrought iron patio furniture or do you prefer bold awning stripes? You can begin to get the idea of how the inside can reflect the outdoors or vise versa.
You want your whole family to feel as comfortable in their bedrooms as you do. If you pay attention to details of bed linens, color, furnishings and small personal touches for your kid''s rooms, they will feel like they are special, and they may even clean the room a little more often. For example, your baby''s bedding could look cute and cuddly, the colors and patterns for kids can be bright, fun and whimsical. It doesn''t matter what size of mattress you or your kids have, the mattresses must all afford comfort. The goal of every bedroom is to have linens that are beautiful, easy to take care of, and mattresses that are comfortable to sleep on. If the room is dressed right, you will feel good while you are in it. You might consider just adding a duvet cover for a quick change over the tired comforter. I have taken old fitted sheets that were worn and placed them on the windows for an instant dramatic valance. Be creative when it comes to your personal style and get the kids involved. You don''t have to be extremely crafty to just get some fabric paint and let them design their own sheets. Isn''t it kind of boring to always buy what is shown to you in catalogs or retail stores? Place a table you had in the living room at your bedside and put a family quilt on it. Use solid velvet throw pillows that you haven''t had out in a while and add a few baubles to them or stitch a lace handkerchief to the top.
Take what you already own and just put it somewhere else in a new way. Divide all of your little collectibles into piles by color. Never prejudge something that you think is strictly for the kitchen, or just for a bathroom. If you look at the small knickknacks with fresh eyes you might be surprised at how warm a room can be just by using the play of color. I love using things in an unexpected way. Don''t limit these ideas to the bedroom. Your whole house can be spruced up with a quick change by just moving around the pieces you already own. Another trick is to keep the small items all together in one spot. Don''t try to spread the small things out to cover space. You will make much more of a statement if you keep them together because there is strength in numbers.
Know your priorities before you buy
Do you prefer your bedding to be 450 thread count Egyptian cotton, or an easy no fuss fiber blend? Do the mattresses need to have a thick 100% cotton mattress pad? Are you looking for the most high tech mattress on the market? Do you want the baby''s bedding to be the softest available or is the cute factor more important? Do you want to be surrounded by fancy luxury or casual chic? Have a good idea of what you are looking for before you start making buying decisions. You are dressing your bedrooms in fashion just as you would your body. Don''t be afraid to experiment a little, and use the things you already own for a fresh look.
Bev Marshall is a successful freelance writer Aromatherapist and Feng Shui consultant offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying bedding, mattresses, and baby bedding. Her many articles can be found at http://www.bedding-4u.com. She gives information and tips at http://www.bedding-4u.com/Duvet%20Covers.htm to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.', 160, 'Bedding is Fashion for the Bed, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Bedding is Fashion for the Bed plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:51 AM | | 0 Comments
Eclectic Patio Furniture Shows Your Style
Your home''s interior is exquisitely decorated in your favorite style; why not treat your exterior with patio furniture and accessories that will be comfortable as well as beautiful. Your backyard becomes more functional by adding gas grills, or furnishing options such as casual hammocks or formal wrought iron. You are limited only by your imagination. The patio furniture does not have to be limited to one style. A backyard looks great if you mix it up with an eclectic flare. You don''t have to decide between rigid cedar and a quilted hammock, or a built in gas grill and a fire pit. You can have it all. Do you want your patio to have a casual feeling or one that is more formal? This may depend on the style of home you have. A full log home may not be served well with antique white wicker furniture on the porch or patio. A contrast is good, but the balance isn''t quite right. The white wicker seems too light and airy against the heavy logs. An Adirondack style of furniture might strike a better balance for the home. Is a specific material of importance to you such as teak, rattan, or wrought iron? Do you prefer patio cushions, or the natural look of wood as with Adirondack chairs? A gas grill or outdoor fireplace can be a focal point creating an outdoor kitchen. If relaxation is the most important to you, a hammock or patio swing would be a nice choice.
Do you like to entertain outdoors? There is a wide variety of outdoor furniture that creates the perfect party atmosphere. Do you enjoy cooking on a gas grill and showing off your favorite recipes to your friends and family? How about a relaxing lunch shaded from the sun under a decorative patio umbrella while the kids are napping in a rope hammock? You can create the look and feel you want by just a while. Make sure they are weather resistant in one of the newer fabrics that are on the market today. Sunbrella? is a wonderful fabric that fights mold and mildew from the elements. It comes in nice colors and fun stripes. You might like a webbed design that is also very comfortable, just a different look from the cushions. If I am sitting on a hard cut log bench or cold wrought iron, I definitely need a cushion for comfort. I also like to mix up the furniture with some bar height chairs and bistro table. You create some interest if all of the furniture is not the same height. If you have a pool, that may also influence your style of outdoor furniture. You may want a material such as PVC that is easy to dry off if it gets wet.
Choosing the right furniture for your patio is an important decision. Just like the interior, your outdoor furnishings are also an investment. Unless you buy an inexpensive plastic webbed chair from a discount store, you will want to use your furniture for many seasons. Look at magazines and follow your own personal style. You will then be able to make a buying decision that creates the perfect outdoor living room that fits the style of home and your personality.
Bev Hlavka is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying patio furniture, gas grills, picnic tables and more. Her many articles can be found at http://www.patio-furniture-4u.com. She gives information and tips at http://www.patio-furniture-4u.com/Picnic%20Tables.htm to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.', 160, 'Eclectic Patio Furniture Shows Your Style, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Eclectic Patio Furniture Shows Your Style plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:50 AM | | 0 Comments
Outdoor Kitchens ? Simple and Sophisticated
After September 11, many of us decided to stay closer to home. We are electing to remodel our existing homes instead of buying new and moving. We are also entertaining in the backyard more than ever, so it is a natural progression to take what we love about our hearth and home and put it all outside creating the perfect outdoor room. If you have never thought of installing an outdoor kitchen before, it is time you start thinking about it. You don''t need a backyard the size of Southfork to create an efficient, fun outdoor kitchen of your very own.
When it comes to designing an outdoor kitchen, the sky''s the limit. Everyone can have gas or charcoal grill at any price in their backyard. When you think about adding a wine cooler, outdoor sink, appliances and bars, you are talking about something altogether different. You are only limited by your imagination, and for most of us, the budget. What type of entertaining do you enjoy? Do you have a large family? What is your favorite method of outdoor cooking? Is food preparation more of a priority or do your friends like to sit around the bar and socialize? Do you have a pool or hot tub that you want to incorporate into the area? Would you like to build around a focal point such as a fieldstone fireplace? If music is a consideration, what about an outdoor sound system? If you live in a hot climate such as Arizona, should outdoor misters to be part of the plan? If ease of cleanup is an issue, do you want something that can be cleaned with a garden hose? Would you like a gazebo or some type of partial screening for privacy and weather protection? As you can see, there are a lot of things to think about during the design process. You want to consider all of your options before you make decisions because things may not be the easiest to change midstream.
An Outdoor Kitchen Northwood''s style My husband and I live on a lake in the north woods so the outdoor kitchen plans started with how our guests could best enjoy the beautiful lake view as we were cooking and entertaining. We have a boathouse and many tall pines and white birch trees that must be considered in the plans. I wanted a dramatic entrance of well-lit timbered stairs leading from my home down to the outdoor kitchen area which encompasses a patio of cut flagstone. We don''t have room for an outdoor fireplace, but every lake home needs a fire pit, and ours is set in another section of the yard that we use more for fun and late night conversation. We have a copper fire pit on the patio for warmth and ambiance on a cool Wisconsin evening. We decided to take advantage of the boathouse and extend it out as partial protection from the elements for the cooking station. My husband prefers cooking with gas so we installed a built-in grill with warming burners. We have a sink and refrigerator close at hand, also protected by the extension of the boathouse.
My patio is filled with Adirondack style patio furniture. We have a rope hammock swinging between two tall pines. A wonderful bistro table and chairs sits close to the cooking area so we don''t have to carry the food very far and an outdoor bar is near the refrigerator so it''s close to ice and drinks. We have a gentle slope down to the lake that is terraced with perennials for color and foliage. More split timbers were placed for extra seating as part of the patio''s backdrop. We installed lights below the trees so our yard would be lit in the evening, creating a festive mood for parties. Our guests enjoy waving as the boaters go by, or finding out how the fishing is for the day. There is so much entertainment on the lake; even if it is just watching the mallards or loons swim by for an occasional visit.
You don''t have to live in the Northwoods to have a beautiful outdoor kitchen. You can install something right next to the house or close to a pool. You can make your outdoor entertaining experience as elaborate or simple as you wish. Just think about how nice it would be inviting your friends over to enjoy your famous barbecue ribs under the stars or relaxing on a warm summer day realizing how good life can get.
Bev Hlavka is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying patio furniture, gas grills, picnic tables and more. Her many articles can be found at http://www.patio-furniture-4u.com. She gives information and tips at http://www.patio-furniture-4u.com/Outdoor%20Kitchens.htm to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.', 160, 'Outdoor Kitchens ? Simple and Sophisticated, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Outdoor Kitchens ? Simple and Sophisticated plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:49 AM | | 0 Comments
Spring Into Action: Home Maintenance
Spring has sprung! Even more important than buds, birds, and bees, spring brings buyers! When buyers are looking for a place to nest, they would really rather not see problems. As it turns out, nearly every home inspected has problems or imperfections of some sort or size. Most issues are very minor and simple to correct. Almost all are a result of deferred maintenance.
Most of these simple deferred maintenance problems, when discovered during the home inspection, cause the majority of the headaches when trying to bring a contract to close. With the five quick checks described below it is probable that 90% or more of the minor maintained items typically discovered in the home inspection could be eliminated, and with them a great portion of the time and stress associated with their correction:
- Dirty Filter and Coils in the Heat Pump. The clean and efficient flow of conditioned air as well as the longevity of this very expensive system is dependant on proper airflow. A professional cleaning is most always well under $100. Routine filter replacement can be done by a homeowner for about a dollar.
- Poor Caulking of Ceramic Tile in the Tub and Shower Area. The cost to repair or replace a rotted shower wall often exceeds thousands of dollars. This is an avoidable event! A homeowner can accomplish caulking of tiled areas easily for under $20. If a crack in the caulk or grout is visible, you can believe it''s large enough for water to pass!
- Amateur Workmanship. When something looks like an amateur did it, that means an amateur did it, even if the perpetrator was paid for his work! When amateurs do things, the materials are often improper for the intended purpose or of poor quality. Many times they are both. Seldom are proper permits pulled or inspections performed when work is performed by amateurs. Amateur work is also difficult to maintain. Amateur work and the people who perform it always complicate a closing.
- Wood Rot. Closing contracts sure would be simpler without wood rot. It sure would be nice to see a home listed that said "clear WDO on file". Consider doing the WDO inspection at the time of listing to greatly reduce the greatest challenge in Florida real estate.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) not Properly Functioning. GFCI''s are the electrical outlets that have the "press" and "test" buttons. These devices are critically important in reducing the chance for electrocution. The homeowner can test the devices by pushing the "test" button. The cost of a new GFCI is less than $10. They can be installed in less than 10 minutes.
The act of selling real estate can be made simpler, more enjoyable, and more profitable by educating buyers and sellers about preventative maintenance. Spring is a time of renewal - renew your interest in home care and take a few simple steps to keep safe, comfortable, and ready for some summer sun!
Wally Conway is President of Florida HomePro Inspections, and has been featured regularly on HGTV''s "House Detective". Wally has recently written a book entitled "Secrets of the Happy Home Inspector", available at GoHomePro.com or Amazon.com. As a speaker, writer, instructor, and host of The Happy Home Inspector radio show every Saturday at 3 PM on WOKV 690, Wally blends the right amount of up-to-date information with just the right amount of humor, insight, motivation, and real-world application. Visit WallyConway.com for more information!', 160, 'Spring Into Action: Home Maintenance, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Spring Into Action: Home Maintenance plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:41 AM | | 0 Comments
Home Improvement for The Ladies!
Your Own Homes Improvement Outline
(One for the Ladies)
Let me begin by saying what a home improvement plan will not do! I have seen this happen more than once, so I will say this now. A home improvement project, addition, upgrade, remodel, or makeover will not make up for a troubled marriage. So for those that think home improvement may save a marriage, I''m telling you now that it will add more stress and it is a poor substitute for proper counseling.
With that said, when you see a home being sold due to a divorce, take a good look at the house because you may see evidence of a great remodel job. However, the marriage still failed. The scenario above leads into other areas of home remodel, acquisition and selling points. Gentlemen, pay attention here! It is generally recognized that women are responsible for 80% of all decisions on whether or not to purchase a particular home.
So what influences the ladies in their decisions concerning home purchases and remodeling? By far the two biggest items are the kitchen and the bath. If I had to choose one or the other, I believe I would look at which area was in need of the remodel more, while at the same time looking at the costs of both options.
As for the men, what do they want? They would be happy with a large garage/workshop plus a secluded den or office to carry on with business or to retreat to the solitude of a "cave." Men, as we can see, really don''t spend as much time feathering the nest so as a result we see that contrary to popular belief, men really tend to follow the female''s lead.
Generally speaking, you''ll find that men don''t pay much attention to draperies, window treatments, flower boxes, state of the art appliances, Jacuzzi tubs, well-lit bathrooms, large closets or floral patterns of any kind. They often prefer brown and gray everything, with a big garage, a shed, a sprinkler system and a privacy fenced back yard for barbeques and lounging in private. Men also like low maintenance houses so they aren''t constantly being asked to fix or repair things. If left up to the men to decide, you would find that faucets, toilets, sinks, baths, floors, mirrors, cabinetry, appliances and furnishings would tend to be favored by their industrial strength qualities as opposed to beauty.
Those are general observations and many times they will not apply. However, by keeping them in mind and using the 80/20 rule, they may help in the decision making process. So now using what we know, it would be wise to slant your remodel towards the light and bright feminine side of life. It seems to make sense that if the women are the decision makers then we should let them decide on what really needs attention first!
Let''s look at the kitchen first. Can you paint or refinish the cabinetry and change the knobs and handles to get the new look? Would new Formica laminate over the old counter tops with a matching backsplash do the trick? Maybe a white ceramic sink with a new faucet will achieve the desired effect. Quite possibly you may decide to rip it all out. If that is the case, then paint the walls and consider tiling the floor also. Often times, adding some minor electrical and lighting upgrades will help transform and modernize the entire effort. Don''t forget the new built in dishwasher and plumbing as well.
Custom cabinets, if designed, built and installed by a local reputable cabinetmaker with references and a picture book of previous work done, are often very attractive in price and quality. I use craftsmen with low overhead who work on one job at a time. Often I will ask them to make, in addition to the kitchen, a base cabinet for the bathroom to match, all for one low price. When working with kitchens I always look to see if a wall can be opened up to create a pass through or bar stool counter top. This lets in more light and allows the person in the kitchen to talk with and see the people in the adjoining room. It also creates the effect of a more spacious kitchen.
The bottom line is that a well-lit, light, bright and spacious kitchen, well equipped with modern appliances, plenty of storage space and decorative tiles, paint and window treatments, will add value and appeal to any home''s remodel plan.
Next, lets look at remodeling the bathroom. Here again, we look to the feminine side as the women seem to spend more time here then the men. So with the ladies in mind concerning the upgrade, I will often bite the bullet and rip it all out, the tub being the only exception! If I can leave the tub in, the job is easier, faster and cheaper. However, if I am looking at an olive green or yellowed chipped up and rusting ceramic eyesore, than a new fiberglass insert with a sliding glass door is going on my list of items to buy at the local Home Depot.
Jet tubs are the in thing, so I won''t rule them out as a possible upgrade. This decision again is based on the female as most men don''t take candlelit bubble baths or require a pulsating massage. Walls are painted with Sherwin Williams semi-gloss paint which creates an excellent moisture barrier to the walls. With regard to walls, by adding tile or laminate half-wall wainscoting to the lower three to four feet of the wall, you''ll add a nice touch. Since you have torn out the old toilet and base cabinet, now is also the perfect time to rip up the old vinyl and put down ceramic floor tile before the new fixtures are installed. New lighting, mirrored vanity cabinets, G.F.I. electrical outlets, wallpaper borders, towel rings and bars are usually the finishing touch. Even a man can appreciate coming home to a spacious, clean, modern, functional and aesthetically pleasing kitchen and bath. One final note here: Be sure to caulk everything when you''re through. You''ll want to protect your new investment from rotting, from the inside out. Dampness and wood eating insects are your homes worst enemies.
Now with the kitchen and bath out of the way, what do you feel is next? I myself spend on average about seven hours a day in the bedroom, so I tend to go there next. Once again, the closet is of importance to the ladies so I will look to paint that bright white, upgrade the lighting and install a closet organizing system to maximize the space that is available. A tip for the guys! Put in a shoe rack for the ladies, as most of you wouldn''t even think about that little upgrade.
Once the closet is done, I''m back patching and painting the rest of the room. Another smart thing you can do is to let the female decide on what color of Sherwin Williams brand satin super paint they would like to have applied. I always make sure I get enough paint to do the ceiling as well because when you''re on your back, you will be looking at it. Once the walls and ceiling are done, the ceiling fan with light kit and dimmer switch go in. Then the baseboards are prepared for installation before the carpet goes down. Usually I paint them a shade darker than the walls and tack them to the wall about one-half inch above the floor.
Now that the paint is put away, it''s time to install the plush carpet and a dense quality pad beneath it. In order to really bring the room together you will need to take a paint swatch or chip to the carpet dealer to choose the carpet color that really sets off the walls and base board trim. As for final touches, those include mini blinds, a curtain, and decorative switch plates and receptacle covers. A solid core door represents today''s modern standards with a keyed lock set for security, so I will add that factor in too. Just add candles and you''re done!
As for the rest of the house, I will choose one-color paint and use it throughout all the remaining areas that are to be lightened and brightened. Earth tone, eggshell or tan sand colors are a neutral favorite of many, so unless you have a floor that is going to clash with it, earth tones are a safe bet. Speaking of floors, I will follow appraisal rules that tell me wood is better than carpet, except in bedrooms. And tile is better than vinyl. With that in mind, I will use tile and Pergo flooring everywhere else. Once the tile and wood are installed, I never have to replace it and maintenance is a breeze. The appraiser also looks upon wood and tile as an upgrade, so at the earliest opportunity, they are getting incorporated in my plans.
There you have it! A general Joe homeowner remodel job, but what about the infamous addition? With this consideration, you''ll have many more options to weigh, so let''s take a look at some of the pros and cons of adding square footage.
When does it make sense to add square footage?
#1. Is it physically possible, legally permissible, and financially feasible? Will the new addition serve your intended purpose to the maximum extent?
#2. Does the current floor plan, layout or design of your home allow for a smooth flowing traffic pattern in, out and through the proposed addition?
#3. Will your lot size accommodate a larger dwelling and will the neighborhood surrounding your home support the higher value that you expend?
#4. How long do you intend to stay in the house that this upgrade is planned for? Five years from now, will the addition return, dollar for dollar, the money you have spent to the sales price of the home if you sold it?
#5. Are you prepared to deal with draftsmen and plans development, contractors, building officials and permits? Will you mind living on a construction site for about 6 months? Are your finances in place with an additional 10% set aside for cost overruns? Has everyone agreed upon what this addition should look like and the purpose it will serve?
Let us say you have considered the above and would like to continue towards the improvement. From here, we should consider the economic principle of what is called progression. Example: You have a 2-bedroom, 1-bath home, located in a neighborhood of more expensive 3-bedroom, 2-bath homes. In this case you could, with more certainty, add another bedroom and bath and expect to be able to realize or achieve the value from the addition''s expense as the more expensive homes around you will tend to pull the value of your home up along with theirs.
Now the reverse is also true, so you must consider the opposite case that is called the principle of regression. That says that if you over-improve beyond the value of the homes that are surrounding you, then those lower value homes will tend to keep the value of your home in the lower price ranges. So putting it another way, try not to pass the point of diminishing returns. In essence, saying that you can only improve so much before you reach a point where, for every dollar you spend, you will receive less of that same dollar back when you sell.
A good rule of thumb to use is to try to get at least two dollars of increased value for every dollar you spend. Once you begin to approach "break-even," then you should consider maintaining what you have as opposed to adding to it. A simple way to say it: Don''t over-improve!
Another watchword to know is super-adequacy. That would be like putting gold faucets in a mobile home. It''s overkill and too high-end for the properties overall value, so the final decision on remodeling and additions comes down to balance and a happy medium being reached. Also, take into consideration the cost, aggravation, the net gain, the need for improvement, the improved quality of life, the suitability to all occupants taste, needs and desires and in the end the ability to receive a higher sales price.
I choose to remodel more often than add-on because it goes much faster and the profits role in quicker too. If I need more space to live in, I simply remodel the house I''m in and rent it out for top dollar, and then get an equity line to buy a bigger house! When remodeling my own home I will attempt to do everything myself, aside from building cabinets or rewiring electrical circuits. As with everything else, if I get in over my head, I will concede defeat and call in an expert to finish what I started while I learn where I went wrong by watching them finish it up.
Here are a few parting shots that you may or may not know:
Painting everything inside and out is the greatest value producing improvement that you can make on a dollar for dollar return basis. When painting, ensure you buy the absolute best paint available, as it is true that the expense of painting lays in the application of the paint not the paint itself. So if you have to apply two coats because of an inferior watered down paint then the cost just doubled in time and the added paint needed to get the job done.
This next tip alone will save you the cost of this entire book and here it is. Without naming any names, whether it be the manufacturer or the distributor of the product, there is a problem out there with what used to be considered top brand, quality paints. It has been said that some manufacturers have thinned out their paint and left their good name on, all in the name of allowing certain retailers the ability to sell hundreds of thousands of gallons a month at what appears to be a bargain price. Unfortunately, the consumer is fooled by the name and ends up coming back for more paint when they find that it takes more of the thinned out product to get complete coverage.
I, for one, as you can well see by now, am a real fan of Sherwin Williams brand, super paint. This blend is so superior in my mind to any other paint available to the little guy, that I refuse to use anything else. I have applied it to exterior walls located in the worst conditions and climates and ten years later its still as good as the day I put it on. The elasticity, color and protection are still in place with absolutely no chalking, cracking or deterioration of any kind, The same goes for interior paint as well. The coverage and wash ability are unmatched!
I also would like to say Sherwin Williams has not paid me to say one word of this. It is for your sole benefit that I harp on it to the degree that I do, as it burns me to no end to see trusting people get ripped off and not even know it!
But wait! It gets even worse. As if to add insult to injury, the retailers don''t really even shoot for the highest profit margin on the paint. They make their profit when you start buying all the tape, rollers, trays, brushes, handles, scrapers, sand paper, buckets, screens and new fangled gadgetry along with a host of other products that may be required to finish all phases of the job at hand.
Has anyone ever told you that? If you doubt it, take a viscosity cup and run the super paint through it and then do the same with the other paint. After this test, you will need no further proof of which paint is going to save you time and money in the long run.
Well, enough said. I hope you get the point on paint. Now another thing you can do to improve your home substantially is landscape it. Landscaping, if done right, can add up to 30% to the value of your home. I prefer to plant shrubbery and low maintenance hardy plants and trees of all types. A few flowers to add color and my job is done.
Back to the addition. If you decide to add a room or two, it has also been proven that you can save about 30% here too by being your own contractor. I would encourage you to get a book titled, "How to Be Your Own Contractor," as it will often take an entire book to give you a proper grounding on the subject. Just know this! It is entirely within your realm of ability to tackle the over site and scheduling that you would pay that 30% to the general contractor to do. If you feel up to the task, get a book and be vigilant. In the end, you will have that new addition at a significantly lower price.
Dan Auito is a dual-licensed real estate agent and appraisal assistant. Founder of a non-profit drug prevention corporation, a real estate consulting group and is the author of "Magic Bullets Real Estate." This 300-page power-packed book (due out in late Sept 2004 comes with a website that further supports its readers.
Please visit with the family at http://www.magicbullets.com we look forward to seeing you!', 160, 'Home Improvement for The Ladies!, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Home Improvement for The Ladies! plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:13 AM | | 0 Comments
Designing Your Log Home: Tips To Keep You Out of Trouble
Nearly every log home is a custom design, whether you are altering a stock plan or starting from scratch. By their very nature, custom floor plans open up a large number of untested challenges - especially if you are trying to design the house yourself. With almost all log home manufacturers, an in-house architect will take your design and turn it into a set of drawings that conform to their building system. Your home will be structurally sound. However, don''t necessary expect them to point out every inconvenience or snafu in your design. This is a hands-on business, and in the end, your house design is on you... and you''ll have to live with it. Here are a few pointers I can suggest to make your design more efficient.
MECHANICALS: Open floor plans are the essence of the modern log home. They make a home feel larger, and keep the cook from feeling isolated. However, if you have a second floor you need to consider how you are going to get the plumbing, the electric and the ductwork (both supply and return) to the upstairs rooms. You won''t be using the exterior walls for that, so you need to create enough interior walls downstairs to fit all the mechanicals. Each object in all likelihood will take its own space between the 2x4s. Even if you use radiant-floor heating, you''ll need ductwork for the air conditioning. There are some systems that use high-pressure ductwork much smaller in diameter than conventional ducts, so there are other possibilities if you are pressed for space. But the best solution is to think ahead. If you''re tempted to use an interior full-log wall (or none at all), you may be sacrificing an opportunity to get more ductwork upstairs.
PLUMBING: The wisest floor plans are the ones that try to keep the bathrooms together (either back-to-back or one directly above the other) and the shortest runs on the plumbing. This can''t always be done, but when placing the upstairs bathroom, try to line it up with an interior downstairs wall. This way the plumbing doesn''t have to snake all over the place.
CLOSETS: I would venture to guess that log homes are usually notoriously short on closet space. I know my home is. First of all, it would be a terrible waste to put a closet against an exterior log wall. Why hide your beautiful logs? And because we try to keep the square footage down to a minimum, it almost seems a crime to waste precious space on closets. However, there''s more than one reason to include them. Not only do we seem to collect more stuff as we get older, but by law in several states the closet determines whether a room is a bedroom or an office. This could affect the resale (or refinancing) of your house. Here is a suggestion: put two closets side-by-side on the wall separating two rooms; the closets may not be huge, but it doesn''t change the shape of the rooms. Try to include a coat closet near your front door.
WINDOWS: As I''m sure you''ve already read many times, you can''t have too many windows in a log home. The wood sucks up the light like a sponge. If you have a large empty wall, the insertion of a window near the peak not only lets in more light, it adds character. Some people add windows along either side of a shed dormer. In my case, I had to move the roof line to increase the size of my bedroom window, because by code it needed to be 6'' square for egress. In any upstairs bedroom you''ll need your windows to be large enough to climb out in case of fire. Also remember that too many direct-set windows will decrease the amount of air flow to your upstairs. In my house I added an awning (a small hinged window) to the bottom of stationery windows in my dormers. This helped let air in, but even so the rooms can be stuffy. A ceiling fan helps, but ultimately I may need to add a skylight to create a draft.
KITCHEN VENT: One of the more difficult decisions we made concerned how to vent the range hood. If you don''t want your stove to be on an exterior wall, you are going to have an interesting puzzle. Will you run the exhaust duct between the floor joists to the exterior? Will the run be so long you''ll have to add another fan? I gave in and moved my stove to the exterior wall, but then we had to cut a hole in the logs for the vent. Horrors! How do you hide that? My builder built a little cedar box around the hole and we were lucky enough to have a porch roof underneath, so you can''t see it from every direction. Still, this ugly vent is on the front of the house, and had I thought of it, I may have moved the kitchen to the back of the house.
CRAWL SPACE vs. BASEMENT: There are many reasons to opt for a crawl space rather than a basement - none of them particularly comfortable. Aside from the obvious disadvantages of a crawl space, there are a few things we didn''t think of. I, in my blissful ignorance, didn''t give any thought to the ugly electrical panel. Of course, I knew we''d have meters and a panel, but I didn''t think of where they were going. What I didn''t know was that by code, we couldn''t put the panel in the crawl space. Since we don''t have a garage, the electrical panel was installed in one of our rooms on the log wall. Isn''t that lovely? Another disadvantage of the crawl space: you''ll need a short water heater if that''s where it is going, and you may need to purchase a horizontal-mount furnace. Because our water quality was poor, we had to install a purification system. This 54" unit must be mounted upright, and our crawl space is 48" tall. We had to punch a hole through the concrete floor to make room for the unit.
GUTTERS: Yes, you want to get the water away from your log home at all costs. There can be challenges; we have an alpine-style home with a vaulted ceiling. However, the roof comes to a deep V on the corners that create a magnificent rain chute. This is not necessarily wonderful when it dumps onto your deck! Because of the generous overhang that comes with a log home, the end of that V projects far from the walls and doesn''t make a logical angle from which to hang a downspout. On one corner I satisfied myself with an old-fashioned rain barrel, and on the deck side we had to divert the water to the pergola we built against the house, and ran a gutter along the edge of the pergola.
OVERHANGS: You should have at least a 1'' foot and preferably a 2'' overhang to protect your logs. This overhang needs to be taken into consideration when designing your roof line. If you have overlapping angles, make sure you are not creating a water trap or a snow trap. There are times your overhang might bump into another angle of the roof. You may actually have to raise part of the roof a little to make clearance.
DOOR SWINGS: This can be one of the most annoying errors you can make and not catch until too late. Think of what your door is covering when opened all the way. Is it covering another doorway? Will two doors bang together? If you are in a tight space, will it open all the way at all? When we installed our bathroom vanity, we didn''t think about the door swing until the plumbing was already hooked up. The door cleared the vanity by one whole inch; it could have been worse. You can compensate by swinging the other way (before it''s already hung, or your hinges will be on the wrong side). Or, in the design phase you can use a narrower door. Or get a smaller vanity.
ELECTRICAL: The electrical and plumbing layout will not come from your log home architectural drawings. The manufacturer is not concerned about where you put your outlets. Once the plans are firmed up, the time will come for you to sit down with the electrician and mark exactly where you want your outlets, switches and light fixtures. Local code will determine the minimum distance between outlets, but anyone will tell you to put in more than you need; eventually you will probably use them anyway. Even if you don''t need it, put your cable and telephone into every room; it''s so much easier and cheaper to do it up front. Also remember, you can''t ever have too many lights in a log home. Plan ahead for those fixtures - especially the ones in the ceiling. They will not be pretty to add later on.
DEAD SPACE: If you are building a huge log home, you''ve got so much space it doesn''t really matter. But for most of the rest of us, every inch counts. There are some approaches that might maximize your floor space. First of all, do you really need hallways? Some space-saving designs arrange the rooms so they all open into a small hallway. I prefer none at all. Also, consider that every closet door creates dead space. If you can arrange your floor plan so that closet door swings into a place which is already dead (for instance, another closet door or a foyer), you might open up the room a bit. Does your loft serve a purpose or is it merely an open hallway from room to room? Can you put a piece of furniture on it? If not, perhaps it would serve to give it an angle and make your "open to below" space a little smaller.
Hopefully I''ve helped a little bit. I learned many of these tips the hard way, and I''m sure there are plenty more I haven''t bumped into yet. After all, a custom home is one giant learning curve.
Mercedes Hayes is a Hiawatha Log Home dealer and also a Realtor in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. She designed her own log home which was featured in the 2004 Floor Plan Guide of Log Home Living magazine. You can learn more about log homes by visiting http://www.JerseyLogHomes.com.', 160, 'Designing Your Log Home: Tips To Keep You Out of Trouble, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Designing Your Log Home: Tips To Keep You Out of Trouble plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:09 AM | | 1 Comments
Repairing Your Own Machine Components
Many industrial concerns have workshops of their own. For the repair of worn shafts, the lathe machine is excellent. Keyway slots can be machined by using a milling machine, while a shaping machine can do machining of large flat areas. A drilling machine does drilling of holes.
A skilled Maintenance Engineer should know how to use all these machines in order to make his own repairs in a safe manner. Very often he has to supervise machinists. The information below should be useful for that purpose.
Lathe Machine
The lathe machine uses a single-point-cutting tool for a variety of turning, facing, and drilling jobs. Excess metal is removed by rotating the work piece over the fixed cutting tool to form straight or tapered cylindrical shapes, grooves, shoulders and screw threads. It can also be used for facing flat surfaces on the ends of cylindrical parts.
The work piece is clamped onto a horizontal rotating shaft by a 3-jaw or 4-jaw chuck. The latter chuck can be used to cut off-centered cylinders. The rotating horizontal spindle to which the chuck is attached is usually driven at speeds that can be varied.
The cutting tool is fixed onto a tool rest and manipulated by hand. It can also be power driven on straight paths parallel or perpendicular to the work axis. This is useful for screw cutting.
Internal turning known as boring results in the enlargement of an already existing hole. The holes are more accurate in roundness, concentricity, and parallelism than drilled holes. A hole is bored with a single-point-cutting tool that feeds along the inside of the work piece.
Shaping Machine
The shaping machine is used to machine flat surfaces, grooves, shoulders, T-slots, and angular surfaces with single-point tools. The cutting tool on the shaper oscillates, cutting on the forward stroke, with the work piece feeding automatically toward the tool during each return stroke.
Drilling Machine
The drilling machine is used to cut holes in metal with a twist drill. By changing the cutting tool, they can be used to do reaming, boring, counter boring, countersinking, and threading.
Milling Machine
The milling machine uses a rotating cutting tool to cut flat surfaces, grooves, and shoulders, inclined surfaces, dovetails, and T-slots. Cutters of many shapes are changed to cut different grooves.
Cutting Tools
Metal-cutting tools are classified as single point or multiple point. The lathe and shaping machine use single point cutting tool while the milling and drilling machines use multiple-point-cutting tools.
Metal is cut either by moving the work piece like in the lathe or by moving the tool like in the shaping machine, drilling or milling machine. Clearance angles must be provided to prevent the tool surface below the cutting edge from rubbing against the work piece. Rake angles are often provided on cutting tools to cause a wedging action in the formation of chips and to reduce friction and heat.
Tool Materials
In order to remove chips from a work piece, a cutting tool must be harder than the work piece and must maintain a cutting edge at the temperature produced by the friction of the cutting action.
Carbon Steel
Carbon steel tools even though comparatively inexpensive tend to lose cutting ability at temperatures around 400 degree F (205 degree C).
High-Speed Steel
High-speed steel, containing 18 percent tungsten, 4 percent chromium, 1 percent vanadium, and only 0.5 to 0.8 percent carbon, permits the operation of tools twice or three times the speeds allowable with carbon steel
Cast Alloys
Cast-alloy cutting-tool materials containing cobalt, chromium, and tungsten are effective in cutting cast iron and retaining their cutting ability even when red hot.
Cemented Tungsten Carbide
The hardness of Tungsten Carbide approaches that of a diamond. Tungsten carbide tools can be operated at cutting speeds many times higher than those used with high-speed steel.
Oxides
Ceramic, or oxide, tool tips consist primarily of fine aluminum oxide grains, which are bonded together. These are very hard.
Cutting fluids
An overheated tool can become blunt and soft very fast. Therefore very often, cooling fluids cools the cutting points of the tool. This serves to lubricate and cool.
Water is an excellent cooling medium, but it corrodes ferrous materials. Sulfurized mineral oil is one of the most popular coolants as it can both cool as well as lubricate. The sulfur prevents chips from the work from melting on to the tip of the tool.
Move Closer To Financial Freedom!
Best selling author of the megahits Nothing Down and Creating Wealth, shares the secret of success. Generate wealth and profit over $100,000 a year - on a part time basis, working from your home, on found money - using little or none of your own money. http://www.free-marine.com/linkoneminmillionaire.htm
Many years of working experience in Marine, Facilities, Construction has given the author material for writing e-books and articles related to engineering, and management. Subscribe to facworld ezine at mailto:facworld-subscribe@yahoogroups.com More information at http://www.free-marine.com and http://www.free-engineering.com', 160, 'Repairing Your Own Machine Components, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Repairing Your Own Machine Components plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:08 AM | | 0 Comments
Expansion for Heat Absorption
In the refrigeration cycle, the refrigerant must undergo a change in state in order for the heat to be absorbed from the environment.
The refrigerant has the property of changing its state from liquid to vapor at normal room temperatures.
Have you ever felt your skin becoming cool whenever you put alcohol on it? Or even when a bit of petrol spilled onto your hands? It''s because, the alcohol or petrol has evaporated when it comes in contact with your skin.
The result - heat is removed from your skin, and it feels cool!
In a closed-loop refrigeration circuit, the change of state from liquid to vapor is achieved mechanically by pressurizing the liquid at one end and forcing it through a small opening at another end.
Once the liquid comes out from the small opening, it expands into vapor. The effect is similar to the spray you get when you restrict the outlet of your garden hose. But water is not a refrigerant. It does not feel cold because it does not change to a vapor.
Bad example. But you get the idea? Pressurized restriction causes spray at the other end.
In many refrigeration circuits, the small opening is made in the form of a thermostatic expansion valve. Many other designs make use of small capillary tubes. In big chillers, orifice plates are common.
All of them achieve the same purpose - to expand the liquid to become vapor and to cause the evaporator tubes to become cold.
Until next time?
"Tap traditional but EFFECTIVE INFORMATION!" Magazines have more information that you can use. http://www.free-marine.com/linkmagazinecity.htm
Many years of working experience in Marine, Facilities, Construction has given the author material for writing e-books and articles related to engineering, and management. Subscribe to facworld ezine at mailto:facworld-subscribe@yahoogroups.com More information at http://www.free-marine.com and http://www.free-engineering.com', 160, 'Expansion for Heat Absorption, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Expansion for Heat Absorption plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:07 AM | | 0 Comments
Measure Your Window for Verticals and Horizontal blinds, Wood blinds, Faux Wood Plantation Shutters
Here are five important things to remember.
1. Use a steel measuring tape
2. Measure to the nearest eighth of an inch - don''t round your measurments.
3. On your notes, clearly indicate which measurment is the width and which is the height. It is very common to transpose measures. Please note width first, then height.
4. Do NOT take any deductions for an inside mount. Our factory takes those allowances. You need to provide us with your exact window size opening
5. You need to provide the exact overall blind size needed for an outside mount. Our factory makes all outside mount blinds the exact width you specify.
Click here for your FREE estimate...
Choose Inside or Outside Mount:
Before taking any measurements, step back from your window and decide if you want to mount the window treatment inside the window recess or outside on the wall or moulding. For an inside mount, the window opening must have enough unobstructed depth to allow mounting.
Tip: For a flush inside mount (the blind completely recessed so that no part of the blind projects out of the opening) check that you have enough depth and make sure you request the valances be made the same width as blind since they are normally made an inch or two wider.
Tip: We usually recommend an inside mount when possible because it provides a cleaner look. However, an outside mount can make a window appear larger or hide an unattractive window. When you specify inside mount, we will make a size deduction to allow for operating clearance. We will deduct up to 1/4" from each side (on vertical blinds there is also a height deduction of 1/4"). The deductions are made so that the blind will not rub or scratch your window frame. If you specify an outside mount, we will not take any size deductions. When measuring, don''t be surprised if your windows aren''t square, it probably won''t be noticeable.
http://www.normansverticals.com', 160, 'Measure Your Window for Verticals and Horizontal blinds, Wood blinds, Faux Wood Plantation Shutters, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Measure Your Window for Verticals and Horizontal blinds, Wood blinds, Faux Wood Plantation Shutters plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:07 AM | | 0 Comments
Building or Decorating Your Home Requires House Plans
There are some things to consider when creating plans for your home. There are two situations that call for plans or blue prints, either you are building a new home or decorating your present home. The types of plans required for either situation will vary depending on the extent of your project.
When building a new home, there are several things you will want to consider carefully. The most obvious is where you are going to build your house. The climate will affect where you build. You wouldn''t build an icehouse in the middle of the desert. You will want to determine what material you will want to use. Brick, wood, and cement are popular. In the southern states clay adobe houses are the norm. In the north and other areas brick, wood, and stone are options. The climate will influence this choice as well. In areas where there is cold weather brick and cement are used because they absorb and retain heat. In the south wood frame houses are built. The size of your lot will determine the size and type of house you want. You couldn''t build a mansion on say a quarter of an acre. On the other hand a one bedroom, single floor home would look strange on a lot that is two acres or bigger. Whether your home has a basement could be important and that would depend on where you live. If you are lucky to have a basement, it can house the laundry room and your gym equipment or be a playroom/guest room.
Now that you know where and what type of climate you will be building in it is time to think about the plans. Blueprints are or have been used to draw a linear picture of the house as you see it. Now however there are computer programs that will allow you to build your house in 3-D. There are also web sites online that will also allow you to build your house and see it in 3-D. Not only that but some sites will allow you to place your furniture. There are several kinds of technical drawings that are used to create plans for a new home. There are site plans that address coding issues, landscaping, location specifics, drainage (land contours), trees, set backs, and property lines. A floor plan is a design plan of the house, the layout of the rooms, and where the windows and doors. Another type of plan is building sections, which is a cross section of the house. It helps determine any issues, visualize your finished house and floor plans using section marks. Wall sections show the construction of one exterior wall where sections are indicated with section marks. Exterior Elevations include such features as porches and decks. They also show furniture, window and door locations, eave heights and roofing. Interior elevations show the lighting layout and ceiling conditions. Porches are another very interesting option; they can be enclosed, go all the way around the house. They can also be half-enclosed and half-open. They can be reminders of times past. A huge porch reminds me of my aunt''s farm years ago. Porches are great for extending family time and conversation while still being protected from the weather.
Decisions to be made are the size of each room, the number of rooms and the number of floors to be built. Will there be a basement or a fireplace, and where is the house going to sit on the lot. You could have a front yard or the house could be in the front of the lot with a yard in the back. You could also put it right in the center and have land all around. The next consideration is whether you will have a contractor draw up the plans which will be an expense, or you can do them yourself. To do them yourself you will need a pencil or pen, scissors, a measuring tape, and graph paper with 1/4-inch boxes.
You will draw rooms to scale; one box per foot is good. Measure your rooms, doors, windows, heat and air cooling appliances. Draw the outlines of the rooms according to scale. Measure your furniture (you only need to worry about length and width here) next and take another piece of graph paper. Draw out lines of your furniture, label them and cut them out. Use these pieces to set up the rooms. When you find an arrangement you like, you can make a more permanent drawing. On another sheet of graph paper draw a box for each wall. Scale your windows, doors, built-ins and other features.
Picking a floor plan is a process of answering some very important questions. Will this place be big enough or too big in a few years? Does your design fit in with the houses in the neighborhood? Does the design of the house fit in with the lot size and shape? Will the windows provide the best view and what windows will catch the sunlight in the morning and afternoon? Will changes need to be made or can changes even be considered? Are the rooms that will be used most of the time of adequate size? Expanding your house size could mean you need to sacrifice amenities or storage space. Do you have specialty rooms such as a craft room, an office, or a gym? An office can double as a guestroom. The trend now is toward creating a family area where there is room for each to do his/her own hobby or to be together watching movies or playing games. When all the decisions are made and the plans are all drawn you will be ready to build.
Suppose now, that you are purchasing an already built home or renting an apartment. Plans can be done in these situations as well. Most places will offer a floor plan for you to look at with the measurements of the space in the rooms. If this is not available you can draw your own plan. You would need the same materials and the plan is fixed, you are limited to what is already there. Draw the outlines of each room according to scale. Take another sheet of graph paper and draw the outlines of your furniture. Label them and cut them out. You can move these pieces around till you find an arrangement you like. You might be limited with your television set because the outside antenna is in a certain spot.
Take another piece of graph paper and draw the wall sections of each room noting the windows, doors, and any heating or cooling appliance might be situated. You will have already ''placed'' your furniture so you will have a good idea of what your new home will look like. You can now decorate according to your tastes. In a rental home however, you might not be able to change wall colors or in rare cases hang pictures.
Planning for your home can be very exciting. You could be buying new furniture but you might want to consider the color of the carpets or the floors when you are choosing your pieces. A blue couch on a brown carpet does not exactly match. When planning for your home whether you buy or rent should be done carefully. Keep in mind your preferences, your limitations and if you are building, local zoning ordinances.
About the Author
Martin Smith is a successful freelance writer providing advice for home buyers and consumers on purchasing a variety of unique house plans which includes cottage plans, beach house plans, and more! His numerous articles provide a wonderfully researched resource of interesting and relevant information', 160, 'Building or Decorating Your Home Requires House Plans, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Building or Decorating Your Home Requires House Plans plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
5:06 AM | | 0 Comments
Delavays Blueberry (Vaccinium delavayi)
Whether we know it or not, most of us are familiar with the genus Vaccinium as it has among its members several current or potential commercial crops, such as blueberry, cranberry, bilberry and huckleberry. Vaccinium delavayi, however, is strictly ornamental and very unlikely to be our next export success.
The name vaccinium is an ancient one taken directly from the Latin vernacular: it was used to refer to Vaccinium myrtillus, the delightfully named whortleberry. Vaccinium delavayi takes its specific name, like so many Chinese plants, from the French Jesuit missionary Abbé Jean Marie Delavay (1838-95), who discovered the plant and introduced it to cultivation. He was also responsible for such well-known plants as Abies delavayi, Magnolia delavayi and Osmanthus delavayi reaching our gardens.
Vaccinium delavayi, a native of Burma and south-west China, is a hardy evergreen shrub with small, rounded leaves that are tough and leathery. In spring it produces clusters of small, bell-shaped to almost globular, white flowers that open from pink buds. The flowers are very much in the style of Pieris, Gaultheria, Andromeda and several other closely related genera in the erica family.
Pretty as the flowers are, the real appeal of this little blueberry lies in the deep bluish-black berries that follow. They are just like small blueberries and have a similar flavour but are rather acidic unless very ripe. Although it seems a shame to pick the berries, you might as well because the birds will have no such reservations.
While scarcely a spectacular plant, Vaccinium delavayi is attractive throughout the year and is always interesting, whether in flower, fruit or just as a neat foliage plant. It is an ideal specimen for a rockery or partially shaded corner. It grows to about 45cm high × 60cm wide and can be kept trimmed to a small mound. However, any pruning will adversely affect either the flowering or fruiting.
As any blueberry grower will tell you, Vaccinium plants prefer acidic soil conditions. The small ornamental species are most at home when grown with other erica family plants such as dwarf rhododendrons, evergreen azaleas, ericas, callunas and pieris.
The native New Zealand Gaultheria species are interesting plants to combine with Vaccinium delavayi. Gaultheria crassa, in particular, looks very like its Chinese relative and provides a good illustration of how plants that evolve under similar conditions often resemble each other despite occurring thousands of kilometres apart.
Other small native berrying plants, especially those of the epacris family, also make good companions. An alpine rockery with good berrying forms of Pentachondra pumila, Leucopogon fraseri, Cyathodes empetrifolia, Gaultheria crassa and Vaccinium delavayi would be full of interest and colour throughout the year.
You won''t find Vaccinium delavayi in every garden centre, but it shouldn''t require too much of a search to locate a specimen. Try looking in the perennials as well as among the shrubs, as it''s often sold at a very small size and tends to get lumped in with the rockery perennials.
I am a garden book author and horticultural photographer based in Christchurch, New Zealand. I run a stock photo library called Country, Farm and Garden (http://www.cfgphoto.com). This article may be re-published provided this information is published with it and is clearly visible.', 170, 'Delavays Blueberry (Vaccinium delavayi), Landscaping-Gardening, Landscaping-Gardening articles, Landscaping-Gardening information, about Landscaping-Gardening, what is Landscaping-Gardening, Landscaping & Gardening Information', 'Delavays Blueberry (Vaccinium delavayi) plus articles and information on Landscaping-Gardening
5:04 AM | | 0 Comments
Edgeworthia Chrysantha
Although it is a member of the Thymelaeaceae, the family that includes the daphnes, it would be hard to imagine a plant less like a daphne at first glance. However, if you are familiar with the deciduous Daphne genkwa, there is some hint of resemblance there.
The genus comprises three very similar species from China and Japan. It is named after Michael Pakenham Edgeworth (1812-81), a part-time botanist, plant collector and employee of the East India Company.
The plant grown in our gardens and sold in garden centres is commonly labelled E. papyrifera, which is actually a different species. There is some confusion over this, even among botanists. Apparently E. papyrifera has white flowers, not the yellow of E. chrysantha, though some botanists regard them variations of one species.
Edgeworthia chrysantha is a heavily-wooded deciduous shrub. It grows to around 1.2-1.8 m high by 1.5 m wide. Its 12.5-17.5 cm long, pointed oval leaves are soft green with prominent midribs and felted when young.
The foliage is attractive, especially when young, but this is a plant grown for its flowers. They are bright yellow aging to creamy white, tubular and about 1 cm long. Individually they are nothing much, but they are densely packed in 8 cm diameter globose heads. The are very fragrant and open until late winter from buds that have been obvious from late autumn.
The flowers are followed by dry, purplish-green berries known technically as drupes.
This is an often underrated shrub and I''d be the first to admit that it is not always instantly appealing. At first, its rather sparse growth and very heavy branches can seem grotesque. But with time these things tend to be overlooked in favour of the delicate colouring and fragrance of the flowers, and the beauty of the new foliage.
A moist, well-drained, humus-enriched soil with partial shade is best - the sort of conditions you would give your rhododendrons and camellias, or for that matter your daphnes. It is hardy to around -15°C and thrives in a cool temperate climate. Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings, aerial layers or seed.
Try Edgeworthia, it''s not difficult to grow and although bare for much of the year it has its moment of glory when flowering, and definitely has that ''weird'' appeal that makes it one for the collector.
I am a garden book author and horticultural photographer based in Christchurch, New Zealand. I run a stock photo library called Country, Farm and Garden (http://www.cfgphoto.com). This article may be re-published provided this information is published with it and is clearly visible.', 170, 'Edgeworthia Chrysantha, Landscaping-Gardening, Landscaping-Gardening articles, Landscaping-Gardening information, about Landscaping-Gardening, what is Landscaping-Gardening, Landscaping & Gardening Information', 'Edgeworthia Chrysantha plus articles and information on Landscaping-Gardening
5:01 AM | | 0 Comments
Cyclamen
Think of cyclamen and the chances are that Mothers Day immediately comes to mind, which is something of a pity. Now don''t misinterpret me, there''s nothing wrong with mothers or with having a day for them, but it does seem a little unfortunate when such beautiful, adaptable and useful plants become so commercialised that there''s difficulty escaping that association.
But no plant as beautiful as the wild cyclamen can remain so neatly packaged and presented as its cultivated forms may have it. Gardeners are always willing to experiment, to use outdoors what might be considered house plants and to seek out less widely grown but hardier species for their gardens.
Once thought to consist of many species, the genus Cyclamen is now considered to include just 19 species, some of which encompass subspecies and forms previously considered distinct. Related to the primroses, they form a few large tubers or numerous small ones, soon spreading to cover a considerable area, if happy. They occur naturally in southern Europe, neighbouring western Asia and the moister parts of North Africa with one species from Somalia, and as with many of the western Asian bulbs, corms and tubers, some species are now rare in the wild because they have been over-collected by commercial bulb gatherers and enthusiasts.
Cyclamen are generally most at home in fairly dry, partly shaded, well-drained conditions such as might be found in a rockery. Although hardiness varies with the species, if planted in well-chosen sites, all can be grown in coastal New Zealand gardens and many can be cultivated inland too. While the exact flowering time varies with the species, none bloom to any great extent in summer, the cooler months from March to October being the main season.
Common species
The best-known cyclamen is Cyclamen persicum, which is so widely cultivated as an indoor or gift plant that it usually known as the florist''s cyclamen. This species, or rather the countless cultivars or probably hybrids derived from it, is a native of the eastern Mediterranean, Libya and the islands of Rhodes and Crete. The true species, sometimes seen but often hard to differentiate from the cultivated forms, has dark green leaves heavily marbled with silver-grey and its fragrant flowers, which have reflexed petals up to 3 cm long, may be white, mauve or any shade of pink from pale to cerise. This natural variability and the ease with which it adapts to pot culture has made the plant what it is today - a universal favourite.
Cyclamen persicum is so well known that it''s fashionable to dismiss it as being too common and to look instead for less widely grown species. However, anything that is popular becomes so for a reason and you don''t have to search for the secrets to the success of the florist''s cyclamen. It has lush foliage, masses of beautiful flowers in a huge range of colours and styles, it blooms from autumn to spring and can be grown indoors or outdoors in mild climates. What else could you possibly want?
Well, perhaps you might want greater frost hardiness, more flowers with less foliage, greater sun tolerance and the kind of diminutive stature that makes the finest rockery and alpine plants so appealing. And that''s where the three species that come next in the list of the most widely grown cyclamen really shine, features not lost on the gardeners to which we often look for guidance, the British.
Cyclamen have always been popular in Britain but Cyclamen persicum rarely succeeds outdoors in the British climate. Consequently other species have been sought out and developed as garden plants. The first of these was the local Cyclamen purpurascens, from central and eastern Europe, which in its common form was formerly known as Cyclamen europaeum. This small species has marbled, rounded to ivy-like leaves and deep pink flowers that open from late summer. While still popular in British and European gardens, Cyclamen purpurascens is not commonly met with here, though its style of growth paved the way into cultivation for three species that are: Cyclamen coum, Cyclamen hederifolium and Cyclamen repandum.
Cyclamen coum
Undoubtedly my favourite, this tough little plant is found from Bulgaria and the Caucasus to the northern parts of Syria and Iran and may extend southwards into Israel. It dark leaves are small, usually 25 to 50mm wide, and are heavily marbled, with reddish undersides. The flowers are tiny too and may be white, pale pink or tending towards magenta. They open from early winter and continue unabated into spring. The flowers are remarkably resistant to frost and although they can look very downhearted when frozen, they immediately perk-up on thawing out. This is a terrific plant for rockeries or alpine troughs and is at home in sun or partial shade.
Cyclamen hederifolium
Formerly known as Cyclamen neapolitanum and still widely sold under that name, the attractively marbled, ivy-like foliage of this native of southern Europe and Turkey dies away in spring and does not reappear until well after the plant has started to flower in late summer. The small flowers occur in a wide range of shades and when spent, their stems start to coil like springs and turn downwards to the ground as the seed capsules develop.
Cyclamen repandum
This species is found from southern France to Greece and has large, lobed leaves that are dark green with conspicuous silver-grey mottling and marbling. Considering its lush foliage, spring blooming habit and Mediterranean homeland, it is surprisingly frost hardy. Its flowers are pleasantly scented, have petals up to 20mm long and occur in white and all shades of pink to light red.
These three species are so common that if you see a garden cyclamen that is obviously not Cyclamen persicum then the chances are that it''s Cyclamen coum, Cyclamen hederifolium, Cyclamen repandum or one of the subspecies or forms of those species. However, collectors and enthusiasts, being what they are, have imported other species that you may occasionally have the pleasure of seeing.
Rarities
With so few species in the genus I''m reluctant to say that any of them aren''t cultivated. Indeed, it''s very likely that they''re all in gardens - somewhere - in one form or another. But while I''ve learnt to never say never when it comes to stating what''s to be found in our gardens, I''m yet to see the Somalian species, Cyclamen somalense.
Another exclusively African species, Cyclamen africanum, from Algeria is also very rare. It has rather glossy, toothed edged leaves up to 10 cm wide and its 25mm flowers, which are deep pink and open in autumn, have the scent of violets. It is somewhat similar to Cyclamen hederifolium and along with the white- to deep pink-flowered Cyclamen ciliatum from Turkey is usually the first cyclamen to start blooming in late summer or early autumn.
Also from Africa, the Libyan Cyclamen rohlfsianum has silvery marbled bright green leaves with a covering of fine pinkish hairs when young. Its bright pink flowers open in autumn and are often scented. It dislikes winter wet and is best grown in pots with the addition of some limestone chips.
The eastern Mediterranean species: Cyclamen creticum, from Crete; Cyclamen cyprium, from Cyprus; Cyclamen graecum, from Greece, the Aegean islands and southern Turkey; and Cyclamen libanoticum, from Syria and Lebanon, are all to be seen locally, though none are common. However, because these species are becoming increasingly rare in the wild and live in areas that are threatened by that most pernicious of predators, the tourist, we should be doing our bit to ensure their survival by making them more widely available.
They are, in the main, dainty plants with small leaves and pink flowers. Cyclamen graecum has some of the most beautiful foliage in the genus. In addition to the usual silver-grey mottling, its leaves have pale to vivid green veins, maroon undersides and reddish teeth.
Cultivation
As mentioned earlier, cyclamen generally prefer partial shade, very well drained, somewhat dry soil and cool conditions. They thrive in lightly shaded rockeries, growing happily in the crevices between rocks and also adapt well to container cultivation, especially in alpine troughs. Most species have a preference for neutral to slightly alkaline conditions. Adding a few limestone chips to the soil aids the drainage and keeps the pH about right.
That said, tough species like Cyclamen hederifolium usually adapt well to being cultivated with acid soil plants such as ericas and dwarf rhododendrons, so don''t be afraid to experiment.
While a few species, such as Cyclamen libanoticum, prefer their tubers to be below the surface, in most cases the top of the tuber should be at or above the soil surface. This helps keep the tubers dry in winter and ensures that the crown of flower and foliage stems does not rot off at ground level. The tubers of indoor potted cyclamen should be kept dry - water the soil surface, not the tuber - and even then only when it has dried.
Cyclamen are not heavy feeders. Regular feeding with mild liquid fertilisers will keep house-grown cyclamen flowering well, while a light application of general garden fertiliser during the summer dormant season is enough to ensure that outdoor plants continue to thrive.
Pests and diseases are rare on healthy plants and when present are usually a sign of poor growing conditions. While slugs and snails can attack outdoor cyclamen, they should otherwise be pest-free. If indoor cyclamen show signs of botrytis, mildew of other soft rots, the soil conditions are probably too damp. If mealy bugs and scale insects occur they may indicate low humidity or may have spread from other plants that have been infested.
Propagation
Most cyclamen are bought in nurseries as ready-grown container plants intended, in the case of Cyclamen persicum, for growing indoors, or otherwise for planting out. As they grow and their tubers multiply, they can be lifted and dived when dormant.
This slow and steady method of propagation ensures a continuity of growth, but if you need to speed up your cyclamen reproduction consider propagating the plants from seed. While some of the fancy-foliaged forms must be propagated vegetatively to maintain their characteristics, most cyclamen cultivars reproduce reasonably true to type from seed and the species certainly do.
Growing from seed is quite straightforward, though you may have to wait quite some time before the first flowers appear, typically 18 months to two years. Sow the seed when ripe, usually late spring to early summer, in a fairly light, gritty soil. The temperature should be cool, around 18°C, and the seed should be lightly covered with soil. If viable, most of the seed should have germinated within 28 to 42 days. The seedlings may be pricked out into individual pots as soon as they are large enough to easily handle without damaging their fleshy stems.
I am a garden book author and horticultural photographer based in Christchurch, New Zealand. I run a stock photo library called Country, Farm and Garden (http://www.cfgphoto.com). This article may be re-published provided this information is published with it and is clearly visible.
', 170, 'Cyclamen, Landscaping-Gardening, Landscaping-Gardening articles, Landscaping-Gardening information, about Landscaping-Gardening, what is Landscaping-Gardening, Landscaping & Gardening Information', 'Cyclamen plus articles and information on Landscaping-Gardening5:00 AM | | 0 Comments
Contractor Referral
"As a contractor with 16 years of experience and speaking on behalf of professional contractors. I want people to be aware of the warning signs that they may be dealing with the wrong contractor."
Not every contractor is out to get you. The majority are honest, reputable business owners who strive to do quality work, using good materials at a reasonable cost. In fact, many of these contractors are members of associations such as the NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) or the BBB (Better Business Bureau).
For the past three years, I have conducted investigations in contractor/homeowner relations. I have heard numerous stories of why homeowners feel taken by home improvement service providers. Even though we have our own formulas on choosing a contractor the nightmare stories continue to stockpile. On the other hand, I have heard from several contractors of how they feel undercut by the competition and taken advantage of by the homeowner. Yet still, the bickering goes on.
While Mr. And Mrs. Jones wondered when there newly hired contractor would return, they would be able to use their kitchen for nothing other than a sloppy storage room. The Jones''s thought that the contractor they hired to completely remodel their kitchen was superior because he was highly recommended by a friend. They didn''t know that his license had expired along with his insurance and that he had a criminal history. They assumed that he was reputable and failed to check his credentials. So as the Jones''s wait, the contractor holds their money and left them with a completely destroyed kitchen.
How many times have we made a mistake like this and looked for someone else to blame?
After three years of research, it has been proven to me that the famous terms "contractor" and "nightmare" don''t always go hand in hand. Just as we use protection to keep our homes safe, we can use certain tools and resources for successfully screening contractors as we welcome them into our home. Typically, we teach our children to not open the door for strangers, as the same rule should take affect in interviewing a contractor.
During my research, I myself was licensed and bonded as a general contractor. I was also involved with an online contractor referral service. This online service was located in Colorado and promised homeowners in Washington State they would deliver; prescreened, pre-qualified and licensed service trades people at their request. As a contractor I was sent up to 20 job leads a day via email, for jobs I had no experience in. I accepted several of these leads and sold services, by contract, to the majority of these homeowners. At first I was quite successful until my company started to grow. Before I knew it I had an office in Mill Creek, an office staff and 12?15 employees. I was considering the development and expansion of new divisions within my company however, my mistakes were soon to be revealed. I received a phone call from a client complaining of the help that I had placed on the job and our progress. My client proceeded to tell me that my employees were taking 2 hour lunches and taking several 5-10 minute breaks a day. Later another client phoned in with the same concern. Both of these projects were finished late, as I started to focus on weeding out the spoiled help. During this process I had lost control of the remaining projects. As I was firing and disciplining the remaining staff, I was receiving at minimum of three calls a day from angry customers. I felt there was no way out. I finished the last of the projects myself and with the help of my last employee.
While my license had already expired and I was no longer insured however, I was still receiving 20 job leads a day from this same contractor referral. This contractor referral service that promised to screen contractors and deliver them to an already "in fear" public, would refer my company and others I knew who were of the same caliber, licensed or not, insured or not.
P. McDonnell http://www.gooshimo.com', 160, 'Contractor Referral, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Contractor Referral plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
3:18 AM | | 0 Comments
Heated Driveways: Who, What, Where, When, Why, & How
What are heated driveways? The obvious answer is, "a driveway that is heated," but what actually heats the driveway? The best driveway heating systems are radiant heating systems, similar to indoor floor heating systems. There are primarily two methods for heating, electric and hydronic. Electric systems use a line-voltage cable, while hydronic systems generate hot water then pump it through plastic PEX tubing. The heating elements are embedded in the surface and use resistant heating to heat the surrounding area. Most systems incorporate an automatic sensor that detects inclement weather to activate the system. Electric systems tend to be more efficient, require less maintenance, and heat surfaces quicker. Hydronic systems are usually slightly more expensive to purchase and install, but the operational can be lower depending on their local fuel rates. Both systems have their advantages, however, the electric systems are gaining a lot of interest due to their price, ease of installation and threatening future of the cost of fuel.
Why install a driveway heating system? Some of the obvious benefits are of course, not having to shovel your driveway again, avoiding injury due to slippery surfaces, and having the confidence that your driveway will be cleared when you need to use it. Other notable benefits include; adding value to your home, preserving the life of your driveway, and avoiding damage to bordering landscape with harmful salts and chemicals.
Where and when can you install a system? Driveway heating systems can be installed in almost any location, in almost any medium (including concrete, asphalt, under pavers, etc.), and nearly anytime of the year (depending on the medium). The most popular and ideal time to install a system, is during new construction. However, with weather permitting there are no limitations when to install a snowmelt system.
How do the systems work? Snow melting systems are composed of three main items: the heating element, the controller, and the activation device. The heating element can be either an electric resistance cable, or PEX hot water tubing. These heating elements can be installed in almost any medium. The simplest application for installation is under brick or stone pavers and in new pour concrete. Asphalt can also be used but the installation methods call for more care and labor to avoid injurious contact to the cable because of the asphalts temperature and abrasive nature during the paving process. These systems are controlled by either a wall-mounted control box for electric systems, or a small mechanical room to house a boiler, pump, manifold etc. for hydronic systems. Both types of systems use manual and/or automatic activation devices. Available automatic sensors include aerial mounted or pavement mounted snow switches. These sensors activate the system when there is moisture present and the temperature is below approximately 38 degrees. Most systems also include a manual timer to preheat an area before a large storm to curb snow and ice accumulation.
Who installs them and Who sells them? Electric snowmelt systems are fairly easy to install, and any experienced "do-it-yourselfer", contractor, or electrician would be a candidate for installing a system. There are several vendors of driveway heating systems, however, Warmzone, Inc., is a dedicated source for matching your project to best valued solution. Warmzone, Inc. is the consumer and contractor advocate without a bias towards any one system. They will point out the obvious benefits and challenges to any project and sell you a system that makes sense. Warmzone has experience with both residential and commercial projects. Even though they do not install these systems, Warmzone has a growing network of contacts across the country that are ready and willing to help where ever possible. Visit them online at www.warmzone.com, or call them toll free at 1-888-488-WARM.
Warmzone, Inc. - The leaders in design and distribution of radiant floor heating and snow melting systems.', 160, 'Heated Driveways: Who, What, Where, When, Why, & How, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Heated Driveways: Who, What, Where, When, Why, & How plus articles and information on Home-Improvement
3:16 AM | | 0 Comments
Quick And Easy Bathroom Decor Changes
Are you tired of the way your bathroom looks? Don''t feel bad, a lot of folks are in the same boat. The bathroom is one room in the home that can look drab and run down very easily. And what if you don''t have an unlimited budget to make changes in the fixtures and plumbing? Well take heart, there is lots that you can do for very little money that will totally and radically improve the decor of your bathroom.
One of the biggest problems with bathrooms is their tendency to get cluttered. You know, towels hanging all over the place, bath products on top of the vanity and on the shower floor, and things like that. So if you really want to make a 100% improvement in your bathroom clean up the clutter.
Fortunately, that is very easy to do and inexpensive. If you go to any WalMart or Target store, you will find plenty of organizer products for use in the bathroom. They are also very cheap. So get some of them and start to install them so that the most used products and items are within easy reach of wherever they would be used in the bathroom. If you make the storage spot convenient most people will continue to put it back in it''s place after they use it. If you make the storage spot even a little difficult to access, you will see those items left all around wherever someone finds a spot for it.
Next, get some extra towel racks and install them so that there is a towel holder within easy reach of almost anywhere in the bathroom. Extra towel holders mean that even used towels can have a spot to be hung up instead of just left lying over the tub or shower stall door. Another advantage decor-wise of having extra towel bars is that you can use some of them to put up fancy towels for show that will really pick up the appearance of the room and highlight the colors that you used in your bathroom design.
Another simple and easy change to the appearance of any bathroom is the flooring. If you don''t like what you see, change it. Fortunately, most bathroom floor spaces are fairly small and so not much material is needed. There are several options that you can choose from including vinyl sheets, ceramic tile, or vinyl tile squares. If you want simple and easy, stick-on vinyl tiles are probably the way to go. You can get them at a local Home Improvement store and they are usually very inexpensive too, and you can get some great looking designs that look very close to actual ceramic tile at a casual glance. Armed with a small cutter to trim the tiles when needed or shape them around an object on the bathroom floor, you are ready to go. If you make a mistake, peel up that tile, throw it away and use another one. Simple and easy!
Finally, buy some new towels for the bathroom. Get some great new colors and designs that are eye-cathcing and pleasing. Again, not much money invested for lots of return in visual appeal.
Change out the door knobs on your vanity and closet, and change the shower curtain and rings if you have one.
Just a few of these inexpensive changes in a bathroom can go a long way to changing that tired, old, cluttered, bathroom into one that makes you proud to show it off, and a pleasure to use.
Duane Jones - All About Bed And Bath provides free information, resources and tips on finding bedding, comforters, bathroom fixtures, tubs, and more for your home at the very best price.', 167, 'Quick And Easy Bathroom Decor Changes, Interior-Decorating, Interior-Decorating articles, Interior-Decorating information, about Interior-Decorating, what is Interior-Decorating, Interior Design & Decorating Information', 'Quick And Easy Bathroom Decor Changes plus articles and information on Interior-Decorating
3:13 AM | | 0 Comments
Kitchen Decorating Is Easy To Do
Kitchen decor themes can turn a dull kitchen into a beautiful living space. Being the central gathering place for family and friends, the right theme can make any occasion a memorable event.
Kitchen decorating can be bright and simple or with a little more work can become a great conversation piece. Because you spend so much time in your kitchen decorating to suit your taste is very important for long lasting enjoyment.
One of the more important aspects of kitchen decor themes is creating areas of open space. Next, large counter tops with easy to clean surfaces are always a good idea. And picking materials for the floor which are both beautiful and durable belong in anyone''s modern kitchen.
Kitchen decor themes have many advantages but be sure you give plenty of time for careful planning and thoughtful consideration for a kitchen that is stylish and functions properly according to your families needs.
Kitchen design themes can be made to fit anyone''s taste and budget. Here are some of the more common themes:
Antique Kitchen Themes
Home Sweet Home Kitchen Themes
Bright Colors Kitchen Themes
Country Kitchen Themes
Italian Kitchen Themes
Grape Kitchen Themes
Rooster Kitchen Themes
Mexican Kitchen Themes
With today''s access to the internet shopping for kitchen decor themes has never been easier and can be a whole lot of fun creating yourself.
Curtis Miller is a successful author and publisher of Kitchens 4u. Your source for quality items for your kitchen.', 167, 'Kitchen Decorating Is Easy To Do, Interior-Decorating, Interior-Decorating articles, Interior-Decorating information, about Interior-Decorating, what is Interior-Decorating, Interior Design & Decorating Information', 'Kitchen Decorating Is Easy To Do plus articles and information on Interior-Decorating
3:12 AM | | 1 Comments
Home Decorating: Planning Lightning
When you are choosing a bathroom light fixtures or lightning for any room in your home, the first thing to take into account is how that room will be used and, thus, the type of lightning you will need. Light is very important in a room, because it affects colors and makes them seem lighter or darker.
Natural light from windows will change the appearance of colors at different times of the day ? enlivening them in the morning sun and gradually toning them down as the day progresses.
Artificial lights also affect the colors in a room, making them look lighter or darker. They can also play tricks with colors, sometimes causing dramatic changes a, literally the flick a switch.
Lamps are the most popular choice of lights today and are easy to install, a homeowner can accomplish this by himself in just a few hours. They are a very important part of any home that will beautify and add warmth and elegance for every room in your home.
The possibilities for using home lighting are endless when considering light fixtures to decorate your home and the fun and satisfaction of decorating the interior of your home by yourself will be rewarding.
Lightning can be used to accentuate features in the room in much the same way as colors and patterns. Strategically positioned wall lights, spotlights, uplights, or ceiling downlights can be arranged so that they wash a complete wall with a blanket of light.
They can also be used to good effect to highlight an isolated area, such as a display shelf, or a recess filled with beautiful objects, or to light a work of art such as sculpture or painting.
The days are long gone when it was considered adequate to light a room with a single, central pendant light. In specialist lighting store, you can be overwhelmed by the lightning options open to you. Light fixtures, bulb wattages, and even colored light have been brought into the scheme of things so that, apart from practical values, there is also the esthetic appeal to consider. Lampshades, too, contribute to the interest and atmosphere of the room, coming as they do in a vast choice of shapes, sizes, materials, and colors.
Marjan Zemljic is owner of Home-decorating-ideas-and-tips.com and author of How to break into the interior design industry. In his book you will find out how you can do exactly that. For more home decorating ideas visit his website and learn how to create the home of your dreams.', 167, 'Home Decorating: Planning Lightning, Interior-Decorating, Interior-Decorating articles, Interior-Decorating information, about Interior-Decorating, what is Interior-Decorating, Interior Design & Decorating Information', 'Home Decorating: Planning Lightning plus articles and information on Interior-Decorating
3:12 AM | | 0 Comments
Decorating on a Budget - 15 Easy Steps
Many years ago I was told that the least expensive way to redecorate is to rearrange what you have. It was one of the best decorating suggestions I''ve ever had-not to mention the one that can be the most fun to implement. How can you beat it? A new room-practically free! You get such a feeling of satisfaction when you accomplish something spectacular using your imagination and what you already have.
Of course, like many suggestions there is a good way to do this and one that isn''t quite so satisfactory. So here''s a step by step.
1. Choose the room you want to give a new look.
2. Decide on the type of change you would like. Do you want it brighter, lighter, more sophisticated, or more casual? Do you want to give it a contemporary flavor or make it a bit exotic?
3. Take a good look at what is in the room and decide what doesn''t fit the new look/theme that you chose. What is worn out, out of place or out of proportion?
4. Assess the room: Stand in each doorway and in each corner of the room and give it a good hard look. Would the furniture look better on an angle? What is the traffic pattern? You don''t want furniture sitting in the way of how you need to move about the room. Most of us can''t afford to have a room that just sits and looks pretty. A well designed room works for you.
5. Make a list of the items you want tokeep and measure them.
6. Take a buying trip through your house and see what you can use from other rooms. One very important suggestion: double check measurements and colors of the pieces you have "bought" from other rooms. If you want to expand a little, there are frequently friends or relatives who have pieces in their homes they would like to get rid of, so if you don''t have quite what you like, check the family cast offs. Note: You might find you need to freshen your walls with a coat of paint or cover a chair or sofa with a slipcover or purchase new lampshades, but expense should be kept at a minimum, or you defeat your purpose.
7. Once you have your look and know what pieces are available to you, put it all on paper. You need to have a plan, because you could lose your ''willing'' helpers if they have to move a sofa 6 or 7 times to get the right look because you didn''t do your homework. Pay special attention to electrical and cable outlets, heat and air vents and doors and windows. Lighting is important and unless you''re trying the hard way to keep the kids out, you want to be able to get in and out of the room easily and move around comfortably in it.
8. Clear your room. Take the unnecessary pieces and accessories away and put the pieces you want to keep together in another room.
9. It''s time to paint the walls and clean the windows and woodwork if needed. Shampoo carpets, wash floors and make sure your background is sparkling and clean.
10. If there are any small items you are going to need to purchase to complete the look, go do it while everything is drying. DO NOT go shopping without a list. You have your plan and you know what accessories you need to complete your look. The easiest way to get off budget and end up with clutter is to go without a list.
11. When the paint and floors are dry, place rugs on the floor (before you move in the furniture). It is also easier to do window treatments now while the room is empty. They can be adjusted later.
12. Gather your helpers. Move in the larger pieces of furniture. Add your smaller pieces such as tables and ottomans and then bring in the accessories.
13. Lamps are very important, so make sure they are located where they will work the best. Don''t under light your room.
14. Hang your pictures and adjust window treatments.
A note: less is more. An uncluttered room will give a more of an impression of newness then one with too much of everything.
15. Enjoy your new room. In fact throw a party and let everyone admire what you''ve accomplished. You''ll be able to afford it with the money you''ve saved.
Happy decorating!
This content for this article was provided by design consultant to ON THE GO 4 U, Suzanne Copenhaver. Suzanne has years of experience dealing with less than perfect home interiors and infrastructures. She provides in-home consultations on color, space, and design and teaches workshops on decorating for ON THE GO 4 U. Indra A Books, author of many other lifestyle articles is also the owner and founder of ON THE GO 4 U, Personal Shoppers & Concierge Service in the Washington DC metropolitan area. The company''s creed is to provide its clients with the ultimate life management experience. In addition to its shopping and concierge services, ON THE GO 4 U also publishes a monthly e-zine and conducts workshops on wardrobe, entertaining and decorating. For more information about the author and ON THE Go 4 U, please visit http://www.onthego4u.net © 2004 Indra A Books, ON THE GO 4 U.', 167, 'Decorating on a Budget - 15 Easy Steps, Interior-Decorating, Interior-Decorating articles, Interior-Decorating information, about Interior-Decorating, what is Interior-Decorating, Interior Design & Decorating Information', 'Decorating on a Budget - 15 Easy Steps plus articles and information on Interior-Decorating
3:11 AM | | 0 Comments
Safely Decorating Your Kids Bedroom
Wall Decorations:
Never place a wall hanging, picture, poster, or any other decoration on the wall within the baby''s reach. Remember that once the baby is able to stand and reach up these things can be hazards. They can knock wall hangings or pictures off the wall, and hit themselves with them. If it is a picture in a frame with glass, if they were to knock it down, it could break and shatter, causing severe health hazards. If it is something as simple as a poster, it can still be dangerous, because they can rip off a piece of it, and put it in their mouth, leading to choking.
? Bumpers:
It is always a good idea to use bumpers for a baby''s bed, but it is equally important to make sure that the bumper and all other kids bedding fits the crib properly. Bumpers are used to prevent the baby from getting their arms and legs between bars, or between the crib and mattress, and can provide much safety this way, but if it does not fit properly, it can pose more concerns than before, because not only will it allow the baby to get these appendages in these places, it can essentially pin them there.
? Musical Mobiles:
These are excellent tools on occupying your baby, and adding decoration to the bedroom, but they need to be used in a safe manner. Once a baby begins pushing up on their hands and knees, the mobile should be placed at the baby''s feet, and once they start pulling up, it can pose a strangulation hazard, so you may want to remove it altogether.
? Pillows, Blankets and Kids Bedding:
Babies only need one lightweight blanket on them while they are sleeping, such as a receiving blanket. The blanket should only reach as far as their chest, and it should be tucked in tightly around the baby, possibly either around the crib. They do not need pillows or extra blankets. A pillow or an extra blanket can suffocate a child, especially an infant that can not move his head away quickly enough. This also applies to stuffed animals in the crib.
? Crib Sheets:
It is very important that the only sheet you put on a crib be a fitted sheet, and that it fits securely around the mattress. If the elastic won''t hold it on, and it comes loose and slides up onto the bed, it can get tangled around the child and suffocate her. Washing all kids bedding:
Do not forget to wash all sheets and blankets before putting the infant in the bed. They can be washed in regular laundry detergent, but to avoid any allergies or irritants on baby''s soft skin from it, sometimes it is best to use baby detergent.
Infants should ALWAYS sleep in a crib which meets current federal and ASTM standards.
? Mattress
It is also important to pay close attention to how the mattress fits into the crib. The tighter it fits, the better it is, because this leaves less room for them to stick a hand or finger, or any other body parts. Crib mattresses may seem rather hard to an adult who is accustom to a soft bed to sleep on, but they are made this way for a reason: safety. This keeps them from suffocating themselves, and is the same reason it''s never good to let an infant sleep on an adult''s bed, or on a pillow, or even a comforter. The only thing that should be under the baby on a mattress is a fitted sheet, and possibly a mattress pad and/or waterproof pad.
? Sleeping Position
A healthy infant should always sleep on their back, unless you are directed otherwise by a physician. Even without a pillow or fluffy blanket in the bed, a baby on their stomach can get stuck face-down and not be able to move their head to the side to get air, leading to suffocation.
? Mini Blinds and Curtains
Just as with wall hangers and pictures, it is very important not to ever place a baby''s bed near a window with mini blind or curtains. The cord from mini blinds pose a strangulation risk, and they can pull on curtains, pulling themselves out of the crib. Either of these can also cause endangerment if the baby pulls on it hard enough to pull it down on top of them.
Article by Avid Amiri - President of The Kids Bedding Company. Please visit Kids First to learn more about kids bedding and find the best styles and prices on the latest kids bedding designs.', 167, 'Safely Decorating Your Kids Bedroom, Interior-Decorating, Interior-Decorating articles, Interior-Decorating information, about Interior-Decorating, what is Interior-Decorating, Interior Design & Decorating Information', 'Safely Decorating Your Kids Bedroom plus articles and information on Interior-Decorating
3:10 AM | | 0 Comments
7 Tips for Decorating Your Childs Room
If you''re not sure where to start or how best to tackle updating your child''s bedroom, you''re not alone. In a lot of families, the baby nursery takes a lot of planning and decorating time but there''s often less thought and energy put into decorating the same child''s room as they grow older.
It''s common for baby toys and furniture like diaper disposals, pull toys and cribs to get removed, but other things often stay around for quite a bit longer than the growing child might wish. For instance a wall paper border with prints more suitable for your baby or young child''s room, may not be as enjoyed by your now older child (or teen?!).
Here are a few tips to help you get started with decorating your child''s room. The best part about this is that your child can help you do it this time around. So this can be a fun project you can do together!
1. Select a new color to paint the walls, a color that your child likes. If you have a strong objection to it, though, negotiate with perhaps a lighter version of that color, or limiting their color choice to only one wall. (Or, encourage them to put up some nice posters to lessen the wall color''s impact!)
2. Mood lighting! Kids of all ages enjoy mood lighting of one sort or another. Together, select either a night light, a sm