Lighting and your Kitchen - How to Design a Lighting Plan that Cooks!

Your kitchen, more than any other room in your home, needs a good well thought out lighting plan. Today''s kitchens have many more functions than just cooking a meal. For many families it is the most frequently used room in the house. Besides the obvious preparation of meals, kitchens today are also a place for the kids to do homework, parents to pay the bills, reading, eating and watching TV. For this reason it is important that the light not only be adequate but flexible.

The first place to start in any room when devising a lighting plan is to address general lighting. This is the light that will be used most of the time. In the case of a very small kitchen, one light in the center of the room will provide the general light. With most of today''s kitchens being larger, a single light fixture in the center of the room probably won''t satisfy your lighting needs. The most common solution is recessed lighting. Depending on what part of the country you are in they may be called high hats or pot lights or can lights. All these terms mean the same thing. Recessed lighting is a good way to provide general lighting in a kitchen in a neat and clean way.

The placement of the lights is very important. When designing a layout for the general lighting in a kitchen, we want to take into account the areas where tasks will be done. This includes counters, islands and tables. In most cases, by designing the light to illuminate these areas, the rest of the room gets a good spread of general light as well. Try to have the recessed lights fall out on the ceiling so that they are directly above the outside edge of the cabinets. The key here is getting the lights close enough to the work area so that you don''t create a shadow with your body. Putting the lights to far away from the counters is a sure formula for shadows. Don''t overlook any nooks that may be dark.

Islands can provide a great outlet for adding a decorative fixture or fixtures to the room. There are a multitude of pendants to choose from that can really enhance the room. I find it is probably one of the most commented on aspects of a kitchen lighting plan when the homeowner sees the finished product. Simply installing 2 or 3 pendants in line over an island can be quite stunning.

The next step is the task lighting. In a kitchen this is the light directly over the counters, stove and sink. Having one or two small recessed lights on a separate switch over the sink is both attractive and useful. The stove these days is almost always lit from a fan hood or microwave but if it is not it should be addressed. The way the counters are illuminated is with under cabinet lighting. This can be in the form of simple fluorescent fixtures on an economical level. A very nice effect is to use low voltage linear track. These can be dimmed and provide very good light to the counters. There are also xenon fixtures and halogen fixtures. If you can try and stay with xenon as they burn cooler and have a longer bulb life than halogen.

After you have your general lighting and task lighting covered the last thing to consider is any accent lighting. On some kitchens where there is a space above the cabinets, lighting on top of the cabinets can look spectacular. Tray ceilings with crown molding can also benefit greatly from this type of lighting. Using either a low voltage type track or rope light, you can add that extra touch that makes your kitchen unique. For more lighting tips and lighting design help visit the links below.

Paul Forte has been in the lighting and electrical field for over 25 years. He has helped countless homeowners across the country with their lighting needs through his website. He will be appearing on an upcoming episode of "It Takes a Thief" on the discovery channel installing some security lighting.

(c) Copyright 2005 Paul Forte. All rights reserved.

Paul Forte has been in the lighting and electrical field for over 25 years. He has helped countless homeowners across the country with their lighting needs through his website. he will be appearing on an upcoming episode of "It Takes a Thief" on the discovery channel installing some security lighting. How to Layout Recessed Lighting

Visit Our Home Page for more information', 160, 'Lighting and your Kitchen - How to Design a Lighting Plan that Cooks!, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Lighting and your Kitchen - How to Design a Lighting Plan that Cooks! plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

Roof Cleaning - Making Your Old Roof Look Like New!

Many Florida residents that have come from the North are surprised by the idea of roof cleaning - and even more surprised by the fact that many communities here in Florida require it. Reasons for cleaning include aesthetics, property values, energy efficiency, and increased longevity of the roof.

Whatever the main reason, if it is going to be done, it is your best interest to know what choices are available to you. A quality roof should last upwards of 30 years if cared for and maintained properly. Unfortunately, many roofs here in Florida (and increasingly throughout the US) are subjected to unnecessary stress while cleaning the greatly reduces the life expectancy of the roof. With repeated roof cleaning comes certain pitfalls that every homeowner, property manager, and professional cleaner should be aware of in order to avoid damage to property, unnecessary repair costs, and the premature replacement of the roof.

WHY HAS THE ROOF TURNED BLACK?
The black streaking typically found on homes in areas where moisture settles on shingles is not caused by mildew or fungus; it''s roof algae. 3M scientists have identified the most common form as Gloeocapsa Magma. Algae spores are carried b the wind, which is why so many houses in the neighborhood can end up with this problem. During the last 20 years, this particular algae strain has become hardier and so has been able to migrate to less humid environments than it has in the past. And in areas where it traditionally has been found, the staining is showing up earlier, is more severe and settles on a greater number of roofs.

HOW CAN IT BE CLEANED?
Typical roof cleaning methods involve either pressure cleaning or chemical solutions containing Chlorine Bleach or Sodium Hydroxide. If used properly, these methods will clean the roof with minimal adverse impact - but the effects can be very temporary and will generally have to be repeated every 6-18 months in order to maintain the appearance of the roof.

WHAT IS THE BEST CLEANING METHOD?
Each method has its advantages and disadvantages.

A chlorine and water solution can be used followed by a thorough rinse. Of course, since chlorine can be toxic to people and plants, proper care should be taken to protect employees and the surrounding property from overspray and runoff. The benefits to using chlorine include a much faster cleaning process and minimal rinsing as compared to other methods. This translates into much less wear & tear on the roof - particularly asphalt shingle roofs.

Sodium Hydroxide based cleaners are generally advertised as safer for the landscaping, but sodium hydroxide is caustic, very toxic, and care should also be used to protect employees and surrounding property. Sodium hydroxide is also a very effective degreaser. So high levels of sodium hydroxide in a cleaning product can cause damage to an asphalt shingle roof that can be irreversible. These products generally require much more rinsing than the chlorine method. The rinsing process is not only time consuming, but it can also be potentially damaging to the roof if not done correctly. A quality sodium hydroxide based product should not require any more than 100 psi to effectively rinse an asphalt shingle roof and even then some granule loss should be expected.

Pressure cleaning is an option that should only be used on a concrete, barrel tile, or metal roofs. Pressure cleaning has the advantage of not requiring chemicals, which eliminates some of the cost - in addition to landscaping and chemical exposure concerns. The down side to pressure cleaning is that it is very time consuming and it exerts tremendous force on a surface that is not really designed to handle it. In addition, repeated pressure cleaning can wear away the surface of some tiles that are only covered by a thin layer of coloring. When this happens, the grey concrete color starts to show through and the roof must be stained or painted.

THESE METHODS ARE NOT LONG-TERM SOLUTIONS.
While these methods are relatively safe and effective when done properly, repeated use will lead to premature aging of the roof. The natural erosion that occurs over tie from the basic forces of heat, cold, wind, and rain alone are enough to weaken most roofs to the point where annual inspections and minor repairs are necessary to prevent significant repair costs. But when the roof is repeatedly subjected to high pressure or harsh chemicals, the aging of the roof structure is significantly accelerated. With repeated cleaning, tiles are more likely to shift, slip, or break and asphalt shingles are more likely to become brittle and crack. When this happens, there is a greater likelihood of tearing the roof membrane simply by walking on the roof. Once gaps are created in the roof and subsequent pressure cleaning or chemical cleaning takes place, these gaps provide the water or caustic solutions a path to the roof membrane and increase the chance of costly roof leaks.

WHAT IS THE ALTERNATIVE?
A proper program of preventative maintenance will eliminate the need for future cleaning and the potential for damage that comes along with it. Preventing the recurrence of the algae growth will require a light spray of chlorine and water or an algae prevention product.

Most quality algaecides will last for approximately 6-12 months before reapplication of the product is necessary. Obviously, the longer the time frame, the better your chances are of minimizing and unnecessary damage to the roof. Prevention programs should be done in conjunction with neighbors whenever possible and many can be applied without a need for walking on the roof.

One important mote about algaecides: Algaecide products are regulated at both the state and federal level. Any algaecide product used on a roof requires EPA registration as a pesticide or biocide and approval for use on a roof. Contractors found violating the law in this regard cold find themselves facing fines up to $10,000. per occurrence.

John Browne
Roof-A-Cide, Inc.

For additional information on Professional Roof Cleaning and Algae Prevention, please visit our webstite: http://www.Roof-A-Cide.com/ or call 800/806-6727', 160, 'Roof Cleaning - Making Your Old Roof Look Like New!, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Roof Cleaning - Making Your Old Roof Look Like New! plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

Bathroom Remodeling Ideas

Bathroom remodeling is often a popular home improvement project for both new and old homeowners. This may include painting, using new countertops, vanities, windows, retiling, floors, appliances, vents or better lighting. Before embarking on a project of remodeling your bathroom, provided below are a few tips and ideas to make the experience even more fruitful.

Planning

Good planning goes a long way in helping achieve the design of your dreams. First decide whether you want to take up the project yourself or bring in the assistance of an interior designer, bathroom remodeling contractor or a home improvement expert. Consider your budget at this stage and also prioritize the aspects you want to remodel. Do you just want to make just a few changes with minor repairs or give your bathroom a whole new look.

The design

Next measure the bathroom for dimensions and to get an idea of how you can make the best use of the space available. Now consider a good design that gives a feeling of class and space to the room. Also remember not to use creativity at the cost of functionality of the bathroom.

Walls and floors

You can consider painting your walls or using ceramic or granite tiles to suit the concept of the bathroom. Popular flooring options include ceramic tiles, linoleum and baseboards.

The appliances

Consider the appliances that need remodeling with respect to the design of the room. You may want to change the lighting, bathtubs, sinks, showers, faucets and toilets with respect to the concept of the entire room. Use appropriate colors and materials.

Other aspects

Finally you may want to consider using some space for storage where you can stack things that you do not want to be visible outside. Use cabinets made of appropriate materials like wood, laminate or metal to suit the design of your bathroom. Besides storage, consider ergonomics and keep modern usage trends in mind for a creative and functional bathroom.

While bathroom remodeling can be an exciting project it can also seem daunting because of the various aspects that need to be considered for the look and design you require. We at totalremodeling.com have a range of choices, designs, colors and textures to help you through the process. Our panel of experts is also here just to help you remodel your bathroom for the design of your dreams.

Dan Noyes

Home Remodeling Ideas

Read More ON Home Remodeling Information', 160, 'Bathroom Remodeling Ideas, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Bathroom Remodeling Ideas plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

Planning Kitchen Remodeling

Planning kitchen remodeling
If you are planning to remodel your kitchen then various aspects need to be considered before you begin. Given below is a series of steps and guides you can keep in mind to make kitchen remodeling a fun-filled, constructive event.

A basic plan
A well thought-out detailed plan is a must before you begin remodeling your kitchen. This plan should be designed keeping in view the current good and bad aspects in your kitchen. Next you need to decide whether you plan to design the kitchen yourself, use a kitchen or interior designer or work with a cabinet distributor or home center. Also modern usage trends and optimum usage of space should be kept in mind.

Flooring
Sheet vinyl has been a popular choice for kitchen floors because it is available in a variety of designs, textures, price ranges and colors. This has today replaced linoleum, which was a favorite during earlier days. Ceramic tiles, wooden floors and eco-friendly materials are other good options for good looking and durable flooring.

Optimum workspace
Modern trends show that nowadays couples or nuclear families often cook together and share kitchen chores. Thus workspace in today''s kitchens should be utilized such that more than one person can work efficiently without getting in the other person''s way. You can also create distinct work centers by separating workspaces with sinks, microwave or other appliances.

Storage space
Modern trends also indicate that nowadays with women working out, very few items are cooked from scratch and storage space for items needs to be increased. Thus cabinets have entered the scene in a big way. One can choose from frameless and framed cabinets and can order from custom or standard design makers. Check for rollout, tilt-out and other storage features inside the cabinets.

Kitchen sinks
Sinks are an important element in any kitchen. These are available today in a variety of colors, materials, sizes and design options to suit every pocket. You can choose from cast iron, stainless steel, plastic, and top-mount or under mount models. You can also select from single-bowl, double-bowl, deep and shallow models.

Considering appliances
While purchasing appliances for your kitchen remember that these should suit the entire concept of the kitchen design. Opt from built-in or free standing styles and select ranges in materials that go with the color combinations and materials used in your kitchen.

We at totalremodeling.com have a wide range of options to suit your every design requirement. From helping you choose the right materials, colors and designs, our experts are here just to make your kitchen remodeling exercise a wonderful experience.

Dan Noyes

Kitchen Remodeling Ideas', 160, 'Planning Kitchen Remodeling, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Planning Kitchen Remodeling plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

Flooring: Installing Ceramic Tile

Ceramic Tile brings a texture, richness and color to a room that Linoleum has yet to truly mimic. Tile floors can be installed in any room, however they are most frequently seen in Bathrooms and Kitchens. I particularly like them in entryways, where they serve as a transition point from the outside to large carpeted or hardwood floored rooms. They make for easy clean up and are impervious to water damage.

Tile Types

Ceramic tiles come in two basic types. Glazed and Porcelain. Glazed holds up the best for heavy traffic areas and porcelain works well in bathrooms. Porcelain is typically more expensive, so consider your budget and the size of the area you want to tile. Tiles also come in many shapes and sizes. For flooring, however, I would suggest using larger tiles up to 12" x 12".

Underlayment

For proper installation the base foundation or the underlayment is critical. Typically it consists of ¾" to 1 ¼" of plywood. Tiling over Linoleum or existing tile is also feasible, as long as it is solid. I also recommend when Tiling over Linoleum that you first apply ring nails or screws 6" on center over the entire area. Tiles can also be installed directly over Concrete. Make sure in all cases that the floor is level and free of dust and debris prior to installation. There are leveling compounds that you can apply before applying tile if necessary.

Preparing the Site

Before actually installing the tile, it is best to lay it out in the room to see how it will look. Pay close attention to how it runs out toward the walls, in the corners and next to cabinets, tubs and toilets. The trick is to lay the tile out such that stubby tiles do not show up in highly visible spots. Once you have completed this, make two marks with a pencil outlining the most centered tile. These lines should be perpendicular to each other. Also take note of the wall that is most visible from all the others. Now remove the tiles. Next draw or snap a line perpendicular to this wall that is in line with one of the marks you made on the floor.

Then, draw a perpendicular line to this first line. This second line should be centered with the first line and fairly in line with the second mark you made on the floor. Once you have completed this task, re-layout some of the tiles along the perpendicular lines and observe if they run out in a way that will limit cutting and stubbed tiles. Once this is completed, remove the tiles and prepare for the actual installation.

Installing the Tile

Again, make sure the area is free of dirt and dust. Next apply the ceramic adhesive or mastic to the flooring, starting in the center, where the two perpendicular reference lines intersect. Apply enough material to cover 6-10 square feet, if no cuts are required. If cuts are required limit the amount of mastic application to about 2-4 square feet. When applying the mastic, first spread it with the flat end of the trowel. Lay it on relatively thick, approximately 1/8" to 3/16"thick. Then turn the trowel around and run the notched edge over it. This creates ridges in the mastic that helps to hold the tile down more securely. The larger the tile, the larger the notches should be. For example, I use a ¼" notched trowel for 12" x 12" tiles.

Note: Only make up enough ceramic adhesive for 30 minutes, as this material has the tendency to harden up rather quickly.

Once the adhesive has been applied, begin installing the tiles working from the center outward. On larger tiles you should back butter them. Basically, apply a thin coating of mastic to the back of the tile prior to laying it on the floor. This will help ensure a good bond.

As you near the walls or edges of cabinets, tubs and toilets, you will need to cut some of the tiles. I highly recommend the use of a Wet-Saw. A Wet-Saw will allow you to make very accurate cuts, both large and small. You will also save money, as you will waste many fewer tiles with bad cuts or broken tiles. Wet-Saws are not that expensive and once you see your finished product you will certainly be installing more tile. Wet-Saws can also be rented as a cheaper alternative.

When applying Tiles, you may want to use Lugs. Lugs are effectively spacers that come in various thicknesses. I typically like to have no more than a ¼" space between the tiles. Employing Spacers will ensure uniformity with your tile spacing.

Grouting

After the Tile has been completely installed, allow it to sit for 24-48 hours before applying grout and walking on it. Grout comes in many different colors and is very easy to install. Simply mix the grout with water or a special bonding agent and apply with a rubber trowel. Run the trowel on a bias when going over tile corners.

Once the grout has been applied, immediately wipe the tile of excess grout, using a wet sponge and a bucket of water. Wait 30 minutes and again wipe the tiles down of any residual grout. Wait another 60 minutes and repeat. If grout is left on the tiles to dry, you will have a great deal of elbow work scraping it off.

Let the grout sit up for 24 hours and it is ready for use and admiration.

Mark J. Donovan
me_donovan@comcast.net

http://www.homeadditionplus.com
http://www.homeaddition.blogspot.com

Over the past 20+ years I have been involved with Building homes and additions to homes. I have completed many projects that have included: building a Vacation Home, Family Room Additions, and a Garage. I have also finished the upstairs on unfinished homes. My formal education and Profession has been as an Electrical Engineer and Marketing Manager.', 160, 'Flooring: Installing Ceramic Tile, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Flooring: Installing Ceramic Tile plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

Cheap Interior Design Ideas

Cheap interior design ideas come in many forms these days. From television shows to magazines, the industry is trying to teach the consumer how to design cheap. In the past, ideas such as cheap design shows would have left most interior designers horrified. The industry of interior design has changed dramatically over the past few years in order to better accommodate consumers.

In it''s early to mid stages of evolution, interior design was an industry of prestige. Now, due to the demand for cost-cutting design for the average customer, designing on a budget and cheap interior design has become a topic of much interest and acceptance. Of course, you will always find the designers who absolutely insist that durability and style of a design is identifiable with the name brand associated with the contents therein, which relates back to the price tag. Most everyday people do not relate to this line of thinking therefore it has become increasingly unpopular within the normal ranks of the professionals in the industry.

A secret tool to marvelous rooms created using cheap interior design ideas is good decision making. By purchasing some slightly more expensive key items in a room''s furniture and cost-cutting on the smaller items or accessories you can save big bucks and still achieve the same look that is achieved in other more expensive, name brand rooms. The first question that pops into your mind here is likely to be, alright, simple concept, now where do I buy the bargain items?

Easily answered! Your hunt for cheap interior design ideas and items can begin successfully at any bargain-type store. The stores and availability of items in these stores will vary according to your location. Many times, there are locally known ''bargain bins'' or stores at which you can by slightly-damaged or used items at a fraction of the cost associated with similar store bought items. When buying at these stores, be careful not to overspend. Many of us have a tenancy to get overly enthused and purchase items that are not good bargains or ones that we are not very likely to use. Save your money for where it counts. If you bargain shop for long enough, you will find the perfect items that fit into your lifestyle and space, just waiting for you to purchase!

Some accessories are easier to find bargains on then others. If you search and search for a certain item and are unable to find it, try to improvise or select another similar item to take its'' place. Cheap interior design ideas are abundant to the creative thinker who is willing to overcome obstacles with unusual, cheap solutions. Keep your mind open to all possibilities and applications of furniture?a pulled-together solution adds style and a conversation piece to any room.

Other places you can find cheap interior design ideas are yard sales, estate sales, and flea markets. Remember again when shopping in areas such as this that it is easy to get caught up in the moment and overspend. Take your time and comb the items carefully for objects of value. Many times in these type of sales the physically larger items tend to sell for more then cost value and the smaller valuable items are looked over in haste. Cheap interior design ideas are not limited to large items! If you find a good deal on an accessory or such, especially If it is part of a group or collection of items, buy it and use it to accentuate your other items.

Cheap interior design ideas are easy to find these days, you just have to know the right places to look and the right items to purchase. Time is the essential element in designing cheaply. Patience pays off in most any situation, including interior 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, 'Cheap Interior Design Ideas, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Cheap Interior Design Ideas plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

Interior Design For Bargain Hunters

Interior design for bargain hunters is the new fashionable item in the arena of interior design. Everyone is interested these days in making their money stretch as far as it possibly can. There are many, many possible ways to achieve this. The most important determining factor in your success is the amount of patience and time you are willing to invest in order to find and purchase true items of value and not frivolous purchases which are of significantly less value that you will regret later.

The places you will find most traditional bargain hunters looking for pieces related to interior design are places such as second hand furniture stores, seconds depots, and discount stores. If you shop around in these stores, you are likely to run across great purchases for interior design for bargain hunters. These purchases might include items such as furniture, linens, accessories, and the like. You can even occasionally find bargains on household electronics such as wide screen televisions and stereo systems. Be sure when buying items such as these that they are in useable condition and the fact that they are broken is not the reason they are for sale so cheap.

Another potential place to purchase items for interior design for bargain hunters would be homemade sales such as yard sales, flea markets, auctions, and estate sales. These places are no longer areas where you will find the occasional bargain hunter and enormous amounts of obsolete, valuable items that no one will find but you. Rather, these places have been commercialized as being places to find great deals and even the most common shopper has his or her eyes open for that ''dream'' deal. This being said, these places are still great resources for the bargain hunter who is looking to buy well-conditioned, useable items for a better cost then one would find in a department store.

An aspect of interior design for bargain hunters that many people do not ever even consider is the labor involved with creating the designs. This can include services such as painting, moving, carpet cleaning, ect. Labor prices are the end of interior design that often are the most costly (with the exception of furniture and flooring). Bargain hunting for labor is a bit different then bargain hunting for actual physical items. You might think that perhaps you can afford to hire someone for less actual dollars an hour that possess perhaps less skill then another more expensive worker. This is a tricky aspect of interior design for bargain hunters.

Keep in mind that many times workers who have more experience or are better skilled at a certain task will complete the work at a faster pace then the unskilled worker, thus actually evening out the hourly price, and also there is not as much of a possibility of costly mistakes. So, honestly, depending on the skill level of the worker involved, you might be better off with the more expensive yet more efficient laborer.

Whatever the market or product you are searching for, be a smart, price-savvy comparison shopper and exercise control over spending amounts. Establishing pre-set spending amounts is a form of self-discipline and should be exercised throughout the interior design process. Bargain hunting for interior design can be as simple as taking this principle to heart and applying it to all of your decorating activities.

Finally, hard work and attention to detail can enormously decrease project costs so if you have the time and the understanding to see an aspect of the designing through yourself, this alone can turn a large budgeted project into a small one. After all, that elbow grease is worth a little something!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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 Bargain Hunters, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Interior Design For Bargain Hunters plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

Interior Design For Children

Interior design for children is one of the most fun, delightful aspects of the business if you ask me. It is so fun because children are limitless as far as their creativity and imaginations are concerned. Whenever planning interior design for children, be sure to involve the children in the planning and-if you feel very brave, the implementation of your designs.

A good beginning point or theme for interior design for children is to start with any favorite activity or toy or even character of the child''s interest. Remember that many items of interest to children are topics that will change with time so try to take advantage of these interests and favorites with accessories and changes that will be easy to replace in the future as their interests and needs change. If a child has an interest or a particular activity that they are very enthused about and they have a special request that would make the design very special to them, go for it as long as the parents are as enthusiastic as the child is. Also, forewarn them of any possible headaches they might experience changing it in the future when it comes time to redesign the space in order to accommodate the child''s changing needs.

When choosing your color plan or schemes remember that interior design for children offers you unique opportunities to use bold or bright colors that would usually not be ideal for use in adult surroundings. Along the same lines, certain areas of the room would be more ergonomic to use as focal points then would in an adult''s atmosphere. For example, a chalkboard or toy box might capture a child''s attention more so then would a table or seating arrangement.

Another aspect of design that will vary from adult tastes when planning interior design for children would be the accessories that will be used to highlight and accentuate key features. Toys and collectibles make wonderful objects to use in this application. However, many times toys that are placed on display or for decoration are toys that the child would enjoy much more by being able to play with it rather then it actually being on display. You can solve this dilemma by either using old, unused toys that no longer captivate the child''s interests or even by purchasing duplicates and allowing them to actually use one version of the toy and letting them know that the others are ''for looking only''.

Also, keep in mind that collectibles often times are of less significance to smaller children then are to adults so make sure that any item placed in a child''s room is not of significant fiscal or sentimental value just in case!

Tying in interior design for children can be accomplished easily by purchasing one of millions of available bed treatments that is complimentary to the designs and themes used in the creation of the room layout as well as fitting in well with the accessories chosen. Many bed treatment packages come prepackaged with matching detailed sheets, a comforter, dust ruffle, and window coverings. These items can bring a room together in the greatest of all fashions and are an option in interior design for children that are obtainable by anyone looking to make a change.

Always remember when planning interior design for children that a child changes attitudes, opinions, and behaviors around every three years. Permanent changes of any type are a big no-no and practical, cost effective ones are ideal. A good furniture tip to remember when designing for kids is to buy reasonably priced, sound furniture that doesn''t break the bank. Kids are even harder on furniture then they are on clothes! And most importantly to take into consideration when working with interior design for children--of course, HAVE FUN!!!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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 Children, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Interior Design For Children plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

Designing With Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors are suited to both casual and formal environments; they feel at home with modern or traditional and will compliment the decor of both minimalist and eclectic designs. Hardwood can be classic, rock, jazz, country, or hip hop. Today''s State-of-the-art technology coupled with an almost limitless choice of stains, finishes, styles and designs makes hardwood flooring one of the most practical and versatile floor coverings available. Their beauty is enduring and like a fine wine, they mature with age.

Nature provides the inspiration when designing with hardwood floors. The abundance of natural hardwood species provides a plethora of wood grain structures, each unique and each matching a particular décor. Oak woods contain a lot of growth ring patterns and knots, and are best suited to traditional and rustic decors. However, adding a high gloss finish can make them elegant enough for any formal dining room. Woods such as Maple, Walnut and Birch contain very little graining and lend themselves well to contemporary and modern designs.

The aesthetic appeal of hardwood is also influenced to a large extent by mineral streaking, the presence of knots and shade and color variation. These features are also used in the classification of hardwoods.

Clear ? This grade of hardwood is free of defects though it may have minor imperfections. Flooring in this category tends to be very consistent with little mineral streaking and knots, also making it the most expensive grade. Select ? This grade is almost clear, but contains more natural characteristics such as knots and color variations.

Common grades (No. 1 and No. 2) have more markings than either clear or select and are often chosen because of these natural features and the character they bring to a room.

No.1 Common has a variegated appearance, light and dark colors, knots, flags and worm holes. No.2 Common is rustic in appearance and will show all wood characteristics of the species. These grades have always been the least expensive, but the recent revival of the antique rustic look has resulted in prices skyrocketing.

Performance is a very important aspect when selecting a hardwood floor. Some hardwood species are less porous than others, making them harder and less susceptible to staining. The Janka Hardness Test provides the relative hardness of numerous wood species used in flooring. This rating should only be used as a general guide, as the hardness is also affected by growth region.

Plank construction and finish are also important factors when determining the durability of any wood floor. Plank construction comes in two forms, solid and engineered. Factors such as type of existing subfloor and relative air humidity will determine which floor is best suited to your needs.

Great advancements in finish technology have resulted in floors that are less susceptible to scratching, denting, fading, and are easier to maintain. The addition of Aluminum Oxide to the surface finish has added a measure of performance resulting in a hardwood floor that, maintained properly, should never have to be replaced.

This flooring article was written by Barry H. Get more tips and techniques at: Flooring information', 160, 'Designing With Hardwood Floors, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Designing With Hardwood Floors plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

Selecting a Laminate Floor to Suite Your Needs

The traditional look of hardwood flooring is timeless; its beauty has brought a sense of comfort and elegance to homes around the world for many generations. Hardwood floors are however pricey, not very durable and require a fair amount of routine maintenance and care. Even the most recent technological advancements in surface treatment have not been able to solve such problems as scratching, fading, denting and staining. This has lead to the invention of laminate flooring. With its machine made construction and hardwood photographic laminated surface, laminate flooring is the perfect solution for the look and appeal of real hardwood floors that are more durable and require less maintenance.

Since the introduction of laminate flooring into the US in 1982, the sector has experienced growth of up to 20% per annum at the expense of other flooring types, making laminate flooring the fastest growing flooring type in the country. Its appeal lies not only in its aesthetic value of its representation of real hardwood, but also due to its incredible durability and ease of maintenance. Laminate flooring is built to withstand the rigors of today''s active lifestyles.

Unlike hardwood, laminate flooring will not stain, fade, dent and is far more scratch and water resistant. Laminate warranties range from 10 years to lifetime and cover such factors as mentioned above. Entry level laminates are designed for light traffic areas and come with warranties ranging from 10 to 15 years. Most people set their expectations too high and expect that an entry level laminate will perform under heavy traffic conditions and still look good for the duration of the warranty. This is however not the case, as an entry level laminate subject to high traffic will start to show wear and tear within three to five years.

Buying the laminate flooring that suits your needs will save you money in the long run. This is not to say that every home requires a high end laminate with an extensive warranty. Consider the amount of traffic as well as the amount of time you intend staying in your current home. There is no point in purchasing an expensive floor with an extended warranty if you plan on moving in the near future. Remember, flooring is usually the first thing replaced by people when moving to a new home.

Laminate floors come with cores ranging from 6mm up to 12mm. A thicker core is more stable, less vulnerable to buckling and will sound more like real hardwood when walked on. Good quality laminate cores are treated with water repellent chemicals, and resist swelling due to excessive moisture. This is very important especially when considering placing laminate floors in bathrooms and kitchens. For these applications also consider a laminate that has Paraffin wax impregnated joints. The Paraffin wax acts as a water repellent and will prevent topical water spills from penetrating down to the laminate core. Also remember to scrutinize the warranty, as certain laminate floors are not covered for use in bathrooms and kitchens.

The introduction of glueless locking mechanisms has opened the door to the DIY market. The absence of glue allows for a quicker installation and easier repair, and unlike other flooring materials that require specialist knowledge and equipment, these floors can be installed by people with no prior experience and no specialized tools. The ability to install the floor without having to hire an installer will save you a considerable amount of money.

This artcile was written by Barry Hutch of Contract Resources. Visit their website at: Guide to flooring and Pergo floors', 160, 'Selecting a Laminate Floor to Suite Your Needs, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Selecting a Laminate Floor to Suite Your Needs plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

Improving Your Bottom Line Through Vastu

The design of your office and home has a great influence on your financial success. If your work or living environments are in harmony with nature they have a positive affect on your prosperity.

In nature all five elements (water, fire, earth, air, and space) are in balance. When a home or office is built that balance gets disrupted. Vastu is an ancient architectural science that balances the five elements in any environment bringing maximum productivity and success.

As a part of this earth, we live in a sea of electromagnetic and stellar influences. Every shift produced in the atmosphere has the potential to affect our actions. Every particle of energy in the atmosphere is linked to the next particle. According to Vastu, the sun produces different qualities of energy on its path from east to west and can influence our daily life. Each of the five elements is associated with a direction and each direction has a particular influence on our business activities. Each function of a business is most optimally supported by an individual direction.

The northeast area of you home or offices is linked to the water element and influences your success. The northeast is good for entrances, managerial offices, research and development. If this area has proper Vastu, finances will grow and there will be positive cash flow. If there is a toilet, clutter, heating or lighting systems, or blockage, growth will be slow.

The southeast, which imparts the energy needed to complete transactions, is aligned with the fire element. Kitchens, lunchrooms in offices, computer rooms, heating and lighting systems, and legal matters produce beneficial results in the southeast. When this area is utilized properly, there will be speedy transactions and profits. If there is a missing corner or blockage, transactions will be drawn out and investments will be sluggish.

The southwest area of your office is associated with the earth element and drives your financial support. A master bedroom in a home, offices for the chairman, directors, and supervisors of a business are most effective in the southwest. With proper Vastu in this direction, financial backing will come easily along with secure savings. If there is a toilet or heating source, there will be cash flow problems and depletion of savings.

The northwest area of your office associated with the air element. It influences the ability to create and communicate. Bathrooms, conference rooms, bookkeeping, and sales work well in the northwest. If this area is balanced according to Vastu principles there will be satisfied customers and clear communications. If there is a missing corner or blockage there will be inaccurate bookkeeping, dissatisfied customers, and confusion.

The central area of a home or office is associated with the space element. If this area is open there will be business and career opportunities. With clutter, toilets, a kitchen, or no open space in the center of an environment, there will be financial limitations.

The earth is a magnetic force and is composed of the five elements, as is our brain. The thalamus is the relay center for all sensory and motor skills in the brain. Neurological research has shown that the firing patterns of neurons in the thalamus function differently depending on which direction one is facing. Our mind is then the interactive result of the affect of the magnetic field on our brain cells. By placing our bodies and environments in alignment with the magnetic axis, we can think and act more in tune with nature.

Our actions will be more synchronized with the forces of nature, much like swimming with the stream as opposed to swimming against it. Many studies have shown that when one faces north at their desk they will be more productive and successful. Studies have also shown that sales increase when a sales person faces north or east when working with a customer.

Unfortunately most modern architecture is based on function alone and is not designed to obey the forces of nature ? the sun, wind, water, climate changes, and the planets. All ingredients of a business ? whether home or office based - are greatly enhanced when the functions mentioned above are in their proper position. If there is imbalance, these can be corrected by a qualified Vastu professional who is experienced in rectifying pre-existing buildings.

VASTU TIP OF THE MONTH

Things That Make You Go Mmmm?

To stimulate financial growth in your life place a water fountain in the northeast area of your home or office. Fountains are very effective in moving "stuck" energy, especially when it comes to finances.

Water symbolizes purity and enlivens all living things. Our bodies are made up of 70% water. We can live for quite some time without food, but we cannot survive very long without water.

Fountains with moving water enhance life-supporting energy. Fountains cleanse and absorb negative energy. They polarize light, creating ultraviolet light with ozone, which enhances all growth.

About The Author

Michael and Robin Mastro''s synergistic approach successfully assists people in living in peace and harmony with themselves and others, and in creating balanced lives filled with unlimited possibilities. Visit us at www.VastuCreations.com

info@vastucreations.com', 160, 'Improving Your Bottom Line Through Vastu, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Improving Your Bottom Line Through Vastu plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

Realign Your Budget - Purchase Your First Piece of Fine Art

If you don''t have at least one piece of fine art in your home, then you just have no idea what you are missing out on. Whether an original or reproduction piece, fine art adds warmth, beauty and interest to every room. So why is it that people tend to spend lavishly on furniture, carpets and accessories, but do not provide in their budget for the piece that could be the focal point of the room?

We are indeed fortunate now to have a wide range of fine art available to us on the Internet. In just a few short hours, you can browse museums and galleries around the world to find the fine art painting you love. Reproductions of major artwork are available in several formats, from inexpensive prints to hand-painted oils. All at the touch of a button. You can also find original fine art online, often very inexpensively. Artists who have not yet become famed can exhibit their work at online galleries and reach a much wider audience than would be otherwise possible in smaller bricks and mortar galleries. Bringing a new piece of art into your home is always exciting, but imagine how much more intriguing it would be if it was something you''d discovered for yourself through your own research.

While prints will brighten up a room, you should also consider investing in a real oil painting or another form of original on canvas. Since the Internet allows galleries to show their work to a wide audience with little overhead, real paintings can be had for very reasonable prices. And you''ll find the texture and substance of a painting as opposed to a print to be well worth the added expense. Home decor is a challenge for many home owners so the hardest part is not necessarily coming up with the theme, but tying it all together and making all of the colors, textures and themes combine. In order to decorate your home successfully there are a few things for you to consider.

First decide what your budget is. Having a budget will help you apportion money to the right areas and ensure that you have enough to finish the job. Next choose a style and make a plan. Decide the style of theme you want for your room or home decor. Do you want a modern or oriental tone? Once this is established you can pick the colors you want to use. Do you want the room to be calming or energizing? Colors have a very influential impact on our moods and feelings. You can then decide on the furniture and accessories you wish to use. This is a good time to select the art or prints you wish to feature. Make sure that the print is reflective of the theme of the room. Do not buy art just because it ties the colors in the room together. Art is a powerful medium that is used to invoke emotion, feeling, and thought so the emotion the art projects should be aligned with the feeling of the room

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', 160, 'Realign Your Budget - Purchase Your First Piece of Fine Art, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Realign Your Budget - Purchase Your First Piece of Fine Art plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

Scented Candles ? Take Me AWAY!

Remember the old Calgon commercial-"Take me away Calgon!" There''s only one thing that can take you away faster than a Calgon bath, and that''s a scented candle. Whether you want a breath of fresh spring air, or you want to transport yourself to a South Sea paradise minus the hassle of airport security, crowded, delayed flights and lost baggage, grab a scented candle, and travel wherever your imagination leads. Smell is a powerful sense, and you can use it to alter your mood within seconds with the flicker of a candle. In fact, why not keep a supply of scented candles in the bathroom when you don''t have time to luxuriate in the bathtub. Envelope yourself in fragrance while you shower, dry and blow-dry.

Close your eyes and think of each season: winter, spring, summer and fall each evoke special "scentual" memories. If it''s the dead of winter and you''ve already suffered through 73 days of snow cover, light a piña colada candle or a seaside candle and pop in your favorite Beach Boys CD. Inhale the scents of summer and forget about the cold for a few divine moments. Select a delicate floral candle or maybe a rain forest scent to remind you that April showers are right around the corner. If it''s 102° F in the shade, there''s nothing like a pine-scented candle to send a quick shiver up your back. Longing for fall? Light a pumpkin candle to evoke the Harvest Moon and the bounty of autumn. Whatever the occasion you''d like to recreate, it''s only a candle away. That''s the power of the sense of smell.

Holidays are incomplete without candles. If you think back to your favorite holiday gatherings, your mind will probably wander to your favorite scents. Think about your favorite Christmas tree, and you''re bound to remember the crisp smell of pine or cedar. The traditional holiday season from Thanksgiving to the New Year provides a natural cornucopia of fragrance. From pumpkin pie to peppermint ice cream to vanilla, the scents of the holiday season are everywhere.

Perhaps you use an artificial tree instead of a fresh-cut tree each year. Simulate the scent of a Frazier fir with candles. Artificial trees are getting closer to their natural kissing cousins with each passing season, but they remain "flat" without the accompanying scent. They just can''t bring the smell of Christmas into a home like the real thing. Light a few pine or cedar candles, and voila-you may never miss the genuine article.

Feel free to light several complementary scents at once. The seasons and the holidays are full of naturally occurring complementary fragrance. Each season contains a wealth of pleasing smell. The holiday season probably provides the most scent. Recreate the memories of Christmas past with gingerbread, vanilla, cinnamon, eggnog, clove, nutmeg, pine, peppermint candles. The scents don''t compete, because they occur naturally, and you''ve smelled them from infancy. If you can think of a memory, you can find a candle to recreate the mood.

Look around your home. You''ve probably created a room or two around a theme. Perhaps you''ve created an indoor sunroom. Bring the scents of the outdoors into your sunroom to add authenticity. Perhaps you''ve built a room around a color. Add lavender-scented candles to that lavender room, rose-scented candles to a pink room, new-mown grass-scented and rain forest candles to a green room, vanilla or gardenia to a white room, and seaside to a blue room.

Don''t forget the kitchen. Not only will you want to add scent, but you may want to eliminate odors as well. If you''ve created the perfect dinner for guests, the last thing you want is the smell of garlic, onion, or fish wafting through your home when they arrive. If the odor is overpowering, turn on the kitchen fan, spray a little odor neutralizer in the air, and light citrus-scented candles to replace cooking odors with the clean scent of fruit.

Cheaper than a trip to paradise, quicker than you can even say "banana bread," you can light a candle. If your mind can imagine it, you can create it with scented candles for mere pennies!

M J Plaster is a successful author who provides information on shopping online for scented candles and candles in general. M J Plaster has been a commercial freelance writer for almost two decades, most recently specializing in home and garden, the low-carb lifestyle, investing, and anything that defines la dolce vita.', 160, 'Scented Candles ? Take Me AWAY!, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Scented Candles ? Take Me AWAY! plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

Simple Way to Get More Heat from Your Fireplace

For some people, a fireplace might as well be a video of flaming logs. Their primary interest is the welcoming ambiance a fireplace''s blaze presents. If, however, you expect your fireplace to provide heat in exchange for your log-carrying, fire-building efforts, (or in the case of gas logs, in exchange for your gas bill), it''s time to maximize your fireplace''s heat output.

There are various contraptions designed to return more of a wood or gas fireplace''s heat into the room and stanch the flow of that precious heat from escaping up the chimney. Many of them involve fans and vents and considerable expense. But one of the most time-honored, hassle-free, and least expensive methods of increasing a fire''s heat output is making a comeback: the fireback.

A fireback is a sheet of metal, sized in proportion to the fireplace, that''s placed against your back fireplace wall. Firebacks can be set on the hearth''s floor and just leaned against the back fireplace wall, but often they are secured by placing them in supporting braces which keep the fireback from sliding. Firebacks come in two main styles: the cast iron fireback and the stainless steel fireback.

The traditional cast iron fireback, popular in earlier times and making a revival now, is a sheet of heavy, black, cast iron. Often they are cast with a design, such as a fleur de lis or eagle, to add a decorative touch to this functional fireplace accessory.

The cast iron firebacks work on the same principle as heating radiators. The metal is heated (by hot water in the case of radiators and by the fire in the case of firebacks), and then that heat is radiated into the room.

Although attractive and functional, the cast-iron firebacks are too heavy for many people to manage easily. Their weight also adds to their shipping costs, and therefore to their total price.

A more modern fireback design, one that is growing in popularity, is made of a sheet of very gently curved, tempered stainless steel. These stainless steel firebacks warm your room in two ways. First, like the cast iron firebacks, they radiate the heat of the fire forward into the room. But they also reflect the heat, as well as the light, of the fire into the room.

Stainless steel firebacks weigh only one-sixth as much as a similarly sized cast iron fireback, so they are easier to manage and less costly to ship. But their main appeal may be their price: They cost only a fraction as much as their cast iron cousins. Whereas a cast iron fireback, depending on size, can cost $250 to $700, the stainless steel versions usually go for $50 to $150.

Both cast iron and stainless steel firebacks dramatically increase the room-warming capacity of your wood or gas fireplace fire. The addition of this simple fireplace accessory to your hearth can mean warmer toes and lower heating bills.

*****Susan Penney appreciates simple ways to make our homes renewing spaces for our families. She invites you to visit http://www.FireplaceMall.com for fireplace accessories to serve your fire-less or your fire-filled fireplace.', 160, 'Simple Way to Get More Heat from Your Fireplace, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Simple Way to Get More Heat from Your Fireplace plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

Materials For Building Window Shutters

Shopping for window shutters can become confusing because of the huge variety of materials used and promoted as superior. The construction methods of a shutter unit, including the materials used, contributes greatly to the overall cost of shutters purchased. However, a well-constructed unit made out of high-quality materials will also last longer and look better than something less than ideal. Following is an outline of various woods and synthetic materials that are often used in building shutters.

Basswood Shutters
(Tilia Americana Linnaeus, or the American Linden)

Basswood is absolutely the best wood for building window shutters. The Basswood tree can be found from Quebec south to Delaware and the Atlantic coast west to Eastern Kentucky with an average height of 65 feet. Basswood is a renewable resource and careful forest management ensures tree harvesting is done responsibly, balancing growth with removal. Each year the United States grows about twice as much hardwood as it harvests. Basswood shutters are very straight and has a fine uniform texture with an indistinct grain. Basswood machines well and is easy to work, and screws and glues well and can be sanded and stained to a smooth finish. It dries fairly rapidly with little distortion. Basswood has fairly high shrinkage but good dimensional stability when dry.

Popular uses for basswood include drafting tables, broom handles, carvings, turnings, furniture, moldings, millwork, musical instruments, woodenware, food containers, and surfboards.

General Basswood shutter characteristics:

Does not warp Lightweight yet very strong Uniform grain for a beautiful stain finish Low in resin and tannin which may bleed through finish Renewable resource which is replenished as it is harvested Superior gluing and finishing properties

Oak Shutters

Oak shutters are very heavy. Oak shutters add much weight to window jambs and screws require pre-drilling. Oak shutters are not suitable for painting. Oak shutter louvers tend to warp.

Maple Shutters

Maple shutters are very heavy. Maple shutters add much weight to window jambs and screws require pre-drilling. Maple louvers are hard to tension uniformly.

Poplar Shutters

Poplar shutters mill and paints well. Mineral streaks and a green color make poplar unsuitable for staining. Poplar is moderately heavy for shutters. Poplar is widely available, but less costly. Poplar is best used for millwork and trim that is nailed in place. Popular produces a lesser quality shutter.

Cedar Shutters

Cedar shutters mill and finish nicely. However, color varies greatly for staining. Cedar is soft and can dent and scratch easily. Tilt bar staples do not hold well.

Cedar shutters work wonderfully for exterior shutters. The outstanding durability and resistance to decay of incense cedar makes it ideal for exterior use where moisture is present. This wood gives long service with little maintenance in such as mud sills, window sashes, sheathing under stucco or brick veneer construction, greenhouse benches, fencing, poles, trellises, and shutters. Incense cedar is also used extensively for exterior siding because it is dimensionally stable and holds paint well, in addition to being durable. Oh, yes, and bugs hate it!

Alder Shutters

Alder is our second choice for shutters. Alder is a smaller tree so only shorter lengths are available, thus tall shutters require finger joints.

Pine Shutters

Pine is a softwood. Many different species and grades of pine is available, so quality tends to be inconsistent.

Synthetics, Plastics, Vinyl, Fauxwood, and Poly

Many synthetics incorporate "wood" in their name, but most contain no wood - usually called faux wood or poly shutters. Made from stock size components with few, if any, custom options. Come in limited white colors, and cannot be stained. Look, feel, and sound like plastic. Relatively new product so limited customer satisfaction experience. Synthetics are less costly to manufacture. Heavy and tend to sag. All synthetics are manufactured from nonrenewable resources.

All About Shutters serves as an online buyer''s guide for interior and exterior shutters, discussing a variety of topics with informative articles.', 160, 'Materials For Building Window Shutters, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Materials For Building Window Shutters plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

How to Select Exterior Shutters

nstalling exterior shutters is a relatively quick way to add style and color to the outside of a house. Historical and modern houses alike benefit from the timeless style of shutters. As with any home improvements, the quality and longevity of an addition should be evaluated before proceeding.

Exterior shutters are available in many shapes and materials. Vinyl shutters are easily available at most home improvement stores, and they can be a cost-effective option. However, vinyl shutters often look like plastic, they are not useful as operable shutters, and they cannot be stained.

Shutters are also made out of many types of wood. The best wood for exterior use is cedar because of its outstanding durability and resistance to decay. Cedar gives long service with little maintenance in applications such as mud sills, window sashes, sheathing under stucco or brick veneer construction, greenhouse benches, fencing, poles, trellises, and exterior shutters. Cedar is also used extensively for exterior siding because it is dimensionally stable and holds paint well, in addition to being a deterrent to bugs.

The tannin (oil) in incense cedar is what makes it such a good wood for exterior shutters. It helps prevent moisture penetration and bugs hate it. However, shutters should not be left unprotected. Rather, it is best to finish the shutters before installation so all surfaces can be fully covered. While paint can be brushed, it is recommended that it be sprayed. Most house painters will spray shutters with their airless spray systems for latex paint.

The best base is a primer coat of an oil-based primer tinted as close to the final color as possible. The oil penetrates into the wood, offering better protection. It can be applied in a much finer mist, thereby reaching between and around louvers and into seams, joints and corners. The top two coats should be a premium-grade exterior latex paint. A topcoat of exterior latex paint will not chalk or fade like an oil-based paint. If shutter caps will be used, paint them as well since the top edge of shutters is the most vulnerable to moisture penetration.

Shutters should be mounted to the building with at least a ½" spacer between the back of the panels and the building to allow for adequate ventilation. If not using hardware, use rust-proof screws sunk flush to the wood. Paint the screw heads following installation.

An opaque painted finish prevents light rays from penetrating the finish and breaking down the wood fibers. However, shutters may also be stained. When staining shutters, use finishing products designed specifically for outdoor or marine use ? and be prepared to do more maintenance on shutters to keep them looking good.

Installing shutters can be as simple as affixing the panels directly to the house. It is also possible to install operable shutters, which can be closed over windows for protection against storms, and a number of hardware options are available. Look for heavy, solid hardware with a finish resistant to decay, such as zinc-plated hardware with a wrought iron black finish. Shutter caps can be another useful piece of hardware to keep water off the top of your shutters, protecting against moisture damage.

ShutterLand Exterior Shutters provides exterior cedar shutters sold as individual panels, and the shutters usually ship within six working days. Exterior shutter panels use fixed louvers available in two styles, with or without a divider rail. A wide selection of exterior hardware is also available.', 160, 'How to Select Exterior Shutters, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'How to Select Exterior Shutters plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

Window Shutters On A Budget

While there is great value in installing custom-made interior wood window shutters, sometimes they are still too expensive for certain applications. Some alternatives ? including poly or vinyl shutters ? are less expensive but also much less attractive. For a high-quality solution at a lower cost, look for a company that sells individual solid wood shutter panels that can be installed in any configuration.

When shopping for individual shutter panels, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The most important factor is the material used to make the interior shutter panels. Basswood has the best characteristics for window shutters because it is a very straight hard wood with little distortion. Basswood also has a fine, uniform texture and indistinct grain, which make it superior for staining or painting. You should also look for a company that can make a large number of panel sizes so you can receive the best final fit for your window.

How To Determine Individual Panel Sizes to Order

It is best to determine how you will mount your shutters before ordering the shutter panels. Sometimes it is necessary to use hanging strips to attach shutters to the outside of the window opening. A reputable company will provide information about different installation methods so you can determine how best to install on a specific window.

Width:
Measure the width of the area you want the shutters to cover (NOT including any trim strips).

1. Divide this width by the number of panels you want across the window. This will give you the approximate width of each panel. Round this measurement up to the nearest 1/4 inch.

Example:
Width = 36-7/16"
Divide by 4 and round up to nearest 1/4"
Order (4) shutter panels 9-1/4" wide

Height:
Up to 1" may be trimmed off the top and the bottom of each individual panel (a total of 2" per panel).

1. For a two tier unit (panels across the top and bottom), combine individual panel heights as required.

Finishing
A high-quality wood shutter panel can be painted or stained to a beautiful finish. Even if the shutters arrive and seem fairly smooth, a light sanding is advised before beginning the finishing process. After sanding and brushing off any dust, primer and paint can be applied. Often a more smooth finish is achieved by spraying the primer and paint, although the use of a high-quality brush can also result in a nice finish. When staining, follow the instructions given by the stain manufacturer. The stain manufacturer may recommend applying a wood conditioner before staining in order to ensure even stain color penetration.

Once your shutters are finished and installed, you will have a high-quality product that will increase the value of your home at a fraction of the cost of custom-made shutters.

ShutterLand Interior Shutters provides solid wood interior window shutters sold as individual shutter panels. Interior window shutters come unfinished, ready to paint or stain. Plantation and traditional style shutters are manufactured direct in hundreds of sizes, sold at a discount, and shipped quickly nationwide.', 160, 'Window Shutters On A Budget, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Window Shutters On A Budget plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

Luxury Bedding is More Than Just Thread Count

Thread count is the most widely referred to term when searching for those "perfect sheets." Generally, the higher the thread count, the more costly you''ll find the sheets. But is thread count the real measure of luxury bedding?

Thread count is only one factor in the equation of luxury bedding. The qualities of the fabric are what put the luxury in your sheets. There are, however, two main types of fabrics and they are natural and manufactured. Luxury bedding is almost exclusively made from high-quality natural fabrics such as Egyptian cotton.

Thread count refers to the number of threads per square inch of fabric. A higher count usually indicates a finer thread. It is the finer thread that gives a sheet its softer feel, unless chemical finishers are used. These chemical finishes, which are often used on cheaper sheets, will make the sheets initially appear to be silky smooth, but after a couple washings the finish will wear off. Chemical finishes are also detrimental to those who have sensitive skin or suffer from allergies. In reality thread count is mostly a measure of a sheet''s softness and not necessarily its quality. For example a 340 thread count sheet made with Egyptian cotton can feel as smooth as a 400 thread count sheet made with cheaper cotton. Does this mean that a low grade cotton sheet with 800 TC fabric feels twice as smooth as 400?

Not necessarily. If you have been shopping for luxury bedding you may have seen advertisements for 800 + TC sheets. This number can be misleading. These sheets achieve a super high thread count by adding multiple plies of fabric together. While these sheets are smooth, they are not as proportionally smooth as the high number would lead one to believe. The added plies increase the durability of the sheet which may be necessary if the bedding is made from low quality materials. High quality fabrics will be made with high quality fibers which are strong and tightly weaved. The best fabrics are generally going to have a thread count between 300 and 350.

Natural materials, such as Egyptian or Pima cotton, are preferred over manufactured materials for bedding. This is because cotton will allow the body to breathe while at rest. But if one prefers a silk-like feel then Lyocell is a good alternative. It is a manufactured material that is made from natural biodegradable materials.

So remember, when shopping for high quality sheets keep in mind that thread count is more an indicator of the smoothness of a sheet and not as much an indicator of quality. If a bedding set claims to have a high thread count check to see if it is made of a high quality fabric. One should seriously consider an investment in quality bedding materials such as Egyptian cotton for longevity, comfort, and especially if you have sensitive skin or suffer from allergies.

Kelly White is cofounder of Home Delights. You can find more info about bedding and down comforters at: http://www.sleepdelights.com.', 160, 'Luxury Bedding is More Than Just Thread Count, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Luxury Bedding is More Than Just Thread Count plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

Upholstery Fabric Will Give Your Furniture a New Look!

Upholstery fabric will put some new life into your old and ragged furniture. If you notice that your furniture has been starting to look a little worn and shaggy recently, upholstery fabric may be just what you are looking for. There are seven different types of natural upholstery fabric: Linen, leather, cotton, wool, cotton blend, vinyl, and silk.

There are also six synthetic forms of upholstery fabrics: Acetate, acrylic, nylon, olefin, polyester, and rayon. As a general rule, cotton is best if small children will frequently use the furniture, as it provides good resistance to wear, fading, and pilling. If adults will usually use the furniture, then silk may be a better bet. However, for the best all-round upholstery fabric, many people chose Olefin, for its good looks and durability. Also consider the cost savings form using wholesale fabric upholstery.

Tips on finding the right Upholstery Fabric for your home.

If you would like to upgrade your furniture using upholstery fabric but are turned away by the prices, consider looking for an upholstery fabric discount or a store that supplies wholesale fabric upholstery. As many different colors and patterns are available, be sure to choose the fabric that goes best with the rest of your furniture. Also take into consideration how much wear and tear you can expect on your new furniture. If you are able to find the upholstery fabric that best fits your needs, you will have beautiful and long-lasting furniture for many years to come. Fabric, upholstery, fabrics, drapery, furniture and tapestry are all used to enhance and embellish your home dwelling.

About The Author

Mike Yeager - Publisher; http://www.a1-fabric-4u.com/', 160, 'Upholstery Fabric Will Give Your Furniture a New Look!, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Upholstery Fabric Will Give Your Furniture a New Look! plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

How To Know If Interior Design Is Right for You

Have you ever seen a beautiful house or office building and wondered who did the work? Have you ever wished that you could do some of the work that you''ve seen elsewhere? Many people wonder what it would be like to be an Interior Designer, but they rarely ever go beyond thinking about it.

If you really want to know if Interior Design is right for, this book will be your comprehensive guide to the ins and outs of the business. In this book, you will learn what it takes to be an Interior Designer, what it costs to get certified, you will get all the techniques on how to get started, and much, much more.

An interior Designer is a consultant. You are there to design an environment as well as explaining to your client what the project will entail and what you will need to do to make it a success. You must educate your client about interior design.

You have obviously given the idea of being an Interior Designer serious thought or you wouldn''t be reading this. Of course, like most people, you are probably wondering whether or not it is the right choice for you. I can guarantee you, that after you''ve read this, you will know for sure if Interior Design is the right career choice for your future.

Interior Design can be a very lucrative career choice for the right person. You might be wondering exactly what an Interior Designer does. It is really simple. An Interior Designer creates, organizes, and designs commercial and/or residential properties. Basically, an interior designer works with the interior of a particular space, such as rooms, offices, boardrooms, and various other internal spaces. Here is a list of some of the places that interior designers can work in.

* Hotels
* Banks
* Restaurants
* Stadiums
* Arenas

This doesn''t seem very broad, but think of all of the other types of homes and businesses that I didn''t mention. The possibilities are truly endless in this field. Interior Designers do more than just decorate a space. In some cases they can add extra rooms, design patios and gazebos, add or remove wall space, and they spend a great deal of time networking with people.

Interior Designers are responsible for creating a comfortable and relaxed space for their clients to live and/or work in. It is your duty to provide the best work that fits your clients requirements and budget. People put a great deal of trust in you, and you must reward that with the best final result possible.

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, 'How To Know If Interior Design Is Right for You, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'How To Know If Interior Design Is Right for You plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

Interior Design For Babies

Babies, babies, babies-yes the topic of this article is based on interior design for nurseries. The new arrival of a baby brings a time of thankfulness and joy into all parents'' lives. It also brings to mind an important question: where will the nursery be?!? Once the actual space has been decided upon, the next concern will be color scheme and furniture. Before you make all of your choices concerning the new arrival''s bedroom quarters, keep these important tips in mind.

To begin with, the gender of a baby will may influence the color scheme used in the room and this will not be something that will be able to be determined right away so either neutral colors should be used or the painting of the walls and purchasing of the accessories should be prolonged. Keep in mind not to wait too long if it is your intention to paint the room. You will want to be sure to allow any noxious fumes time to disperse before bringing baby home and actually using the nursery. The safety of the child should be one of the main elements involved in the planning of interior design for nurseries. Keep this aspect in mind as you make every choice involved with your design.

Fortunately for the early birds, the traditional ''pink for girls and blue for boys'' theme is not the happening thing in interior design for nurseries these days. Sure, pink is still associated with girls and blue is still normally in tune with boys design but the strict adherence to these rules is no longer the norm. A complimentary mixture of these colors is the basis of most contemporary designs. There is no reason to limit the possibilities of colors used in interior design for nurseries based on old traditions. Exposure to color in the nursery is your baby''s first environmental experience and it has been confirmed by doctors and scientists alike that this exposure aids in your baby''s development.

Stenciling is a method that has been and still is very popular in interior design for nurseries. Almost any of your neighborhood crafting stores should have a sizeable supply of stencil designs that you can easily use to create a ceiling-level or mid-level border around your baby''s nursery. If you are feeling a little more ambitious, there are many more intricate nursery themed designs that you can purchase in stores or even online that will require a little more time but produce astonishingly impressive designs. If this is still too little work for you, then go all out and create your own stencil patterns by sketching them first onto mat board and then cutting them out with an Exacto knife.

Once your walls are complete, it is time to begin making decisions on the furniture for the room. If you have heirloom baby furniture, let me make a suggestion. Don''t use it. Keep this furniture for display purposes and purchase new furniture. I make this suggestion for two reasons. First of all, baby furniture that was made prior to the 1960''s did not have to adhere to any safety regulations. While your father''s philosophy of ''they don''t make ''em like this anymore'' might apply to cars, it does not seem like excellent advice concerning children''s furniture. Secondly, even if the furniture were safe, there is a good possibility that it will be damaged or broken during use. The best bet in any case would be to save these treasures to pass along to your child when they are older and to invest in a new set of furniture for use in your interior design for nurseries.

After the major choices of furniture that cater to the new arrival''s needs have been made, it is important to remember to include a space for mom or dad to sit during those sleepless nights! Rather then purchasing another traditional yet impractical item for the nursery, try considering your alternatives to the long-backed, hard wooden rocker. A comfortable alternate choice might be a spacious, comfortable recliner. You will appreciate this advice at four o''clock one morning as you roll over and try to envision how you would feel sleeping in a rocker around then.

Accessories can make interior design for nurseries come together in a wonderful, and useable way. Never focus on the visual aspect of an accessory for a nursery before you consider its usefulness. You will find out soon that practical items such as diaper holders, changing tables, and so forth are much more appreciated then aesthetic items such as ceramics or stuffed animals. The purchase of stuffed animals brings forth another important safety issue. Be sure not to purchase items with small parts or pieces on them which the baby can choke on.

Once all of the necessary and useable accessories have been purchased for the baby''s room, then feel free to go out and invest in some purely decorative items which you can treasure at a future time. This is, after all, a time you will remember and cherish for the rest of your life.

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 Babies, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Interior Design For Babies plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

Beginning Interior Design

Beginning interior design is a challenging, exciting adventure that one must be willing to endure sacrifices and even at times costly mistakes in order to complete this learning successfully.

If interior design is an activity that you are thinking about as a potential career, you owe it to yourself to invest the proper amount of time and energy into educating yourself in the field of creative design. If you are interested in learning about creative design for other reasons, such as designing your own space or home, it is better that you focus your attention on the particular area of design that is pleasing to you.

This being said, if you have the time and energy and would like to learn more about overall designing, then hey, go for it! You might become so good at it that it might be a potential career for you as well!

In any case, beginning interior design is not for the ''curious'' entrepreneur who does not possess the patience to learn the essential elements and makeup of nicely formed design. It is instead, an employment that is mainly composed of educated, prestigious professionals who care greatly about their work and are passionate with their creativity.

A good starting point for beginning interior design is the object of much controversy in the industry. Many professionals moan and groan that there are too many ill-qualified persons out there representing themselves to the consumer as legitimate designers when they do not have a formal education in the subject.

I agree that many people represent themselves as having a grasp or an understanding of the field, while they are clearly incompetent. However, I do not agree that formal education shapes and molds the best designers. The best designers possess the ability to design before they are even able to understand the concept of interior design.

Beginning interior design for these candidates is basically giving them the tools to do what they naturally understand how to do already. These people are blessed with an internal sense of creative design. Beginning interior design to them is a natural process. These are the designers that seem to outperform and outshine all other designers.

If you feel as if you are not part of this group of gifted individuals and still have a yearning or driving force to learn about this growing industry, then beginning interior design is a very doable activity as long as you are open minded and dedicated to improving your knowledge and understanding of design.

Begin with the basics and propel yourself upwards on the journey to understanding the creative process.

A very bad reason for beginning interior design are money related motivations. I have heard countless people comment on their interest in interior design due to the income potential associated with the industry.

Remember, if you''re not good at something, the likelihood of getting paid well to do it is not very high. The higher salaries in this business are almost always associated with talented, well-established designers who have made interior design their life''s work. Talent and knowledge are keys to success in any industry and one should apply these rules when considering interior design as an income earning activity.

Interior designers come in many forms, backgrounds, and experience levels. Hard work, dedication, and creativity are values that you will find in any successful interior designer. Keep this in mind when beginning interior design work of any kind and it will aid in your ability. Work of any kind is exactly as described?work. Finding something that you enjoy and love to do is what makes work rewarding.

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, 'Beginning Interior Design, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Beginning Interior Design plus articles and information on Home-Improvement

Nursery Decorating Ideas: Creating a Timeless Retreat

Decorating a baby room is a wonderful opportunity to create a carefree hideaway - a place of slumber and lullabies.

BABY ROOM THEMES?

From Tropical Jungle to Noah''s Ark, Teddy Bears to Winnie the Pooh: There are many delightful baby room themes to choose from - any one will spark enthusiasm and generate exciting nursery decorating ideas.

But decorating the baby room can be daunting: There''s so much choice - nursery bedding sets, furnishings, nursery wall décor and accessories of all kinds! Also young children can soon outgrow even the most enchanting baby room themes.

NURSERY DÉCOR?

Co-ordinated nursery bedding sets and matching accessories can make easy work of decorating a baby room, ensuring nursery décor is effective and harmonious.

But mixing and matching presents the opportunity for more imaginative nursery decorating ideas - and it''s fun! The key to success with ''mix and match'' nursery décor is to select elements - baby nursery pictures, fabrics and accessories - that share color and pattern elements.

Basing nursery décor on neutral wall and floor coverings enables endless variations: Keeping baby room decorating ideas flexible makes it easy to adapt to a young child''s developing interests.

By changing just the accessories - nursery bedding sets, pictures and rugs - different nursery decorating ideas can be developed without all the upheaval of a major redecorating project. For a while, at least, baby room themes can grow with your child!

COLOR SCHEMES?

Young children love bright primary colors but large areas can be overwhelming. Decorating the baby room with a subtle, calm color scheme is usually a better choice. Introducing warm colors - rose, peach or primrose - into your baby room decorating ideas will help create a feeling of coziness.

While decorating the baby room with the cool colors - aqua, mint or sky blue - can create a feeling of spaciousness. But it is probably best to keep ideas based on this color range for a room with a warm, sunny aspect.

Touches of bright primary colors bring extra interest and visual stimulation. Introducing just small amounts with baby nursery pictures, nursery bedding sets, toys and accessories can transform a room. These are the finishing touches that can bring nursery décor alive!

NURSERY WALL DÉCOR?

From a series of framed art prints to big cheerful posters, a collage of birthday cards to giant stick-ups - nursery wall décor can create an interesting focus and highlight of color.

A special picture may provide inspiration for some great baby nursery ideas and the basis for a subtle color scheme.

Pictures can be used to develop baby room themes, giving them added dimension: Baby nursery pictures of animals can extend a Tropical Jungle theme - Paddington Bear pictures a Teddy Bear theme.

Look for baby nursery pictures that you find inspiring - they can be a valuable source for interesting nursery decorating ideas. But, best of all, good nursery wall décor will help to create a special place that excites whimsical fantasy and imaginative storytelling - the essence of a magical childhood!

About The Author

Writer and designer of elementary educational materials with particular interest in art education. Webmaster of www.NurseryPosters.com

suzanne@takingwing.co.uk', 167, 'Nursery Decorating Ideas: Creating a Timeless Retreat, Interior-Decorating, Interior-Decorating articles, Interior-Decorating information, about Interior-Decorating, what is Interior-Decorating, Interior Design & Decorating Information', 'Nursery Decorating Ideas: Creating a Timeless Retreat plus articles and information on Interior-Decorating

Create a Luxurious Laundry Room

Give your home a luxurious feel with a beautiful laundry room. Even if you hate doing the laundry, you cannot deny that there IS a certain amount of satisfaction from transforming a bunch of dirty things into fresh and fragrant clothes! Put these items in your laundry room and feel the difference!

-a few plants

-adequate shelving

-a rug or piece of carpet to stand on

-an ironing area

-large folding table

-music

-framed art or prints

-a pretty dish to catch clutter and extraneous pocketed items

-a trash can (continually clean the lint from the dryer)

-GOOD LIGHTING, lamps, etc.!!!

-laundry sorters

-a bulletin board for laundry codes

-decorative tins/boxes for laundry detergent and soap

-laundry baskets

-a clothes line

-a rolling cart for extra supplies

If you can, put the laundry room on the same floor as the bedrooms. A laundry chute is an amazing laundry room organizing tool. It so much easier to streamline the laundering process with these two luxuries!

Find a good carpenter or contractor who can do this for you. You can find a prescreened, quality contractor at: http://www.best-organizing-products-superstore.com/nationalcontractors

Also, good lighting is perhaps THE most essential laundry room organizing tool. I recently found a great handy man who installed more lighting in my laundry room and what a difference it made. Now I can actually see my laundry!

Rebekah Slatkin is a professional organizer dedicated to getting people organized through hands-on decluttering sessions, teleconferencing, coaching, and her website http://www.best-organizing-products-superstore.com Visit http://www.best-organizing-products-superstore.com and subscribe to Organewz, her ezine dedicated to organized living and get organizing tips and downloads- free.', 160, 'Create a Luxurious Laundry Room, Home-Improvement, Home-Improvement articles, Home-Improvement information, about Home-Improvement, what is Home-Improvement, Home Improvement Information', 'Create a Luxurious Laundry Room plus articles and information on Home-Improvement