How to Give Your Bathroom a Makeover on the Cheap

When is the last time you took a bath? Was it a long time ago? How about the last time you really enjoyed the appearance of your bathroom? If the answer wasn't either "yesterday" or "today," then it's time to do something about it! Upgrading your bathroom to make it a place you can enjoy and appreciate doesn't have to be a difficult renovation or bank-breaking investment. Here are some simple ideas to revamp your space.

1. Take on a bath tub project. If you take on a bathtub refinishing project, you'll find that it is a very cost efficient and can really transform your washroom into a brand-new spa-like experience. Though it might take a little physical work, it will be well worth the reward of having a beautiful new tub to enjoy after a long day of work.

2. Add some flair. Adding a few fun pieces in the bathroom can go a long way, especially since it's usually one of the smaller rooms in the home. Buy some new bright colored towels, and a small picture that accents the towels. With these small colorful twists, it can revive your bathroom from looking bland, to looking grand!

3. Reorganize the clutter. If your bathroom is driving you nuts because it's unorganized and messy, it can really ruin your spirits. Can your problem be solved by adding more storage space or additional tower racks? If so, you've got an easy job. Look into investing in a bathroom vanity. These beautiful pieces of furniture can instantly transform a bathroom with its' distinct characteristics and abundant storage space. You can either go with a single or a double vanity, which has the ability to save you tons of time in the morning when you're used to hurrying your roommate or significant other out of the bathroom. It also leaves you with an easy way to clean up after yourself, and can neatly hold all of your toiletries.

These are just a few things to consider before you decide to rip down the wall or start showering in the outhouse down the street. You don't need to take drastic measures to have your dream bathroom restored, just take one of these approaches and have confidence in your home remodeling skills!

If you would like more information on a bathtub refinishing project or any other bathtub ideas, please visit the SimplyBathtubs.com website.

Renovations That Give the Best Return on Investment

Renovations are excellent means of not only enhancing your quality of living but also boosting the project's return on investment by the time you decide to resell your New York home. Through these projects, you are recreating areas in your home to bring out the most welcoming, appealing, and functional results.

Your renovation project does not have to cost you an arm and a leg to yield success. An expensive project does not necessarily mean more payback. The key to make the most out of your allotted budget is spending it wisely. Whether you have a limited or sky-is-the-limit budget that can accommodate from surface-level to full-scale renovation, the most crucial factor to focus on are implementing designs that last as well as selecting quality products.

To appraise the value and get the most out of your hard-earned money, note that not all renovations are created equal. To maximize the benefits you will get out of the project, consider any of the smartest ideas to bring back the best return on investment.

The Kitchen

Since the kitchen is the most frequented area in any home with most of the waking hours of every family member spent here, kitchen renovation would surely create a great impact and difference. Considered as the heart of a home, most buyers tend to visit this area first to make sure that it does not only look and feel good but would efficiently accommodate every essential purpose.

The Bathroom

Stress is a common denominator that links most human beings today. What better way to soothe stress away than a luxuriating time to start as well as end the day? A beautiful and efficient bathroom renovation would surely make any homeowner anticipate the coming of each day, no matter how hectic it can be. A trend that is increasingly becoming very popular is creating a spa-like environment in your very own bathroom. A bathroom turned into your personal, everyday spa would surely be irresistible.

For larger homes, additional baths would also make up for extra appeal. For space estimate as well as deciding the new bath location, it is best to consult with your contractor.

Exterior Renovation

As the popular and proven clich goes, First impressions last. Renovating the surrounding grounds of your home through landscaping would give its curb appeal a great boost. A low maintenance garden with some attractive fountain fixtures could work well in creating an ambiance. And for a major facelift for less of the cost, have your walls repainted and new sidings installed.

An important key to the success of your renovation project and the eventual achievement of the anticipated return on investment, is hiring a qualified remodeling contractor. Quality is an important consideration that the buyer will critically be looking into. So if you are not a contractor yourself, the renovations are best done by skilled and experienced professionals.

Another thing to keep in mind is that modern buyers find home features that require less maintenance more attractive. If you have wall-to-wall carpeting, you can have this removed and refinish the existing hardwood flooring. Swimming pools are also among the least appealing with the tedious and regular cleaning and maintenance it requires.

Eugene Makeev has been in the home improvement industry for a while. His skills and expertise, which have been polished through time, are now used to help New York home owners avoid the common pitfalls in home improvements by matching their needs with the right, prescreened New York Contractor. For more Home Improvement information, Visit Best ROI Renovations.

Getting Started Remodeling Your Kitchen

Tired of dealing with a kitchen that is out of style? You may want to consider giving your kitchen a face lift.

If you are planning to remodel your kitchen, there are definitely many things to consider. After all, you want a beautiful and functional kitchen that won't totally break your bank account.

Not sure where to begin? Here are some tips that can help you get started with your kitchen remodel.

Figure Out Your Budget

The very first thing you need to do once you have decided that you want to remodel your kitchen is to sit down and figure out your budget.

There is no reason to start on the rest of the plans until you know how much money you have to spend. Figure out how much you can realistically spend on this project.

Once you know how much money you have available, then you can go about figuring out what things you'll be able to do with that amount of money.

Whether you have a lot of money or a limited budget, you'll still find that there are many great options for remodeling that will make your kitchen look great.

Look Online for Inspiration

Another important thing to do that will help you get your remodeling project going is to look online for inspiration.

Take a look at pictures and kitchen design ideas that are available on the web. There are many different websites that specialize in kitchen design and remodeling.

By taking the time to browse through, you may find some ideas that you want to use in your kitchen. If you need some inspiration and ideas for your own kitchen, the internet is one of the best tools to use.

Considering the Floor Plans

If you're doing a drastic kitchen remodel, you'll need to consider the floor plans. Perhaps you need to make better use of the space in the kitchen or you need to find more area for storage. Changing up the floor plans can help.

Take a look at various floor plans for kitchens. You may even want to have a professional architect or other remodeling professional come in and help you out.

If you already have an idea of what you want then you need to focus on drawing up plans that will make the most out of your space and that will provide you with the options and space for appliances that you want.

DIY or Professional Contractor

One important consideration you need to think about is whether or not this remodel is going to be a do it yourself project or whether you want to hire a professional contractor.

There are pros and cons to both options, but you'll need to figure this out before you get too far into the project. If you are experienced with other do it yourself projects and you have a limited budget, it can be a great idea to do the remodel yourself, as long as you know what you're doing, just be careful with the gas and electrics, you should seek professional help at this stage to ensure safety.

However, if you aren't familiar with remodeling techniques and you have the available money, choosing a professional contractor to do the work may be a great idea.

Yvonne Sutton runs a free information site on the many aspects of kitchen design.

Visit the site to gain valuable help on how to choose a new kitchen design.

Tiling a Shower - Floor, Ceiling, Walls

Tiling a shower is no doubt an ambitious undertaking. It is a challenge that many homeowners take on though. The most mysterious part of building a shower is the constructing of a shower pan. How do you keep it from leaking? Well, you can use a prefabricated shower pan and avoid the conventional masonry construction. But many folks tackle building a shower pan themselves. So where do you start when building a shower?

The Shower Floor

Build the shower floor first. The shower floor you see as ceramic tile and grout is not waterproof. The tile and especially the grout are porous and so a liner under the surface of the floor is needed to keep the water from damaging the area around the shower. When a shower pan leaks, some part of the waterproofing plan has failed.

A shower floor is constructed on top of a solid base. It could be subfloor or it could be concrete. A special shower drain is set in place first. This drain has two sets of drain holes, one above the other. A layer of masonry is poured in place sloped to the bottom set of holes. Place on top of the sloped mortar a special vinyl membrane. This vinyl sheet is actually the waterproof layer of the floor.

The membrane is glued to the base of the drain so you then have a waterproof liner which is run up the wall several inches too.

Now above the liner a second layer of mortar is poured that is sloped toward the drain to serve as the base for the tile. After the mortar dries for a couple of days the tile is set using thinset adhesive. Then the tile is grouted and the floor is ready.

Ceiling

If you will tile the ceiling, this step comes next. You can support the ceiling tiles with strips of plywood over each course. Hold the strips with lengths of 2x4 wedged between the shower pan and the ceiling.

Walls

Mark lines on the back wall and then on the sides. You'll need horizontal and vertical lines. If the shower walls partially enclose the front of the shower, you can use the back corners as the vertical working lines as long as the walls are plumb.

Spread adhesive on the back wall and set the tiles until complete. Then complete the sides and then the front. Put in place any fixtures like soap dishes as you move around. Finally, complete the trim around the door or threshold.

A ceramic tile shower is a challenging project but one that many homeowners successfully tackle.

Puzzled about how to build a ceramic tile shower? Need more information? Visit our site for more tips on tiling a shower.

Al Bullington invites you to visit http://www.InstallingCeramicTile.net for answers to your ceramic shower questions.

Are Replacement Bulbs For Exit Signs a Thing of the Past

If you jump into the 21st century and utilize a truly remarkable line of sustainable products known as photoluminescents, then you will never use or replace another light bulb in any your emergency exit signs ever again. The reason why? There will no longer be light bulbs involved. As a matter of fact, you will no longer need electricity to power these signs either.

Photoluminescent technology has been around for over 50 years, but it has not been an acceptable option for approved egress signs until now. You see, photoluminescent products contain plastic coatings that are infused with pigments that glow in the dark. Now glow in the dark items have been around for decades, but because of today's high-tech research and development, the materials have been greatly enhanced. Today these photoluminescent materials can glow brighter and hold a charge for much longer periods of time, and because of this fact photoluminescent exit signs and emergency signs are now recommended by federal agencies, osha and other governing bodies. So now I am sure you can see that the light bulb illuminated signs are in danger of extinction.

Unless you are crazy...light bulbs ARE a thing of the past, for exit signs anyway. This is why... Photoluminescent exit signs are less expensive than the old fashioned signs. They do not use light bulbs, which are also expensive and need to be replaced continually throughout the sign's use. They do NOT require electricity to power them, which is also expensive. They cost hardly anything to install, whereas the old electric powered signs require you to hire an electrician to install. Do you see the pattern here? So why would anyone in their right mind want to use the old fashioned emergency exit signs that require electricity or batters and light bulbs?

So there you have it, I predict that changing light bulbs in emergency exit signs IS a thing of the past... or soon to be.

I wrote this article because of my experience with these signs. I recently rehabbed an old office building and decided to go with the latest technology for my emergency exit routes, and I found this to be a no-brainer, and I just wanted to share!

I found all this info at GloBrite Systems. They were very helpful with making sure I had the right signs to comply with the fire codes in my building. They really know there stuff! Check them out at http://www.globritesystem.com

Non-electric and easy to install, the GloBrite Eco Exit PM 100 is the only non-radioactive, zero energy and zero maintenance photoluminescent exit sign on the market that is visible at 100 feet.

For more information on how these signs can reduce costs and help the environment, head to http://www.globritesystem.com

Builders Can Help With Bathroom Projects

Home improvement television shows are inspiring all of us to pick up a hammer or a glue gun and make our homes showplaces. After all, they make it look so easy on television. It can't be that hard, can it?

Well, in honesty, it can be hard. There's a reason why contractors charge so much. But, don't despair. you can learn how to do it yourself. What it takes is practice. By starting small and tackling smaller projects, you'll gain the confidence and knowledge to go after the bigger projects.

One great place to start is the bathroom. Bathroom renovations are often small projects that have big potential. In fact, the small size of the room will make it less intimidating for you. Replacing tile in a bathroom is less daunting than in the rest of the house.

Of course, many people want to increase their bathroom's size because it is too small. If that's the case in your home, it's okay. It is not all that hard to enlarge the space. Often you can do so by merely taking out a closet or dividing wall. This is not as intimidating as it sounds, as long as you plan for it. (For one thing, make sure it is not a load-bearing wall you are taking out.) Once that closet or wall is gone, you can redesign the space however you wish.

Before you start bashing out walls, do talk to builders and home improvement store staff. They can help you learn how to use various pieces of equipment or figure out an option you had not considered. Also look on the internet and check out community colleges for courses in what you need. There is a lot of information available to help you get the job done. By fulling preparing in advance, you will be more comfortable with what you are doing.

Don't be afraid to hire a builder. It's often better to hire a professional and get a quality job done than try to attempt it on your own. Doing it yourself may just mean more money spent down the road to fix mistakes.

You will also be aware of the costs involved in the project at hand. Home improvement professionals can help you budget the bathroom of your dreams while keeping costs down.

One thing to remember in any home improvement project: work always takes longer than you expect, especially if you work full-time. This is true whether replacing a bathtub or a kitchen island counter. Often a project will take up your nights and weekends, adding tension to your home. Don't worry, it will pass when the work is done, but be sure to be patient.

When you get to the end of your project, not only will you have a nicer bathroom. You may find you've also learning a thing or too: about bathrooms, about home improvement and about yourself.

Being particularly passionate about kitchen cabinet islands, Eric Slarkowski was editing plenty of short articles on this specific topic. You can find his articles on kitchen island counters at http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com and various other sources for kitchen island counter knowledge.

Redesign Your Home Into Your Dream Home

What could you do with $150,000? You could buy a small, modest home in some communities. You could sell your home and move to a larger home. Or you could redesign and personalize your current home so that, although it will appear average on the outside, looking undistinguished from the neighbours, there is absolutely nothing average about the interior once the work is complete.

Exactly what sort of project are we talking about? Interior renovations and redesign with minimal, if any, work being done to the exterior of the home. Most often such a project will include all the areas that make up the entertaining zones of a house kitchen, dining room, living room, entry, hallway, and a powder room or washroom basically just the areas that guests would definitely see. Sometimes these projects also include the staircase, and depending on the scope of the space planning changes and original layout of the house, some slight modifications to the bedrooms may come about as well. More often than not, these projects involve structural work, plumbing, electrical, and tons of finishing work.

Usually when such a major project is undertaken, part of the purpose is to create a more open-concept space within the existing exterior walls. Although it is easy to presume that fewer walls equates to fewer costs, this is a major misconception when it comes to renovations, because there are many more issues that have to be addressed:

Chances are that at least one wall to be removed is currently load bearing (structural). The load will have to be temporarily supported until the new permanent structural elements are properly in place. A consultant (structural engineer or similar) should be involved.

In many municipalities, a permit is not required for a simple renovation, but the minute you start touching anything structural a permit becomes a mandatory acquisition and expense not to mention a potential delay if the application was not submitted early enough. Check with your municipality for specific details concerning timing, cost, necessity, and other pertinent information.

When you demolish a wall, you are left with a damaged area of flooring which usually necessitates replacing the entire floor. On occasion you can get away with installing a coordinating or contrasting inlay of another flooring material, but this tends to cost in labour alone what a whole new installed floor would cost.

Demolishing a wall also creates the need for repair on the ceiling and on any adjoining perpendicular walls. Although not an expensive fix, it is certainly costlier than just plastering a few nail holes or other imperfections.

Electrical wiring, outlets and light switches all have to be rewired and relocated.

Pipes, plumbing stacks, ventilation conduits, ducting, and the like, all have to be relocated to be concealed within floor/ceiling constructions and within walls that will remain.

As with any renovation project, labour accounts for approximately 30% of the total budget. Consultants fees (designers, engineers, etc.) and contingencies (unforeseen circumstances) are both higher for this scope of work than for a simple renovation project.

What motivates homeowners to go to this extreme with interior redesign and renovations? There is actually no typical homeowner profile for projects of this scale. Sometimes a house has been purchased inexpensively and putting a large amount of money into renovations would still be within the purchasers budget and not bring the total too far over the market value. Other times a family has lived in the home for many years, the mortgage is either paid off or now quite low, and they just cant imagine moving, so major renovations are the best solution to meet their changing needs. Sometimes such projects come about due to physical needs; major renovations are often required to make a home fully usable to someone in a wheelchair who wants to maintain their independence. It is also common that an older parent moves in with his/her adult child and their family in this case renovations would be done to facilitate both added privacy and improved family space. The reasoning behind investing so much into a home is completely based on personal and/or family-life lifestyles and dynamics, budget and finances, changing needs, a love of the home and its location, and so much more.

The implications of such a major redesign on a home vary as much as peoples reasons for taking on such projects in the first place. Depending on both the specifics of your project, and the community in which your home is located, the value of your home may increase by about as much as the budget of the project, or as little as about 25% of the value of the renovation. Property values could be discussed with a knowledgeable and experienced local real estate agent prior to commencing the project. It is important to remember which information the real estate agent can provide that is of value to you it is not in a real estate agents field of expertise to counsel you concerning wood species for cabinetry, and his/her personal opinions should be taken exactly as such. However, you will want to listen to his/her point-of-view concerning the benefits or negative implications of things such as creating a huge washroom vs. a walk-in closet for the master bedroom, or a home theater room vs. a larger kitchen with a cozier family room. But in the end, it is your needs from your home and space that should have the final word on how the project unfolds. Possible implications extend beyond resale value. Also on those lines though, are property taxes and ease of sell-ability. Even if you are increasing your homes value by $75,000, there is a chance that it will take longer to find the right buyer should you ever decide to sell it is sometimes a bit of a challenge to sell a home priced significantly higher than others in a neighbourhood, no matter the justification for the price.

One implication of large-scale redesign projects, which has to be taken into account during the design phase, is temperature control. Especially if you are opening-up the floor plan, you will want to keep in mind that the walls you have now play a role in stopping cold air from the front door from blowing straight through to the back of your home. In summer months, the walls prevent hot sunlight from reaching areas from all sides. How sound travels through your home will also be affected with fewer walls present. Your requirements from your kitchen ventilation might also have to be reevaluated. If you have any young children, or pets, you may find it more difficult to restrict them from certain areas (such as the kitchen when the oven is hot) without walls or doorways. At the same time though, you will have better visibility of your home from almost any given area. Communication with a family member from the next room will be effortless. The sense of isolation that often comes with being in the kitchen to prepare a meal will be a thing of the past.

With little effort, you can prepare a list pages-long of the pros and cons of open concept floor plans, and major redesign projects in general. Everyone you speak to will have strong opinions about your project, its goals, and the alternatives available to you. Keep in mind that others preferences do not affect how you and your family use your home; some of us function at our best with smaller but more numerous rooms, while others thrive in open space. The only way to ensure that a project of this scale will be all that you dream of and more, is to hire the proper professionals interior designers, engineers, general contractors, or others, early enough in the planning phases. Before committing yourself to a contract with anyone whom you will have to work closely with, make sure that the right chemistry exists between you your input and questions should be welcomed by them, and their responses and reactions to you should give you a sense of confidence.

Karen S. Weiner is the owner and principal interior designer of Idealspace Design in Montreal, Quebec (Canada). http://www.idealspacedesign.com

Building a New Home Basics

Building

Building a house is a complicated project and utilizes dozens of subcontractors, workers and suppliers. Building or supervising a construction project requires a minimum of knowledge, but equally important, a tried-and-true method. Keep in mind that home design, plans and homebuilding can be quite time consuming, and may be quite a strain on you and your family if you try to do too much yourself. It is a big job in itself just to do the new home plans, oversee construction and deal with the numerous, sometimes complex, situations involved in home designs and housebuilding. Plans for every aspect of building your home is the key to a successful project.

Project

Plans for every aspect of building your home is the key to a successful project. With good blue prints, by the time construction begins, you should be able to supervise the project from in front of your TV. You want to be very clear about the overall costs to ensure that you can afford to finish and maintain your project.

Finding Contractors

Unless you are buying a house that is already standing or in a subdivision tract, you will most likely need to choose and employ the services of an architect and/or builder. Individuals who perform the function of a builder are often referred to as Owner Builders. Here are the things you must know in order to be on equal footing with your home builder: How to avoid the model home trap used by every big builder. How to prevent your builder's assembly line construction techniques from getting in the way of the quality and craftsmanship you deserve. How to discover if your new home builder is telling the truth about claims of superior quality and customer satisfaction. How to prevent damaging mold growth that has become common in new homes. The tactics used by new home sales people to "up-sell" and persuade you to unnecessarily spend thousands of extra dollars. How your builderys attorneys are working overtime to make sure they have the upper hand.

Cost

By acting as your own general contractor you can expect to save from 15 to 40percent on the cost homebuilding. How much a house costs, how it looks, how comfortable it is, how energy-efficient it is--all these things occur on paper before you pick up even one tool. The result is houses end up being more costly and less energy-efficient than they should be. It is important to estimate how much it is going to cost you to buy the land and build the house.

As mentioned in order to build a new home you need to be organized and patient. Make sure you look at the Building Home Checklist. This is a must have tool considering building a new home.

Wishing you the best

http://CBMalls.BlogSpot.Com
The leading iMall for all of your informational needs.

Sean McAlister is a leading marketing and sales professional with over 15 years in the industry. A leading and trusted resource for product reviews and product research.

Advantages of Floor Tiles

Floor tiles are very popular these days. Let's face it, unless you plan on cultivating mold in your kitchen or bathroom, carpet is a big no-no. Carpet is also quite good at holding onto smells, and as we all know, the kitchen and bathroom can be quite smelly places from time to time.

This now leaves you with 2 viable options. Wood flooring or tiled flooring.

Although some prefer the look, wood is not as durable as tiles and can become easily damaged by damp which is common in a kitchen and bathroom environment. This leaves us with the sensible option. Tiles.

Let's take a look at some of the advantages of a tiled floor and then some disadvantages:

Tiles come in thousands of variations so there is bound to be a look out there to suit your tastes.

Easy to keep clean. This is true even more so with larger tiles. For the ultimate in easy maintenance take a look at some glass tiles.

Tiles are (mostly) waterproof.

If you break a tile, you only have to replace 1 tile.

Tiles can be quieter than, say, laminate flooring which carries sound from room to room.

Now the disadvantages:
The tiles can be cold (although in warmer climates, this could be seen as an advantage).

On a wet floor, some tiles can become slippery which may be of concern if you are elderly or have elderly relatives visiting.

Tiles can be broken by dropping something heavy on them.

Tiles can be quite expensive.

Can be tricky to install if inexperienced.

Tile is heavy. Check to make sure your floor can handle the weight.

With all the pro's and con's of tiles laid out, you can now make an educated decision as to whether or not to tile your floor.

See a large selection of Floor Tiles

Don't Make This Mistake When Buying a Home

Home purchasing checklists provide protection for consumers with useful information for future home repairs or current home repairs that will need to be done before the home is sold. Home inspectors often use checklists like these, while they're inspecting the home.

If more home shoppers used home inspection checklist while shopping for houses, we would probably have more satisfied homebuyers than dissatisfied ones. Recently just purchasing a home, we had our real estate professional, the previous homeowner's real estate professional and a mortgage lender, involved in the purchase of the property.

There was a home inspection report from the current homeowners, available for us to look at. It provided us with the damaged parts of the home that were repaired or replaced. Some of these repairs were from termite damage and it was stated so on the report. This was helpful information for us as we walked around the home inspecting it for damage.

The work that was repaired to look satisfactory and the rest of the home had minor damage. Listening to one of the real estate sales people that were involved in the transaction, you would've thought we would get in the deal of a lifetime and they had nothing but good news to say about the product they were representing. I easily understood that, this person could have influenced some one into believing that the home was in great shape, if they didn't have a home inspection checklist with them.

The home had been re-carpeted, painted and was in generally good shape. The problems with the home, were the old windows that were hard to open, the heating unit leaked gas, the tile flooring that ran through the kitchen and a large room addition looked great, except for one thing, they installed the tile over linoleum.

This eventually will have to be replaced as the tile starts to separate from the linoleum. While I'm writing this article, there's about 40 square feet of tile that needs to be replaced, because it's popping up and cracking.

A home purchasing checklist does not guarantee that you will find everything but can't eliminate some of the things that homeowners have the biggest problems with. If you could just eliminate one of these problems, the small price of purchasing, one of these checklists would be worth it.

Home purchasing checklists provide protection for the shopper and I would recommend, never shopping for a home without one.

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

By Greg Vanden Berge

The Best Showerheads For Your Enclosures

A decent showerhead will make all the difference to your time spent in a shower. If the water comes out in an ineffectual lukewarm trickle, there will be nothing pleasant about showering. A top-of-the-range, powerful showerhead not only looks stylish but also offers the best water pressure and temperature control. Here are some of the latest, luxury shower heads available:.

The Dornbracht Rainsky range is only for large shower enclosures. The water comes down in a curtain of warm, velvety water from a flat, square silver shower head that is over 82cm wide. The name, Rainsky, is appropriate as it feels as if you are standing under a warm summer rain when you are underneath this contemporary showerhead. If you have a smaller shower space, the Dornbracht Justrain comes at 40cm wide. It offers a similar showering experience to the Rainsky, but on a smaller scale.

If you enjoy an undersea experience the octopus-shaped shower head from Adbatnos, Cloudburst may be just right for you. Cloudburst is made from solid brass and is chrome plated. The metal tentacles extend from a round base and the nine-inch wide showerhead looks great in a contemporary bathroom design. If you enjoy the uniqueness of a star-shaped showerhead, you'll love the Lacava star-shaped showerhead that is the same size as the Cloudburst. It extends from the ceiling with an arm and looks like something that belongs on a stylish, modern spacecraft.

Back to the more traditional circular showerheads, the Sloane showerheads were originally built for commercial use, and will probably outlive you because they are highly durable. Their look is retro with a contemporary twist. If you like to be completely immersed in water during your shower, you may consider investing in a Hansgrohe Downpour Air Royale. You will certainly feel like royalty under this large dome-shaped showerhead that is 14 inches wide. Air Royale looks very chic and would work well in a variety of bathroom settings.

Modern showerheads make you feel as if you are experiencing a shower in the outdoors, as the water comes down as a gentle waterfall or as soft rain. There is a greater variety of showerhead designs available than ever before, and these come in every conceivable shape and size, to suit all needs.

Frances wrote this article for Taps and Showers 2 Go
Home improvement direct to your door
Taps and Showers is the UK's largest range of interior installations for your home.

Tips on How to Finish a Basement Wall

The walls are something you should take account of when you finish a basement. Finishing a basement is very important if you want your basement not only to look good. The walls in the basement are very important because they provide the structure for your basement and carry the weight of your home above it.

Tip 1: Make sure your walls are dry enough to work with.

Check how much moisture content your wall has. If it has too much moisture, there are probably leaks either on the walls itself or on the floor.

Tip 2: Install drywall.

Installing drywall to your concrete walls does not take a genius. It is also more time efficient as compared to applying plaster instead. Drywall is also made out of gypsum that helps prevent the spread of fire. When attaching your drywall, make sure that nothing is protruding on its surface (ex. nails).

Tip 3: Add furring strips

Furring strips will prevent water from leaking in your basement and will provide a more leveled wall to work with. A leveled working surface is very important when you finish a basement.

Tip 4: Insulation and Vapor Barriers

Attaching both of them, will aid in possible heat-related problems in your basement .Insulation is important or less heat loss. It is needed to help maintain a suitable room temperature especially during the cold months.

Tip 5: Design your walls.

The design of your walls is really up to you. You can paint over the surface of the drywall or create a textured finish with the use of wooden boards and other similar materials.
To finish a basement wall is one of the few things you should remember if you want to be able to enjoy your basement longer.

Want to learn how to decorate your basement wall a little more creatively? Discover practical basement remodeling ideas online and turn cheap basement ideas into dream basements at a budget.

Prefabricated Building Materials

Prefabricated building materials are used for buildings that are manufactured off site and shipped later to assemble at the final location. Some of the commonly used prefabricated building materials are aluminum, steel, wood, fiberglass and concrete.

Prefabricated metal buildings use galvanized steel and galvalume as the chief materials for building. Galvalume is a form of steel coated with aluminum-zinc. This is to protect the building against corrosion, rust and fire. It also provides a sturdy and protective covering to the prefabricated building. Almost all the components of a metal building such as beams, frames, columns, walls and roofs, are made of steel. Most prefabricated military buildings use steel or aluminum frames. Synthetic materials are used for the walls and roofs. To provide enhanced security, a combination of both metal and cloth materials are used. Plastic flooring materials can be quickly assembled and are very durable.

Prefabricated building materials used for small prefabricated buildings are steel, wood, fiberglass, plastic or aluminum materials. These materials are cheaper than regular brick and concrete buildings. Materials like steel, fiberglass, wood and aluminum are used as prefabricated building materials for sports buildings. These materials provide flexibility and are preferred for making structures and accessories like stands and seats for stadium and gyms.

For making low cost houses, prefabricated materials like straw bale, Ferro cement, Calcium silicate products, composites and other cheap wood based materials are currently being used. Calcium silicate bricks are strong and durable. Ferro cement consists of a cement matrix reinforced with a mesh of closely-spaced iron rods or wires. In this type of construction, the techniques used are simple and quick.

Using prefabricated materials one can make durable, water and fire resistant and cheap prefabricated buildings. Most of the prefabricated building materials are eco-friendly and affordable.

Prefabricated Buildings provides detailed information on prefabricated building, prefabricated metal buildings, small prefabricated buildings, prefabricated building manufacturers and more. Prefabricated Buildings is affiliated with Manufactured Home Floor Plans.

Bathroom Alterations

Updating your home can be a fun and highly worthwhile project if you do your research accurately. Visualize the luxury of your own personal spa or sauna in your restroom! Remodeling can, unfortunately, also be highly stressful if you jump into a large project without knowing what to expect. Remodeling the bathroom can be particularly difficult-you must think about not only comfort and style, but also practicality and safety. It's also vitally essential that a bathroom project be finished using high-quality materials, by someone who knows what they're doing. A poorly-planned and badly-executed remodel may end-up in a badly-ventilated bathroom with damp, mold, and mildew issues, and that resort-style bathroom complete with spa tub might end up a water-logged nightmare.

For anxiety free remodeling, make as many of the chief decisions that you can ahead of time. This includes picking more than one option for each item that you plan to replace. It is rather common for an item to become unavailable or out of supply. Additionally, your budget may not end up allowing for the items that you picked originally. If that is the case, if you have a second or third choice lined up, you will be able to easily change gears without much fuss. You also need to plan to make changes to your original ideas. Decide before you begin what you absolutely must have and what you can live without. Perhaps you can't live without that new light fixture you picked out, but the faucet may be something you are willing to compromise on. Thinking about these possible issues will lead to the most stress free remodeling project achievable.

When mapping out your budget for the project, it's important to over-estimate the amount of money it's going to cost. If you're employing a contractor, add around ten percent of the bid to your budget, to make room for any surprise expenses that might crop up. If you're taking on the project yourself, add fifteen to twenty percent to your supply budget to come up with your total budget. Chances are you won't need the extra money, but if you do, you'll be glad to have that money put in reserve so it's available right when you need it.

Some things will add value to your bathroom and make it much more appealing to a buyer. For example, adding a sauna or hot tub to your bathroom will not simply make your home more enjoyable for you, but it will grab the eye of buyers later on as well. Adding a luxury item like a spa or sauna will make your whole home feel more luxurious.

As inviting as a new spa or sauna will make your home, it is also important to keep in mind that these kinds of items will most likely make your renovation project more difficult. You will have to factor in a higher cost for your project as well. Also consider that depending on what size and shape your bathroom is now; you might have to make structural changes that can be complicated and expensive.

A spa is a primary example. Prior to installing a spa, you have to make sure that the floor can handle the extra weight of a spa. A skilled electrician will have to be hired in order to install the right electrical equipment and to make sure that your new equipment falls within safety and code guidelines. If you need other types of work done, you may have to hire a carpenter as well.

Even though it does add difficulty to a project, installing something like a spa or sauna is valuable because it will add to your enjoyment of your home. When the time comes to put your home on the market, it will also contribute how buyers respond to your home as well.

Find an ideal home to design your luxurious resort-style bathroom in Arizona: Luxury Properties for Sale in AZ and Chandler Private Real Estate.

Solar Lights - An Easy Way to Outdoor Lighting

Solar lights are the safest and easiest kind of outdoor lights to install. Each fixture contains a scientifically designed solar collector panel that converts sunlight into electrical energy. The energy is stored in highly efficient rechargeable batteries which light the fixture at night.

There are some differences between solar lights and incandescent or fluorescent lights. Solar lights are equipped with LED's which stand for light emitting diodes. An LED is a semiconductor device that emits visible light when conducting current. Because of this, solar lights give off a different type of light than incandescent or fluorescent lights. You should not compare wattage in LED units versus incandescent and fluorescent lights. Wattage is a function of power consumption, not brightness. LEDs may not be as bright as a conventional incandescent or fluorescent light.

Solar lights are usually not as bright as other forms of outdoor landscape lighting. The benefit though is that they give off a softer, more subtle accent lighting that makes your outdoors look attractive in the dark.

An advantage of buying solar lights is that LED bulbs will never burn out during the lifetime of the product. Low voltage incandescent and fluorescent systems need bulb replacements often and add cost and inconvenience to the product.

The length of time that the lights stay on is dependent on the amount of sunlight received during the day. This will vary during the seasons and whether the part of the country gets inclement weather. With fully charged batteries, most solar lights stay lit for up to 10 or more hours.
One big advantage of solar lights is that they require no wiring and are very easy to install. Because they run on the sun's energy, they cost nothing to operate. They are environmentally friendly, and help us conserve our fast-depleting regular energy resources.

The only maintenance required for solar lights are occasional cleaning of the panel surface to keep it free of dust and dirt, regular battery checks, and replacing the batteries when required. The batteries are designed to withstand a minimum of 1000 deep discharges which is at least 1000 nights of light. They are readily available and easy to replace, rechargeable batteries.

The LED's in solar lights are not replaceable. However, their life expectancy typically exceeds 25 years, based on running 10 hours every night. With this durability, LED bulbs will never burn out during the lifetime of the product.

Jerome Sturgeleski started a website in May of 2005 when he decided to share his passion for enjoying his yard after hours. He thought that if his newly renovated landscaping project could be lighted after dark it would be enjoyable even in evening hours. He started small and is now offering many different types of solar lighting that would fit in in any number of applications.

Vessel Sinks Work With Antiques

We all need a sink to clean up in, and the proliferation of great designer vessel sinks has opened a world of possibilities to recycle all manner of antique cabinets, chests and tables as vanity cabinets. Endless design possibilities can create a truly unique bathroom in almost any style. Juxtaposing historic pieces with contemporary fittings generates excitement, and many vessel sinks cleverly mounted on cabinets are really works of art. Sinks are available in countless styles and colors of glass, painted porcelain, brass, copper and nickel.

Faucets have many different finishes in traditional and modern configurations. Antique and vintage dressers, sideboards, writing tables, work benches, and baker's tables can all be recycled into sink cabinets that are one of a kind, reflecting your individual taste and creativity. Many of these pieces are much less expensive than than the charmless mass-produced cabinets seen in home centers and bath design shops. It takes a little more planning and vision, but the result is certainly worthwhile.

An example uses a late Victorian or Eastlake washstand from the 1880's. Originally made for a bedroom in the days before plumbing, a bowl and pitcher would have sat on the marble top, and the waste jug would have been behind the door on the bottom. Built of solid walnut, the original beveled mirror and marble top were fitted to accommodate a glass vessel sink and brushed nickel contemporary faucet. The stunning result is functional and truly unique. A craftsman easily drilled the marble top, made adjustments to the interior of the chest, and the installation was relatively simple. The result is an elegant and historic look.

Another bathroom recycles an Art Deco cabinet from about 1930 that was meant to hold sheet music next to a piano. Now fitted with a textured glass vessel sink and a waterfall faucet, this adaptation of an antique piece was even simpler. Compact enough for a small bathroom, this installation is bright and cheerful with the clean, sleek lines of the 1930's.

Countless antique and vintage pieces of furniture can be adapted to hold a sink. I suggest ignoring the original function of the furniture, judge how much the piece appeals to you, and consider its size and scale for your project. Take the time to find a piece you really like to live with. As Willie Nelson says, "The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese." Bathroom sinks can be so much more fun than the "hospital equipment" look of the past. Surprisingly, historic cabinets are the latest innovation not only in bathrooms, but in kitchens as well, anywhere a sink would be convenient. Go for an exciting or timeless look - "Exuberance is beauty," according to William Blake. Of course, recycling a historic piece is so much better for our environment as well.

Ken Melchert is a co-owner of The Harp Gallery, a renowned antique furniture gallery located in Appleton, WI. Ken and his wife Rebecca have been selling and restoring superior antique furniture for over 20 years. Visit their store online: Harp Gallery Antique Furniture

Sloping Floors in Your House

If you've ever been in a building where you feel like you are getting pushed to one side and you can't seem to stand up. You have either been drinking too much alcohol or the floor could be sloping. I was just in a store the other day that was full of antiques and glass but I could hardly stand up because the floor was sloping enough to create what I would consider a liability issue to the store owner.

Sloping floors are not going to be that easy to fix and repair. Repairing these floors will require a little skill and it would be a good idea to hire a professional to repair the damage. This is not going to be a simple fix and this is probably the main reason most people never choose to fix their sloping floors.

Fixing these floors will require either pouring a new concrete slab, replacing the wood floor framing members or replacing the actual building foundation itself. No matter how you look at it the sloping floor is going to be a costly item to repair.

What causes a sloping floor? Termite damage or dry rot destroying the wood framing or it could be as simple as a water leak over a long period of time causing the building foundation to sink and become out of level. Poor soil conditions with either too sandy or an expansive clay soil could be the culprit also.

Sloping floors can be damaged from incorrect landscape drainage. This would involve water settling around the foundation of your home and over a period of time the weight of the house along with soil problems can create the building to start sloping to one side.

The number one contributor to a sloping floor again like most damage done to a house is going to be water. Do your best to keep the water away from the house using roof gutters and landscape drains. These items are relatively inexpensive compared to the costs involved in repairing sloping floors.

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

Find out more about Water Damage.

Categorizing Walk-in Tubs and Baths

There are so many things that we see everyday in life and get so used to that we do not even stop to think about them. No one thinks of what goes behind mundane, everyday products. No thought is spared to others who might not be as physically capable as us, for whom even simple activities are pretty difficult. The same is the case with bathtubs. Everybody is so used to getting in and out of them that no one thinks why so many types of walk-in baths and tubs are available. Spare a thought to the physically handicapped or the senior citizens. The elderly cannot get into a bathtub as easily as we do. Stiff joints and arthritis hinder them at every turn. With painful joints, every simple routine becomes an enormous task for those people.

The physically challenged or those suffering from other health related problems too have a tough time getting into or out of the bath. Nowadays at least there are walk-in tubs and baths but imagine a time before this. They had to be carried in and out of the bath! Those who needed support of the wheelchair or had other physical difficulty had to suffer a lot. They needed assistance for even taking a bath.

But thankfully, things have changed now. Now, there are tubs coming into market these days that are designed to make bath easier. They can easily get into a bath and get out of a bath as easily. There are tubs in different sizes. Safety Tubs have been a blessing to those who struggled into and out of bath. These Safety Tubs can fit into any space and come in a variety of sizes. There are walk-in baths of 513 x 303 length and breadth. This size is ideal for normal or traditional sized bathroom. If there is more space and there is preference for a spacious bath tub603 long x 323 wide can be tried. If there are space constrains, walk-in bathtub that are 513 long and 263 wide could be installed.

But this is not all. Apart from the 3 sizes of walk-in tubs, extension kits are also available. This ensures that the tubs can be fitted perfectly into custom spaces and are of required standards. Included in this can be 203 width panel that is a very good fit between the wall and the end of the tub near the wall. This panel can also be adjusted according to needs of the customers.

The wide range of walk-in tubs and baths cater a variety of needs of the people using them. Each person has a different "ideal" bath or tub according to his or her particular problem. The simplest of these are the walk-in showers or baths. These showers or baths are taken in an upright position so the one taking a bath is spared the torture of sitting down and getting up. Walk-in tubs are the other option. They have doors on the side, so there is no reason to struggle in or lift up.

Looking for information about walk-in tubs and showers

Theodor Cartman recommends different types of walk-in tubs and showers as the best option when buying.

Vinyl Log Siding

My sister lives in Tennessee and for years has been suggesting I move there and have a log cabin built. But I've always been put off by the possible complications involved in building a log cabin. I also worried that it would require a lot of exterior maintenance and might not be warm enough in the winter.

However, on a recent trip I spoke with a Tennessee builder who showed me log cabins which are actually made with vinyl log siding instead of wood logs. The cabins looked so real that at first I didn't realize they weren't wood.

I learned that construction of vinyl log siding cabins can actually be easier than building a conventional cabin. For one thing, the siding comes in lengths from 10 feet to 16 feet, making it easy to customize a home. There are also several siding styles to choose from, including Pine, Peeled Pine and Cedar Embossed. There is also a choice of saddle-notch, round, or square corners.

The exterior of a cabin built with vinyl log siding is maintenance free. The finished cabin is sealed with several coats of sealer and is well protected. And, unlike wood logs, vinyl log siding is not susceptible to insect or rot damage. Since the siding is filled with foam backing, it is dent free, and there is no need for the typical twice-a-year cleaning recommended for traditional wood cabins.

The builder also explained that the siding, which should be expertly installed, will provide several structural advantages. For one thing, the R-value of vinyl log siding, which determines the level of thermal resistance, is four times higher than real logs. Vinyl log siding can also help filter noise and pollution as well as allow moisture to escape so that the walls can "breath". This helps prevent mildew and rot problems.

The fact that the cabin's interior walls can be any style can save time and money during construction since it makes plumbing and electrical installation easier.

After weighing all of the advantages, I finally committed to a cabin when the builder offered a 75 year limited transferable lifetime warranty.

The cabin I chose has charm, beauty, and is virtually maintenance free.

Learn About Vinyl Log Siding by visiting http://www.vinylsidingworld.com

Drywall Manufactured in China is Not Dry - Neither is it Safe

Respiratory issues, other health problems and frequent appliance failures are only a few of the problems claimed to be caused by "Chinese Drywall". Drywall is a flat board made from gypsum plaster. It is used to create interior walls for its economical cost, smooth appearance and fire-resistance. However, it seems that many Florida homeowners are having problems in homes where drywall manufactured in China has been installed.

The housing boom in the early-mid part of the decade has been noted as the beginning of this problem. Normally, drywall is bought from domestic producers, but the boom caused shortages, so some home builders, particularly in Florida, purchased drywall shipped in from China. Only a few years later, in 2009, there appears to be something rotten in the State of Florida.

Home owners have reported everything from sore throats to unexplained personality changes in their pets. Everything in between includes: respiratory problems, headaches and nosebleeds, pet ill health, nasty sulfur odors with no apparent source and a general feeling of malaise. Homeowners with young children or those who are expecting are refusing to return to the houses they bought, for fear it might damage their children's health.

Despite the Florida Department of Health's assurance that there is "no immediate health threat", homeowners remain unconvinced about the "un-immediate" health threats lurking in their homes. The experience of some homeowners, who felt 'miraculously' better when traveling away from their residences for an extended period of time, has convinced many that the problem lies within the homes and could constitute a threat to their continued health and safety.

One theory is that the drywall isn't gypsum at all, but a less appetizing mix of waste from power plant scrubbers. This would explain the high content of sulfur-based gases that are being emitted from some of the drywall examined, and for the rapid deterioration of electrical connections and household appliances. Some gases named as being present in tested board include hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide, carbon disulfide, and carbonyl sulfide. Fumes from hydrogen sulfide can cause severe respiratory distress and death.

Sulphur-based gases produce something else when they come into contact with moisture: sulfuric acid, which eats away at many materials like a beaver in an aspen grove. This can explain while many people have gone through three or more appliances in five years when the appliance itself should be lasting for ten or twenty. Air conditioners, TVs and other common household appliances are being affected as well as medical equipment. While not having a TV working can be an annoyance, not having one's dialysis machine or heart monitor functioning can be serious or even fatal.

The drywall problem, combined with other issues relating to toxic materials found in other items produced in China is leading to a demand for tighter regulations and inspections. Also, for provisions that address the needs of homeowners faced with homelessness because they dare not re-enter their homes due to health concerns. Some home builders are addressing this by relocating families while they conduct tests, but many homeowners are fighting with their home builders who say that there is no appreciable health risk.

The "Chinese drywall" problem is something we are likely to hear more about in the very near future. For now, it behooves those who are purchasing new homes to find out where their drywall comes from and avoid anything with a "Made in China" label.

Jerry Clifford has received the prestigious 100% Club award for his success as a real estate agent in the Minneapolis real estate area. He is certified as an ePRO and prides himself on attention to detail. If you need help in your search for Plymouth Minnesota real estate, visit JerryClifford.com.

Turn Your Bathroom Into a Spa

Going to the spa is a treat for most people. It is a long-deserved mini-vacation from the working world or just the pressures of family and other responsibilities. The spa experience can help rejuvenate not only the body, but also the mind, however, these trips come at a cost in both the wallet and in time traveled. Instead, you may want to consider modern bathroom designs that incorporate spa features to help give you a place to escape.

Starting with the right shower

Modern bathroom designs for spa settings need to include a proper shower. This shower might include various options, such as:

• Detachable shower head
• Multiple settings on the shower head, massage, mist, etc.
• Lotion, shampoo, and conditioner dispensers
• Added shower spouts that direct water from floor of shower as well
• Waterfall shower action

The sky is really the limit when it comes to bathroom spa features. You can also find a number of modern bathroom designs for whirlpool and Jacuzzi bathtubs that can give you a nice place to soak your worries away. You can also easily install a shower head without spending a lot of money in the process.

Turning to the sink

Vessel bathroom sinks are a luxurious way to add ambience to your spa like bathroom. They make a bathroom look modern and provide the perfect setting for facial treatments and scrubs. With the extended basin edge, you can drape a towel over your head as you fill the basin with hot water to steam your pores before applying various masks or toners. You can also easily rinse your face of scrubs and microdermabrasion kits, as well as your hair if you plan on a shine infusing treatment.

Bathroom vanities hold your tools

Choosing the right bathroom vanities will help you ensure that you are getting the right spa surfaces for your various treatments and plans. Try to find vanities with larger surface areas to spread your lotions and potions out on, but also with a large amount of storage space underneath to hide your products from wandering hands. When you have a neat and organized spot, it will be easier for you to access your spa goodies as well as use them on a regular basis. Think about picking up:

• Deep conditioner for your hair
• Bubble bath or mineral salt bath
• Loofah and exfoliating scrubs
• Various clay and mud facial and body masks
• Lotions for the skin

And other accessories

Modern bathroom designs that are geared to the spa experience can also include things like seating for you to sit in front of your vanity as well as decorative installations like fountains and music players. You can easily install a waterproof mp3 player in your shower to play soothing tropical sounds or just your favorite band. Tailor your spa experience to your mood in this way.

Other options to consider:

• A fluffy robe to lounge around in
• Large bathroom mirrors
• Decorative shower curtains as well as accessories that add to a theme that you enjoy

Modern bathroom designs can create the spa experience without your having to leave the house or leave a tip. With the right bathroom accessories, you can create a relaxing adventure any day of the week.

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

Bathtub Refinishing Fumes - How To Protect Yourself

Bathtub refinishing is being used more by hotels, apartment complexes and homeowners because of a housing downturn, a mortgage-meltdown, and overall depressed and depressing economy as a way to save money in their bathroom renovation. Another interest in re-glazing is being fueled by informed masses who have shown a continued interest in "greening" their homes, particularly in making them more energy efficient. Consumers are looking for ways to save money, and the environment and that is what bathtub refinishing does- provide savings of up to 80% over replacement while sparing the landfills.

But unlike other services like carpet cleaning, plumbing, pest control etc, where consumers know what to expect from their service contractor, tub re-glazing business is unknown to many. And because of this lack of knowledge, many don't know what the process involves, what to expect and what the the final outcome will be. Here is the bathtub refinishing process in a nutshell: A tub is cleaned, fully etched, cleaned, prime coated andtop coated.

The equipments used are a turbine, a sprayer and a big exhaust fan. The protective equipment is similar to what you'll see used in mold remediation or asbestos removal. If the fumes coming out of the bathroom are not healthy for the one doing the refinishing in the bathroom, do you think it is safe for you, your pets and especially younger and older ones in the home?

Many bathtub refinishing companies will tell you that they use a proprietary coating formulated by them and for them. Ask for their sacred MSDS. It contained enough toxic materials to make their technicians suit up as if cleaning a room full of asbestos. Water based coatings are getting better but water condenses in the bathroom and on the tub. Go figure. Every etching product contain some level of acid. The concentration of VOC's is high. Unfortunately, from the biggest bathtub refinishing companies to the small town bathtub refinishing company using exhaust fans to get rid of the fumes and their smell. They leave a lot of toxic fumes and smell that linger for days.

There are air scrubbers that can suck up those fumes and odors and still keep the environment?
These portable systems operate in a completely sealed off bathroom. They are quiet, so that guests and tenants that sleep on while bathtub re-glazing is done next room. In fact, some companies are using hospital grade air scrubbers while re-glazing a tub because of the importance these companies put on the health of their customers and the environmental impact of their work. These portable units are in the bathrooms where the re-glazing is done.

All the fumes and odors are captured and there is no hoses or cords coming out of the bathroom as a safety hazard. The technology is here. Next time you call your friendly bathtub refinishing company, ask them how they are going to mitigate the odor and fumes. If they are still using old technology with its environmental impact in this century, they are not your company. Ask questions, protect your health, and those of your hotel guests and apartment tenants.

The sluggish economy is forcing hotels and hotel chains, to find creative ways to save money and the environment as they remodel their bathrooms. Many are concerned about the effects of over-spray fumes on their guests and their health, the noise created by antiquated bathtub refinishing systems, the impact of old technology on the environment. Ask questions and lots of them before you hire your next friendly bathtub refinishing company.

Wilson Uche Ukah, is the President of Refinishing Stars, a bathtub refinishing company serving the bathtub reglazing needs of homeowners in Atlanta, Chattanooga, Nashville and Knoxville. Refinishing Stars, refinishes bathtubs, sinks, and countertops for hotels and motels nationwide. Wilson writes regularly on green remodeling and is a consultant to other bathtub refinishing companies. He can be reached at http://www.refinishingstars.com or sales@refinishingstars.com

Why a Successful Bathroom Remodeling Plan is Necessary?

If anyone of you is interested in bathroom remodeling, he must also be interested in saving his money, which gets spent without letting you know if you are unaware of depths and heights of bathroom remodeling strategies. The most essential thing you would need for remodeling is a proper plan. If your plan has been perfectly made, taking in notice all the problems that might occur, there is rarely a chance that you would come across any kind of troubles. Besides, your project would be adored.

If you follow the step-to-step guide for bathroom remodeling, the very first thing to reckon is the purpose of doing such a project? The whole remodeling plan would be made upon your choice that whether the purpose of remodeling is to enhance the resale value of your property or your own convenience and taste. If you have a clear-cut idea about this, your bathroom remodeling plan is going to be very successful. This is what majority of people don't pay attention to. They just start planning a bathroom remodeling plan without going through several minor but important points.

However, just knowing and realizing the purpose of your bathroom remodeling plan is not going to help you in all the cases. Sometimes, your desired plan exceeds your budget; and making a budget is a whole different story. It includes costs of materials, contractors, plumbers, electricians and several other things that become the basic constituents of a bathroom remodel. You need to align your plan with your budget. Asking a local home improvement store's owner would be helpful for you if you are not market savvy. However, compromising on bad quality with a low cost is the most rejected idea. It will keep your pockets heavy for a while but later, you would always be in trouble until you plan a new remodel.

Besides, you need to keep extra money available for your budget. There are cases when something unexpected happens. Costs may increase and your project may get delayed. In such cases, you need money the most. You can also come up with new ideas in between the project. Making them possible won't just be a theory; it would only work with money.

You need to keep these basic things in your mind when making a bathroom remodeling plan. You can do some of the remodeling projects yourself but not all of them. In case you don't know anything about carrying out any such operation, don't make false assumptions that you would be able to do it because it won't be a time of experiments. Saving money and brilliantly completing a bathroom remodeling project must be your basic motto.

For knowing more about bathroom remodeling, you can visit http://www.theyarelocal.com/articles/remodeling/index.php

Keys To Replacing Old Doors And Windows

Several businesses around the Irvine region offer a complete service for doors and windows at competitive prices. However, deciding which company to go with is a little more difficult. Homeowners who have decided to replace their existing doors and windows with a more energy-efficient glass should take many issues into consideration when deciding on which company to use.

Many companies in the Irvine region will offer excellent prices on the replacement of doors and windows. However, many of these companies will use inferior materials to save money. Many homeowners may be tempted to use these companies solely based on price, but cutting corners when it comes to your doors and windows will end up costing you in the long run.

Choosing the right doors and windows to complete your renovation of your home is an important first step. Energy efficient windows and doors can keep out the heat or cold weather. When doors and windows are built with inferior quality materials, they are not able to keep out all of the inclement weather, making it necessary to run the heater or air conditioning longer during the day. Energy efficient windows can, for example, keep the heat of direct sunlight from transferring into your home, keep the cold wind during winter out.

In the Irvine region, the heat of summer can often bring people's electricity bills into the hundreds of dollars per month. However, with a small investment, you can buy doors and windows that will lower your bills and give you a few hundred dollars per year in savings. This type of investment will pay for itself over just a few years, making it indispensable for any Irvine homeowner to replace their decaying doors and windows.

Accompany your new doors and windows with new technology that keeps your home energy efficient by lowering the amount of heat lost through the roof. By using modern insulation, homeowners can save significantly on their heating bills during the winter.

So when it comes time to remodel your home, don't just look for the company that offers you the cheapest price to replace your windows and doors. Rather, look for a company that uses the best materials and modern glass technologies to give you the greatest savings in the future. A few extra dollars in your original investment to remodel your home will reap benefits immediately as you begin to realize incredible savings on your electricity and gas bill.

Need more on windows and doors? Cal Windows and Doors specializes in bringing you information about the best such as Peachtree Windows and Doors and other high-quality companies. Learn how to prepare your home for sale with upgraded windows and doors and other great tips on how to get beautiful windows for your home.

Corner Ceiling Water Damage
Damaged Wood Window

Why Should You Install a New Bath Tub Surround?

Many homeowners are being forced to deal with costly bathroom remodels for their aging bathrooms. The major expense is incurred with bathtubs and their surrounding tile walls which have historically been the wall coverings of choice in bathrooms across the country. Although tile was a durable choice for the time, over the years it has cracked, rusted, and lost its nice shiny look. Besides, some people are still living with the ghastly color schemes, like pink and green, that were popular back in the '50s.

Homeowners now have quick, easy, and less expensive options to removing old tile, grout, and caulking. They can now purchase bathtub surrounds and liners and just cover over the problems. Surrounds come in a number of different colors and finishes, so you're sure to find something that will add a positive look to your dcor. They are made from the durable plastics acrylic and PVC and receive rigorous testing to make sure they won't crack under impact. They are guaranteed not to stain, chip, or crack during normal use.

You'll find it easy cleaning your new bathtub surround. That old hard-to-clean grout will be history. It will have been replaced by a smooth finish that wipes clean in a jiffy. There are even automatic shower cleaners on the market that claim that a couple of sprays a day are all it takes to keep your tub looking clean and new.

Another reason people are opting for tub surrounds is that they are so easy to install. You will find that home improvement stores carry a variety of surrounds that you'll be able to install in just one day. You'll only have to remove the faucets in order to slide the surround right over the existing surface. Replace the faucets and seal the edges with caulk, then all you have to do is let the caulk cure, and your bathroom will have a whole new look.

Using these wonderful new products saves a great deal of hassle for homeowners. You no longer have to do without a bathroom or share one with others for days on end in order to do a remodel. Besides, a tub surround is a much more cost-effective way to eliminate the eyesore of old tiles, and the installation process is both quick and easy for most do-it-yourselfers.

Even if you consider yourself mechanically challenged, you can hire a professional to install a tub surround for you. A company rep will come to your house and take measurements before ordering your surround direct from the manufacturing facility. Although it will take a couple of weeks for your installer to receive your custom surround, the installation will be super quick. Whether you install a surround yourself or hire a professional to do it for you, you'll be happy at the difference the bathtub surround can make in the overall look of your bathroom.

Visit us for more information on Premier Bath Tubs and refinishing a bathtub.

Active Subterranean Termites
Cardboard Box Stain In Closet

Dangers For Basement Waterproofing - Carlsbad Construction

One of the most fundamental elements of any good drainage system for protecting your home's foundation walls from water damage are footer drains, which act as conduits to move excess groundwater away from your basement. Footer drains are not a new modern concept, and have been around for many years. Still, the materials used to construct footer drains today are superior to those used years ago, which deteriorate and become ineffective over the years. Traditionally, basement waterproofing footer drains were made using clay tile, which worked well at the time. But if your house is several decades old, these clay footer drain tiles may be losing their effectiveness.

The problem with clay tile pipes and drains is that they can deteriorate over time, and develop cracks, breaks and slips that allows sediment and tree roots into the system. When enough roots and dirt have clogged a clay footer drain, it can become completely blocked and no longer allow the conveyance of water out away from your foundation. And if this happens, it's only a matter of time until excess groundwater builds up around your basement walls and begins to cause problems like water damage, mold, mildew, cracking and leaking. Any of these can end up being much more expensive to fix than simply fixing your current clay footer drain tiles.

That's not to suggest that you will necessarily have to replace your clay footer drains with modern PVC pipe drains in order to solve your basement waterproofing problem. on the contrary, in many cases your clay footer drains can be serviced by simply tapping into one corner of the drainage system and cleaning the drain itself. This is possible with either a drain snake auger or a high-pressure water jetting system, which can blast obstructions out of the drain and allow water to flow freely through it again.

If, however, your clay footer drain tiles are severely cracked, broken or slipped out of place, it may be necessary to replace some or all of your foundation drainage system. This can involve an extensive amount of work, since a complete excavation of your foundation is necessary to reach the footer drains themselves. And if your basement walls have been significantly damaged by hydrostatic pressure already, it may be necessary to also replace the blocks themselves, as well. As you can tell, it's better to service your existing clay footer drains to work properly before the damage becomes irreversible.

The advantage of having modern, perforated PVC pipe footer drains is that the materials are vastly more durable than clay and last longer without the need to clean them out as often. While newly constructed homes are now built using modern drainage materials, older homes that were built before PVC pipe may have to be serviced more often to ensure that there is no flooding or water damage in your basement. By having your clay footer drain tiles serviced regularly by professional drain cleaners, you can ensure that costly water damage and flooding issues won't be in your future.

Lorain County Sewer and Drain makes Olmstead Falls basement waterproofing easy and affordable. Visit our site today to learn more about basement waterproofing.

Notch In Top Plate Framing

Remodel Your Home With Cellular PVC - Versatex, AZEK, Certainteed, and TREX

As many of our homes age, maintenance, rot, and replacement become the three principles we live by. Our siding gets replaced, our windows rot out, and our trimboards deteriorate in front of our very eyes. Many times it takes 15-20 years for these effects, but replacing them can be a financial nightmare and can cost us a lot of time and grief. It's often much more economical to take the cheap route and go with the cheapest materials to replace these problems. However, you should consider a few factors to help you make your decision.

First off, homes appreciate in value, so using more expensive materials will often increase the value of your home. If you plan to live there for a while as well and enjoy your new siding, windows, deck, etc. then you may wish to spend a little bit more money for a more permanent solution that lasts and also puts value into the home. No rot composites and other revolutionary materials like cellular PVCs are breaking into the market as newfound alternatives boasting to last a lifetime. Many of these materials have the look and feel of wood too and offer paintable options that other materials like vinyl seem to lack.

The problem is wood is that inevitably it can result in problems. Usually within 10 years signs of rotting, cracking, and peeling have begun to set in. Without repainting over these exposed areas, sunlight and rain will expedite the rot process and lead to other problems such as mold and moisture in the house. It can also lead to higher energy repairs as well. Having good materials almost always save you more money in the long run. They're also selling points if you're trying to sell your house during a housing recession.

Common cellular PVC materials are Versatex, AZEK, and Certainteed. They are commonly used for trim replacement, rotting windows, and even window flower boxes, where wooden flower boxes are notorious for causing problems. Composites like TREX offer composite decking options allowing the look of unpainted wood that lasts much longer. Sidings such as Hardiplank are nice alternatives which last much longer than your traditional wood siding and can pay dividends in the long run. No matter what your budget is, make sure that you don't choose a material just based on cost alone. You should consider all the factors that are important!

Matt Buquoi is the owner of Flower Window Boxes, a window box company that specializes in affordable no rot window boxes. They manufacture and sell direct pvc window boxes which are 100% rot free and impervious to moisture. These no rot window boxes have been featured on The Today Show as "the last window boxes you will ever buy." Please visit their website for more information on affordable no rot solutions.

Treated Plywood Column Framing

FBI and FCC Seek Control of Software Industry

With government agencies, one often has to try to guess what they are hiding. A close look at a FCC policy document released at 9 p.m. on a Friday may shock you.

Controlling Software

The Federal Communications Commission has issued a policy paper that sets free speech back a few thousand years. Yep, the FCC is taking the position that computer software companies must first get approval from the FBI before they will be allowed to put software products on the market. Think about that for a minute and cringe.

The ostensible reason for Big Brothers power grab is, once again, the pursuit of terrorist and bad, bad people. You see, Brother wants to make every software company put a backdoor in their systems that lets Big Brother access your computer on the sly to keep an eye on you. No doubt, many evil people use Adobe and Microsoft products!

Big Brother Out of Control?

Obviously, everyone is interested in catching terrorists and bad guys. The idea of giving the FBI carte blanche power over the software industry, however, goes way beyond such concerns. Let us consider a practical example.

What if construction companies had to seek approval from the FBI before building homes? The ostensible reason would be to make sure the FBI could place cameras and wire taps in every home to monitor and stop terrorist activities. Surely, nobody could disagree with such a noteworthy goal. On the other hand, how would you feel about having cameras in each room of your home?

For a counter argument, government apologists claim that the FBI would watch the computer activity of only a small number of people because the FBI doesnt have the manpower to do anything else. This argument is so much nonsense. Watching computer activity doesnt require manpower. It is a technical function carried out by a software program. The FBI already has such programs, including the controversial green lantern program. If it didnt, why would it want this power?

FBI monitoring programs run automatically. They continually accumulate data, which can be accessed when needed. This data collection can be used in thousands of different ways by hundreds of different agencies. For instance, what if the IRS audits you? What is to stop it from accessing your computer data and looking at all of the sessions you performed online banking? Nothing. The IRS and FBI work hand-in-hand on numerous prosecutions.

The United States is supposed to be the land of the free. Just dont assume as much when using your computer.

Richard A. Chapo is a San Diego business lawyer with http://www.sandiegobusinesslawfirm.com - a San Diego business law firm in San Diego, California.

Kitchen Backsplash Tile Designs - Home Tips

Creating breathtaking kitchen backsplash tile designs is not something that can raise one's hackles. Right? Quite the opposite, actually. With the staggering array of designs in glass, metal, ceramic and stone to choose from, your rather cavalier approach to this very serious task could prove to be the harbinger of gloom. To add to your consternation is the deluge of fabulous colors and spectacular finishes that demand their pound of flesh, a la Shylock.

Discard That Antiquated View

Most homeowners don't really care a fig for the kitchen backsplash, and treat it with an air of disdain. You may like to dismiss it rather nonchalantly as just another too-generic-to-be-effective, functional feature of the kitchen, but the fact remains that this small but supremely significant space can actually transform your kitchen from dull and dreary to dazzling and delightful.

Today's tile designs are more than just the protection that your inanimate wall deserves. They can become the supreme inspiration behind the most artistic of all creations.

Challenge The Natural Order

The best part about tile designs is the simply mind-blowing choice that's available to homeowners. Thankfully, you are liberated from the constraints of the ceramic tile designs. Here's how you can bring about a Renaissance of sorts in your vapid space:

• Metal tiles: Copper, tin or stainless steel, you are treated to the dual benefits of style and substance. And the fusion of a metal backsplash with other metallic features of the kitchen like the faucets and cabinet handles is a marriage that leaves a sterling impact. Retro, modern or country, kitchens will never be the same again.
• Glass tiles: It's their sheer brilliance that causes a flutter. These tiles are ideal for those that are keen to look beyond their inherent advantages of ease of installation and low-maintenance, and want their kitchen to shine and sizzle.
• Stone tiles: Your research on tile designs for the backsplash is incomplete without their redoubtable presence. They leave no stone unturned in sweeping you off your feet.
• Ceramics: The numero uno choice that seems to have carved a niche for itself in the world of tile designs. With a gargantuan range of colors, sizes and prices to choose from, they have made unimaginable leaps to the frontline.

These tile designs certainly have what it takes to gladden the hearts of many.

See exactly how you can easily generate 100's of BRILLIANT Kitchen Backsplash Design Ideas ... F-A-S-T ! See http://www.TrulyLovelyHome.com

Plaster Wall Moisture Problem

How to Replace an Old Window in Your Home

A Guide to Installing a New Window in Your Home

If your old wooden window is drafty, does not open or close well, or is showing signs of water damage and decay, it is probably time to think about replacing it with a new state-of-the-art Low-E glass, vinyl clad window.

Also, if the glass pane associated with your existing old wooden window is foggy or you can feel cold drafts during the winter months emanating out from around it, or you need to hold it open during the summer months with a prop of some sort then it is definitely time to replace it.

Replacing an old window is something a Do It Yourself homeowner can tackle with some basic carpenters knowledge and a few basic carpentry tools that you probably already have in your home.

Purchasing the Proper New Window

Prior to installing a new window you first need to figure out what size window to purchase. The key parameter required when ordering a new window is its rough opening. This is specified by the window manufacturer and tells you how large of an opening you need for installing a specific window. Typically the rough opening is 1 to 2 inches taller and wider than the actual window itself.

You may need to remove the interior trim from around the old window to obtain the rough opening dimensions for your new window.

Make sure you purchase a new window that has rough opening requirements that are equal to or smaller than your measurements.

Removal of the Old Window

Once you have purchased your new window it is time to remove the old one. Using a hammer and a claw remove the old exterior trim and any nails that may be securing the window to the home. There may be a nailing flange around the perimeter of the old window. Simply use your hammer and claw to remove these nails.

With the nails removed the window should be able to be pulled out of the window frame opening.

Installation of the New Window

With the old window out, it is now time to install the new window. Before, installing the new window, make sure the rough window opening is clear of any debris and any old nails.

Place the new window into the window opening and center it within the window frame.

Use a level and a measuring tape to make sure the window is plumb and square, otherwise the window will not work properly. You may need to add some shims to plumb and square up the new window.

Once the window is plumb and square within the window frame, fasten it with a couple of nails. With most new windows they come with a nailing flange that makes nailing the window to the outside home exterior straightforward.

When nailing the window, start on the upper right hand side and work your way down with just a couple of nails. Check again with the level to make sure the window is level and plumb. Also take one more look on the inside of the window to make sure the window is square and centered.

If the window has remained square and plumb, go ahead and install a couple of additional nails on the other side of the window. Again, one at the top, and the other about halfway down the window.

Then go into the home and remove/cut away the retention bands that held the window square during the window installation. Slide the windows up a down and see if they operate smoothly.

If the window operates smoothly go ahead and add additional nails every 4-6 inches around the nailing flange of the window. If it does not, you may need to remove one or more of the initial nails installed and readjust the window to make sure it is plumb and square.

With the window now installed, add new trimboards around the window perimeter on both the inside and outside of the window and enjoy your new view.

For more information on installing a new window, see the Installing a New Window Ebook from HomeAdditionPlus.com. The Installing a New Window Ebook provides easy to understand, step-by-step instructions, on how to remove an old window and install a new one. Pictures are included for every key step in the process.

About the Author: Over the past 20+ years Mark Donovan has been involved with building homes and additions to homes. His projects have included: building a vacation home, building additions and garages on to existing homes, and finishing unfinished homes. For more home improvement information visit http://www.homeadditionplus.com and http://www.homeaddition.blogspot.com

Having a Healthy Contractor Business

Budgeting is one of the biggest pains in the neck in any business including the contractor business. But, any good successful long term contractor knows it is absolutely necessary for success. The mentioning of budgeting can make just about anyone's teeth hurt. This is especially the case with any contractor who loves his or her business because it is all about making something from your skills. Who wants to be sitting with a pencil, paper and calculator figuring out numbers? You want to be out there constructing something. Well, you can get to it right after you figure out your budget!

There are really two budgets you need to have as a contractor. Well, there are more than two but let's use the two major ones as an example. There is the yearly budget where you figure out how much it will cost to stay in business, how much you can generate in sales and how much you want to make in profit. Then there is the project by project budget which has to fit into their yearly budget at certain intervals. Each one has to be done with care with the numbers being as accurate as possible. This is important because too many times people fudge their budgets and then wonder later on why their business failed. Don't fall into that trap.

Anyone in the contractor business needs to be realistic in figuring out there yearly and project by project budgets. There is no sense in lying to yourself, be honest about what you feel you can and cannot do. A reasonable and conservative budget can always be adjusted later on if things go right. But, a sloppy and over optimistic budget can cause some serious financial damage to your company. Every contractor wants to succeed but it is the ones with an obtainable really budget that get ahead. And, in this economy that it is ever more important to have a budget and live by it.

So, yeah it stinks to have to come up with a budget but it is one of the single most important things you can do for your contractor business and you will be happy you did at the end of the year and at the end of each project. Being on budget or ahead of budget feels great! Going the other way can really bring you down, literally. So do your homework and make a budget that works.

Josh Macmichael

http://www.contractorblab.com
http://www.contractorblabblog.com

Mold On Sub Floor Block