Building Stairs With Old Concrete - Remodeling Ideas

What a great idea using your old side walk or driveway to build a nice stairway for your front or back yard. Using the old concrete instead of sending it to the landfill. Wow talk about earth friendly. Who would have thought that using recycled concrete would create a beautiful center piece in your landscaping plans.

That's enough about that lets get to the nuts and bolts of building the stairs. I came across the idea by visiting one of our favorite breakfast stops in Fallbrook. I had been walking down these stairs for quite a while when it dawned on me that the stairs where kind of jagged. When I took a closer look I couldn't figure it out, What kind of building materials did they use.

Then I realized it was recycled concrete in other words someone's old side walk. They even used the old concrete to make some nice planter boxes and retaining walls. The whole area really looks nice. The landscaping created natural look with a old world look to it.

How do I build the stairs using recycled concrete? Simply put first thing you need to do is get some recycled concrete. If you are going to be tearing up a old sidewalk, driveway or patio then you won't have to look far.

If not you can contact some local general or demolition contractors. They would love to have someone haul away their concrete. The reason for this is they have to pay around five hundred dollars for every ten tons hauled away from the jobs they are working on.

The more recycled concrete you need the easier it will be to get it. If you need a lot you will be able to contact a concrete recycling plant and get the phone number to a local contractor that hauls broken up concrete to their plants. These people can drop off a large load if you have a large area to drop it.

Remember that most contractors don't want to be bothered because they are busy working or planning on working. The easier you can make it on the contractor the more likely you will get what you want from them. They usually aren't interested in doing extra work just to make you happy. You can get a lot by being courteous from most people.

Now that you have the concrete you can start building. The concrete will be stacked on top of the other concrete to form the steps. Depending on how long of a stairway you are building you will have to level the dirt and stack the recycled concrete to make the stairs.

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

Visit us now for more great Home Remodeling Tips

Three Reasons to Use a Bath Rug

Do you have a rug in your bathroom? If so, you know that there are many benefits that this brings to your home. But of course, if you have never used one you may not be aware of what it can do for you. It is hard to imagine that a relatively inexpensive item could add so many benefits to your bathroom. But when it comes down to it that is exactly what an area rug can do for you.

So what are the benefits of using a rug in your bathroom? What are the reasons that so many people have decided to do this in their home? Listed below are three of the most common reasons that you should consider using one in your bathroom. If these reasons do not sound good enough, maybe your bathroom is just fine.

1. The number one reason to use a bath rug is the functionality that it will bring. What does this mean, you may ask? Simply put, this gives you a place to step once you get out of the bathtub. Although you may have a bath mat, having a rug underneath is always a great idea. This way, you can be rest assured that 99 percent of the water from your body is not going to hit the floor. And while this may not seem like a big deal, it can help to keep your floors in much better shape.

2. They are a great way to bring color and excitement to your room. If your bathroom needs a new look, there is no better way to do this than a basic rug. You will find them in a wide variety of colors and sizes, which all but ensures that you will be able to find what is right for your room. It may not be the best reason to use a rug, but the way that it will make things look is a definite advantage that you should keep in mind.

3. Simply put, a bath rug is much more comfortable than stepping onto hard floors. No matter what your floors are made of, it is safe to say that they are not going to be comfortable to stand on. But with a good size rug, you can make sure that your feet are always comfortable. Again, this may not be the best reason to buy, but it is one that you should keep in mind nonetheless.

These are three of the best reasons to add a rug to your bathroom. If you have never used one of these, you are probably not aware of how much you can benefit from them. For a relatively inexpensive price, you should not have any problems finding a rug that looks good, feels good, and offers a lot of functionality.

Looking for a great selection of area rugs? BoldRugs has a wide selection of area rugs including contemporary rugs to traditional rugs.

You Need Country House Plans If Building a Non City Home

Are country house plans for you? Most people love the city life because it offers so much excitement. However, there are times when they crave the tranquil surroundings of the countryside. Some people plan to move to the country after their retirement so they can enjoy the natural beauty and peace when they no longer are attracted by life in the fast lane.

Buying a country home is expensive and often you may not be able to find exactly what you want, so having a home custom built may be a good idea. If so, then you will need country house plans, perhaps even log style house plans, detailed house floor plans and a reputed builder.

Determining your budget is an important factor when you are deciding on what type of country home you would like to build, even before you look at house plans. Once you decide on this aspect, you will be able to look for appropriate plans that will suit both your taste and pocketbook. Perhaps building it in phases would be a good idea. This would help you keep the initial financial requirements low.

There are special software programs available that can help you work out the cost of building. Whatever style house plans you choose, it pays to keep in mind that the cost of building a two story home will be cheaper than following sprawling bungalow house plans, because the floor area, the foundation and the size of the roof will be less.

The one huge advantage of building your home in the countryside is that you can be as bold as you want with your design. In the city there is a basic need of conformity, which often stifles creativity. Not so with your country house plans, as you will have the space and more leeway to do as you please.

Before you start with your countryside estate home plans, take a look at what is available both on and offline. There are plenty of websites and books that offer exceptionally beautiful and cost efficient home plans, which you could use as you find them or have them modified to your liking.

City life is great when you are young and on the go. You love the fast life it offers, you need the employment opportunities available and you enjoy being at the center of the action. At the same time the quiet and natural beauty of the countryside also beckons you. It is a great idea to build a home in the country. Use the country house plans available on and offline or draw your own for this purpose.

Discover more information about country house plans from Mike Selvon portal, and get more insider small house plans tips.

Information on Contemporary Glass Sinks For Bathrooms

Interior home decorating during the modern times has taken a turn into added elegance with home installations and furniture made from versatile glass, like the glass sinks for bathrooms. Different parts of the home are installed with fixtures and other items that are incorporated with contemporary styles and designs. When it comes to the bathroom, fixtures are not limited ceramic or stainless steel. You can find installations that are made from glass, such as bathroom glass sinks. You can also find glass shower enclosures. These modern restyles in home decorating are slowly gaining popularity, even in the simplest of houses.

The Versatility of Glass Materials

Bathrooms, whether in commercial establishments or in homes, are now being turned into elegant spaces. Currently, they are considered more than just a place for washing yourself. They are regarded as an area where you can relax and ease your mind. There are different installations that are making bathrooms gain their modern look. Among these are sinks and shower enclosures wherein you are provided with a wide range of product selections. When it comes to bathroom sinks, the most common materials are ceramic and stainless steel. But since you are already in the contemporary time, you are presented with glass sinks.

Glass is known to be a very versatile material. It has the capability of taking any form and shape during its manufacture. Because of this property, household installations are now available in glass materials. Aside from diverse styles and shapes, you can also choose from different colors, which are acquired during production. The strengthening of the glass is also done during the manufacture of the products.

The Greatest Disadvantage of Glass Sink Installation

While glass is known for their sophistication and versatility, they also come with a number of disadvantages. One of these is the breakage of the glass. This downside usually occurs prior and during the installation of the glass sink. There are two main reasons that may lead to glass breakage. These are thermal shock and the too tight drain assembly. In order for a drain or sink to be properly tightened, it has to be done manually. This is due to the fact that manual operation is gentle and done with care. On the other hand, tightening with the use of a wrench can lead to over-tightening. Plumbers or glass installers also avoid the contact between glass and metal materials. To prevent the contact of the two during installation, gaskets are placed in between the glass and the metal.

Glass sinks are capable of enduring temperature changes that range from normal up to seventy degrees Fahrenheit without causing breakage. But if you pour water at a temperature of more than one hundred twenty degrees Fahrenheit, it will make the glass break. The sudden change in temperature, which is also known as thermal shock, can make the glass material shatter or crack. This is the reason why you have to be careful, when you are using sinks that are made from glass materials. You would not want to get into an accident, when the glass breaks.

When it comes to modern designs and styles of sinks, glass sinks top the list of several homeowners. If you want to install your home with this type of sink, you can go online where you can search for a glass sink manufacturer and installer.

Putting Together Basement Bathroom Plans

If you're thinking about adding a bathroom to your basement, there are a few things you'll need to think about. Without the right plans, you may have trouble getting the room put together and all fixtures correctly installed. Fortunately, all you need to do is think ahead and pay attention to what you can do and what you expect out of your new room. Basement bathroom plans may seem complex, but they don't have to be. Here are a few things to think about when you're deciding how to put your bathroom together.

Will you be adding a full bath or half bath? This will make a big difference in the amount of space you need and how you finish the room. A shower or tub will improve your basement bathroom's functionality, but it'll also take up more space and be more difficult to install. Remember to think about whether or not your basement is comfortable for bathing - many below ground spaces feel cold, and aren't a pleasant place to shower. If you want to include a shower or bath in a chilly basement, you may need to invest in heating.

You'll also have to think about the type of toilet you'll be using in your basement bathroom plans. An above floor plumbing system with a macerator is one method that's relatively easy and requires no digging up of the floor. The down side of this type is that it's more costly. Sewage ejectors are also used to remove waste water from a basement bathroom. These are less expensive, but may require you to excavate space in the floor. Decide which is best, based on your needs, budget, and what you expect out of your bathroom.

You're going to need to think about the size of fixtures and the amount of space needed to comfortably move around in the basement bathroom. Before settling on the fixtures and spaces you're thinking about in your basement bathroom plans, you may want to snap chalk lines in the area you'd like to use and see if it looks like you have enough space. After all, no one wants to create a basement space that's cramped and claustrophobic.

To prevent that cave like feeling that's common in basement rooms, lighting and mirrors are a good choice. You can install ambient lighting and use wall mirrors to make the space in your basement bathroom seem much larger. Just don't use lights that are too bright or badly positioned - glare and too much light aren't any more pleasant than too little. You want your basement bathroom to feel inviting and pleasant to be in. Your plans should reflect that fact. Basement bathroom plans shouldn't just stop at the fixtures and plumbing - include paint, flooring, and other finishing features to help you create the perfect room.

If you spend a little time thinking and researching, your basement bathroom plans will be accurate and you'll have no trouble coming in under budget. You'll get a great new addition to your home that gives you more value and functionality, making the basement a pleasant place to be. Many people want to add to their useful basement space, and a bathroom installation is the perfect way to do it. Get started planning your new basement bathroom today.

Thomas Johnsen is the Author and Leading Expert on Basement Bathroom Plans and the creator of the publication Basement Bathroom Plans. Visit the site now to find the easy-to-understand step-by-step guides on basement bathroom construction available online today.

How to Buy a Refrigerated Compressed Air Dryer

Many customers are often confused as to which kind of dryer for compressed air would work well for them. While some people prefer high-end brands, others may want to opt for more cost-effective solutions. No matter what your prerogative maybe you should consider the following aspects before purchasing any air dryer system.

Reputation of the brand

First and foremost, no matter which kind of dryer mechanism you are looking for, make sure the manufacturer enjoys a good reputation in the market. You may end up purchasing a lower end model at a cheaper rate but the downside to this is that your maintenance and repair costs may go up in the long term. Always select a brand, which is well versed with the compressed gas treatment domain. Most manufacturers of compressed air dryer mechanisms should enjoy a good level of customer service not just before the sale but also post sales as that is when it counts the most.

Feature sets

Once you have zeroed in on a particular brand, you want to explore the feature sets available in their range of air dryer mechanisms. Always opt for the latest heat transfer technology enabled systems as they deliver the best performance in the long-term. Make sure the dew point is as low as is possible and that it keeps all of the pneumatic equipment in top class condition. Look for a model, which offers maximum air drying capability. Only such a feature will help you maximize savings in terms of energy expenditures. Even if the compressed air dryer were to dry around 1000 SCFM you can expect a savings of at least 1000 USD each year, which is no small amount! Compared to a non-cyclic dryer, such models offer good cost-effectiveness. The proper cleansing of the compressed air is also crucial especially if you or any member of the family suffers from dust allergies. Always ask the retailer or the manufacturer if there are any special provisions to remove air-borne ingredients such as pollen etc. as these can trigger an asthma or respiratory attack.

Pricing

Price is almost always a major driver when considering to purchase an air drying system. However, it is also important not to go by merely price alone. You should also weigh the overall cost savings in the long term in comparison with the initial costs while purchasing the system. Most often, the more reputed the manufacturer is, the higher will be the cost of the dryer but at the same time efficiency and drying ability is much more, accounting for a large amount of electricity cost savings.

Not sure which kind of compressed air dryer you need to buy? Select from our vast array of superior, state of the art dryers manufactured by some of the best brands in the market today. In addition, our sales personnel are subject matter experts in the realm of the air dryer segment and can assist you with any query or concern you may have. So come visit us at Van Air Systems today!

How to Paint Your Kitchen Or Bathroom Cabinets

If you have an old but great quality cabinet and your problem is how to make it glow and look neat again, you have to make another trick of repainting it and alas, you will be amazed at the great transformation you made out of it.

The advantage of having your cabinets refinished again is that it gives your home another glow, a pretty sight to make a dull corner while not necessarily having to spend a big amount to purchase another set of new cabinets.So, why not do a repainting job now. Many highly skilled painters can make your kitchen or bathroom cabinets look like brand new ones in just a few hours of job.With proper preparation, they can do a good magic to make the old cabinets appear as if they have been delivered from new packages.With a good quality job done, there will be no visible signs of scratches, marks or dents making it look spotless again.Moreover, cabinet hardware can be changed to have a new modern look to your cabinets. If your problem will be the selection of colors, there are professional color consultants or designers who can help you out.They will assist you to determine the right color combinations for your old cabinets.Whether on wood, metal or laminate cabinets, there is a wide selection of paint colors available now and they come in handy for your perfect needs.

If you plan a do it yourself job, here are the necessary things that you should have:

1. Screwdriver/drill

2. Sandpaper, fine and medium

3. De-glosser/liquid sandpaper

4. Caulk, wood putty, Wood filler

5. Oil base primer

6. Oil base paint

7. Paint roller 1/4"-3/8"

8. Oil, paint brushes

9. Paint thinner

10. Tape

Here are also the easy guides on how to refinish your cabinets for paint:

First, remove all the doors and hardware. Check your hardware whether to replace or keep it existing. All surfaces must be sanded very well with appropriate sandpaper, after which you dust and sweep these areas. All cabinets must be washed with appropriate cleaner and or deglosser. Time to select the paint color you want. Before painting, all cabinets must be applied with an odorless oil base stain blocking primer. Apply the putty, wood fill, sand and caulk where these are needed. Apply a satin or semi gloss oil base paint.Have 2 - 3 finish coats sanding in between each coat of paint. It's now time to replace the doors and hardware. It is just very important to prepare the cabinets properly before you start to paint.The cabinets must be cleaned very well and make slight rough edges on the surface so that the paint will stick well.Oil based primers are better as they have superior adhesive qualities.It is very important also to apply the finish paint as soon as the oil primer has already dried up. You may consider applying non-yellowish clear polyurethane to the painted surfaces once they have dried for added protection.You can also consider adding small wood moldings to your cabinet doors and drawers and decorative crown moldings at the top for a perfectly new dramatic look for your newly refinished cabinets.

Jaworski Coatings, Inc,
41375 Oberlin Elyria Rd.
Eylria, Ohio 44035
Toll Free Office 1-866-87-2114
Fax (440) 328-4539

welovepainting@gmail.com
http://www.WeLovePainting.com
http://www.Cleveland-Ohio-Painting-Contractor.com

Energy Saving Tips

Astonishingly, Americans generally spend $1600 or more a year on their utility bills. Not only is much of this wasted energy, but more carbon dioxide is emitted into the air from one home than two average cars. The following tips will help you save energy costs both at home and in the car.

*Set your thermostat comfortably low in the winter and comfortably high in the summer. Install a programmable thermostat that is compatible with your heating and cooling system.

* Use compact fluorescent light bulbs.

* Air dry dishes instead of using your dishwasher's drying cycle.

* Turn off your computer and monitor when not in use.

* Plug home electronics, such as TVs and DVD players, into power strips; turn the power strips off when the equipment is not in use (TVs and DVDs in standby mode still use several watts of power).

* Lower the thermostat on your hot water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

* Take short showers instead of baths.

* Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes.

* Drive sensibly. Aggressive driving (speeding, rapid acceleration and braking) wastes gasoline.

* Look for the ENERGY STAR label on home appliances and products. ENERGY STAR products meet strict efficiency guidelines set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the United States Department of Energy.

Energy Auditing Tips:

* Check the insulation levels in your attic, exterior and basement walls, ceilings, floors, and crawl spaces.

* Check for holes or cracks around your walls, ceilings, windows, doors, light and plumbing fixtures, switches, and electrical outlets that can leak air into or out of your home.

* Check for open fireplace dampers.

* Make sure your appliances and heating and cooling systems are properly maintained. Check your owner's manual for the recommended maintenance.

* Study your family's lighting needs and use patterns, paying special attention to high-use areas such as the living room, kitchen, and outside lighting. Look for ways to use lighting controls - like occupancy sensors, dimmers, or timers - to reduce lighting energy use, and replace standard light bulbs and fixtures with compact or standard fluorescent lamps.

Insulation Tips

* Consider factors such as your climate, building design, and budget when selecting insulation R-values for your home.

* Use higher density insulation, such as rigid foam boards, in cathedral ceilings and on exterior walls.

* Ventilation plays a large role in providing moisture control and reducing summer cooling bills. Attic vents can be installed along the entire ceiling cavity to help ensure proper airflow.

* Recessed light fixtures can be a major source of heat loss, but you need to be careful how close you place insulation next to a fixture unless it is marked IC.

These tips, and more, are provided to you in a larger PDF file by the US Department of Energy.

David Tanguay is dedicated to providing research, reviews & helpful information to consumers and businesses. For more information related to Green Energy and Alternative Energy please visit http://greenenergyonline.org

See How a Bath Can Benefit From Good Design Choices

If you're planning to have a home built, or remodelling, you will want to arm yourself with a little knowledge about the design-and-build process and how much you want to spend. This will allow you to ask informed questions and make good decisions. The following are a few points to remember.

1. Maintain privacy. In any bathroom, privacy is always an issue. If your bathroom is small, you don't want the room to feel even more closed in. What's the solution? You can install translucent shades. This allow light to enter while shielding the space from neighbours next door enjoying the outdoors.

2. Lighten up. In addition to allowing natural light to enter the bath, artificial light with the right color of light will be needed. In doing so, you need to see yourself in the mirror when you do your hair or apply makeup. The next consideration is your well-being. You see, if you look in the mirror and see someone tan and healthy, you're ready to go for the day. The wrong color of light can make you feel sickly even if you're in perfect health.

3. Select the right colors. Try to select colors in pale hues. Your bathroom need not be all the same color. Mixing colors and tones adds visual interest to a neutral scheme.

4. Enlarge the space - visually. Installing a mirror is one of the oldest and easiest design tricks in order to make your bathroom appear larger. Carefully consider the placement of the mirror. Try mounting your mirror beneath the lighting fixtures and is centered on your vanity.

5. Choose low-maintenance materials. Wallpaper, paint, stone and tile are all good choices for your bathroom walls. Consider larger tiles rather than small ones like mosaics need less grout, also making it easier to keep walls clean. If you select paint or wallpaper for your bath, make sure your choice is mildew resistant - designed for use in high-moisture areas. Consider installing a exhaust fan to dissipate any moisture from your bathroom as well.

6. Find the perfect accessories. Experts recommend keeping the color scheme consistent throughout the bath, even in items like towels and rugs. Don't overlook pieces like towel bars and hooks. The options in bath accessories have never been more diverse.

7. Think efficiency. If you have shared space, consider having two sinks because two basins can come pretty handy during the morning rush. Classically styled fixtures provide a nice complement to any modern vanity counter top.

8. Make every inch count. Attention to detail will certainly pay off. For example, install a narrow shelf on your vanity. This is a perfect spot for your everyday necessities, such as perfume, aftershave, and a razor, as well as display items like a votive candle. Consider installing built-in shelves so no space is wasted.

9. Plan for storage. Rather than two pedestal sinks, a compact vanity can offer plenty of storage for your toiletries and cleaning supplies under the sink. A clean and shiny bathroom will also make the space look bigger.

10. Focus on the floors. For safety reasons, select a floor that will not become slippery when wet. I suggest that you install a material that has a uneven surface that will provide more traction than one that is smooth.

It is also a good idea to draw up your floor plan, with the right length and width dimensions. Indicate where your windows and lights are located and also your bath, toilet and vanity and other storage cabinets. That way, when you take your plan to your nearest home improvement center, the staff there will have a better idea about the cost of your home improvement plans and recommend what materials and supplies are most appropriate to use for your budget and safety in mind.

Robert Sissenah is the owner of the Cybersenior.ca-For Wired Seniors

Robert asks and welcomes his readers to leave their ideas, comments or suggestions on how to improve his website.

Visit his website at http://www.cybersenior.ca/index.html

Interior Painting - Home Tips

If you've ever moved into a new house, one of the first things you want to do is get painted in your style. Ideally you get access to the house before you move in so you can paint it all prior to the furntiure arriving. It's hard to tell which colors go with what and if you are not an interior designer, it could make sense to contact a designer or a painting company and see if you can get a color consultation.

Make sure to establish up front if you can get a free consultation or if you have to pay for their time. If you have a friend than can make a recommendation on a designer, go with that. It's always best to get a first hand account of someone skills then going blindly into the phone book and picking the first person that comes along.

If you decide on your colors, you then need to determine what type of paint is best for your walls, ceiling and trim. Some people like to use oil based paints for their look and sheen, but be careful, oil based paints can take days to cure and will leave the area smelling very strongly for a while. Most people choose water or latex based paints as they don't smell as bad as oil and you can often get a very similar and professional look for your place.

If you decide to do it yourself, make sure you have all the proper equipment, brushes, rollers, ladders and a sprayer would be great if you could get your hands on one. Alternatively you can find a contractor to take care of it, that might be your best bet if you're working a 9-5 job and have very little time left over for home improvement projects.

Choosing the right color is important, so is picking the right Interior Painter. We are a professional Seattle Home Painter and can offer you a free consultation, contact us today!

Wooden Bench Making in 6 Easy Steps

Although you may think it is really more difficult than it really is, bench making can be done in 6 simple steps. After we have gathered the needed materials and tools we can do bench making in no time. We can make ourselves a nice, simple and safe wooden bench; one that will be both functional and beautiful and something you will be sure to get compliments on and a great conversation piece. After all, what's better than saying, Yeah, I made that!"

Bench making is easier with these six steps.

1. First, we start off by measuring the frame of the bench seat to our desired dimensions, cut them, and then tack-nail them together. Bench making includes drawing a curve line on the side pieces lengthways and cutting them using a jigsaw before attaching them together. This forms the seat shape. We may also form it as we see fit.

Then cut and sand the seat slats and mark their face boards. Screw the seat frame tightly together. Glue and nail the slats to the frame, beginning from the back. A inch vertical spacer will help. A good bench making design is providing a slight slat overhang on the front.

2. Second, we come to the screwing portion of bench making. Glue and screw front legs to our seat frame by first pre-drilling and applying countersink holes for screws to fit in. Do the same with the hind legs.

3. Third is sanding. Bench making is also about safety so we round sharp corners and sand the seat face and legs to smoothen all surfaces. This avoids board grains or fibers from sticking out and hurting the user. Sanding also creates better-looking seat surfaces.

4. Fourth, we deal with the back rest in bench making. Get the top rail measurement and add a space 5/8 inch from the rail top to the back part of the hind leg. This should give a 1/8 inch space at the bottom of the rail between the back part of the leg and the rail.

Then place the router tenons or tongues and vertical back slats on one end. There should be a fitting groove at the top rail. The tongues should easily fit into the groove. Glue the slats and nail them.

5. Fifth, bench making with armrests requires putting wood cleats 3 1/2 by 3/4 by 3'4 inches to support the front legs. Make a 3/16 inch hole with a drill at the midpoint of the cleat and have it attached through the bracing at the corner.

The armrest should measure from the back of the hind leg to some inches off the front leg. An armrest notch should receive the leg support of the back rest. Drill a hole and countersink atop the front cleat piercing the armrest then glue and screw.

6. Then, sixth is final sanding. Bench making should end with all surfaces, ends, and corners smoothen before painting. There we have our nice, simple, and sturdy bench.

John Grant is a the author for a how to do it your self site where he is writing articles about how to build a bench.

How to Organize and Declutter Your Bathroom

Trying to organize and declutter your bathroom can be one of the bigger challenges to organizing. One of the smallest rooms in the house, yet so much "stuff" to put in the bathroom. Toiletries, shower supplies and cleaning supplies where can you put it all. Thankfully there are many inexpensive organizing techniques and products that can help you keep your bathroom looking organized and decluttered.

All it takes to keep your bathroom organized and decluttered is a little creativity

Take stock of your bathroom, what do you really need and what don't you need. Come armed with a garbage bag and cleaning supplies

Clean out those drawers. Even your old make-up, if you don't use it throw it away! If it has anything growing, throw it away. You may be able to move those items you store on top into a drawer. Your bathroom will be less cluttered. Using drawer organizers helps keep your bathroom drawers in order and remember to keep those items you frequently on top.

Is your shampoo, conditioner and body wash sitting on the floor of your shower or on the handrail of the door? Has your shower floor turned into a blend of bottles? Are you tired of bending down to get what you need? There are so many different types of inexpensive and stylish shower caddies available today that will not only declutter and organize your shower, make your shower more enjoyable but are quite stylish as well.

You can literally turn your bathroom cabinets into an organized storage area, neat and decluttered. First you need to organize and purge! Throw out that old shampoo that you bought and didn't like. The same goes for anything that you haven't used. I know that many times we buy things, don't like them but hate to throw them away. Now is the time to throw it away and organize your bathroom cabinets.

There are many great new inexpensive products out there on the market that can help you turn and keep your bathroom cabinets organized and neat. Even great products that will keep your blow dryer and supplies organized and decluttered.

Find more tips and tricks to keep your bathroom organized and decluttered at Organize Your Bathroom.

You can also find great ideas on organizing and decluttering your Laundry Room, Kitchen Cabinets and more.

Waterproofing Basement Walls - House Remodeling Ideas

Are you considering waterproofing basement walls in your home? Have you decided that you are sick of having leaks and cracks in your basement walls and you are ready to do something about it? There are only two real options when it comes to waterproofing a basement. Here are your options and what you should do.

First, you can always do it yourself and some people will find this very cost efficient and productive for them. If you like to work with your hands and fix things, and you are good at it, then this might be for you.

You will need to prepare the walls by getting rid of all loose mortar, dirt, and any other contaminants. Also, make sure to use a wire brush and get rid of any old paint. These things can keep your waterproofing from working correctly and can cause leaks in the future.

Then, you will need to fill in all the cracks and scratches with a good concrete solution made for basements. After you have done this you need to find a very good quality waterproofing solution that is made for basement.

Now, do not make the mistake of only using one coat. Make sure you use at least 2 coats and you are much better off if you just go ahead and use three coats to be safe.

If you do not want to do this job yourself you can hire a licensed contractor to do it for you. They will give you an estimate, which better be free, and they will tell you what you need to protect your home. You need to make sure they have plenty of experience with waterproofing basement walls and that they have a good reputation. This will ensure that you get the quality job you want and do not have to worry about your basement anymore.

Get the Waterproofing Basement Walls you desire and stop your basement from flooding here"

Waterproofing Basement Walls

How to Caulk Your Own Bathtub

It is important to have the space between your bathtub and the wall tightly sealed. This seal prevents water from penetrating the wall, which can cause a great amount of damage to your home. If the seal is old or cracked, it is time to re-caulk your bathtub! Learning how to caulk a bathtub is not difficult, you just need to make sure you pay attention to detail. The first step is to purchase the right tools. You will need masking tape, a caulking gun, a tube of caulk, a sharp knife, and a disposable damp cloth. Most of these items are easy to find and inexpensive. The addition of silicon in the caulk however, makes it more expensive because silicon helps prevent mildew from forming.

Once you have your tools ready, remove all the old caulk and mildew from the edge of your tub; be careful that you do not scratch the surface of your bathtub. Use rubbing alcohol to clean everything thoroughly and to remove any excess moisture. Experts recommend that you fill your tub 3/4 full of water before you start caulking because it prevents a break in the seal in the future due to increased weight. Now you are ready to put in the caulk! Carefully place two pieces of masking tape above and below the space that you want to caulk. This step ensures an even caulk bead and less mess. Next, load your caulk gun. Use the knife to cut an opening and test out the flow of caulk over a trashcan. Once you are satisfied, get ready to apply the caulk. Position the tip at the seam and, with one steady motion, move the gun along the seam slowly to make sure that it produces a uniform bead. Do not lift it up for the entire length of the tub and until you reach the corner. Repeat for the other sides.

Once the caulk bead is in place, smooth it out with your fingers and remove the excess. Make sure you wipe your fingers frequently so as not to get any caulk stuck to you. You can also you latex gloves if you feel that is safer. Once you are satisfied, remove the masking tape. The caulk must cure for at least 24 hours before you use the bathtub.

Learning how to caulk a bathtub is easier than you may think. If you are not interested in doing it yourself however, you can always hire a professional!

If you would like more how to caulk a bathtub tips or would like more information about bathtub liners, please visit the Simply Bathtubs website.

Senior Safety - Quick Fixes For Yard, Entryway, and Living Room Hazards

Did you know that falls are the leading cause of injury deaths for people 65 years of age and older, per The National Safety Council? Do you worry that your parents have physical or judgment deficits which impact their safety? Do they open the front door for anyone who rings the doorbell? In this article, I will show you how to identify and reduce safety hazards in the living room, yard and entryways of an elderly persons home.

1) Yard and entryways into home:

• Are walkways level and clear of debris and plant overgrowth?
• Is there enough light to see obstacles? A simple motion sensor light makes it easier to insert the key into the lock.
• You may want to install a railing on both sides if there are stairs up to the door.
• Post a No Soliciting sign outside the front door to minimize trips to the door and to lessen the risk of intruders.
• External doors and windows: Be sure that all windows can lock when fully closed and when partially opened. Have deadbolt locks on all external doors and install wide-angle peep-holes. This is a good opportunity for the "avoid opening the door to strangers", "always lock the doors", and "don't give strangers any personal information on the phone" discussions with your elderly loved ones.

2) Living Room Safety:

• Clutter: This may sound like a no-brainer, but it is often overlooked. Clear away unwanted items, especially from all pathways in the home. Besides reducing tripping hazards, this will help lessen fire risks.
• Floors and floor coverings: Don't use cleaning products and floor waxes that leave the surface slippery. Check for loose carpet and tighten it to avoid tripping. Loose rugs should be attached to the floor with double-sided tape. Be sure to move electrical and phone cords out of all pathways. If a walker or cane is used, it is important to remove all throw rugs.
• Lighting: Check all light bulbs to be sure they are working. Light switches need to be within easy reach. There should not be any areas inside the home that can not be illuminated. Use night lights in all pathways, especially from bedroom. Light timers work well for an elderly person who keeps a fairly regular schedule; program to automatically turn off an hour after bedtime, so that they leave the room while still lighted.
• Furniture: All furniture should be sturdy and in good repair. Elderly people tend to grab on to furniture as they walk by; not recommended, but frequently done, so the sturdier the better. Chairs with arms and higher seats are easier and safer to access.
• Emergency plan. Be sure there is a working smoke detector and fire extinguisher on each level of the home. Attach an easy-to-read list of emergency phone numbers near every phone and review emergency procedures with your elderly family members. Since many seniors spend lots of time in the living room, installing a phone in this room is a great idea. You may want to consider a mobile safety alarm which is worn on the wrist or as a pendant, to automatically summon help with the push of a button.

Most elderly people cherish their independence and will do just about anything to keep it. Because many older adults have mild to moderate sensory deficits, balance issues, memory loss or other cognitive deficits, it is important to evaluate their safety at home. Sometimes a simple device or two in the home is all that is needed to keep them safe and independent. If you still are not sure whether your senior loved ones are safe at home, you may want to obtain a safety evaluation performed by a Physical or Occupational Therapist specializing in geriatric care. They are experts in determining safety and judgment while performing activities of daily living and also can recommend appropriate assistive devices and environmental modifications.

Ronna Sather is a licensed physical therapist with over 30 years of professional experience, assisting and guiding thousands of families dealing with the safety and independence of elderly loved ones at home.

You can visit her website at http://www.seniorsafetyathome.com to find more articles, resources and products which promote senior safety and make life easier in the home environment.

Renovating an Attic

If you want to do remodeling on your house, you're probably aware that the space that you can work with is quite limited. When you have a small house, there are methods out there that you can use to make it seem like it's bigger. In some cases, renovating and remodeling the attic can be the answer to this problem.

If you want some extra space to live in, storage spaces like the attic are the perfect place to start from. You can turn that attic into a playroom, a bedroom, a library, an office or a gym.

Checking the amount of space that you can convert should be the first thing you do at the beginning of your project. If you want to avoid getting bruises and bumps to your head, you should make sure that all walls have a minimum height that will allow you to walk around freely.

When the wall height isn't big enough, you have the option to convert the roof into an upward slope, or to change it and make it a gable roof.

If your house is too old, you might want to consider strengthening the joists of the ceiling. These joists will take the role of supporting the extra weight that you put in the attic, like TV's, beds, couches or anything else you might want to put there.

Renovating and remodeling your attic also means that you should make sure that the ventilation, insulation and lighting are properly designed into the plan. Add extra layers to make sure that the temperature is good and the insulation appropriate. Air ducts might be another good idea if you want the temperature to be controlled. Adding windows and maybe a skylight can take care of the lighting in the room, while also decreasing your electric bill.

If you want to add a bathroom in that space, make sure you connect it to the source that is closest.

Something else that needs addressed is how easy it is to access the attic, and that is done best by installing a staircase. In the case of a staircase that is straight, its size should be 3 by 16 feet. If you choose a staircase that is in spiral, the diameter should be 5 feet. Using a ladder is not allowed if you're putting a bedroom in the attic, but if you're making a loft it's OK.

Talk with an architect or with the building inspector if you're not entirely sure if the renovation or remodeling of the attic is possible. If it can be done, start doing the plans for it and go to a contractor when it comes time to actually do it.

Finding a good contractor means that you should contact a few of them. Try comparing the rates, while also checking out their history and background. The good contractors need to have people that are licensed to do the job. If their client history is good and they have insurance, you should put them on your shortlist.

Because you're renovating or remodeling such a small part of your house, the costs shouldn't be too large. When you're done with the renovation, you will see how right you were to do it and how much better it looks.

Home Improvement Tips - Visit BestHomeImprovementProjects.Com for more articles and tips on garbage disposal maintenance

Glass Block Window Prices - 9 Cost Saving Ideas For Basement & Bathroom Windows

Getting the best price and value in your glass block window purchase may never be as important as it is today. The cheapest price sometimes comes with the worst service and poorest product quality. How do you ensure you get an excellent value with the features and benefits you want in a new block window purchase? Use the 9 ideas presented in this article to stretch your dollars and exceed your expectations with this purchase.

General Glass Block Window Cost Saving Ideas

Here are 3 general cost saving ideas to consider:

1. Buy Prefabricated Window Panels Factory Direct - Since a large percentage of block windows are made to order due to sizing differences with the existing windows being replaced, why invest unnecessary time going to supply yards and retailers who rarely sell custom sized block windows? As long as you have your opening sizes the windows can be prefabricated and shipped directly to you anywhere in the United States. There is generally a substantial price saving to you versus having to find a skilled mason to put the windows together and the quality is higher since the windows are built in the factory, not at the project site. Consumers in states like North & South Carolina, Georgia, Kentucky, and Louisiana where masons are harder to find have found this service beneficial.

2. Compare Installation Guarantees to Years in Business - Did you ever buy from someone who gave you a "lifetime guarantee" only to call them one year later for service and find a disconnected phone number? If you're looking to have your block windows professionally installed by a contractor ask them how many years they have been in business and how many glass block window projects they've completed. If you're not comfortable asking these questions consider joining a consumer rating service like Angie's list to get the straight scoop on your potential contractor.

3. Beware of discounters selling metric sizes or off color blocks - Remember the Latin phrase - caveat emptor (which means let the buyer beware). Although metric sizes can work in openings you are creating new the standard metric sizes usually do not fit existing masonry and rough openings in the United States market. Another trick some "discounters" will use is to sell off color glass blocks. These are blocks where the shading or hue of the blocks may be inconsistent from size to size or from block to block. Evaluate the quality of your potential supplier starting with their web site, to the staff that answers your questions on the phone, to the manufacturers they use - Pittsburgh Corning and Mulia are two of the highest quality manufacturers in the market today. If the pricing seems too good to be true it just might be.

Basement Glass Block Window Cost Saving Ideas

Here are 3 cost saving ideas specifically related to block basement windows:

1. Buy air vents for your block windows with the initial purchase - An extremely popular feature with block basement windows are air vents to allow fresh air in the lower level and to minimize mold concerns. Air vents usually cost anywhere from $30 to $60 per window opening if you do it with the original installation and 3 to 4 times as much if old blocks have to be removed and an air vent added at a later date.

2. Add a dryer vent through the glass block basement window - Dryer vents with standard 4" holes can be incorporated into your block window at a much lower cost than having to create a hole in your concrete block or poured wall foundation. These dryer vents usually have flaps that open when the dryer is working and are closed when it is off.

3. Find a specialty block window installer - In some areas of the country there are companies who specialize in the installation of glass brick windows, walls, and showers. Since they do this work every day the finished quality and value is usually better than a contractor that may dabble in block window installations.

Bathroom Glass Block Window & Upper Floor Window Cost Saving Ideas

Consider these 3 ideas if you're looking to get the best value in a bathroom, garage, or other upper floor block window project:

1. Consider a vinyl framed glass block bathroom window - To make block window installations easier and more cost effective you can now purchase a block window with a vinyl frame (either with nailing fins for new construction or without the nailing fins for replacement window projects). These windows can be made with different sizes (8" x 8" and 6" x 6" are the most popular) and are available in a 2" thick series that reduces the weight of the glass window by about 1/3 in comparison to the 3" thick size. Higher quality Vinyl Wrap brand windows are manufactured with an integral vinyl spacer on the inside of the window and a specialized sealant for block. The windows are installed like a standard replacement or new construction vinyl window which allows an owner a wider variation of choices of contractors that should be qualified to install this window.

2. Use color glass block vs. fiber optic lighting systems - If you're looking to jazz up your block bathroom or upper floor windows consider using block that is colored. Coloring the block is usually less expensive than trying to light the block window with a fiber optic system and more vibrant than rope lighting strung behind the window. A church in Virginia used a variety of colored blocks in their window openings to create a stained glass effect at a substantially lower cost.

3. Use acrylic block windows for more air flow combined with the looks and privacy of block - Although acrylic block windows are generally more expensive than glass, they are an excellent choice if you need a fully operable window with the privacy of block and a tempered glass rating. In the market today there are casement, awning, double hung, and slider windows made of acrylic to choose from.

Now that you're equipped with these 9 price and cost saving block window ideas you should be ready to start your project.

Mike Foti is President of Columbus Glass Block, Cleveland Glass Block, Mid America Glass Block Cincinnati, Dayton, Akron & Vice President of Eastern Glass Block New York & New Jersey - nationwide factory direct suppliers & installers of glass block basement and upper floor Vinyl Wrap bathroom windows, walls, showers and bars. Nationwide 877-668-5888

http://www.columbusglassblock.com/windows.aspx basement & bathroom glass block windows prices & products

http://www.columbusglassblock.com/ - Nationwide and factory direct glass block windows, wall, and shower suppliers and installers of clear & color glass blocks.

How Garage Remodeling Will Fix Your Storage Problems

Garage remodeling is probably the quickest way to add much needed space to your home. If youre considering any sort of home repair this may just be the one that should be first on your list. If youre not using your garage for an area to park your car, then expanding the living space of your home can be quite easily achieved by making this change. As well, youll feel like your home and life are much more organized when you stop storing everything in this area.

If youre thinking of adding a studio, a home office, or a workshop to your home, then of course you need to look no further than the garage. You can even use this area as a home gym, or as an extra living room designated for special events or entertainment purposes. But, dont think that this means that you cannot still store things in this area, or even that you have to sacrifice your parking area. It all really depends on how you go about with your remodeling plans and what your household wants and needs might be.

Since a lot of garages are attached to the house, they can benefit from the exact comfort as the home, which include heating and cooling, phone wiring, as well as plumbing. Youll just need a little imagination, a set budget and a plan.

If you worry that by remodeling your garage, youre losing too much precious storage area, have no fear because you can always build a small storage space behind your garage which can be used to house your tools, sporting equipment, and other items.

Furthermore, when you remodel your garage you should think about adding an addition above your garage. You can add a room for work space and even for living space above the existing garage, which will give you more space as well as increase the your homes value without making major changes to your floor plan.

Do you feel the need to remodel your garage but dont know exactly what you need or want? Then you should consider the following ideas.

How about transforming your garage into a laundry room if youve been performing your laundry duties in the basement. By building a laundry in your garage youll do away with the need to go trounce up and down the stairs a million times a day.

Are you a musician, or just want to be one? A music studio can be a superb choice for your remodeling plans if you or your kids show some talent in this direction. After all, where do you think all of those garage bands got their start? Youll want to consider soundproofing your garage walls so as to avoid your neighbors complaints.

Heres an idea! Change it into a gym. If youve got equipment but you dont have enough space to use it in the house, simply move it into the garage where youll have plenty of space for your daily workouts and. An added benefit is that you wont be bothered by anyone. However you choose to use your new space, hopefully youll enjoy it.

The columnist Leroy Calstard is very excited about issues related to woodworking workbench. His observations on garage workbench can be discovered on http://www.insidewoodworking.com in addition to other websites.

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

Carpet Dye: What You Should Know

If you want your carpets to take on a new look and don't want to spend the money to replace them you should consider carpet dye. It's a low cost alternative that will give your carpet a total face lift.

Both nylon and wool carpets can be dyed. Polyester, polypropylene, and acrylic cannot be dyed. The current color of your carpet will determine what color you can dye your carpet. For example if your carpet is red and yellow dye and you would get an orange carpet. Of if your carpet was blue and you added red you would get a purple carpet. White and light beige carpet can be dyed any color but you can never get a deep black. You can never go lighter when dying carpet, only darker.

There are two common methods used to dye carpet. One is by spraying the dye using a want that produces between 150 and 500 pounds of pressure. If you are performing a total color change this method can have some issues with penetration.

The second method is to apply the dye with a rotary scrubber which has nylon bristles. The machine is moved across the carpet in an overlapping pattern so no areas are missed. You need a great deal of experience to get a professional look but the penetration is excellent and its' the best method of the two.

You must be sure to use professional carpet dye to ensure your carpet dye job works. Just like a bad hair dye you can get a bad carpet dye too. Fiber pro dyes are designed to work on nylon, wool, and carpets that have a stain resistant coating. The colors are bright and they are fade resistant. You need to know what the material of your carpet is and ensure that it is capable of being dyed. Because dying a carpet is a complex procedure it would be in your best interest to have a professional come into your home, have a look, and let you know if your carpet can be dyed, how well it will take, and how much it will cost.

If you are having touch up work done a professional will use a match system to match up the color as close as possible. Automobiles often have their carpeting dyed and the professionals will match the carpet as close as possible to the original.

When the carpet dye is applied it is applied to the surface and the lightly brushed into the nap. The professional will know the exact amount of dye to apply to your carpet to obtain the color choice. To find a good professional make some calls to local carpet dealers. Remember you can use carpet dying to do touch up on spots that have had color discoloration or removal due to bleach.

Carpet dying is truly an art form. If you are going to give it a try yourself and eliminate the cost of the professionals I encourage you to get some scrap carpet, hopefully in a similar color to what you are going to dye, and then practice, and practice some more. If you feel confident you can do it, go for it. But remember the cost of the professional might be a good investment of money because you could wreck your entire carpet.

Carpet dye is an excellent way to give your carpet an affordable face lift and get a few more years out of it. It's also a good choice if you have changed your decor and your carpets no longer fit. So be sure to call a professional to find out more about the carpet dye option.

John Murray makes it easy to go through the carpet buying process and provides tips to keep your carpet lasting long. To learn more and receive your free mini-course visit the carpet rugs website.

First Steps in Planning a Finished Basement

Like many homeowners, you might be thinking about adding living space by finishing your basement.

Before you go too far in planning how you will use all of that extra space, there are some steps you will need to take to be certain that space will be healthy for your family. In fact, many of the first steps in planning a finished basement are good to protect the health of your family whether you finish your basement or not.

The first steps in planning a finished basement are these:

1. Inspect for signs of dampness. Look for standing water anywhere in your basement, especially in corners and below windows. Also look for signs of mold or mildew. Mold and mildew can grow on walls, floor, windows, and on the wood beams and framing for the floor above the basement. Mold and mildew inside your home can cause respiratory problems for your family, even if they don't have allergies or asthma. Basement dampness can also damage hardwood floors above, cause warping and buckling of framing boards, cause odors and even increase your heating and cooling costs.

2. Determine the cause of any dampness and correct the problem. Water or dampness in a basement can be the result of cracks in walls or floor, leaking windows, inadequate drainage below the basement and inadequate removal of water around the foundation. Drainage of rainwater is relatively easy to fix, and making sure downspouts are correctly placed and extend far enough away from the house is important both to have a dry basement and to protect the footers beneath your basement. Be sure to check the areas where floor and walls meet.

3. Correct any foundation problems. When you inspect, keep a sharp eye out for large and uneven cracks in walls or floor. These could indicate a foundation problem. You will need to have this fixed before you finish your basement.

4. Have your basement inspected by a professional before you start construction. Particularly if there are cracks in your basement floor or walls, it is a good idea to have a professional check your basement for potentially harmful leaks. You should also have the basement checked for Radon and other gases that could be collecting under your basement. While many homes today are built with drainage systems under the basements, this might not be the case in your locality. A professional can advise you about what you need to do to protect your family when you plan to use your basement for living space.

5. Check local building codes for specific things you must do before you start remodeling. For example, some localities require a set number of windows and doors for emergency escape. There might also be specifications about stairs and ceiling height. Remember that the most important part of finishing your basement is protecting the health and safety of your family.

6. Make plans to install appropriate vapor barriers and adequate insulation. You will probably want to install a vapor barrier of some sort when insulating exterior walls and before installing floor covering. This prevents moisture from penetrating porous concrete. There are floor mat products and insulation with attached vapor barrier that can be used for this purpose.

7. If you have any appliances in the basement that use water, check pipes and hoses for leaks. It will be worth the time and trouble to check bathroom pipes, washing machine hoses and the like to be certain there are no leaks before you start construction. Also check for leaks around your water heater and where pipes penetrate walls.

By taking these first steps in finishing a basement you can be assured that your new living space will be safe for your family and will protect your investment in your home.

Copyright 2008 by ABCD Publishing

Dan Fritschen, the author of this article, is the founder of the websites http://www.remodelormove.com and http://www.remodelestimates.com He is the author of three books on home remodeling.

10 Steps to a New Bathroom

Is your bathroom is desperate need of a facelift? Considering what an important room in the house this is, it seems odd that a lot of people tend to overlook the bathrooms when they are busy keeping the rest of their homes updated and looking fresh. If this sounds like you, and you are ready to give your bathroom a makeover, we have a simple 10 step guide that you can use to make your project easy. So let's get started!

1.) First things first: what do you want your new bathroom to look like? What you decide on will be partly based on where the bathroom is in the house and who will be using it. For a downstairs half bath that will get a lot of traffic, you don't want to go for anything too fancy - it can still look great, of course, but you don't want anything delicate or hard to keep clean in there if it is going to get a lot of use. If it's for the upstairs master bath, then maybe you'd like to go with a soothing spa-like motif, or the kids' bathroom could be done in bright, fun colors.

2.) Now take those ideas and think about your budget. How much you can afford will affect what you can do, of course, since installing a whirlpool tub is not cheap, but even those of us without a big bank balance can give our bathrooms a great makeover without going broke.

3.) Assess the situation in the room and see how it matches up with your ideas from Step 1, because this will help you with sticking to the budget you set in Step 2. It is not always necessary to rip everything out and start over from scratch to get a new look, which is going to be useful if you are on limited funds. So, if your bathroom cabinetry is in good shape structurally, then all you really need to do to make it look brand new is change the hardware and perhaps apply a new coat of paint or stain - for example, for that more utilitarian downstairs bath, we like satin nickel cabinet knobs, and other satin nickel cabinet hardware. It's durable and bright, and matches well with many different color palettes. When you swap out that hardware and change other cabinet handles and doorknobs in the room to match, you'll get great details that really help pull the whole room together, and it's much less expensive than buying and installing brand new cabinets.

4.) Does the room have any flaws you can't easily change? If you feel like your bathroom is too narrow and want a more spacious feel, it's certainly not easy to just move a few walls around, but you can create the illusion of more space by adding strategically placed mirrors on the walls. A lack of storage space can be corrected with the addition of more towel racks (that match your new hardware!), baskets, decorative bins, and more - be creative!

5.) Think about the lighting - an easy way to make a master bathroom more of a place to relax is to have two different light sources. The bright overhead light you already have is fine to keep (but, by all means, change the fixture so it matches the rest of what you're doing, if you want), but also think about adding a secondary, softer light source situated near the bathtub so you can relax and read a book in a cozier atmosphere - even a small table lamp will do a great job at this.

6.) Figure out the remainder of the supplies you'll need to apply your new design, from the new blue towels to match the penguin theme in the kids' bathroom and the new rugs to any paint, nails, lightbulbs and soap dishes, and make a list to take shopping with you.

7.) WAIT! Before you go shopping, get rid of the stuff that you are not keeping. Throw away what can't be reused and donate or give away the stuff that's still in good shape, but get rid of it - this is a new start, so don't let the old things sit around and clutter the place up!

8.) Okay, NOW go shopping. Take your list, and STICK to it so you stay within your financial means. You won't enjoy a bathroom you overspent on, so shop online for great hardware at great prices, visit local thrift shops for interesting mirrors and artwork to put on the walls, hit up Target for nice towels at a good price, and if you have a store like Marshall's, T.J. Maxx, or Tuesday Morning in your area, then you will find tons of unique home dcor items you can use - many of them designer - at rock bottom prices.

9.) Haul your goodies home and get to work to putting it together. Depending on what you're doing, it may not take long at all to get the project finished, but take your time and be careful when installing your new cabinet handles and if you are changing the lighting, check to make sure all electricity is OFF before you touch. Enlist the help of any passing children or spouses, and you'll be done in no time.

10.) Sit back, relax, and enjoy your updated bathroom - you deserve it!

Tori Spade works for Your Home Supply (YHS), the definitive website for Home and Garden products and information on a variety of home improvement products.

http://www.YourHomeSupply.com

How to Adapt a House and Bathroom For an Elderly or Disabled Person

You may find that as someone gets into their most senior years and/or has a disability that you are now in a position where you need to make some alternations around the home to accommodate them. There are some common alterations that will need to be done around the home in general which we will address first. Then we will look at how to adapt a bathroom for a disabled person or a less-able person; and lastly we will look at who might be able to give you some help and support in the way of planning and financial support.

General & Common Alternations

In order to make the home more suitable and manageable for someone with a disability or someone who is less able, such as an older person, then there are a few general alterations you can make to their home as addressed below:

1. The first thing you need to consider if the person is in a wheelchair is that the corridors and doorways are wide enough to let a wheelchair pass through with ease.
2. All facilities should be at a reachable height. This will include door handles, telephones and most importantly light switches.
3. If the disabled or elderly person can walk a little to reach certain amenities, then a support or grab rail will need to be put in place.
4. If you are living in a two-story building, then there is the stair issue. You may need to consider installing a stair lift. If you can, put the bedroom and bathroom downstairs for easy access, but this is not always feasible.
5. Ramps and general access to and from the home. This could be in the form of ramps and side handles into doorways.

Adapting Bathroom Facilities

1. As mentioned above, if you can, have a bathroom on the ground floor
2. You definitely need grab rails in the bathroom especially beside the toilet and bath-tub / shower area.
3. Basin at a reachable level with taps that are easy to turn on and off.
4. Would a walk-in bath tub or shower unit be the best solution for you? This is the important factor in a bathroom suited to a disabled or less-able person.
5. Think about having a higher than normal toilet
6. A back-rest against the toilet cistern
7. Light switches and all facilities at a reachable level so no distress is necessary

As you can see from the above that adapting a home for a disabled or less-able elderly person is no minor conquest.

It might be better suited if you could find a home that already has all these modifications in place. If not, then this will give you an idea of what might have to be done.

I know what you are thinking now - you are thinking how much will all of this cost?

Yes, it will cost a few thousand $/ but don't despair as there is help at hand.

Help And Assistance

You can get advice and financial help from:

• Occupational Therapist
• Community Care
• Local GP
• Public Health
• Local Government for Planning Permission and Grants
• Care For The Elderly
• Mobility Aids and Grants

I sincerely hope you found the above of some use to you. I had a close Aunt who became wheelchair bound through to illness, and these are most the of the alternations that my family had to accommodate for her illness.

If you want further advice on adapting bathrooms and specialty bath-tubs, then visit Walk-In Bath Tubs and Showers at http://www.guideitcom.com/bathtubs

How to Change a Shower Faucet in 5 Easy Steps

Cannot sleep with the constant drip in the bathroom? Tired of hearing the drip-drip noise from the shower faucet every night? Then here is how to change a shower faucet in just 5 steps ...

It is not a very titanic task to change a shower faucet. But neither is it as simple as unscrewing the old and putting in new. It does require some effort and thinking on your part. Plus you also require some correct tools like wrenches, screwdriver, handle hammer, torch and goggles.

There are basically two basic types of shower faucets. One is the washer type and the other washer-less shower faucet. If the washer is worn out or hardened then that may be the reason for shower leaking. Or it may also be the rubber gasket or the ring which needs to be replaced. Sometimes washer seats may also be the cause of the problem.

• The first thing to do if a shower faucet is leaking is to close the main supply of water. Then allow the water in the faucet to drain completely.
• Next take off the faucet handle. For this you may have to turn the screw clockwise using screwdriver or knife. Next remove the handle. If it is stuck to the stem then you probably have to use a handle hammer.
• Next separate the stem and check the condition of the stem. If the threads are worn out then take them to a retailer and get a new stem. If the brass screws are damaged then they too require replacement. If the stems are dirty, clean them.
• Now examine the washer. If the washer has white vinegar or lime deposits then it requires cleaning and replacement. Take them to a dealer who will give you an exact match in size as well as style. Now check the washer seat. If they are worn out then they too have to be replaced. If they have square or hexagonal holes they can be changed. But if the seat has a round hole then you need to use a seat dressing tool.
• Now insert the new parts. You can use Vaseline to ensure that it is sealed correctly. Spread a bit of petroleum jelly on the threads of the stem for lubrication. Now put all parts in the reverse order. Switch on the water supply and take a shower test to see if you have replaced everything correctly.

Sometimes the problem may be with the stem too. In such a case you need to install a new packing. If it is noisy shower faucet problem then the problem may be due to loose seat washers. Then tighten the washer following the same steps as outlined above. Poor design and construction may also be the reason for noisiness. In such a case you will have to replace it.

Thus with a little help you can fix the faucet yourself within an hour and sleep peacefully without bothering about the drip.

Learn exactly how to generate 100's or even 1000's of positively *BRILLIANT* Bathroom Remodeling Ideas ... F-A-S-T ! And here are 25 Dirt Cheap Home Improvement Ideas that could increase the value of your home by several $1000's ...

Buying Your New Bathroom

Buying your new bathroom is probably one of the largest and most demanding expenses you will face. The bathroom market is very diverse and you will need to make decisions about where to buy, how much to spend, and what bathroom style to choose. I will clarify some of your choices.

Your first decision is to decide upon a bathroom budget and how to raise the money. A new bathroom will increase the value of your home, so it is akin to an investment.

Your home has a maximum potential value according to its location. To prove that to yourself, just look at a flat in London, and then look at the same style and size flat in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. The London flat will cost much more. So spend according to the potential marketability of your home. Estate Agents often say a 5-10% expenditure on interior upgrades is a reasonable cost. So a 100K flat could warrant a 5-10K expenditure on upgrades. Much of that could be for your new bathroom.

After fixing your budget, you need a bathroom design done. There are key decisions to about product types to make. You may want a steam unit, a whirlpool, a sauna, rainbars, bodyjets, a walk-in enclosure, a shallow tray, or many other bathroom fittings.

A bathroom showroom is a good place to start and ask the sales manager to do a design. He may need to visit your home. Designs are done using CAD (computer aided design) software or graph paper. After his design, you will have a good idea of what can be done. The sales manager will offer normally an installation service and provide a total price for supply and installation.

Giving your purchase to the showroom is the safest and easiest route. He has premises and is easily accessible and you will have just one contact. However, using the services and products from a showroom is probably the most expensive route to take. It is safe, but that safety has a cost.

Showrooms are given special pricing on certain lines, and they will recommend those lines. Also, the showroom has a limited supply line; maybe only 10% of supply lines. So you choice is limited. Labour via a showroom is marked up, so the installation will be expensive.

If you decide against using a showrooms services, you can try shopping at a plumbers merchants.

Plumbers Merchants have limited customer service and they rarely do bathroom designs. They are in business to serve plumbers, but they also do retail. Plumbers merchants are cheap, and the large nationally based ones can get almost any product.

You will need to have all your facts available to yourself. Buying that route will save you money. They will not install for you, so you will need to find your own plumber.

Plumbers advertise in their local papers and that shows they are looking for work. That will normally mean a far better price for you. Advertisements in the Yellow Pages for plumbers, especially with 0800 numbers, rarely advertise low cost services. Use a local paper if possible. Always use the services of a Corgi registered plumber whenever possible.

The Internet is another source and one that is growing very rapidly for bathroom supply. Bathstore.com embraced the web and it sells via the Web and its stores. There are countless showrooms also on the Web.

Buying via the Web will widen your choice dramatically and also open up deals to you for great prices. You will need to know the products well, and be careful about deliveries. Under the law, when you sign for something as received and in good condition, you have no legal recourse if the goods are damaged.

Phone the web retailer to put a human voice to the website. That will increase your confidence in the companys services.

Happy Shopping.

This article is written by Trevor Oakley. He is the managing director of Merrows Bathrooms. Merrows has traded for four years selling hundreds of thousands of pounds of quality goods. He also manages the Sayworth website. That site is about consumer advice and it has buying tips.

Interior Redesign

Many of you may be considering to makeover your living room, kid's room or renovate whole home before the coming year. However if the cost or time factor is the spoke in the wheel for your grand plans, then Interior Redesign is the answer for you. It is an affordable alternative to "start from scratch" Interior Design. It is a specialized decorating service that not only gives the space an entirely new look but also saves time and money!

Although this concept is in nascent stages as yet, however looking at its advantages it sure will grow in popularity. Interior Redesign is a credible and affordable service for just about everyone. Some of the traditional designers have now been adding interior redesign to their list of services.

So if you are planning to get the interiors done for a particular room or entire home on a budget, hire an interior redesign professional who with their fresh perspective can visualize the potential of your space objectively & will use the existing furniture, lighting, art & accessories to transform the room into a more functional and stylish space. This new twist on interior decorating is called Interior Redesign.

Reasons to Redesign:
Your house has carefully chosen loved pieces but still lacks a pulled together look.
Your home looks exactly the same for the past three years or more & feels stale.
The house is rented, you are desperate for new look but knocking down of walls or major expenditure is not viable.
Clutter of all the pieces & memorabilia you cherish seems to sabotage all your creative efforts.
You would like to renovate the home but are completely overwhelmed by the prospect of complete interiors.
You would like to incorporate latest modern accessories & gadgets with your delicate antique furniture but don't know how to do it in a cohesive manner.

Process of Redesign
The interior redesign professionals will first discuss your lifestyle and the function of the proposed room during which you may go over any special needs of the family. The designer will also give you suggestions about presently required new items & optional future purchases to complement the existing pieces.

Some of the basic steps involved are
-Space planning & making efficient use of your existing space.
-Selecting a focal point of the room. Creation of overall color scheme.
-The placement of furniture that will complement the focal point
-Using lighting & light fixtures correctly.
-Choosing the right window treatments & incorporating the existing style & material.
-Addition of rugs, side tables, shopped from your own home. For example swapping side tables in your bedroom with the end tables, if it matches the style in your room redesign.
-Adding artwork and accessories by looking for pieces in your home like photographs and personal collections.
-Finally re-vitalizing the room by re-placing (not replacing) existing furniture, artwork accessories & complementing newly shopped items.

As is rightly said great interiors is not about having beautiful things but about knowing how to play with those beautiful things. So as a prelude to this New Year pamper your home, get reintroduced to your long lost possessions and get ready for dramatic results, sans the pain of time & money consuming structural alterations & shopping trips.
'Start from scratch' interiors is not de rigueur to achieve a new 'feel & look' for your home. Redesigning is all about borrowing from the past and moving into the future!

Some Simple Steps To Paint Your Bathtub

Your bathtub is a mess, chipping and stains all over. So, you're thinking of getting a bathtub paint job done, that's a great idea. You can do it yourself or can employ a specialist to assist you. If you're doing it yourself, here's a few steps that a bathtub paint job would consist of.

You would first have to paint the tub with a primer. This primer goes over the porcelain. This is needed so that the surface is porous and the paint will remain. While painting your bathtub, you rather use a paintbrush as against a roller. A roller may be easier for some to handle, but using a roller in the bathtub is not really convenient and it can be quite a pain at some times. It's advisable that you apply two coats of the base color. For this purpose you should use latex paint. Why use two coats? Well, it will give your bathtub a nice vibrant lool, and make it resilient.

You also have to be mindful of what type of paint your using for your bathtub. It's advisable to use EP Acrylic. This is an acrylic polymer coated paint. The thing that makes this pain ideal for your bathtub is that its high quality and is durable or long lasting. In addition, you can get this paint in an extensive range of colors, thus making it extremely easy for you. You can buy the paint that matches the color of your bathroom walls, or something that complements that color. It's best to use a glossy finish, for your bathtub paint.

It's also good to apply about two base coats of primer and then about two or three coats of the acrylic paint, which is the topcoat. Between each coat, make sure that you leave some time, at least about 30 - 60 minutes. Actually the best way to tell is by seeing if the coat that you applied is tried. Also after you've completed your bathtub paint job, make sure that you wait a while before you take a bath. At least wait for around 24 hours minimum. Sometimes you may have to wait even longer.

Russell Clark owns and operates the popular website BathtubSpecialist.info

Bathroom Air Freshener - The Benefits and Advantages

Your bathroom is the stuff that purple-hued dreams are made of, so the air of despair surrounding you is not exactly beyond reproach. May be the sense of passive resignation stems from the repugnant odors that loom large in your personal space.

Take a deep breath, and allow a bathroom air freshener to deal with the most recurring problem in your bathroom. With these experts at work, not only your bathroom, but even you will be suffused with an air of fulsome buoyancy.

Banish That Nasty Smell Forever

It's just not bathrooms that seem to be gripped by the vile influences of unpleasant odors; closets, bedrooms, storerooms and pet dens give some tough competition. The need of the hour is an advanced product that would get rid of strong odors by infusing a whiff of clean, sweet-smelling air.

The deluge of electric air fresheners are your only beacon of hope against this rather grating issue. The slew of sparkling features, buttressed by the superior electronic ionizer breeze technology, ensures that these hi-end products do not disappear off your radar. Take a look for yourself:

• The circulation of fresh, pleasant-smelling air takes place without any kind of noise or movable fixtures.
• Contaminants in the air are trapped by efficient internal ions.
• They are armed with a virtually indestructible LED night light, that does not in any way disturb your beauty sleep.
• The air remains fresh without any reduction in the desirable levels of oxygen. There are no perfumes or chemicals or their pernicious effects to worry about either
• Since these hi-quality, lightweight and extremely compact air fresheners are equipped with a cordless electric plug, they are remarkably easy to store and use.
• Cleaning them is a breeze, thanks to the presence of removable plates. Just slide them out and wipe them squeaky clean.
• The use of only 3 watts of energy does not burn a big, black hole in your pocket.

I don't blame you if you are already holding your breath in anticipation.

Learn exactly how to generate 100's or even 1000's of positively *BRILLIANT* Bathroom Remodeling Ideas ... FAST ! And here are 25 Dirt Cheap Home Improvement Ideas that could increase the value of your home by several $1000's...

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Majestic Colonial Punta Cana Resort Review

The Majestic Colonial resort is located in the beautiful Punta Cana, in the Dominican Republic. It is one of the nicest resorts there. Actually, it is a five star all-inclusive resort. This means that you don't have to worry about spending extra money to buy breakfast, lunch, or dinner because the food at the resort is included. The resort is located close to the Punta Cana International Airport. Many couples choose this resort for their honeymoon. It is very elegant, in fact, you can feel literally like a millionaire there. Right from the start, you can notice that employees are very kind. Front desk employees, bartenders, maids, all staff members are very polite, friendly, and helpful. At your arrival, you will receive welcome drinks and many smiles, too. Tipping is not required, but just a couple of dollars daily left for the maid and for your favorite bartender go a long way to get a great service.

This resort has several pools. It is very relaxing and quiet on some of them. On the others there are things you can do, like exercise, aerobics, and many other water activities.
The rooms are big enough, clean, and have beautiful views. The air conditioner works really good. The maid service is good and the mini bars are never empty; food is great. There are about seven restaurants, with a variety of food to choose from, like the Japanese restaurant, for example. For many restaurants you must make reservations. There are also many bars there.

Beaches are really clean with beautiful white sand . You can go for a walk at the beach or just sit there and appreciate the great view. There are lounge chairs, umbrellas, and towels available at the beach and at the swimming pool. You can also visit the spa and relax for a while. The massages area is really beautiful; it has a Jacuzzi and a sauna area, too. If you love to play golf, the Majestic Colonial Punta Cana resort is a great place to practice this fascinating sport. There is also a basketball and a tennis court.

For those who plan to travel with children, there is entertainment for them, too. Video games and swimming pools are available for kids, which are constantly under supervision. This means that you can relax while your children have fun at the children's club.

At night you can go to the casino, dance at the night club, or just stay at the hotel and watch the night show. At the disco, you can dance at music like bachata, salsa, and meringue. There is also a snack bar next to the casino that is opened from 11:00 pm until 4: 00 am. Day or night, there are many entertainment activities to choose from.

This resort is recommended to everyone : young singles, friends, families with children, families with teenagers, "young at heart" travelers, honeymooners, those who want a romantic getaway, etc. If you visit the Majestic Colonial Punta Cana resort you will want to go back again.

The author is a contributor to puntacana-travelguide.com

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Wave And Flood Home Damage

Vista Del Valle - A Great Hotel in Costa Rica

Looking up a 300 foot waterfall wondering how I was going to get the whole thing into my shot without soaking my new high-definition video camera on day one of 35 day shoot had me feeling more like I was in the heart of the rainforest, not 20 minutes west of the international airport.

But that's exactly where I was. Vista del Valle is the perfect place to begin and end any Costa Rica vacation. Its location is perfect for accessing the rest of the country, and for being fairly close to San Jose, you can still experience the beauty that Costa Rica offers.

Vista del Valle lies at approximately 2,500 ft./ 762 meters. The restaurant is perched on a cliff and overlooks the Rio Grande Private Nature Reserve. At night, looking in the same direction, are the lights of San Jose. Which in my opinion, is the best way to see San Jose... at night and from a distance.

The food is Vista is like the food at all the lodges I'll be writing about, wonderful. The nice thing, when it comes to the food at ecolodges or small resorts, is the pride they take in food preparation. Because they're not cooking for big crowds, each dish is prepared with love and the freshest ingredients available at the time. Enjoying your meal while overlooking the Rio Grande will your first of many memories.

The pool has a shallow end for kids and there are lots of personal floatation devices to enjoy. There is also a Jacuzzi. My first thought when I saw it was 'wow, a hot tub in Costa Rica, isn't it a little hot in Costa Rica for a hot tub.' However, with the elevation, nights can get a little chilly making the hot tub option a good one. It's also a great way to enjoy the rain.

The suites, cottages and rooms are all very comfortable offering all the amenities one requires.

The gardens are a great way to introduce yourself to the botanical beauty of Costa Rica. I've spent many hours walking their gardens filming plants, butterflies and birds.

Vista del Valle is owned by Michael and Joanna Bresnan. They have been in Costa Rica for over 40 years. Their love and respect for Costa Rica is evident in the way they run their business and the respect they have garnered from their neighbors.

I became instant friends with Michael and Joanna and consider them to be some of the truest people I have ever met.

Current projects include making the hotel a model of sustainability. They have an impressive, organic garden and hope to build a 'center for sustainability' where people can learn about and practice the concepts of sustainability.

Please visit them at http://vistadelvalle.com.

For more information on this hotel as well more great places to stay in Costa Rica, please visit http://www.ecotourismtravelguides.com or contact me personally at redwoodmitch@yahoo.com

Mitch Popa is an independent video producer working on promoting Costa Rica's Ecotourism Industry.

Plant Growing Under Roof
Rusted Cabinet Door Hinge

How to Boost Your Insurance Payout on Property Damage Claims

Filing property damage claims is a complex process that often results in the property owner being shortchanged. First and foremost, insurance companies are for-profit businesses. They aren't in the business for fun; they're in the business to make money. Insurance companies have two ways to make money: collecting premiums and minimizing payouts.

It doesn't matter if you have a homeowners insurance claim or a commercial property insurance claim, the process is the same. You pay premiums to the insurance company for coverage. If you suffer a covered loss, you file a claim and the insurance company pays you a settlement, less any applicable deductible. However, this settlement may not be enough to fully reimburse you for your losses.

In order to boost your insurance payout, you must not sit back and let the insurance adjuster tell you what they will pay. Instead, you need to take an active role or hire someone to act on your behalf. Remember that the insurance adjuster, no matter how nice he is, serves the insurance company whose goal is to make a profit by minimizing losses - including YOUR losses.

On the other hand, a public insurance adjuster is one that you can hire to represent you. These adjusters document everything and negotiate higher payouts directly with your insurance company. They are licensed and are often former insurance industry employees who know how the insurance claim game is played. They can counter any tactics the insurance company throws your way and aggressively pursue maximum settlement offers. These professionals earn a percentage of the payout, so it's in their best interest to maximize it.

If you want to boost your property damage payout on your own, find a reputable contractor who will be doing the repairs and ask the contractor to be present during the insurance adjuster's visit. The contractor will have the expertise to point out all structural and cosmetic damage - damage that the insurance adjuster may have overlooked on his own. In addition, the contractor will ensure that estimates reflect actual rebuilding and material costs. The insurance adjuster relies on books and software for making estimates while a real contractor has working knowledge of real world costs.

One of the most important tasks when boosting an insurance payout takes a bit of work on your part. You must thoroughly document EVERYTHING. Invest in a digital camera with a huge storage card and take hundreds of pictures. For example, if you have water damage, take pictures showing the standing water and water level as well as pictures of every single damaged item, especially those that you must throw out due to safety concerns.

Next, use a notebook or your computer to write down a complete inventory of damaged items along with their original cost and estimated replacement cost. Include everything, even small items. You'd be surprised at how your small losses soon add up to significant amounts. For example, if the contents of your refrigerator must be replaced due to the power being out for several days during a flood, make a thorough inventory of all items, even condiments. At $2 to $4 a bottle for salad dressing, mayonnaise, ketchup, and olives, it doesn't take long before you have a huge grocery bill just to restock the basics.

Don't forget to keep receipts for any emergency repairs, temporary lodging, and other related expenses and include them on your claim. When filing the claim, be as thorough as possible and make sure that the claim form is complete and legible. Insurance companies love to delay payouts due to "missing or incomplete" information.

By taking a proactive approach to filing a property damage claim, you will definitely boost your payout.

Dryout Inc.
1415 Colonial Blvd.
Fort Myers, Fl. 33907
Mr. Mark Decherd
http://www.dryout.net
239-437-7100
Water Damage

Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water and fire damage repair services by a network of trained specialists, technicians and restoration professionals across the USA.

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