How to Replace a Circuit Breaker

It is always a good idea to have each circuit breaker clearly labeled. This prevents confusion and frustration in the event that one needs to be reset or replaced. You can begin labeling the circuits by turning them off and on to see which appliance it is connected to. Circuit breakers consist of the main power supply to your home as well as individual circuits for appliances within your home.

Learning how to replace a circuit breaker or install a new circuit breaker is a little more complicated than merely resetting a tripped breaker. Firstly, you should purchase a new circuit breaker from a home improvement or hardware store. Before installing a circuit breaker you should turn the main power breaker off to shut down power to the entire house.

You can remove the gray circuit breaker panel by unscrewing the faceplate. You will see two wires on the side of the breaker; be careful to remember what position each wire is in as you remove the panel. You can use a wire nut to hold and bend back the wire that you will use later on. Repeat this process for both the white and colored wires. After removing the old breaker box simply reinstall the new circuit breaker box and replace the wires in the same manner in which they were previously installed.

Installing a circuit breaker box is a seemingly simple task. Even if you are not technically inclined, you should still be able to perform this task. If, however, you are uncomfortable in dealing with electrical issues, it might be wise to consult with an electrician. All electricians know how to replace a circuit breaker and it is not very time consuming for them, and so it should not be expensive for you, and might save you some unnecessary frustration.

Circuit Breakers Info provides detailed information about circuit breaker panels, circuit breaker manufacturers, plus advice on how to replace and install circuit breakers and where to buy used and surplus circuit breakers. Circuit Breakers Info is the sister site of Electricians Web.

Building Inspections - Permits and Problems

Things to Know

1. The General Contractor or the person that the Building Permit was issued to must make all inspection requests.
2. Building Permit Cards must be posted and building plans must be available at the jobsite or the inspection will not be performed and a penalty can be charged.
3. Permit Fees are based on the valuation of project defined as labor, materials, plus profit
4. If the project is large enough a plan review will have to be completed by the building inspector

Who are They

The BDI inspects approves and issues all permits required by code for new construction and for repairs and additions to all public and private buildings. They assure safe building standards for the general safety and welfare of us all. When Do I Need a Building Permit Building permits are required when any structural change or major alteration is made or for new construction. Normal maintenance doesnt need a building permit.

Here are some common examples, although this list is not complete:
1. New structures
2. Enlargement of existing rooms
3. Porches, decks, and retaining walls
4. Anything involving structural beams, joist replacement or bearing support
5. Foundations and footing repair, underpinning or shoring up of a structure
6. The conversion of basement or attic space to living quarters
7. All new fences except the replacement of existing fences
8. An entire new roof, when roof work is not replacement of like material

When Don't I need a Building Permit

Here are some common examples, although this list is not complete:
1. Ordinary repairs to residential buildings and structures, there could be height restriction here.
2. Plaster patching, exterior and interior painting, floor sanding and refinishing, floor tile, carpeting, replacement of flooring
3. Repair or replacement of gutters and downspouts
4. Replacement or repair of exterior doors and non-fire rated interior doors whenever no modification is made to the opening
5. Wall paneling applied directly to wall surfaces; acoustical ceiling tile applied directly to ceiling surfaces;
6. Installation of battery-operated smoke detectors
7. Replacement of existing fencing, same height, material and location in the rear or side yards
8. Non-dish radio or television antennae

The BDI will focus on all common areas unless there is a specific complaint. In that case they can go anywheres in a building. They do not need an owners permission to enter a unit, but they do need the tenants permission to enter an apartment. They will look at all common areas to sleuth out dangerous or hazardous code violations or egress issues. They are essentially interested in safety issues and will look especially for fire extinguishers, doors, lighting, stairs, doors and smoke detectors. If there are any violations of code they will issue a "notice of violation" or NOV.

What They Do: They will inspect a property for three reasons:

1. Law requires general inspections to uncover and correct safety issues and code requirements. These inspections are mandated periodically.
2. Someone has complained
3. To review new construction work for safety and code violations.

The Dreaded "Task Force Inspection"

If a building is a nuisance and gets repeated complaints then the city can call in many or all the agencies and create a task force to inspect the building. The agencies involved can include fire, health, police, and the D.A. The task force is only formed for the worst offenders, generally drug dens or health hazards.

Construction Inspections

The inspector is looking to see that the work is up to code and does not exceed the scope of the permit. Very often, construction will take place and other issues come up. If they exceed the parameters of the work approved they can deny approval of the work. Now you have to come into compliance and that can mean a bureaucratic snafu or worse. A citation or NOV (Notice of Violation) is issued and you will need to apply for another permit to fix the problem to come up to code. When the work is completed according to the demands of the BDI, you will need another inspection to get cleared. If you still have problems with getting the work approved you have a few alternatives

Fighting the BDI

1. Know the code: You will need to prove the condition cited is legal
2. Get all the permit plans the DBI has and try to make a case that the condition is historical
3. If its an older building it may be grandfathered
4. Talk to the senior inspector and make an informed case
5. Talk to a real estate attorney or engineer

The Hearing

This is your last effort to right a wrong. You can have your attorney or property manager or possibly a structural engineer make your case. This is your last ditch effort to allow a condition to remain in place. Obviously, you dont get to this unless there is a lot of money at stake.

Howard Bell
yourpropertypath.com

http://www.yourpropertypath.com
We believe that knowledge should be free and freely shared.

Building Deck Steps Now That Outdoor Entertainment Season Has Arrived

Planning a summer barbeque...reading a great book out on your new or remodeled deck...creating a new season tan have gotten easier and classier with the New Age materials available for building deck stairs that deliver a design statement plus create value for your home and property.

Cool Contemporary Trends In Materials For Building Deck Stairs. When is a step not merely a step? Answer? When it's designed into a larger deck and entertainment area for every day use along with entertaining friends. No longer a "tag-along after thought" for a deck, deck stairs and deck stair railing systems create robust design statements...materials include traditional wooden deck steps such as pressure treated lumbers or more expensive but durable Western cedar...eco-friendly long lasting composite decking in subtle earth tones...and even high density vinyl.

How To Build Deck Stairs. All good, and all great deck step designs...especially when the "finished look" will be architect inspired with a textured composite and color-balanced material...rely exclusively on the quality of the support structure. Here, you and your builder are thinking about how to build deck steps supported by concrete support pads, structural timbers such as 2 in. X 12 in. pressure treated "stringers", anchor bolts, hangar and joist support hardware brackets, 16 in. center tread support studs, and of course laser-sighted layouts to determine pitch and angles so that each stair is level and "true".

Deck Stair Plans. Do-it-yourselfers can obtain remarkable and detailed deck stair plans online...from "big box" hardware and building supply retailers or local builders and architects. To design deck stairs, you'll need some form of PC-based cad program, in order to model different design iterations...adjusting width, height or rise or considering graduated width or even spiral deck staircase layouts. Look for programs, or service providers who can input your raw dimensional data...work up a complete bill of materials, from lumber lengths to deck screws...and then create a number of design "looks" for you to consider. Take your time. Decide slowly.

Deck Spiral Staircase. When building deck stairs and you want to make a huge visual impact, here's where the unusual wrap-around effect of spiral deck stairs becomes a design option. The positive argument says you'll create the same deck access, long life and load carrying capability plus you're adding seriously cool looks which may translate into improved home values. The less sanguine argument states that you'll find someone who has a physical difficulty or even a certain mental hang-up about approaching a deck spiral staircase, and of course seriously large objects (think huge grills, furniture, pianos, a team of Sumo wrestlers) generate difficult access-use problems.

Deck Stair Railing Systems - A World of Choice. No longer rough milled logs strung up outside Lincoln's Illinois cabin, modern decks get incredible finishing treatment options including metal deck railings (think steel, alloys)...cable deck railings (think thin-profile high strength steel safety cables held taut between upright posts)...or ultra-modernist see-through safety glass deck railings. Safety tip: check with your town's building code to learn about deck stair railing "code" requirements...spacing and layout which reduces risk of accident to you or guests or delivery guys.

Find Out More About Deck Stair Designs, Materials And Whats Necessary For Building And Installing Deck Stairs.

Please go to the following links for the latest in deck stairs and deck stair design strategies for your outdoor living space.

Deck Stairs: http://www.wise4living.com/hgdeck/stairs-steps.htm

Decks in general: http://www.wise4living.com/hgdeck/

Author Robin Derry is publisher for http://www.wise4living.com/ a specialty knowledge site that gives insights and solutions on building deck stairs, home and gardening projects such as decks and deer fencing, plasma and LCD TV stand design trends, wall mount and TV ceiling mount systems, HDTV and home entertainment systems, specialty academic camps, auto tire and wheels technology trends, medical spas, technology trends, unique gift designs, technology gifts, tips for families committed to youth summer camps, body health, household, sport, travel, footwear, education, spendthrift trusts and family law legal needs, and much more.

Top Returns For Your Home Remodeling Investment

Home improvement projects do not always payoff as an investment, but then we seldom undertake a project for purely monetary reasons. More often than not we want to remodel a kitchen or bathroom, convert a garage or do some other project simply to make living a little "better". The increased value of our home is of secondary consideration. Nevertheless, it is a consideration and is a very effective way of increasing the value of a home.

The goal of most home improvement projects is generally to add more space or light to an existing room or to improve and modernize the house or apartment utilities such as kitchen, bathroom, garage, or heating. Home improvement projects such as these not only preserve or even enhance the value of a property but often add a higher degree of safety.

Return On Investment - A Brief Guide

The following is presented as a guide only to assist you in deciding which project to undertake first if money is a consideration and multiple projects are being planned.

• Kitchen remodel (minor) in Connecticut = 125%
• Kitchen remodel (major) in Kentucky = 92%
• Bathroom remodel in Oregon = 90%
• Bathroom remodel in Missouri = 96%
• Master bedroom in Florida is 86%
• Basement remodel in California = 98%
• Exterior paint in Pennsylvania = 90%

Kitchens - A Place To Start

Kitchen remodeling may include such items as new or re-faced cabinets, counter tops, flooring and appliances. Redesigning your kitchen to enhance work flow in meal preparation will make cooking a much more pleasant experience and add to the resale appeal of your home. Obviously, kitchen remodeling can be a major renovation project, however there are many do it yourself home improvements that can be done in the kitchen. Vinyl laminate flooring is ideal for a small budget kitchen home improvement job.

Bathroom Are Going Upscale

If you are trying to increase the value of your home by improving just one room in the house, you might well want to consider5B4 the bathroom. This is definitely a place to take a hint from the current crop of new homes being built. Luxurious bathrooms are in vogue. Today, a major bathroom upgrade could and probably should be one of the most luxurious renovations you do in the entire home. Particular attention needs to be paid to the sink and counter top. Your eyesight naturally goes there when entering a bathroom. The large home improvement store such as Lowes' and Home Depot can supply you with just about anything that you can dream of today.

Basements - A Caution

Before undertaking a basement remodel be sure you have moisture under control. Damp or literally wet basements are a problem in many areas. This can usually be easily corrected by a professional but be sure to get several bids before doing this. Basement moisture control is one area noted for scams and/or shoddy, unnecessary work.

General

Home improvement is generally done with the intention of adding some space to an existing room or to add some light to the room. Keep in mind that a building permit is usually required when performing structural work or when a home's basic living area is changed.

Planning for home improvement is like planning for a war; no matter what your estimation as to cost and time is, it will probably take longer and cost more than you estimated. Unlike war, however, home improvement is usually worth it. Home imp5B0rovement is a really a good investment, producing both a better place in which to live and an increase in the long term value of your house.

Summary

Home improvement includes the repairing, remodeling, altering, converting, modernizing or adding to residential property. It is not an exact science. Any home improvement project needs to be carefully planned with professionals consulted when needed. If adding value is your prime consideration, plan first on upgrading the kitchen and bathroom which offer the best return for you home improvement dollar.

Gerry Marsh is a successful author and publishes several websites in the areas of real estate and insurance. For more information on home improvement see his Home Improvement and Kitchen Remodeling sites.

Remodeling a Bathroom and Refinishing and Restoring Baseboard Heating Element Covers

If you are considering remodeling your home's bathroom then you should add refinishing baseboard heating element covers to the list of tasks to do. Rusty baseboard heating element covers are frequent occurrences in older bathrooms.

The installation of new toilets, tubs, sinks, vanities, and flooring are typically involved in a bathroom remodeling job, however sometimes the heating element is forgotten. If not refinished or replaced, the rusty baseboard heating element covers can look even more unsightly after the rest of the bathroom has been remodeled. Refinishing your Bathroom's Baseboard Heating Element Covers can play a major role in restoring a new look to your bathroom.

If your home is a few years old and has hot water baseboard heating in it, chances are your bathroom baseboard heating element covers are rusted and in need of refinishing.

Bathrooms, as well as Kitchens, Laundry rooms and basements, are more likely to see rusty baseboard heating element covers due to the high moisture levels and condensation that typically occur in them.

There are several rust resistant baseboard heating element covers available on the market today, however it can be very expensive to replace your existing baseboard heating elements with these new products. The other alternative is to refinish and restore your existing baseboard heating element covers with a little sweat equity.

Refinishing or restoring baseboard heating elements is something simple enough for a DIY homeowner to do (with the right knowledge) and can save significant dollars. Installing new baseboard heating elements, on the other hand, typically involves the cost of an entire new heating element and a plumber.

Most hot water baseboard heating elements can be easily dissassembled by simply pulling away the front covers from the bracket assembly. The panels can then be cleaned, sanded and repainted to be restored to a like-new finish and appearance.

So if your thinking about remodeling your bathroom dont forget to include your hot water baseboard heating element covers to the list of tasks to do.

For more information on refinishing and restoring baseboard heating element covers see the Refinishing Baseboard Heating Element Cover Ebook from HomeAdditionPlus.com. The Refinishing Baseboard Heating Element Cover EBook will quickly teach you the step-by-step process for restoring baseboard heating element covers and includes how-to pictures for every key step in the process.

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

Exterior Shutters - Nine Reasons To Remodel With Louvered And Rolling Shutters

Exterior shutters are top-rated window treatment transformers. When remodeling your home, interior design ideas should be balanced with attention to exterior home improvements. With the installation of custom exterior shutters, a benefit bonanza awaits both your family, and your furnishings.

1. Curb Appeal Skyrockets With Exterior Shutters

Whether you use exterior shutters to create a fresh focal point, or to subtly enhance the architecture of your home, the benefit is likely to be seen in an increase in the value of your property. Lightweight, fixed vinyl shutters are inexpensive, yet particularly effective if your aim is simply to add aesthetic appeal. Functional window shutters are more versatile, and feature a number of additional perks.

2. Complement Architecture With Custom Exterior Shutters

Shutter manufacturers thrive on the challenge of designing the perfect window covering for your home. The architecture of your home may come to life with the addition of airy, Caribbean style Bahama shut1249ters. Alternatively, your property may benefit from an introduction to functional fibreglass exterior shutters. These colorful shutters have a wood-like appearance, but are low-maintenance, and often robust enough to warrant storm certification. Perhaps you live in an older home, and are looking for historically accurate window shutter replicas. Home improvement contractors or shutter manufacturers will be able to assist you in making the perfect choice for your property.

3. Set Up A Storm-Shield With Exterior Shutters

Any homeowner in an area known for lashing tropical storms or strong winds, has experienced the devastation that accompanies these onslaughts. The presence of storm shutters or hurricane shutters are reassuring. Wood shutters are commonly seen, as are fibreglass exterior shutters with storm certification. These are reinforced with aluminum, for superb strength. Well-crafted ranges also include a storm bar, which can be engaged from inside your home. This feature serves to protect your window panes. High-caliber aluminum rolling shutters often double as storm shutters.

4. Step Up Security With Exterior Shutters

One of the measures to take if you want to deter would-be intruders, is to install exterior shutters. Wooden shutters can be used for this purpose, or you may consider aluminum rolling shutters. These automated window coverings lock into position when closed. Accordion rolling shutters with their interlocking slats are another popular security choice.

5. Improve Insulation With Exterior Shutters

To have a comfortable home interior, it is important to maximize heat gain during the colder months, while keeping it to a minimum in summer. Exterior shutters are highly efficient in this regard. Wood shutters, or other ranges with operable louvers, offer versatility. Shading is controlled and adjusted according to your preferences and needs. Bahama shutters will refresh you with a cool ocean breeze...

6. Update UV Protection With Exterior Shutters

Functional shutters allow you to limit sun damage to your furniture and furnishings. This constitutes a major saving over time. You will also be spared many a wrinkle, as you will no longer be squinting as a result of glare!

7. Learn About Light Filtering With Exterior Shutters

With exterior shutters in place, you are able to turn your bedroom into a dark, shady, sleep inducing haven in the middle of a bright summer day. Or how about creating the perfect atmosphere for a popcorn-and-movie session on the living room couch? Whether these are benefits, may become debatable!

8. Protect Your Privacy With Exterior Shutters

If inquisitive neighbors or prowlers are a headache, exterior shutters again come to the rescue. They offer complete privacy when and where you need it.

9. No Noise Niggles With Exterior Shutters

One of the many benefits of an exterior shutter is its noise damping effect. Almost all the shutter styles have this quality. Aluminum rolling shutters are especially effective in this regard, due to the double-walled construction, with its unique foam filling. Shutters with a honeycomb structure are also known for this attribute.

Home improvement projects often focus on bathroom and kitchen remodeling, but exterior shutters seem to deserve a spot on the revamp roster!

Awnings-and-Blinds.com - Read the free Sunbrella Awning article at Awnings-and-Blinds.com - also by Rika Susan of Article-Alert.com, where she shows you how to develop your turnkey business idea into an Adsense empire. Copyright of this article: 2006 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.

Wallpaper Tips for Your Home Remodeling Jobs

Putting wallpaper on your walls is one of the easiest and quickest ways to completely change the mood and appearance of a room. Wallpaper comes in a wide variety of styles, textures, colors, and designs. Here is some things you need to know to select and buy the right wallpaper for the job.

First of all, you need to estimate how much wallpaper is going to be needed for the project at hand. So here is a general formula to help you find out. First measure the height and width that needs to be covered. Then be sure to add an extra 10 -- 15% to cover for waste. Once you have this number you can divide it by the square footage rating of whatever paper that you choose. That should give you the figure of how many rolls of wallpaper you are going to need.

Actually it's not a bad idea to add on a few that extra rolls too, especially if you have a complex pattern that requires it. And besides, you may need to make repairs in the future anyway, so having an extra roll or two available can come in very handy later on.

One warning to be aware of regarding wallpaper is that due to the production process, rolls that may appear to be similar in the store will not always look that way when you actually get them on the wall. That's why wallpaper rolls come in what is called dye lots that identify the rolls that actually match. So be sure as you go through and select your wallpaper, that you look for the rolls that all come from the same dye lot.

Most modern vinyl wallpapers already have paste on the back, so it's just a matter of soaking them in water and hanging them on the wall. However there are different kinds of papers that are available. Solid vinyl papers are the most common of all these days, as they are very durable, washable, and easy to hang. There are also other papers that are simply vinyl coated and so therefore are somewhat less durable but still fine for most uses.

More expensive papers include embossed paper that has a raised pattern on it, and it is also easy to hang. Some papers are made of grasscloth, and are especially useful for covering walls that have imperfections or are damaged.

Foil wallpaper is very expensive, although it can quickly brighten up and change a small room if used correctly. Some also like to use fabric wallpaper, but just keep in mind that it does not clean very well or easily, and it can be extremely difficult to hang.

Generally speaking, most wallpaper hangers find that working in a clockwise direction around the room is best for right handed people, and going counterclockwise works best for left-handed people. Wherever you start in the room is largely up to you, but try to select a major focal point to begin with.

Selecting and hanging wallpaper is well within the reach of most homeowners. So it is one of those home improvement projects that almost anyone can do with a little determination and practice. So why not give it a try in your home?

Thad Pickering writes on many consumer related topics including home improvement. You can find out more about bathroom remodeling ideas and basement remodeling ideas by visiting our Home Improvement website.

Women Love Them And So Do Men

Your bathroom vanity cabinet can be one of the nicest additions to your bathroom. Whether it is to be used primarily by only one person or by a number of people, your choice in style and set-up can be a lovely enhancement to one of the most frequently used rooms in your home.

One of the most essential features on a vanity cabinet for the lady in your home is the lighted make-up mirror. Although some vanity cabinets do not contain this feature, it is ideal for women and teenaged girls. A lighted make-up mirror is designed with a variety of optional lights, so that cosmetics can be applied in the lighting which best resembles the lighting in which the person will be wearing them.

Lighting Up

A lighted vanity mirror is not only for women, however; it is also quite useful for men when shaving. These mirrors provide much better lighting for this process than the plain overhead lighting that is already in most bathrooms. All you need to do is switch the lighting to the form which is best for your specific needs.

While vanity cabinets look very nice when they display perfume bottles and other such items, you can give your bathroom a much more pleasant appearance by choosing a bathroom vanity cabinet which has enough drawer space for the women's cosmetic collections and the men's shaving supplies. If the cabinet you choose also has small shelving, this will also help keep your bathroom better organized with cans of shaving cream, hair spray, and other larger items which do not fit as neatly in the drawers.

Selection Of Material

You can select a vanity cabinet in a nice wood tone that will highlight your bathroom; or, if you prefer, you can find one in wicker or metal materials. Whichever style best suits your own personal tastes, you can keep your cabinet neat and clean by lining the drawers and shelves with colorful shelf-lining paper.

In addition to enhancing the appearance of your cabinet, this will also help to preserve its quality, as it will keep spills and other residue from ruining your cabinet. Shelf-lining paper, which can also be found in moisture-resistant material, is available in an almost limitless variety of designs and colors, so you will be able to easily find the exact style which suits your individual preferences.

Wall Mount

You also have the choice between a wall-mounted vanity cabinet and the larger style which often includes a small stool or other seating designed to make applying cosmetics and other grooming easier and more comfortable. Depending on both the size of your room and the needs of those who will be using it, you can select whichever style is most appropriate for you.

Even if you have a very small bathroom, it is not necessary to do without this all-important furnishing, as you can find a size that is suitable. As you can see, there are a number of practical uses for bathroom vanity cabinets; the one you choose can be both practical and tasteful in appearance at the same time.

Ernest Jarquio is a successful Webmaster and publisher of Bathrooms-And-Showers.com. He provides more resources on topics such as Delta bathroom faucets, bathroom remodelers and natural bath salts that you can research on his website even while lounging in your living room.

Tips When Selecting Your Bathroom Tile Designs

Bathroom tile designs can be the basis of great decor. If your bathroom is stark, replacing the tiles instead of the fixtures may be your best option. Unique tiles can help transform your guest or master bath into a relaxing retreat. In this article, we've got some tips and design ideas that can guide you to your ideal new bathroom design.

Some materials, like natural stone are inappropriate for the high moisture environment of bathrooms. Most people opt for glass, porcelain and ceramic tiles because of their durability and installation ease.

Tile size is also another consideration, especially for the shower enclosures or area. Large tiles work better on the walls since they create the illusion of a bigger bathroom. If you're on a tight budget, don't tile the entire bathroom. Instead, create an interesting tile backsplash or as a frame on painted walls.

Bathroom tile designs can be a lifesaver if you're trying to make small bathrooms appear more spacious. Brightness creates the illusion of space, so choose light colored tiles. If that's too plain for what you have in mind, insert white accent tiles into your pattern.

However, take care not to go crazy with color because the room will end up being too busy. There are beautiful ceramic tiles on the market that are still interesting, but save the work of creating a pattern yourself. When in doubt - hire bathroom contractors. It costs a little more but it's money well spent.

No stylish bathroom is complete without a beautiful floor. It's best to use a warm color for floor tiling to offset the cool look of the fixtures. While white and neutral colors such as almond and gray remain the most popular for bathrooms, colors are becoming more popular.

To jazz up its designs, set square tiles diagonally to create a diamond pattern instead of a classic checkerboard. Use a single color or alternate two neutrals of slightly varying saturation, for example a soft ivory and an almond.

It's very important that you choose one that has some texture to it. Since the area is prone to water spills, a slick surface may present a hazard. A tile with a small amount of subtle texture will help prevent accidents.

As well, for a luxurious touch designer bathrooms incorporate, you can warm up the cold one with electric floor heating. Turning your cold one into a warm surface will help you recreate the warm atmosphere of a comfortable spa.

Your bathroom tiles can set the tone for the whole space. A dynamic flooring pattern or a deep wall color can make all the difference as you remodel a bathroom. The real key is not going overboard with tiles that make the room too busy.

Most people want their bathrooms to be relaxing, so don't let your bathroom tile designs become too ornate. Give your choices a lot of thought before you commit to a unique look because you're committing to a design that will be a part of your home addition for a long time.

Visit Mike Selvon showers portal for more information on bathroom tile designs, and leave a comment at our interior design blog. Don't forget to claim your FREE gift.

Building Your Own House

I started building my own home in 1989 with absolutely no experience in building a home. Within six months my contractor went bankrupt and left me with a half finished house. The problem was the half that was finished was done wrong. The Foundation was already cracking, and the wood framing wasn't built anywhere near what the drawings called for. What follows are the most important lessons I learned from building my own house.

1) Don't count on anybody to do their job right

Just because an architect has a nice office and a good reputation doesn't mean the drawings will be done properly. Just because the contractor comes highly recommended doesn't mean he won't rip you off and do shoddy work. In all my experience I've never run across a group of more shady characters than contractors and sub-contractors. You must stay on top of the entire home building project if you want to keep from losing all your money and getting a house that you hate.

2) Plan Everything about Your Home Building Project in As Much Detail as Possible Up Front

Contractors love nothing more than a home builder who isn't sure what he wants, and decides to fill in the details as the house is being built. Why? Because once the contractor has the job, he can charge you anything for changes that weren't in the contract. My contractor wanted to charge me $10,000 to add a small staircase to a room. I found a sub-contractor to do it for $1800. My contractor wanted to charge me $15,000 to add a fireplace to a den. When I asked how much he would discount the price to NOT build a fireplace in the living room, he said he would discount $1500 from the price. Trust me, when you make changes you're going to get ripped off.

3) Plan On the Project Costing 50% More and Taking Twice As Long

I'm sorry to burst any bubbles here, but this is a fact of building your own home. Whatever you think it's going to cost -add 50% more to the price. And however long you think the project is going to take -double. The only exception to this is if you have a top of the line contractor who gave you a very high quote to begin with, or if you have incentives in the contract to pay the contractor more if he gets the job done sooner.

Get the latest home improvement tips at: http://www.buildingmymansion.com

Install Hardwood Floor Panels

There are a variety of methods for installing hardwood flooring. The nail down technique of laying hardwood floors has become very popular. For those learning how to install hardwood floor, there's no simpler or straightforward technique than the nail down technique.

Unlike other methods which basically require you to be an amateur carpenter or even a professional carpenter, the nail down method on how to install hardwood flooring can be accomplished by anyone who can swing a hammer. Well, that's not all it takes. You also have to be persistent, patient, and willing to try new things if you want to learn how to install hardwood floor. Also, you need to be willing to read the safety instructions that come with the tools you'll be using.

Tools You'll Need as Your Learn How to Install Hardwood Floor Panels

Broom and Dust Pan - You need to clean up constantly as you learn how to install hardwood floor to make sure no dirt, sawdust, or other debris get caught in between the grooves or under the boards.

Carpenter's Crayon - Use this to create guidelines on your sub floor. You'll also need it to draw lines where you'll cut your hardwood panels.

Claw Hammer - Any areas near obstacles or walls where you can't get enough space to swing a rubber mallet will have to be reached with your claw hammer.

Cutter Knife - Use this often for unforeseen activities involved as you learn how to install hardwood floor. But the main purpose of this device will be to cut out any excess wood when adjustments of only a millimeter or two need to be made.

Electric Drill and 3/32" Drill Bit - Use this to drill your pilot holes, which should be slightly smaller in length and circumference than your nails. This will prevent your flooring panels from cracking when you put the nails in them.

Hardwood Flooring Nails (2") - These nails are important because they will be what hold your floor in place.

Nailer - This can either be a hammer or pneumatic nail gun. The pneumatic nail gun is obviously faster and easier, but you have to get it calibrated just right so that the nails don't go too far down into the wood and destroy your hardwood panels.

Rubber Mallet - This is your chance to pound your frustrations out as you learn how to install hardwood floor. Actually, you should pound them out gently to bring the surfaces of the two panels together perfectly. You don't want to get them too far apart or your floor will have crevices. But if you pound them too hard together, you can damage them or push them so far together as to bow them.

Circular Saw - At the end of each row of boards as you go into the corner, you will need to cut your floor panels to fit. Any fixtures in t5B4he room will also have to be cut around.

Preparing to Install Hardwood Floor Panels

Although the nail down method of installing hardwood floor panels is pretty simple, it should still be done carefully as the hardwood floor has to endure for many years in whatever form you complete it.

All of the furniture and obstacles that can be removed from the room should be removed while you install your hardwood floor panels. This is true even if it requires manual dismantling and reassembly. For those fixtures build into the floor of the room, you'll just have to panel around them. It's not the easiest way to go, but you have to do what you have to do to get your hardwood floor installed. If you have door sills, an old hardwood floor, baseboards, or carpet, remove them before you begin as well.

If the surface beneath where you will be flooring is cement or any other lumpy material, use a felt floor liner to cover this surface. Then install a plywood sub-floor over it. Once laid, you should be ready to begin installing the hardwood floor.

Steps on How to Install Hardwood Floor Panels

1. Put your first floor panel in the corner of the room in which you have decided to start your flooring. The grooves should be toward the wall and the tongues should be toward the room.

2. Start adding panels to make a row. The last panel shouldn't quite fit right, so you'll have to use that carpenter's crayon 5B4to mark where to cut it. Use your circular saw to cut it. Be very careful not to cut it too small. The fitting needs to be just about perfect.

3. Use your drill to make your little pilot holes. Put the nails in to fasten your floor down. Though it will take longer, you'll be thankful when you're done if you used pilot holes when you're learning how to install hardwood floor.

4. Grab the other half of the panel you cut off the row you just completed and use it as the starting point for the next row. This will seem strange at first, but when the floor is completed, the offset of the boards will look really nice. Additionally, if all of your boards matched up, the floor won't have interlocked strength.

5. Continue on doing this as you go through the remaining rows. Use the rubber mallet as necessary to make the boards and rows nice and snug. When the rubber mallet won't fit, use the claw hammer to pull the boards tight. The last things you need are some giant crevices between your boards when you've finished your new hardwood floor.

6. The last panel is the hardest one to get put in place, but your floor will look really awful if you hurry at this step. You need to patiently measure, cut, and make your last panel fit.

7. Clean the floor you just laid.

Cleaning Up After You Install Hardwood Floor Panels

In the process of how to install hardwood floors, cleaning up is important and overlooked 5B4enough to warrant its own follow-up section. But unlike other nail down method guides on how to install hardwood floor panels, we want to make sure you understand this step.

Cleaning up is important because there are little wood chips and saw dust everywhere after the typical hardwood floor installation. Use your broom and dust pan to pick up any debris on the floor. These particles, if walked on and rubbed on by furniture, can make your brand new floor look like a scratched up old floor pretty quickly.

Unless you went beyond the instructions on how to install hardwood floors and used glue on your hardwood panels, there's no need to get your floor wet before it has had a chance to settle. This is because you don't want it to swell before you've moved the furniture back in and given it a couple days to get itself in its final arrangement.

Special Tips Add-On on How to Install Hardwood Floor Panels

Don't get too aggressive when putting your hardwood flooring in place. It's very easy to ruin the surface of floor panels when they're floating freely and you're placing them and pounding on them. Be especially careful when fixing a row that looks a little bit off.

If your rubber mallet is sturdy enough, it'll be the best thing to put nails in because it won't do as much damage to the surface of your floor panels.

Your nailed down floor probably isn't going to be quite as nice as the one installed by a590 professional. On the other hand, it's going to look pretty nice on its own. It will probably be about the nicest looking job an inexperienced hardwood floor installer can do. And if you change your mind about the floor, it's one of the easiest hardwood floor installation methods to undo.

But besides being easy to install and uninstall, nailed down hardwood floor has some usage advantages over other types. The main advantage to keep in mind is that a glued down floor is rigid; once a floor panel is dried in place, it's there for good whether it's snug to the next panel over or not. The loose floor isn't attached to anything and can be creaky, bubbly, and move around. So enjoy your new well-fixed hardwood floor.

Niv Orlian is an experienced Home Improvement Adviser who writes articles for his Flooring & Carpet Cleaning online guides.
Visit myflooringhelper.com to learn more about How to Install Hardwood Floor

How To Repair Plaster For Fun, Or For Profit

When your plaster is damaged and needs repair, or is just plain ugly, what do you do? The quick way to deal with it is just call in a professional and hope you get a good job for your money. But there is another alternative. Yes, you can learn to repair your own plaster. By doing that, you gain both the experience of learning a new skill and the thrill of doing a respectable job you can be proud of.

In my years as a plaster repair and renovation specialist, I have seen many homeowners fix their own plaster (with some prior instruction, of course). For some, the one time experience of plaster repair was enough. But others had more fun and more thrill in the process, and were eager to tackle new challenges. They went on to do occasional plaster repair for friends or relatives. And I believe they had the energy and the ability to go even further, should they have chosen to do it for profit

I got my start in plaster repair and renovation while working as a drywall finisher. When we came across old plaster on a job, we repaired it and beautified it using drywall tools and finishing materials. And it worked great. And my experience with hundreds of clients in the following years taught me two things: it's not that hard to learn, and there is a huge market out there waiting to be served.

Every city and town across the US and Canada (and probably in the UK as well) has homes and commercial buildings with interiors walls and ceilings covered with gypsum plaster. A high percentage of these are wood framed structures subject to various environmental stresses. Human traffic, holes cut for changes in plumbing and wiring, water leaks, flexing in the framing - all these result in damage to the integrity of these plaster surfaces.

How does someone get into the business of fixing plaster for paying clients?

As already indicated, experience in actually doing plaster repair is essential. If you don't have your own bad plaster to work on, you can do it as a favor for others. You will need good instruction, so you can avoid making false starts and unnecessary mistakes. In any case, some mistakes you may make (they are not hard to rectify). That is just part of the learning curve. But if you can follow good directions, you will gain competence a lot faster.

Maybe you know someone who works with old plaster. Offer to tag along as a helper, just for the learning experience. A lot of this is simply gaining skill and speed with the drywall finishing tools you will be using, and with the drywall finishing compounds. For that, you can even learn to do drywall finishing, as prep for doing the plaster repair later.

A good place to focus would be on repairing plaster holes, and on doing skim coating. These can be learned quickly and don't require lots of tools. Plumbers and electricians routinely make holes in drywall and plaster. Somebody has to follow behind them and repair the damage. These technicians would love to have someone they can call regularly, to finish up the project with neat repairs.

Paperhangers are another category of tradespeople who are a ready source of work for the plaster repair person. Before they can hang wallpaper, they need to smooth out rough drywall and plaster surfaces first. This usually involves applying skim coats of drywall compound. They may do it themselves, but many don't like to do it. As a rule, a paperhanger would rather hang paper, not skim coat.

For someone starting out, I would suggest this as a part time thing to begin with. You may decide that for now, that is fine. But some will go on to do plaster repair as a profession.

And we need 'em. In my experience, there is always lots of room for good craftspeople. The money is good, and job satisfaction can be a great plus for the committed and conscientious tradesman.

One last point. If you decide to do plaster repair and renovation for profit, you will be engaging in a profession that state governments do regulate. For the protection of the public, you will most likely need to be licensed and bonded. In my state, you take some classes and then you apply for recognition and pay your fees. Now you are on your way.

Edwin Brown has been a specialist in the field of plaster and drywall repair and renovation for over 35 years. He lives in a small city on the west coast of the US. He offers a free email course called HOW TO REPAIR YOUR PLASTER RIGHT, thereby avoiding the ten common mistakes people make in plaster repair. Go to http://www.plaster-wall-ceiling-solutions.com/plaster-repair-instruction.html

Add Function and Eye Appeal

Bathroom sink vanities are items that are both functional and attractive. They can add considerable appeal to a bathroom and may be a good investment when trying to sell a home. Most buyers are known to put a great deal of importance into both bathrooms and kitchens, and a bathroom vanity is far less expensive than a kitchen remodel!

What is included bathroom sink vanities depends on the taste and budget of the homeowner. It can also depend on family size and needs. While the standard one sink models may be fine for most people, in a master bath, or a bath shared by several children, a double sink model may make more sense.

Most bathroom sink vanities will include storage space underneath, a mirror above the sink, countertops as standards. Options available are things like soap dishes and towel and facecloth hangers, drawers, and even electrical fixtures for hairdryers and other appliances. Those with more features naturally will usually cost more than plainer ones.

Styles can be ultramodern gleaming chrome, purely functional simple woods, thrifty molded synthetics, or elegant antique-looking cabinetry. Sometimes actual antique pieces can be adapted to create one of a kind vanities and a decor5A2 can be designed around such a stunning showpiece. Vanities come in unfinished woods to be custom stained or paint, or ready to use when brought home.

A less ambitious way to get a custom unit without the expense of a converted antique or purchased replica, bathroom sink vanities can be made from used furniture obtained at garage sales or found in storage. A person who is reasonably good with home repair can measure and cut an opening for a sink and for plumbing fixtures after finding suitable fixtures. Of course, counter tops need water resistant finishes.

There are many sources for inexpensive ready made bathroom sink vanities that may be quite suitable. Large home stores usually carry a lot of them and often have sales, and there are some online dealers who specialize in discount vanities. Most vanities cost only a few hundred dollars, although you can spend much more, and the small investment can add a lot of pleasure and usefulness as well as enhancing the sale value and appeal.

Rob Buenaventura has worked in the home improvement industry for several years. Learn more about bathroom vanities, contemporary bathroom vanities, and 29Fmodern bathroom vanities at LuxuryBathroomVanities.com.

Some Tips for Building a Home Scrapbooking Room

If you are considering building a home scrapbooking room, you must be very serious about your hobby. And it is no wonder, since this craft is relaxing, creative, and a way to save precious family photos and mementos. It is fast becoming one of the more popular hobbies in the world, and many people are also building a home scrapbooking room for themselves. So ho1C60w can you go about doing this?

First, when talking about building a home scrapbooking room, chances are you don't really mean building a new room on your house. This is a lot of expense and trouble to go through just for a hobby. Although if those are your plans, there is nothing wrong with that! If you are in the construction industry or can afford to hire someone to do this renovation for you, then who are we to stop you? But most of us, when you think of building a home scrapbooking room you really mean converting and redecorating a room you already have, such as an empty bedroom or den, or even a corner of the basement. How can you go about doing this without breaking the bank, and what do you need to remember?

Keep in mind that you need a place with adequate light in order to do your page layouts properly. Most scrappers need to work with very small elements and so adequate light is necessary. Whether you are building a home scrapbooking room from nothing or converting another room, be sure that if there is not enough natural light that you have plenty of places for bright lamps. You also need adequate space to work, so room for a nice sized desk is also necessary. Serious scrappers know how hard it is to work when you are cramped or when your materials are all stacked on top of each other.

And speaking of materials, when building a home scrapbooking room you need to have space for all your items and whatever methods of organizing you are using. You might need to invest in a desktop organizer or some other items, but having adequate space for boxes, bins, envelopes, and things like these is crucial. Having your papers get crumpled and the smaller items get lost is only going to detract from your hobby.

The decorations in your room should reflect your craft style and your personality. Consider selecting a color scheme using your favorite colors to scrapbook. Make sure you plan for storing your scrapbooking supplies, and make sure the containers that will be on display are attractive as well. Since scrapbooking is all about preserving photos and memories, don't forget to have plenty of photos on the walls. Another fun idea is to buy 12x12 shadow box frames and display your favorite pages in them.

Whatever you do by way of building a home scrapbooking room, be sure that you actually enjoy working in that space. If you are serious enough about your hobby to devote a room in your house to it, you must plan to spend a lot of time there. You may even want to place another workspace so you can invite a friend to scrapbook with you. A room of your own to create scrapbooking pages is an investment that will bring you many years of enjoyment.

Christine Perry is an avid scrapbooker and has over 10 years of scrapbooking experience. Her favorite scrapbooking subjects are her reluctant teenagers. She invites you to her website, http://www.intoscrapbooking.com for more scrapbooking ideas and scrapbooking metal embellishments.

Pool Ladders

Pool ladders are installed in almost all swimming pools. They are used to climb in and out of the pool. There is a wide collection of ladders available for both in-ground and aboveground pools. They are available in aluminum, white vinyl, structural plastic, resin and stainless steel materials. Color choice does not vary much, since painting them is not viable. Some of them are lined with anti-skid material to avoid slips and falls. They come with easy assembling techniques and provide a few years warranty. They are available with outdoor equipment suppliers, hardware stores, pool accessories suppliers and on the Internet.

For in ground pools, ladders generally h5B4ave 2-5 steps going towards the deck. The ladders could have a platform or could just land straight on the deck. The height and shape of the ladder should be compatible to your pool. Various types of ladders suitable to vinyl liner pools and concrete and fiberglass pools can be found. They need to be secured to the pool at both the upper and lower ends.

For above ground pools, A-frame shape ladders are commonly used for climbing into the pool. They need to be filled with sand or water to avoid floating in the pool. Very frequently they come with a platform at the top. Again, one must check the height of the pool, although a few inches are adjustable in most models. For these pool ladders, the weight of those using the ladder is a factor. For safety reasons, most of these ladders come with a padlock and an anti-entrapment barrier that inhibits trapping of children or swimmers between the ladder and the pool. For security reasons, some have a swing-up outer section that prevents unauthorized access to the pool. One can even find specially designed pool ladders for easy access by handicap persons. These would have steps arranged to allow easy entry by the handicapped or elderly.

Ladders provides detailed information about ladders, pool ladders, boat ladders, step ladde16D0rs and more. Ladders is the sister site of School Playground Equipment.

Thanksgiving Craft: DIY Leaf Napkin Rings

These classy looking autumn inspired napkin rings will add the perfect touch to any Thanksgiving feast. As an added bonus they are very easy to make and cost next to nothing.

To see the image of the completed project, visit http://www.dotcomwomen.com/crafts/thanksgiving/leaf-napkin-rings.shtml

What You Will Need

1. Salt

2. Flour

3. Water

4. Rolling pin

5. Cutting board

6. Cookie sheet covered with aluminum foil

7. Golden yellow paint or some other autumn color.

8. Fine tipped paintbrush

9. Ribbon in a dark autumn color such as maroon.

10. Leaf button or small leaf stamp

11. Sharp kitchen knife

12. Fake autumn leaves (these can often be found in the craft section of most stores)

13. Hot glue gun

Directions:

1. First you will need to make the salt dough.

2. In a medium bowl mix: 1 Cup salt, 1 Cup flour and Cup water.

3. Knead the dough until it reaches a clay-like consistency. If it is too sticky add more flour. If it is too dry add more water.

4. Put a small amount of flour on the area where you will be rolling out the dough and spread it evenly so that the dough will not stick.

5. Roll out the dough with the rolling pin until it is about a of an inch thick.

6. Use the button or stamp to make an impression in the dough.

7. Use the knife to cut a rectangle or square around the impression.

8. Place the pieces on the cookie sheet. Make sure you place them on the sheet with the indent facing up.

9. When you have made as many as you need. Turn the oven to warm and put the pan in the oven.

10. The amount of time it will take to dry the pieces depends on the oven. So check them constantly. It will most likely take about 2-3 hours for them to dry completely. When they are done they will be hard, light and make a hollow sound when tapped on.

11. When they are done, paint the indent with your chosen color.

12. Allow the paint to dry.

13. Plug in the hot glue gun.

14. Cut the ribbon into four inch long pieces.

15. Choose leaves for the napkin rings and remove stems if necessary.

16. With the hot glue gun, put glue on the back of a salt dough piece and attach it to the front of a leaf, so that the piece is slightly slanted.

17. When the glue has dried turn the leaf over and put a small line of glue towards the base of the leaf.

18. Attach the ribbon so that it forms a ring.

19. Use as you would any other napkin ring.

Article Dot Com Women. For more Thanksgiving craft and decorating projects, visit http://www.dotcomwomen.com/crafts/thanksgiving.shtml

Small Bathroom Ideas - Making Small Bathrooms Feel Spacious

Most of the time a tiny bathroom is not your main bathroom, and least you hope not, b1C3But an extra bathroom that is located elsewhere in the home. Many times this bathroom is located in the interior of the home, which makes it not only cramped, but dark as well. Even in these situations there are small bathroom ideas that you can use to make the most out of the room.

If you are considering completely rearranging everything even the larger fixtures in the room, you probably will want to consult an architect or a designer to help you since it will involve moving electrical wiring and plumbing connections. Together, you can sit down and go over the options that are available to you in order to see if there is a way that you can update the room to include a larger bathtub or a stand-alone deluxe shower stall. Sometimes it is feasible that a wall can be knocked out or moved in order to add needed space.

If major renovation is not possible, there are still many tips and ideas that you may be able to utilize in order to give the appearance of a bigger room. First, consider the bathroom door. Can it be changed to swing in the other direction? That alone may lessen the feeling of claustrophobia. Or you may wish to consider changing it to a sliding door or even bifold closet doors in order to save some space. In most bathrooms the vanity cupboard and sink take up a lot of space. You may wish to replace this with a stand-alone pedestal sink, which will increase the look and feel of the room and make it seem less cluttered. If you are worried that you will be losing storage space, consider hanging wall units, shelving or hanging baskets to hold supplies. The more floor space that you can see will make the room seem bigger.

When incorporating small bathroom ideas it is very important to decorate with lighter colors that makes the room feel brighter and even bigger than it really is. Always be liberal in your use of mirrors, as they tend to increase the look and achieve the illusion of a bigger room. The type of lighting that you choose will also make the difference between a dark and dreary room and a light and cheery one. If there is no way to add a window or even a skylight to the room, consider your choice of illumination. Incandescent or fluorescent lighting will achieve completely different looks.

Having a small bathroom is not necessarily a bad thing. It is a smaller space to renovate and decorating it can be a breeze. Use these small bathroom ideas to create a room that feels less like a closet and more like an enjoyable getaway location.

For additional inspiration and ideas for remodeling your bathroom try visiting http://remodelingabathroomguide.com, a popular bathroom remodeling website that includes information on how remodeling planner software can catch problems before the remodeling job begins.

Environmentally Friendly Plans

The eB5Anvironment has become a concern in all areas of life including our choice of home design. Taking this into account with your next home is fairly simple and can actually save you money.

The Green Movement is the term given to a greater awareness of the environmental impact of many different areas in daily life. Our choice of dwelling is one of the important things that can have a great impact on the environment. This has often been overlooked in the past as we have looked for environmental culprits further from home. Eco Friendly Home Plans are design concepts for homes that recognize how much the individual home can help or harm the environment.

Energy consumption is one of the major issues of the Green movement. The ever increasing demand for energy has created environmental problems associated with the burning of coal and oil and the transport and storage of these fossil fuels. The eco friendly home will be designed as energy efficient as possible. The use of alternative cooling and heating methods such as solar panels will most certainly be a part of the design. Energy efficient windows and doors and insulation will be used.

The emphasis on energy efficiency in the eco friendly home plan is a win/win kind of a deal for the homeowner. The home that is energy efficient is contributing to the environmental well being of the planet, but it is also keeping money in your pocket through savings in energy costs.

Energy considerations are not the only ones in an eco friendly home plan. The choices of building materials and the landscaping of the area around the home are other considerations that can be done more or less environmentally sound. True eco friendly home plans would pay close attention to the source and content of all building materials from the actual building materials to the paint used to cover them.

In many areas, some of the ideas that have began as eco friendly plans have been moving closer to actual codes and laws. There have also been substantial tax credits offered for following Green guidelines in design and building. It makes a lot of sense, for a number of reasons, to make sure that your new home plan is an eco friendly home plan. It is one of those decisions that helps us now and does a little bit for the future as well.

Aazdak Alisimo writes home articles for http://www.HomePlansPlanet.com

Small Bathroom Design Simplified

You will find that majority of the modern homes have a limited bathroom space. Homeowners in such a scenB68ario usually accommodate within that limited space, as they do not have any other option. Thus, it is a fact that the small bathroom designs, which make the best use of the space that is available, are now most in demand by the homeowners.

The following guidelines on small bathroom designs are conveniently applicable in case you are designing a bathroom for your new apartment or renovating your old bathroom.

- The small bathrooms look best with the small and deep bathtubs.

- The wall-mounted or pedestal sinks, basins and the small sized baths are simply made for each other, as they hardly occupy much floor space.

- In case, you prefer a shower stall, it is best to use clear shower screens for the enclosure. The best part of this is you will be able to save enough space and make way for enough light, which is unlike the framed opaque shower walls.

- You can have recessed and floating cabinets in your bathroom; this should make ample space.

- The small bathroom designs usually come with enough storage space for you to be able to stash away lots of clutter. Therefore, ensure that your bathroom has enough storage shelves and cabinets.

- Place the windows near the ceiling; this way, there will be enough wall space for you to include some storage cabinets beneath it.

- You would be clever enough to position the toilet in an alcove, by making use of the wall-space above for fix opening the shelves.

- When it comes to doors, most of the people are going for the sliding doors, which can be easily slid into the in-wall cavities. If you are opting for the hinged door, you can get the towel-rack installed on the door itself.

The homeowners need to abide by certain design - as well as dimension-parameters when planning the small bathroom designs, which depend on the area/zone. You can also try out a few optical illusion tricks for creating a space illusion.

Making use of light and mirrors

When you want the space inside your bathroom to look large, you can take the help of lights and mirrors. Try to make use of natural lights, which would surely make your bathroom look more bright and large, generating a sense of comfy. You can also try adding skylights and windows. This is indeed a great idea. However, when thinking to make use of electric lighting, you can arrange for the source of the light just below where the shelves have been installed.

When you place a mirror inside the bathroom, it helps in proper distribution of light and this seems to extend the overall dimension of the space. Such a strategy makes your small bathroom look effectively illuminated and it gives way to visual expansiveness.

Make use of tricky designs

Introduce vertical lines on the upper edges of the walls of your bathroom. This helps in creating height7B2 illusion. You can also have tiles installed on the walls of your bathroom and edge the top lining with designed border tiles to make things look more magical and impressive.

This is the way you should make use of the floor area of your bathroom and the type of tiles you choose to use for your bathroom should well compliment all sorts of small bathroom designs. No matter what you are going for - floor tiles or wall tiles they should be having identical shapes and light colored shades.

Making use of color to create illusions

Color is the best way of creating space illusions. Choose softer, lighter tones like pastel shades, neutrals or whites - these colors are sure to make your bathroom look as if having enough space and dimension.  Such colors also help in proper light distribution. Again, if you are planning to cover the walls of your bathroom with wallpapers then make sure to select plain and simple designs.

Read our Home Improvement newsletter with new fresh articles every week, Kitchen, Basement, Bathroom improvements and many other subjects at Do It Yourself Tips

Building a Future - Bachelor of Science in Construction Management

As the single-largest industry in the U.S., theres no doubt that construction plays a pivotal role in the nation's economy. After all, without heavy equipment, construction equipment operators, and building inspectors, we wouldn't have any skyscrapers, freeways, apartment buildings, or bridges. So, when it comes to getting in on some of the hottest careers around, this industry will always provide more than its share of employment opportunities. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts that employment opportunities for construction managers will exceed the number of qualified candidates from now through 2014.

That said a construction management degree may be the best way to break into this lucrative field.

Construction Management Degrees: Paving the Way to Success
Many colleges, universities and technical schools are now offering a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management. This type of construction management degree is designed to provide a Foundation in construction management, techniques, and legal issues relating to the field. Areas of study can include building codes, site construction and measurement, project management, construction safety management, and more. Instruction on mechanical systems and materials are also typically included in these programs.

Here is a closer look at some of the jobs you can land with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management:

Building Inspectors. In this position, your priority will be keeping buildings safe and up to code. Youll double-check repairs, alterations, and construction of buildings and other structures to make sure they are in compliance with local, state, and federal ordinances and zoning laws.

Construction Manager. If you enjoy planning and coordinating, this is the job for you. From construction superintendent to project engineer to general construction manager youll be the glue that holds an entire project together. You may plan and direct a single project, or manage pieces of a larger project. Basically, youll oversee construction supervisors and workers.

Heavy Equipment Operators. Construction equipment operators use machinery to move heavy materials such as earth and construction equipment. Typical responsibilities include operating equipment such as bulldozers, as well as using road graders and tamping equipment to build roads and other large structures. With relatively high hourly pay and a good job outlook, this could be a great career option if youre interested in earning a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management.

Show Me the Money
So you may be wondering, How much do these jobs actually pay? Well, that depends on a lot of factors. Pay for these positions will vary based on the size and nature of the construction project, its geographic location, and economic conditions. But according to the BLS, median annual earnings of construction managers as of May 2004 were $69,870. The middle 50 percent earned between $53,430 and $92,350. The lowest-paid 10 percent earned less than $42,120. And according to a July 2005 salary survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, candidates with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management received job offers averaging $42,923 a year right out of school.

Some of the courses you can expect to take while getting your construction management degree include:
Project Management
Statics and Strength of Materials
Building Codes
Project Scheduling
Cost Estimating and Analysis
Legal Issues in Construction

If this sounds good to you, its time to start finding a place to get your degree. If youd like to get a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management but just dont have the time or freedom for traditional classes, keep in mind that many schools now let you get your entire construction management degree online. If this is the way you want to go, be sure and check out the programs at each of the colleges youre interested in.

Sandra Callahan is an educational consultant specializing in technology-based education. In addition, Callahan counsels students pursuing various technology-related degrees and writes online articles devoted to the topics she knows best. Callahan still indulges her lifelong love of learning by taking online classes as well as yoga and cooking classes which she takes in person near her home.

Save Money, Buy Energy Saving Light Bulbs

Everyone likes to save money when they can - and there are hundreds of ways you can save money. In this article, I want to talk to you about saving money by buying energy saving light bulbs. I'll give you a few tips on why these light bulbs are better than the traditional bulbs currently in use and why you should consider switching.

The technology for the traditional light bulb has not changed much in the past 200 years since Edison invented the incandescent bulb. The technology for compact fluorescent light bulbs, on the other hand, has changed dramatically over the past few years.

These new bulbs are designed to be environmentally friendly, use less energy, and last several times longer than traditional bulbs.

Energy saving or energy efficient light bulbs such as the compact fluorescent light bulb (CFL) use up to 75% less electricity than your standard light bulbs while at the same time producing about the same amount of light. Using less electricity to light up your home can save you hundreds on your electricity bills over the life of the new bulbs.

Another benefit of the energy efficient light bulb is that it will last about ten times longer, so you'll only have to change it once every few years compared to changing a traditional bulb every couple months. And if you have high ceilings and have to use a ladder just to change the bulb, this can save you several hours over the course of a year.

One main concern about using these new light bulbs is the cost. Technological improvements and increases in demand have brought down the costs of these efficient bulbs down to a no-brainer decision.

You get the convenience of not having to change a light bulb for a few years, the lower electricity bill - you could potentially save up to 10% each month on your bill, and you get to reduce pollution and help prevent climate change all at the same time just by using a CFL bulb.

The one environmental concern about these new bulbs is that they do contain a trace amount of mercury and need to be disposed of properly or recycled. You can usually return them to the store you bought them from or you can find a recycling location in your area by going to http://www.lamprecycle.org/

There are several benefits to buying energy saving light bulbs as I've outlined in this article. You do not have to be an environmentalist to want to switch to these bulbs. You can do it just to save money on your electricity bills.

Adam Hofstetler does buy energy saving light bulbs to save money and offers tips to help you choose the right bulbs for your home at his site http://www.buyenergysavinglightbulbs.com/

4 Carpet Cleaning Tips In Hiring Professionals

There are two ways to clean carpets. You can hire professional cleaners from cleaning companies then there is the DIY (do it yourself) method.

In many cases, people prefer to hire carpet cleaning services. Still, there are guidelines to follow. Here are some carpet cleaning tips in hiring professionals:

1. Number of carpets to be cleaned.

Take for instance; your carpet never ever really underwent deep cleansing since the time you have bought it, and you are living in a 2-storey house wherein all the rooms contain carpets. Moreover, your kids have inevitably left marks besides its general wearing and tearing.

In this case, hiring a professional carpet cleaner is advised. If only small carpet areas need cleaning, then you can do it yourself. There are lots of cleaning products that are doing well even with tough stains.

2. Consider your budget.

Keep in mind that you need to pay a considerable amount of money when you hire someone to do the carpet cleaning for you.

3. Know the advantages of hiring a professional carpet cleaner.

They have the expertise in cleaning even the worst carpet stains. Their equipments have more extraction powers compared to the units that you have. Their knowledge about cleaning agents is incomparable to you, besides they also know the distinctions between carpet fibers and construction.

4. Ask recommendations from friends.4D8

Usually, they are good sources of information about reputable companies offering carpet cleaning services. You can observe their cleaning jobs when visiting some friends who also prefer carpet cleaning services.

Other sources of information are the internet and local business directories. Numerous reputable companies are advertising their services online. They really offer the best deals on carpet cleaning jobs.

To learn more house cleaning tips, visit my home cleaning site.

Asbestos In The Home

Many building products, over the years, have contained asbestos. Many of these products are still present in homes that were built prior to the mid-1980's. So What exactly should you know about asbestos?

Homeowners fear the word "asbestos." The most common places to find asbestos are probably old asbestos-cement siding, old asbestos flooring or asbestos that was used as insulation on heating ducts and heating systems. The general guideline is that, as long as asbestos is confined - so the fibers cannot escape and become airborne, it is not much of a problem. Of course if, down the road, a remodel is in order any asbestos material has to be treated as hazardous waste.

There are two very common household products that might - or might not - contain asbestos. It is hard to guess. Those products are vermiculite attic insulation and popcorn textured ceilings. While vermiculite is a mineral that is different than asbestos, the problem is that vermiculite mined prior to 1991 came from a mine near Libby, Montana. The mine had a natural deposit of asbestos, which tainted some of the vermiculite with asbestos fibers. While it is not for sure that all of this insulation will have asbestos fibers, it is considered likely that it will. Basically, the EPA suggests that, if you have older vermiculite, leave it alone and do not disturb it. Modern vermiculite, since 1991, comes from three other facilities and is considered to have a low potential for asbestos contamination. Popcorn textured ceilings, installed up into the mid 1980's, might have asbestos fibers present.

If vermiculite insulation or popcorn ceilings are present in the home, to establish whether or not they contain asbestos, one must collect samples and send them off to a lab. Inexpensive lab tests will confirm the presence of any asbestos. For further information on asbestos or asbestos testing, you should visit the EPA website. The site is very helpful and has a number of guidelines and suggestions regarding general safety and the use or cleanup of asbestos building materials. Never take a chance on asbestos, a small test can make a huge difference in your health.

This article was prod434uced by the writing team of Eric Badgley & Angee Gardner; specializing in Lynden Real Estate and Bellingham Real Estate, along with Mt. Vernon Home Inspectors. Making sure buyers are protected.

Kitchen Renovation Ideas for a Budget

Kitchens are very personal rooms that get a lot of use it's used at least 3 times every day! Kitchens start to show signs of age very quickly, which causes many people to think that they need to upgrade their kitchen. If you want to remodel your kitchen, then there are a number of things that you must consider. You should consider whether or not you want to replace any of the fixtures in your kitchen. You could also completely change the floor plan in your5B4 kitchen.

Start With The Basic Floor Plan

If you are considering changing the complete look of your kitchen, start out by designing the perfect kitchen floor plan. You need to make sure your appliances are all laid out efficiently so that you can get to them easily. Actually moving the appliances can be very difficult, if you can't handle it then you should consider hiring a professional contractor.

If you want to hire contractors and professionals to renovate your kitchen you can start by visiting kitchenbathdesign.com. This website is amazing as it provides lots of information on the subject of remodeling your kitchen. This website is my favorite because they also discuss current trends, which will make sure that your kitchen is fashionable. You will be able to find lots of information about the latest trends and kitchen appliances on this website.

There are lots of other great websites to look at when considering renovating your kitchen cabinets. One such good one is kitchendesignerideas.com. This site also helps you out with choosing counter tops and work surfaces it also includes information about designing the perfect layout for your kitchen. If you want to find unique ideas then looking on this website could be the best place to look. When you visit this website you also get an option to get a professional consultation.

Are you up for the job?

If you think you're capable of doing the whole job 5B3yourself without having to hire any professional contractors then by all means you can treat this in the same as any other DIY project. You shouldn't be worried about shopping around for ideas for your project. Visiting home improvement stores can give you loads of great ideas about your floor plan. Visiting stores like Home Depot and Lowe's are fantastic places to start, you can also ask staff for their professional opinion. Some of these projects can be very complicated, and so you need all the advice you can get.

Take a look on the internet to track down some of the home hardware stores in your local area. You can also use these websites to work out a rough estimate of the costs involved in your kitchen cabinets upgrade You can view the websites at homedepot.com and lowes.com.

Being very interested in cabinets and countertops, Jack Blacksmith is authoring large numbers of newsletters on this particular topic. You might see his writings on designing kitchen islands at different sources for designing kitchen islands tips.

Copper Weathervanes - A Great Option For Making Your Home Stand Out

You live in the suburbs and the one thing that kind of bums you out about it is that fact that your home looks just like everyone elses. Sure, the uniformed appearance helps with aesthetic appeal of the entire neighborhood, but at the sometime, it can get a little boring. So, if you are searching for a way to make your home stand out from the rest, a beautiful way to do it is with copper weathervanes. They are eye-catching selections that would be an ideal addition to any home.

Copper weathervanes are extremely appealing to the eye because of the beautiful copper that they are crafted from. When purchasing yours, there are two main finishes that you can choose from including polished and antique. The polished finish is one that is very shiny and shows off this materials reddish bronze tone. Now, over time, if you do not apply a lacquer or polyurethane to protect it from the elements, it will weather to a gorgeous verdigris color, which is actually the antique option that was mentioned. If you want yours to have that antique finish right off the bat, you can get ones that are already finished off in that way.

With copper weathervanes, there are many different styles, shapes, sizes, and designs available, which makes it a synch to find something to match where you want to put it and your personality. For example, if you want something for your rooftop and you like things that have a nautical theme, then a great option for you would be one that is in the shape of a schooner or sailboat that is larger in size. Along with being a great choice for the top of your house, this outdoor accessory would also be a nice choice for other spots throughout your space as well. Like you could put one that depicts a peaceful dove in your garden as a nice decorative accent, which would also be a nice addition to any shed back that needs a little sprucing up.

When it comes down to it, there are just a lot copper weathervanes to choose from and some other style available include ones that feature farm animals like chicken, pigs, cows, and roosters, others that have more of a transportation theme like cars, motorcycles, and trains, and you can even get ones that feature garden whimsy scenes including fairies, dragons, and witches. And, those just listed are just some of the options that are available. For a great way to see them all, do not head down to your local garden center or landscape store. Instead, make a b-line for your personal computer and do some online shopping. You can see everything that is available without leaving your home and your selection will even be shipped right to your door. Now, it does not get any easier than that.

So, if you are looking for a way to make your home stand out from everyone elses on your block, a fantastic way to do just that is with beautiful copper weathervanes. One would be a stunning addition to your home and is a great way to break up the monotony in your neighborhood.

Jennifer Akre, a successful business owner of numerous furniture and decor sites, provides the online shopper information on weathervanes and weather vanes. Finish your home in style. You Deserve It - Treat Yourself: copper weathervanes.

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Home Improvement Tips

Whether you are planning to put your home on the market or make it more comfortable to live in, there is a lot to be gained from making home improvements.

Improvements in your home could involve:

- Repairs of already existing structures,
- Remodeling certain parts of the home to give them a facelift,
- Making additions to your home to improve quality of life,
- Home improvement projects in order to make a house more energy efficient or environment-friendly.

To decide on a home improvement project can seem pretty daunting. But armed with a few handy home improvement tips, you could be well on your way to the ideal home of your dreams. Most of these tips are easy to follow and will make deciding on home improvement projects a breeze for you.

- Before deciding on a home improvement project, you have to decide exactly why you think your home needs it, how much you should be spending on it, and what is the result you would be satisfied with.

- The first home improvements you should consider are repair moves. Attend to any ceiling repair problems, the plumbing job you have been putting off or that attic insulation that has become necessary. This holds true whether you are planning to live in the home yourself, put it on rent, or put the home on sale.

- Remodeling your kitchen or bathroom is a smart home improvement move if you are planning to put your home on sale. This increases the value of the home immediately, and if researched properly, can be done with very little investment.

- Home improvement projects that involve remodeling need to be well thought out, so that they do not look out of place in the house. They are usually done to improve lighting, provide more space or glamorize the home. Remodeling a home can also mean an improvement in the atmosphere. For instance, if a kitchen wall is broken down to create an open kitchen, it immediately makes the home more friendly and sociable.

- Making additions to a home like adding a deck, a pool, or an outdoor Storage area are usually the result of what the family needs, but could also be excellent selling points if the home goes up for sale some day. Additions to the home should be considered as home improvement projects if there is extra outdoor space which by itself does not improve the value of the home. A good tip for an improvement in the exterior spaces of the home is also to consider the neighborhood and only make changes and additions that would blend in.

- Helping a home improve its energy efficiency is also a great idea for a householder, because not only does it cut down on the electricity and gas bills, it is a great thing to do for the environment. Improvement in the insulation of the home can be a long-term blessing. Investing on a home so that it at least partially harvests Solar Energy could be another way of improving the home for posterity.

It is obvious that home improvement projects should not be carried out on a whim. It is essential to evaluate why a specific home improvement project is required, and what would be gained from the investment. While home improvements that involve repair increase the comfort in the home and its longevity and are therefore essential, all other sorts of home improvement need to be carefully evaluated before embarking on them.

Get more FREE information written by Joseph Then at his website at Home Improvement Tip Website

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Bathroom Tile Ideas That Will Spark Your Imagination

Bathrooms today are not limited in their tile choices to plain white, square, glazed ceramic tiles as they used to be. Today, there are literally thousands of different styles and sizes of bathroom tile ideas and choices. Ceramic is not the only material, either. Tiles are now readily available in travertine, sandstone, or marble just to name a few.

Tiles also come in a variety of sizes, which when pieced together can create quite a unique look. You can choose to tile the entire wall from floor to ceiling with both the same color and type of tile. Another option is to mix it up and have one color of tile on the bottom of the wall and another color towards the top separated by narrow, textured tile pieces that act as a chair rail.

Not only are there are thousands of different types of tiles, but there are dozens of colors of tile grout. This added versatility means that you could use the same tile on the floor as on the walls, but by changing the color of the grout, you can achieve two completely different effects.

Try to be unique when choosing the color and style of your tile, but remember that if you plan on selling your home in the next few years, you will want to create a room that is universally appealing. Since tile work is considered a more permanent dcor, prospective homebuyers may be overwhelmed with the idea of having to replace an entire bathroom's tile work if you have chosen tiles in your favorite colors of pink and purple.

Another area that you can add some tile work to is the countertop. By adding tile here as well as the walls and floor, you can achieve a room that looks elegant and well put together. Choose tile in complementary colors, but vary the textures and the sizes of the tiles to please the eye and to add different layers.

Tiles make a wonderful choice for bathrooms because they are easily cleaned and sanitized and they are very hard to scratch or chip. If the proper cleaning products are used on them, they will remain shiny and new looking for decades. Try to choose colors and styles of tile that will serve as a great background and tiles that will allow you to change your bathroom dcor without having to replace the tile. Don't be afraid of creating patterns or designs with contrasting colors or even tiles that are subtly different.

Every bathroom is different and will have different tile laying challenges. You can get thousands of bathroom tile ideas from searching through pictures on the Internet or from the countless home improvement books and magazines that are offered. You are sure to be able to find a look that will fit perfectly into your bathroom's dcor.

For more inspiration and ideas for remodeling your bathroom try visiting http://remodelingabathroomguide.com, a popular bathroom remodeling website that includes tips on selecting the best remodeling contractor for your bathroom remodeling job.

Metal Pin Holding Down 2 X 4

From Basement to Beautiful - Steps to Waterproofing and Finishing your Basement

The Monster in the Basement

Picture this: Your upstairs floor leaks whenever it rains. Water is dripping in and pooling on the floor. Even when it's not raining, it always seems to be damp, humid, and musty up there. Everything you store there grows mold, and if you've laid wood floor and carpet, it's growing moldy, rotting, and the wood is buckling. The windows are rusting and jammed, with spider webs growing in them, and the floor is cold and clammy underfoot. The ceiling is sagging and moldy. Simply put: your upstairs is ugly, uncomfortable and unhealthy. You avoid it whenever you can. Under any circumstances, is this acceptable? Of course not!

Then why would you let these conditions develop DOWNstairs?

You shouldn't. It's unacceptable. A basement represents an entire floor's worth of space- a gigantic percentage of the potential living space in your home. To allow it to go unused is to deny the full potential of your home. And given the current housing market, this is a fantastic time to think about taking full advantage of every bit of space available in your home.

Make the Most of What You've Got!

Finishing your basement runs at about 50% of the cost of adding a new addition to your home. Remodeling Online reports that nationwide, finishi5B4ng a basement can increase the resale value of a home by about 61%-97% of the cost of the installation! If you'd like to see the full report by Remodeling online. stop by http://costvalue.remodelingmagazine.com/index.html .

All numbers aside, if your basement is leaking, you have an opportunity to take a problem in your home and change it into an asset. Here are some disadvantages to a damp basement:

1. If you have cement or block basement walls or floors, water collecting around your foundation in the looser backfilled earth is seeping through your porous cement basement structure. Even if your basement walls do not look damp, you can be sure that the moisture is seeping through and being pulled up by the air, much like the dirt in a potted plant does when the soil is wet but the surface is dry.

2. Humid basement air creates a reliable environment for mold growth. If you allow that moisture to remain, there's nothing stopping mold from collecting on any and all organic surfaces in your basement, including drywall, carpet, and hardwood floors.

3. If your basement has a musty smell, that would be from the airborne fecal material from dust mites and mold spores in your basement air. Because this air travels upwards in your house (like in a chimney), these airborne materials will rise through your house and enter your lungs when you breathe. This has been known to create and intensify a variety of breathin5B4g related ailments.

4. A leaking basement is not a reliable storage space. Any valuables you have there will be vulnerable to the flooding conditions.

A Beautiful Living Space

If you want to use your basement as a clean, dry area instead not using it and keeping it as a moldy, wet and health-compromising space, then you have no reason to invest in it. However, this is what your basement could become:

• A beautiful family room with couches, game tables and a TV
• A naturally quiet and secluded-feeling home office
• A home theater with a flat screen mounted on a hardboard wall
• A personal gym with mats, weights and treadmills
• A safe, secluded play room for the children
• A beautiful and sophisticated wine cellar

To accomplish this, you're going to want basement finishing and remodeling products that can create a vapor barrier between your living space and the cold, wet basement surfaces. On the walls, I'd recommend a solid, free-standing cement board and hard foam insulation so you can attach shelves, pictures, a plasma TV or anything else to their surface without concern. Your windows should be double paned vinyl windows for optimal insulation and soundproofing. On the ceiling, you're going to want a drop ceiling that will absorb noise from the basement and above floors alike. The floors should be laid down in a way that b5B4locks water vapor from the basement floor and creates a thermal break on your basement floors so they don't feel as cold as the concrete below. Finally, ALL surfaces installed in the basement will need to be resilient to water damage.

Even if a basement is completely waterproofed and a vapor barrier is placed on all surfaces, your basement is still susceptible to leaks from water heaters, bursting pipes, overflowing sinks, bathtubs, toilets, dishwashers, refrigerators, washing machines, and the countless other things that hold water and can run downhill, creating a flood in your basement.

The Best Basement Waterproofing Contractor and Basement Remodeling Experts for You

It's important to find a basement remodeling contractor that is still going to be in business if you need to service your installation or have warranty work done. The small business administration reports that 50% of contractors have their business fail within the first year and over 96% within five years. It's best to pick a company that you're confident will still be there when you need them.

DryGuys Basement Systems of New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland have been in business for more than 20 years and would like to help you with your basement waterproofing and finishing- as well as your foundation repair, dehumidif5B4ication, and crawlspace encapsulation needs. Our basement waterproofing system will keep your basement from leaking while our finishing products create vapor barriers on all concrete basement surfaces. Our Total Basement Finishing basement finishing ideas insulate the room and make the whole house more energy efficient.

Our finished basement wall panels can each hold a weight of up to 300 pounds, making them perfect for mounting heavy shelving, plasma TVs, large pictures or whatever your heart desires. Our windows are made of vinyl framing and beautiful crystal clear double thermopane glass, making them more than twice as long-lasting and almost three times better as an insulator than single paned steel basement windows. None of our products support mold growth, and they're all either water resistant or completely waterproof. We offer a written warranty, a long history of business, and the international support of Basement Systems, the largest network of basement waterproofing contractors in the world. There's no doubt that we'll be here if you need us. Call or visit us for a free no obligation estimate, and we'd be happy to answer any questions you have.

DryGuys Basement Systems
20 N. Main Street
Woodstown, NJ 08098
(800) 462-3191
http://www.dryguys.com

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