Sauna Bathing Or Steam Bathing?

Sauna is the Finnish word for "bath". Finns who immigrated to the United States centuries ago brought with them a unique bathing custom, which is now only beginning to become popular here. Often confused with a steam bath, a true sauna bath is very different, even though both types of baths offer the same therapeutic benefits.

The temperatures in a traditional sauna can actually approach 200 degrees Fahrenheit! The extremely low humidity present in the sauna makes these temperatures tolerable. Properly designed, the sauna's relative humidity rarely exceeds 2% or 3% when operated in the "dry" mode. This permits the copious amount of perspiration produced by the body to dry quickly thus having a cooling effect.

All Scandinavian style saunas have a radiant air heater, which has a container of stones. These stones retain and radiate heat more consistently, which is why the Tylo electric sauna heaters have such a deep stone compartment. The stones can also be sprinkled with water to produce the wet sauna. This creates bursts of steam (called loyly by the Finns), which disappear quickly into the porous soft wood of the sauna. Humidity then climbs from a few percent to 10-15%. This instantly intensifies the sauna's heat as if the temperature had increased drastically (although it may even have dropped slightly).

In contrast, a steam bath makes use of a steam generator. This device heats water directly, not air. The steam room enclosure fills completely with condensed vapor. Clouds of steam envelope the bather. The humidity exceeds 100% and the temperatures are much lower than those of the sauna. Because of their very different modes of operation, the choice of construction materials is critical. A totally non-porous material such as tile, glass, or plastic is the choice for a steam room.

Previously, a homeowner desiring a steam room needed to frame and tile an enclosure and then fit it with a steam door. While this resulted in a beautiful installation, both the labor and materials made this method quite costly. Now, modern plastic technology has made the easy to install enclosure available. It has drastically reduced the cost of installing a steam room in your bathroom or exercise room. The Tylo Steam room enclosures are easier to install and more efficient than their framed counterparts by virtue of their design.

Although the steam room enclosure must be non-porous, the opposite is true of a sauna room. A sauna must be constructed of porous materials (meaning some type of wood), and it often actually employs air circulation through intake and outlet vents. Many varieties of wood are acceptable for sauna construction, but care must be taken when selecting the type and grade.

Whether it's dry heat or clouds of steam, the choice is yours and it is only a matter of taste and lifestyle.

Art Glick - art@almostheaven.net
Almost Heaven Group LLC - http://www.almostheaven.net
304-645-2310

Organize Your Way Out of the House

You see all sorts of wonderful organizing ideas for kid's play rooms or nifty gadgets to help you organize the kitchen, but what about wonderful solutions to get you out of the house with your sanity, your hair, and all of the things you need? Have you ever thought about the mental checklist you do before you actual leave the house in the morning?

Keys - Check

Phone - Check

Purse - Got it

Kids - Yep

Backpacks - Sure enough

With a final holler at the kids, "Do you have your homework and lunches?" you are running out the door to start your day. Most of the time it works like magic, except when it comes to going grocery shopping and you forget your list, stopping by the dry cleaners totally vacates your brain, and you still have not remembered to grab the blender from last Christmas to take it back to the store.

Sure, having nifty organizing systems for your linen closet is loads of fun, but how about the organizing system for your errands? Not only is this just as important, this solution can actually save or give you money back! Now THAT is a great organizational system.

Let's go ahead and start by finding the perfect staging area. When I say staging area, I mean we need to find a location in your house that you pass by every time you go to get into the car. Do you leave your house through the garage, laundry room, front door, or side door? Whatever door you leave from should be the designated staging area or the base of operations.

What sort of things do you currently leave the house with?

1. Keys
2. Phone
3. Purse
4. Dry cleaning
5. Grocery list
6. Returns
7. Mail

How much room do you currently have at your disposal to use for our base of operations? This includes wall space, floor area, shelving, etc. we can utilize.

Keeping those three items in mind, let's figure out some simple solutions to help you get out of the house quickly with everything you need.

My family and I leave the house from the front door, but we do not have anything close to resembling an entry way. Instead we have a little hall way that either opens into the living room or the dining room. Not the most inviting entry into a home, but my husband did have this skinny tall table that he made in Shop class in high school. We re-stained the table and placed in up against the wall in front of the door. I have a cute little pail we use to put our keys in, another matching pail to place our incoming mail and yet another one for the outgoing mail. Underneath the table, I leave my purse along with any returns I need to take back. This includes things I need to drop off to my family and friends. I do keep my dry cleaning bag in my bedroom, but when it's time to take it to the cleaners I drop it on the floor, under the table and next to my purse. I can't forget the bag even if I wanted to, since it is right next to my purse! The best part about this system is you can use it anywhere in your home as long as you have room to put a thin table up against the wall.

However, sometimes you don't even have that much space to spare, especially if you come in from the garage through the laundry room. One of my clients had such a problem in her laundry room. She barely had room to open the door so putting a long skinny table was definitely out of the question. Instead, we found a very tall bathroom shelving unit. The shelving unit is about 6 feet tall with little shelves and a very pretty white decorative wood. On the lower shelves, she placed her returns. On the hand height shelves, she used two baskets on two shelves; one for incoming mail and the other for outgoing mail. She loved the idea of having a charging station for everyone's phones, so we created one of our own. We drilled some holes in the back of the shelf, brought up an extension strip and created a cute little charging station for 3 cell phones, 2 iPods, and 2 Bluetooth ear pieces. Since we essentially ran out of shelf space, we drilled a few more holes into the side of the unit and placed some cute little hooks for keys and a heavy duty hook for her purse and umbrellas.

In both cases, we put everything we needed in one place so we didn't have to worry about forgetting to grab the dry cleaning, yet again! There was no need to hunt around the house for our lost purse and if there was something in the bucket that said Out Going Mail whoever was leaving the house would see it! Whether would actually TAKE it to the mailbox was another thing, but still!

So think about what you need, where the logical place to set up shop is, and how much space you require and create a little space of organizational perfection in your house!

Happy Organizing!

Suzanne McLoone

Let's Talk Organizing

For over 20 years, Suzanne has been helping corporations and small businesses organize their time so they can spend more time and energy doing the things that are most important to them. With a philosophy of "life is too short", she thrives on making the most of her time and trying to encourage those around her to do the same.

As an organizational consultant, public speaker, and former radio talk show host; Suzanne has been offering her Organizational Quick Tips to anyone and everyone who will stand still and listen for "30-seconds". http://www.letstalkorganizing.blogspot.com

Special Needs Bathrooms

For most of United Kingdom's history, bathrooms were designed and built to simply be functional and they were built the same way. This was not an issue for the majority of the United Kingdom's population, but for people with special needs, the "standard" in bathroom designs and fixtures proved difficult and frustrating. The truth is that people who have special needs often have a difficult time in bathrooms that have been built for people who do not have special needs.

Bathroom designers and builders understand that people with special needs have different requirements than those who do not. They design bathrooms specifically for people with special needs. These designers understand that people with special needs require bathroom fixtures that can hold a person's body weight. They understand that things need to be higher or lower and more accommodating than bathrooms that are built form before function.

Usually a bathroom that is constructed for a client with special needs will feature a stand alone sink, a toilet that has a wider seat and is either higher than usual or lower than usual (depending on the client's needs) to accommodate people who are shorter or people who have trouble bending or people who need to transfer from a wheel chair to the toilet (or another fixture).

A bathroom built for a special needs person will usually feature a shower stall with a seat that is separately contained. If there is a bath tub, the bath tub is usually equipped with jets and is raised up off of the floor to accommodate the transfer from a standing position to a sitting position or from a chair into the bath tub itself.

Lastly, the bathroom that has been constructed for a person with special needs will be built with additional support beams and bars located around and throughout the bathroom. These bars are usually bolted to the walls around the individual bathroom features. These bars are built to aid in the transfer of the person with special needs from one location to another. The bars are usually installed next to the toilet, the sinks and the bathtub and shower areas. These bars are sturdy and are meant to hold a person's entire body weight.

It is important to remember, when putting together a bathroom for someone with special needs that function is more important than form. The bathroom needs to have proper support for a person who has trouble getting from one place to another and for people who might not be very good at holding him or herself up. Softer corners are always a good idea for special needs people as are bathroom elements have been designed to hold a person's body weight.

When designing a bathroom for a person with special needs a good rule of thumb for the designer is to follow is "function before form."

Tal Potishman, editor of Heating Central, writes articles about efficient heating, plumbers, Dartford boiler, underfloor heating and solar thermal. He specializes in helping save money by advising on efficient heating.

Ceramic Tile Over Linoleum

Ceramic tile installation over many materials will work just fine. But will ceramic tile over linoleum work? That's a good question and the answer is ... it depends!

Probably the most important step in a successful tile installation project is preparing the backing - the surface over which the tile will be installed. Save time and money by properly preparing the backing so that's it's solid and of the right material. Backings must be flat, solid, smooth and clean. Install tile over a springy surface and you'll have a failure. Any movement will produce cracking of the grout and maybe even cracked tiles.

You can install tile over many surfaces including linoleum or vinyl. Tile is also installed often over old tile, plywood, brick, wall board and cement board. As long as the surface is flat, solid, smooth and clean you can use it as a backer. Now the surface may require proper preparation and the proper adhesive. Your tile supplier can help with these decisions.

Ceramic tile over vinyl works if the backing is smooth, clean and tightly in place. Any movement of the flooring will likely crack the grout. Certain types of vinyl flooring are cushioned so that they will flex. These floors will not work because of the movement. A cushioned floor should be covered with plywood or cement board. You could also remove the flooring and eliminate that layer.

Be careful when removing old resilient flooring. Until 1986, many floors contained asbestos, which is a health hazard if fibers are released into the air. The only way to know whether this flooring contains asbestos is to have it tested. The best way is to just assume older floors contain asbestos. Don't sand the floor. Usually the best approach is to tile over the floor. If the floor is loose, just cover it with exterior plywood.

Installing ceramic tile over linoleum will work great with the proper preparation and adhesives. Once you have the right base, installation is just like any other base. It's often the best way to cover older resilient floors.

Puzzled about how to install tile? Visit our site for more tips on ceramic tile installation.

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

Granite, Quartz, and Stone Countertops

Have you been cooking on the same boring Formica countertops for 20 years? Are you considering putting your house on the market? Is your kitchen drab and tired-looking? If you're ready to give your kitchen a new lease on life, consider installing stone countertops. The renovations are relatively minor-quick and hassle-free-and the results are fabulous. You'll be amazed at how different your kitchen looks by simply switching to granite or quartz countertops!

The truth is that laminate countertops are a thing of the past. In the last decade or so, stone countertops have shifted from a luxury item available to the elite few to the industry standard. Laminate simply looks dowdy and old-fashioned when compared with the sleek, satiny look of stone. Having stone countertops installed in your kitchen is a great way to bring your home up to date and into the 21st century.

You may be surprised to learn that stone countertops are available in a wide variety of price ranges. You'll pay a premium for specialty natural stone like exotic marbles, but more common natural countertop materials such as granite and soapstone are less expensive. Also, consider that materials like quartz counters can easily last the lifetime of your house; even though such stone countertops are more expensive than laminate would be, they're a better value since they never need to be replaced!

And, speaking of value, investing in quality solid-surface countertops is a fantastic way to add value to your home. Regardless of whether you're planning to sell your house in the short term, stone countertops are an enduring investment in your home. Especially if you're planning to enjoy your home for years to come, now is the best time to install granite countertops; you'll have plenty of time to benefit from your attractive, functional stone counters before you eventually sell the house. And when you do sell, the purchase price will invariably be higher than if your kitchen had worn Formica counters. In fact, because the appearance of your kitchen is usually the single room that makes or breaks a sale, stone countertops may be the difference between selling your home or not.

With all of the great reasons to install stone counters in your kitchen, there's no point in waiting! Visit your local stone counter showroom to see samples and talk to knowledgeable sales staff about the various benefits provided by different types of stone. Regardless of what type of stone counter you select, you will be adding beauty, durability, and class to your home.

Matt Gallo is a home improvement hobbyist and the Internet marketing manager for Prospect Genius, a leading online provider of local advertising solutions.

Illuminated Bathroom Mirrors - Choosing the Best For Your Home

If the wide range of illuminated bathroom mirrors in the market is confusing the hell out of you, then we can help you. Given below are some reasons why people all over the world love light up mirrors. You can also read some tips on choosing the right kind of restroom mirrors for your homes in this article.

Benefits Of Illuminated Mirrors

The first reason why most people buy these mirrors is because these mirrors are extremely easy to use.

The mirror light can be lit when you are in a hurry and need to put on some makeup or even when you need to shave. This light acts as an activity light just like a reading lamp does for your study table.

The bathroom mirror light lets you enjoy some soft lighting while you take a relaxing shower. This way you needn't use harsh overhead lights.

It provides dedicated light to the restroom mirror besides providing some ambient lighting for the entire bathroom.

Lastly, these mirrors add style to the entire room.

Now that you are aware why these mirrors are such a hit, let us go on a understand how to choose the right kind of mirror.

How To Choose The Mirror?

Be very sure of the shape and the size of the mirror. It should blend with the style and the color scheme of your restroom

Ensure that your lavatory wall is spacious enough to carry the kind of bathroom wall mirrors you select. For example: if you go for a wall mirror that comes with a cabinet, it shouldn't look too large on the wall.

The wiring too has to be taken care of. So if you are choosing illuminated lavatory mirrors with integrated lighting then have them installed properly.

You can order your restroom mirror online, as well. Manufacturers guarantee safe delivery and you are able to select from a much wider range of illuminated bathroom mirrors, this way.

Visit CORE online to get free access to more information on buying illuminated bathroom mirrors.

Home Improvement Contractor - Is He Qualified

I am a general contractor in the state of Michigan. In other words I fix, build, or remodel anything pertaining to residential homes. The purpose of this article is to inform home owners about a growing problem in the construction/remodeling industry. That problem is the increasing numbers of unqualified individuals that are entering the field.

Due to the struggling economy and recent lay offs, many conversations around the kitchen table go something like this: What are we going to do now Jane? Well John, you helped my brother roof his house that one time and you fixed the door on our shed and you like working around the house...why dont you put an ad in the paper as a roofer or a carpenter? Hey Jane, thats a great idea. I can get business by offering a really low price. Yea, that's what Ill do!

Now I feel for a guy that is out of work. I really do. But when an unqualified individual decides "hey I'll be a contractor", all to often this results in nothing but trouble for the customer. What happens if John falls off the roof or drops his hammer on the hood of your brand new car? Is he insured?

What about warranties? If he says I will guarantee this roof wont leak for 5 years, and then it does, will he still be in business? Statistics say no. As a matter of fact, most of the people entering into business today will not be in business 1 year from now, much less 5 years from now.

Of course there is the most important question: does he know what hes doing? Does the fact that John helped his brother roof a house make him a qualified roofer?

There are insurance considerations as well. For example, lets say a home owner hires an individual that is not licensed to install a new furnace in his home. If the furnace starts a fire and burns the house down, some insurance companies will deny the claim. The reason is since there is no record of a permit(which there would not be as an unlicensed individual can not obtain a permit) they assume that the furnace could have been installed incorrectly. Now a home owner is left with a huge loss and all because they wanted to save a few bucks on the installation.

Do yourself a favor and stick with a pro. If you conduct a proper contractor interview, then you know that you are going to get a quality job by a licensed and insured individual who offers a warranty..and honors it. If you are not sure how to conduct a proper contractor interview, you can find information on this and other subjects at my web site.

My name is R. Paul Phillips. I am a co owner of Tanner-Phillips Properties, which is a new construction/remodeling business in Lansing, Mi. I have a free home improvement information website located at http://www.greater-lansing-home-improvement.com While my site is tailored for the Lansing area, the majority of the information is useful to anyone interested in home improvement tips, product reviews, how to screen contractors......etc. I also have a contact page so you can ask questions specific to your project.

The Perfect Shower Curtain is Finally Here

Bath time is often the one time when we can relax and get some quality 'me' time. Running a bath, lighting some candles and indulging in our favourite beauty products can be blissful as long as the setting is just right.

While you are in the bath you have time to survey the scene, check out the upholstery and your damp radar goes into overdrive. This is why the shower curtain, and the towels and all of the fixtures and fittings need to be just right.

For many of us our home is our castle. Finding the perfect thing for every area of your home can become a lifelong battle as we all want home to look just right. When it comes to bathrooms there is very little choice online and this was part of the reason that Balineum Bathroom specialists launched an array of fabric shower curtains, liners and rings as well as luxury towels, launched her own range on an online bathroom boutique.

When Australian born founder of the company Sarah Watson could not find all of the bathroom items she required in the UK she decided to turn her hand to a spot of designing herself and created an original line of shower curtains which include fabric shower curtains and liners as well as a range of luxury towels.

Luxury towels are a feel good must for those wanting to achieve the ultimate bath experience. For the best towels you want tasteful colours, high absorbency as well as the ultimate feel good factor of super softness.

Another factor for a luxury towel is the size. A small towel never feels as indulgent as a large one which will wrap you up in its luxury softness and make you feel superbly indulged.

Generally, a shower curtain will last you for a long time and making the right choice about your chosen design can really set your bathroom at a superior standard. Many highstreet stores where you can buy shower curtains tend to stock fun themed shower curtains which can often be tasteless.

Coco W has written numerous books on the subject of luxury goods in the modern age & her reviews of luxury bathroom products are famous in the industry. With an interest in this field Coco writes numerous articles about bathrooms from the best luxury bath towel to the perfect shower rail.

Remodeling Costs: How Do I Pay For It?

To keep remodeling costs under control, there are four key remodeling cost drivers: The design of the remodel, the materials you use, who manages the project, and how you pay for it.

Lets review common ways to pay for your remodel and the pros and cons of each.

1. Loan against retirement account (e.g. 401k)

Pros: You pay yourself the interest on a loan against your 401k.

Cons: You lose the interest you could be making if it was invested. If you lose your job, most loans require you to pay the loan back immediately, and there can be significant income tax consequences.

2. Home Equity Loan

Pros: Usually tax deductible. Lump sum is paid to you at the start so you have flexibility of what you do with the money.

Cons: A second loan to manage. Shorter term than a standard mortgage. Requires that you have sufficient equity in your home. You have to pay interest on the entire loan amount even though you may not need the money to pay for remodeling right away.

3. Home Equity Line of Credit

Pros: You only borrow the money you need at the time, so finance charges are lower at the beginning.

Cons: A second loan to manage. Shorter term than a standard mortgage. Requires that you have sufficient equity in your home.

4. Construction Loan

Pros: Good for larger remodel projects and if you don't have enough home equity to qualify for a loan to cover construction costs.

Cons: Higher interest rate than home equity loans. Not tax deductible. Usually short term until construction is complete and then is replaced with a new first mortgage, which may have processing fees or closing costs.

5. Loan from the contractor

Pros: Available to most homeowners.

Cons: High interest rates. Not the best terms. Can lock you into working with a specific contractor. Not recommended.

6. Refinance and cash out

Pros: You only have a single loan for your home. Usually tax deductible interest. A single larger loan will usually have the lowest interest rate.

Cons: Requires that you have sufficient equity in your home. You have to pay interest on the entire loan amount even though you may not need the money to pay for remodeling right away. May have significant closing costs.

7. Credit Cards

Pros: Most homeowners have this as an alternative.

Cons: High interest rate, not tax deductible.

8. Your savings

Pros: The least expensive way to pay for your remodel.

Cons: Make sure you don't use all of your savings. Always have some available for emergencies.

For free expert advice on the best way to pay for a remodel based on your specific situation simply complete the form at http://www.remodelormove.com/forms/goapply.cfm. Or you can visit http://www.remodelestimates.com to find out how much a remodel project may cost.

About the Author
Dan Fritschen, founder of www.remodelormove.com, a homeowner advocacy organization, speaker at Home and Garden shows Nationwide, author of the award winning, best selling book Remodel or Move? and The Complete Remodeling Workbook and Organizer (available at www.remodelingorganizer.com) has recently been interviewed on CNN, in Better Homes and Garden Magazine and in Newsweek.

Do you have remodeling or moving questions? Email Dan directly at dan@remodelormove.com.

Copyright 2005 ABCD Publishing LLC

How to Replace your Broken Oven Element

The oven element in your electric range can burn out at any time. Unfortunately it always seems to happen at the most inopportune times, such as the week before Christmas or Thanksgiving.

Most elements do give warnings before burning out. They will often have a bright spot that will be noticed by the homeowner, just prior to burning out. If your element has a bright spot replace it as soon as possible. Waiting for the element to burn out is inadvisable because the oven thermostat or other electric components can be affected.

In all aspects of this job safety must come first. Use only the manufacturers original parts, not a cheaper substitute. Only attempt this repair when you have enough time, and patience, to do it properly. Remember, you will be dealing with 240 volts - thats twice as much power as flows through your regular household circuits. Only attempt this repair with another adult present.

If you feel confident in your ability to safely replace an oven element then try the following method:

1 Disconnect range from electrical power, either by unplugging or turning off breakers. Pull range away from wall so all sides can be accessed.

2 Remove rear panel of range to expose the element wiring. Identify which element you suspect being burnt out.

3 Carefully remove the element wiring. They are usually screwed on connections. Avoid breaking the connections or stripping the screw head with your screwdriver.

4 Go to the front of the range. Locate the screws securing the element within the oven cavity. This may require a flashlight because they are usually covered in debris. Again use caution not to harm the screw heads. The screws may be very tight and will require patience to remove without harming. If the screws will not turn they will have to be drilled out using a high-speed drill. If this becomes necessary use caution not to chip the oven interior.

5 Remove the oven element. If its broken avoid touching the pieces with your bare hands. The pieces can be very sharp. Plus, the white powdered insulation contains harmful chemicals.

6 Proceed to a parts store to obtain a replacement. Make certain you have your make, model, and serial number. Manufacturers use a vast variety of elements. Each model, type, configuration, and wattage requirements will determine which element was installed in your range.

7 Install the new element and secure it with the screws. If the holes in the mounting plate dont align you will have to drill holes in the cabinet interior. Carefully drill holes in the cabinet using a high-speed drill. Use caution not to let drill slip to avoid damaging or chipping the interior liner.

8 From the rear of the range reconnect the element wiring. Dont bent the electrical connections or allow the screws to strip the threads. If the wiring is burnt the insulation must be cut back to expose undamaged wire. Cut the insulation back using a knife or wire-stripping tool.

9 With the new element installed plug the range back into the electricity. Start the oven and allow to run for five minutes. Disconnect the electricity and quickly feel the wiring insulation at the element connections. They should feel slightly warm, but not hot. A hot connection indicates a poor connection, or the possible failure of other components associated with the oven. If hot, it will be necessary to remove it and redo. Once satisfied with connections replace the rear panel and reinstall into counter.

10 Test the oven operation. All elements should go off and on as per normal.

11 Final step is to do a test run of the oven temperature. If you have an oven thermometer allow the oven to cycle off three or four times at a regular baking temperature. The thermometer should indicate same temperature at which the oven dial is set. As a confirmation bake something such as muffins or cookies as your test substance.

As the preceding has shown, replacing a burnt element is not a difficult repair. But, it is certainly one that should only be attempted by someone who is confident around electricity. If you are uncertain about your ability around high voltage, telephone an appliance repairperson for help.

An appliance repairperson can have your element replaced, tested, and operating in less than an hour. Less time than it will take you to find the part. Also, they will have all the tools and testers required to do the job quickly and safely.

Copyright 2006 Donald Grummett. All rights reserved. Need answers about repairs and maintenance of Household Appliances? With 35 years experience Donald Grummett can help. Visit http://www.mgservices.ca to learn much more invaluable information.

Tips on Housebreaking Your Puppy

You have just brought the newest member of your family home, which is a cute adorable puppy, and now the fun begins. Now you are the loving caretaker of this tiny puppy and part of your responsibilities is to make sure your puppy becomes housebroken. You may think that this will be a long-drawn out process but actually itmay notbe hard as you think.

You should always have your new puppy seen by a veterinarian before you set up your housebreaking schedule. They can guide you on when your type of breed of dog needs to be fed and how many times a day. They will also be able to tell you if your pup is healthy and ready to be housebroken.

The most important thing is to establish is a routine. A routine will reduce the amount of accidents and will also let you and your pup knows when it's time to go outside.There is a general rule that says: for every month a puppy is old, it can wait one hour to go outside. This means that if your puppy is three months old, he should be able to wait three hours before having to go outside. That is only a generalguideline thoughand all puppies are different. For the first couple of days you should try to take him or her out every two hours. If you set up a regular schedule and follow some of the tips described below; your new puppy will be housebroken in no time. Watch for the signs that your pup needs to go outside and relieve themselves. Observe the puppy's behavior and actions and soon you will be able to tell when they need to go to the bathroom. Some of the signs to watch for are: the pup is sniffing at the door, turning in circles while sniffing, and scratching, standing or barking at the door. These are all signs that they are looking for a place to do their business.

You should always take your new puppy outside the first thing in the morning before anything else and it should also be the last thing you do before you retire to bed. Most young puppies are not able to go all night without having to go to the bathroom. While they are in the toilet training process you should have a small room or area which they can sleep and be contained when you are not there or at night when you are asleep. Make sure that it is a place that you can clean up easily, such as a tiled bathroom floor. You can lay down newspaper or purchase special puppy pads which are absorbent. Never scold or hit your puppy when they have an accident. When they go outside and relieve themselves make sure you praise them and tell them what a good puppy they are. You should also try to remember never to leave your pup unattended in the house or outside. If the pup can't be under your watchful eyes they should be contained in their designated room or penned up in an outside area.

Any place in your home that your pup has messed in needs to be thoroughly cleaned. You should use something that will take away the odour. Dogs and puppies will usually mess again in an area if they can smell the lingering odour of their last accident. Try to set up a regular feeding schedule and take away any food or water about two hours before putting themto bedfor the night. This will decrease accidents and make it easier for the pup to last through the night. Always take the pup outside after they have finished eating.

Another way that people have found to train their puppy to be housebroken is to use a method called "crate training". To use this method you would put your pup in a dog crate or dog kennel which is especially made for animals. You would put the pup in their crate at night and when you were going to be away for a short period of time. Most dogs won't mess in the area where they sleep and the crate gives them the feeling of being in a small cave or home. Using a crate is a good way to help your new pup to become housebroken. Dogs and puppies usually like crates because it gives them a special place to be alone and feel secure.

Remember to have some patience and understanding. The newest member of your family is just learning all the rules and wants to please you more than anything. If you set up a routine and a regular feeding time everything will run smoother and the pup will understand and quickly become housebroken. Soon all the extra time and effort used to help your pup become housebroken will pay off and you will have many years ahead of you to enjoy their company.

It is always a good thing to look into buying dog insurance for your new puppy. This will help you be prepared in case your pet does develop a disease or has an unexpected accident. Pet insurance can give you peace of mind and also help pay for unexpected veterinarian bills.

So please visit us to see how we can help protect your pet - you can buy online easily too at Pet Insurance by Animal Friends or simply call our friendly staff if you prefer on 0844 55 70 300; the policies won't cost you more and you won't be disappointed!

Cloudy Pool Water - Causes & Cures

Cloudy pool water is caused by many factors. These factors may be chemical (water balance, pH, improper methods), mechanical (pool filter system) or environmental (source water, excessive rain, heavy use). Often times, pool owners attempt to treat the symptoms but not the cause of the cloudy water, so we have to look at all of the things that may contribute to the problem. Let's look at the causes of cloudy swimming pool water, then we can look at treatments and cures.

Before we dive in let's first put cloudy water to the test. Cloudy pool water is in the eyes of the beholder. Cloudy can mean: Dull - the pool water just doesn't sparkle. Hazy - it just isn't as clear as it normally is. Cloudy - you can make out the bottom of the pool if you look hard. Opaque - the term says it all!

Chemical Reasons

Many pool owners quickly blame "bad chemicals" so let's start there. Here are some of the factors and their contribution to the cloudy water problem. Water chemistry can contribute to cloudy or hazy water - if the pH is HIGH (over 7.8) and or the Total Alkalinity (TA) is HIGH (over 200 ppm) and or the Calcium Hardness (CH) is HIGH (over 400 ppm). With pH & TA being high the water will become dull or flat and the chlorine reacts more slowly loses its ability to kill and control bacteria and algae. Now you have early algae growth - another cause of cloudy pool water. High CH doesn't become a problem until the water warms up to over 85 degrees F; then you have a "cloudy" condition that won't go away. Maintain good pool water balance with these parameters: pH - 7.2 - 7.6 (all pools); Total Alkalinity - 80 - 120 ppm (concrete) or 120 - 150 ppm (vinyl liner); Calcium Hardness 200 - 300 ppm (concrete) or 175 - 250 ppm (vinyl).

Other chemical or chemistry based reasons for cloudy pool water would be lack of regular shocking, periodic chemical cleaning of the filter, poorly maintained sanitizer levels, lack of a chemical maintenance routine. Regular weekly or biweekly shocking of the pool aids in oxidizing un-filterable swimmer waste such as body oils, lotions, urine, hair gel, perspiration, etc. We find that the single biggest mistake customers make in their normal care is not shocking the pool often enough or insufficiently (not using the proper amount of pool shock). Proper shocking also helps to "rejuvenate" the chlorine level and knock out early algae growth. Whenever you have a pool party with lots of expected bathers, consider shocking the pool the day before (helps build up the chlorine level providing a buffer for an eventual chlorine demand) as well as immediately following the party (shocks & oxidizes everything that was brought into the pool during the party -- if your guests weren't using the bathroom, the beer & soda had to go somewhere). Using a calcium hypochlorite shock such as BioGuard Burn Out Extreme is preferred since the product will get in, do its work, then get out. Potassium monopersulfate shocks like Oxysheen work well to help break up chloramines (combined chlorines), but shouldn't be used exclusively.

Mechanical Reasons

If the chemistry is good and the pool is being properly shocked and algaecide added every 1 to 2 weeks, then it is necessary to look at the mechanical reasons. The mechanical components contributing to cloudy pool water would be improper filter size (too small), improper pump and motor size (too small or too large a horsepower pump), insufficient filtering time, poor circulation, improper maintenance (vacuuming & brushing). I can recount story after story when I've walked into a customer's backyard to help them troubleshoot a problem pool only to find the filter shut off or improperly connected. When simple corrections are made, the pool water is clear in as little as 24 hours. Let's examine some basics.

Your swimming pool's filtering system should be operating a minimum of 8 to 10 hours per day, every day from opening to closing. If the pool water becomes cloudy or other problems become evident, then constant running of the filter until the problem is solved is required. If the filter was properly sized (even slightly bigger is better) then 8 to 10 hours daily is good. On the other hand, too large of a pump may be "harmful" to the filtration. If the horsepower is too great, you may be blowing dirt and everything else you want filtered right through the filter (especially sand filters). When it comes to 2 speed pumps, make sure the "high" speed run time is set for a minimum of 6 hours daily PLUS and additional 12 to 18 hours at "low" speed).

Consider using an automatic pool cleaner. You'll end up with better circulation, cleaner pool surfaces and less work.

The other mechanical reasons are also important. Regular vacuuming and brushing help with the overall circulation by moving water around. Keep directional "eyeballs" pointed DOWN to force filtered water down to the bottom of the pool and therefore aid in water movement by breaking up dead spots. Too frequent backwashing of the filter doesn't give the filter media enough time to do its best cleaning -- a dirty filter filters a finer particle. One final mechanical reason for cloudy pool water, lack of use. Actively used pools are always better circulated and filtered. So even if the water is cloudy (as long as the water is in good chemical balance), use the pool!

Environmental Reasons

Remember that whatever is out in the world, will eventually get in the pool and detract from water clarity. Pollen, dust, dirt, leaves, make-up water, bird droppings (forgot about those, right?), rain, local construction sites, etc. can all affect your swimming pool. Each of these culprits needs to treated differently. Pollen, dust and other fine particulate can be treated using a water clarifier like BioGuard Polysheen Blue. Flocculants work well in severe situations by settling the particles to pool bottom and vacuuming it all out on Waste. Use a skimmer sock inside of the skimmer to remove fine pollen or dust that may be too fine for your sand filter.

Leaves, swimmers, makeup water, droppings will create a chlorine demand. Shocking the pool is necessary. Make-up water can change the water chemistry affecting the pH, TA and CH not to mention the possible addition of heavy metals, all of which can cause or add to water cloudiness.

Final Notes

As you can see there's no 1 or 2 reasons for cloudy pool water. It's usually a combination of factors. Some of them not even coming from the pool itself. The best solution to cloudy pool water is prevention utilizing a good, regular chemical and cleaning maintenance program. About 30 to 60 minutes per week is all that it takes. If or when your pool water turns cloudy, don't start adding clarifiers or flocs. Get down to the real cause. Look at all of the contributing factors.

http://www.parpools.com
http://www.parpools.com/Page/PoolCare/BioGuard_Solutions.html
http://www.parpools.com/Page/PoolCare/BioGuard_water_balance.html

Let's Start With the Bathroom

There are several house redecoration thoughts out there that you may use. It suggests that you be conscious of these renovation ideas if possible, prior to going forward with any house renewal yourself. This will assist you to be better informed and up-to-date and not end up owning a mess that will cost you several thousand dollars more than you budgeted for when you call in the professionals to clean up after you. You will have a healthier idea in terms of where to start.

Bathroom
Let's start with the bathroom. The preponderance of homeowners want to do home renewals in their washroom. They should recognize how to get off the ground. The first step is to examine the existing state of affairs in your washroom and decide how badly off it is. In addition, you should also decide how much cash you think you will have to spend on the project to make a difference.

You will also want to be more specific when determining the kind of outcome you are looking for from doing these particular home restorations. For example if you think that, your washroom is too little maybe you might wish to take out an adjacent wall so that you can enlarge the space.

Maybe it is only the shade of the washroom that you are concerned in altering or the kind of faucet. Make sure that you in fact put some consideration in here, and that you do not come to any conclusion until after you have thought it through.

Bedroom
When it comes to home renewal ideas for the bedroom, you can actually have a lot more enjoyment. This is not a room most people get to see, when they come to visit. You may actually go all out and do what ever you like.

You do however want to have at least some sort of a theme, and the greatest thought is to settle on a color, and make a decision on a shade. Make a decision on one that you will take pleasure in and that will not bore you or will not disappoint you in a couple months. If you previously have an irresistible theme that matches up, your work will be less demanding.

In spite of whatever type of home renewal you are undertaking, you really want to make certain that you are going to get it completed correctly. To do this you ought to speak to a professional. Discuss with them what you are preparation is, what you plan to do and ask them to give you some advice. This way you can be certain that you are on the right path and that you are moving ahead concerning things, in fact before you spend any money.

The collaborator Linden Walhard is really passionate about themes related to wall mount faucet. From his publications on best kitchen faucet and wall mount kitchen faucets the columnist demonstrated his depth of understanding on the topic.

Dealing With Condensation

Last winter I had a major problem with condensation which was especially prominent under the bay window in the living room and the built in wardrobes in the front bedroom. I spent some time researching the causes of condensation and found that ventilation is key. The built in wardrobes were especially bad because they were located on a North facing external wall. They were also full of clothes and the when the doors were closed there was no ventilation.

Last winter I stripped the wallpaper in the built in wardrobes because it was covered in black mould and smelt musty. I bleached the walls and painted them with an anti-condensation paint. This did get rid of the smell but the walls were so cold that the anti-condensation paint didn't make any difference. When the warm air in the bedroom hit the cold wall within the wardrobe there was no stopping the water vapour from appearing.

Last week I thought to myself - "I need to do something about this condensation before winter arrives". Not knowing what the solution was I took a trip to B&Q and had a look around for anything that might have helped and there it was - 'Warmaline wall lining', basically a roll of polystyrene that you use just like wallpaper which provides an amazing insulation from the coldness of the wall. I added three layers in all just to ensure that it worked and to my amazement the walls have been consistantly warm. Not only does Warmaline insulate the wardrobe it also stops your clothes getting cold which in turn stops and damp and mould growth on the clothes.

http://victorianproperty.blogspot.com

Optimize DIY Projects - Tips That Elevate DIY to an Art

While some people go into DIY blindly, without any concern for the right kinds of preparation and the right kinds of tools, many choose to listen to the experts.

Experts such as Tommy Walsh (Collins DIY) and Kelly Hoppen (Posh and Becks) all encourage DIY enthusiasts to research, prepare well and find the best ways to do things first.

Surviving DIY

Sometimes it is all a matter of survival. DIY projects, such as replacing floorboards and installing sash windows are not easy. Therefore, some recommendations are in place to make your life easier as a DIY weekend warrior.

Sanding

Sanding should be done with the right kind of sandpaper or sander, and the sanding should be done along the grain. This means you have to find the direction of the cambium and sand that way.

If you sand across the grain, you will end up with a coarse texture that you will have redo to smoothen. DIY enthusiasts know that if you have to repeat something, you did it wrong the first time. Time is gold. Remember, you do not want to be stressed out even before you finish the DIY project.

Another use for butter is...

It is not true that nothing beats WD40 or monkey grease when it comes to reducing friction. Nevertheless, creaking doors, creaking windows and creaking gates can all be remedied with butter.

Use butter that had already melted, and apply liberally around the creaking joints. The butter should have as little water content, and should have high fat content. Avoid overly salted butter as these could react with metal or with wood.

On the use of wood

If you want to install a new gate, new fences and build new shelves for your home, get the woods cut at the merchant. Some people like to saw their planks of wood themselves.

While it is fine if you have an electric saw, it's a waste of time if you are doing it manually. Cutting is almost always free at merchants, so make your measurements before you buy and have your wood pieces cut before you bring them home.

Want a bigger room?

If you want a room to look bigger than it really is, but you do not need extra space, do not knock down the walls yet. You heard us right; do not get that sledgehammer yet.

One very simple way to make a room look bigger than it really is, is hanging a mirror. Try it for yourself and you will instantly see what we mean.

Scrape the scraper

Replacing old wallpapers can be tricky business. Not only have the adhesives dried completely into the wood or concrete, but often, the wallpaper just won't give up.

Some people resort to violence- with a scraper. Unfortunately, scrapers have the tendency to damage the surface below the wallpaper. Paint, wood and concrete come along with the old wallpaper.

In cold countries such as the United Kingdom, depleted walls are never good things. What is the solution? Hire a steamer machine and use it to tear the wallpaper naturally from the wall.

This article was brought to you by Springfields Army Stores, a leading supplier of camping equipment in the UK

Bathroom Remodel Investment When Selling - Bathroom Remodeling

When you're planning any bathroom remodel, consider the costs of the bathroom remodeling versus the return on the actual investment. According to one of the popular remodeling magazines, the average bathroom remodel throughout the country cost around $16,000.

If you were to sell your house within a few years, you could recoup around $12,000 of your original investment. This would translate into a $4000 loss to your pocketbook eventually.

Using these numbers for your bathroom remodel investment, you would recoup around 75% of your original investment. If you know anything about investing money, this will not be a good rate of return and if you keep investing your money like this, you won't have any to invest, eventually.

Keep this in mind, if you're going to be selling the home within a few years. If the bathroom isn't in good shape and you're not planning on selling soon, you could remodel the bathroom and enjoy it for quite a few years. You wouldn't be looking at this as an investment but as maintenance costs.

If you need to remodel the bathroom, because it's getting a little run down and will create a problem when selling a home, I would suggest minor remodeling, if the toilet, fixtures and bathtub is in good condition, I would suggest changing the sink, cabinet, bathtub surround, flooring and some new paint.

If you're remodeling cost is now at $8,000, you would recoup at least $6,000 and would only lose $2000 on your original investment. Now this still doesn't make any sense, if you're still losing money, why would you even want to remodel the bathroom. Why not sell the home as it is and not lose any money? This is a tough decision to make and keep in mind, these are average costs.

You could recoup less or more than 75% of your bathroom investment costs.

Most real estate professionals will advise you to remodel the bathroom for two reasons, for one the house will sell for a few more dollars, and this will increase their sales commission. The second one is probably the most important for any one selling a home, the home could sell faster.

If you have the time and are in no hurry to sell the home, I would suggest trying to sell the home as is first and then sprucing it up, if you can't sell it within three months.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He has just finished a Home Buyers Guide to take some of the frustration out of home shopping.

If your looking for some more House Remodeling Pictures or home building ideas.

Uncover The Truth About A Hunter Air Purifier

The homes we live in now days are so air tight, that they can actually be harmful to our health. Since they are such an enclosed area, we end up breathing the same air over and over again. A hunter air purifier can help bring fresh air into the home. They can help filter the air of unwanted particles that are floating in the air. Most people don't even think about what they are breathing, especially in their own home, because after all, that's your own safe place. Why would we be thinking of it as an unsafe place to breathe in. This article will uncover the truth about a hunter air purifier and the benefits of using an air purifier in your home.

Most women like to think that they keep a pretty clean home. They may spend hours vacuuming, dusting, mopping, and scouring only to find a few hours later that the end tables are dusty again. What's up with that. A hunter air purifier can help get rid of the dust that already has begun being stirred up. An air purifier is designed to draw the dust into it's filtering system. It then releases the filtered air back into the room so you will have cleaner, fresher air to breathe. Most vacuums release a certain amount of dust as you are vacuuming because, even though you are cleaning up debris on the floor, dust is also being stirred up, and you can even see it floating in the air at times. A hunter air purifier will help trap the dust that is found floating about.

If you suffer from allergies, then you know that dust, dust mites, pollen, mold spores, pet dander and tobacco smoke can very easily stir up an allergy attack. A hunter air purifier will help trap any of these things and leave them in the filtering system. The air purifier will then blow back into the room the new clean air. I'm sure you can see the benefits of using an air purifier in your home. There are many sizes and styles to choose from and a hunter air purifier can be placed in any room of the home. An air purifier for the home is usually a portable unit that just plugs in to any outlet. A little research can help you decide what you are looking for on a hunter air purifier. Don't hold your breath on this, because if you are one of the many asthma sufferers, every day of breathing bad air can be devastating to your health.

For more information on Air Cleaners and Purifiers for your home or business try visiting air-cleaners-and-purifiers, a website that specializes in providing helpful tips, advice and Air Cleaners and Purifiers resources to include Hunter Air Purifier and more.

Bathroom Remodeling - Tips For Hiring a Professional Decorator

One of the challenging things to do when you're redecorating your bathroom is to find and hire a competent professional who is capable of not only giving you a beautiful bathroom, but also making the space function properly; and all at a reasonable cost to you. Sometimes all you need is a few quick tips or basic guidelines to follow when you're hiring a remodeling professional or decorator.

Even if your remodeling job is as simple as replacing old fixtures with new ones, you still want to work with a contractor who is familiar with important building codes otherwise you could wind up having to tear down all the work you paid for and start all over again. The contractors should also know the plumbing, wiring and structural aspects of the project to make sure you wind up with a professional finish.

There's a number of options for you to choose from to help you in selecting the best professional for your bathroom remodelling project. You may need to hire an architect, interior designer and a building/remodeling contractor - depending on the size and how complex the actual job is. Put some thought into this process before you start borrowing money.

With homeowners scaling back on remodeling projects because of the weak global economy, be careful not to sign with a contractor who is more hungry for your cash than he is interested in doing a great job that will bring repeat business. Word of mouth and thoroughly checking their references should help you find the right decorator or builder for the job you have in mind.

Keeping an eye on your cash is one thing but an even more important aspect of your project is health and safety. If you have guys onsite who aren't sure what they're doing with wiring, plumbing or gas supplies it could have lethal consequences for somebody in your home or for one of the contractors themselves. Don't cut corners on this stuff - the safety of your family could be at stake.

It's so, so important that you hire licensed and insured professionals to complete your remodelling project. Qualified and quality contractors are far more likely to finish the job in a timely and tidy manner than some cowboys you hired for one third of the normal rates. The contractors should apply for the proper permits and follow code from A-Z with no bending of the rules. If your home is inspected by building code officials who determine the work was not completed properly, this will only lead to stress, frustration and additional costs for you. In serious cases you might have to tear all the work back down.

The contractor should apply for the permit in his or her name, not yours. Make sure that you get this in writing before any work begins. This holds the contractor, and not you, responsible for all work that is to be completed. Further, you and the contractor should cooperate with each inspection at each stage of the remodeling project to make sure nothing is missed and everyone knows what's being done.

If you decide to act as your own contractor for your bathroom remodelling project, make sure you research and know everything that is involved; put in a lot of study time for your own sake. Familiarize yourself with the building codes and legal language to ensure that your subcontractors are following the rules and you're not getting duped.

You will have to rely on the expertise of your subcontractors to complete the work, but ultimately, you will be responsible for ensuring that they act with integrity and within your budget. So, make sure you are working with people you can trust; there's nothing worse than having to look over peoples shoulders to make sure they're doing the job properly.

You will also want to become familiar with applying for building permits and how to plan for inspections. This is important for you to know whether or not a job is going in the right direction or not.

Redecorating a bathroom can be daunting. Where do you start? What materials and accessories? If you're looking for more bathroom redecorating ideas then click over to http://www.bathroomcentral.com.

Bathroom Backsplash Tile

Backsplash tiles help you to give a unique and exclusive look to your bathroom. It is the tile that helps you to decorate your bathroom. These tiles can also be used to decorate your bathrooms. You will find various types of backsplash tile. You will find many colors and sizes in backsplash tile. You can use stone as the back ground color for your bathroom. These stones would help you to give a new and unique look to your bathroom. You will get various types of designs in backsplash tiles You can also use these tiles as the border of your bathroom.

There is geological connection between the stone and glass. As glass is the factor which is made from sand and sand made of stone. So, there is a connection between stone and glass. Manufactures try to combine these natural beauty and they try to make glass from these natural products.

You will also find these backsplash tiles in the form of the marble. You will find these marbles in various designs and shapes. You will also find different colors in these tiles These materials are available at a reasonable rate. These tiles can help you to save your money.

Stone and glass can help you to make beautiful tiles for your decoration. There a tile called fused tile which is made in the high temperature. Day by day these fuse tiles are becoming popular. You can find various kinds of colors in these tiles These tiles can be fired at different temperatures. You can use different methods to make these unique tiles These tiles would give a different look to your bathroom. These tiles can be used in the bathroom as well as in bathroom. These tiles are easily available in the market. The cost of this material is cheap as compare to other types of materials. These tiles can absorb high temperature. You can use different and unique methods to make these tiles.

You would find different varieties in backsplash tile. You would not find same designs in these types of tiles Each tile has a unique feature. These tiles can be considered to be the best tile for renovating your bathroom and bathroom. You would not have any difficulty in finding the best tile for your bathroom and kitchen. You can use tiles to make wonderful designs for your bathroom and kitchen. But if you want to make beautiful designs from these tiles then you have to use your imaginative power. Your imagination would help you to make best designs for your house. These are the only tiles which would help you to fulfill your dreams. It would help you to design the best bathroom. The design of the bathroom should be unique because this is the smallest area of the house. Bathroom is considered to be the reflection of your personality. Thus you should use unique features to design your bathroom. You should design your bathroom with the tiles that have unique features.

Mike X Smith is a leading writer and businessman in the field of bathroom backsplash tile. Check out the new line of backsplash tiles bathroom! Many colors to choose from!

6 Steps to Get Rid of Ants in Your House

For most homeowners, ants can represent a serious problem. While there are many commercial products out there that promise to help you get rid of them, there are more naturals ways that are cheaper and healthier. Follows these steps and ants will vanish.

1. Locate the place where the ants are entering the house. You can do this if you follow their trails.
2. Buy Diatomaceous earth at your local hardware store and apply it to the holes or cracks where the ants enter. If you have trouble finding it, get baby powder as some contain this material. Check back regularly and if they're still there, apply some more. Ants will not get close to this place, because they almost immediately die if they touch it.
3. You can get rid of the remaining ants by spraying baby powder mixed with water on them. Make sure you sweep the floor after you do this.
4. For a more animal friendly way of getting rid of ants, try to spray them with a peppermint essential oil / water mix. You can also soak a long piece of string in peppers or cinnamon and put it around your home.
5. Consider planting mint plants along your house. Not only it's useful for other things and gives a nice smell, but it t will keep the ants out forever.
6. Keep your house clean. If you do your dishes regularly, mop the floor and wipe the kitchen tables every day, there won't be any reason for ants to enter, as they're looking for leftover foods and sugar.

Jay Banks has been an accomplished realtor in Vancouver BC for several years. For more information and other great tips, visit his website http://www.jaybanks.ca

Your Royal Stairway - How to Achieve One

More often than not, most items found in your home serve primarily the purpose of decoration. Take your vases, paintings, and carvings, among others, as examples. However, some items serve for particular functions but may also serve as a decoration. Take your crystal chandelier (it is primarily to give light to your home but also serves as dcor to your ceilings) and your antique mirror for instance.

One thing that is not actually furniture which can be both useful and decorative in function is the stairway. Oftentimes, they serve as pathways from one level of our house to the next. Obviously, this is really a great help in houses with two or more floors. There are also houses which opt to put a stairway's platform in direct vision of a person entering the house from a front door. It gives out this appealing impression. Given this, it is therefore necessary that a stairway is not only sturdy and secure (for purposes of safety) but also must demonstrate "grandiosity" in its own right. Usually, this is attributed to the entire design of the stairway, but can also be tracked down to the specific stair parts, too. You have to remember that even the smallest detail, in this case part, can affect the totality of a whole structure to function and serve its purpose. This goes the same for the stairway and its stair parts.

A stairway may be built in different fashions. It can be helical, straight, or sectioned with a balcony. These final structures usually depend more or less on the materials used for the stair parts. Colossal mansions and castles usually have marble staircases of regal grace and elegance. Suburban homes have staircases of wood. For high buildings and skyscrapers, they have cemented or stone-made staircases. There are also some which have more than two or more materials mixed.

Some stair parts may be made of wood, while the others with cement or steel or other materials. For example, the steps are made of cement, the balusters from steel and the handrail from wood. However, when a staircase is made of marble, it is almost always the only material used for its stair parts, too. Oftentimes, the color of these stairways is usually the same with the rest of the house. This is because a stairway is a part of the entirety of the structure of the house.

There are various designs and materials of stair parts which when combined properly may produce a great look for the stairways. The general consideration is on the structure of your home. Also, consideration is also given to your budget to achieve the one which you like and is fit for your home. Most construction stores and depots offer various stair parts with affordable and reasonable prices.

Stairways, just like any general structures, rely greatly on their stair parts to achieve the final look to be visually stimulating to your guests and visitors and also for its solidity. Be certain that you only get what is best for your stairway to produce the effect of a royal pathway, to the next floor that is.

For more information about Stair Parts feel free to visit http://www.elegantstairsandwoodfloors.com

Eliza Maledevic Ayson writes for Jump2top.com - SEO Company

The Grand Hotel Des Bains

Venice is a city with many great hotels and it is difficult for the tourist to select the best or the nicest one. With Hotel Des Bains, you can't go wrong. Located along the beach of Venice Lido, this five star hotel can best be described as beautiful. To get to the hotel, it takes a delightful 15 minutes boat ride from the Marco polo airport. Another 15 minutes and you are right in the heart of the city of Venice - St Mark's square.

The hotel has 191 full suites, each fully furnished with both modern and traditional Italian dcor. Each room has all the usual daily living amenities and is tastefully decorated. From the rooms, the view of the lagoon at night is simply spectacular. The surroundings of the Hotel des Bains offer a peaceful setting where one can relax in pure Italian style and elegance. For those who want to remain active, there is tennis, sailing, wind surfing and swimming.

The hotel is not far from the Lido Shopping center, the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco. All round this area, one can view the ancient Italian architecture. For those who love cappuccinos and like to see people, just sit outside one of the many cafes in the area. After a long day in town, come back to the hotel and go for a swim in the large garden size pool where you can have a snack or drink some wine.

Those individuals who are on business or those who want to plan something more exciting like a wedding need not fear, Hotel Des Bains has a fully staffed conference hall with all the necessary furniture and equipment.

Everyone who goes to Italy dines on Italian food but almost every type of international cuisine is available here. At the Pagoda, one can sit outdoors, relax, watch the sunset and eat some of the best home made Italian pizzas around. The hotel does have a bar service and also a lounge where one can have cocktails and snacks throughout the day.

For the tourist who wants to keep away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Venice and also want grand opulence, there is nothing better than Hotel De Bains. Not only is the food great, but the service is unbeatable.

Veraz is a blogger and freelance writer who writes travel articles for various travel sites and blogs. After travelling extensively in Italy, she began her own site on Venice luxury hotels

Find out more about luxury hotels Venice Italy at her own site. A great reference tool for those who love to travel in luxury.

Making a Cost Plan For a Sunroom

According to National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) price of sunroom ranges from $12,000 - $70,000. NARI estimates that the sunrooms can save up to 70% of the investment cost. The cost that is incurred in the construction of a sunroom includes the material cost and the labor cost. It has been projected that on average the material of a sunroom may cost up to $10,400. Constructing the deck, may require approximately $1500 of material. For the construction of the stairs the estimate material cost can be near to $270 figure. Construction of roofing system, floor improvements and all other material costs for the construction of an average sunroom can be very near to $13,500 - $14,000.

The second main aspect that should be considered while chalking out the cost of sunroom is the labor cost. For the construction of an average sunroom the labor charges can exceed $11,000 figure. For the construction of the deck, the labor cost is estimated to be around $1650. Likewise, construction of the stairs may cost from $200 to $250.

If we merge these costs with the flooring, roofing system and the total labor cost which is not less than $12,000 we can get a big figure of around $25,000. So it is obvious that only the construction of an entire sunroom can cost up to $25000. It is commonly seen that the sunroom prices can vary because of the material used in the construction work.

Many people like the aluminum work for their sunrooms and it is also widely accepted material for sunrooms construction because it makes the sunroom very beautiful. But on the other side many people also use wooden material in the construction of the sunrooms which may reduce the beauty of the sunroom as compared to the aluminum work. An aluminum sunroom can be constructed with energy proficient exterior and interior with panes that are thermally broken. A sunroom with wooden panels can also be constructed with beams that can give your sunroom a classic touch. Sunrooms that are covered with vinyl shell are commonly used in the building of the Victorian and Georgian Art schools.

The type of fixture that is used in the sunroom can increase its total cost. The types of windows and doors that are planned to be fitted are the main factors that may increase the costs. Sliding doors with dual locking system can also be fitted that are widely used because of childproof handles. The style of the sunroom also plays an important role in increasing the cost or reducing it. There are various roof designs that are introduced for sunrooms; include cathedral, straight, curved and conservatory. The roofs of sunrooms are normally made-up of aluminum with a coating that helps in restricting the injurious ultra violet rays of the sun from entering in the room. Aluminum costs are surely more than vinyl but vinyl provides more insulation that does the aluminum. If you are building a wooden sunroom then keep in mind that it can cost very much to you because it requires the proper maintenance and care. Make sure to build a budget for this project before you select designs for your sunroom.

Andrew Caxton is a freelance writer. Learn more about sunroom addition and patio enclosures at http://www.allsunrooms.com/enclosures.html

Bathroom Renovation Luxury Cabinets Rediscover Luxury in Your Bathroom

An article in BusinessWeek.com confirmed a drastic shift occurring in the home renovation market. The trend in renovation is shifting towards bathroom remodels. More and more people want style, beauty and luxury in their bathrooms. Control your environment. Get tips on how to better organize your home.

Is there a need for a cabinet?

Most people do need a cabinet as they find it comfortable to store towels, personal products and other bathroom essentials. It is also easy to access and makes life easier. However, few families do not prefer to store items in cabinets. Depending on the budget and the need a bathroom renovation luxury cabinets can be considered.

Express your style

If you are installing high end fixtures along with a luxury tub and shower wall during bathroom renovation, luxury cabinets should also be included in the plan. This would increase the ambience of your bathroom and match the levels of other fixtures in your bathroom. There are several types and styles of luxury cabinets that are available in the market. You will be amazed at the styles and colors of luxury cabinet that are available in the market these days. Take your pick and see how it fits your bathroom.

Budget Planning

Create a budget and design the bathroom renovation plans based on your budget. Have an eye for product costs and spend wisely on what you really want.

Plan your space

A luxury cabinet as a part of bathroom renovation needs lots of planning. You have to follow these simple steps to select the cabinet based on your bathroom specifications.

1.Measurement: Measure the dimensions of your bathroom perfectly.

2.Layout: Sketch your bathroom layout, including where your cabinets, tub, sinks and other fixtures will be and chart out the dimensions in terms of length, width and depth.

3.Design and revise your bathroom renovation plan until you are satisfied.

Selection

Based on the dimension of your bathroom, select the luxury cabinet as well countertops and sinks to make an impressive difference in the appearance of the bathroom. The cabinets should fit into the overall statement the homeowner is trying to make in the room. Check out for colors and patterns and try to match the color scheme of your bathroom. Choose from a wide range of products and designs to make your bathroom a heaven at home.

If you're looking for more information about bathroom renovation or are looking for bathroom remodeling ideas come visit me at my bathroom remodeling blog.

You will find lots of information about bathroom tile design, shower and tub installation, bathroom remodeling tools, bathroom renovation ideas, bathroom remodeling pictures and even specific information about the topic of this article: Bathroom Renovation Luxury Cabinets.

How To Install A Bath Tub Yourself

Installing a bath tub can be a difficult endeavor, but with the appropriate tools and knowledge of what to do it can be successfully completed. It's a good idea to consider other options before deciding to install a new tub. An existing bath tub can be updated and improved by having it re-glazed, or by having a fitted liner created and installed. These options can decrease the cost and length of time involved in replacing a bath tub.

If you've decided that installing a brand new bathtub is the only option, you must carefully research the best method of installation for the tub you choose and your bathroom. If you have the appropriate plumbing and construction knowledge, or know someone who does, the first step is to assemble the necessary tools for the job.

A bath tub installation will require some basic tools that you will most likely already own, such as a hacksaw, drill, hammer, level, nails, screws and tape measure. Other parts and tools may have to be purchased for the job, such as a tube cutter, propane torch, PVC pipes, plastic shims and, of course, your new bath tub. Safety equipment, such as goggles, should always be worn whenever necessary during the project.

When installing a tub to replace an existing unit, the old bath tub needs to be disconnected and removed. It's best to choose a similar size and style of tub, so no additional framing or alteration of original water supply lines needs to be performed.

Using as much assistance as is necessary, place the new bath tub into place and use shims to level it. Support boards should be present under the rim of the tub to help support its weight. After the tub is leveled and is adequately supported, the next focus is to connect the necessary plumbing.

The steps needed to connect the plumbing will depend on what is already present from the previous tub. The drainpipe may have to be cut to fit, so that it connects to the trap, which should be centered below it. Reconnect all of the plumbing fixtures in the same manner as the previous tub was disconnected.

After turning on the water and testing the entire system, it may need to be inspected, depending on building code regulations. After completing any necessary inspections, the final faucets and handles can be connected and the surrounding walls can be refinished and caulked.

Although the process of bathtub installation can be complicated, once you learn how to install a bath tub, you can save a great deal of money by completing the task yourself. If you have the right tools and supplies available, along with some assistance to move the tub, the entire process can be completed in as little as a day.

Visit us for more information on bathroom accessory guide, bathroom accessories and how to install a bath tub

Types of Countertops

When remodeling or building your home, you naturally want it to look as beautiful as possible. You put a lot of thought into every decision. The countertops are no different. You want to make sure you get a beautiful surface that can handle lots of use, and is somewhat affordable. Here are a few options.

Laminate is a popular choice because of its versatility and reasonable price. You can get it in a huge variety of colors, and even choose different finishes and patterns.

Stone, of course, is highly popular. Typically it is more expensive but it is well worth it because of its beauty. Granite is the most durable and the most popular. It looks beautiful and handles stress well. Marble is also used, but it is a softer stone than granite and damages more easily.

Some people use a form of wood for their countertops. It is known as butcher block. This can be beautiful, but keep in mind that wood is a soft material so it is easy to damage. It will also stain more easily if something spills and it will attract more germs.

You can create your own look for your kitchen by using ceramic tiles. These tiles do sometimes chip, but they are easily replaced. It may require a little more maintenance to keep the grout clean, but these can add a touch of personality to the home.

When it is time for you to buy your countertops, take the time to consider those mentioned above. Of course, these aren't the only types of countertops available, but they are some of the more popular. The best thing you can do is to learn what you can about them, price them, and make an informed decision.

Ideal Countertops (http://idealcountertops.com/) does countertops in Charlotte, NC. Billings Farnsworth is a freelance writer.

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Home Improvement Remodeling - Start in the Kitchen Or Bathroom

Modifying a room in your home can be a huge task. Your home improvement remodeling may need lot of planning and your time. You will see that many home improvement remodeling projects may require a considerable amount of monetary resources as well yet hiring a local remodeling contractor can make the planning process hassle free.

Lots of times, just a bit of home improvement remodeling can perk a space up by giving it added color. Even the littlest alterations in an area can provide a big lift both visually and emotionally. Numerous projects can be accomplished on your own with store-bought kits. On the other hand, an area builder has equipment, experience, and relevant suggestions that are highly likely to be much better.

If you want to remodel your home, you should first consider remodeling your bathroom . You can find some photos about bathroom remodeling online for reference. Then you can simply install new faucets and shower accessories to give your bathroom a whole new look. However, if you want to remodel your bathroom effectively, you may want to ask a contractor for advice .

You may possibly change the fashion of a space to any point in history. To mend the temperament of a room is to take a predictable looking one and change it to a contemporary one in some way. Modern style uses a blend of conventional and intermediary objects, which show fine in any room. We are coming to know local contractors that are incredibly well versed in these remodeling techniques.

When you are looking to soften the appearance of a room or an area, consider the large selection of decorations and accessories possessing an antique, warm brushed, or satin tone finish. The hard luster of chrome can be replaced with the soft sheen of brushed nickel. Antique copper is another exquisite, silky metal often available through remodeling contractors for a reasonable price.

Simply painting a room can drastically modify the feel of the room. Remodeling contractors around the country boast of new painting methods still not available to the general public. In order to choose the best color scheme for your room, consider the direction the windows are facing. If the windows face to the south or the west, then cooler colors provide a better lighting effect. If the windows face to the north or the east, then hot colors like orange, yellow and red are the best choices.

When deciding that more than one color should be used for your project, it is recommended that you lean towards the strong color as your main look. You will want the bolder color to be the main theme and then select a more subtle color that will give it added style. You might want to get the advice of a local contractor for advice for your home improvement remodeling job. It can be rewarding.

Your home improvement remodeling can be a diminutive venture that can go a long way. Alterations in fashion can radically change a room. Kits can help homeowners, but nothing replaces a contractor's expertise. The bathroom is a good location to start. Most bathroom remodel projects can be completed in a short time. Changing the hardware is one way. Replacing faucets and shower heads can revolutionize the room's appearance. One technique to change the mood of a room is to paint. A process that contractors are using is if the windows face south or west use cool colors. If the windows face north or east then choose bright warm colors.

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Bangkok Guest Friendly Hotels - Where to Find and Stay

Guest friendly hotels in Bangkok is a label for hotels that do not charge an extra fee for bringing in an unregistered guest into your room to stay overnight. You may have also heard of the label no joiner fee which means the same thing. Hotels that require their guests to pay an extra fee even though the room had been booked for two is an unfair business practice that occurs throughout Bangkok hotels. Non guest friendly hotels usually charge a 500 THB ($14 USD) fee for bringing in unregistered guests. Some places charge as high as 1000 THB ($30 USD).

Fortunately there are many guest friendly hotels in Bangkok. You can find them mainly centered in the popular commercial areas of Sukhumvit Road which is conveniently close to the myriad of nightlife venues and hot spots throughout the area. Here are names of 5 popular guest friendly hotels in Bangkok (as of writing):

1. Ambassador Hotel
2. Citi Chic Boutique Hotel
3. Amari Boulevard Hotel
4. Landmark Bangkok
5. JW Marriott

There are many more guest friendly hotels of course, with hotel rates ranging from 1000 THB up to 6000 THB ($30 USD to $170 USD) per night, which usually includes a buffet breakfast. There are hotels with even lower rates. Some have rates that go as low as 500 THB or $14 USD per night , but I highly suggest that you avoid staying in a hotel with such low rates as it will most likely be unclean and far from the center of nightlife activities in Bangkok.

Another alternative is to book your stay in a serviced apartment in Bangkok. Serviced apartments in Bangkok are either run by hotel or private management. They treat their guest with full hotel hospitality such as daily house keeping, use of facilities like a fitness gym and swimming pool. Most up market rooms may be equipped with a full kitchen and washer dryers. Most even provide a free buffet breakfast included in the room rates just like hotels in Bangkok. It would stand to make sense that serviced apartments do not charge a joiner fee because the room's are technically apartments. However you are personally responsible for your guests.

There are many serviced apartments in Bangkok. The most popular one is called Centre Point. Currently there are 7 Centre Point Hotel properties that are in convenient locations close to main attractions through out Bangkok. They are a fully established serviced apartment, labeled as a hotel, but most of the guest who stay there are vacationers. Personally Centre Point hotels are my favorite places to stay in and I never have to worry about having to pay a joiner fee for my guest.

For a more comprehensive review and list of guest friendly hotels please visit Guest Friendly Hotels in Bangkok for more information. If you would like to know more about Centre Point Serviced Apartments please visit Centre Point Hotels in Bangkok Review for more information on all 7 of their locations.

James P. Hunt is an avid traveler and writer for an underground blog with information about Bangkok, Thailand.

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A Guide to Tap Water Filtration Systems

Ever wondered what type of home water filter is best? When it comes to tap water filtration systems, there are many models and methods to choose from. It's important to realize that most products out there are mediocre so you can shop wisely and carefully. Here are some important factors to consider when you shop around for a home water filter.

When doing your shopping, you are going to come across three types of tap water filtration systems: distillation, reverse osmosis, and carbon filtration. It's important to compare all of these methods while taking cost, effectiveness, efficiency, and convenience into consideration.

When it comes to cost, carbon filtration comes out on top. Carbon filtration costs less than 10 cents per gallon. Comparatively, reverse osmosis costs 18 to 24 cents per gallon and distillation costs 20 to 26 cents per gallon.

As for effectiveness, reverse osmosis and distillation take the backseat because they are not effective in removing both organic and synthetic chemicals and must be used in conjunction with a carbon filter. Of all tap water filtration systems, carbon filters are the most effective because used alone they can remove all types of contaminants.

Carbon tap water filtration systems are also very fast and efficient. They can produce up to 30 gallons per hour and don't waste any water in the process. On the other hand, distillation and reverse osmosis are very slow and produce less than a gallon per hour. Reverse osmosis is also very wasteful; it wastes 2 to 3 gallons of water for every gallon of clean water it produces.

Carbon tap water filtration systems are very convenient. They can be installed easily in a matter of minutes and you can choose from whole house filters, shower head filters, countertop filters, and under-the-sink filters. You can even get a sports water bottle that has a carbon filter built in so you can have clean water anytime, anywhere.

Unlike carbon filtration systems, reverse osmosis and distillation systems are very complicated. They have to be installed by a plumber and are high-maintenance. For example, reverse osmosis systems require a diaphragmed storage tank and adequate water pressure in order to function properly.

Another reason why carbon tap water filtration systems are the best is the fact that they don't remove the beneficial trace minerals from tap water. Trace minerals in tap water such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium are essential to maintaining good health. Reverse osmosis and distillation produce de-mineralized water. Drinking de-mineralized water can lead to multiple mineral deficiencies and even cancer in the long run.

Make no mistake about it. When it comes to tap water filtration systems, carbon block or granular filters are far superior to any other method out there. Carbon filters are affordable, effective, fast, and efficient, and produce healthy water rich in essential minerals. So get out there and get a carbon tap water filter if you want 24/7 access to fresh, clean water, the foundation to good health.

John Lim Cher Sern who is an avid proponent of natural health. To get more information and recommendations on tap water filtration systems visit our website at http://www.cleanhomewaterfilters.com

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Tips to Get the Best From Your Bathroom Remodeling

Many people mistakenly believe that the bathroom is the least important area of the house. Considering that this is the first place you visit after you get up, and probably the last place you go to just before bed, nothing could be farther from the truth. In fact, many people spend many relaxing moments in their bathroom, luxuriating in a bath while listening to soft music or playing with their kids before they go to bed. Therefore, it is only reasonable that many people want to remodel their bathrooms to give it the looks and comfort that the rest of the home provides.

Often, people are totally defeated by the thought of giving this small space a new look. After all, what is there to do? How much can one move the lavatory or the bathtub, and what would be the point anyway? Well, there are many ways you can use mirrors, lighting, free-floating cabinets and light to give this space a large, roomy and extravagant look. In fact, a properly done bathroom remodeling job could leave you open-mouthed! But you needn't call in the experts or pay through your nose for expensive designers before you get the bathroom of your dreams. Just follow the tips below and you could well be showing off your bathroom to your friends and family.

1. If your bathroom is cramped and starved for space, get rid of the tub. Go for a compact shower unit that has gleaming faucets and controls. On the other hand, if you have a large bathroom, make use of geometric designs instead of the conventional tub, and demarcate this area from the rest of your bath space.
2. Ax bare cabinets and vanities. Instead, make use of cabinets that are concealed nicely behind large mirrors. Mirrors increase the illusion of space and give a nice touch to your bathroom.
3. With the wide array of sinks and washing bowls available, it is not too difficult to get sleek designs that are compact as well as stylish. Glass fittings are popular these days.
4. Go for compact fittings. This will increase the illusion of space.
5. Make clever use of lighting to give the bathroom a bigger look. Allow light to pour in through frosted windowpanes. Use cool colors. Vertical stripes add to the feeling of space and height.
6. Get rid of dark fabric that makes the bathroom look dowdy and depressing. Instead, use light fabric in cool colors. Glass block windows should never be covered up, as they are great style statements.
7. Place lights above mirrors. Use stylish light fixtures so that bald tubes do not give off glaring light that hurts the eye. Place lighting fixtures in a way that they are nicely reflected around the bathroom.
8. Lastly, avoid clutter. If the space is small, keep unnecessary things out of it. Functionality should nicely be amalgamated with style so that you get maximum mileage from what you use in the small space.

Bathroom remodeling is not the tough job that it is made out to be. In fact, since you have to think sleek and slim, it is by far the easiest room to remodel and convert.

Bathroom Remodeling - First Choice Stone, specializing in granite countertops, and cabinets for kitchens and bathrooms is dedicated to providing old world quality and craftsmanship with innovative technology.

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What to Look For When Hiring a Building Contractor

When planning to build a custom home it is critical that you hire the right building contractor. If you hire the wrong one, you may end up with a poor quality built home that took many more months and dollars to complete than you budgeted for.

To ensure you hire the right building contractor for your custom home project you should look for several key attributes in your prospective building contractor.

First, a building contractor should have a proven track record of building quality homes. Make sure the building contractor has been in business for several years and can provide you with a list of completed homes. The list of completed homes should include a number of references that you can call and/or visit. Make sure the reference lists includes projects that were done recently as well as ones that were done several years earlier. Call and visit some of the references. While visiting the reference properties examine the quality of construction and ask for feedback on the homeowners experience with the prospective building contractor.

Second, make sure the prospective building contractor has actually built a home similar to your plans. You do not want to hire a building contractor that has only built basic spec homes if you are planning to build a unique custom home. Custom homes typically have complicated floor layouts, complex roofs, and use higher end materials that frequently necessitate training and expertise for proper installation.

Third, look for a building contractor who demonstrates good project management skills and is methodical with his planning and construction. Building a custom home is an expensive endeavor and you want to be absolutely sure that the building contractor can be trusted with your money to build your custom home correctly. If you sense the building contractor is winging it during the proposal/bidding phase, steer away from him. Formal bids on a custom home building project should be well documented. Documents should include a bid proposal with accompanying architectural drawings of the home to be constructed. The bid proposal should clearly state all project costs, as well as a detailed timeline for work to be started and completed. Payment terms and schedules should also be included. The bid should also specify all material types and subcontractors who the building contractor will use.

Finally, make sure the building contractor is financially stable and has the track record and backing of a bank to support your custom home building project. The last thing you want to have happen is to hire a building contractor that goes bankrupt halfway through the building of your home. If the building contractor is planning to use a construction loan, insist on the name of the bank that he is getting the loan from. Check with the bank to make sure the builder is truly planning on using the bank. If the bank is providing him with a construction loan, then you should be reasonably comfortable that the bank has also done a background check on the building contractor.

To learn more about hiring the right building contractor for your custom home building project see HomeAdditionPlus.coms Home Construction Bid Sheets.

Over the past 20+ years Mark Donovan has been involved with building homes and home additions. For more DIY home improvement information visit HomeAdditionPlus.com and his DIY Home Remodeling Weblog