What Bathroom Remodeling Can Do For You and Your Home
By: Illa maden

When we consider a home improvement project, such as bathroom remodeling, we often think in terms of what it will do for us. This is a valid consideration. Investing in a remodeling project can be somewhat costly, and bathrooms are among the home improvement projects which can cost the most.

Much is made of the value that a bathroom remodel can add to your home in terms of it's dollar value. This is an important consideration if you are planning to sell in the near future. But, even if you have no plans to sell at this time, you should keep an eye to dollar value as you are working through a bathroom remodel. Situations change. While you may have no immediate thoughts of relocating now, that could change in the future for one reason or another.

Increasing size of family is one frequent reason for selling a home and moving, and of course, there is also the possibility of your employment creating the need to sell and move elsewhere. So, it is wise to think ahead when you are planning on remodeling your bathroom. For instance, a black bathtub may work for you, but it probably does not have wide appeal and therefore would not add to the appeal of your home when selling to the average home buyer.

One positive aspect to a bathroom remodel is that if it is done well and finished it is one project that usually returns the majority of your investment if you should sell in the future, and it adds a lot of appeal which is important if you want a quick sell. Bathrooms and kitchens are the two rooms that really sell a home in most cases, and they will be the most heavily scrutinized by potential buyers.

But unless you are already in a mindset to sell your home, you will be remodeling your bathroom for the benefit of the members of your household.

What will a bathroom remodel do for you and the members of your household? That should be the immediate concern. If you have thoughts of undertaking a remodel, then obviously there are things that either displease you, don't function properly, or are drastically outdated. The first place to start might be to think of what you don't want then move on to consider what you do want.

A bathroom remodel can be full or partial. It just depends on your needs. If most of your big fixtures are in good condition, look good and function well, then there is no reason to add the expense of replacing them to your list. Toilets and bathtubs are very durable and if cared for will last many years.

Some folks who have the space want to remove their bathtub-shower combination and replace it with separate units. If you have the space and the desire this could add greatly to the functionality and pleasure of use your bathroom will give.

While toilet and bathtubs usually hold up very well and can often be kept, the vanity is one item in a bathroom that will show signs of wear and give your bathroom a dated look. While you are replacing the vanity, think about lighting. If your lighting is inadequate, the time to either update fixtures or improve wiring is during a remodel.

Each bathroom remodeling project is very different, and this is what makes estimating cost so difficult. The size of the bath is a big factor, along with which items you replace, and the quality of the items and materials you select.

You alone will determine the extent and needs for your bathroom remodel. Don't make the mistake, though, of saving a few dollars by trying to salvage an item such as a vanity that really looks sad and worn. The few extra dollars you spend will give the bathroom a renewed and finished look.

And, speaking of finishing, do finish you project in all respects. Make sure all the little details have been attended to when you are finished. Small details like not replacing molding or hardware can mar a remodeling project that would otherwise look very good. Few things will de-value your home more, or feed your ongoing dissatisfaction like a half finished remodeling project.




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Illa gives more bathroom remodeling ideas at her website. You'll also find information on making bathroom remodeling plans .

How To Build a Sauna - Tips For Making It Easy
By: Mike Hirn

Home saunas are becoming a favorite home additions for do-it-yourselfers. There are many reasons for this. Who wouldn't like a way to relax at home and improve your health all at the same time? The tremendous health benefits of using a sauna are a not so well kept secret among sauna lovers.

When researching what is required to build a sauna it quickly becomes obvious that the process is not as difficult as most people believe. There are just a few basic principles that you need to take into account. Beyond that, creativity and flexibility are the name of the game.

Just like any other how-to project it is important to start with a solid plan. When making your plan the two main components that you need to consider are: The structure and the heat source.

When designing the structure, you need to consider the function and unique environment of a sauna. Saunas are a place to relax. Platforms and benches need to be arranged with comfort in mind. The number of people that will be using the structure is important. You want to plan enough space but at the same time a smaller space is the more efficient. It is a bit of a balancing act between large enough for comfort and small enough to be efficient. When in doubt, don't skimp on space.

The heat and steam of saunas are what give you the health benefits. These can also create structural problems that need to be planned for. Insulation for the walls and some sort of vapor barrier should be included in your design. The idea is to keep the moisture and heat inside as effectively as possible. The basic requirement is to hold the climate within a comfortable place. All improvements beyond that are gravy.

The second crucial consideration for you to think about is the heat source. Steam saunas can be heated with gas, wood, or electric heaters. Electric heaters are a favorite choice for indoor saunas because of the convenience and lack of exhaust. For a traditional experience a wood stove is the best choice. Proper venting of wood and gas stoves is something do-it-yourself builders should get expert advice about before starting.

Using Infrared waves for your heat source is a modern alternative to traditional steam saunas. Infrared emitters produce waves that heat the solid objects in a sauna but not the air. One downside is that there is no steam in an Infrared sauna but there is evidence that the waves penetrate deeper into the skin when compare to traditional heat sources. This deeper penetration accelerates and increases the health benefits of a sauna experience. It is hard to beat an Infrared sauna for convenience. Warm-up time is very short and not much clean up is required afterward.

Developing your own custom design and list of materials from scratch is not the only option for homeowners. With our increased understanding of the health benefits of saunas there has been a corresponding increase in interest for this ancient custom. The result has been dramatic progress in the development of home sauna options.

You can now choose from a growing number of prepackaged designs and styles. The great thing is that they can be delivered right to your home and set up in no time at all. You can choose a modular unit that can literally be put together in under an hour or get a sauna kit that requires more assembly but gives you more of that "I did it myself" satisfaction. Almost all kits come with complete written instructions. Many also go beyond written manuals and have video tutorials, making it east to follow their step-by-step instructions.

Getting a home sauna has never been easier or more affordable. Don't you think it's time you started enjoying life to the fullest too?



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Did you know that home saunas can improve your health significantly and at the same time add value to your home? Find out exactly how to easily get your own home sauna and how it will improve your health at www.the-home-sauna-center.com

Aluminum Venetian Blinds - The Right Thing For Your Windows
By: Low Jeremy

Enough of your old window blinds. Make way for the stylish aluminum venetian blinds. If you really want durability in your window coverings, aluminum venetian blinds is the one that will suit it best. Aluminum blinds will give you the special ambiance you always desire. For having aluminum venetian blinds in every room, the kitchen, in the receiving area of your home, you can also color coordinate the blinds in every decoration you want.

Aluminum venetian blinds are manufactured to the fact that people always wanted something that will surely last. In deciding to buy aluminum venetian blinds, you can choose for different types whether you like vertical or mini blinds. Specifically, aluminum venetian blinds look good if you put in a formal dining area.

Although aluminum venetian blinds are more expensive than vinyl blinds, it is much cheaper than wood blinds. If you prefer an aluminum mini blind, you can have it with 1 inch slat or much more with slats 2 to 3 inches wide. If you're shopping for your aluminum venetian blinds, there are lots of colors to choose from as well as to a number of different levels of confidentiality.

If you preferred to reduce the light coming from the outside, then you can have your aluminum venetian blinds that will only allow reduced light to enter while in blocking the glow. Certainly, you can have your styled aluminum blinds that can provide you complete privacy when lowered.

Worrying your aluminum venetian blinds will not fit to some of your specialty cut windows is not a problem anymore. You can now order aluminum blinds to some reputable dealers that will fit your cornered, arched, or even rounded windows. By using the standard cord to lower and raise the aluminum blind, you can opt to have battery operated feature to the blind. In having this kind of wireless feature, installing it is quite easy. Relatively, the motor is silent in operation, yet it's powerful. The 6 channel control can be operated to at least 6 aluminum blinds as long the distance is within 50 feet.

Also, aluminum blinds can offer energy efficiency. Window blinds with this kind of action can resist every heat loss through the window in time of cold seasons. If you like to cover your large window, aluminum blinds with larger slats are recommended. In keeping you preferred color of the aluminum blinds, there are lines that include metallic, solids, and matte, which can result to low gloss finish.

Venetian blinds are thin sheets of any material that are connected together by a string. Mostly of the venetian blinds are made up of hard plastics. There are also versions of venetian blinds that are made up of aluminum or any plastic combinations. Since blinds have very thin blades that shut and open, the strength and durability of the blades is a top priority of the manufacturers. Because of that, they do not simply use materials that do not pass their quality check.

There are two parts in the venetian blinds that are used to open and close it. One is the hanging stick that is being turned to open and close the blades of the blinds and the other one is the excess hanging string that is used to raise or pull the blinds up together. These two have special mechanisms that are placed on the upper portion of the blinds set. Basically, the one that lets the blind close, open and raise is the string that joins it together.

When blinds are always used everyday, the mechanism embodied in it may lower its function. This may be caused by the dust that can form on the small portion where the mechanism is located. When things like this occur you do not repair your venetian blind rather what you are going to do is to simply clean it.

Venetian blinds usually have warranties. The warranty may include miscarriage if delivered or mechanism failure before a certain date covered by the warranty. The very common wreck that may occur in a venetian blind is on the blades. Most of the time, plastic when over-exposed to sun becomes brittle and later on will corrode. That is too difficult to repair since you cannot find any spare to change for several affected blades.

The next common trouble in the venetian blinds is the string failure. Most of the time, because of the tension on the string during lifting, the string after some time might break. You can easily repair this by connecting the broken string together by tying it up or by using a strong adhesive. When the hanging rod does no longer turn smoothly, the problem maybe on the gear on the upper portion of the blinds set. Just simply apply a little of lubricant in it so it will again turn smoothly.

Always make sure that your blind is free of dust. Dust is the number one factor why the gears and other mechanism in your venetian blinds do not function. Make sure that when you repair the blind by yourself you do not void the warranty.



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Low Jeremy maintains blinds.articlekeep.com. This content is provided by Low Jeremy.

By: Amy Nutt

Spring cleaning is, perhaps, one of the most dreaded quests most people embark on each year. It's a time to throw away old, unwanted items, organize those you are planning to use, and give your entire home a thorough cleaning. Because of all it entails, the prospect can be daunting, but there are useful hints you can follow that will make it a little easier to tackle. Below are 15 useful tips that will help you get started.

Begin cleaning from top to bottom. Start by cleaning the ceiling fans and light fixtures, then move on to windows, furniture, and carpets.

Wash your windows both inside and out. Vacuum or wash the draperies or window treatments as well.

Wash blankets, throw rugs, and bed covers. When doing so, try to set aside some time just for this purpose. This will give the task continuity.

Move furniture and vacuum beneath and around it. This can prove to be a tedious task, but you'll be happy you did it.

If your clothing is located all together in one closet, sort the winter clothes from the summer ones. Set aside any clothes you would like to discard or give away. This is the perfect time to do so.

Check all downspouts and clean them accordingly. This is important, as it can reduce the chances of unwanted clogs or other problems from occurring.

Arrange to have your air conditioning system inspected. Spring is the best time to do this, because the hot weather has not yet taken hold. Also check and clean air filters and vents.

Check and replace smoke detector batteries. This should actually be done ever six months, so you might set a schedule to help you remember to do it.

Drain any sediment from your hot water heater. This will help keep it in good working condition.

Before using any cleaning products, carefully read the directions to find out what it can and can't be used with, and how to properly use it. Failure to do so can result in a mess or possible injury in some cases, so this detail should be given the proper attention.

When cleaning vertical surfaces, start from the bottom and work your way up, overlapping as you go. Use a circular motion as you clean. This will help prevent streak marks.

Before using an abrasive cleaning product, be sure it is suitable for the surface you are cleaning. These products are good for removing food particles and other hard-to-remove soils, but misusing them can actually damage the surface. You will find directions on the bottle or can, as well as information about the various surfaces a particular product can and can't clean.

Clean microwave spills as they occur. Otherwise, they may get baked on, which will make them much harder to remove.

Use a small foam paintbrush to clean small spaces between cabinets or under appliances. This will enable you to get to the hard-to-reach areas without leaving dirt particles behind.

Save money on paper towels by using washable, lint-free cloths. They are easy to clean when you are finished, and you will have less trash to empty at the end of your cleaning spree.

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Migson Public Storage, Toronto self storage

By: Shane Hester

The key to moisture control is the control of air transported moisture. This requires an air barrier system or air pressure control that may or may not be combined with an air barrier system.

There is a big difference between air transported moisture and vapor diffusion. Proponents of vapor barrier systems tend to confuse these two transport mechanisms do they control the vapor diffusion part, the air transport part or both? It is not always clear.

What is clear is that air transport is far more significant than vapor diffusion. What is also clear is that you do not need a 6-mil polyethylene barrier to control air transported moisture. Permeability values of materials are irrelevant in air barrier systems. Although 6-mil polyethylene is an excellent vapor barrier it is often a very poor air barrier.

I will agree that it is possible to install 6-mil polyethylene as an air barrier. The key point that needs to be made is that although air barriers are a good idea everywhere, vapor barriers are not.

Moisture flow by vapor diffusion is governed by the second law of thermodynamics (basic physics to some, not so basic to others). Moisture will flow by diffusion because of a concentration gradient as well as a temperature gradient (from "more to less" as well as "from warm to cold").

This means that it tends to go from the inside out up north and from the outside in down south. In the middle of the country part of the year it goes from inside out and part of the year it goes from outside in. It is easy to say lets put a vapor barrier on the inside up north and on the outside down south. It is much harder to define "north" and "south".

Everyone can agree to put a vapor barrier on the inside in Burlington, VT, and on the outside in Miami, FL. It is a little more difficult to agree on where to put a vapor barrier in other locations. If you put a vapor barrier on the inside in Washington, D.C., half of the year it will be in the wrong place.

You certainly do not want to put a vapor barrier on both sides of the wall. It's pretty obvious that you do not want a vapor barrier at all in most assemblies in mixed climates. "Flow-through" design makes more sense in mixed climates where vapor diffusion is slowed down, but not stopped. Hence, the term: vapor retarder.

When moisture storage effects are added, things get real interesting. Take a brick veneer cladding that experiences rain-wetting followed by exposure to solar radiation. The sun tends to drive moisture inward. It makes sense to put a vapor barrier behind a brick veneer to stop this inward flow.

But what happens when you install a vapor barrier behind a brick veneer in a cold climate? Do you also want to install a vapor barrier on the inside? I think that would be a vapor barrier on both sides. Maybe we want a vapor barrier on the outside behind the brick veneer and a vapor retarder on the inside.

Maybe we should use an insulating sheathing that is vapor semi-permeable on the outside with sufficient thermal resistance to elevate the temperature of the condensing surface during the heating season, and have a vapor permeable interior finish to permit drying to the interior? It sounds complicated and it is.

It turns out that the distinction between a vapor barrier and a vapor retarder is a necessity. Let us examine a common building material: kraft-faced fiberglass insulation. Is the kraft facing a vapor barrier or not?

It depends on the time of year. If the facing is installed towards the interior in a climate such as Washington, D.C., it is a vapor barrier in the winter and a vapor retarder in the summer.

How is this so? Well, kraft-facing is impregnated with bitumen and the paper-bitumen composite is hygroscopic. It adsorbs water as the relative humidity it is exposed to rises. As the quantities of adsorbed water increases, the vapor permeability of the composite changes.

This reflected by the differences between dry-cup permeability test values and wet-cup permeability test values. Under dry-cup testing, one side of the material is maintained at 0 percent r.h. and the other side is maintained at 50 percent r.h.

Under wet-cup testing one side of the material is maintained at 50 percent r.h. and the other side is maintained at 100 percent r.h. So under dry-cup testing the kraft facing has a perm rating of 1 perm, and under wet-cup testing the kraft facing has a perm rating of 5 perms.

In the winter months, when the inside relative humidity is high, we have a vapor retarder on the inside, that permits drying to the inside.

It sure would be a dumb idea to replace this kraft facing with a 6-mil polyethylene sheet that would trap water in the wall assembly during the summer.One of the problems in the building industry is that we have a spreading "cult-like" mentality that worships at the "church of polyethylene".

This cult views the answer to all moisture problems as the installation of a polyethylene vapor barrier condom on the inside of buildings. This cult is also responsible for many more building failures than building successes. It's time that the cult deprogramming started.



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Shane Hester has been helping website owners increase profits through exclusive webdesign and marketing services at WebFirstCreations. See his companies latest creation: Carolina Siding Contrators or contact him directly at WebFirstCreations.com.

All You Ever Wanted To Know About Polished Concrete
By: Adrian Adams

Concrete can be polished to a high shine for beautiful flooring which needs no coating or waxing. You can grind new or old concrete floors to a high gloss finish. Polished concrete looks like polished stone and is highly durable. It is decorative, practical and also economical.

Concrete is polished with sanding pads and grinders until it is glossy and smooth. The flooring industry is experiencing demand for polished concrete right now from showrooms to retail facilities to private homes. If kept dry and clean, a polished concrete floor is no more slippery than regular concrete. In fact, it is less slippery than linoleum or polished marble.

Almost any concrete floor can be polished but if it is new, you should wait a month before polishing it. Existing floors might need some cleaning before being polished. A contractor with experience can advise you on what would give your floor the best result.

If the existing surface needs to be solidified and densified, the contractor might apply penetrating hardeners to the concrete. This usually happens after stage one of the grinding process. The hardeners can be used on existing or new floors and react chemically with the concrete to result in a hard crystalline structure. In addition, the hardeners offer extra protection from staining and water penetration and prevent the concrete dusting.

Concrete floors can be dry polished or wet polished. Most are polished with a combination of the two processes. Wet polishing uses water to minimize the dust produced and to cool the diamond abrasives down. Water acts as a lubricant and reduces friction so the polishing abrasives will last longer. Resin bonded disks melt at high temperatures so the wet process can lengthen their life. Wet polishing can produce a lot of mess and slurry. Having to clean this up can make the polishing process longer. With dry polishing, the machines used have inbuilt dust containment systems. The initial grinding, when concrete is being removed using metal-bonded adhesives, is usually done with dry polishing. Wet polishing is normally introduced when the surface is markedly smoother and finer resin-bonded adhesives are used instead. There are now resin-bonded disks available, meaning that the whole process can be done dry.

A polished concrete floor requires dusting occasionally and the luster will last for years. If it does get dull, it can be buffed to restore its high shine.

If you want a high luster, economical floor, which resembles polished stone, polished concrete could be the perfect solution.

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Learn about polished concrete at www.concretepolishing.org/

By: Shane Hester

The primary function of a housewrap or building paper is rain penetration control. It is not air infiltration despite what the manufacturers say. The energy aspects of housewraps are vastly overstated.

They have been embraced by builders for this function as can be evidenced by their market penetration. Yet their critical role in building durability is under appreciated and not marketed. It has been a triumph of marketing over physics.

The problem with building papers in general and housewraps in particular is a loss of water repellency. Contaminants referred to as surfactants ("surface-active contaminants") either raise the surface energy of the housewrap or building paper or lower the surface energy of the water allowing the "wetting" of the housewrap or building paper surface by water.

Once wetting of the housewrap or building paper surface occurs, material pores in the housewrap or building paper become filled allowing transport of liquid phase water across the housewrap or building paper via capillarity or hydrostatic pressure (gravity).

Water soluble extractives in wood such as tannins and wood sugars in redwood and cedar are a type of surfactant that contaminate the surface of housewraps and building papers raising their surface energy.

Detergents and soaps are another type of surfactant that contaminates the surface of water, lowering its surface energy. Both result in the liquid (in this instance "water") being able to "wet" the surface (in this case the building paper or housewrap).

The surface energies of either the liquid or surface or both are altered so that the surface energy of the surface becomes greater than the surface energy of the liquid. Back-priming or back-coating wood clapboards and trim helps to isolate the surfactants in the wood from the housewrap or building paper surface.

Similarly, providing airspace between wood trim and clapboards using furring or some other spacer ("cedar-breather") reduces the quantity and time liquid phase water is trapped in the exterior of the wall assembly thereby reducing the potential of surfactant movement.

Where wood is concerned, both back-priming and airspace are highly recommended. Where stucco is concerned, stucco should never be installed in direct contact with any of the plastic based housewraps.

Stucco can "bond" or adhere to the housewrap surface altering its surface energy thereby allowing housewrap pores to become "wetted" and subsequently establish capillary flow. Another issue with stuccos is many have additives that improve workability and freeze-thaw resistance. These additives are typically surfactants.

A drainage space between stucco and building papers or housewraps is essential to control liquid phase water penetration. Bonding typically does not happen between stucco and building papers.

However, with most stucco applications applied over building papers, insufficient drainage results. It is recommended to use at least two layers of building paper under stucco in order to allow some drainage between the two layers.

Even better is to provide a spacer between the two layers of building paper by using a textured building paper or a building paper with granules or cork adhered to its surface thereby creating a space.

Another analogy that might be useful in understanding some of the concepts involved is one of being inside of a tent during a rainstorm and pushing your finger against the inside of the tent surface creating a leak by both compressing and tensioning the fabric altering its surface energy.

Dirt and dust can also affect housewrap performance. Think of a fabric that is "Scotch Guarded" to be water repellent that subsequently becomes dirty. The fabric must be cleaned to remove the contaminants and retreated to reestablish water repellency. Don't let you housewraps become muddy or dirty.



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Shane Hester has been helping website owners increase profits through exclusive webdesign and marketing services at WebFirstCreations. See his companies latest creation: Pro Siding Contractors or contact him directly at WebFirstCreations.com.

By: Tom Sample

After years of going to work, resting up on the weekends and forgetting about everything that's not a pressing demand, one day you look around. A little or a lot of kitchen remodeling is "suddenly" overdue. From outdated designs to shabby fixtures, it all seems more than a little behind the times.

Where do you start when you decide it's time to improve your kitchen's appearance? Take the time to formulate a plan for a kitchen remodel you'll love for years to come.

VISIT OPEN HOUSES AT FOR SALE HOMES

There's a good chance there are many house owners in your area who want to sell their house in your area. When houses become available for open viewing, participate as much as you can. Many owners remodel their kitchens just prior to offering their house for sale in order to improve its value.

Because they are local to your area, chances are you can easily access the same contractors and materials that completed the kitchen remodeling. If you ask, you might find the owners or real estate agent are happy to provide detailed information.

GO TO SHOWROOMS

Another excellent way to get ideas for your new kitchen is to visit showrooms. Here you can see professionally designed complete kitchens and get more information about materials such as cabinets, flooring and even windows. Showrooms can be an excellent way to become acquainted with all of the various decisions you really have to make about your remodel. You can talk to customer service staff for more information on materials, designs and accessories.

BOOKS AND MAGAZINES

Books and magazines allow you to browse kitchen remodels whenever it is convenient. There are magazines with kitchen remodel special issues or articles, and there are also books and magazines devoted exclusively to kitchen design. If you aren't comfortable paying the high price tag of many of these remodel printed resources, borrow them from your local library. In addition, many magazines will offer a free issue as part of a trial subscription you can promptly cancel without charge.

HOME IMPROVEMENT TRADE SHOWS

These shows are held at least once a year in nearly every medium to large city nationwide. They consist of a massive gathering of leading home improvement materials suppliers and contractors.

It can be considered an expo, but if you take the time to talk to specialists and investigate their products and promotional materials, it can be time well spent. You may have to pay a small entrance fee, but it is a very small price to pay for getting in touch with true professionals who know what they are talking about.

In conclusion, think before you act when it comes to kitchen remodeling. Don't simply call the contractor without having any idea how you want your kitchen to look. As a general rule, contractors are not kitchen designers. They may have helpful suggestions and good ideas, but it is best to have a plan on paper before demolition begins.

If you don't feel you need to hire a designer but lack the skills to create a plan on paper, take advantage of free design services from a professional at a home improvement store. They are often more than happy to provide you with a kitchen design free of charge in the hope of selling you products.




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Take a professional approach to remodeling your kitchen
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How to Design the Kitchen of Your Dreams
By: Tom Sample

Kitchen renovating is a thing that many people forget to do until they realize their kitchen doesn't look so good anymore. That's when they will really start searching for new ideas and they will acknowledge the fact that design trends are very different from what they used to be.

And the truth is that the kitchen is probably the most important location of your home. It's where the food is made, it is also a source of warmth and of family gathering. These are even more reasons to consider kitchen remodeling if the time has come.

Kitchen remodeling ideas can come from a variety of sources like open hose views, open kitchen displays, expos, magazines or web sites. The availability of information is no longer a problem nowadays. The real problem is making a sketch, a design, and what's the most difficult, implementing it.

In general, kitchen renovating is much different in the case of a large kitchen than in the case of a small kitchen. People prefer different designs. Some want space, as much as they can get, while others prefer the intimate, warm and cozy feeling of a small kitchen. Whatever the case may be, there are options available for absolutely every need.

If you have a large kitchen, you will want to fill that bit of extra space with interesting pieces of furniture that will make the kitchen more appealing. Also, think carefully about the size of the items in your kitchen. For example, a tiny coffee table will probably seem out of place in a large kitchen.

Accessories may also be very important in the case of a large kitchen. If you collect things, you can have them displayed in special urns to show them off. Of course, it also depends on the stuff you are collecting. Also, flower vases are recommendable in the case of a large kitchen because they fill space and they look beautiful. Just make sure you don't forget to water them.

Lighting must also match the size of the room. Many people make the mistake of not taking this into consideration. For large kitchens, larger lighting items are needed, like big chandeliers. They need to spread their warmth to every corner of the room.

Small kitchens can be very well redecorated too. In this case, you will have to find smaller pieces of furniture and appliances, which will leave a busy woman space to work in also. If done right, a smaller kitchen can look just as good as a large one, with an extra plus for a cozy feeling.

So don't be hasty when you make a big decision like this. Research, see how your friends and relatives designed their kitchens, and make your own idea of how it should look like. Grab a piece of paper and a pen and start making a sketch. When the contractor comes, you will have something that will show him the kitchen renovating that you really need.




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By: James Copper

A home is more than an investment, it is an asset. The equity that builds up in a home is something that can prove to be very useful. Additionally, home improvements can really help to build equity.

Most people seek out a home improvement loan to make improvements to their home to make it look better or improve upon it so they gain more equity. The most common source for these loans is a home equity loan.

Home improvement loans are looked upon very favorably by lenders. They like that a home owner is building equity in their home and they are often very willing to extend them credit. Home improvements are going to add value to the property, which is an asset for the lender as well. So, it is a win-win situation for both parties.

Getting a home improvement loan is a matter of having the equity on your home. To determine the equity you should get an appraisal. The equity will be the difference between what you owe on the mortgage and the amount the house was appraised for. You can borrow from that amount what you need for improvements.

When you go to get a home improvement loan it is helpful to have the information handy about what improvements you are going to do. Being able to completely explain what you will do with the money can be very helpful in getting the loan approved for the amount you want.

As with any loan, you will need to watch the interest rates and ensure you are not being charged too much. Remember this loan is in addition to the loan you are already paying for your home. With this loan, like with your mortgage, should you default your home is at risk.

Your home improvement loan can be gotten from your current lender or you can shop around for better rates. It is probably best to start with your current lender since you already have a relationship with them and they are most likely to give you a quick approval. It is wise though to at least look at competitors to make sure you get the lowest interest rate possible.

You should also try and speak to a number of decent brokers that have a wide range of lenders on their panel. This way they can go into the market and find you the most suitable loan product and best rate.

Also if you have a bad credit history or are self employed they will be able to go to specialist lenders that are not directly available to the general public.

Home improvement loans can be used to make almost any improvement to your home. If you need the money to fix up your home or if you are just wanting to make some additions, a home improvement loan can be the answer.

Besides helping to build more equity in your home, home improvement can also help to lower your insurance rates, and improve your living conditions. In the long run a home improvement loan can be very beneficial and is a great debt to take on.



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James Copper writes on all areas of finance and investment. He works for Any Loans who source home improvement loans and homeowner loans for people with a poor credit history.

Planning Your Remodel from Start to Finish
By: Ray La Foy

While you are in the research phase, jot down ideas you have for the layout or overall plan of the rooms in your home that are most in need of remodel and repair. For many of us, the high traffic kitchen and bathroom(s) are the rooms where we will begin.

Ultimately, you will need to form an image of how you want your home to look both in your mind and on paper. You can utilize special software designed to help layout remodels, or even start drawing a sketch. Before you start calling contractors or making any remodel supply purchases, you need to have a precise idea of what you want and how it will fit into your room.

If you've never undertaken a remodeling plan yourself before, consider consulting a designer or professional for assistance, at least for your first room. A designer is an expert at helping you make the most of a given space while meeting your needs and your budget. If a professional designer seems too expensive, consider the added cost mistakes and mishaps can cause during a remodel. Wasted materials and man hours add up quick.

To help defray the cost, consider consulting with an expert at a home improvement store or shop. They will often assist you with designing kitchens or baths free of charge. An added benefit is, you can see and pick out the exact items you will need for the remodel on location.

An expert will also help guide you in selecting additional accessories you will need to make truly complete a remodel. Lighting fixtures, doorknobs, switch plates and even towel racks can easily be coordinated for style and function. Having all of the necessary items on hand for your remodel is essential if your contractor is going to complete the job quickly and professionally.

Completing your remodel plans is the first step in creating a gorgeous, modernized home. Working with a trusted contractor and purchasing the materials you will need is second.

Third, you will want to stay involved in the remodel process by making yourself available to the contractor for open communication. Check the progress of each day's work upon completion, ask questions and provide feedback when requested. Although you may not perform the work yourself, you are responsible for ensuring all of your planning pays off in a beautifully remodeled room.



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Home repair.
www.hometechrepair.com
Add function and charm to your home remodel with a cozy fireplace
Fireplace designs.
www.fireplacemantelsales.com

Start Your Home Remodeling Projects Today
By: Ray La Foy

Whether you decide to sell your house or apartment or not, a professional-quality home plan can drastically increase the overall look and the value of your home.

In between two working days, people often only look for relaxation in the evenings. Weekend responsibilities devour weekends, and before we know it, several years have passed before we're ready to tackle remodeling. Where is the best place to start? How can you possibly coordinate a remodel?

First, you will need to take the time to consider what parts of your home need attention first. Focus on one room at a time, and then the overall picture. Many people find it practical to make their initial remodeling investments of time and money in the kitchen and bathrooms. These high traffic areas tend to be most in need of repair and also tend to add value to your home more than other rooms you might work on later.

To get ideas for your remodel, you need to research every option available to you for inspiration. Buy or borrow remodel books and magazines. Watch home remodel shows on television. Visit open houses in your area, noting the design of the rooms you plan to remodel. Anywhere you can seek information can help you in the research phase.

ASK QUESTIONS
If you go to expos, visit showrooms or attend open houses, make sure you ask experts a lot of questions that can help define your ideas and shape your thoughts. Also, when visiting your friends' and relatives' homes you admire, try to do the same.

DON'T BE SHY
It is up to you to ask for the help you need as you plan your remodel. You need to interact with people, consulting with professional designers or contractors as needed. Nothing will happen unless and until you ask questions and become involved with the people who can make remodeling happen.

Ultimately, you will also need to coordinate efforts among all of the parties involved in the design of your home. This may include supply store personnel, contractors, painters and electricians. Without communication, your plans simply cannot be brought together.

With the right approach, many people find remodeling an exciting and enjoyable adventure. Once you have remodeled one room of your home with professional assistance, you may find you need less help with the second or third room you tackle.

Take notes and keep a careful log of all your successful planning efforts. This will make it much simpler to undertake future remodels, or other improvements throughout your home.



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Home plans.
www.homeplancentre.com
Tips on hiring a contractor for your remodel
Contractors.
www.contractortipsonline.com

A Simple Plan for Starting Home Remodels and Repairs
By: Ray La Foy

Whether you plan to sell your house or apartment or live out many more years in the comfort of your home, home repair drastically increases the overall look and value of your home. If you have been living in your home for several years, chances are one, two or several rooms could benefit from home repair.

For many individuals, home repair is not so much about remodeling or updating as much as it is about keeping things in tip-top shape. Whether it is function or aesthetics that prompts your repair plans, you will want the task completed professionally and affordably with as little inconvenience as possible.

It isn't always easy to spot the home repair projects that need our attention. At other times, needed updates or repairs are quite obvious, but we don't really know how or where to begin. Fortunately there are many resources available that can help you formulate plans for home repairs that not only fix or prevent problems, but increase the visual appeal of your home's interior.

Redesigning while repairing even part of a room can be challenging. Whether you plan to have work done on one room, several rooms or your entire house, you can benefit by researching the following:

- Home repair and remodel books and magazines
- Open houses in your area
- Recently remodeled homes owned by friends or relatives
- Remodeling or repair websites
- Television shows specializing in remodeling or home repairs

As you spend time researching ideas, you will gradually start to form a visual plan of what you might like your room or entire home to look like. The layout or design is the most fundamental of the decisions you will ultimately have to make.

It is helpful to draw or use software to create a fairly accurate sketch of the layout of the room(s) to be remodeled or repaired. You can then create a second sketch with the new plans or ideas you develop included.

Except in the case of emergencies, home repairs or remodels generally do not happen quickly. It takes time to not only research what you want done, but to hire a contractor, pick out supplies, and coordinate when the work will be completed. It can seem like an overwhelming task just getting started. But with a systematic approach, you will find the process exciting and enjoyable.

If you need help creating the initial sketch or plan for your remodel even after doing some research, consult with a professional planner. You can either hire a decorator to complete the plans for you, or work with a home improvement store designer free of charge.

Once the plan is in place, begin taking estimates for repairs from contractors. Some contractors complete or coordinate all work details for you, including demolition, plumbing, electrical work and painting. Others perform only specific services, and require you to secure outside help for certain jobs. This can be frustrating and time consuming, so it may be in your best interest to search for a contractor committed to completing the entire job.

With an estimate in place, you can purchase the materials the work will demand yourself, or rely on your contractor to do so. It is then a simple matter to schedule the necessary work and plan for how you will accommodate short-term inconveniences while the work is completed.

A good contractor will complete the work quickly and professionally, leaving you to enjoy the beauty and added value of your remodeled room or home for several years to come.

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Plan your remodel from start to finish
Home plans.
www.homebuildingaid.com
Plans, tips and advice for remodeling your kitchen.
Kitchen remodels.
www.kitchenremodelfaq.com

By: David Fishman

A wood stove is a device, which is normally used in the kitchens for the heating of food, keeping it warm and making it palatable. Some antique wooden stoves can be used for the purpose of heating and cooking even today. Wood stoves are used for household cooking needs as well as for heating purposes.

One of the purposes of a wood burning stove was to enclose the fire so to generate more heat and make the heating more efficient. A wood stove is often used for heating rooms or cooking food.

They are made up of cast iron and other strong metals and are sturdy enough to handle the amount of heat generated. A stove uses other sources of fuel to burn and make heat, many use wood or pellets. Wood stoves are also used to heat homes apart from their cooking function. Some come with glass panes that can handle the heat but adds a nice touch when you see the flame.

It is important to know what types of fuel your particular type of burning stove can use and what cannot be used safely. When purchasing a pellet stove or a wood burning stove, there are many factors to consider before making the purchase. There are a few things to think about before purchasing and installing a wood burning stove in your home. After calculating the installation space understanding how to keep all the combustible items safe you need to hook up the chimney so the smoke is directed to the outside.

Want something different than carrying in wood, cutting wood and storing it, then try out the new pellet stoves, you can store the pellet easily, there is no cutting, no mess, but it gives you the feel of a wood burning stove. When looking at wood stoves and pellet stoves the pellet stoves are a little more expensive but the plus side is that they come ready to use, they are cleaner and easier to use. This is 20% less efficient than wood pellet or corn stoves. Pellet stoves are very easy to use, you don't need to cut wood all you need to do is open the bag of pellets and poor them in, the auger will move the pellets as needed to be burned. Pellet stoves have a mechanical part that feeds the fire when needed; you do not have to go near the hot flame. You can get the pellets anywhere today, most of the major hardware stores carry the easily to carry bags. Stove are cheaper and you can use them with a cheaper fuel source such as pellets, firewood or any other type of materials.

Antique wood stoves are collectors items that are very valuable to some people. There are many different types of antique wood stoves available. Today you can find the stoves in local household stores, furniture stores and many stores that sell antiques.

Some of the older wood stoves are considered antiques, and many people use these pieces as decoration purposes only. Many antique pieces from the past are available for sale today in different antique shops and on the Internet.

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David Marc Fishman sells merchandise inexpensively using auction. Price drop as people shop when buying jewelry at the low bidding site at Priceriot.

By: Jay Moncliff

Buying or building a new home should always be a memorable and cherished experience. Unfortunately, it is not so for most people. This is because you as customers should be aware of certain loopholes the builders try to cover up. Lack of awareness of this, will result in a nasty experience.

Some of the things to be aware of are:
Constructors are always on the lookout for the cheapest ways to get the work done. A business will always place the bid in the hands of the lowest bidder while handing out work. Hence, never believe the builders when they say that they use the ace craftsmen in town. The reality is that they go in for the cheapest labor available, many a times hiring unskilled people with no experience. However this may not be true in the case of certain long standing builders who have their fixed team of workers throughout the year.

Before signing the deal, always have an attorney carefully scrutinize the terms and conditions. Look out for the options you have in case of a defect or malfunctioning. Never sign the contract if the builder is not legally bound to fix the defect or sort it after you move in.

Before moving in, it is beneficial to take your own certified home inspector to check for abnormalities and general quality inspection. Never trust the inspectors got by the builders. In most cases they are either unlicensed or hand-in-glove with the builder. These inspectors just come as a formality and are rarely bothered to check for the defects present.

The government or county inspectors are generally worse. You must realize that they are so loaded with work that they can hardly spare 15 minutes per house. Also they are more concerned about health and hygiene conditions than labor defects.

Do not believe the sales representatives of a builder as they are generally not licensed or regulated by the state. So they go about making false promises. Never sign the contract before verifying all the said claims and better still, take them in writing.

With builders facing a land crunch, a lot of reclamation work is being done swamps and marshy areas and builders are building on them. These are not favorable areas to have the foundations of your house sunk into.

A lot of states have different rules so always beware of what happens to your token money in case you decide against going forward with the deal. Never assume the course of action and always take it in writing from the builder. You do not want to fore go all your earnest money if you back out of the deal.

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Jay Moncliff is the creator of www.qualitydreams.com ; a website specialized on apartments improvement, resources and articles. More info on apartments improvement: apartments improvement.

By: Shane Hester

Replacing a flooring system and not installing new floor registers that match the new floor is an unsightly mistake, yet easy to overlook.

If you are a homeowner, then you will have to hire a flooring contractor at some point, to replace or cover up the carpet, vinyl, hardwood or some type of flooring in your home.

And when you do, make sure you get all of the accessories that go along with the new floor, as well as match the scheme of the house and/or room where it is being installed.

One of the most common mistakes that degrade the intended look of a room is replacing the flooring and reinstalling the old floor registers.

You may be surprised to know that 75 percent of the floors that are replaced each year get accessorized with degrading old floor registers, instead of new decorative floor registers to match the scheme of the rooms.

Before I get into the selection process, I want to point out how and why this happens.

When most of us need work done to our homes, the first thing we do is pickup the yellow pages or go to some sort of online phone book and look for someone we think can do what we need, schedule an appointment and wait for them to show up.

Even though this works for some people, this is not the best way to get a professional job done and done with all the right products. Simply because most of the businesses listed in the phone books are contractors, not decorators or designers and only care about giving you what you want not what you need.

The best choice is to visit a local flooring center so you can view a larger selection of products and get ideas from their decorators on how to match accessories, like floor registers, to the actual flooring you are going to have installed.

Even if you decide not to purchase from that store, at least you will have a better understanding of what you need so you can make sure to mention to the contractor that you want to have decorative floor registers installed to match your flooring.

Thankfully, this most commonly overlooked issue of installing new floor registers to complement your new flooring, is something anyone can do themselves. So if hindsight is 20/20, do not worry, you are not stuck with what you got.

This brings us to the issues of how to choose and install floor registers, heating registers, grates, grilles or what ever term you like to use.

Let us begin with the installation so you know how to choose the right sizes. All you have to do is remove the existing registers, usually done with a screwdriver, measure the length and width of the opening in the floor, and reinstall until you get the new ones.

Subtract 1/8" to 1/4"(depending on how square the opening is) and this is the inside dimensions for the new floor registers.

You can now use these dimensions to choose and order your new floor grates.

As far as choices, there are literally hundreds of different styles and finishes to choose from. Pick colors or finishes matching each room, but try to stay with the same style throughout the house. This will keep each room coordinated together.

If you have some rooms of your home that you change the colors or decorations in often, it is best to select neutral colors to these room. Also make sure to take cabinets wallpaper and other decor in the rooms into consideration.

You may also want to look at replacing the air return grilles to match the look of your new floor registers.

By following these guidelines, you can have a wonderful looking home interior that stands out in the crowd, and usually for less than $250 bucks.

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Shane Hester helps website owners increase profits through exclusive webdesign and marketing at WebFirstCreations To see this customers products go to Floor Registers By FloorsToGo

Spring Cleaning for Driveways, Paths, and Parking Areas
By: Aaron Stanlich

Time was when most houses were approached on foot up the garden path and entered through the front door; the horse or carriage presumably was left by the front gate. The advent of automobiles and busier roads has left the front doors of many older houses high and dry, blindly facing a busy highway on which it is no longer safe for horse or automobile to tarry. Many of these older houses are now entered by what was once the back or side door, and a new approach has been necessarily created, often involving some form of driveway and parking space. Modern houses are designed with their main entrance oriented to the automobile's requirements, usually up a private driveway. In the suburbs, it may be a short suburban tarred strip; in the country, a longer shaled driveway leading to the house.

Whether you have a short or a long driveway, it will need certain maintenance from time to time. Make your inspection after you are sure the last snow has come and gone. If yours is a gravel driveway, clean up and rake back any gravel that may have been snowplowed off (usually onto the adjoining lawn).

If you have a blacktop driveway, check for cracks and holes. If these are minor, they can easily be repaired with special tars available from hardware stores and lumberyards. Occasionally, the whole driveway can benefit from a coat of blacktop sealer that creates a new wearing surface.

Similarly, minor repairs to concrete driveways are easily made at this stage using a concrete mix that can be bought in small sacks from building suppliers, lumberyards, and many hardware stores. (See pages 21-24 for more information on concrete repair.)

If yours is a longer driveway made of shale, crushed stone, split rock, or gravel, it will probably require more regular maintenance than either blacktop or concrete. Snowplowing, if necessary in your area, can exact a heavy toll by removing surface material along with the snow.

Any hole or rut-even a small one-will be enlarged by the action of rain and runoff and eventually become a major hazard. No matter how carefully a graded driveway is originally graded, sooner or later it will develop ridges and depressions that begin to collect water. The holes seem to grow of their own accord; in attempting to skirt them, drivers gradually change a smooth, straight run into a winding obstacle course.

This process, however, can be slowed greatly by a little rake-work now and then. When all the frost is out of the ground and any heaved sections have subsided-and the ground is reasonably dry-fill in holes and depressions with material raked from the high spots. If permanent ruts across the driveway persist from heavy rains and runoff, consider installing new or additional culverts to carry off the excess water.

Even though it is important not to begin to level your driveway or parking area until you are certain that cold weather has subsided and all the frost is gone, early spring is the best time of year to do this kind of work, especially if you are undertaking more extensive repairs like major reshaling or adding additional parking space. Spring repairs allow the driveway to be compacted firmly (by use) during the summer, minimizing the amount of loose surface material that snowplows may later scrape away.

Much of what has been said about driveways is pertinent to paths. Paths and walkways that are not well drained or that are constructed over bases unsuited to their climate can suffer considerable e-raised paving material, loosened bricks, and misplaced flagstones. Before attempting any repair, wait for the effects of winter the rainy season to subside.



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Aaron Stanlich is a freelance author for Hit Kingdom traffic exchange ... www.hitkingdom.com . He writes on a variety of subjects and interests.

Anyone who owns a home wishes to have his / her furniture replaced at some stage. Furniture ages and become out of shape due to various reasons. The reason to change or remodel may be anything, but if we have a look at the variety of furniture available in the market, one would be tempted to buy something without reason. Furniture's are widely classified as Antique Furniture, Art Deco Furniture, Chippendale Furniture, Hand Crafted Furniture, Period furniture, Reproduction Furniture, Victorian Furniture etc. By no means is this list either complete or comprehensive. There are a lot of other styles available if only one has the time and patience to search for it.

Antique furniture means exactly what the name implies. Items salvaged from England and France, in a variety of sizes, tables made from reclaimed timber, the range available in this category includes antique gates and wrought iron pieces.

Art Deco furniture is furniture designs based on Asian, American and European Arts & Crafts influences. Available in Classical styles of 17-19th centuries, hand crafted furniture and custom hand painted accessories in a variety of styles offer value for money.

Chippendale furniture is furniture based on the designs of the 17-19th centuries. This type of furniture is mostly hand made and gives an aura of sophistication to the most utilitarian furniture.

Hand crafted furniture includes Dressers, sideboards, media cabinets, filing cabinets, tables, book shelves, desk and chairs. This type of furniture is available ready stock or is made to order. Some of the furniture's are made up of a mix and match of hardwoods besides being offered in solid woods of various types. Accessories like wooden knobs and handles can be upgraded to solid brass hardware.

Reproduction furniture is often handcrafted like its original. Besides the styles and designs from the earlier centuries, World War II designs by the Navy are also available.

Victorian furniture is ideal for the spacious homes. This type of furniture is made of solid wood and most have unique details and accents.

Mission style furniture is mostly in solid styles and designs. Furniture in this sector can be a coat rack, rocking chairs, dining tables, cabinets, and chairs in various designs. This kind of furniture is can be ordered in a variety of hardwood frames, custom made, with leather of cloth for the furnishings.

Apart from the above said furnishing styles, one can also choose from the modern day furniture styles. Today, the accent is more on the contemporary look favored by the young generation. Furniture that is sleek and easy to move about is preferred over the bulky and space grabbing designs. Here too, designs can be chosen from the ready stocks available or one can design his own furniture. Whether a piece of furniture is to be made from wood, glass, iron or any other material depends upon the design of the furniture.

Whatever be the style of furniture a person likes, he would do well if he chooses a design that best suits his home decor, budget and functionality. So keeping a cool head while making a decision and lending an ear to his/her partner's ideas will be ideal not only in deciding about home remodeling but also in home making.



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Jim Brown writes about home appliances coupon, Homeclick Deals, HomeDepot Promo and AJ Madison Discouts

Do It Yourself Sauna Kits: Don't Make a Costly Mistake
By: Mike Hirn

Do it yourself sauna kits have come a long way in the last few years. Having a home sauna is within reach of more and more people all the time. Price, ease of construction and quality have all improved. Our understanding of the health benefits of using a sauna has also increased. Many more people are appreciating the health aspect of saunas that go well beyond the obvious relaxation and feeling of well-being.

Before starting a sauna project you should consider these areas:
-The type of sauna
-Where it will go
-Materials
-How much work you want to put in
-Design considerations

What type of sauna is right for you?
Saunas can be divided into 2 broad categories: Infrared and Traditional.

Infrared saunas use Infrared wave emitters to produce the heat that creates the sauna environment. These waves penetrate your skin causing you to sweat. The air and interior of the sauna is not heated very much so warm-up time for this type of sauna is minimal. Exhaust ventilation is not a consideration so they fit easily into basements and bathrooms. These saunas are "dry" since there are no hot rocks to use for making steam.

Traditional saunas use a heat source of some kind to heat rocks, which heat and circulate the air. The rocks can then be sprinkled with water to produce steam. For many sauna enthusiasts this is the heart of the experience. There are wood, electric and gas stoves. Wood and gas stoves need an approved ventilation system, which limits their location somewhat. With any "steam" sauna moisture ventilation is also a consideration.

Where will you put your sauna?
Saunas can be located inside or outside. Locating outside in colder climates lets you take advantage of the extreme difference in temperature between interior and exterior. There is nothing quite like walking out of 100 + degree sauna into below zero air temperatures to create a truly unique experience.

On the other hand there are advantages to locating indoors. Convenience is obvious but warm-up time and operating costs will both be less with an inside unit.

Wherever you decide to build your kit you should think ahead about where you will get a power source and how you deal with ventilation. Having a convenient place for dressing and relaxing afterwards is a definite plus.

Which materials are best?
The traditional material for a sauna is wood, most commonly cedar. There is a practical reason for this since it stays relatively cool and absorbs moisture as needed. All wood for the interior should be clear to avoid knots that will seep sap and create problems. If you are buying a kit be sure the quality and thickness of the wood is well established. Sauna exteriors can be whatever material you want within reason.

How much work do you want to do?
There are kits available that need very little assembly. There are also kits that will take a good week of work or better to complete. A quick check of the Internet will show a huge variety in the work required, quality available and price of do it yourself sauna kits. The greatest part is that event the snap together modular kits can be delivered right to your door within a few days.

What goes into the design?
The design of your sauna is determined by where it is going, how it is heated and how many people are going to be in it at any one time. With many kits there is little design flexibility. It is up to you to be sure that the kit is right for your situation. On the other hand if you are buying individual components you can let your creativity run with very few restrictions. Saunas are very forgiving structures. If you can create a situation where heat is produced and contained you can have a functioning sauna.

If you want to put together your own do it yourself sauna kit the options are almost endless. The convenience has never been greater than it is today. There are many reasons to get your own home sauna, not he least of which include the tremendous health benefits of regular sauna use. It won't take long after building your sauna before you understand why so many people are truly devoted to their home saunas.



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Mike Hirn is a longtime sauna enthusiast. His website supplies a wealth of FREE INFORMATION about the construction, use and health benefits of home saunas. Take a look at www.the-home-sauna-center.com/sauna-kits.html

By: Riley Hendersen

Part of successfully decorating a bathroom to meet your needs is including those elements that reflect your very personal style. When it comes to bathrooms, there are high-end renovations such as those that require construction - including the replacement of vanities, toilets, tiles, bathtubs, and showers. But many homeowners may be surprised by how more aesthetic - and far less expensive - changes, such as towels, artwork, shower curtain, and a bathroom rug, will go a long way towards transforming the look of your bathroom.

A bathroom rug because of its versatility and affordability is one of the easiest accessories to use in the transformation of a bathroom. Rugs of this kind come in a variety of shapes, colors, and textures; one can be always be found to complement the style of your bathroom.

For many, the purchase of a bathroom rug is the very last thing they do in the renovation of a bathroom; but if you are working within a restricted budget, keep in mind that it can be one of the only things you do in the renovation of your bathroom. Not much carries as much visual impact as this small item.

There are many ways in which to integrate a bathroom rug into your overall bathroom design. You may have a unified theme in your bathroom - floral, Asian, seaside, or any number of children's themes for a child's bathroom - that can be accented with a similarly themed rug; you may wish to complement the overall tone of the room - Victorian, country, traditional, eclectic, and antique - with a well chosen bathroom rug.

A warmly colored bathroom with ceramic tile may be best complemented by a soft, warm colored rug; a contemporary designed bathroom may benefit from a strong colored bathroom rug that's less plush and more textured. The prices also vary greatly so keep budget in mind when searching for your ideal bathroom rug; but in many cases, you can find a beautiful and complementary bathroom rug for under $50.

In addition to form, the bathroom rug provides its own share of function as well. A rug can provide warmth on an otherwise chilly floor; there's nothing worse than stepping out of a shower onto a cold, hard floor. A bathroom rug also provides protection for the floor or carpet underneath it - sheltering it from water damage.

Another added convenience of a bathroom rug is its availability. Rugs can be found in any number of retail stores, home improvement stores, and even online for the ease of shopping right from your home and having your merchandise shipped straight to your door.

A bathroom is a very personal space; that which offers refuge and comfort in a world where we are rarely left in peace. But in order to maximize the power and effect your bathroom space can have in your life, its decor must reflect the style that is unique you. Don't hold back when it comes to adding your personal touches to your bathroom - including the addition of a bathroom rug. The result will be a room that reveals your style to visitors and envelops you in comfort and familiarity.



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For more information on bathrooms, try visiting www.bathroomdetails.com - a website that specializes in providing bathroom related tips, advice and resources including information on bathroom rug.

By: Riley Hendersen

Nothing quite equals the feeling of extravagance that comes with a luxurious bathroom. Designed to pamper its owner and create a respite from the outside world, a well-appointed bathroom ideally includes all the elements that mean the most to the homeowner. There's nothing quite as enjoyable as a bathroom done to your specifications; and there's no easier way to outfit bathrooms than by choosing from among bathroom suites; equal parts comfort and elegance and able to set the tone for your entire bathroom.

Bathroom suites are complete bathroom sets that are available for purchase together; they most often include the toilet, sink and vanity, and bathtub/shower. Bathroom suites come in a variety of styles and colors and can be installed all at once in an effort to create a cohesive room. Whether you're looking to create a contemporary feel with sleek lines and marble topped sink vanities, or a traditional feel with a pedestal sink and wood vanity, a well chosen bathroom suite can enhance the theme of your bathroom.

You can find bathroom suites for order at most home improvement stores; knowledgeable employees can help you find the style that best suits your bathroom design. Bring all of your ideas to the table including colors, textures, and accessories, so that whoever is helping you can get an accurate idea of what you have in mind.

Professional installation of your bathroom suite - while somewhat pricey - can be more than worth the expense, as a professional will ensure that the installation is completed with plumbing and electrical specifications in mind. Of course, there are those enthusiastic do-it-yourselfers who will confidently tackle the installation of their bathroom suite, but most people would be happy to step aside and let the professionals handle the work.

Of course in this day and age of the Internet, it is also possible to shop for and purchase bathroom suites online where you can have them shipped straight to your door for installation by you or a professional skilled in renovation and plumbing. Again, if you choose to handle the installation yourself, you must be sure that you account for all plumbing and electrical considerations.

The prices of bathroom suites - like any other furniture - vary according to brand and quality of material. But you'll often find that there's frequent clearance prices on expensive items in which you are interested. It's important to shop around and compare prices; just as with anything else, different retailers offer different prices. Visit some reputable websites to learn all you can about bathroom suites and the prices you should expect.

Outfitting your bathroom to reflect your style and feature contemporary upgrades will have enormous impact seen in a number of different ways; an upgraded bathroom will hold significant value should you ever choose to sell your home; and, in the meantime, these upgrades will keep you comfortable and happy as you enjoy your space. Bathroom suites offer a convenient and comprehensive way to transform your bathroom - from floor to ceiling and everything in between.



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For more information on bathrooms, try visiting www.bathroomdetails.com - a website that specializes in providing bathroom related tips, advice and resources including information on bathroom suites.

Are You Using The Right Tools For The Job?
By: Joshua Spaulding

There is no better way to mess up a home improvement job than by using the wrong tools for the job. You want to make sure you have the right tools and the right size to eliminate the risk of having to start over. There are hundreds of tools that you may have to use during some project, but for this article I will focus on wrenches, hand saws, and other hand tools.

When it comes to wrenches, there are over 10 different wrenches you may come across for the job. The most basic kind is the open-end wrench, which provides grip on two sides of the head while allowing another side to be open so the wrench can be placed on a nut. Another common wrench is the box wrench, which has an enclosed head and provides more leverage by enclosing the nut.

The other two commonly known wrenches are the combination wrench and the adjustable wrench. As their names imply, the combination wrench is a combination of the open-end and box wrench while the adjustable wrench allows you to adjust the size of the head.

Much like wrenches, there are around 14 different kinds of hand saws as well. The rip saw has teeth that are cross-filed to ensure that the chisel point is set square to the direction of cutting. Because of the large, chisel-shaped teeth, it is made to cut with the wood grain. The ragged cut that this hand saw makes is unsatisfactory for finish work.

A crosscut hand saw is best used for cutting across wood grain and helps produce a smoother cut than rip saws. This can also be used to cut plywood. The last hand saw worth mentioning is the hacksaw, which is used to cut metal or plastic. This hand saw consists of a blade held in a steel frame with high tension to hold the blade rigidly straight.

The last topic I will hit on is your basic hand tools that are of necessity for many home improvement jobs. These consist of hammers, pliers, wrenches, screwdrivers and cutting tools and so on. While there are a hundred different styles and models for hand tools, the best way to find what you are looking for is to decide what kind of job you are doing. For instance, there are cutting tools for cutting ceramic, different axes and hand saws. Once you know exactly what you are looking for, take the time to do further research and you can narrow down your choices.



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Sprucing Up A Bathroom With A Bathroom Accessory
By: Riley Hendersen

As evidenced by the continual parade of home makeover shows, the public has a ravenous appetite for redecorating. From our kitchens to our bedrooms and everything in between; not much is off limit from renovation. But luckily, changing the face of a room doesn't have to break the bank; especially when it comes to a bathroom. For literally pennies, the purchase of a bathroom accessory can bring new life to your bathroom.

There are many ways in which to utilize a bathroom accessory. For some, luxurious hand towels that coordinate with the overall colors of the bathroom can pull the room together. For others, the use of complementary artwork can give a bathroom a sense of cohesiveness. But no matter what your taste - or budget - a carefully selected bathroom accessory can have a significant effect in a room that's often on the small side.

Often, when you're dealing with a smaller space, big change can be a relative term. In a bathroom, the addition of a beautifully constructed soap dish that adds color and whimsy can affect enormous change in the room. So when it comes to choosing a bathroom accessory, look for items that will carry the largest visual impact.

A bathroom accessory can fit into a number of different categories. There are those accessories that are chosen to fit into an overall theme; many homeowners will often use a theme in a child's bathroom - such as princesses, fish, sports, and fairies. There are, of course, also themes that lend themselves to an adult bathroom - such as garden, floral, and country. In these cases, you will often find retailers that offer a line of themed accessories - including shower curtain, rug, towels, soap holder, toothbrush holder, cups, tissue holders, and much more.

There are more overall looks for a bathroom than any one person could possibly dream. If there's a particular premise that sparks your interest, chances are that you will find a bathroom accessory to complement it. In some cases, people choose to use a bathroom accessory to denote a particular holiday. Christmas towels may hang on the towel rod during the holiday season; decorative pastel soaps may sit in the soap dish during Easter; red towels, red rug, and festive hearts may decorate a bathroom for Valentine's Day; the possibilities are only limited by your imagination.

Others may use a bathroom accessory of one kind or another to create a "feel" within a space. For many tub enthusiasts, the bathroom is a place of refuge and calm; a place where they can soak their day away and relax in a soothing environment. In this case, many choose to create a spa-like environment in their bathroom - using such accessories as candles, soft fluffy towels, and beautifully scented soaps, bath oils, and lotions - for pampering at a moment's notice.

Ultimately, your bathroom is only what you make of it. It can be a utilitarian space that meets your basic needs. Or - with the addition of thought, attention to detail, and a well chosen bathroom accessory - it can be a private space reflective of your personal style.



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For more information on bathrooms, try visiting www.bathroomdetails.com - a website that specializes in providing bathroom related tips, advice and resources including information on bathroom accessory.