Using a Project Manager Can Save the Homeowner Both Time and Money

A construction project manager is someone who will take over the job and make sure everything runs smoothly when you are remodeling or having construction done on your home. He or she is like the foreman or the one that organizes everything to make sure everything goes smoothly and their primary job is to look out for clients well being during the remodeling or construction process.

A construction project manager also helps you with the blue print or plans that are needed to build your new home or addition to an existing house. He deals with all the contractors and suppliers to make sure they get paid to make sure everything gets done on time and the good thing is that he or she negotiates with the sub-contractors and suppliers to get the best price for you the home owner. To add, the contractor also keeps the budget within specified guidelines and keeps the time lines in check.

You want to have a construction project manager on your job so you know everything is going to run smoothly and you have someone to deal with rather than have to deal with various different people and getting different answers from different people you're only dealing with one person. This way the client can concentrate on what the costs are, where the project is going, and gives the client total control in the decision making of the project.

As with all construction projects you want to make sure the construction project manager has no complaints against him or her and you can check with the BBB also known as the Better Business Bureau to make sure they are in good standing. They may also have some awards or certifications that you might want to look into before hiring a construction project manager.

Some of the construction project managers work independently of a construction company and this is a good thing because there is no favoritism towards one construction company or another. Those way things get done in a timely manner and this is what you are in need of. The benefit is that the homeowner saves because the project manager only makes around fifteen percent of the project cost. This way the owner can reinvest in the property with the savings or pocket the money as profit.

Cheryl Criswell: I am also a registered builder, and build 2 spec houses a year for the market. I also provide project management for those wanting to be their own builder. For more information got to http://www.renovatingreferral.com Find out how this website can find the best contractor, project manager, or remodeler for you and your project.

You Really Should Hire a Remodeling Contractor

When you take on the next home improvement project you may be wise to seek the services of a remodeling contractor for certain task. There are many projects that a person can certainly complete themselves, but certain projects will be more cost effective in the long run if you hire a qualified remodeling co2214ntractor. This article will look at some of the home remodeling jobs you may want to consider a project for the remodeling contractor.

So, What Is a Remodeling Contractor?

Remodeling contractors are often small companies that specialize in certain aspects or the remodeling field. Some are skilled at adding decks, sun rooms, and saunas to give your home that new luxurious feel.

Flooring Can Be Tricky

If flooring is one of the remodeling projects you have planned for a room you may want to consider hiring a remodeling contractor. If you have all the tools to do the job correctly you may be ok on the end of the project, but the skills needed to do the job right can be tricky. Another value that a remodeling contractor may be able to offer is a better connection on product price and that may make up the difference.

Kitchens Are a Gate Way to Value

Kitchens are one of the most remodeled rooms in the entire home. Your family will spend a lot of hours in the kitchen. Some aspects like adding some new counter tops or dressing up the cabinets can be done on your own. If you plan to replace the kitchen cabinets this may be the time to hire a skilled remodeling contractor who has a proven list of satisfied customers. Trying to get them level and situated is a job. You will discover that your kitchen is not as square and level as you might have thought.

The main benefits of hiring a remodeling contractor is the speed at which they can complete a project, and they have the benefit of doing several project just like the one you need done. If you do it you may be facing the project for the very first time.

Find more helpful remodeling tips by visiting http://best-home-improvement-projects.com where you will find helpful remodeling tips, advice and resources to include Remodeling Contractor.

Home Remodeling Tips

Home remodeling includes remodeling of various parts of your house such as kitchen, bathroom, lobby, sitting room, basement and all. Home remodeling is a complete package that gives a new and complete look to your home. With home remodeling, you also get to modify the exterior5B3s and interiors of your home in a way that you want. Home modeling is now a common phenomenon amongst many home owners in many parts of the world. Home remodeling also lets you restructure your home and incorporate the latest trends and fashion.

However, there are a few things you need to consider before opting for home remodeling. First of all you need to hire a contractor to remodel your home (of course after you have done enough research find the best one; internet research is a good option). A contractor is a n expert and can also show you various options and designs. An expert will do a better job than you can do any day. Second, you need to have a budget for home remodeling. You need to keep some money aside for home remodeling. Also, keep in mind that during the process of home remolding, sometimes there are unanticipated expenditures. So, always have some funds aside for that.

You can choose either specialized contractor or general contractor for your tasks, depending on your requirements. Also, consult your friends and relatives when choosing a contractor. If possible, see their past works to get an idea of the quality of their work. Home renovation does not happen everyday, and when you get it done, ensure that you get the best.

For more tips and details please visit www.allremodel.com.

Natasha

Aspects of Conservatory Sunrooms

If you have decided to build a sun room, it is probably because you are hoping to be able to use this room through the year and that means in all seasons. To do this, you need to consider the rooms design very carefully to avoid overspending your budget. Everyone knows that insulation is the most important factor in design with a conservatory, for example, but inadequate insulation doesnt necessarily save you money. First, if you have too little insulation (or too much), you may discover that your conservatory sun room is less comfortable than you thought it would be. Secondly, you may end up spending more money in keeping the house warm and cool than you would if you had spent the money in the design phase on proper insulation. Youll need to take a look at the building code requirements for conservatory insulation. and then talk about this issue with your contractor. Its entirely possible that by so spending a little more and exceeding those recommendations, it can save you in the long run e.g. if you were to dispense with the commonly-used 2x4 studs and use 2x6 studs instead, you would gain an additional insulating 2 inches for your room. After insulation, consider windows. Because they will make up the main cost of your conservatory, you need to choose them carefully. Windows do not only impact your homes appearance. but they have a functional component. Plus, they are a major factor in the construction budget of your sun room.

First. you should think about the type of glazing you require. Glazing isnt just for letting sun in - it should not only let sunlight in, but it should also keep out harmful rays and protect your family and you from the suns UV.

Some special glazes can retain heat in your sun room, acting as an additional insulation. The insulating properties of windows will depend on their cost and the material from which they are made.

Windows frames made of wood are normally the most expensive option, and these will need some maintenance such as occasional painting or possibly refinishing. But wood windows are relatively efficient too, in terms of energy.

Vinyl windows are very energy efficient, as well as moderate in cost compared to other types. Youll have a wide choice of colors and often a low maintenance requirement.

Finally. windows constructed of aluminum are less energy efficient, but are usually lower maintenance or even in many cases maintenance free. The clad style is very common, and these are relatively maintenance free, with energy efficiency that comes close to wood frames but at a far lower cost. Remember when planning a conservatory that whether or not a window opens and closes will impact their cost. So, the more non-opening, or fixed windows that you choose to include in your sun room, the cheaper your overall design will be. Think carefully about which of the windows will need to be accessible and opened or closed, and which can be non-opening in order to give you the flexibility that you need in using the room, without the additional cost of opening windows you wont really be needed.

Andrew Caxton is the author and editor of many resources published at http://www.allsunrooms.com He provides tips and advice about patio enclosures as well as on the patio rooms at conservatory sunroom

Remove Black Mold From Your Bathroom Walls

In order to remove bathroom mold, you will need a solution that can remove the source of the black mold. When cleaning mold and mildew, you have to observe the perimeter wall and also look for any sources of moisture. If you have black mold and mildew in your bathroom, it is most likely causing a problem with you and your family. By having these toxins which the spores produce, it will cause serious mold health effects. When removing mold, you will have to be sure to remove the source of the problem. Since mold a1109nd mildew are attracted to moisture and also need something to eat, you will have to find these sources. In more times than most, black mold and mildew grows on the wall because the wall is a building material which is a food source. When you have a high humidity value inside the areas of the bathroom, you will see dark spots of the black mold growing.

If you were to live with black mold in your house, you would feel some signs and symptoms of the toxins which the black mold delivers. These symptoms are caused from the excrement of the mold and mildew. Excrement is really the digestion of the mold and mildew. After eating off the walls of the home, the black mold delivered excrement which is toxic. Thus, while you and your family have mold issues.

In order to effectively remove the spores of the mold, you will need to find the source of the problem. If you have a water leak or some type of moisture intrusion, then you will need to find the source of this problem. By just removing the mold on the walls, and ignoring the source of the problem, you will still have a mold problem guaranteed. What mold inspections are about is finding the source of the problem. If you are clever enough to know there is a moisture problem you can then go ahead and attack the area using a natural cleaning product. Be sure when using natural cleaning products that they are strong enough to remove black mold effectively. Natural cleaning products are all about using regular household ingredients, but will effectively remove and prevent mold and mildew. The challenge with most green cleaning products is that they are not tough enough to destroy mold and mildew. Let me give you an example, most people will use bleach to remove the spores of the mold and mildew. But what happens here, is the mold is only removed temporarily. By using bleach you are only removing the topical surface of the problem. It is not attacking the source or changing the DNA make up of the mold and mildew. There is a natural ingredient out there which cleans mold and mildew and also creates a barrier to prevent mold growth.

By removing mold spores effectively, you will need to make sure the source is controlled. In order to control the source of the problem with mold. You will need a solution that creates a clear barrier or shield from you and the mold. This process is called an encapsulate. The encapsulate is a way which mold and mildew will suffocate because there is no source of food allowed. By protecting the walls of your bathroom, walls of your house, and other building materials, you have an ability to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. The challenge with black mold and mildew is taking away the source of the problem. Using bleach will only remove mold temporarily. If you are serious and have bathroom mold on your walls and in your house, then you need a strong natural cleaning product to kill mold. The natural cleaning product should be organic due to the harsh chemicals in other cleaning products. Have a look at Safe Shield to use as an effective natural cleaning product against mold and mildew. Safe Shield is also an organic solution and combined with Molderizer, it is a strong combination to effectively remove black mold and also prevent it from coming back. To increase the indoor air quality of your home, try an organic cleaning solution that will remove and prevent mold from ever coming back.

Effectively remove black mold from your bathroom walls with an organic cleaning solution.
Got questions about mold and mildew, get free mold removal tips by asking.

Steel Buildings Vs Cargo Containers

It has become somewhat of a common practice to use cargo containers for storage. But before you make an investment in a cargo container, be certain to do your research.

Legalities of Cargo Containers and Steel Buildings on Properties

Recently, those using of cargo containers for storage have come under scrutiny. In some counties, cargo containers have even been banned and their owners fined! The city counsel of Apache Junction recently banned cargo containers for storage, mainly because residents were complaining about the declining aesthetic value of their neighborhoods due to the unattractive storage containers dotting the landscape. As an alternative to cargo containers, the city counsel approved the use of steel buildings and metal buildings for use by residents and businesses.

Owners of these storage containers were forced to remove them from their property and find other ways to store their goods such as metal buildings and steel buildings. As you can imagine, purchasing a new storage solutions and transferring all of their goods created a great deal of additional work and headache for cargo container owners. Even if cargo containers aren't banned where you live, they could be in the near future.

Aesthetic Value of Cargo Containers and Steel Buildings

Cargo containers were never designed to be attractive. They are functional containers designed to transport goods via truck, train, or ocean liner. Used cargo containers are often damaged from years of being transported around the world. Even if you don't mind the lack of aesthetics, you're neighbors or your city may not appreciate the presence of a cargo container on your property.

Steel buildings on the other hand are designed for use on land. Today's steel buildings and metal buildings have come a long way since the basic designs of the past. Though the frame of the buildings are metal or steel, the front and back panels of steel buildings today can be manufactured with siding, wood, or stone for an attractive look that brings a neat and consistent look to your landscape. French doors, residential doors, and finished windows, make a storage unit look like an attractive second home on your property.

Variety of Uses for Cargo Containers and Metal Buildings

Though you may be purchasing a cargo container for storage now, you may want to utilize the space for a different purpose in the future. Many people use cargo containers to shelter vehicles or as office space. Will a cargo container meet the needs of uses you may find for it in the future?

Steel buildings and metal buildings are available in styles and designs to meet a variety of needs. Placing an automatic garage door on the front or back panel turns your steel building into a garage. Windows let light in for a pleasing environment in which to work should you decide to use the building as an office or workshop. Because steel buildings are manufactured for use by people and not for cargo, they can be easily wired for electricity to power lights, computers, refrigerators, power tools, or any other electrical device.

Before you make a decision on how to handle your storage needs, be sure to do your research and weigh all of your available options. You may be surprised at the low cost and wide variety of options offered by steel buildings and metal buildings!

Author is a freelance copywriter. For more information on MS Access Courses, visit http://www.MicrosoftTraining.net/.

Tile Shower Pan Installation Tips

Tile shower pan installation tips can help you build a ceramic shower yourself. Also the more you know about how to build a shower pan, the better you can work with the tradesman who actually builds your shower for you.

The traditional way to build a shower pan is to use masonry to build a base upon which the tile is set and grouted. This is a simple concept but not so simple to actually do. There are several tricks that tile setters use that make it hard for a normal handy person to build a shower pan. The stakes are high when building a shower pan. Most of the critical elements of a shower floor get covered up during construction. If you make mistakes and the shower leaks, there is no easy way to redo your mistakes so everything must be torn out and you get to start over.

See the real reason for a shower pan is that a shower floor naturally leaks. D81The grout does anyway. The grout in a shower floor is porous...water goes through it. Without a waterproof liner under the floor, some of the water in the shower will go right through the shower base and rot the subfloor. So a shower pan has a waterproof liner underneath the ceramic tile designed to route any water coming through the grout to the drain. The drain is especially designed with weep holes under the surface of the floor to catch the runoff that moves through the grout.

The steps to building the pan are these basic processes.

• Build a solid subfloor, either wood or concrete.
• Set the drain so the finished height is at the finished level of the floor.
• Pour the first base layer of mortar sloped to the base of the drain.
• Put in the vinyl pan liner six inches up the walls and glue to the base of the drain.
• Put gravel in lower drain holes to keep hole open.
• Pour top base masonry level sloped to the drain.
• Lay tile with thinset over cured base.
• Grout tile.

That's the concept and it's a fairly simple concept with quite a few tricks and also many variations. For example, some people put the vinyl membrane on the bottom and just pour and slope one coat of masonry.

The way to avoid all this process is with a tile ready shower. At least three companies make complete systems that include pans with built in drains all ready for tile to be installed after the pans are set in place. Some systems use foam and vinyl sheets to make the pans in any configuration. Others use standard pans which may or may not fit your application. But the tile ready shower pans save a lot of time and require less skill. The disadvantage is cost. Complete traditionally constructed tile showers can cost less than just the parts for some of the tile ready showers.

Also you can get fiberglass shower pans to use as shower floors. These pans are probably available at your local building supply store. You can use a fiberglass pan as a base and put tile on the rest of the shower. Fiberglass shower pans are not made for tile installation over the pan. Also anything other than standard sizes will be unavailable or very expensive.

You can see there are alternatives to a traditional masonry shower, but there are good reasons why most tile showers are still built the "old" way!

Puzzled about how to build tile showers? Need more information? Visit our site for tile shower pan tips.

We invite you to visit http://www.installingceramictile.net for answers to your ceramic shower questions.

Choose a Luxurious and Custom Built Hot Tub for Your Home

A hot tub is defined as a large home-made or manufactured tub usually filled up with heated water and used widely for taking a quick dip, relieving pain, massage, or hydrotherapy. The tub has jets for massaging purposes and soothes your pain. Usually located outdoors, tubs need to be protected and monitored regularly to get the best benefits, as well as for privacy. This exercise pool helps you to customize your requirements to set up a spa that fits your outdoor environment and styling.

There are three different styles of hot tubs are available in the market these days:

Simple wooden-staved soaking tubs:

This particular style of hot tub is made up with wooden staves and steel bands; in looks it resembles a very large barrel. Normally, redwood, cedar, or teak is used in such tubs. These types of tubs are not deep and are inset within a wooden deck for ease of entry.

One piece plastic tubs or spas:

In such types of hot tubs arrangements, a person can enjoy a variety of seating arrangements within the tub. In this system, individual seat is often given the coverage of one or more water jets which facilitates the body to relax and sooths the pain easily. Being economical than the wooden staved s10EDoaking tubs, such tubs are far easy to install, and more energy efficient in producing effective results.

Pleasurable sensations:

Such tubs are also known as 'erotic' after the Greek God Eros. Meant only for giving pleasant sensations to the body, in pleasurable sensations the mechanism deals with soothing your aching muscles and relaxing your tired mind.

Importance of Tubs in Modern Life:

In this modern life, the importance of hot tubs cannot be denied. These tubs are easy to place inside the home, needs easy maintenance and can be enjoyed with friends and family. People with limited space at their home can found hot tubs as a great and healthy way of complete fun.

Myself webmaster of http://www.easylifehottubs.com, an online resource for buying the Hot tubs and spa hot tubs for you and your family.

Vintage Decor and Ideas for Your Home

Shabby Chic, also known as Vintage, is the idea of incorporating accessories, furniture, and household items from the years 1900-1950 to decorate your home. But what makes this dcor a popular decorating style? It provides a comfortable and casual look through the use of Vintage accessories, new dcor that looks old, pastels, comfy light painted furniture, lace tablecloths, dreamy soft floral fabrics, wrought iron curtain rods with sheer curtains, and vivid fresh flowers. The idea of combining the old with the new opens up endless possibilities when selecting Shabby Chic home dcor and furnishings.

Imagine visiting your grandparents and snuggling in comfortable soft furniture, while being surrounded by colorful fresh flowers and the soft scent of candles. This style can create the same sensation for your own home. It balances elegant items with old and worn, silver accessories with painted wood tables, and soft area rugs with old lace.

If your budget is limited, Shabby Chic decorating is the perfect solution. You can scour some of the great websites noted below for Shabby Chic home dcor.

Shabby Chic and Vintage use furniture that is worn, along with stylish items and things that look old. Therefore, you have a varied range of choices for furniture and home dcor.

Consider the following ideas as a guide:

A fresh coat of paint is a great way of giving old furniture pieces some Shabby Chic appeal. You can also update older upholstered furniture through the use of slip covers or large throws. For small tables, such as side tables, coffee tables, or consoles, look for pieces that feature carved wood as a focal point. When looking for Shabby Chic furniture, take measures to avoid bright bold colors or matching sets. Instead, try to mix and match the upholstery style with floral patterns, along with striped pillows and other accessories.

To accent your walls, you can include carved wood or metal shelves, which can be purchased in antique stores, gift shops, garage sales, and antique fairs. Again, a little paint on these items goes a long way because you will add a special touch to your dcor. For instance, you can incorporate an ornate wrought iron corner shelf and display antique collectibles or crocheted dollies for a vintage look. Furthermore, you can look for old doors, windows, mantels, garden gates, house shutters, and wrought iron, which can be used as wall hangings or even used to replace existing doors to add charm.

For lighting, you can use a floral print or solid colored fabric lamp shade for the right splash of color and display it against surfaces that are distressed. Wrought iron, wood mirrors, or picture frames with white, natural, or distressed finishes blend well in a Shabby Chic room. If you want to add a unique touch to this dcor, apply weathered paint to towel racks in the bathroom or kitchen. And lets not forget to include candleholders or a candelabra. You can give these items a distressed finish in white or ivory for that shabby chic look.

Giorgina Devereaux is the creator of AskGiorgina.com, which features questions, answers, and ideas on home decor and furniture. For more information, please visit http://www.AskGiorgina.com

Design a Spa In Your Own Bath

The hectic pace of our lives and responsibilities makes it sometimes difficult to sit back and relax. A week at "the spa" is all we need! Why not bring the spa into your home and enjoy it whenever you can! Transform your own bath, through simple interior decorating ideas, into the spa-like atmosphere you crave. When thinking of that sanctuary, think natural healthy living and relaxation. To transform your own bath, here are some tips to follow:

Go natural with your colors and accessories. Nothing says ahhhhhhh.... Like the sound of sand and surf, so incorporate those colors (soft blues and tans) in your bath. Bring in soft mossy greens and browns to anchor the color palette. Get your inspiration from the outdoors and keep the colors soothing and soft.

In accessories, keep everything neutral in creams, greens, blues, and browns. Think texture, feel, and minimalism when choosing bath accessories, such as towels. Fluffy, white towels rolled up and placed in a natural wicker basket by the side of the bath is ideal. Group bath soaps and salts together in pretty glass apothecary jars, using them as accessories. Place lotions, extra towels, and other bathroom needs behind closed doors or attractively on a shelf. Keep this space very uncluttered and clean. Well-placed flowers and green plants soften the edges and coldness of the bath and add to the spa atmosphere. Live orchids love the humidity of the bath, as do other real plants. Artificial ones that look great are certainly available also, if your thumb is not green!

Now that the stage is set, we need to add the ambiance. First, use candlelight- soy candles are fragrant and burn cleaner (good for the environment and your home.) Place numerous candles on a tray, instead of scattering them throughout the space, echoing that uncluttered feel. Do not overload your senses in this room. If the candles are fragrant, add no more scent. Some popular scents are rosewood and lavender. Soft, background music, waterfall sounds, or complete silence are relaxing and calming, and add to the ambiance. Dim the lights, or use just candlelight for a soft glow.

Enjoy the moment of quiet and sink into the tub of sudsy water. Block out the outer world. Leave the cell phone behind. Turn off the televisio1110n. The "to do" list can wait until later. This is your " spa" moment- relax and enjoy your new bathroom!

Tracey Schabel is the editor of http://www.GirlzDealz.com a website "for women by women", where you can find ideas, tips, and deals about home and lifestyle trends. Be sure to check out our website for the latest in interior decorating, green living, lifestyle trends, handpicked shopping deals, entertaining, book reviews, and much more.

Pre-Fabricated Steel Buildings

More and more construction is being done with steel in recent years, as more people learn about the many benefits of using steel vs. other construction materials. One of the many features offered when building with steel is the option to purchase a prefabricated steel building.

Prefabricated steel buildings can be anything from simple storage structures to complex steel framed office buildings. Prefabricated steel buildings cost less than most other types of buildings for a number of reasons. For example, prefabricated buildings are available along with all of their components, all ready to the assembled. Just about anyone can assemble and erect a prefabricated steel building, thus decreasing labor costs and saving time.

Use of computer-based technologies for precise designing, measuring and planning increases the accuracy of cost prediction. There are no surprises while assembling; the construction process is typically highly efficient and less subject to delays and setbacks.

Manufacturers of steel buildings take responsibility for all of the related activities, from design to construction. This makes coordination much easier, as there is no dependency on multiple suppliers for various components and services. Even the fees are comprehensive, with all the costs included and adjusted to suit the package. Having a single point of contact makes communication and coordination simpler.

Prefabricated steel buildings panels can be insulated as per requirements. The paneling is also done in such a way that the panels overlap when fitted together, leaving no openings, thus keeping the building well insulated against the external weather conditions. This insulation helps to keep the buildings warm in winter and cool in summer, thus saving on energy costs. Prefabricated buildings can also be coated with aluminum or other similar compounds as dictated by the weather conditions and the requirements of the user.

Cost effective and sturdy, prefabricated steel buildings are an attractive option for many.

Steel Buildings Info provides detailed information about commercial, pre-fabricated, and pre-engineered steel buildings, steel storage buildings, and steel building kits. Steel Buildings Info is affiliated with Business Plans by Growthink.

Bathroom Counter Top And Bathroom Vanity Countertop Choices

Bathroom Counter top choices are almost infinite it seems. With new materials and technologies your selection has not been made easier. However it has never been a better time for creativity in bathroom design, since for almost any bathroom decorating idea you may have there is certainly a countertop surface material, pattern and color to fit your needs. One factor that will determine your choice of bathroom and vanity countertop besides appearance and cost will probably be durability and maintenance. Here are some of the more popular bathroom vanity counter top surfaces you'll encounter:

Laminate Bathroom Countertops
A popular choice for years due to its versatility and affordability. Available in so many colors, patterns and textures that it's a breeze to coordinate with your other bathroom design elements like wall covering or fixtures. When installed on counters plastic laminate resists moisture superbly and is easy to maintain. Laminate is available in different grades, but basically affordable so don't buy the cheapest, get your moneys worth.

Ceramic Tile Bathroom Countertops
Impervious to water, durable and easy to clean tile bathroom countertops offer a great opportunity to bring individual style and personality to your bathroom. Available in many colors, shapes and finishes. Even hand painted. Very versatile. Don't select a fragile tile and you must use a grout sealer in areas exposed to water. Tile comes in two finishes, glazed and unglazed.

Stone and Concrete Bathroom Countertops
Granite, marble, and slate will probably be the most expensive choices for your bathroom countertop. They are have a rich, elegant appearance and are natural stone that is extremely durable. Becoming more popular are two other materials, they are limestone and concrete. Limestone has more of a textured appeal compared to granite and the other stone countertop surfaces. While concrete offers flexibility. It can be shaped, carved, inlaid with objects or colored. Though it offers many new creative possibilities concrete tends to crack easy.

Solid Surface Bathroom Countertops
Man made and very durable this synthetic made of acrylic or polyester is easily maintained. It comes in varied colors and textures, even faux stone. Solid surfacing material is used to fabricate counter tops, shower enclosures and even floors. It is not cheap, as a matter of fact it can cost almost as much as marble or granite. It is impervious to abrasions, water and dents that could occur over time. And it is easy to repair if necessary. Solid surface materials possess a lasting durability requiring minimal maintenance.

As you can see there is a counter top surface choice that should fit your maintenance requirements, decorating and bathroom design ideas as well as your budget. Regardless what your personal preferences are, your bathroom remodeling project will benefit from the flexibility of your counter top choices. Your bathroom can have a updated new stylish look that reflects your style based on your bathroom vanity countertop material choice.

Get more in depth vanity and bathrooom countertop ideas and information go to Bathroom and Vanity Countertops and Cabinets.

Also go to http://Countertops-And-Cabinets.Com which is dedicated to providing quality information on bathroom, vanity and kitchen countertops and cabinets.

Installing a Shower Pan Membrane Liner for a Custom Ceramic Tile Shower

Installing a custom ceramic tile shower in your home is something a do it yourself homeowner can do with a little upfront knowledge. The most important aspect of a successful custom ceramic tile shower installation is properly installing a shower pan membrane liner. The shower pan membrane liner is used to ensure a leak-proof shower.

Shower pan membrane liners are used to funnel any water that seeps through the floor or wall grout to the shower drain below. The shower pan membrane liner is made up of a flexible type of plastic material that sits below a bed of mortar, and the tile, in the shower floor area.

Prior to installing the shower pan membrane liner, the floor of the shower needs to be pre-sloped to ensure that the water will flow towards the shower drain assembly. The pre-slope is accomplished by applying a layer of mortar to the floor of the shower unit area. The layer of mortar is troweled in such as way as to create a gentle slope from the shower wall edges to the center of the shower where the drain resides.

Once the pre-slope mortar has cured, the flexible shower pan membrane liner can then be installed. There are a couple of types of shower pan membrane liners on the market, with each having their own benefits. With either type of membrane, the homeowner needs to form and fold the material into the base of the shower area and secure it to the sides of the shower wall frame with staples and/or nails. In addition, an opening in the membrane should be cut out to allow the adjustable shower drain assembly to slip through.

With the shower pan membrane installed, the cementitious ceramic tile backerboard can then be secured to the framed shower walls. The backerboard is a rigid material that is ideal for attaching tile in wet areas such as a shower stall.

After installing the ceramic tile backerboard, a final coat of mortar needs to be applied on top of the membrane to protect it and to provide a solid base for laying the ceramic floor tile.

With the final coat of mortar cured, the ceramic tile can then be installed in the shower.

Once the tile and grout have been installed, the shower drain assembly should be adjusted so that the drain height sits flush with the finished ceramic tile floor.

For more information on installing a shower pan membrane liner, see the Shower Pan Membrane Liner Installation EBook from HomeAdditionPlus.com. The Shower Pan Membrane Liner EBook will quickly teach you the step-by-step process for installing the shower pan membrane liner correctly. It includes instructions on framing the shower stall, pouring the pre-slope and shower base mortar, and installing the shower pan membrane liner.

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

Steps to Creating Safe Deck Railings

Railings are the most visible element of any deck. They make an instant design statement for all to see and admire from a distance and close up. Deck railings do more than add a safety feature to a deck. They establish the style and limits of the deck space itself. Local building code standards won't affect the nearly endless number of deck design choices and construction choices to be used. Railings are not necessary on all decks but when they are, usually because of the deck's height above ground level, it is important to make a wise choice as to their design and structure.

Step #1 - Deck Height:

Railings are generally required for decks over 36 inches high above ground level and for any set of stairs. However, 24 inches might be a better minimum because in today's society people are more likely to sue a homeowner in the event of a fall. All it takes is one too many drinks and no railing for an accident to occur. In many cases the injured parties who launch these lawsuits are relatives or friends who just happen to be the individuals most likely to be on your deck. It's better to be safe than sorry!

Step #2 - Railing Height:

Railings are generally 36 to 42 inches above a deck's surface. They can be as low as 30 inches or as high as 48 inches depending upon the height of the deck above ground level. The rule of thumb is: The higher the deck; the higher the railing. This is all done for safety considerations. Deck railings can have wood, vinyl or aluminum balusters as well as louvers. They can be built with solid facings that can include plywood siding, plastic panels or tempered glass. However, they need to be a safe height above the level of the deck.

Step #3 - Railing Construction:

Railings are made up of vertical posts capped and joined by a cross member laid flat. The cross member may be the same width or wider than the posts. The spacing distance between the posts depends upon the cap's size and the horizontal rail's length. For example, 4x4 posts can be spaced up to 4 feet apart under a 2x4 cap while 4x4 posts can be spaced up to 6 feet apart under a 2x6 cap.

The strongest and simplest railings are those with horizontal parts secured by bolts or screws to the outside faces of the posts. For a cleaner, more streamlined railing, the horizontals would be placed between the posts. Building codes specify the maximum space between balusters, often 4 inches. Screws and bolts are always a better choice for the construction of railings.

Railings should coordinate with the architectural style of the home in some way. This can be done in terms of materials used, detailing and connections. It is important to check with local building code bylaws to clearly determine the requirements in terms of railing height, material types, lumber sizes, distances between support posts and distances between balusters.

The important things to do in the building of deck railings are to create a railing that complements your overall deck design, to comply with local building codes and to take the time to do the job as well as possible. In no time you'll have a railing system in place on your deck that will be the envy of the neighborhood.

Richard Vande Sompel is a professional deck builder of 35 years and over 850 decks built and is the author of "How to Plan, Design and Build a Deck from Start to Finish". To Learn More About Deck Railings and Claim your 2 FREE Deck Plans, Insider Report, MP3 Audio and discover everything to know about building a deck visit: http://www.DeckBuildingRevealed.com

Building Inspections - Permits and Problems

Things to Know

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

Who are They

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

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

When Don't I need a Building Permit

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

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

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

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

The Dreaded "Task Force Inspection"

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

Construction Inspections

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

Fighting the BDI

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

The Hearing

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

Howard Bell
yourpropertypath.com

http://www.yourpropertypath.com
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Remodel Your Kitchen with Pest Control in Mind

Kitchen remodeling is high on the list of many 2237home owners' renovation plans. The reason for this is that a kitchen is the most commonly used area of the house, and it is also the one room in the house that ages faster than any other in terms of interior design. Outdated appliances or even cupboard door knobs can decrease the aesthetic appeal of a kitchen faster than outdated furniture will in any other room. Updating your kitchen can be a simple and easy task depending on what parts of your kitchen you are updating.

When you are considering a kitchen remodel, you may also want to consider implementing a pest control system in your kitchen. The reason for this is that because the kitchen is the heart of the home it also carries with it the most appealing features for pesky pests. Pests and rodents are motivated by the sensuous smells coming out of the heart of your home. Where the food is will be where the pests are. If you want to consider some kitchen remodeling, you will want to implement pest controls as a proactive means of keeping your new kitchen safe from intruding creatures.

New cupboards are an excellent way to take a kitchen from retro to contemporary in a heartbeat. Or perhaps you like the retro look and want to move backwards. You can do this too with a wide variety of color choices and styles that will meet your overall design plan. If you are installing cupboards, you can implement a simple pest control plan by adequately sealing all cracks and crevices that may occur with a new cupboard installation. Rodents and pests enjoy crevices, cracks, and small holes that give them easy access to your food. Use steel wool or insulated cement to seal up these cracks and crevices and stop them in their tracks. No hole or crevice is too small for a pest or rodent, so ensure all spaces are adequately sealed.

Pests and rodents like to use spaces under your sink to gain entry into your home. If you are installing new cupboards under your sink, leave a small cup or saucer of soda pop in your cupboard underneath the sink. The carbonization of the pop will kill the pest or rodent before they realize what has hit them. Steel wool is a good option to fill up those cracks between pipes underneath your sink as well. If you can stop them before they get in, you will not need to worry about destroying them.

If you are using plaster of paris in your kitchen remodel, consider mixing it with just a hint of chocolate powder before you conduct your plastering. Do not worry about the aesthetics as chances are you will be painting over this. But if you use this mixture in areas where pests are likely to enter, you will have a very effective pest control plan in your kitchen. This method works particularly well with mouse control. The chocolate is appealing to the mice, but the plaster makes them thirsty. They will dine on your plaster of paris and go out in search of water to quench their thirst. By this time, the plaster will expand in their systems and they will destroy themselves outside of your home.

These simple pest control plans can be implemented in any new kitchen remodel and are very cost effective at that. Stop pests from ruining your brand new kitchen. Being proactive will save you heartache and frustration in the long run.

Your kitchen is a room too! Probably the most important room. We will help you with a Kitchen Remodel or a Interior Painting Job or Pest Control if you like.

Planning Successful Home Renovations

Renovating your home is a big job. It does not matter if you are renovating a kitchen or renovating your entire house, the entire process takes a lot of planning ahead, patience and money. When you decide that it is time to renovate your home, there a few things that you need to do to make sure that your home renovations go smoothly and as planned. Here are some great secrets and tips to help you plan out and complete any home renovation project.

The Key is Planning Ahead:

Finding the secret of success when it comes to any size home rB68enovation project lies in the planning stages. In order to make sure that your renovation, whether you are doing it yourself or hiring a contractor, is successful, you will need to take the time to think the process through and plan ahead. Part of the planning phase of your home renovation project includes knowing what you want to do with the room, finding the right tools and equipment if it is a do-it-yourself project or hiring the right general contractor, and staying within your budget. When you begin to plan your home renovation project, you should sit down and make a list of the things that you want out of your room and how much you expect to pay. Sticking with your list will make your project more successful from the time it is started to the end.

Staying Within Your Budget:

Of course, the next thing you will want to do when you tackle any type of home renovation project is to carefully stay within your budget. Your budget will depend completely on what you have to spend. If you are doing the project yourself, you can often save hundreds, if not thousands of dollars. Hiring a contractor will ensure that your project is done correctly, but will add to your budget. If you find that you are going over your budget, then you can start looking at ways to save money, such as installing cheaper appliances or completing your renovation project in smaller stages. Completing your project in smaller stages is often the key to success for many homeowners that find that they have many things that they need to do to their home. If you start with the rooms that you use the most and then gradually work your way through your project, it will be a great way for you to stay within your budget. Another tip that will help you stay within budget is to work with the items that you already have. For example, if you want a new look for your kitchen, instead of replacing your cabinets, consider finishing the cabinets that you already have and adding new hardware.

It is not possible to complete our renovation projects and stay within your budget and time allotment. Many homeowners fail in their home improvement projects because they do not have the ability to plan ahead, shop wisely, and to see their project through to the end. If you find that you do need to hire a contractor to complete your work, make sure you choose wisely and find one that you can trust and one that comes highly recommended.

The free-lance writer Eric Slarkowski is particularly passionate about information on storm protection and home improvement. With his publications such as http://w327ww.replacement-windows-tips.com/basement-replacement-windows.html, the columnist improved his capability on areas related to replacing basement windows and home improvement.

Bathroom Decor - Quick Bathroom Decorating on a Budget

When seasons change, one of the most overlooked rooms in the house for updated decorating is the bathroom. Whether you want to add some oomph to your guest bath, or want to bring a spa quality to decorating a master bath, here are some quick and easy decorating tips to get your bathroom in tip top shape!

*You actually don't spend a lot of time in the bathroom, so do something special with it. Try a daring color combination or a theme room you love but wouldn't use in another space. Name your theme bathroom, then get to the paint store! Try rich jewel tones or cheery pastels, whatever fits your theme. Just make it a color you love that you've always wanted to try!

*Bump up the excitement level of your boring bath towels, and stitch an easy and quick edging to them with pretty fabric. It takes just a small amount and some simple hemming to add pretty custom details to your bath. You can also create custom bath rugs this same way, by sewing edging to all four sides of a bath towel. Be sure to sue a non skid pad underneath.

*Use pretty everyday things in a practical way in your bathroom. Creamers make great toothbrush holders, pretty sea shells make a soap dish, or roll up extra towels in a large pottery piece. Just because it's the bathroom, don't overlook small details and opportunities to bring beauty into your life.

*Afraid to hang pictures in a bathroom? Pick up inexpensive frames from the dollar shop, and fill them with pages from garden catalogs. Hang them in groupings in the bath for a gorgeous accent. If water eventually damages the pictures, just remove them and insert new ones. After all, they were free!

*In a guest bath, make your visitors feel pampered by adding a pretty tray full of bath items such as lotions, tissue, and perfumed soaps. Create a tray on a budget by taking an old picture frame, giving it a good coat of paint to blend with your baths dcor, then instead of a picture, add a piece of fabric to the frame for elegance. Instant pretty tray, and you probably had everything your need already!

*Use glass paints and faux leading strips to create a stained glass look on that ugly and plain bathroom mirror. You can even add wood trim around the edges of the mirror to give a framed mirror effect. No more ugly builders mirrors!

Take a weekend and create pretty bathroom dcor for yourself or your visitors. Its quick and easy to make small changes that make a huge difference in decorating a bathroom!

Kathy Wilson is an author, home decorating columnist for LifetimeTv.com, and editor of several popular home and garden websites. For hundreds of free do it yourself home and garden ideas, please visit her websites now at http://www.TheBudgetDecorator.com, and http://www.TheGardenGlove.com . Also visit her work at home site at http://www.Women-on-the-Net.com, where ANY woman can learn to make money on the internet!

The Need for Roof Flashing

A roof is an integral part of any building or home. All of us want our roofs to look great with little or no maintenance. No one wants to deal with leakages and water seepage. To prevent leaks and seepage of water in your roof it is very important to install roof flashing. In fact many contractors describe roof flashing as their final form of defense against penetration of water.

Flashings are made of different types of materials. They can be composed of aluminum or galvanized metal. Aluminum seems to a much popular choice amongst homemakers because of the fact that it does not rust easily. Aluminum is also preferred as the material for roof flashing because it can be easily bent into desired shape and size.

It is pretty easy to use a flashing system. Roof flashings are required on all the places on your roof where various surfaces meet together. It is used at roof peaks, dormers, vents, edges, skylights and other such places. It is important to install roof flashing in such places and seal them to ensure that no leaks are developed to cause damage to your building.

Ideally speaking you must install roof flashing at all places where there is any type of penetration in the roof or where two different surfaces meet. There are different types of roof flashings to suit different needs. As for example, we use v-shaped flashing for valleys into a roofline. It is also used along the peaks of roof. Generally, roof flashing is installed with the help of nails on the roof. Apart from roof flashing you also need to use other kinds and layers of sealants and protection against leakage and water seepage. This will ensure that your roof is completely waterproof.

Proper Roof Flashing

Roof flashings are secured with the help of nails. With the passage of time, the nails might get loose and may even come off. But you need not worry, as this requires only minor service and repair. Within no time your roof flashing can be secured tightly back into its appropriate pace. Thus roof flashings are quit easy to handle and require very less maintenance.

Aluminum roof flashings being a widely accepted choice can be easily bought from your local hardware or home improvement store. It is very easy to bend them in shape and size as and when needed. The quality of aluminum roof flashing is very important, especially when used in places around vents, skylights or around any other such unusual and odd shapes. It is because of this versatility of aluminum that it is the preferred choice of material for installing roof flashing.

There is another place where it is very important to install roof flashing. That place is along the bottom edge of roof, also known as the drip edge. Flashing is essential here to prevent moisture and water from seeping under roofing material edge. If water does go through, then it can spread around the under-layment and shingles, and cause a lot of damage. During winter, the edge area also has a tendency to accumulate ice and snow. Such a situation is called as formation of ice dam. Such a situation should be avoided and can be prevented by installing a two part edge flashing. You also need to install a heating strip over the roof edge.

Another very significant note that must be kept in mind while installing roof flashing is that to have the best possible results, always install it in co-ordination with other protective sealant sand layers. This will surely ensure a leak free roof for years to come.

As Long Island, LI Roofing Contractors, and Northern Virginia Roofing contractors we take great pride in maintaining customer satisfaction for all types of new roof installation and roof repair work for residential and commercial roofing accounts.

Add A Touch Of Class To Your Bathroom When Modernizing

A Whirlpool tub offers a distinctive experience, from a relaxing, restorative soak to the stimulating rush of whitewater rapids. The Whirpool will stimulate your muscles causing relaxing sensations all throughout your body and invigorating you as you soak. Whirlpool tubs are made with designer luxury in mind; slip off your robe and into a hot tub of relaxation and tranquility.

The bathroom of today is a designer paradise with remote controlled shower enclosures that have a built in steam and sauna as well as a radio and seat to keep you relaxed, even down to the mirrors and tiles that we accessorise our bathrooms with but the new found capability of being able to turn a what used to be a bath into a household massage centre has given tubs a leading role in new and updated bathrooms. It's now even possible to get retro look hard wearing claw foot Whirlpools with an air or jetted whirlpool system with an antique look but with modern features. Look out for a tub with double head rests so you and your partner can maximize the relaxation your whirlpool experience has to offer, leaving the troubles of the world behind and soaking with your partner.

As with most things in life, the more popular things become prices start to fall due to competition 5B4from manufacturers and the Whirpool tub market is no exception. Lower prices are helping put whirlpools in more remodeling plans as they are now getting more and more affordable. Take a tour of any plumbers supply store and see for yourself the fine detail and special care we put into each and every whirlpool tub on the market, designer elegance at its best. Costs have dropped so much many people now install a tub in their en-suite bathroom as well as master bathroom.

Be careful what additives that you put in the water of your tub as some products are not designed to go into Whirpool tubs, these can leave residue in the pipes of your tub and reduce the performance over a period of time, and you don't want to spoil the distinctive experiences that your Whirpool can offer you. If you do find that over time the performance of your tub diminishes you can clean the system by flushing it out with a specially formulated product.

Whirlpool tubs jet warm water, which is heated by a whirlpool tub heater to keep the water at a constant temperature, you don't want to be relaxing in a whirlpool full of luke warm water, this means you can spend as long as you like in the tub before getting out and putting on your bathrobe, ready to relax for the evening. Whirpool tubs are usually made of high density acrylic to stop them from be5AEnding or mis -shaping over a period of time. Most Whirpool tubs nowadays come complete with a standard pump to give you a set up and go product with no need to be buying add on's.

So maybe that Whirlpool tub isn't such a crazy idea as you maybe thought it was, imagine after a long hard day at the office being able to soak away the stress and strain of the day, without breaking the bank.

I try to pass on my musings on life and experiences in a way that people may find interesting to read.
Whirlpool Tubs
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You may not always agree with my writings but I hope to inform.
Harwood E Woodpecker

DYI Guide On How To Paint Aluminium Sidings

This article is a Do It Yourself Guide on how to paint Aluminium Sidings. It gives a detailed step by step guide. It is a must read for people planning to take up this project. You have purchased an old house and you observe that house is covered with aluminium painting. The siding is in perfect shape but its factory painted finish has faded. But do not fear, Aluminium Siding can be repainted.

A Step by Step Guide to Painting Aluminium Siding

One can repaint old aluminum rather than replaced. Here's the process

1) First check whether the siding is aluminum or galvanized steel. Galvanized steel should not be painted with any oil based paint; some paint manufacturers specify latex only over steel. Notice that the Galvanized steel will have a black siding. But remember that before painting the aluminium surface, it needs to be dry. If painting is done under wet conditions, the paint will not be consistent and it may have a chemical reaction and end up corroding the painting aluminium siding. In this way the painting and aluminium siding will last longer and you won't need much money in repairs.

2) Use any lime scale/mineral deposit/hard water stain remover to clean the aluminum by applying it .Thereafter agitate the surface with a brush or sponge and finally rinse it water.

3) If the surface is in poor condition such as peeling or chalking, you need to primer coat. Use a good oil based exterior primer. The use of an oil-based primer is preferred over a latex primer because the later generally contain ammonia, which reacts over time with aluminum to form microscopic gas bubbles, leading to premature failure of the primer (and hence, paint) surface.

4) Remember that a light sanding is helpful before applying the final finish coat on the painting and aluminium siding. Sand with a 150 grit sandpaper. You don't need to worry about using a sand paper if you are coating the painting aluminium siding with a latex paint

5) Add a finish coat of acrylic latex. Use a low luster or satin finish. It looks more like the factory finish. For a real smooth job, use an airless sprayer with a .017 gun tip.496 Always remember not to apply by exposing in direct sunlight which may lessen the amount of time for paint to be on surface. Let it dry after finishing

You can rent a professional machine in most areas.

You can also find more info on traditional wood siding and siding hardboard siding. Homesidingreview.com is a comprehensive resource to know more about home siding review.

Is a Sauna Right for Your Home?

Stress is quickly becoming a part of today's fast-paced life. All the pressures you encountered at work, in school, and elsewhere, are better off released from your body. And total relaxation coming from a good sauna experience is what you really need.

But then again because of people's busy lifestyle, finding time to go to a sauna salon becomes harder each day. Well, if you can't go to the sauna, why not let the sauna come to you? There are a lot of modern home saunas a16B6vailable today that can be installed conveniently in one of the available rooms of your house.

The benefits of saunas are not only for the body's total relaxation. It has many health benefits as well. Regular sauna sessions are known to improve a person's cardiovascular health and immune system. A lot of skin disorders are treated by a sauna because it helps in flushing out toxic substances from the body through sweating.

But one of the notable benefits of sauna is in the area of weight loss. Several people can attest that sauna had helped them cut off inches and lose some pounds. Sauna works by melting body fats and turning them into sweat. Also, it is known to speed up one's metabolism, which is very important to ensure the normal function of all body processes.

Home sauna kits can be easy to install. And not much space is required. It can be placed somewhere in the bathroom, or even inside the bathroom closet. But if you have an extra room in the house, preferably adjacent the bathroom, you can join the two together for a real spa experience.

Modern home sauna kits are available in a ready-to-assemble package. For those who can afford it, custom-built sauna baths are the way to go. By custom building, you can specifically design the whole room, considering the space you have, and use the equipments of your choice.

The heat source is the most important element of a sauna. And you have different options. Wood fired heaters are the most popular choice among families who prefers a Finnish-style sauna room. Then there are electric heaters too, which can conveniently be plugged to a regular power outlet. Gas heaters are also used.

So if you need to enjoy a warm, relaxing treat anytime you feel like it, install a sauna right inside your homes. And you will be living healthily and calmly from then on.

Thomas Oak writes articles for http://www.hot-sauna.com/ if you are in the market for a new sauna stop and take a look at all of the latest advancements and information on new saunas and sauna kits for your home.

Changing a Toilet Wax Ring

If there is water slowly leaking around the base of your toilet, or you constantly smell a foul odor in your bathroom chances are the toilet wax ring has begun to fail and it is time for it to be replaced.

A toilet wax ring is pretty much described by its name. It is a 1 to 2 inch thick ring of wax, frequently found surrounding a plastic funnel. The toilet wax ring works by forming a water/air tight seal between the base of the porcelain toilet base and the toilet flange (plastic or cast iron).

If a toilet rocks when it is sat upon, over time the toilet wax ring will breakdown and fail. This failure manifests itself in the formation of small water and odor leaks around the base of the toilet. If left unchecked, damage could occur to the bathroom floor and unsafe sewer gasses may build up in the home.

A new toilet wax ring should also be replaced any time a toilet is removed (e.g. during the installation of a new bathroom floor).

Replacing a toilet wax ring is easy to do and can be done by the do it yourself homeowner with a little knowledge and some preparation. Replacing a toilet wax ring can be done in about 1 hour assuming there are no extenuating circumstances.

The basic ste16D0ps required to change a toilet wax ring begin with turning off the water supply line and emptying the tank and bowl of water. The supply line also needs to be disconnected from the toilet.

Next the anchor nuts, secured to the Hold-Down bolts, need to be unscrewed.

The toilet is then lifted off the toilet flange and turned over.

The old toilet wax ring can then be scraped and removed off the base of the toilet, and the floor can be cleaned of any old wax ring residue.

The new toilet wax ring is then pressed onto the base of the toilet and the toilet is then reseated onto the toilet flange.

The anchor nuts are then re-screwed back onto the Hold-down bolts and the supply line reconnected.

The water supply line to the toilet can then be turned back on and the toilet is back in business.

For more help on changing a toilet wax ring see the Changing a Toilet Wax Ring EBook from HomeAdditionPlus.com. The Changing a Toilet Wax Ring EBook will quickly explain to you in detail the step-by-step process for changing the wax ring on a toilet and includes how-to pictures for every key step in the process.

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

Remodeling Your Basement

The American family is requiring more and more space to spread out. Basements fill this need and add value at the same time. If you're lucky enough to have one, you are ahead of the game in terms of resale value.

But, what if it's unfinished or you want to remodel it? Following are four things to consider when taking on a basement remodeling project to get the most value for your money.

Basement Remodeling:

The Proper Use of the Space One of the very first things you want to consider is what kind of basement remodeling project it's going to be. Are you putting in a home5B4 gym, a media room, an in-law suite, a game room, etc.?

To properly answer this question, it's important to figure out your family dynamic, eg:

• Do you often have stay-over visitors who have to sleep on the pull-out couch (in-law suite); or
• Do you work out a lot and wish you could give up the commute and the membership fees to your gym (home gym); or
• Are you starting a new business and need a home office separate from the rest of the house (media room/office).

This is what is meant by figuring out your family dynamic.

Basement Remodeling Costs

Once you decide on the use of the space, figuring out how much your basement remodeling project is going to cost is a simply matter of getting quotes from several contractors.

When remodeling your basement, you can save some money by tackling some of the simpler projects yourself, eg, hanging sheetrock and drywall (if your basement is unfinished); painting; and installing basic cabinetry and sinks.

You can call in professionals to handle things like electricity, waterproofing and plumbing.

When you are contacting basement remodeling contractors for quotes, make a list of things you absolutely want them to handle. Each one is different, so check several for the best price.

You may want to get quotes on things like electrical wiring, plumbing, painting, ventilation systems, insulation588, waterproofing, floor installation choices, etc.

Basement Remodeling and Resell Value

According to a 2006 annual cost vs. value report by RemodelingOnline, the average cost for finishing a basement ran about $51,000. But, you recoup 90% of that upon resale. So, it's an investment worth making.

Basement Remodeling and Length of Time in the Home

As cited above, basement remodeling is not cheap, but is well worth the investment. This comes with one major caveat: how long you plan to stay in the home.

If you plan to sell, make sure you will recoup the money you spent on your basement remodeling project. While it's easy to recoup $1,000 spent on landscaping, it takes a steady, strong real estate market to recoup $50,000 (if you spend the average).

If you plan to move within the next 3, 5 or 7 years, ask yourself is a basement remodeling project is financially prudent.

All Around the Home is an online home improvement contractor directory, where homeowners can search for contractors by region and specialty like basement remodeling Fix the Home is a website where homeowners can get more information on all types of home improvement projects like remodeling at 297http://www.fixthehome.com/cat/remodeling/topics/basement/

Clawfoot Bathtubs - A Classic Touch in Your Own Home

Flat TV's, contemporary art, remote controlled curtains, and all things modern can be found everywhere in a typical American home. They may be pleasing to own but too much of it can make your house too "modern" to look at and sometimes dull and boring.

You may remember the times when simple things were beautiful to look at. Today, many people are considering adding a touch of history in their homes. The warmth and homey look of a home isn't found in modern appliances and fixtures. Even bathroom fixtures are now integrated with state-of-the-art technology. Home bathtubs are integrated with personal Jacuzzis with a large plasma TV and a floating remote control. These things can be great but it just lacks that classical, homey look that a home should have.

Whenever you visit your grand parent's house, you will notice the inviting look of a simple yet very classic look inside their homes. No plasma television, no remote controlled curtains, simple kitchen fixtures and those great cookie jars. You may even notice that their bathroom is equipped with simple yet attractive fixtures.

Even the bathtub has its traditional look. If you want this in your own home, you may try and consider buying a clawfoot bathtub. A clawfoot bathtub is very popular for people who want to have that classic American look in their bathroom. It is very simple in design and very pleasing to look at.

There are different styles in a clawfoot bathtub. You should consider choosing one that will compliment your bathroom more. There are clawfoot bathtubs that are made from cast iron or acrylic. The style also varies from roll top, dual and dual slipper. You can also choose from different kinds of feet for your clawfoot bathtub like a ball & claw, lion paw, imperial pedestal and skirt.

Choosing what kind of clawfoot bathtub you want for your home is up to you. Basically, here are the things you should know about the two different kinds of materials used in the clawfoot bathtub.

If you are a strict traditionalist and want a clawfoot bathtub to have that original look, you may want to consider having a cast iron clawfoot bathtub. These bathtubs can be painted and repainted to match the dcor in your bathroom. Cast iron clawfoot bathtubs are heavy and are not suited for people with bathrooms in the second floor of their house. And, since it is metal, it will not retain heat too long. One advantage of cast iron clawfoot bathtubs is that it can last a long time.

On the other hand, the acrylic clawfoot tubs are light weight and are easier to move and install. It is also perfect for upper story baths because of its weight. Acrylic clawfoot bathtubs are good insulators that can keep your water warm longer.

One disadvantage of acrylic is that it will break down if strong cleaning chemicals are used, like acetate.

You can also install different kinds of faucets for your clawfoot bathtub. Try experimenting or think about what designs you want your faucets to be in your clawfoot bathtub.

If you want your home to have that classical touch, you can start redecorating it in your bathroom. Having a clawfoot bathtub installed in your bathroom can have a pleasing effect with the things around it. With a clawfoot bathtub, you will surely have an enjoyable and relaxing experience while you are bathing.

Claire Bowes is a successful freelance writer and owner of Clawfoot Bathtubs where you will find further tips to spruce up your bathtub.

Picking The Best Bathroom Flooring

There are two considerations when it comes to flooring (as with many choices that you have to make in your bathroom renovation pro1C4Fject). Can we describe them as style and substance to borrow from the old aphorism. Do you want your floor to be all style and no substance, all substance and no style or a bit of an all rounder. An all rounder is the obvious response but you may have other things in the room that you want to set the style of the room, like an elaborate statue, modern vanity units or an unusual whirlpool tub. In this case you want a functional flooring that helps to show off these features. If you have no other features that you want to show off then maybe your flooring can be super stylish or have an elaborate pattern and be the main feature of the room. Of course these choices come down to your personal likes and your budget. This article will examine some considerations when picking the best bathroom flooring.

In terms of cost tiling is probably the most expensive flooring. Then comes laminates and vinyl. Some people use carpet in their bathrooms but this is generally going out of fashion as it is harder to clean and doesn't really react very well to moisture. It pays to shop around either physically or on the internet for good deals for these types of materials. Often there will be an end of line material that is going cheap so you may end up getting a cheaper tile flooring that may be a few years old than the latest vinyl patterns. If you do this however, ensure that there is enough of this material to cover your bathroom (with a few spare tiles for any mishaps during the installation).

Another consideration with bathroom flooring is who will install the flooring. Whilst it is a good learning experience to lay the bathroom flooring you probably don't want to learn this skill on a super expensive Italian ceramic tiling that costs $20 a square foot. You probably want to hire a professional or even the person that sold you the tiling to install it. If you are installing a vinyl tiling or sheeting then this is relatively inexpensive and could be a good project to get your feet wet. This all comes down to cost in the end.

Ceramic tiling looks great and is the best way to make a statement in your bathroom. This is your all style material however it has many practical qualities. It is extremely durable and will last a lifetime.

Laminate is a fairly new material in the bathroom (and homes in general). It is cheaper than tiling and can come in some impressive designs, like pine flooring or a stone effect. It is easy to install. It comes with an underlay that gives it a sense of give and dampens any noise when you walk on it.

Vinyl comes in sheets or tiles. Vinyl sheeting is probably the cheapest and easiest to install. It is a great material to use for DIY projects. This is because you can make mistakes and it won't cost too much. Vinyl is also durable but will wear out quicker than the other materials. It is also liable for fad in terms of color and pattern over time.

If you want to breathe new life into your home or are simply looking for a little inspiration then visit http://www.finehomeideas.com The site gives tips and advice for home renovation and interior design, including a review of bamboo flooring and tips for laying bathroom tiles. Adrian Whittle writes about ideas for making your home special.

Glass Tiles For Your Kitchen - Clean And Clear

Glass tiles are perfect for your kitchen especially if you're thinking of having a contemporary or modern look. These provide a very clean and sleek look that will surely bring in lots of light into the area. Glass tiles are durable as well and are not very hard to maintain aside from what most people would think. Here are some design tips when using glass tiles.

There are different types of glass tiles and colors can vary from transparent to colored opaque. These acquire colors through mixed pigments in molten glass during manufacturing. The color and shade permeate within the tiles' body. During the firing method, a layer of pigment is fused to the tiles' surface. As a result, colors of them are permanent and well-protected against moisture. Color is generally uniform among batches of glass tiles. Clear glass tiles do not use any pigments and are simply molten then fired.

Glass tiles have many advantages. It is moisture-proof which makes it very useful and sturdy in the kitchen. It works best and is most commonly used in walls where it allows light to enter the area without heat.

It is very aesthetic as well considering the variety of colors so people usually create mosaics which serve as a centerpiece of the kitchen. It is good both indoors and outdoors and with its non-permeable quality, endures moisture, heat, fire and ultraviolet rays. By installing glass tiles, other surrounding structures are protected against instant temperature changes.

Smalti is a type of glass tile made up of melted silica with sodium. Some metals and metal oxides are used to stabilize the material before it is fired and hand-cut. Fused glass tiles are usually translucent in nature with a visible opaque layer. Sintered ones usually come in 1 to 3 square feet measurement. It is manufactured by pressing glass powder then heating to fuse particles. Terrazzo glass tiles involve a cast method using glass and concrete amalgam. Cast tiles have a layered appearance created by putting glass chunks into a mold. Slumped glass has a contoured or curved appearance.

For ideas on kitchen tile design, visit http://www.kitchentile101.com

Using Christmas Tree Lights

For many children, sitting in front of the Christmas tree with the Christmas tree lights twinkling is a daily hobby during the holiday season. Many of us remember spending long moments doing just that, fascinated throughout. By turning off all light in the room and lighting just the tree, it will create a beautiful, peaceful glow for the entire space. With perhaps some Christmas music playing in the background, it quickly would become a favorite way to spend your day.

Memories As A Child

As a child, you may have had fond memories associated with the Christmas tree, such as helping to get it straight in the stand and then taking care of it. Perhaps it was your mother that would place Christmas tree lights throughout the branches, so that each one would hold onto the branch just right so that the cords were hidden. With Christmas carols playing in the background, it creates a lasting memory that can only be perfectly honored by replaying it each year. Once the lights are placed on the tree, next will come the beautiful ornaments, many of them ornaments that were used year after year; some crystal, some glass, some beautiful handmade pieces. As they are added the ornaments danced in the Christmas tree lights. The tree looks beautiful.

More Than The Tree

Although Christmas tree lights are mainly used for the tree itself, they5B4 do have decorating abilities for other locations around the home. For example, you can use them to decorate the banister or wrap the cords along a favorite mirror. You can use the Christmas tree lights on any fixtures that it is safe to use on. When you do, you allow those items to fit in the Christmas themed home, giving it more character and festive attention. Use the lights as they fit throughout your home.

While using Christmas tree lights on the actual Christmas tree is the normal thing to do, it is also a warm and welcoming way to greet people by placing them throughout the home. Using Christmas tree lights to decorate your home is something that you can learn to do and then pass on to your children. Throughout the process of decorating the home together, you will quickly find yourself creating traditions that will be cherished for years to come. Use Christmas tree lights to enhance and enamor your home to make it the most beautiful for the holidays.

Adam Peters enjoys writing about design for http://www.home-decorating-reviews.com A focused website that offers the best articles on christmas tree home decor and design.

Steel Buildings - Understanding the Steel Building Industry

The rising trend

Increased population, expanded businesses, advanced technological processes leading to an insatiable demand for quality, attractive and low-maintenance cost buildings have made the world extol and accept the steel building industry. Building steel buildings from concert halls to hospitals to schools to churches is the new trend in todays day and age.

Why steel?

Steel buildings have numerous advantages over the more conventional sort of buildings and thus are the preferred choice:

* Sturdy: Steel buildings are not only stronger than others buildings, like that of wood, but also more economical. Dimensions noted and requirements taken care of; steel structures are shipped where wanted when they are fully constructed, hence saving time, labor cost and energy over on-site constructions.

* Utility: Compared to the conventional mediums of other building material, the wastage in the case of steel is minimal if not nil. The heavy amounts of wastage in materials such as wood is excoriated by all in sharp contrast to steel where ALL amounts of steel used can be recycled easily.

* Need: With steel buildings, another factor to be taken into account is that steel buildings can be designed according to requirements. To take an example, high ceilings needed in churches or the height to accommodate big machinery in factories is easily arranged with steel buildings where machine construction ensures fulfillment of exact needs.

What to take care about?

All advantages of steel building may be disparaged by a single unwise decision. It is prudent to be careful about certain things beforehand and be invulnerable instead of falling prey to money-centric predators:

* Price: Needs and budget given a thought, one must not be driven by the price alone when getting a steel building built. Steel building industry has its own share of scam artists who can make you an unsuspecting victim of a steel building rip-off. Make sure that you check the history of the company and compare prices of the steel being offered. As you may falsely believe, all steel is NOT same. Hiring a professional steel supplier is a sensible choice to make.

* Requirements: Ask questions and minute details and dont settle for anything but the best. In most cases, steel skeletons are directly transported to the location decided making it indispensable for you to know exactly what you want beforehand. The height of building for an office, the number and type of doors at residence, the mapping of a factory before order, according to the machinery to be installed are common examples.

* Professionals: When you want the best, make sure you get the best professionals. Any pre-deposits or advance money should be made after contract-signing. Care needs to be taken to see that all aspects covered are those already discussed and decided. If any company offers a-ready-to-deliver building or something at an out of the way discount or shying away from paperwork; make sure you are not foisted a deal.

Mike Zhmudikov is a professional copywriter and seo consultant.

What Does It Cost To Build A Home In Ocala

Marion County, where the city of Ocala is located, has seen burgeoning growth, and it continues to rapidly rise till the present day, and is dramatically changing the face of the county. Nowhere is that more evident than on State Road 200, where commercial and residential development moved at a fever pitch. In 1995, Ocala was named the fifth best place to live in the U.S. by Money magazine.

The city was named an All-America City earlier in the year, and moved up in the national rankings from 78th place in 1994. It was also named the second best mid-sized metropolitan area in the nation and the second best city in the South. The city offers investors with not just lovely horse farms and estates, which Ocala is famous for, but also an assortment of industries and employment opportunities ranging from electronics, aerospace development, manufacturing, real estate and tourism.

Affordable Housing

Marion County, as well as Ocala, offers several affordable housing programs for income-eligible households. The County provides medium-income families a State Housing Initiative Partnership or SHIP, and the Community Development Block Grant or CDBG for home purchase or rehabilitation outside of the city limits.

In Ocala, the CDBG Housing Rehabilitation Program, which utilizes federal funds, along with the s5B4tate-funded SHIP program is offered to income eligible residents who wish to buy homes within the city limits. Each year, several home events are also hosted by the city, expose potential buyers to the area's developers.

Two of the city's major annual events are the annual spring Parade of Homes and the Fall Showcase of Homes. The Marion County Building Industry Association sponsors both events. Homes usually range from the more affordable end of just over $100,000 to those considered in the luxury price range of over $500,000.

Tips For Ocala Home-seekers

The local local realtors association is a good first step in looking for a nice home. Most local brokers suggest stopping by the local Chamber of Commerce for those new to the area and looking for a house. They note that a wealth of information is available to help make the search easier. In addition to contacting a local property broker of choice and getting referrals from peers, they also suggest getting in the car and driving around town, to better learn the area.

For the second quarter of 2007, the median prices of homes in Marion County was pegged at $170,900, which represents a slight jump from $169,500 for the same period in 2006. The National Association of Realtors reported a U.S. median home price of $223,800 for the second quarter of 2007 compared to $227,100 in 2006. Statewide, the median price for the period was $221,200, down from $243,300 in 2005A56.

Most major housing indicators show the market in Ocala is leaning toward the area of being a buyer's market. Housing analysts say this is being driven by the increasing inventory of both new and existing homes. During 2006-2007, Marion County reported 2,698 permits for construction of single-family homes, which is down from 6,355 in the 2005-2006 fiscal year.

As for construction of multi-family homes, which include condos, town homes and apartments, there was a slight increase in 2007 with 48 permits versus 37 permits in 2006.

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Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Standing seam metal roofing should be a preferable choice when you think of metal roofing of your building or house because it has so much to offer with an economical price. Standing seam metal roofing is very tough and durable roofing solution. Standing seam metal roofing almost last as long as the lifetime of the building itself. It doesnt just end here. Standing seam metal roofing is very beautiful and catchy than any other roofing solution. Hence standing seam metal roofing provides toughness of the metal with economical price and appealing appearance.

Installation Process of the Standing Seam Metal Roofing

The installation process takes a couple of days. It is a difficult process therefore it is better to hire the professional contractors for the job. The construction is done in different metal panels that run vertically down the roof. Installation is done in such a manner that water can sweep down the roof without any difficulty. Therefore you wont have to worry about any leakage in the roof.

Another good thing about this kind of metal roofing is that they can be customized in such a way that when the metal is cut in the factory, it is done with keeping in mind the requirements of the building where it is going to be installed.

Visual Look of the Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Standing seam metal roofing enjoys the fact that it is completely customizable with all the available colors that are offered in metal roofing and many kinds of metals like stainless steel, copper, and aluminum. The thing that distinguishes standing seam metal roofing from other metal roofing is that the way in which it is installed, it looks very beautiful on any building with the fact it carries all the properties other metal roofing solutions have.

Professional contractors should be hired in order to get the satisfaction of the quality of the work because this is a very tricky job to be done personally.

Standing seam metal roofing is simply the best solution if you are either installing the new roof or reroofing your building. It has so many advantages like it is corrosion resistant, tough, durable, non-combustible works in all kinds of weathers, fully customizable with many color paints and metals, and its metal can be cut according to the precise requirements of the building where it is going to be installed.

Therefore if you are looking to install the new roof for your building, think about standing seam metal roofing. It is optimum choice with the least cost and lifetime of care free satisfaction.

You can also find more info on sheet metal and structural metal roofing. Homeroofinghelp.com is a comprehensive resource to known about metal roofing.