Add Shower Curtains to Your Bath Decor for Lasting Beauty

Shower curtains are probably the most visible part of your bathroom decor. They can be seen from every corner of the room and are also usually the largest hanging item. They line your tub, protect your floor from splashed water, and give you a sense of privacy while bathing. So it makes sense to choose your shower curtains wisely. Use the guide below to find just the right shower curtains for your bathroom.

Choose by Style, Colors, and Patterns

Shower curtains can match your decor in several ways. Your bathroom may follow a certain theme such as dolphins, fish, birds, flowers, and even more dramatic effects such as giraffes or tigers! The shower curtains can match your bathroom's theme. For added beauty, choose a shower curtain liner that's a solid color. This will bring out the themed curtain even more.

If your bathroom is decorated in colors rather than a certain theme, choose shower curtains that match or complement those colors. Some color combinations to consider are light (or mint green) and white, burgundy and beige variations or cinnamon colors, red and white or red and black, blue with light mauve, yellow with pastels, or dark green with a mix of floral patterns including burgundy, green, blue, and yellow flowers.

If you have a window curtain in your bathroom, you can also match your shower curtain to your window curtain. This causes all other colors and patterns to fall into place.

Consider Practicality

If decorating a children's bathroom, consider a simple vinyl or plastic curtain that offers a fun and playful theme. For a formal bathroom, choose cotton, silk, or linen with a PVC vinyl or fabric liner. Choose a shower curtain that's durable and can easily be cleaned. Check for good stitching and grommets (reinforcements for the ring holes) that are rustproof.

To simplify things, you can now choose shower curtain liners that are very easy to remove for cleaning. There are zip-off shower curtain liners that zip on and off just below the rings for clean85Cing and can be washed in the washing machine. These easy-to-remove shower curtain liners save you time if you're always in a hurry when cleaning.

Shower Curtain Rods and Rings

Be sure to choose shower curtain rods and rings that enhance your decor, especially in a formal bathroom. Detailed shower curtain rings will stand out to your guests and add beauty to your curtains and tub. The rod should be made of materials that will not rust or peel. Both the rod and rings should be strong enough to hold your shower curtains.

To increase the "space" in your bathtub, use curved rods that come out and around from the tub. These are lovely and give you plenty of elbowroom!

Once you decide on colors and styles for your bathroom, you're ready to shop for shower curtains. You can compare styles and even buy shower curtains online from your own personal computer. There are many colors and styles as well as easy-to-remove shower curtain liners that make decorating and cleaning a breeze. Give your bath decor the look and feel you want today!

Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web. Learn more about Shower Curtain Buying Guide or Majon's Home and Garden directory.

The Written Contract - 9 Important Items That Every Homeowner Must Include!

Congratulations! You are now finally ready to begin that long-awaited project. You have been patient, planned your project, done your research, and located an awesome contractor who will become a part of your family for the next few weeks. Once you have chosen a contractor no work should begin on your home until you have received, reviewed, and signed a written contract. The written contract should spell out in detail exactly what will take place before, during, and after your project is complete. You need to be sure that everyone involved is thinking, talking, and working on the same page.

What is a Written Contract?

In dealing with home construction projects, a written contract is a legally binding document between you, the homeowner, and the contractor you hire. It specifies the work to be completed, the amount of money to be paid for the work, and the separate responsibilities that both you and the contractor must fulfill. A written contract is needed to ensure that all parties involved understand their obligations and to make sure that nothing is left open to an individual's interpretation. The written contract will also protect the homeowner against a dishonest contractor or one who does poor quality work. It also protects contractors and ensures that they will be paid in a timely manner. A contract is also the best tool for settling disagreements if things should go wrong and end up in a legal dispute. In short, do not ever start a project without protecting yourself and your home.

Minimum Home Construction/Repair Written Contract Requirements

Many states, by law, have specific minimum requirements for home construction written contracts...read and understand them! These requirements are often found on state or attorney general websites. In Maine, any home construction or repair project totaling more than $3,000 in materials or labor must be accompanied by a signed, written contract. By failing to use a written contract, as noted above, Maine contractors can place themselves in a position to commit an Unfair Trade Practice.

Note: Many written contract laws are not inflexible. A certain section of the state law may allow the contractor and the homeowner to agree to exempt themselves from the law in part or even entirely. However, in order to properly qualify for an exemption, the contractor must specifically inform the homeowner of the homeowner's rights under this law.

Below are 9 important items that should be in every written contract:

1. Names of Both Parties: This should be obvious but isn't always the case. The name, address and phone number of both the contractor and the homeowner is an absolute necessity.

2. Location: This is the physical address of the property upon which the construction work is to be done. So simple yet often ignored. Don't let this come back to haunt you.

3. Work Dates: This is the date the project will start and the estimated date of completion. Either or both of these dates may be changed if work cannot begin or end due to circumstances beyond the control of the contractor. This needs to be agreed to in writing and signed by both parties. This helps eliminate a contractor taking a month to do a project that should be completed in a week.

4. Contract Price: This is the total contract price including all costs to be incurred in the proper coB68mpletion of the project. A contract based on a "cost-plus" formula, which is the agreed upon price and an estimate of the cost of labor and materials, needs to be handled in its own way.

5. Payment: This is the method of payment, with the initial down payment being limited to no more than what the state law allows at that time. Many contracts include a down payment and then a percentage of the remaining cost is paid as the project continues. In Maine, the down payment is limited to one-third of the total project cost, unless waived and agreed upon by the homeowner and contractor.

6. Description of the Work: This is a general description of the work to be completed by the contractor and materials to be used. If the homeowner requests specific materials or products then it is advised that they be spelled out in the contract to avoid confusion.

7. Warranty: A warranty statement should state that the contractor ensures that his work will be free from faulty materials, constructed according to the standards of the state and/or local building code, and constructed in a skillful manner and fit for habitation or appropriate use.

8. Resolution of Disputes: This is a statement that allows the homeowner and contractor the option of resolving contract disputes using select methods. Potential options are:

Binding arbitration - an arbitrator is agreed upon and assigned to make any final decisions.

Nonbinding arbitration - either party can chose to ignore the arbitrator's decision and proceed with a lawsuit, if necessary.

Mediation - both parties agree to allow a mediator to help resolve their differences.

9. Change orders: A change order is a written agreement that both parties sign when any change is made to the original written contract.

Other provisions the homeowner might want to consider adding to the written contract:

Lien releases to ensure that you are not held liable for any third-party claims of nonpayment.

Details pertaining to access to your home, care of the premises, phone and bathroom use, cleanup, and trash removal. Daily start and stop times (unless you want them there for breakfast and to tuck you in at night).

Information on who will obtain and pay for necessary permits and other approvals.

Once presented with a written contract take the necessary time to read it thoroughly and ask questions if you don't understand something. Make sure everything you requested is on the contract BEFORE you sign it. And finally, NEVER sign a partially completed or blank contract!

Paul Lawrence has owned and operated Home Project Partners, a free Maine-based contractor referral service, since 2002. He helps bring homeowners together with re4E4liable, quality-conscious, pre-screened home contractors skilled in numerous trades. Paul makes presentations to realtors and other groups that have an interest in his service. He has also taught adult education classes showing homeowners how to find contractors on their own and to learn how to properly screen a contractor.

For more information contact Paul at info@HomeProjectPartners.com or visit online at http://www.HomeProjectPartners.com

Replacement or Retrofit Style Frame? Which is Right for You?

Last week I told you how to measure for your vinyl replacement windows when replacing aluminum windows. Now that you're ready to order your new vinyl replacement windows, we need to talk about the different frame style options available. In most of the country your choices are limited to either new construction or replacement frames. New construction frames come with a nailing fin to attach the frame to the studs during the construction of the new home. The replacement frame is basically the new construction frame minus the nailing fin.

But in the west, where stucco homes are common, manufacturers came up with a third type of frame called a retrofit frame. The retrofit frame has a fin about 2 inches wide, located flush with the outside face of the window. This is the best choice when replacing old windows, but not all jobs will accomodate a retrofit frame application. So let's discuss how to determine which frame is going to work for you.

If you have a stucco exterior, retrofit is the way to go. You install the new window from the outside, and the flush fin covers the old aluminum frame that you are going to leave in place. Then you screw the new window in using deck screws through the side channels as well as the top header. We will get into more detail on the actual installation in a future article. If you have a stucco exterior, but there is a wood trim around the opening of the window where the flush fin would normally go, you can still use the retrofit style frame. You would need to remove the wood surrounding the opening, install the retrofit window, then purchase and install new wood trim. The old trim will no longer fit since the replacement window frame dimensions will be several inches larger in width and height than the old window frame. Another option is to install the retrofit fin on top of the wood trim. You can do this as long as the depth from the face of the wood trim to the point in the house of the innermost portion of the old aluminum frame is less than 3 inches deep.

The reason is because a good quality retrofit window will have a 3 inch frame depth from the back of the flush fin to the innermost part of the frame. That innermost part needs to be further into the house than the innermost part of the aluminum frame so that the aluminum frame will be hidden after we apply the inside trim. What if you have brick around the window openings? Or siding? Then what? Well, if you can install the window against the face of the brick or siding and still have the innermost part of the vinyl frame be further into the home than the old frame, then you can use the retrofit style frame. If not, then you have to use the replacement style frame,then use trim to finish the outside.

The main point to remember when determining whether or not to use a retrofit frame or a standard replacement frame is that in order to use the retrofit frame there needs to be less than 3 inches from the outside point where the flush fin will rest to the inside point in the room where the old frame ends. If it's less than 3 inches, go with the retro, more than 3 inches, use the replacement frame and add trim to the outside in lieu of the flush fin.

Next week I am going to explain the process of removing the old aluminum window...

John Rocco has been installing replacement windows since 1978. To learn more, visit How To Install Windows

Custom Bathroom Vanities - Adding Beauty & Value to Your Home

Custom bathroom vanities are a great way to add value to your house or the house you are remodeling. These are not vanities that you will find in your neighbors homes nor will you find them at your local home improvement superstore. It used to be that custom vanities were exactly that... custom made for each situation. They were designed specifically for you and according to the requirements you set forth. With more and more products being made in China, they have even started importing Decorative or Custom Bathroom Cabinets that come completely assembled, with the vanity top, sink bowl, hardware, and matching mirror(s).

So Why Should you Consider a Custom Bathroom Vanity?

The are many reasons why they could be right for your project, but most importantly would be resale value. Buyers like the idea of getting a great bargain for their money and are often eager to buy a home that has custom cabinetry in the kitchen or bath that is unique to that house. With all of the mass produced neighborhoods popping up, homeowners are looking for ways to differentiate their homes from those of their neighbors. Because of this, it is very rare that you won't recoup your investment when you go to sell your house.

There are many things that make custom cabinetry and vanities appealing to many different people but one of the most easy to identify is the quality of not only the workmanship involved but also the craftsmanship. It shows when you have custom cabinets and buyers will recognize that 'pride of ownership' and experience less apprehension when buying from you, particularly if you've taken great care of your woodwork. With higher quality materials, and more attention to detail, I decorative bathroom vanity will hold up much longer to the wear and tear of your family.

The best reason for making the investment in a custom bathroom vanity is for your personal enjoyment. The bathroom is where we usually start and end our day. With more and more people trying to turn their bathroom into a spa environment, it only makes sense to carry that feeling over to the vanity that you install.

A custom made vanity is not only about appearance but should also meet your requirements for functionality. Everything seems to work better when it has its own place and is put back into that place. A good custom vanity will have a spot for all your morning bathroom routine needs.

Where can you find a decorative bathroom furniture vanity?

Even with th9F6e increase in popularity, custom pieces are still hard to find. Since they are not mass produced, you won't find custom vanities gracing the aisles of your local home improvement stores. As I mentioned before, you can find some manufacturers and importers online by searching for decorative bathroom vanities or custom bathroom vanities, but even the search engines have a hard time finding all of the companies that are available because of the lack of traffic they generate. Searching for local carpenters is another way to go, but be prepared to pay a lot for your custom project and be ready for a long lead time.

Most of us have a good idea of what we like when it comes to design features and looks but have very little knowledge of the actual physics involved in getting the look and functionality we desire. Searching on-line is a great way to find samples or pictures of what bathroom vanity you would like to have for your bathroom. It will also give you an idea of what styles each manufacturer or carpenter specialize in.

A custom bathroom vanity or a piece of decorative bathroom furniture can not only add value to your home, but also create a unique focal point for your oasis. By having a good idea of what you are looking for, doing some research on-line, and narrowing down the manufacturers and carpenters that specialize in what you are looking for, you will be able to build the custom bathroom of your dreams.

I have been remodeling houses for over 15 years, and I have found a way to save hundreds on each bathroom that I remodel. If you are looking for a High End Bathroom Vanity , Euro Vanity, or RTA Bathroom Vanity check out one of these links to find out my secret.

Environmentally Friendly Architecture Design

There once was a day where one someone was speaking about the word green, it was obvious they were referring to a color formed by mixing yellow and blue. That assumption is no longer true; with our society leaning toward a healthier environment and ways we can help save the earth, the term green now takes on a whole new meaning. One way to support an environmentally conscious lifestyle is with green architecture.

'Green Architecture' is a form of environmentally sensitive design and construction. Energy-saving, sustainable development and natural materials are all hallmarks of this form of construction. Green Architecture is also sensitive to the impact of the construction on the environment in the years and decades after the construction is complete. It explores a relationship between architecture and ecology.

One of the key points to green architecture is to create synchrony with the surrounding environment. Everything about a green building should easily transition from the natural landscape, including the building materials. The best material to use for green construction is materials that have been recycled or come from easily restored resources.

Advantages of Green Architecture:

1. Optimizes the use of resources, especially energy and water. At the design and construction stage, it incorporates resource recycling during construction, and later when the building is being used.

2. It causes minimal impact on the environment during the entire building life cycle of siting, design, construction, operation, maintenance and removal.

3. Where possible, the natural topography is used to optimize energy usage.

4. It leads to reduced operating costs by optimizing resource usage. Green Architecture focuses on recycling resources - especially water. Wherever possible, it focuses on using building materials from the building site itself. Well-insulated doors, windows and walls reduce energy usage and loss.

5. Green Architecture promotes improved health of the occupants of the building, due to better natural air circulation and use of natural light.

6. Provides onsite facilities for recycling, thereby minimizing waste being sent to landfills.

Materials Commonly Used in Green Architecture

1. Recycled materials such as wood, tiles and bricks that are available at the building site or in/near the surrounding area.

2. Where new materials are used, the focus is on material that can be rapidly replenished, such as bamboo, which can be harvested for commercial use in just 6 years.

3. Insulation made from low volatile organic compounds that use materials such as recycled denim as opposed to fiberglass insulation - which has long-term adverse effects. Insulation may be treated with boric acid to retard insect damage. Organic or milk-based paints also afford protection.

4. Solar energy is an abundant resource that is used through passive solar, active solar and photovoltaic techniques.

5. Packed gravel in parking lots and driveways instead of concrete reduces rainwater run-off and replenishes ground water resources.

Many countries have developed their own standards of Green Architecture for energy-efficient and sustainable building. Given below are some common standards:

1. Code for Sustainable Homes - United Kingdom
2. EnerGuide for New Houses - Canada
3. House Energy Rating - Australia
4. Green Globes - USA, Canada and UK

Practitioners of Green Architecture and sustainable development seek to achieve ecological and aesthetic harmony between structures and their surrounding natural environments.

James Heimler, Architect Los Angeles California, owns one of the leading firms in green architecture and environmental sustainable design practices.

Installing Vinyl Fences

Vinyl fences are relatively novel products that are rapidly gaining in popularity. It purports hassle-free maintenance since it is made up of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It is aesthetically appealing with designs such as post and rail fencing, traditional wood fencing, or decorative iron fencing. There are two ways by which the vinyl fences are manufactured: mono-extrusion and co-extrusion2223. In both the categories, the primary component is titanium oxide.

As a first step towards the installation of the vinyl fences, the ground is loosened by digging. The complete fence line is marked, taking into consideration corners and gates on the line. Subsequently, a string is tied between the identified points to define the length at which the posts are to be placed. The panels are then measured, and this measurement is extended along the line laid out from the corner post. It is mandatory that the stakes touch the string laid out, as this will enable them to be in order. At this stage, it is important to take the gates into account. Finally, the concrete is mixed to firmly fix the posts on the ground. This is probably the most difficult part of the whole process.

There are many advantages to vinyl fencing. It is cost-effective, easy to handle, quick and simple to install. It is made from non-toxic material and is completely recyclable. Of the nearly fifty available fence styles, the three most popular ones are privacy, picket, and ranch or Shadowbox fences. Privacy serves as a firm barricade and is mostly used around swimming pools and property lines. Distinct and visually pleasing picket fencing is used to keep children or pets in the yard. Shadow box uses alternating panels across the back and front of the fence to confer an identical look on both the sides; it also affords more air circulation.

Vinyl fencing has resulted in significant changes in the fencing market since its introduction, and it is likely to be the most popular choice in the near future.

Vinyl Fences provides detailed information on Vinyl Fences, Vinyl Picket Fences, Installing Vinyl Fences, Vinyl Lattice Fences and more. Vinyl Fences is affiliated with Ornamental Aluminum Fences.

Fallbrook Building Articles 4

Mediterranean Landscape Design - Planning Your Outdoor Paradise

Mediterranean landscape design brings together the beautiful, lush European countryside and the relaxed, culturally rich lifestyle of small coastal villages to create an outdoor living area designed for enjoyment. This garden style is a perfect look for today's modern California style architecture and complements Spanish, Tuscan, and other Mediterranean influenced designs as well.

A Brief History of Mediterranean Landscape Design

Gardening has seen its beginnings along the Mediterranean coast in ancient Arabia and soon spread to surrounding regions of the warm and breezy European shoreline. Throughout time, landscape design as we know it today has slowly evolved from the earliest Arabian gardens, drawing influences from Greek, Roman, and more modern Italian architecture and style.

Modern Mediterranean landscape design is as varied as the region itself. Some styles are rustic and relaxed, while others are lavish and sophisticated. With so many different styles to choose from, selecting the best design for your property can seem diffic111Cult. Consider the style and dcor of your home, as well as your own personal tastes, as you look over the different types of Mediterranean garden styles commonly found in the yards of magnificent modern homes.

Spanish Mission and Spanish Colonial Revival Styles

Spanish missions were first established in southern California in the late 1700's when the area was colonized by Spanish settlers. These missions were self-sufficient structures with extensive landscape designs including space for gardens, livestock, and outdoor living. This architectural style seen a rebirth at the turn of the 19th century and was closely followed by a renewed interest in all types of Spanish colonial structures and landscape designs.

The Santa Barbara revival style is also influenced by the Spanish mission and colonial designs. After a destructive earthquake in 1925, most of the city was rebuilt to reflect the original architectural style of the area, but on a magnificent scale with luxurious Mediterranean style homes in some of the world's finest communities. These three styles have many similarities and are generally characterized by these attributes:

• Simple, but elegant, structures built with stucco and adobe bricks and accented with vibrant clay roof tiles are usually the center of the estate .
• Distinct lines and patterns, symmetrical shapes, and clearly defined unity throughout the home and garden are an important part of these Spanish Mediterranean style residences.
• Gardens with lush vegetation, fragrant citrus trees, and serene palms are commonly seen as well.
• Both Spanish mission and colonial revival styles also feature landscapes with elegant walkways and romantic, flower-covered arches.

Moroccan and Andalusian Garden Styles

Morocco brings vibrancy and an air of mystery to Mediterranean landscape design. Moroccan style outdoor spaces are full of color, often featuring detailed mosaic tiling and bright, lush vegetation. Accessories with Moorish influence, romantic water features, and subtle lighting are the defining elements of Moroccan gardens.

Andalusian style homes and gardens are a unique blend of simple Spanish architecture and rich, Moroccan details. Citrus trees, accented by romantic roses and fragrant, relaxing lavender, and the rustic, adobe style architecture of colonial Spanish California, detailed with colorful mosaics, are common to the Andalusian design. Both Moroccan and Andalusian style landscape designs are ideal for the sunny, Mediterranean climate of southern California.

The Romance of French Country Gardens

The influence of France brought an even more laid back appearance to Mediterranean landscape design. Flowing curves and natural beds of colorful wildflowers are significant to this outdoor style. Useful vegetation, like vegetable and herb gardens, are also common, as well as shady trees that provide fruits or nuts. Romantic and secluded garden nooks that provide comfortable seating, along with a spectacular view, are essential to French country garden designs.

The Tuscan Garden Style

Italy's contribution to modern Mediterranean landscape design comes from the artistic, yet simple, age of Old World Tuscany. The Tuscan garden style is a popular look for recent Renaissance trends in fine architecture and is well suited to the year round coastal warmth of southern California. This luxurious garden style features:

• Lush plant life, including aromatic herbs and graceful climbers with colorful blooms.
• Natural, rustic materials like terra cotta and stone.
• Peaceful water features, garden ponds, and vertical wall fountains.
• Teak garden furniture or elegant wrought iron accessories.

Southern California is an ideal location for Mediterranean landscape design because of the inviting climate and beautifully diverse countryside. Affluent communities, like Orange County's magnificent Irvine Ranch, are perfect examples of the luxurious 4A0possibilities of custom Mediterranean influenced outdoor spaces. A professional landscape design service can help you plan a garden that complements your home while meeting the needs of your family.

Allen Quay is a professional landscape designer in the southern California area and specializes in custom high-end landscape designs. You can find more valuable landscape design tips and information on Allen's website, the Landscape Design Advisor: http://www.landscape-design-advisor.com

Simple Wood And Stone Entryway

Installing Vinyl Fences

Vinyl fences are relatively novel products that are rapidly gaining in popularity. It purports hassle-free maintenance since it is made up of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It is aesthetically appealing with designs such as post and rail fencing, traditional wood fencing, or decorative iron fencing. There are two ways by which the vinyl fences are manufactured: mono-extrusion and co-extrusion2223. In both the categories, the primary component is titanium oxide.

As a first step towards the installation of the vinyl fences, the ground is loosened by digging. The complete fence line is marked, taking into consideration corners and gates on the line. Subsequently, a string is tied between the identified points to define the length at which the posts are to be placed. The panels are then measured, and this measurement is extended along the line laid out from the corner post. It is mandatory that the stakes touch the string laid out, as this will enable them to be in order. At this stage, it is important to take the gates into account. Finally, the concrete is mixed to firmly fix the posts on the ground. This is probably the most difficult part of the whole process.

There are many advantages to vinyl fencing. It is cost-effective, easy to handle, quick and simple to install. It is made from non-toxic material and is completely recyclable. Of the nearly fifty available fence styles, the three most popular ones are privacy, picket, and ranch or Shadowbox fences. Privacy serves as a firm barricade and is mostly used around swimming pools and property lines. Distinct and visually pleasing picket fencing is used to keep children or pets in the yard. Shadow box uses alternating panels across the back and front of the fence to confer an identical look on both the sides; it also affords more air circulation.

Vinyl fencing has resulted in significant changes in the fencing market since its introduction, and it is likely to be the most popular choice in the near future.

Vinyl Fences provides detailed information on Vinyl Fences, Vinyl Picket Fences, Installing Vinyl Fences, Vinyl Lattice Fences and more. Vinyl Fences is affiliated with Ornamental Aluminum Fences.

Fallbrook Building Articles 4

Is Modern Bathroom Design Pure Vanity?

In a recent study 35 percent of people named their bathroom as their favourite room in the house. It's not surprising really when you look around and see the gadgets and gizmo's that are now available to help you relax in your inner sanctum.

We've now got remote controlled showers that you can turn on at the press of a button and have it run warm until you're ready to get in, no more standing huddled in the corner of the cubicle waiting for it to warm up! You can pre-set the temperature of the shower to suit you, no more having to turn the shower on and get the shock of your life when you find out that the person before you had the water set to scalding.

You can now get shower cubicles that double as a steam room, complete with radio and a seat to help you get the maximum enjoyment from your shower / steam experience. Hard to believe really that only fifty years ago it was common place for Sunday to be bath night and for that event to take place in a steel tub in front of a coal fire, worst of all it generally meant five or six people sharing the same water!

You can even get self closing and opening toilet seats, the time and energy they must save!

Spa, whirlpool and bubble baths are now a more often than not feature in a family home, once the preserve of the upper classes now even the normal Joe Public can splash out and get one (pun intended) True spa baths offer hydro-therapeutic benefits over a whirlpool bath or a conventional bath using directed jets of hot water to massage specific parts of the body. Spa baths are generally used to promote healing or feelings of relaxation. Back in the late 1800's and early 1900's Spa towns were the true holiday destinations for the wealthy folk in society, now you can just travel to you own bathroom to experience the relaxation and therapy that a spa bath has to offer.

Whirlpool baths are fantastically popular at the moment. Although not offering the same reputed health benefits as a spa bath they do come close to being able to offer the same relaxation level. Whirlpool baths typically have one or two suction openings to draw in and circulate water around the bath, this creates a Jacuzzi type effect but without the jets of water.

The choice of materials used in the bathroom is more varied than ever with more and more people now using wood, glass, ceramic and metal to create unique and elegant bathroom ensembles. Bathroom tiles used to be a thing of simplicity; you could have any colour you wanted as long as it was white. Today we even have tile superstores selling every possible style and shape of ceramic tile as well as slate, porcelain and marble and even granite. Gone are the days where plain old white ceramic tiles will do.

Mosaic tiles, border tiles and even textured tiles are all the rage at the moment.

Is the vanity in the time you spend in the bathroom or in the time that you spend putting your bathroom together?

I try to pass on my musings on life and experiences in a way that people may find interesting to read.

http://www.designer-bathrobes.com

You may not always agree with my writings but I hope to inform.

Harwood E Woodpecker

Shaped Wood Shingle Siding

Window Coverings 101 - To Inside Mount or to Outside Mount, That Is The Question

After much thought this morning I have gathered thoughts on the best way to answer a question from a client that came to me yesterday. Specifically, their question was more about Window Coverings in general rather than a specific type of covering. This gives me a unique place to start which really should be the way I start all my articles. The question was: "What is the difference between "Inside Mount" and "Outside Mount" when it comes to Blinds, Shades & Shutters?" I have laid out the basics below so please read on...

The first thing to understand is when selected "mount type" in Window Coverings; you may not have a choice at all. If your home builder mounted the glass or window frames so that you do not have a Window Well (a recessed area which holds the Window frame and glass) you don't have a choice.

There simply is no "inside" to order a Blind or Shade made as an Inside Mount. That being said, I would like to address the large portion of readers who do have the choice of how their Blind are mounted.

Determine your goals -

Do you want the most privacy? The most light control? The lowest price? The least obtrusive style?

If so, you are describing Inside Mount Window Treatments. They fit neatly inside the home builder's window well and are by far the most popular way to mount Window Blinds. I have an illustration of Inside Mount Blinds applications which can be seen here.

Do you want to enlarge the look of your Window? Do you want to frame your view? Are you mounting to a door or to a window where there is no window well to allow an inside mount?

If so, you are in need of an Outside Mount Window Treatment. They mount onto the face of the wall surface and normally mount above the window header a few inches to allow for brackets. It is also important to order these Window Covers a few inches wider than the window to make certain you get privacy on both sides of your Blind or Shade. Again, I have assembled an illustration here to show the differences of the two styles and how to measure for each.

Next week, I will go over Window Covering Installation in detail.

Brad A. Hall, President
The Blind Factory
http://www.theblindfactory.com
19 Years of Window Coverings experience.

Articles 1

67053

88284

A Small Bathtub - The Perfect Solution For A Small Bathroom

Finding a bathtub that is comfortable to soak in but still fits into a small bathroom can be a challenge. The trouble is when you look at the small bathtubs on the market today you find that they are too small for soaking. This is especially true if you happen to be tall.

There is an answer to that problem that doesn't entail buying a bath that is too small to soak in. All that you have to do is think a little differently and forget about the standard bathtub that allows you to lie down but not to soak very well. What you have to do is simply forget lying down in the tub and think about sitting down. Look for a small bathtub that allows you to sit down and you can have water right up to your neck - even if your bathroom is small.

One of the easiest ways to get the bathtub that enables you the luxury of soaking in deep water is to get a small claw foot bathtub, which is deeper than the usual bathtub and will enable you to have a good soak without getting cramps.

But an even better alternative is to consider a bathtub that takes its design from a traditional Japanese bath. These bathtubs take up very little space but are very deep so instead of lying down, you're sitting, which means that even though it is an extra small bathtub you still get the benefit of sitting in deep water.

Another way of looking at it is just to move away from the idea that a bathtub needs to be a rectangle. There's nothing wrong with installing one into a corner, a design which will let you sit in deep water without having to use up in space in your bathroom. Small corner bathtubs are indeed becoming increasingly popular for this very reason.

Essentially, what you have to remember is that the days are long gone when the only choice of a bathtub was the long rectangular type. With the huge range of styles of different bathtubs on the market these days there is almost certainly this that will fit in your bathroom, no matter how small it is.

Take a look around at some of the bathtub styles that are being mentioned in this article, especially the small 468corner bathtub, and you're sure to find a really small bathtub - the perfect solution for a small bathroom. It will give you a relaxing bath in the bargain.

Visit us for more information on Premier Bath Tubs, how to caulk bathtub tips and how to refinish a bathtub.

What Is Mold

Enjoy Your Bathroom by Using an Exhaust Fan

There are many different pieces of hardware that are required in order to make your bathroom function correctly. You need to install a toilet, sink, shower and bath tub. The most vital piece of equipment in everyone's bathroom is the extractor fan. Most people forget about the exhaust fan when remodeling their bathroom, however they really are very important. These fans help to circulate the air and remove any unwanted smells, they will also remove the steam from the bathroom before it has chance to condense on the mirrors. They also protect designer shower curtain from mold. Bathroom exhaust fans can also be used to drown out the world so you can relax in comfort.

Public Restrooms

Most public restrooms do not have any form of fan installed. Many large public restrooms have an odor spray which goes off every so often to remove unwanted smells from the room. Smaller restrooms may not have any form of smell control! It all depends on where you are going to the toilet. It also depends on the type of establishment that you are using, if they want you to feel more comfortable then they should have installed an exhaust fan.

Couple Bathrooms

It's very common for a married couple to have separate bathrooms from the rest of the house. When sharing a bathroom with your spouse you should certainly consider installing a bathroom exhaust fan.

Many couples have come up with the idea of installing two toilets in these shared bathrooms, however even if you do this you will still need a bathroom exhaust fan of some kind. Many men are not allowed to go to the toilet in the main bathroom because they are just too smelly! They may be forced to go in the powder room.

Most women spend twice as long in the bathroom as a man, and so it's important that it is perfect for them. Many people are investing in creating separate bathrooms so that the two don't bother each other. It is thought that by having separate bathrooms you can even save marriages! It's amazing how just one tiny thing can do so much and make all the difference in your life.

The copywriter Guy Morris is very excited about problems relating to shower drapes and where to buy fun shower curtains. You can learn about his articles on designer shower curtain and shower drapes at http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com

Preparingforinspection

A New Roof Gives You Peace of Mind - But Which One To Choose?

Considering how important your roof is to the structural integrity of your home, it is a good idea to get up there and check on it on a regular basis. A good roof should keep out water and drafts, keep warmth in, stay on in a bad storm, and ideally, look good.

Even minor leaks can cause major damage if they go unnoticed. If a leak develops, it should be immediately patched, and plans made for a completely new roof. After all, where there's one worn out spot, chances are there'll soon be another. If your roof is nearing the end of its warranty, you might consider replacing it before a leak develops. This way you avoid any risk of damage to the frame, insulation, or any interior parts of your roof.

With so many roofing options, choosing the right one for your home can be difficult. Here are a few options available, and an explanation of their pros and cons.

Asphalt shingle is a readily available and relatively inexpensive roofing option, and consequently the most popular. There are two types of asphalt shingles, one made of glass fiber coated in asphalt, and the asphalt saturated, felted paper variety, also known as organic shingles. The organic variety tend to be heavier due to a higher asphalt content, making them useful in areas of strong winds. Both varieties have a top coating of ceramic granules which not only give them an attractive finish, but protects the asphalt from UV rays. Asphalt shingles are estimated to last about 15-20 years. The glass fiber variety tends to be cheaper. As for which is better, that really depends on your needs.

Ceramic tiles, those made of fired clay. Before asphalt shingles became widely available, ceramic tiles were very popular for sloped roofs, especially in Europe. One major advantage is they are fire-proof. Another is that the water collected off a ceramic roof is drinkable-ceramic does not leach petroleum toxins into the water like asphalt shingles do. They are also heavy, which can be a pro or con, depending on the structure of your home and the weather in your area. Heavy roofing material requires a strong frame and especially strong cross-beams, but it is more likely to stay in place during strong winds.

If they are high quality, ceramic tiles can last 50 to 70 years, so although they are more expensive than asphalt, they are often worth the investment. However, poorly made tiles with inconsistent enamel finishes can deteriorate far sooner, so if you are going to invest in ceramic tile, invest in the best.

Asphalt and ceramic shingle are just a couple of options for a new roof. More will be discussed in a follow-up article.

Written on behalf of the OrlandoMLS.com real estate team. Visit their Orlando MLS site for help with your Orlando, Florida property search.

Exterior Stair Stringer Problems

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.

Curved Stairs

Building A Niche Is A Cinch

Believe it or not, a lot of companies - both small and big - create their marketing program towards a specific audience. This niche audience is carefully selected and pinpointed to market segments to specifically maximize the programs effectiveness.

Take for instance one company called HP or Hewlett Packard. This particular company markets and sells machines that are able to do everything, from scanning to faxing, printing, etc.

The target of this company are those home offices as well as much larger companies and businesses. For this market, their products are those whose price range are a bit higher.

The fact of the matter is that a marketing specified to a particular niche market is very cost-effective. Think about it, offering a service or a product to a selected group of people in a specific area almost certainly certifies it being bought.

Advertising on the radio for a specific ethnic audience whose rates are a lot lower compared to mainstream radio programs is better. Your budget for marketing significantly could go far, making you able to get more advertisements a lot more frequently or combine a comprehensive mix of media.

Building a niche is actually a risk that could allow you to make your business grow. These rules help you achieve just that.

Make sure your niche meets very unique and original needs

Benefits that you offer must have an appeal that is special to your specific niche. These benefits must be compelling and new. The needs of your audience must be identified by you, then tailor these to the service or product you are to sell.

Consider all variations your service or product could offer. For instance, marketing and selling soap has significantly changed. But if for example you were able to sell a soap that is able to remove the chemical chlorine from the hair of swimmers, that is a very unique market, as well as a compelling one.

Your niche could be your neighbors who have their own swimming pools and even the Olympic swimming team.

Speak the niche language

Saying something is a whole lot different from saying the appropriate thing. It is always best to understand the specific language as spoken by the niche you intend to penetrate. Their hot buttons should be known to you and communicate with your niche pressing these buttons.

Doing this ensures that the way you communicate is via being one with them and not as an outsider.

Test your market

First things first though, it is a wise business decision to assess the competitors that are currently in the niche you want to penetrate.

Doing so eventually helps you to determine just how it is you could position yourself against their product.

Looking at your competitors web sites as well as brochures is a good way to have an idea on what they use as selling points, delivery, pricing as well as other services or offers.

But if there is no competitor existing, what would you do? This is really not a very good sign. Though it could mean that no one has thought of what you have thought of, it could also be possible that no company has been able to penetrate that specific niche.

All in all, creating a niche is easy as long as you are willing to exert the necessary effort to build it.

Scot Standke has worked with many individuals in niche marketing & specializes in helping entrepreneurs build wealth & gain access to new niche markets through ecommerce & internet marketing.

Home Repair Ideas

List Building Essentials - Pt 1

Weve all heard that building an e-mail list is one of the main keys to success on the internet, but just why is it so important and how does the average beginner go about doing it?

Why do I need a list?

When people come to your website, from wherever they have found it, they will make a fairly rapid decision as to whether they want to buy what youre offering or not, right then and there.

Some will of course and thats great but what about all the rest? Did they decide theyre completely not interested and will never, ever buy from you? Maybe.

Or did they not buy today for some other reason. Maybe they said, Ill come back and look at this again, this evening from home, take a closer look and make a decision then.

Maybe they said to themselves, I dont want to buy this now; Ill wait till I get paid. Maybe they said, Id buy this if I knew more about it. Maybe they said, thats interesting but I dont know this guy and it could be rubbish; I know theres a money back guarantee but what if the guys a cheat?. Maybe Ill check out what else is around and come back if I cant find anything.

Youll never know these things because they wont tell you. Whatever the reason, they didnt buy and now theyre about to go. So what can you do to say Whoah there please stick around a little longer?

How can you guarantee that the guy who said hed come back later will remember to do so, or that he will remember but then hell have forgotten the name of your site, or how he got there and even though he wants to he cant come back?

Thats what an opt-in is all about. Its offering up a little hook for your fish to try but its not a painful one, it wont hurt him and he can spit it out anytime its a friendly hook.

You need to grab his e-mail address and keep in touch with him after hes left your site. Heres how you do it.

Opting in

An autoresponder is an automated e-mail service that will send out pre-written e-mails to the people who sign up for it. For example you can create a series of 7 e-mails explaining more about your product or service and when a visitor to your site subscribes they are sent one of these e-mails every day, or every two days or every week or three the first day and two the third and so on. You set the parameters through a very simple interface.

The e-mails should be simple and short just saying things like Thanks for visiting my site, I hope to welcome you back real soon; heres some more info about my product. You give them just a little more in each e-mail. Each one will have a link back to your site so that when the customer is ready he can easily get back there and make the purchase.

In the last e-mail, you might make a final suggestion to buy or make a special discounted offer. If he doesnt buy after that fair enough, say goodbye and end the dialogue. Or maybe not.

In Part 2, Ill explain how to build an Opt-in form and what to put in your messages.

If you would like to read more great articles on self improvement and making money online, I'd like to invite you to subscribe to my free newsletter, which you'll find at :
http://www.money-and-mind.com

Escondido Remodeling

A Team Building Seminar Can Work For Any Business

It amazes me how popular team building seminars have become. Most major companies and organizations have turned to team building professionals at one time or another to get greater results from their employees. But, team building is not just for large companies, it works just as well for the small business entrepreneur. Id like to focus on a couple of key points that will help you decide, as a big or small business, if team building seminars are right for you.

One of the first questions I always ask in my own team building seminar is; whats the number one thing you need to do in business to be successful. And, you wouldnt believe the mixed responses I get like; having a good product, having a good marketing strategy or having good management. While these things are important theyre certainly not number one! The most important thing you need to do as a company, whether you like it or not is; SELL. In fact, if youre not selling is a hobby, not a business.

Learning to sell is by far the most important skill you could ever acquire. Thats why I teach it in my team building seminars. Everyone on the team needs to know how to sell, not just the sales people. Why? Because that way, everyone understands, not only how important it is to the success of any business but how learning to sell can increase everyones awareness of what it takes to be successful.

So, if selling is the most important skill whats the second most important? Team! The team is what gives life and energy to your ideas and what propels your company forward. Imagine how hard it would be to push a car up a hill if you didnt have a team. A team makes everything easier if, and only if, people know how to work together. Which, brings me to the third most important thing; Teach!

As part of a team, your responsibility is to teach everyone around you what you know that can help them do their job better. How do you know when and when not to teach? When youve done something and had success doing it, then its time to pass on that information. So often when people learn something thats worked for them they keep it to themselves because somehow they think it gives them an advantage within the company. Thats what you dont want. You dont want a bunch of individuals all competing with each other. Thats not a team, thats a contest!

Finally, the glue that holds Sell, Team and Teach together is; Accountability. When you become accountable for the success of others then you realize that your responsibility is to share the information youve learned that can help them. Then, and only then, can you be truly successful as a team. Becoming accountable for each other is truly the magic potion of successful businesses.

So, how can this work for a small business person that doesnt have a team? Exactly the same way! If youre in small business you still need a team in order to sell a lot of products and services. If you cant afford to hire a big team then all you need to do is offer to teach what you know that will help others. In the process, a team will form around you and the energy that you put into teaching will bring you greater success than you ever thought possible.

Paul Tobey offers group led training with team building seminar, Business Training Seminars, Creative Training Seminars, and Internet Marketing seminars for corporations, not-for-profits, and educational institutions. Paul is a Peak Potentials Certified Trainer.

Concrete Tread Bracket

Business Card CD Duplications

One of the most important principles in business is branding. This is because it plays a big role in creating product awareness and creating more business for companies. Given this, companies make it a point to come up with logos and produce collateral material such as letterheads, envelopes and business cards that project a professional brand or image. Recent developments such as the dawn of e-commerce has also made it possible for companies to project and promote their brand using tools such as the Internet. Companies come up with web sites and use e-mail for various business purposes. This has spawned more uses for electronic media, which, in turn, have aided companies in their advertising and brand awareness efforts. One of these efforts is the use of CDs as business cards.

Business Card CDs

In recent times, the preferred mode of information exchange is through re-writable compact discs (CD-Rs), because they are more convenient and efficient to use. However, CD-Rs nowadays are no longer used for the mere exchange of information, since businesses have also found a way to use them in their branding efforts. They now use CD-Rs to advertise their brand by using them as business cards as well. They do this by asking companies offering duplicating services to print their company name, logo, and other pertinent information on the CDs. These media are then given to clients during presentations as well as potential customers during trade fairs.

As an add-on, CD duplicating companies now offer CD-Rs in different shapes, one which is the square-shaped CD, which is now popular among various companies. Despite the different shapes of these CD-Rs, they are still as efficient because they are designed to work with the usual CD-ROMs found in most computers.

A recent development in the use of electronic media for branding purposes is the inception of the Business Card CD. This innovation has made it possible for companies to take advantage of the popularity of CDs. Today, CDs are a convenient way of exchanging data to make a companys brand more visible not only to current clients but to potential customers as well.

CD Duplication provides detailed information on CD Duplication, CD Duplication Services, Business Card CD Duplications, CD Duplication Systems and more. CD Duplication is affiliated with CD Copier Software.

Fire Place Safety

Modular Home Prices - Too Good To Be True?

A little research into modular home prices may lead you to the conclusion that, all other things being equal, a modular home will cost less than a traditional home of similar square footage and with the same amenities. And in very many cases, that is completely correct. Why?

How Modular Homes Are Made
Modular home prices can be kept down because of the way they are constructed. Modular homes are assembled from modules produced in climate-controlled clean factories, and because they are ordered in advance, the manufacturer can order exactly what he needs to make the modules for the homes on order. By ordering parts for several homes at once, the manufacturer can buy in materials bulk and get them at discounted rates.

And because the materials are being delivered to an enclosed factory, they are at no risk from being damaged by the elements, as the raw materials at traditional home building sites often are. The materials used in modular homes are cut by computer-controlled machines to precisely fit together; and there is very little waste. By having only those materials he needs for his current orders, and by using precision cutting, the manufacturer has very little waste, and can keep his modular home prices low.

The nodules for the modular homes are pieced together on assembly lines, reducing the amount of labor involved in their production. Less labor means lower employment costs for the manufacturer and lower modular home prices for consumers. All the innards, the plumbing, insulation, and wiring are already in the modules when they arrive at the building site, so there is no need for cutting and measuring, or high-priced electricians and plumbers standing around waiting for their materials to arrive.

The only time plumbers and electricians are needed in the modular home construction process are at its very end, and rarely is more than one of each necessary. All they need to do is connect the homes wiring and plumbing to the power and water sources. Having all their major installations done in the factory is another reason for lower modular home prices.

Modular Home Construction
When the modules are completed, they are delivered to the building site, where a foundation will have been dug and poured. The lower modules include fasteners with which they will attach to corresponding fasteners on the foundation, and will be lifted into position with a crane. The crane then lifts the upper modules onto the lower ones and attached. The modules are so precisely cut that the fit is seamless. A modular home can be completed in weeks, further lowering its price.

From the time they are ordered to the time they are connected to their electrical and water sources and ready fro their owners to move in, modular homes are designed to give you the lowest possible modular home prices.

You can also find more info on Modular Home Prices and Modular Log Cabin Home. 1modularhomes.com is a comprehensive resource to get information about Modular Homes.

Hip Roof Soffit Corner