How to Clean Your Chimney

Springtime chimney cleaning is very important. A through cleaning is recommended after a long winter of burning fires. The initial cost of purchasing a brush and the rods for cleaning your chimney can be in the $100 - $150 range depending on the size of your flue and the height of your chimney. Many times a chimney sweep can charge up to $100 to clean your chimney depending on the height and how dirty it is. Once you've purchased the brush and rods the rest of your chimney sweeping only requires some elbow grease instead of paying for a cleaning. If you want to share the cost see if a neighbor might want to split it with you. Cleaning your chimney isn't difficult; the hardest part of the job is getting out the ladder. Once you've dug the ladder out of the garage you're well on your way. Don't forget to take a tape measure, pen and paper up there with you, (there's nothing worse than getting back on the ground and forgetting what the dimensions were). Now that you're on the roof if you have a chimney cap remove it. Some chimney caps can easily be removed by loosening 4 thumb screws at the base. Some chimney caps are permanently mounted and the screws are on the lid.

Next measure the inside of your flue tiles and write it down. Take a good look at your chimney while you're up there. Creosote will tend to be the heaviest at the top of the chimney were it starts to cool during the burning process. If there appears to be little or no creosote buildup just black soot a wire brush will work fine. If the creosote is really thick you may want to consider a flat wire brush that will give you more surface contact.

Always use the bush that is the same size and the flue tiles. If the brush is too small you won't make surface contact or if too large you will jam the brush and bend the bristles. Next determine the total height of your chimney, from smoke chamber to the top. If it is a one story home the chimney would average 15', two story around 25'. Chimney brush rods are available in 3' 4' 5' and 6' sections that screw together. Chimney brush rods are made of fiberglass and are very flexible; they can bend 90 degrees or more. This allows for cleaning any bends in your chimney.

When selecting a chimney brush you will be amazed at the differences and cost. The double spiral brush contains more bristles which will give you more surface contact. This is great for moderately cleaning the soot. A single spiral brush with fewer wires is great for the quick sweep when there is just a light dusting of soot. The flat wire brush is best for the heavy jobs. If you have a metal chimney or your chimney has been relined a poly brush is recommended for cleaning. A poly brush will not scratch the inside or your pipe.

Rainbow Vacuum Tech Tips On How To Keep Your Rainbow Running Like New

Todays' tip is on how to remove your separator. First thing to we need is a 9/16 wrench. Try this first. If you unit has a separator that its slits are on a angle then you may experience the motor shaft turning with you. This design was on units made prior to 1990. If your unit was made from 1990 to 1998 and the separator has its slits straight up and down, then hold the separator with one hand and then try to remove a-nut with wrench. This design has a hex pocket that allows a nut below to sit into. This allows the separator to hold the motor while you try to remove the separator. If you have the older style, then this design can be updated to fit your unit. It is very simple and we can explain how to do this over the phone in about 4-5 minutes. The cost is around $30.00. If you have a open style a-nut, have this replaced with part # H555. This part can be found on our website. Type into search. The reason for this is because the open style allows dirt and water to get directly in the threads on the motor shaft. This creates rust on the threads and makes it difficult to remove a-hut. If none of this helps then you can use a airgun if you have one or ask a local gas station. I am sure they would help as this would take less than 30 seconds of there time. Maybe get a full tank of gas first from them.

How A Titanium Hammer Is Different From Other Hammers

A titanium hammer is different from other hammers in a few ways. Titanium weighs less than other metals such as steel. This means that the hammer is easier to use and will help prevent injury from overuse. These hammers are also stronger and can secure nails and other objects into wood and metal in less time. This makes projects much easier to complete than before. While these hammers may cost a little more, they will not rust and will be able to be used in different weather conditions. When building up a tool kit, one should consider buying a titanium hammer for all their hammering and securing needs.

These hammers are sold online and in home improvement stores. When looking for a titanium hammer, one should hold it to make sure it is the right size. Hammers are available in different sizes depending on the size of a person's hand and the projects one wants to complete. Hammers are also built differently. When looking for a titanium hammer, make sure the head is securely placed on the body of the hammer so it will not fall off when being used. A good hammer should last a person for many years. Even though they may have to buy different sized hammers for different projects, they should not have to buy replacement hammers.

A titanium hammer is worth the investment because it can be used for many projects. From hanging pictures to building houses, these hammers are tough enough to withstand wood, metal, and sheet rock. Titanium hammers are hammers that are used by carpenters and other professional people each day. This is because the hammers are light weight, can be easily transported, and can be used for multiple projects. For those who are completing many projects around the house, this is the hammer to use each and every time.

5 Secrets For Interior Design With Pets In Mind

Living with our four legged children brings happiness and some unique challenges when it comes to the way our homes look and smell. With some upfront planning and smart choices, you can minimize the potential stress of keeping your home looking and smelling great.

Here are 5 secrets for interior design with pets in mind:

1.Skip the wall to wall carpeting-pet fur gets trapped and pet oils get embedded

2.Don't use flat finish paint-when your pets rub against the walls-the paint will come off with the dirt you are trying to clean off

3.Match the color of your upholstery and bedding to your pets fur color-yes, the fur will still be there, but it won't show as much
4.Buy attractive, patterned area rugs that are easy to clean-the pattern in the rug will hide the fur better. This isn't an excuse not to vacuum regularly, but it may reduce the frequency.

5.Most importantly, make sure your pets have places and spaces to hang out in. For example, give your kitty a good view of the outdoors in a sunny preferably high up spot. Make sure your dog has appropriate chew toys (all dogs need to chew) so your furniture legs aren't tempting.

Pawprint Design™ Case Study #1

S Interior Design was asked to complete a total makeover of a busy families' living room and adjoining dining room. The makeover included replacing all of the 25 year old furnishings in the rooms. The homeowner was concerned that Hunter, their 8 year old Beagle would have a negative reaction to the fact that his favorite 'nesting and resting' place, an old barrel style chair, was going away. Recognizing that Hunter's world is dominated by the sense of smell (dogs smell 20 times better than people), S Interior Design placed the seat cushion from the old chair in an out of the way corner in the family room. Hunter adjusted with ease since his favorite cushion wasn't gone, but rather put in the room where his human pack members spend the majority of their waking hours. Over time, the cushion was replaced with a more aesthetically pleasing dog bed and fleece throw. We made sure that the family imprinted their scent on the fleece throw so Hunter would accept it. Happy Hunter, happy home!

Pawprint Design™ Case Study #2

S Interior Design was asked to assist in the remodel of a kitchen and adjoining family room. The family in this case includes two small dogs; Diego and Barry. In the old kitchen design, Diego and Barry's food bowls were placed in a corner near the dining table and had the tendency to get knocked over when the chairs around the table were moved too quickly. Their dog food was stored in the kitchen under a small desk area in a functional but unattractive plastic container.
To address these challenges, S Interior Design customized the toe kick (the area under the cabinetry) at the far end of the kitchen so it slides in and out and the dog bowls can be placed inside of it. When the bowls aren't in use, they can slide in and out of site. A custom hinged bin cabinet that flows seamlessly with the rest of the cabinetry was included to store the dry dog food in.
Diego and Barry also got new dog beds upholstered in high performing Cryptonite fabric that coordinates beautifully with the new window treatments and seat cushions.

Understanding Symbols Associated with Electrical Work

I was never good at languages, but you need to be if you are going to work with electrical systems. Specifically, you need to understand the unique symbols found in electrical systems.

When a person looks on a jumble of wires in the back of an electronic device, or even within the walls of his own home, he often shakes his head in confusion. He thinks that he would need to be a trained electrician to make any sense of it all. The truth is that a trained electrician would see a jumble of wires as a jumble of wires also. In most cases, the electrician is going to rely on a blueprint rendition of the electrical circuits. These blueprints reduce the entire electrical system to a series of schematic symbols.

Using these schematic symbols, the circuit logic of an electrical system can be understood and the necessary work performed. Reading blueprints and having knowledge of the schematic symbols used is a basic part of the training of an electrician. The symbols are standard in most cases, although slight variations might exist in some schematic drawings. In the case of variations, the electrician must be familiar with all symbols used.

An electrical system must be closed in order to operate. This means that current must flow with disturbance through the system. However, in order to perform various tasks current can be shut off to certain parts of the system and turned on to others through the use of switches and relays. The current activates various mechanisms within the system such as controllers and motors. All of this activity must be reduced to the blueprint. Schematic symbols are used to represent all of these various components of the system.

The schematic drawing represents a circuit. The basic unit of any electrical circuit is the conductor. This is most often a wire. A straight line is generally used to represent the conductor in a schematic drawing. When two lines cross without a symbol, this represents two wires that are not connected. In order to show a connection, a dot is used where the two wires intersect. The presence of a dot indicates the connection and shows that current passes through both wires at this point. Some schematics indicate non-connecting wires by showing a semi-circle bridge at the intersection. This is done to avoid confusion and insure the reader understands that the wires do not connect at that point.

A normal electrical schematic of a complex system might contain as many as 66 standard symbols. Each represents a different component of the system. In a case where a symbol is needed to represent something not covered by standard schematic symbols, a key must be included on the drawing. With an understanding of schematic symbols and an accurate blueprint in hand, the electrician can make sense of even the most rat nest jumble of wires.

DIY Home Improvement – Is It Worth The Time and Effort?

Home is where we can truly rest well after a day of hard work, and who would not want to have the most comfortable and cozy place for the whole family. Knowing that there is always room for improvement, many would love to improve their house in any aspect as much as they can.

When it comes to home improvement project, the thing is most of us expect restaurant standard on a fast food budget. Your dream home improvement project would almost always fail to realize because of money issue. The thing is who would find their contractors' quotation cheap or maybe affordable unless one is filthy rich!

For most of us, to achieve the dream home that we want, one of the ways is to do it yourself. By doing away with the labor cost factor in by contractor companies, your dream project can be reduced by up to 50%.

Everybody knows that DIY home improvement is cheaper, but the question is should you even do it yourself? Well, it really depends. There are some questions you should ask before you embarked on home improvement yourself:

1. Are you skilled enough or have the necessary expertise to do the job?
Home improvement jobs that are dangerous for layman should be avoided altogether. Some of the jobs include extensive electrical wiring work, roofing work on a steep or high roof, and plumbing work that require one to climb under the house.

These jobs more often than not either require specialize knowledge or safety tools and gears that most laymen lack. It is simply not worth taking the risk to save some money. These jobs are best left for skilled workers.

2. Do you have the extra time to complete the project?
You can work on your project either after work or over the weekend whenever you are free. The question to ask is whether you can use the time to more productive and valuable uses. For example, investing into your family or cooperate advancement. Understand that your spare time also has a value attach to it.

3. Skills, Experience and Tools
Some of the more complicated job would require some skills, experience and tools to do a good job. Unless you are willing to put in a considerable amount of time to learn the skills, especially where craftsmanship is concern, chances are high that you will end up with an unprofessional looking creation. This is especially true for jobs like raised-panel cabinets.

There is always extra pride when you are able to roll up your sleeves and finish a home improvement project from start to end. Nevertheless, you should also understand the practicality aspect of it so as to avoid disappointment in the end.

Secrets To Great Country Home Decorating

Country home decorating is a very popular design choice. It is a style that conveys welcome and warmth. It also adds a touch of whimsy and thoughts of simpler times. These things help create a relaxing environment for family and friends to enjoy.

One of the first places that people use country home decorating is the kitchen. Kitchens are the hub of a home and should be warm and inviting. Some popular kitchen country home decorating themes are roosters, chickens, cows, and apples. These items usually have an antiqued finish on them to enhance the country theme. Some frilly gingham curtains will add just the right country touch to your kitchen.

Wreaths are appropriate in country home decorating in all seasons. You can get them to match any color scheme and reflect any theme. Not all wreaths are pine based. Some are simply branches woven together. You can make one yourself using craft supplies. There are many online sites and books that will give you step by step instructions on making wreaths. Wreaths are pretty on doors to welcome people to your home. They can also be hung as decorations inside on walls or interior doors.

Gingham is a classic way to create a country home decorating style. This fabric instantly gives a country impression. It can be used in upholstery on couches, arm chairs, dining room chairs, and more. It is also used in window treatments, and even shower curtains. Gingham is a very versatile fabric that washes well and is durable. You can use it in many decorations including wreaths and swags.

Gingham patterns can be used for more country home decorating things than just fabric creations. You can use a gingham checked wallpaper to decorate your walls. You can use the same wallpaper to accent practical things like a file organizer or a wall shelf. You can also find gingham printed shelf liners that make opening your pantry a nice surprise.

Vintage hardware is a great country home decorating idea. It adds a whimsical touch of eras gone by. You can get hardware in all different styles and finishes. You can find great vintage hardware to suit all your country home decorating needs.

Stenciling is another popular country home decorating trick. You can stencil around the top of a room like a border. You can also stencil pretty designs to match your décor on wooden shelves or homemade wall plaques. This is a great way to incorporate your personality and beliefs into your home's decorations.

Finding country home decorating ideas is not difficult. Look for items that appeal to you and include them in your current décor. There is a lot out there, so have fun looking!

Kitchen Backsplash Design - Tips, Trends And Techniques For Creating A Unique Style

A new kitchen backslpash design can revitalize an otherwise out-dated or tired style without remodeling your entire kitchen. Turn your kitchen backsplash into an eye-catching, one-of-a-kind design with exotic pieces, murals, mosaics, marble or metal tile. Backsplash ideas are endless, so good planning is important.

Follow these style tips and ideas to create that perfect backsplash design you've been dreaming of.

Kitchen Backsplash Styles and Themes

I'm sure you've been in kitchens that you really loved and some you didn't. Also, you've seen enough pictures to have a good idea of the "look" you want to create. Adhering to a central theme will help you avoid a mish-mash style and turn your kitchen backsplash idea into a design that you enjoy for years to come.

Old World: This look is cozy and comfortable and easy to achieve. A classic style. Use tumbled marble, chipped or worn kitchen backsplash tile, cobblestone or generally any aged material in the subtle earth tones of beige, gold and light brown. Dark browns are out.

Hand-painted tiles, murals and mosaics are also right at home with this style. And although not traditional, a copper backsplash or tin backsplash could be interesting too.

Mediterranean: Colorful, hand-painted tiles in seaside colors of blue and green are what create this fresh, vibrant and comfortable look. The boldly colored tiles can be used as accents, or as a distinct kitchen tile design in a particular section or for the whole backsplash. This look works best when paired with light earth toned countertops and cabinets.

Contemporary: Clean, sleek lines and smooth surfaces are the keys here. No complex tile designs, rough textures or a busy stone. Polished granite on both the countertop and backsplash is perfect for achieving this look. But also consider a glass backsplash, metal backsplash or stainless steel backsplash for that ultra-urban appeal.

Metals are HOT! Copper, tin and especially stainless steel backsplashes and countertops are quickly gaining popularity with many new tiles and designs on the market.

Uniquely Yours: Don't be afraid to take elements of style (but not too many) from different themes to create a design that looks and feels good to you.

Just remember a simple, elegant backsplash design will be most pleasing. So, plan it all out first, have a clear picture in your mind what the finished product should be like and then play around with the design.

Putting It All Together: Colors, Textures & Patterns

Your goal of course, is to integrate the backsplash with all the other
elements and structures in your kitchen to establish the theme you desire.

Colors of your backsplash material should be chosen to complement the
countertops and cabinets.

Bits and splashes of non-complementary colors can be integrated if they don't compete for attention, but start by picking colors that are represented in your countertop.

The texture of the backsplash materials should be consistent with the style or theme of your
kitchen. Rough and uneven for "Old-World" or smooth and sleek for contemprorary.

Avoid creating a busy pattern or using too many textures, colors or
intense colors if your countertop has a lot of movement or veins. Creating
harmony is the key and you don't want to confuse the eye with an
intricate backsplash design on top of a dramatic countertop.

More Fun Backsplash Ideas

Murals and mosaics in general will look better when paired with a countertop that
has a uniform or subtle color and pattern.

Niches and ledges can be interesting and useful elements to add to
your kitchen backsplash design. Place these above the sink or behind the cooktop to display a
collection of colorful bottles, ceramics, plants or all your spices!

Picture frame designs are often added above the cooktop if space allows
creating a focal point for a mural, mosaic or a more elaborate tile pattern.

Choose Your Countertops Before The Backsplash

You want to choose your countertop material prior to designing your
backsplash for a few reasons.

First, the countertop is generally the
centerpiece of the kitchen and should be the first material chosen or
matched to an existing color scheme.

Second, the countertop material is
going to cost you more than the backsplash (unless you are using the
countertop material for a backsplash as well), which for most of us makes it
a higher priority.

Lastly and probably the best reason to pick your
countertop first is that the design possibilities for your backsplash are
virtually infinite; therefore, it is much easier to match the backsplash
to the countertop rather than the reverse.

Designing Your Backsplash Space

First off, you need to determine the space you have available and whether
you can or want to change it.

Measurements of a typical backsplash are 16 to 18 inches between the countertop and cabinets. Now, the countertops must be installed before adding the backsplash so, the countertop will be at a fixed
height.

The top cabinets, however, can be moved increasing available
backsplash space to 20 inches or even 24 inches allowing more room for your
design.

Of course, moving your current cabinets higher or installing new cabinets
means that it will be more difficult to reach the top shelves and you may
lose space between the top of the cabinets and the ceiling, which is often a
nice space for displaying plants, glassware, ceramics or other personal
treasures.

Before you decide, consider the size of your kitchen. A 24 inch
backsplash may be overwhelming in an intimate kitchen, but if your kitchen
is large and open with tall ceilings then the bigger space expands the
design possibilities and adds to the dramatic appeal of the backsplash.

Outlets and Switches are an important consideration too. In most homes the
outlets are right in the middle of the backsplash and will interfere with
your design.

If you're only replacing the countertops and backsplash then
it's probably not worth the trouble to have them moved.

If this is the case, you can faux paint the cover plates to match the backsplash, use stainless
steel cover plates if you have appliances to match or buy cover plates that
are a close color match to the backsplash.

If you are doing a big kitchen remodel or building from scratch, then
consider placing the outlets under the cabinets.

Other options are an outlet strip installed at the top of the splash or turn the outlet horizontal and place
them just above the countertop surface at the bottom of the backsplash where
they are more likely to be hidden from view by all the stuff on your
countertops.

Also, installing under-cabinet lighting will help showcase your
backsplash and provide additional workspace light. Of course, messing with the electricity means you'll need to get a permit and adhere to building codes.

Creating a kitchen backsplash design is an exciting project since even simple designs are unique reflecting your personal taste and style. So have fun and good luck!

Women in DIY

There is a little exclusively pleasing about sanding down a surface to excellence, assembling furniture or putting up a set of shelves our self. Makeover programmes on television have tapped into this hunger for home improvement, and increasingly women are doing the jobs themselves.

According to a current survey of 1,600 Argos customers in UK, over a 70per cent of women consider themselves to be as good as, if not better than, men at carrying out DIY successful. Believing this was because they are logical and good at difficulty solving, while the men who took part thought woman are high-quality at DIY because they stay calm. Whatever the reason, manufacturers are responding to this increase in female interest by producing smaller and lighter tools that are easier to handle.

Barbara K, a general contractor in New York, realized that tools could intimidate women, so in 2003 she pioneered a range in the US that has become a huge success. Her tools are lighter, with features such as hip holsters, so you don't have to keep pitting them down between uses.

Some ranges designed for women can be underpowered or delicate, but manufacturers are including features that make tools more comfortable for both sexes, such as non-slip grips, gels pads and quick change mechanisms.

DIY is much easier when you have the right tools, you need a drill for putting up curtain rails and shelves, while an electric screwdriver makes assembling, flat-pack furniture easier, and laying laminate flooring is much less effort with a jigsaw. Make sure you handle a range of tools in the shop before buying, remember that you won't be holding a drill up for hours, and that the load of some tools, such as jigsaw, will be borne by what you are cutting.

Stain Glass Windows Brighten Any Home

When creating a stain glass window the design may begin as a drawing, a painting, a photograph or any other kind of graphic artwork. The design needs to be simple and bold. Once you are happy with the design you can start work on the stain glass window. Nothing is better or creates character like a stained glass window, it is elegant and it adds sophistication to your home, the light that is produced is soft and is diffused into your home and creates a soothing atmosphere.

It's a good idea to make two copies of the pattern so that you can use one copy to cut the templates and the other copy to place on the work piece to see how it fits. You can cut some costs if someone can donate their old cutters to you, but even if you need to go out and purchase some stained glass cutters they are usually a pretty reasonable price.

Creating stain glass there are many techniques that can be used. When creating the classic stained glass window, there are many pieces of color glasses, you will need to cut each piece so they fit together, then you will need to take lead, brass or copper and use it as a buffer between the glass.

Rub the lead lines and get them well coated with the chemical on the cotton. Take an old rag and polish the lead lines very vigorously. To create an illusion of a lead line you need to do it on both sides of the glass.

Sometimes, a piece of stained glass will lose its original brightness and color that the lead lines once had. The blackness or copper of the patina will dull and you find that over time there will be a buildup of some type of corrosion and it usually appears around the edges of the lead. Most manufactures use lead as the bonding material because it is flexible to use and it last for a very long time.

Lead is used and stripped into predetermined shapes so that they can be fitted between then the pieces of glass.

As you get some experience under your belt you can acquire more tools and accessories as deemed necessary by you- the master craftsman. If you do your homework earlier on before diving in with both feet, you will find that some of the tools you use will continue to be used by you for many, many years to come. These tools help assist an individual in marking, cutting, smoothing, and soldering the glass. To make stained glass, you will first need to get the tools and materials ready.

Some people use stain glass making as a hobby and other times the hobby becomes a business. Stain glass windows are becoming very popular again and many people want these colorful windows in their home to brighten and bring good cheer. Many people bring the stain glass windows into their homes by purchasing lamp shades that are stained glass. One of the most popular stained glass lamps is tiffany.

Five Things You Should Know When Purchasing Patio And Garden Furniture

Choosing Garden and Patio Furniture

With the approach of spring several home-owners will be thinking of changing the look and ambience of their outdoor by adding different items of patio furniture. Adding pieces of patio furniture or accessory to your lawn or garden can increase the beauty of your patio, garden or lawn and add tremendous value of your property.

The variety of patio furniture available has increased exponentially in recent years with varying choices in shape, size and materials. Families are now spending much more time outdoors whenever possible and have added tables and chairs, benches, stools love seats, and more exotic items such as swings and rocking chairs. Accessories such as bird houses, planter boxes and garden bridges will also add a special touch to your patio or garden.

The main materials used in the manufacture of patio furniture are hardwoods (Red Cedar, Chinese Oak or Java Teak), Metals (Aluminum or Vast Iron) and Plastics. All of these materials have attributes that make them attractive for making patio furniture.

Patio furniture made from plastics is lighter in weight when compared to the other two materials. Plastics also offer the advantage of low maintenance when used for outdoor or patio furniture as they require no painting or treatment over the life of the items.

The relatively light weight of aluminum compared to cast iron has caused its increased use in the manufacture of patio furniture. There is however is a relatively high demand for heavy metal furniture especially in public parks and gardens which are easy targets for thieves and vandals

Despite the benefits of metal and plastics hardwood remains the material of choice for garden or patio furniture. Western Red Cedar the most popular hardwood used in the manufacture of outdoor and patio furniture contains natural oils that act as preservatives to help the wood resist insect attack and decay. Cedar is also a dimensionally stable wood which means that it lies flat and stays straight. Properly finished and maintained, Western Red Cedar ages gracefully and endures for many year

The natural look and feel of wood allows garden and patio furniture pieces to easily blend with the plants in your lawn and garden. In addition hardwood has the following advantages when used for garden or patio furniture.

• Unlike Plastic or Resin, garden and patio furniture made from hardwood will not bow or sag over time and will not be blown across the yard by light winds.

• When used for Garden or Patio Furniture hardwood will not become dull sun scorched and faded, but rather will hold its naturally beautiful appearance for several years.

Patio furniture comes in a range of prices depending on the material used and the items chosen. You could make a difference by spending a few dollars on a birdhouse planter box or several thousand dollars to do a makeover of your patio and garden by adding seating, garden swings fountains and garden bridges.

Interior House Painting - 6 Practical Tips

You probably want a classy home interior painting without spending too much money and exerting too much work. If that's the case you can simply refer to the following tips for interior house painting.

1. Wash your brush. Just before you start painting, wash your brush in the solvent that you are going to use when you are done with your painting. Like for instance, water based latex. Through this, as you clean the brush when you are done it will easier for you to do so.

2. Wrap the roller or the brush. If you don't plan to clean the roller or the brush after using it, yet you are planning to do the painting again after a few days. It is suggested that you wrap them inside a plastic bag very tightly and place them inside the freezer.

3. Use either lotion or latex gloves. If you want to keep your hands clean while painting, use latex gloves then. These are great especially when you are using a paint that is oil-based.

4. Don't get stingy when buying brushes or roller covers. When you use cheap roller covers, this will only create a fuzzy form on your wall. Also, cheap brushes will only create uneven brush marks. Rollers that come in multi-packs sold a one dollar are not advisable to buy. It is more advisable to prefer better manufactured tools. Be practical in a clever way.

5. Be clever on the process of your painting. Follow this order: start from the ceilings, to the walls, trimmings, down to the cabinets, then to the doors. Just always remember to start it from the top going to the bottom.

6. Be careful not to lose the can opener of your paint. These can openers for paint come as small metal keys. Therefore, they are prone to be lost in any moment of carelessness. Preferably, chain it to a little chunk of wood.

So, these are all the practical tips in doing your interior house painting. Simply, follow these interior house painting tips carefully and you will never meet stress in painting.

Selecting A Carport Canopy

Your car is one of the assets that you save up for and dream about, sometime from when you are little. This means that only the best kind of carport canopy must be purchased for your precious vehicle.

The various kinds of canopies that you get can fit any type of vehicle and you can get large canopies that fit two or three cars under it. A carport canopy is something that you need to invest in to make sure that the harsh elements do not damage your asset.

The materials that are used are very strong, durable, waterproof, and you need not worry that you will have to buy another one any time soon.

A carport canopy can be found in any color that you want even yellow, red, or blue to match your car. You can get the carport canopies in packages that are easy to assemble and require no tools to be used.

This means that you can move it around if you want to, take it on holiday with you, or use it to host a party under. When you want to move it again it will be easy to take down and put up again.

A quality carport canopy can be any shape or style that you want, and it can come with sides that roll down when it is rainy weather. If you just want to cast some shade over your vehicle then a steep sided covering will be perfect for your car.

The poles are all made of galvanized steel which makes them rust proof. If you need to put your carport canopy in grass, then you can get stakes to assemble it, and if your canopy is to be set up on a hard surface, you can get padded legs which slide into the poles and sand bags which are useful for when it is very windy.

Finding The Best Carport Canopy

If you are intent on finding the best carport canopy for your needs, you can search at many stores and companies, but some of the best carports can be purchase off the internet. These carport canopy sites will show you many different ones, as well as other canopies like patio canopies.

You will then be able to find the one perfect one that you can order efficiently through the secure methods that they have online. Your package can then be shipped to you for you to assemble and enjoy.

So, be sure that when you look for your carport canopy online, you make sure that you get a reputable company that understands how canopies should be made. You can usually view their profile on one of the links which will give you a better indication as to how good their service and tents will be.

Otherwise you can try to find reviews of the various carport canopies so that you can choose from there which one is the best carport canopy for your protection needs. Try to find some online forums where you can chat directly to people who have purchase the specific type of carport canopy you want, how reliable it is, how waterproof, how easy to assemble and more.

Kitchen Decorating Ideas For A Bright New Look

If you are planning on decorating you kitchen then the first thing you need to do is to decide how much you want to spend on the project. Do you just want to make it look cleaner and brighter or are you considering a complete remodeling with new cabinets and appliances. Each route will involve different budgets and different ways of going about the job.

For example, if you are considering remodeling then you might need to engage a professional to deal with any plumbing and electric. In addition to this, you might not feel confident taking out the existing cabinets and installing the new ones. Unless you have some experience of this kind of thing, or have a friend or relative in the trade then it might be best to talk to a professional.

Let us suppose that you have decided that your budget won't run to a complete remodeling and you just want to make your kitchen clean and bright. If your cabinets are past their best, you could, for example, add new doors and drawer fronts. These are available from many do-it-yourself outlets and the job is far easier to do than a complete refitting. On the other hand you may decide that the cabinet doors are ok but could do with a coat of paint. Some cabinets may not take a coat of paint if they have a laminate front. Flooring can add a world of difference to your kitchen, choose from the popular laminates or try hard-wearing ceramic tiles to give your kitchen an up to date look.

Tiling can make or break the look of your kitchen. If your old tiles are looking cracked and dingy then replace them. If you have all white tiles then why not try some transfers to brighten them up. When you are using paint on your kitchen walls it is a good idea to keep it light. Cream or pale lemon are good choices for a kitchen. You can always brighten it up with multi-colored blinds or curtains, then you can pick one of the colors and use that for your kitchen accessories. Bright, wipe clean blinds look great in the kitchen and they are less likely to harbor dust and germs than are curtains. If your kitchen is small, the lighter your décor the better. Bright or dark colors can have the effect of making a room look smaller than it is.

Whatever you decide to do in your kitchen don't get too quirky if you think that there may come a time when you want to sell it. Buyers much prefer neutral décor because it acts as a background against which they can visualize their possessions.

Revamp Your Bathroom With A Vanity Cabinet

Are you looking to add something extra to your bathroom? Have you considered a vanity cabinet as an accessory? Adding a vanity cabinet to your bathroom can do wonders for not just the appearance of your bathroom but it also adds directly to the rooms functionality. Your bathroom is a retreat where you can go to take hot soothing showers or soak in your tub and forget all about the days troubles. You'll want your bathroom to be as relaxing and functional as possible - at almost any cost.

No matter what style bathroom you currently have there is an amazing array of bathroom merchandise on offer and you'll be surprised at just how many different types and styles of cabinets there are available. Everything from hand carved works of wooden art to far more contemporary styles. The following are just a few ideas for some types of bathroom vanity cabinets you might be interested in looking into for your home.

If you're looking for some beautiful antique vanity styles you won't be stuck for choices. Starting at the higher end these antique vanities are made from sturdy handcrafted wood with very smooth finishes and the most intricate of carvings. They come in a variety of wood finishes like cherry and oak and you can also select from different materials for the top of the vanity itself. Some of those include granite, ivory, and marble. These items can be pretty pricey, but if you can afford it, they can add such an elegant touch to your bathroom.

If you're working to a strict budget, as so many of you are, then maybe a pricey high-end vanity is not the way to go. There are other options. For example many people are now converting old wooden dressers into sink vanities. You can easily recycle your own furniture or find antiques for the same purpose online. Once you've found a piece that fits your needs, a little refinishing and maybe some new hardware on the drawers, a hole cut in the top for the sink to be placed in and you've got yourself a beautiful and personal wooden vanity. And most importantly for at just a fraction of what it would cost for a piece like this if you bought it brand new from the manufacturer.

If your tastes are more contemporary then maybe you could think about a ceramic or glass vanity cabinet for the bathroom? This type of cabinet can be quite stunning and make a real statement about the bathroom itself and your own particular tastes. In addition to this they'll also provide an extra level of functionality to your room - in some circumstances they even come with mirrors and faucets.

All you need to do is decide which features you'd like and the type of material you want to use and you'll be well on your way to creating an entirely new atmosphere in your bathroom.

What is a Septic Tank System?

If you live in a city or town you probably take your local municipal sewer system for granted. If you are moving out of said city or town to a more rural setting chances are you will need to have a septic tank system. In simple terms this means that all your waste water and sewage waste is treated right on your property instead of flowing down to the local waste water treatment plant. While this may not sound very sanitary there is nothing to worry about because septic tanks have been in use for many years. In fact nearly 25% of all homes in the U.S. use septic tank systems.

A septic tank system is a very simple structure, but for all its simplicity it is very efficient at what it does. The tank itself can be anywhere from one thousand gallons or higher and is usually placed a good distance away from the house. The main sewer pipe from the house is attached to one end of the septic tank while another pipe exits the far side and is buried in what is called the leech field.

The liquid and solid waste enters the first chamber in septic tank through the pipe connected to your house. The solids are trapped in this first chamber and are broken down by anaerobic bacteria. This reduces the amount of solid waste in the septic system allowing the liquid wastes to flow into the second chamber which then flows out the end pipe and into the leech or septic field. In most cases this is all accomplished with the help of gravity as we all know that poop flow downhill. In some cases the septic tank cannot be placed downhill from the house so a pump will need to be used in order for the system to work properly.

The liquid waste that flows into the leech field is relatively benign and will create a nutrient rich growing area. Any plants growing over it will thrive and many septic fields can be located just by finding the patch of land that is greener then the surrounding area.

As efficient as a septic tank system is there will always be solid waste that is not fully decomposed. This will eventually fill up the septic tank and require that you contact a septic tank cleaning service to pump out your system. Worst case would be to have this done every year but most systems can go up to two years before needing to be cleaned out. Properly taken care of a septic tank system will do its job efficiently with few problems to worry about.

The Importance of Quality Roofing

What's so important about the quality of a roof? Let's take a bit closer look at what it is we really want a roof to do. First off we want it to be sturdy, we want to make sure that it doesn't come crashing down on our heads. We want it to be long lasting; we don't want to replace it on any type of regular basis. We want it to keep out the weather, and elements. Some roofs are inherently designed to let the sun in at certain times and keep it out others. Regardless of what a roof is designed to do, it maintains the purpose of protecting the rest of the entire structure, regardless whether it is a residential home, or a large commercial structure. So it goes almost without saying, the roof of a structure is key in any building design. A roof is a buildings most important structural aspect. Without a good roof, one that functions in a manner compliant to the over all building design and functionality, everything in that structure would be left at the mercy of the fury of nature. To have a grand and beautiful building will eventually lead to unwanted circumstances without a properly constructed and maintained roof.

We construct buildings and homes to keep us and "things" safe from the elements. Imagine the Smithsonian museum with out a roof of any kind. How long would the historical objects contained within last? How long would it take the wind and rain and sun to obliterate those things heralded as national treasures? That might be a bit dramatic, but it does get the point across. We construct sound sturdy roofs to protect us and our things. It has been going on since man first built free standing structures, before the time of Christ. Even back then, the importance of quality roofing materials was well appreciated. Granted the choices were very limited two thousand years ago, but even then they drew on the best knowledge available as well as the best materials to construct the sturdiest and longest lasting roofs possible. Many of those early roof builders must have been doing something right, because many of the roof building practices used back then are still being used today. Including but not limited to Stone, slate, baked clay tile, wood shingles. Today the choices for roofing materials is vast indeed, making the task of choosing the best for a particular type of application even more difficult.

Today's choices for roofing include a vast variety of materials that include such things as composite materials, plastics, steel or metal, asphalt and yes those mentioned above as well. Stone, Clay tile, slate and wood shingles are still popular materials used in modern roofing.

The roofing mistakes usually made are one of two. The number one mistake made in roof construction is not properly anticipating climatic conditions of the region of construction, or using materials that are insufficient for those conditions. The number two mistake is cutting back on or holding down the cost of roofing to increase some interior aspect of a structure.(this usually happens during general building constructions, and not as a rule during replacement or maintenance). The old adage of "Pay me now or pay me later" defiantly holds true in the types of roofing choices made

Choosing the proper roof really has two aspects, existing or non-existing. Let me explain. If a building is pre-existing, and the roof was constructed of asphalt shingles from its original design, it probably wouldn't be feasible to opt for slate or clay tile as replacement materials. Why? Because more then likely the frame material of the roof structure was not designed to handle the additional weight of these types of materials, so using such material could be dangerous. Their added weight might cause the roof structure to collapse. Generally asphalt shingles give good protection except under extreme climate conditions.

The second aspect of choosing the proper roofing material is generally considered to be for new construction. In new construction, the choices involved in roofing materials play a key roll in over all project design. Let's say in someone's aesthetic design choices, Mediterranean terracotta style shingles seem to be just what is needed. They require little maintenance, last virtually for ever, look great and add just the right touch to the Spanish exterior design of a new home. But the catch here is that new home is being built in northern Minnesota, where it snows ... a lot. Now a big decision needs to be made. Having those clay tiles on the roof sure will look pretty, but will add a pretty penny to the cost of construction as well, not just because clay tile shingles are more expensive to purchase and install. It's because the designed structure will need to be reinforced to handle the extra weight of the tiles as well as snow load for that part of the country. It might be now that those terracotta tile shingles just lost some of their shine. So cost becomes an issue in having the best material.

But with the advent of modern materials there are other options available. There are companies producing composite and metal look alike shingles. Most of these new composite and metal roofing materials are light weight, durable and cost effective. So in new construction, you could have the best of both worlds. Low initial cost, as well as great looking, and functional roofing material.

So many choices, no much to consider and to learn, how can a person ever get it all straight? There may be no easy answer to that particular question, but to many others help can be found by looking through the many resources at New Roof Site.com

Solving the Dilemma- Satellite TV vs Cable TV

Ever since late 80s, TV amusement had been expanding in lighting speed. Most people over the age of thirty remember when you needed a good set of "rabbit ears" on top of the TV set just to receive local network TV signals. In contrast, TV entertainment nowadays is much more exciting than it was in the eighties. Hundreds of channels are available to you just about anywhere you live.

But with too many options available in the market, dilemma comes. How do you know which TV system is best for you? Below is a breakdown of each system and how they compare to each other, so you can choose the right signal for your home and budget.

Comparing satellite TV and cable TV

Picture quality

As mentioned previously, all of Cable's basic and expanded services are currently analog. You will enjoy digital picture quality with cables when you upgrade to Digital Cable. However take note that the upgrades do not earns you 100% digitized TV entertainment as the analog channels will remain analog even though you have digital equipment.

Satellite TV on the other hand is 100% digital, which in general means better reception and picture quality.

Installation

Installation of cable TV takes lots of work. Normally what cable companies will do is that they will send their technicians to install and set up the TV sets. Installation jobs might take days depends on the number of TVs the users are going for. In certain cases, you might need to deal with cables lying everywhere in your house for the TV signal transmission.

Installation tasks with satellite TV are much easier when compare to the cables. Its simple and you can even install it on your own. In most cases, installing satellite TV takes just a day to be completed. Both Dish Network and DirecTV are giving out free installation services at the time of writing.

Programming

Both cable TV and satellite TV offers up to hundreds of programming channels. Warner Cable TV for example, offers up to 250 channels in their premium package; while DirecTV offers up to 265 channels. Not much different – except that satellite TV providers normally have more unique TV programs such as International channels (Dish Network is famous of its Dos Latino and Great Wall TV package) and sport channels (DirecTV with NFL Sunday Tickets). Such condition makes users to choose satellite TV over the cables some times.

Services

In the past, cable TV users often experience signal outages, but this is usually offset by the fact that they have a fleet of technicians available 24/7. Digital cables nowadays are doing much better but the problem might still occur quite often for certain area.

Satellite TV is more stable in contrast. The satellite signal sometimes will be affected by heavy storms but recent reports show that the outage with satellite TV is less than 1% in total.

Internet connection and bundle services

Internet connection is one area where the true advantage goes to cable. 2-way satellite offerings do exist; however, at soonest, Also, cable has much more to offer besides of TV entertainment. As most large cable systems offer telephone, Internet and video services all bundled together, users might go for cable when considering the convenience provided.

On the other hand, satellite is still several years away from a price, speed and quality that readily competes with cables. Further more, satellite service has less to offer when it comes to extra features or bundle services like phone. Satellite Internet is available but due to technical constrains, the service is not popular till now.

Wet Basements Repair and Mould Removal

A crucial part of wet basements repair often is mould removal. This is particularly true if your basement was subject to a disaster such as the type that hit New Orleans in 2005. Many basements were left in standing sewage water, which caused the growth of all kinds of toxic mold. The same thing happened in Florida in 2005 and 2006 as well.

The water doesn't have to be contaminated with any kind of sewage to grow mold on and behind all of your walls and inside your foundations. Mould removal can be necessary just one or two days after a flood. The longer that you leave mould removal the more difficult and expensive your wet basements repair is going to be.

Professional mould removal experts say there are four steps to the mould removal process. The first step is to contain the mould to prevent it from be spread to uncontaminated areas. The second step is to kill the mould. The third step is to remove the dead mould and the fourth step is to treat the area so that mould will not grow there again.

After a big flood, a professional best handles wet basement repairs that involve mould. You need to hire a professional Mold Contractor or Certified Mold Remediator. These types of wet basements repair experts are trained to take twenty five prescribed steps to remove mould from your home for good. These guidelines for mould removal have been developed as the industry standard by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. A professional contractor can usually remove mold from anything including drywall, plaster, plywood, and ceiling tile, as well as bricks, blocks, and poured concrete walls and floors.

How do you know if you have mould? According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency you may suspect hidden mold if a building smells moldy. The mold itself does not have to be visible. There is also likely a mold problem if the building's residents seem sick and the building has a history of flooding. Mold may be hidden in places such as the backside of dry wall, wallpaper, or paneling, the topside of ceiling tiles, the underside of carpets and pads. Other possible locations of hidden mold include the walls around pipes (especially if the pipes are leaking or there is condensed moisture on them), the surface of walls behind furniture (where condensation forms), inside ductwork, and in roof materials above ceiling tiles (due to roof leaks or insufficient insulation). Basement bathrooms are a notorious source of harmful mould.

There are also other causes for that big wet basements repair bill in your future. Aside from recurring flooding wet basements and the mould that often accompanies it can also be caused plumbing leaks, leaky roofs or siding, blocked air-conditioning condensation drain lines, and high indoor humidity. Usually it is easy to diagnose the source of the water by yourself but sometimes you get a mystery pool of water or flood that seems to have no apparent cause. In that case the cause is most likely to be hydrostatic water pressure building up in the soil outside your foundations. This water builds up and causes pressure to be applied to your wall. It also makes them very damp and prone to growing all kinds of mould including the deadly black mold that can damage the nervous system.

If you suspect black mould the best thing to do is leave everything that you own and move right out of the place. Try not to bring anything that might be mouldy with you. You would then need to inform the city, your neighbors and also a mould removal expert who will be able to advise you whether or not you can remove it. Getting black mould is similar to cancer. Sometimes entire sections of the house have to be removed to fix the problem. At other times the house simply become inhabitable if the damage is bad enough.

Improved Home Ventilation with Ceiling Fans

We all love a good 'two for price of one' bargain. Imagine then, that have a simple way to improve ventilation without increasing your energy costs - and increasing your homes appeal, all in one go.

Benefits of a ceiling fan

Reduction in monthly energy bills - A ceiling fan consumes far less energy than an air conditioning unit. In climates where high temperatures are somewhat uncommon, a ceiling fan is all that is necessary to maintain a comfortable climate in summer months.

Saving space - Unlike ugly window-unit air conditioners, or box fans, a ceiling fan occupies only the unused space above every ones head. Most ceiling fans are equipped with light bulb sockets as well, so unless structural reinforcement is required, any overhead light can be replaced with a ceiling fan.

Practical and attractive - Usefulness aside, ceiling fans can add aesthetic appeal to any room. There are enough designs to fit any taste or decor theme. Maintaining a comfortable climate and room decor is a simple matter of finding one that fits your room decor..

But what are the best brands of ceiling fans?

Hunter ceiling fans - The Hunter ceiling fan company has been in business longer than the rest. Over 100 years worth of design, and manufacturing experience go into each product. Definitely a preferred brand for ceiling fans.

With a huge array of styles to choose from, Hunter has a fan to match the characteristics of any room decor. They are affordable, and use only top notch quality materials in the manufacturing process.

Classical appeal of Casablanca Ceiling Fans - Casablanca blends modern technology with classic styles. Classic styles without the inadequacies compared to todays materials and manufacturing processes. Designed to accommodate, a Casablanca fan is available to meet your budget, your style, and your functional needs.

Ceiling fans are a terrific way to add comfort to the home for only pennies a day in energy costs.

Refurbish Your Run-down Home

Living Comfortably

A comfortable life goes hand in hand with a welcoming, nice-looking home, to greet you as you get back from work. But after some years of enduring the elements, mischievous kids, playful dogs and simply the normal tear and wear of everyday life, the house begins to look somewhat miserable. Whether it is a major repair of the garage door that your kid crashed into while he was learning to drive, an additional room for the growing family or changing the whole leaking roof, help is just around the bend.

Just Imagine

Make a picture in your mind, of all the little details you would like to change, what you would like your home to look like, what new rooms and facilities you would like to add; imagine a fresh-looking pool in the back yard, a winter garden, a bigger garage. Take note of all this and begin to enjoy it. Do you begin to feel a strong desire to have that dream home right now? I bet you do! Let your imagination run wild and get it done at last!

What Options Are There?

Depending on the amount that your trustworthy architect has said you require, you can either take a personal loan or a mortgage loan. A personal loan will be just right for a small sum, let's say, for a partial repair. But what if you decide to take the opportunity to renew your home entirely, being able to stay in the same place, with the same old neighbors and same old friends? This is where the home improvement loan comes into the picture.

And Now, The Bank

There are some very convenient mortgage rates today that make it easier than ever to refurbish your home. Your banker will help you with your numbers, so you can calculate the highest possible installment, without jeopardizing your domestic economy. Thus, you will be able to repay comfortably, and so create a long-lasting relationship between you and your banker.

Preparing For A Perfect Job

The first thing to take into consideration is where to get the hard cash to carry out the refurbishing. And that's what banks are for. Not only to ensure that you get the means to perform the job, but to guide you for the other requirements as well. Well laid out plans, forms and legal what-nots. Then, while your loan is in process, you can start looking for a reliable constructor, so that when approval is due, everything is set to begin the task.

Getting Down To Business

Yes, that's just what a good imagination needs: The decision to take a course of action. Without that, your run-down house will be toast in no time. The best moment is now. Don't let it pass you by this time. It's just behind the click of your computer mouse.

Searching For Your Own LCD HDTV

We would all agree that Americans enjoy a standard of living that is higher than most countries of the world. Even our lower socio-economic demographic have a standard that makes it possible for most individuals to be able to own their own LCD HDTV. As technology is an ever increasing area with an unlimited future it seems hard to believe that in the past we had such hardships that these days are made more bearable with these innovations. LCD TV 's are widely available with many channels which is a far cry from the humble beginnings of this industry only a few short years go.

What Are LCD TV 's

An LCD TV is a flat screened TV that offers a degree of screen viewing quality that puts prior technology to shame. The ability of the TV to make the viewer feel as if they are looking through a window is one of the amazing feelings usually reported by people seeing this for the first time. LCD TV meaning liquid crystal display high definition television provides to the public the most advanced crystal clear screen for their viewing pleasure. It's a case of having cable TV for a while and then having to go back to free to air, almost unbearable, having the benefit of experiencing the product will ensure the LCD HDTV is here for a long time or at least until a more superior product comes along.

Where Can You Buy The LCD HDTV

So where does a customer go to purchase their new LCD HDTV? The product is now widely available in most general homemaker type stores and electronics stores. LCD TVs are available without the HD (high definition) capability as well as including it built in, the choice is yours, of course the price reflects the inclusion or not of the HD capability. Something to be aware of is the warranty given with the LCD HDTV. If the unthinkable happens and your new LCD HDTV breaks down you will need a solid coverage, especially since these TV 's are expensive pieces of equipment, so the parts for repair would not be cheap.

Research the different brands and compare - warranties, price, optional extras, screen size vs price, demonstrations, ease of use, upgrade ability, compatibility with your existing equipment, reputation and of course the overall look of the unit considering where it will be located.

With the advent and popularity of the internet these days some do a great deal of buying from this medium especially due to the security measures that are used by the internet vendors.

When all is said and done an owner of an LCD TV can enjoy many years of pleasurable viewing from the most advanced technology in this field.