davelewis

[davelewis]

Learn the details of counter depth refrigerators

If you are unsatisfied with the space in your kitchen, but need lots of room in the fridge, you should consider counter depth refrigerators. This kind of appliance does not stick out any farther than your kitchen cabinets, which means that it takes up less room than a traditional fridge. However, it is often a bit taller than most refrigerators so that you do not lose much space when it comes to storing your food. Think about the details to consider before you start browsing counter depth refrigerators. This kind of fridge usually has different measurements than most types, as it usually sticks out into the walkway a few inches less than most, but is a few inches taller. This means that you need an appropriately high ceiling in order to fit this fridge into your home, so be sure that you measure the height as well as the depth. Of course, you should also consider the width like you would before buying any fridge, but the width of most counter depth refrigerators is typically the same as other types. If you want to add style to your kitchen while adding space, you should consider counter depth refrigerators that blend into the cabinetry. If you go this route, you will need a custom fridge company, but the results are often worth it since having matching cabinets and appliances is certainly unique. Keep in mind that many of the popular counter depth refrigerators on the market come in the French door style, adding to the classy appearance that most homeowners crave. Of course, you can expect to pay a little more for this kind of fridge than most others, as the style is unique and up-to-date. Consider how important your kitchen's image is to you. If you rarely use it or show it off and want to save money, you might be better off sticking to traditional top freezer or side-by-side styles. However, homeowners who spend a lot of time in their kitchen and enjoy showing it off to guests will likely find this a worthy investment in their home. Counter depth refrigerators are not for everyone, and if this style does not appeal to you, remember that there are several other types of fridges on the market. Before you browse counter depth refrigerators, you should first decide if this is the style you really want and can afford. The next step is to measure your kitchen and make sure that it will fit, and then determine whether you want a counter depth fridge from the store or from a custom refrigerator builder. Thinking about these details first can ensure that you are satisfied with this major purchase. by: Heather Mills  http://www.articlecity.com/articles/home_improvement/article_7259.shtml 

[davelewis]

Sign of the design times for kitchens: Designing a kitchen that fits your style preferences

Keep an eye on trends  

Traditional? Transitional? Contemporary? The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) recently surveyed more than 350 designers to identify the top trends and styles they tend to incorporate into their kitchen and bath designs. According to this survey, transitional style, a combination of traditional and contemporary, is now the most popular style in both kitchens and bathrooms.   

This marks the first time (since the NKBA began tracking annual design trends) that "traditional" is no longer the most common type of design. The survey also showed that contemporary is the next most common style - with shaker, arts and crafts and cottage also following as frequently used styles.   

Richer, warmer and darker wood species and finishes are dominating in popularity. "Hickory cabinets are catching on, as the dramatic grain variation is ideal for creating a rustic look," says Sarah Reep, director of designer relations and education for QualityCabinets. "Despite the growing trends, maple and cherry are still homeowner favorites for cabinetry."  

Determine your style

While it's good to be aware of the trends, keep in mind that you are the one who will have to live with this kitchen. Incorporate design elements that you and your family will enjoy for years to come. If you don't plan to stay long, consider resale value and how kitchen design might help or hurt it.

Determining your personal style is the most crucial step before the kitchen remodeling process can begin (after budgeting, of course). Take pictures of other kitchens that you like and tear out pages from magazines. Scan home and design blogs to get ideas. Apartment Therapy recently revealed the best home design blogs with its award (as nominated and voted by readers), The Homies. These blogs are a good place to start.  

Several websites offer great resources and inspiration galleries for homeowners trying to plan their kitchens. QualityCabinets has an Idea Gallery that showcases a wide range of options, from more formal and traditional to sleek and contemporary. Pinterest is another great place to collect home and design ideas and save them to later share with your designer.   

Work with a professional designer

While many people think they know their desired kitchen style, many have a difficult time articulating and identifying exactly what they want. A professional designer can help you design a kitchen that is comprehensive and consistent in design style.  

The difficult task is designing a room that comes together as a whole versus bits and pieces. This is where a designer comes in and can turn a nice-looking kitchen into one that is both stunning and functional. Designers can also help you add a personal flair through the accessories, organizational features, hardware and finishes you choose.  

For more ideas for finding your design style, visit www.qualitycabinets.com.

[davelewis]

Hard water: bad for your home and wallet

Research by the Battelle Institute found that with hard water, showerheads lost 75 percent of their flow rate in less than 18 simulated months and could not maintain the required flow rate because of scaling. Water heaters are also negatively affected by hard water. When using softened water, researchers found that all the water heaters tested maintained 100 percent efficiency over a simulated 15-year lifetime, but with hard water, the gas and electric heater efficiency dropped by 25 percent - an incredible loss in energy resulting in significantly higher costs. In the case of the new instant tankless water heaters, hard water caused them to completely fail to function because of plugged-up scale, or mineral build-up associated with hard water, after only 1.6 years of simulated use - about a tenth the normal life of the appliance. Another study conducted for the Water Quality Research Foundation assessed the impact of water hardness on automatic dishwashers. Soft water was up to 12 times more effective at cleaning dishes than increasing the amount of detergent used. Researchers also found that for washing machines the most important factor in removing stains was water softness. Reduction of water hardness was up to 100 times more effective at stain removal than increasing the detergent dose or washing with hotter water. You can take steps to eliminate the source of the scaling with a salt-based water softener. In order to make hard water into soft water, you have to remove the calcium and magnesium. The only way to do that effectively is with a salt-regenerated water softener. These work by running the incoming hard water through a resin filter that traps the calcium and magnesium in the water, as well as any iron, manganese or radium ions and replacing them with sodium ions. Magnetic and other non-salt based water softeners do not remove these harmful hard minerals. Do-it-yourself water testing kits are available at most hardware stores, or you can have a water treatment professional do the testing. The Water Quality Association's website lets you search by company name, state or ZIP code to help find a professional in your area to handle the testing. Eliminating hard water minerals delivers significant benefits in terms of the efficiency and maintenance cost of appliances and plumbing. From a budgeting perspective, using less detergent and energy can add up to real savings for families and individuals. Plus the harder these machines have to work, the faster they wear out and need repair or replacement, representing another very significant expense for homeowners. For more information on water softening, visit water-softening.org.

[davelewis]

Three home improvement tips to help you breathe easier

(BPT) - One in five Americans suffer from allergies, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). As the allergy season begins, experts warn that it may be one of the worst in recent years, with people experiencing an unusually strong reaction due to increased tree pollen. But little attention is paid to the impact of indoor air on allergies, asthma and general health. We spend an average of approximately 90 percent or more of our time indoors, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA reports that "indoor levels of pollutants may be two to five times higher, and occasionally more than 100 times higher, than outdoor levels." How does this impact your next home improvement project? A survey by Angie's List revealed Americans spend more than $300 billion annually on remodeling projects. Yet these endeavors typically focus solely on a home's aesthetics while ignoring one important consideration: Is your home healthy? Start at the bottom We all want beautiful floors in our homes. Many people, however, don't realize that some new flooring can threaten your indoor air quality. When flooring is installed, you may notice an odor for a few days or even weeks. The odor might mean noxious gases are emitting from the materials used during installation. And these emissions, particularly those resulting from volatile organic compounds (VOCs), could potentially have serious, long-term effects on your health - as well as an immediate impact on the health of family members with asthma or allergies. The good news is gorgeous flooring options are now available that are certified "asthma and allergy friendly" by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Tarkett Flooring committed resources toward developing flooring solutions which help people breathe easier. The company's FiberFloor is the industry's only residential flooring currently certified by the AAFA. To earn this certification, the flooring underwent rigorous testing by the AAFA and successfully met the following criteria: * Installation of the flooring does not result in elevated levels of chemicals. * The flooring has a low capacity for retaining allergens. * The recommended cleaning of the flooring will not result in exposure to airborne allergens. Additionally, other flooring options offered by Tarkett, such as its luxury vinyl tiles and planks and laminates, are FloorScore-certified by the Resilient Floor Covering Institute (RFCI) together with Scientific Certification Systems for better indoor air quality. Tarkett's "iSelect" program simplifies flooring options and introduces customers to an interactive, multi-faceted shopping experience.- The system begins with six inspirational color families: Champagne Celebrations, Hushed Conversations, Earthy Connections, Evening Receptions, Fireside Chats, and Warm Gatherings - each offering its own feel and color space to help you find the perfect floor to meet your design, durability and health needs while also coordinating with your existing furnishings and adjoining floors. Spring for PVC-free accessories Did you know that your shower curtain can be one of the greatest sources of noxious gas in your home? Many homeowners purchase PVC shower curtains and liners because of their functionality and ease of cleaning. However, according to "Practically Green," a website for people interested in green living, a recent study "found that 108 different volatile organic compounds, including those known to cause developmental, liver, nervous system, respiratory and reproductive damage, were released into indoor air by PVC shower curtains." Replacing current shower curtains and liners with PVC-free products are quick and inexpensive fixes that will make your bathrooms healthier for the whole family. Manage mold and mildew If you're noticing moisture or mold building up on your windows, have your home checked by an energy rater or a building analyst. To prevent moisture from getting in your windows, select windows made with double pane, insulated glass to create an insulating barrier and keep moisture, mildew or mold from developing. For added energy savings, you can opt for a Low Emissivity or "Lo-E" coating to keep heat from radiating beyond the side of the window where it originated. You'll save on your heating and air conditioning bills while also minding your health. Home improvements should be a proud reminder that your home is your castle and you treat it well. This year, consider investing in simple projects that can also improve the health of the castle's residents.

[davelewis]

Choose a certified installer to create curb appeal with confidence

(BPT) - Looking for a way to improve the curb appeal of your home? Re-siding your home with vinyl siding is a great investment because it never needs painting to maintain its beauty and durability. Once you've made the decision to re-side your home with vinyl siding, however, you need a qualified contractor to install it properly to ensure long-lasting curb appeal. "Vinyl siding is not something anyone with a hammer can install," says Matt Russo, production manager with Hollingsworth Home Improvement. "There are techniques that need to be followed." Look for installers certified through a program sponsored by the Vinyl Siding Institute (VSI). A VSI Certified Installer knows how to:

Correctly fasten siding to allow for vinyl's normal expansion and contraction properties and keep it straight and secure on the wall.

Properly prepare the area around doors, windows and other openings to prevent water infiltration.

Pay attention to details that will give your home a beautiful appearance that will last.

When Margaret Seibert needed to have her 30-year-old siding replaced after a particularly heavy Minnesota storm, she looked to a firm that used only VSI Certified Installers to ensure a quality job. "They did a really good job, and I'm very satisfied with how it looks," Seibert says. "The main thing is not nailing the siding too tightly, but letting it move," says Matt Ocel, owner of Ocel Buildings in Farmington, Minn., which completed Seibert's re-siding job. "Especially with a climate where you go from 100-degree days to 40-below, you have to leave room for vinyl siding to expand and contract." With nearly 3,500 VSI Certified Installers across the U.S. and Canada, VSI offers a locator tool to help homeowners find professionals in their area. Log on to www.vinylsiding.org to learn more. Ask if your builder or home improvement contractor is using VSI Certified Installers; these qualified professionals carry a photo ID with their current certification number and expiration date. VSI Certified Installers have demonstrated their installation skills and knowledge of the industry standard ASTM 4756, verified by an independent quality control agency. ASTM standards are used around the world to improve product quality, enhance safety, facilitate market access and trade and build consumer confidence. VSI Certified Installers must have a minimum of one year of experience installing vinyl siding and accessories, attend a hands-on course taught by a VSI Certified Trainer, pass a written test about proper installation practices, and be re-certified every three years. Vinyl siding installation companies can also become certified. The company must have an approved quality control program, as well as a certified installer or trainer present on every job crew where vinyl siding is being installed. For more information about VSI's program, visit www.vinylsiding.org/certifiedinstaller.

[davelewis]

How to think like a buyer when getting your property ready to sell

The house is finally done after a whole lot of "blood, sweat and tears", and now it's time to get your wholesale flip "retail buyer ready". Real estate investors all have the same question at this point; how can I make my house stand out from the other homes for sale in the neighborhood? The answer is quite simple. Your home has to make a better first impression than your competition. Your potential buyer has to want to come inside from the moment they drive up to the house. So how do you do that? Learn to think like a buyer! Curb Appeal Is Everything! Pay special attention to the landscaping and keep the grass cut and trimmed while your house is for sale. If you are selling during the summer months, extra watering may be needed to keep the lawn in tip top shape.     Give your yard a manicured look. It will really pay off to spend a few dollars to have the plants neatly trimmed, the planting beds weeded, and fresh mulch put down. A great touch is to put brightly colored flowers near the front of the house. You might even want to add a couple of pots of flowers at or near the front door well give it an extra touch. Be sure to pick plants that don't need daily watering. All your windows should be sparkling clean on the exterior as well as the interior. Take a good look at your front door. Does it need a fresh coat of paint or maybe just a good cleaning? Spend a few dollars and replace your old mailbox, then add some attractive house numbers. These simple things will give your house a polished look. Make sure your deck or patio in the back yard is neat and inviting. You want your buyers to be able to imagine entertaining or just relaxing in this space at the end of the day. A power washer can be rented for about $40-$50 dollars if heavy duty cleaning is needed. Go ahead and power-wash any siding on your house at the same time. Store all garden equipment and trash containers out of sight. Look at the interior of the house through "buyer's eyes" Have a professional do a thorough house cleaning when the house is finished, paying special attention to the kitchen and the bathrooms. Remember these are the rooms that sell houses! Make sure all floors have been cleaned and are in good condition. This also applies to any carpet that hasn't been replaced. Give the house the "sniff test". Does it smell good? Buyers don't want to have to paint before moving in, so be sure the house is painted in neutral colors. Painting the trim a crisp white makes the home look modern and inviting. Home staging always pays big dividends! Consider doing some simple home staging so that prospective buyers can imagine what the home will look like with furniture in it. Does the basement have a "musty" smell? Figure out what the problem is and correct it. Does everything in the house function properly? Make sure all the light bulbs are working, and all of the cabinet handles and doorknobs are securely attached. Walk through the house and give it the same scrutiny that a buyer will, double checking the smallest details in the home. Be sure to change your filters. If the furnace or AC filter hasn't been replaced during the rehab, clean or replace it. Author: Sharon Vornholt Sharon's Website: http://LouisvilleGalsRealEstateBlog.com

[davelewis]

The design element that can add drama and save cash

While drama may be unattractive in other aspects of your life, a dash of it can be just what your home's decor needs to spice things up. Fortunately, you don't have to choose between drama and cents. At least one popular design element can deliver positive impact on your decor and your wallet: skylights. Interior designers, architects, decorators and homeowners have been relying on skylights to add beauty, warmth, natural light and passive ventilation to interior designs for decades. Fortunately, advances in skylight design make them a cost-effective, green design element as well. "Skylights ... enliven a house dramatically while cutting down the need for artificial light," notes the website ConsumerEnergyCenter.org. "They brighten up dark corners and let in lots of warmth. They can also provide much-needed ventilation." Less dependence on artificial light sources or powered ventilation can mean lower electric bills in summer. Plus, warm sun entering the home through a skylight in winter can reduce your heating bills, as well. In fact, EnergyStar.gov says that installing Energy Star-qualified skylights, windows and doors can shrink your home's energy bill - and carbon footprint - by 7 to 15 percent over non-qualified products. "Skylights convey drama, yet they're a surprisingly cost-effective home improvement," says Ross Vandermark, national product manager of Velux, manufacturers of the "No-Leak Skylight." "Installing skylights can be less costly than buying new designer furniture or putting in new carpet. Plus, if your interior design cries out for natural light, it's more practical and cost-effective to place skylights overhead than to add windows to a wall." Aesthetic benefits By opening a room to the sky, skylights add a touch of drama to the interior design. They're also an appealing solution for rooms where a traditional window might be problematic.  For example, in a bath, a venting skylight makes it possible to enjoy natural light and fresh air without sacrificing privacy or living with frosted glass. Venting models are also popular in kitchens and laundry rooms to remove cooking odors and excess heat while brightening much-used work spaces.  In other areas of the home,  affordable tubular skylights like Velux's Sun Tunnel products make it possible to introduce natural light to hallways, closets, and other smaller or confined spaces. With the addition of a light kit, 24-hour illumination is available. Overall, skylights are less limiting to a room's design than a traditional window - all while admitting much more natural light. Many people completely overlook or under utilize the design potential of a ceiling. Skylights can turn that blank slate into a design statement that is both functional and beautiful.  Practical value Venting skylights can also offer a low-cost way to address indoor air quality by removing humidity, fumes and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from your home through their natural chimney effect. In addition to helping improve indoor air quality, skylights allow you to turn off electric lights and save money on power bills. Accessorizing with manual or solar-powered, remote-operated blinds that qualify for tax breaks, allows you to further incorporate skylights into a design theme. Plus, the blinds - which are available in a range of colors and patterns - enhance the efficiency of skylights by allowing you to control the amount of light or heat that enters or leaves a room. "Few home improvements marry the dramatic design impact and energy saving boost that you get from adding skylights," says Vandermark. "When it comes to redesigning a room, they're truly the touch that elevates the look and feel of your decor." You can learn more about window and skylight energy efficiency at www.energystar.gov, and for independent agency information visit www.nfrc.org or www.efficientwindows.org.

[davelewis]

Budget-friendly ways to refresh old outdoor spaces

(BPT) - Indoors or outdoors, your home decor needs some TLC to look its best. Replacing worn or dated furniture or flooring inside your home is considered fairly easy. But when outdoor spaces start to appear shabby, do you decide to live with the tired look because you think freshening the space will be too time-consuming or costly? A few budget-friendly improvements and decorating touches can revitalize worn outdoor spaces and help them look new and inviting again. Here are some common challenges, and tips for overcoming them: Worn decks, patios or porches Decks, patios and porches are popular spots for home improvements - ones that create a staging place for outdoor entertaining or just relaxing and enjoying nature. When a wood deck becomes old and worn, or concrete patios crack, you may think the only solution is to replace them. But before you take that costly step, consider alternatives that can revitalize the existing surface without the need to replace it. According to Scott Richards, senior vice president of marketing at Behr Paints, BEHR DECKOVER Solid Color Coating is a smooth finish resurfacing product that brings old, weathered wood or concrete surfaces back to life with a unique solution that hasn't existed before, and it's a budget-friendly alternative to replacing deck boards, railings, porches, boat docks, pool decking or patios. "BEHR DECKOVER protects against the elements, while refreshing the appearance of wood and concrete," says Richards. "With just two coats and no primer needed, the thick coating covers splinters and fills cracks up to a quarter of an inch, spreading as easily as paint. We've created a way to achieve a low maintenance deck that resists the elements, repels water and creates a smooth, slip-resistant finish that is comfortable for bare feet." It's available at The Home Depot stores nationwide and comes in 54 colors. Visit www.behr.com to learn more. Adding accents like decorative railings or lighted post caps can also revive the look of older decks. Deck manufacturers offer a variety of options for railings, from carved wood to metal and even glass. In most cases, you can add these railings to your existing deck boards, allowing you to replace just part of the deck and achieve a brand-new, designer look. Tired furniture Replacing sun-faded, weather-damaged cushions on outdoor furniture is a good start, and easy enough to do. But what do you do when the furniture frame has seen better days? Depending on the type of construction, you have several options including painting and reupholstering. Landscaping and lighting Modern outdoor settings allow nature and technology to meet. Give your exterior living space a new modern look by upgrading both landscaping and lighting. Improving your landscaping can be as easy as planting a few container gardens around your deck or patio and filling them with flowers that will bloom throughout the season. Nothing looks fresher and livelier than flowers. Next, look at how your outdoor space is lit. Adding lighting allows you to enjoy the space safely after the sun goes down, but dated lighting can make your deck or patio look dull. Plus, older lights are often not as energy-efficient as newer options. Upgrade lighting by replacing old fixtures with newer options, such as solar-powered lights or ones that use energy-sipping CFLs or LEDs. Making your old outdoor space look like it belongs beside a new showcase home doesn't have to be difficult or costly. With a few budget-minded tips and tools, it's possible for any do-it-yourselfer to make everything old new again.

[davelewis]

Innovative solutions for your home

Technologies that improve and protect your home become more advanced each year. If you have some problem areas that could benefit from the latest unique home solutions, here are some tips: Deck kits enhance outdoor spaces With the emergence of new deck materials such as solid PVC, homeowners no longer have to waste excessive time or money on deck maintenance. The vast array of rich colors and surface textures, along with stain and scratch resistant materials have made these items a smart choice over wood. Now, there are kits that accessorize these deck options. If you've ever made a mad dash to retrieve cushions or other items when it rains, then in-deck storage may be in order, according to Mike Gori, deck expert for AZEK Building Products, maker of AZEK Deck. This clever idea provides 17.5 cubic feet of safe, dry storage space that uses the area below the deck. "You don't have to sacrifice living space or ruin your view with unsightly plastic tubs," says Gori. The storage unit's lid sits flush with the deck surface and holds up to 500 pounds. "There are also kits for building benches with planter boxes and custom gates," he says. "It's never been easier to accessorize a new or existing deck."

The caulk cure for energy costs One of your home's biggest money drains can be energy waste - whether it's warm or cool air leaking out or outside temperatures sneaking in. That is where a bead of quality caulk can be the best bang for your buck. One caulk problem happens when homeowners paint caulk too early, which can cause cracks to form, letting in air and moisture. "What we came up with is an advanced sealant called ColorCure that actually tells you when the caulk can be painted - it turns from pink to white," says Jason Ringling, director of marketing at Red Devil, Inc. "If you test caulk by touching the wet bead, the finish is ruined." Another good practice is to use new caulk and sealant products that are better for the environment as well as high performance. "It's not only environmentally friendly, but solvent-free and low VOC - and with no plasticizers it won't leach or pick up dirt which is perfect for painted finishes," Ringling says.

Have a great room outdoors Shade pergolas can provide the convenience of a great room in the great outdoors for entertaining al fresco. With dignified beauty, pergolas have many style options that create a picture-perfect gathering spot near the garden or pool. "These versatile, stylish outdoor rooms provide semi-privacy and are ideal for entertaining or relaxing with your family," says Sue Donahue, marketing manager for Walpole Woodworkers a leader in premium outdoor structures. Another advantage to today's pergola designs is the addition of protective fabric canopies that let the party go on, rain or shine. "Canopies, either operated manually or by remote control, keep furniture and outdoor decor protected at the first sign of inclement weather," she says. Pergola styles include arched or classic straight tops, and columns are typically square, tapered, or round. A lattice screen can add more privacy and bring color to the area, with climbing plant and vines. Donahue says to look for pergolas in wood or the new wood-alternative solid PVC materials that are low maintenance and long-lasting. Prepare for wet weather extremes Extreme weather events can happen in a flash. Even if you're not in an official flood zone, inches of rainfall in a matter of minutes, hurricanes and other freakish weather events can cause flooding. The experts at WAYNE Water Systems advise consumers to look for durable, reliable, worry-free water handling pumps.

"It only takes one water event to cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage, so prevention is the key, starting with a quality sump pump," says vice president of sales Charles Murphy. "Additional layers of protection include battery back-up pumps in case of power outages and water-sensing alarms for early notification. As homeowner Bill Bellaver of Troy, Mich. reports, his sump pump protected his home for 33 years before taking its last gasp. His friends and neighbors were not so lucky. "Our WAYNE pump has worked well without any issues, while friends with lower quality or no pumps have suffered damage or loss of valuables," he says. Homeowners can make smarter choices with today's new home solutions. It's a way to reduce hassles, save money and add convenience to their current lifestyle.

[davelewis]

Four fast, easy kitchen projects you can complete this weekend

Focus on projects that will have maximum impact with minimal time invested. These would be projects such as restoring existing tile work or installing a tile backsplash, switching out cabinet hardware, or painting an accent wall or the ceiling rather than the whole room. Here are four simple kitchen improvements that you can do in a day or two: 1. Rejuvenate existing tile and grout - Old, stained tile and grout can make an entire surface appear dated and dingy, even if the tile itself is in good condition. Cleaning or recoloring grout can breathe new life into existing tile work, whether its countertops, flooring or a backsplash. Products like the Aqua Mix brand of tile cleaners and sealants can help remove stains and brighten surfaces without damaging grout. If your grout is in good shape, but you're just tired of the off-white or gray color, try updating it with a grout colorant. Aqua Mix makes an easy-to-use water-based epoxy available in 24 different colors that recolors, seals and renews existing grout. 2. Create a trendy tile backsplash - Tile without hiring a professional. If you're a do-it-yourselfer with the right tools and a little bit of know-how, you can easily add a tile backsplash featuring colorful glass or metallic tiles for that designer look in the kitchen. "Adding a backsplash with decorative tiles creates a new focal point and at the same time brings in a fresh accent color to the kitchen. Follow through with additional touches and inexpensive accessories such as towels, a new curtain or decorative glass jars to complete the transformation," says independent interior designer Ann Borsheim. Products like the SimpleMat brand tile setting mat make it easy to install tile - on a backsplash, countertop or shower wall. Because the mat's double stick adhesive sheets eliminate the need to apply mortar, so you can work at your own pace. Start with a smooth surface - you can even tile over existing tile surfaces - place the mat in position, cut as needed with scissors or a utility knife, press the tiles of your choice in place and grout immediately using a pre-mixed or single-component grout product. SimpleMat is available exclusively at Home Depot in sheets or as a value-size role for larger projects. Never installed tile before? No problem - check out the manufacturer's instruction videos at www.thesimplemat.com. 3. Replace dated hardware - Cabinet replacement can be costly and time-consuming - and best left to professionals. But you can easily and quickly give your cabinets a whole new look by replacing outdated hardware. If your cabinets are still builder-bare of knobs, handles or pulls, adding them can not only make them look fresh, it can make them much easier to use. It's easy to find hardware to suit virtually any design theme or taste, with many home improvement stores carrying a wide range of designer styles from sleek, modern metallics to Victorian-inspired glass. 4. Get creative with paint - Painting is one of the most powerful, cost-effective ways to recreate the look of a room, but painting the entire space can be time-consuming. If you're not up for a full day of painting four walls and all that trim, consider painting one wall in an eye-catching accent color. Or, for something really different - albeit a bit more work - paint the ceiling in a hue that complements the current wall color. No design rule says your kitchen ceiling must be plain white, so spice it up with a color that speaks to you. Updating your kitchen is a rewarding home-improvement job, and can enhance the kitchen's appearance and your enjoyment of it, as well as boost your home's value. In fact, according to Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value Report, even a minor kitchen renovation will return more than 75 percent of its cost when you sell your home.

[davelewis]

Five things before purchasing a house

One of the main purchases you are going to make is buying a house. You have to think through all of your options before making the decision. Here are some of the things you need to know before you buy a house: 1) It is essential that you have good credit. You will most likely obtain a loan to buy a house. Thus, you should ensure that your credit is good for a smooth sailing application. It would be better to check your credit history frequently for your own security as well. 2) Prepare for long-term debts. Keep in mind that it will take years before you will be able to pay for the house completely. Ensure that you will be able to manage payment for the mortgage. Having a financial cushion is significant. Since the debt is long-term, anything can occur. 3) Most loans need a document from the appraiser so it is better to get their opinion when you see a potential house. The appraisers are experts in giving values to properties depending on the location, structure, features, and added extras to the house. This will stop any sales representative from over pricing the house. 4) It is very attractive to buy a beautiful house at a very cheap price. Before you decide on purchasing the beautiful house, ensure that it has a safe environment. Take note that one of the factors that make a house costly is good location. If you think that the price is much cheaper than it looks, the locations may not be that attractive. Ask the appraiser why the value is low. It could be that the neighborhood is not safe. These factors are very important in your decision-making. 5) Make sure that the house you choose suits your lifestyle. No matter how beautiful the house is, if it does not coincide with your behavior, you will not be comfortable in it. When you choose a house, make sure that it makes you feel at ease. Your financial state is most important when planning to a buy a house. This makes it essential to monitor your credit on a regular basis. Finally, you have to learn as much as you can about the home before purchasing it. by: Sheldon Kalnitsky http://www.articlecity.com/articles/home_improvement/article_3792.shtml

[davelewis]

Can't read it, don't feed it: Why wild bird-lovers should choose top-of-the-crop natural feed

(BPT) - Have you ever wondered what's in one of your favorite packaged foods, grabbed the box from your pantry, read the ingredients list ... and realized you still didn't know what you were eating? The ingredients in some processed foods can read like a chemist's shopping list. Now imagine if your backyard birds could read. What would they say about the ingredients in the food you feed them? A growing number of Americans are choosing natural foods for their pets; nearly a third say they prefer natural products, according to PetFoodIndustry.com. People who feed wild birds care about them just as much as their four-legged pets and want to know they're feeding their backyard birds the most natural and nutritious options available. It's hard to feel that confidence when reading the mystifying ingredient list on the feed bag makes you feel like a bird brain. The wild bird experts at Cole's Wild Bird Products Co. offer some tips for ensuring you're feeding your feathered friends a healthy, natural diet that they'll appreciate: * Avoid seed blends that are full of cheap fillers, like oats and red milo. Fillers not only lack nutritional value, birds will kick them right out of the feeder. Select natural feed comprised of top-of-the-crop seeds and pass by seed coated with chemicals and mineral oil. * Take note of ingredients you can't read, often it's an indication the ingredient is a synthetic or lab engineered. Ingredients like Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex and Thiamine Mononitrate aren't found in natural food, they're man-made versions of vitamins. Since wild birds normally get all their vitamins and nutrients from natural sources, adding a synthetic version is questionable at best. The rule of thumb for buying all natural is if you can't read it, don't feed it!    * Focus on serving feed with an ingredient list you can read and understand. For example, Cole's Sunflower Meats contains nothing but shelled sunflower seeds. Easy, right? It's a favorite feed to a wide range of backyard birds, too. * Either get to know the types of birds visiting your feeder and research feed they prefer, or buy feed from a reputable company who has already done that work for you. Cole's offers select natural seed choices developed and based on factual research about what birds really eat. Feed is specifically formulated to attract certain species of birds as well as the largest number of birds, too. When you know and serve what your backyard birds prefer, you'll keep them coming back to your feeders. * Feel free to supplement seed and feed with natural food you already have at home. For example, jays and woodpeckers love raw peanuts, while mockingbirds and orioles love fruit, and chickadees, blue jays and cardinals savor suet. Soak raisins and currants in water overnight, then place them on a table feeder, or purchase blends with a dried fruit and nut mixture, like Nutberry Suet Blend. To attract orioles and tanagers, skewer halved oranges onto a spike near your feeders for a special treat. * Don't forget the importance of the right type of feeder. Dish and bowl feeders are great for serving fruits, while most birds will appreciate a terrific tube feeder for seeds both large and small. Traditional tube feeders are great all-purpose feeders, and a must-have for backyard bird feeding. * Buy feed from companies who specialize in wild bird food. Some companies offer bird feed as a side product to their main business of pet products or grass seed. Cole's exclusively produces and sells products for feeding backyard birds. To learn more about wild bird feeding and all-natural feed options with ingredient lists even birds could understand, visit www.coleswildbird.com.

[davelewis]

Practical 2-for-1 solutions for gardeners

What gardener doesn't find tasks like weeding and watering tiresome? To tackle recurring chores like these and more with greater ease and efficiency, consider some practical tools that offer two-in-one solutions. Watering well: For a new twist on watering, try the Dramm ColorStorm Spinning Sprinkler. It takes the usual hose-attached sprinkler experience in a different direction. The spinning head is designed to cast arcs of water up to 38 feet in diameter, while atomizing water into fine droplets for more efficient water usage and more thorough soil penetration. It's geared for use on properties with practically any water pressure, from low to high, making it an especially welcome solution for those on the no-oomph end of the pressure spectrum.   

Weeding and mulching: To gardeners, weeding is the very definition of "relentless." With new Preen Mulch Plus you can apply mulch and prevent weeds for six months in one easy step. Preen Mulch Plus is a premium shredded wood mulch with two highly effective weed preventers already mixed in. It stops weeds, as seeds, before they start growing. It comes in three non-fade colors that add a finished look to any garden or landscape: midnight black, russet red and chestnut brown. As an added benefit, Preen Mulch Plus provides full weed protection when spread only 2 inches deep, instead of the usual 3-inch depth recommended for other bagged mulches, so each bag covers 30 percent more ground. The only mulch with six month weed protection, it's available at Lowe's and independent garden centers.  

Cutting, digging, rock removal, crack cleaning, planting and more: A. M. Leonard's classic soil knife is a multi-solution tool that now comes in a deluxe model. The horticultural tool and supply company founded in 1885 considers this their "must-have tool." The Deluxe Soil Knife is made of rust-resistant Swedish stainless steel, which adds strength to its versatility, with each 6-inch blade crafted to withstand over 300 pounds of pressure. Definitely a two-for-one item, on one side the blade features a tapered slicing edge, on the other a deeply serrated cutting edge. New features include a more comfortable grip and inch markings on the blade shaft.  

Lugging, trugging and cooling: In Spain, where they're made, Trug Tubs are used in orchards for harvesting fruit. There are imitators, but the originals are sturdy, black and indestructible. This versatile garden carrier is one tool that tackles two, three and more garden tasks with ease. The Trug Tub is a broad, round, rubbery tub with two handles. Grab it by the handles with one hand and the flexible sides bend in to form an elongated trug shape, great for carrying tools or firewood. In its round tub shape, it's ideal for mixing potting soil or lugging yard debris. Made of 100 percent recycled polyethylene, it's easy to clean. Freezing cold temperatures are no problem so, when garden chores are done and it's party time, use it as an ice chest for cooling backyard beverages.

[davelewis]

How to Get a House Ready For Sale

CALL YOUR REAL ESTATE AGENT One mistake that home owners make when they are ready to sell their home is getting their home "ready" to sell before they call an agent. The home owners will make repairs or upgrades that have will little or no return on their investment. Your real estate agent (hey, that's me) will give you tips on what renovations are necessary to sell, if any.  DE-CLUTTER Remove everything but the essentials. Donate what you don't want and store the rest. Plenty of people prefer to use storage units for items they want to keep. Take a minute to organize kitchen cabinets, closets, bathrooms and the pantry. It if looks like a clothing store in your closet and a well-fronted grocery store, you're doing great. DE-PERSONALIZE Potential buyers want to be able to walk into your home and imagine themselves living there. They can't do that if you have pictures of your family up and decor like "Thomas Family. Established in 1988" hanging on the front door. Remove these items, and any built-in items that you'll be taking with you. Place personal items from your bathroom vanity in accessible boxes. DEEP CLEAN Wax the floors, dust everything, and polish metals. Get every single crack and crevice as clean as it can be and remove odd odors. If this seems like an overwhelming task, break it down into smaller tasks and put it on a calendar.  REPAIR THE BASICS If the door squeaks, get some WD-40. If the bathroom needs re-caulked, that's okay. Small projects are good, large ones are not (i.e. you do not need to replace all of the windows in your house). The biggest project you should tackle is painting bright colored walls. Bright colored walls says to potential buyers "this is going to take work." Try neutral colors, off whites and light grays.  SPRUCE UP THE CURB APPEAL Maintain the lawn, pressure wash the exterior, and clean up the shrubbery. Hire a professional or shell out a couple of bucks for flowers or seasonal plants for the garden!

[davelewis]

Three helpful tips for renting out your home

(NewsUSA) - Home ownership has always been a part of the American dream, but that may be changing.  According to an online survey commissioned by the National Apartment Association, 76 percent of consumers think that renting is preferable to owning a home in today's market. Likewise, some homeowners believe it's better to rent out their home than to sell it for less than its worth, if they can sell it all. Those considering renting out their property shouldn't make a hasty decision. Neglecting to weigh the costs and potential risks could put first-time landlords in a poor situation. Moco, Inc., a company that provides screening services to property owners, managers and employers throughout the United States, offers the following tips: * Look at the numbers. Renting might not be the best option. If you're going to lose money each month, it might make more sense to sell, even if you won't get your asking price. Consider all potential costs, including property taxes, income taxes on your tenants' rent, maintenance, and the normal wear and tear your property will experience. Remember that you won't be able to pocket all of the rent money; you will have to put a portion of it back into the property. * Find quality tenants. Nightmare tenants can be, well, a nightmare. Prepare for a careful screening process. Many private landlords can't access the quality screening products available to larger businesses without going through a lengthy certification process. However, you can avoid time and expense by asking your applicants to visit MyScreeningReport.com. The report includes a consumer credit report, SSN verification, comprehensive criminal search, eviction search, national sex offender registry search and an OFAC (federal terrorism database) search - everything you need to determine whether a potential tenant meets your standards. * Use an all-encompassing lease. Whether you use a template or hire an attorney to write your lease, make sure that the lease clearly states your expectations. The lease should state who is responsible for what, when you expect rent to be paid and what penalties you will impose if it is late. For more information, visit www.MyScreeningReport.com.

[davelewis]

What's up in roofs? Metal growing in popularity

(BPT) - It's hard to believe, but the 2013-14 polar vortex wasn't all bad. Sure, it brought North America record cold and snow, in one of the worst winters ever. But the weather phenomenon's silver lining was in persuading many homeowners it was time to forever abandon their conventional roofs for something better. That "something" is the increasingly popular metal roof. According to the St. Louis-based Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA), the residential metal roofing market has grown by double digits in the last five years. Residential roofing experts report metal roofing is winning converts based on its durability, fire-resistance, energy savings, value and natural good looks. "People are getting tired of having to replace asphalt shingles every 10 to 12 years," says Brian Cosyns, president of Metal Roof Outlet in Courtland, Ont., which installs hundreds of metal roofing systems yearly. "People are becoming more and more educated on metal roofing, and are seeing the longevity of it ... after completing [a metal roofing] job, you've made a big difference in appearance, energy savings and the value of the home." The MRA reports non-metal roofs last 17 years on average, but metal roofs can last a lifetime. Though higher in initial costs, they can boost homes' resale value. They can also cut homeowners' insurance premiums in some states by up to 35 percent. Among factors underpinning the growth of metal roofs, few are more important than the roofing systems' fire-resistance, the alliance reports. The product Cosyns' firm installs, Allmet Stone-Coated Metal Roofing, and another brand, Gerard Stone-Coated Metal Roofing Systems, both tout the benefits of their Class A Fire Ratings. This fire resistance adds to particularly high demand for these roofing systems in wildfire-prone areas of North America. The extra durability that stone-coated metal roofing systems provide is identified as another factor in their increasing use. These systems don't rot, warp, crack or break. They are superior to conventional roofing systems in standing up to extreme weather with a 2.5 inch hailstone warranty, Class 4 impact rating, and 120 mile per hour wind warranty. Metal roofs last two to three times longer than ordinary roofs, meaning they can last 40 to 60 years or longer, according to the MRA. While conventional roofs in darker colors absorb the sun's rays, metal roofing actually reflects them. That decreases summertime cooling loads and also insulates against winter's cold, saving homeowners utility costs. Metal roofing's aesthetics are realistic and mimic natural roofing products, experts say. Both Allmet and Gerard stone-coated metal roofing systems offer an array of styles, from natural clay tiles to wood shake, natural slate and asphalt-like shingles. "The shake resembles natural shake perfectly, and the tile resembles clay tile," Cosyns says of the Allmet roofs his firm installs throughout Ontario. Cosyns reports homeowner customers like the functional benefits of stone-coated metal roofs, and really enjoy their curb appeal. "They love the appearance the roof provides the home," he says. 

[davelewis]

Aging-in-place upgrades that look great and make sense

(BPT) - Do the words "aging in place" and "home improvement" conjure images of institutional-looking grab bars in bathrooms and overhead kitchen lights that could illuminate an airport runway? Many people eschew certain types of home improvements for the same reason others refuse to wear hearing aids - the negative connotations of age. Changes in mobility, vision, hearing and stability are a reality of growing older for many Americans. Certain types of home improvements can make your home safer and more comfortable as you age, allowing you to live there longer. From lovely skylights that fill rooms with vision-friendly natural light and fresh air to slip-resistant flooring in designer colors, those "aging in place" home improvements can be beautiful as well as functional. Here are a handful of aging-in-place upgrades that shout "fabulous" instead of "fogey": In the kitchen We all spend a great deal of time in the kitchen, and it's the room where we also do the most work. Upgrades that improve your ability to reach important appliances, enhance vision and boost safety will help you use your kitchen more efficiently for as long as possible. Age-related vision changes can necessitate increasing the amount of light in your kitchen. Task lights and under-cabinet lighting can focus illumination where you need it most, and hide discretely out of sight without disrupting the clean lines and unmarked beauty of kitchen cabinets. Overhead lighting is also important, but rather than opting for industrial-type lights that may cause harsh glare, consider introducing natural light. Research published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology suggests that natural light may be better for aging eyes than artificial light. A skylight is an upscale, beautiful home improvement that can benefit boomers with natural light. Skylights can also help improve indoor air quality. Most exposure to environmental pollution occurs by breathing indoor air, according to research by the Greenguard Environmental Institute. No leak solar powered fresh air skylights, like those made by Velux America, not only provide healthful natural light, they also provide passive ventilation to reduce fumes, humidity and stale air - improving overall indoor air quality. You can increase a skylight's energy efficiency with solar powered blinds. The complete daylighting system, plus installation, is eligible for a 30 percent federal tax credit. To learn more about these Energy Star-qualified skylights, visit www.veluxusa.com. The website offers a skylight planner app to show you exactly how skylights and blinds will look in your home, as well as a tax credit calculator to figure your savings. In the bath Falls are a leading cause of injuries that result in hospitalization of older people. Most falls in the home occur in the bathroom, so taking precautions in this much-used room makes sense. Like them or not, grab bars improve safety in the bathroom. Fortunately, bathroom fixture manufacturers seem to understand the need for products that blend safety and beauty. It's now easy to find grab bars in a variety of attractive finishes and designs that complement your interior decor. Lighting is also important in the bath, and a fresh air skylight can be beneficial in this room. Skylights provide natural light and passive ventilation while ensuring privacy in the bath. If your bathroom is on the ground floor, without direct roof access, you can still enjoy natural light by installing a Sun Tunnel tubular skylight. Flooring is another opportunity to blend beauty and practicality in the bathroom. Replacing slick, traditional ceramic tiles with slip-resistant flooring such as stone, vinyl or textured ceramic tile, can be visually pleasing and safety-enhancing at the same time. Outside the house Navigating from the car to the front door can be fraught with peril for older folks, yet many people dislike the way certain assistive devices, like ramps, look in front of their home. If you're not ready to add a ramp, a decorative railing for outdoor stairs is a great alternative. It's easy to find good-looking options and virtually any home contractor can help you create a railing that meets your safety needs and meshes well with your home's exterior design. Outdoor lighting is also important for safety. Make sure walkways are well lit with low lamps that put illumination directly at your feet. New high-output solar lights are a great way to effectively light a path while minimizing energy costs. Finally, keep concrete sidewalks and brick pavements in good repair. Take care of uneven spots or loose pavers right away, to reduce the risk of falling outside.