Kitchen Renovation

11 Ways to Protect Yourself From Getting Hammered by a General Contractor

Laura

The smell of sawdust wafting through the air, the sounds of hammers and saws, stacks of building supplies, and workers in , it looks like someone is having some construction work done! And while all of the pieces and players are in place and all appears to be in order, looks can be deceiving. In fact, if you have hired a contractor that you know very little about then until the project is completed and proven acceptable, there is likely a certain amount of trepidation…unless, you have done your homework.

Before having any home or office remodel done, it is an absolute must that you take the time to protect yourself and your investments by doing all you can to make sure that your contractor is everything they should be. Sad to say, just because you have spent the time getting an assortment of bids, contacting the Better Business Bureau, checking with state and local consumer protection agencies, the local authorities in regard to any licensing or banding requirements and a host of other background related details, you still need to go a few steps farther to protect yourself from getting hammered at the end of the job.

Write It Down!

Once you have found the contractor for your job, you need more than a gentleman’s agreement. You are making a choice to spend a great deal of money and you need to make sure you understand what the cost will cover. Consequently, you need to get all agreements and promises in writing, before anything else is done. In addition, there is no crime in asking for clarification of any part of the contract you don’t understand. If you don’t understand something or are not in agreement, don’t sign the contract! A general construction contract should include:

The contractor’s name, address, phone number and fax number

A detailed description of all the work to be done

A description of materials-this includes brand names, size, weight, color, etc…

Beginning and finishing dates

Payment schedule. You want to pay as little up front as possible and make payments throughout the course of the project, with the right to withhold payment if at any time the work does not meet your satisfaction. Don’t agree to financing arrangements you cannot afford.

Any guarantees that the contractor is making or warranties regarding the workmanship

A statement allowing you to cancel the contract based on the laws of your state.

A statement allowing you to cancel the contract after work has begun if you find unexpected or hidden problems once the job has been started.

The contractor’s responsibility to secure permits; if you have to get the permit, do not sign!

The bonding and licensing numbers of the contractor

The contractor is responsible for paying any subcontractors, supply costs, equipment rentals, etc. before you make the final payment. If this is not done, you become liable for the charges!

Don’t be pressured into signing a contract that you have not read through or don’t understand!…

Room Additions

The Four Greatest Myths About Eco-Friendly Timber and Bamboo Flooring!

Laura

Myth 1
“All timber is environmentally friendly”
Not true! Tradition hardwood flooring taken from oak, bluegum, brushbox and other varieties, takes between 40 to 80 years to reach harvest maturity yet most will happily live-on for hundreds of years. Because these trees take so long to grow, animals, insects and plant life all have plenty of time to use the trees for homes and shelter and become well established. This means that harvesting of these trees is very destructive to the established life in, on and around the trees.
This destruction is also a lot worse than it could be due to traditional timber being from such large and heavy trees. This means that powerful, heavy and polluting machinery and equipment are needed to harvest the trees, compounding the damage and destruction.
Myth 2
“Bamboo is not as eco-friendly as traditional hardwood timber”
Again not true! Bamboo timber (technically from the grass family), is often described as an inferior flooring product by those who don’t understand it yet it has all the properties of hardwood and takes just five years to reach harvest maturity. It is also more than double the hardness of most hardwood timbers. Due to its light weight and prolific growth it is easily harvested with far less damage done to the ecosystem and environment.
It also doesn’t require re-planting as bamboo shoots will happily sprout again, fully replacing the harvest. This means that bamboo produces about 25 times more wood per acre per year than hardwood forests and it absorbs up to four times the amount of carbon as hardwood timber (Cooperative Research Centre for Greenhouse Accounting).
Myth 3
“If timber or bamboo is certified as eco-friendly then it must be”
Not true! Because of the lack of enforced and other standards in many large timber and bamboo producing nations, this means that quality systems are not in place to ensure that only the best or most “eco-friendly” products are shipped. Much of the time it’s nearly impossible to assess just how eco-friendly timber and bamboo flooring is without the company selling the product clearly spelling-out the international standards their products comply with.
Myth 4
Environmentally friendly finishes are much better than traditional finishes
Not true! Many of the “environmentally friendly” finishes used on timber products such as stains and oils are great for their small environmental benefits but often are not practical when used on timber and bamboo floors. This is particularly true when they are used in high-traffic areas where they won’t tend to last more than two years. This means that they will need to be reapplied multiple times which just isn’t practical in most homes when you have to shift all your furniture out of each room that’s being treated. They are also quite a bit more expensive, costing between 30 and 40% more on average over standard finishes, so it’s another catch that you need to be aware of.…

Room Additions

Working With Kitchen Contractors

Laura

If you are going to remodel your kitchen and you are not a do-it-yourself type of person, you will probably want to hire professional kitchen contractors who will be able to take care of all of the work for you. Before you hire a contractor though, you will need to do some preliminary work.
The first thing that you will want to do is decide on the style of kitchen that you want. If you are doing a full remodel and have no idea where you should begin, you can always hire a kitchen designer who will be able to help. Write down all of the things that you want to change in your kitchen and come up with an overall idea of how you want the kitchen to look. Take your ideas, listen to what the designer has to say, and then come up with a solid plan for the kitchen. If you have no ideas of your own, see what the designer has to offer.
Once you have your plan for the kitchen, you will be able to hire the kitchen contractors you need to finish the job. You can interview different contractors and get estimates from them. Ask them any questions that you might have, such as how long the remodel should take, if they have experience with the types of flooring, counters, cabinets, and fixtures that you want, and anything else that comes to mind. Choose the contractor with whom you feel the most comfortable and offers the most experience. You want to have a good working relationship with the contractor.
Before the kitchen contractors come to start work, you will want to prepare your home. It is a good idea to lay down a pathway on which they can walk without getting the rest of the house dirty. You can use plastic, although cheap strips of carpet are a better idea because there is less of a chance that someone could slip and fall. This protects the flooring underneath as well.
Because remodeling can cause dust, you might want to have covers for any furniture that might be nearby. Move any breakables out of their path. In general, you want to make it as easy as possible for the workers to be able to do their job without worrying about damaging your home.
Remodeling a kitchen can take some time as well as effort, but if you plan early and choose a great contractor, it isn’t that hard!…

Remodel Kitchen

Easy to Implement Kitchen Renovation Ideas

Laura

Is it time for you to renovate your kitchen? Are you tired of looking at the same dingy floor and the cabinets with mismatched hardware? Remodeling the kitchen is popular, and there are many options and kitchen renovation ideas that you can employ that do not take much time or effort.
Consider what type of kitchen you might want to have before you start calling around to contractors though. Do you want to have an ultra modern kitchen, or would you prefer a quaint country style kitchen. You should also consider the amount of space that you have. Knowing what you want ahead of time will make choosing the various pieces of the kitchen as well as the contractor much easier.
To give your kitchen a modern feel, you might want to replace your appliances with stainless steel versions. You can even have stainless steel countertops. They are easy to clean, sleek, and they look great. For a modern kitchen, you might want to have a flat screen TV mounted to the wall. You can watch your favorite cooking shows while you are preparing a meal, or watch the news while you have your coffee in the morning.
You will be able to find many different types of countertops, cabinets, hardware, and fixtures for your kitchen. If you like the cabinets you have and only want to replace other elements of your kitchen, you might still want to replace the hardware. Replacing the handles and knobs on cabinets and drawers is easy, something that you will be able to do on your own in less than an hour. Other easy kitchen renovation ideas are to strip the cabinets and the drawers and then paint them a different color. This is something that most people will be able to do in an afternoon.
You may find that you would rather hire a kitchen designer who will be able to come to your home and help you with the kitchen renovation ideas. He or she will have knowledge of the various types of flooring and cabinets that will look great in your house. You can listen to what the designer has to say, but make sure that you provide some ideas of your own so that the kitchen has some of your unique style. A new kitchen will make you feel great, and it will give your home a brand new feeling.…

Basement Renovations

3 Types of Floors to Choose for Your House

Laura

There are several factors that you need to consider before you decide the type of floor you want for your home. Whether you are building a new house or redesigning your old house, remember that a well-designed place is usually a very pleasant house to stay in as it will have the decor you needed. Once you understand just what it means to have great flooring, you will have a much clearer picture of why it is important to design and select flooring carefully. So what exactly are the types of floors that are available and what are some of their advantages and disadvantages?
• Tiled Floors: Tiles are one of the most popular flooring materials throughout the world. Many people go for these because they are, first of all, some of the cheapest materials available for flooring these days. The tile industry over the years has made remarkable progress in terms of quality and designing of the tiles. Another thing that makes tiles so appealing is the fact that they are very easy to maintain with regards to cleaning and repair work. Tiles are also very popular because they have a way of blending in with almost any type of walls in the house, and they enhance the beauty of the house without much effort being put into the whole project.
• Hardwood: Hardwood flooring is another type of flooring method that is widely used by homeowners from all over the world. This is because of the multiple advantages that it has. The main advantage is that hardwood flooring looks beautiful and adds a certain charm to the house that no other flooring can, and not to mention the hike it gives to the real estate value of the house. However, hardwood flooring is not cheap and you will also need to hire skilled professionals to lay down the floor. Another point to be kept in mind about this type of flooring is that it is not easy to maintain. It requires careful cleaning, polishing and, of course, let’s not forget the dangers of termites. If you do not take care, you just might find your floor eaten right out from under your feet.
• Vinyl: If practicality is your thing when it comes to flooring, then vinyl is certainly the best material for you. Vinyl floorings are the cheapest of the lot and also the easiest to maintain. They are also available in various designs, so if you want that wooden flooring look and cannot afford real wood flooring then vinyl is certainly the way to go. The other thing that makes this a great option for flooring material is the fact that it is very durable. This material can also be used in almost any type of climatic condition that exists in a given area.
These are just a few and most basic of flooring techniques that you can use to make your house a great place to live. The choice however, is dependent on many factors …

Kitchen Renovation

Small Changes Can Work Wonders In Kitchen Remodeling

Laura

The choice to kitchen remodel must include allowing time for the project to be completed properly. Some planning should be incorporated into the preparation for a kitchen renovation, like decisions as to what needs replacing and the products, brands and types of materials to be used. Such planning should happen before the project gets underway. When the assignment to kitchen remodel has been clearly stated and understood, work can begin. Of course, kitchens can be remodeled for many reasons and any of the individual elements in the kitchen can be changed singly or in addition to other alterations made in the room at that time.
For instance, maybe the sink basin and faucet needs to be updated. The homeowner should consider the decor desired in the completed project. If the look is to be modern, one of the popular stainless steel sinks might work well. For a more French provincial appearance, a deep stone basin with a rustic brushed brass faucet might be both attractive and practical, enhancing the entire ambiance of the kitchen.
For a facelift, new lighting and wall color may be all that is needed, so the project will not take long to be finished. Brighter and strategically placed lights can really improve the place where food is prepared. Also, thought should be given to the balancing of color and light. Changing the paint color on one wall to match better with the appliances or in contrast to the cabinetry can make a profound difference.
Actually, color is mood altering. No matter what the transformation elements in the room are undergoing, the colors chosen are always significant. Darker colors can make the atmosphere more intimate. Neutral colors are more calming as are pastels. Light, as well as bright, colors can be exciting and add cheer.
Another thing to keep in mind when improving the kitchen, is that one modification can lead to another. It is important to stick closely to the budget established from the beginning, but that budget should allow for some additions that are needed as the work progresses. For instance, after new cabinetry is installed, it may become obvious that the window treatment originally in place no longer fits.
So, to kitchen remodel, all that is needed is to have one component changed out, but additional renovation may be more affordable and easier to achieve than the homeowner believes. Facelifts can be amazing. Still, even small projects can do wonders and greatly improve the appearance and functionality of the kitchen space.…

Remodeling

Historic Facts About Tiles

Laura

Tiles can be defined as the decor elements that have really faced up all the challenges of time. Their history is indeed impressive, and the ultimate evidence in this sense is any piece of art decorated by tiles. Unlike other pieces of decor, the tiles are considered an international value. As a matter of fact each culture has explored the aesthetic benefits of tiles in so many ways. The evolution of these items can be taken for the reflection of the cultural transformation throughout the entire world, to a certain extent.
The earthenware pottery has witnessed the medieval events. Later on, the tiles have undergone the major transformation of the industrial era. Irrespective of the historical stage, the earthenware pottery is uniquely adjusting. For the time being, the never-ending spectrum of designs, colors and surfaces seems to successfully serve the requirements of the modern technology-oriented era. Considering this undeniable adjustability, we may say that tiles have been standing for a fundamental stage in the decor art ever since the medieval stage.
However, we need to highlight the fact that each historical stage had its favorite. One or few types of tiles have been the shining stars over a certain stage in time. For instance, the applestone limestone is particularly adored by the latest trends in interior decorating.
This exquisite kind of tile is widely appreciated for the natural-looking appearance. Since simple and non-lavish domestic settings are now very popular, the applestone limestone is gaining more and more ground.
Even though the past centuries were dominated by opulence and the tiles of that era are a replica of that particular taste in fashion, now, things are on a different track, in terms of home decor. Along with the decor-oriented advantages both indoors and outdoors, the tiles have kept their value unaltered over the centuries due to various benefits that usually come along with their installation. The primary role of the tile is beyond any shadow of a doubt, the coverage. Thereof, insulation and protection are some of the best reasons people still prefer the tiles to other options launched by the modern technologies.…

Kitchen Remodel

Coordinate a Home Upgrade With Different Rooms and Contractors

Laura

In a time where the housing market is slow, it is easier and more practical to upgrade the home one already has, rather than buy a new one when things start appearing worn and tired. This can be done by combining the projects with several reliable contractors that work well together. They can coordinate the work so that one does not step on the toes of the others or has to rip up work that has already been completed to start their own portion of a project.
Kitchen
Often the focal point of families, the kitchen sees a lot of activity. A kitchen renovation in Northern Virginia can give the entire room a facelift in functionality and decor. A kitchen sink and its surrounding countertop areas should be a clean and functional set-up. A small sink with turning faucets can be replaced with a sink made from one, two or three sturdy basins made from natural stone, stainless steel or ceramics with multiple features added to the faucet area. Replacement counters should complement the sink and cabinets. They should cater to the routines and purpose of the person using them the most. Some surfaces are better for cutting and preparing meats and vegetables. For the baker, rolling dough is easy on some surfaces and not others. One of the more popular changes in kitchen home remodeling is the increase in cabinet space.
Natural Stone Surfaces
Marble, soapstone and granite flooring add a touch of elegance and can upgrade the look and feel of any room in the home. For example, natural stone flooring is easy to maintain, providing a clean finish to hallways, kitchens, bathrooms and even stairwells. It is a practical replacement for damaged wood floors, burnt Formica countertops or cracked ceramic bathroom tiles. Using a reliable granite or marble Northern Virginia contractor to perform the installation assures proper handling of the materials and creation of a level surface. The floor surface can also be coordinated with other natural stone products in the home, particularly in the bathroom or kitchen. This might include countertops, end tables and fixtures.
Home Waterproofing Services
When considering the long-term durability of a home, its foundation and infrastructure are crucial. The telltale signs of water damage are slow to appear. Leaks accumulate and grow over time. Multiple turns of water and moisture affect a home’s roof basement, creating damage more to he walls and foundation. A quality waterproofing Northern Virginia contractor can prevent or repair the bows, buckles and wood rot. Water enters a basement five different ways. Whether practicing preventive maintenance or shoring up an existing problem, a qualified waterproofing contractor can extend the longevity of a home.…

Home Renovation

The Kitchen As a Selling Point

Laura

The kitchen is a top selling feature in most homes. It’s one of the central rooms in the house, and some families spend a lot of time in the kitchen, cooking together and entertaining. So how do you make sure your kitchen is up to date and ready for presenting to sellers?
The answer is to take inventory of what your kitchen has and what it needs. Odds are if you’ve been living in the house for a number of years, your kitchen will probably at least need some updating. The best way to decide what needs renovating is to hire a kitchen designer.
Someone who specializes in the area of kitchen remodeling and improvements can be of great assistance in making these decisions. They may lead you through a kitchen sales showroom so you can get an idea of what a modern kitchen looks like. You may not even realize that your kitchen is out of date, but seeing these examples can really open your eyes and help you choose what improvements need to be made.
Your kitchen should be modern and meet the needs of the average family. It should also have a neutral color scheme. This is important for buyers to be able to imagine how the room will fit in with their own tastes. Having deep red walls may make the kitchen feel warm to you, but it may be off-putting to some buyers.
Make sure you have ample cabinets and counter space. A kitchen with little storage or preparation surface will not be very attractive to a lot of buyers. Appliances may also be a selling point. Modern, convenient, and energy-efficient appliances are important to a lot of people. Fixtures and lighting are also simple changes that can be made to update a kitchen.
When selling your home, keep in mind that your tastes are not the most important thing in a kitchen renovation. Hire a designer to help you keep things neutral and functional, and the improvements you make may end up acting as a great investment.…

Kitchen Renovation

Epoxy Flooring: An Introduction

Laura

Epoxy flooring is a way of sealing and protecting concrete floors. An epoxy coating can prolong the life of your floor, and also achieve a great look. An epoxy floor is created when a protective resin is applied over the top of an existing concrete slab. This epoxy resin is clear, and will create a glossy but non-slip surface. These kinds of resins are often used over specialist flooring like terrazzo or marble.
Epoxy is a hard and durable material, which is why it is well suited to flooring applications. A floor sealed with epoxy will have a long life dealing with a large amount of traffic. Epoxy is also waterproof and dust proof, meaning that cleaning a sealed floor is quick and easy.
For many years epoxy was used in industrial settings for its affordability and durability. Recently, the designer appeal of epoxy has increased. With a wide range of concrete finishes available, as well as choices in resin, epoxy is being used to create great looking floor finishes in shops, offices, and private homes.
Epoxy Floors in the Home
Epoxy is used in many domestic settings. If you are considering a polished concrete floor, a coloured aggregate floor, or other specialised surface, then chances are it will be sealed with an epoxy resin. Many people with allergies or asthma choose epoxy floors because of the low levels of dust and other allergens. Because it’s easy to clean and doesn’t attract dust and dirt, epoxy is also a hygienic choice of floor covering. Many young families are electing for this type of flooring in traffic areas and living zones.
Industrial and Commercial Settings
Their high level of hardness, durability, and economic viability make epoxy sealants a sensible choice for workplaces. For factories and workshops, epoxy flooring can be strong enough to hold a truck without cracking, but also functional for storage, as well as staff. There is no problems with concrete dust, and cleaning is also easy. Epoxy is a good option for hygienic areas such as kitchens and toilets, as it is waterproof and repels dust, it’s well suited to these kinds of areas.
Retail Spaces
Hard-wearing, durable, and affordable epoxy floors are a popular choice among restaurants, cafes, shops, shopping centers, and other retail spaces. It looks great, can take a high amount of traffic, and is also easy to clean up when things go wrong. While practical, epoxy flooring can also be stylish. Choosing a coloured aggregate mix or other designer flooring options can create a wide variety of different finishes.
The Benefits
The cost of an epoxy floor is comparable to that of other flooring types. The real advantage is the durability that these kinds of floors have, along with their good looks. This ind of flooring is also ideal if you have damaged flooring currently. Epoxy can be used to level out problem areas and ensure and even surface. Epoxy flooring is a true low maintenance option.…

Home Renovation

A Compact Kitchen Can Be Efficient, Elegant and Inviting

Laura

Utilize Space Function is first.

Every kitchen requires room for food preparation, while some may also serve as dining areas. Whatever your needs may be, these tips can help.

Fill your space with mobile furniture that will not interfere with cooking.

A folding drop table and wheeled serving cart will stay out of the way until

you choose to use them.

Take advantage of vertical space by installing wall cabinets that extend

towards the ceiling. Using consistent colors will prevent you from a closed-in

look.

Keep pots and pans on a hanging rack instead of inside cabinets. You will

open storage for other items while creating a professional restaurant look.

Store less commonly used appliances (such as fondue pots and bread makers)

outside of the kitchen.

Consider a compact all-in-one pre-manufactured kitchen. These come as one

unit prebuilt. They include the most common kitchen elements such as a sink,

cooktop, refrigerator and counter top. Some will have options for storage area

such as shelving for peripheral appliances (microwave ovens).

Create an Illusion

Now that you have made the most of your space, the next step is to make it seem like you have more.

Recessed lighting will make a space appear larger than it is.

Keep the floor color similar to cabinets and appliances to make space seem

wider.

Make sure the flooring and wall design smoothly transition into the next

room to avoid a choppy look.

Choose sleek furniture that lets light shine through and brighten the kitchen.

Celebrate Your Style

There is no place like home, and no place that feels more like home than your kitchen. No matter how tight your space may be, there is always room for personal refinement.

Match your oven mitts and towels to your kitchen design for style that serves

a purpose.

Hang decorative mugs on a rack for a display that frees cabinet space for

other items.

Use matching utensils for a cleaner look that does not feel cluttered.…

Renovation House

10 Questions to Ask Your Hardwood Flooring Supplier

Laura

10 Questions to Ask Your Hardwood Flooring Supplier Before Purchasing
1. If there are any problems, who do I call?
Most flooring stores will be buying the flooring they are selling to you from a distributor who purchases the flooring from the manufacturer. Sometime, especially with products coming from overseas there is more than one distributor involved. In many cases if you have an issue with your flooring and complain to the retailer they will call the distributor and let them know there is a complaint, the distributor will tell the manufacturer there has been a complaint. In most cases the manufacturer will deny the complaint and if you are lucky they will even send a representative to deny your claim in person. Most retailers would correct a manufacturing problem to make their customers happy because they are the ones dealing with the customers face to face but in reality they do not have the final say unless they want to replace the flooring out of their own pocket. The manufacturer is so far removed from the actual client that they know it is better for their bottom line to deny the claims and assume they will never have to deal with the issue because they are so protected by their warranties. Picture a person at a desk with a pile of hardwood flooring claims on their desk with a big stamp that says “denied”.
2. How durable is the finish?
Durability is probably the most important things to consider when purchasing a prefinished hardwood floor. The finish is what you are actually walking on and must be very durable to have a beautiful lasting floor for years to come. Many imported prefinished floors have very little durability and the finish can be taken off with a few swipes of 150 grit sandpaper. When buying hardwood there are a few ways to test the finish: one would be to take 150 grit sandpaper and rub the finish to see if the finish will come off and two would be to firmly press the edge of a coin against the finish, a quality finish will dent but not come off. Quality manufacturers will have aluminum oxide or better yet titanium oxide hardeners in the finish. Many offshore manufactured products will say they have aluminum oxide in them but actually do not. To test if a hardwood floor has aluminum oxide in the finish simply put the sample in your microwave and if it sparks, it does indeed have aluminum oxide in the finish. I know that may seem a little strange but it’s something worth checking because hardwood flooring is a big investment and you want to know the durability of the finish.
3. What is the structural and surface warranty?
This is a very important part of choosing a hardwood floor. Anyone can put a 25, 30, or 40 year warranty on the finish of their product but the real question is; will they stand behind their warranty. Many large …

Renovation Costs

Tow-Behind Chipper Shredders

Laura

Tow-behind chipper shredders are intended to be attached behind a lawn mower or a large tractor. Chipper shredders can be subdivided into four classifications, there’s the PTO or power take off type, there’s a self-powered shredder, vacuum shredders and the wood chippers. For the PTO chipper, they don’t have their own motor so they’re not able to work as a stand alone shredder. However, this type is most advisable for those who are mowing a larger garden or a commercial farm. The vacuum shredders are towed behind garden tractors. A discharge adaptor vacuum is one of its distinguishing parts. The vacuum transports the shredded organic materials into a large container or a storage bin. The wood chipper, as the name implies, is built for the shredding or chipping pieces of wood. And lastly, the self-powered tow-behind chippers shredders are heavyweight machines for larger pieces of land. They have more specialized feature and are able to grind bigger organic waste materials.
You can check out websites that offer tow-behind chipper shredders. Most of these sites will provide you with all the necessary information that you need regarding a certain brand or model. Comparisons and reviews can also be of help. You can also check out the best models or types that are being widely-used, so you are assured that your pick is the best in terms of performance. But for those who would want o see and feel the product before buying, visiting your local stores or shops is recommended. This way you can compare instantly and most sales persons are well-trained and are equipped with all the information that you need. Compatibility with your lawn mower or tractor is very important, so you know that the chipper shredder works well. To help you choose which one to pick, you can also consider the model or the brand that has spare parts which are sold separately in case one specific part breaks down you won’t need to purchase the whole machine.
The introduction of this gardening tool is probably one of the biggest innovations in the field of gardening, landscaping or composting. You are also able to help the environment if you use such machines. Not only that you can also save money, because you are not obliged to buy commercial fertilizers just to make your garden soil or farm soil healthy. The organic wastes, when properly cultured and turned into mulch or compost can work as an effective fertilizer. However, there are certain things that you need to know so you can be able to produce quality compost out of your farm or garden waste.
Proper maintenance and care are also provided in the machine’s manual. It is best to follow them so you can be sure that your gardening equipment will last longer and function well. Be responsible for the things that make your life and your work easier. That way you are able to save time and most especially money. You can then allocate these savings for more …

House Improvements

Laminate Floor

Laura

A laminate floor offers more options than any other type of flooring. It’s often seen as the best choice for flooring needs, regardless of price, mainly because of its superior selection and the ease of installing laminate flooring. You can be sure that laminate floor will give you the look you want for your home, and probably at a considerably lower cost than what it emulates. With options like walnut, cherry, beech, maple, merbau, and oak laminate flooring, there’s sure to be something you’ll want. Laminate wood floors are a lot more durable than the so called real thing, and are very easy to clean as laminate floor cleaner can be found nearly anywhere and is not terribly expensive.
Introduced to the US market around ten years ago, laminate floor is still fairly new to us. Even so, it has already become one of the most popular types of floor in the US today. Durability, low prices, and ease of installation are among the reasons that laminate floors are so popular. Homeowners throughout the country have purchased billions of square feet of laminate, and even more has been sold worldwide. Wood laminate floor is often placed in new homes in many new subdivisions, but it can also be used as a replacement floor in older homes to modernize their interiors.
Flooring manufacturers have picked up on the wood laminate floor trend quite quickly, and are already producing laminated planks and tiles in a dizzying array of textures, styles, and colors. Installation formats also vary, including click lock, glue down, and floating, just to name a few. With there being so many options as far as installation formats, pretty much anyone can install their own laminate floor, should they so choose.
The companies Armstrong and Pergo have become household names through their laminate floors. Lots of other manufacturers are also making names for themselves by bringing to market surprisingly high quality discount laminate flooring and finishes that would delight any customer.
Armstrong likes to tout their SwiftLock laminate flooring which, like Quick Step laminate flooring, is marketed on ease of installation. Both companies seem to be betting on lots of people peforming their own laminate floor installation. Pergo is quite proud of their walnut laminate flooring, though their maple laminate flooring is also quite popular.
Because of the myriad of choices available to them, buyers often become confused when trying to pick the correct laminate floor for their needs. AC Ratings and various groove and tongue systems make decisions even harder. As laminate floors have not been around for all that long, the options will surely expand and become even more confusing as time goes by. No matter how complicated it gets, though, there will always be someone willing to attempt their own laminate flooring installation.
Wood laminate flooring is available both from the Internet and from your local hardware store. It would be wise to check around so you can see just how affordable it can be, and the hardware …

Kitchen Renovation

Kitchen Hardwood Flooring – Is It a Really a Great Idea to Have Hardwood Flooring in Your Kitchen?

Laura

It is common to have hardwood flooring in most rooms but not in kitchen because of regular wetting on the floor that can possibly affect the durability of the wood material. Most homeowners like this particular type of flooring because it provides warm and pleasant feel that can create additional value to their houses. It seems that bad things would happen to the floor if you insist to install such flooring in your kitchen – for instance, unnecessary cracks and warps on the floor due to the overly exposure to the water.
Should you abandon the idea of having a wooden floor in your kitchen or go ahead with the idea of installing it and neglect the unwanted consequences when it is exposed to water?
The ideal answer is – you can actually install hardwood flooring in your kitchen but you need to take note of few things below:
1. Choose such flooring with polyurethane finish – Be sure that you choose flooring which contains polyurethane finish, which has water resistant properties and it provides long-lasting effect. In addition, such flooring requires little waxing – perhaps 1-2 times per year. Therefore, do not choose unfinished flooring as unexpected wetting of kitchen floor can affect the lifespan of the flooring materials over a long period of time.
2. Choose the right hardwood material – Kitchen is a place where inhabitants would regularly visit especially when someone wants to prepare meal, washing dishes and other daily activities that you can do in the kitchen. Therefore, you need to choose certain species of wood floors such as ash, maple or oak which is more durable than cheery, fir and pine wood floors.
3. Fix any possible holes, dings and dents on the floor – Whenever you have found any holes, dings and dents on it, you need to mend the deformities of the floor before the condition gets worse when it is exposed to high amount of water. It is wisely that you contact a flooring repair service to deal with this issue.
4. Choose engineered hardwood flooring – It is basically made of sandwich of several laminations of wood which includes both finish wood (on the surface) and unfinished plywood (underneath. Furthermore, it is capable to tolerate high moisture conditions which are suitable to be installed in kitchen and bathroom. Apart from that, it can be sanded in order to remove unwanted ding and dents, and scratches on it but it can only be done 1-2 times.
5. Ask help from flooring experts – Before you start installing it in your kitchen, you need to seek professional advice from flooring experts so that you can have a perfect flooring kitchen without worrying about the unwanted effects that could possibly spoil the whole flooring materials.
Hope that you would be able to have your own favorite hardwood flooring in your kitchen by considering these few things mentioned earlier. It is a better option than tile flooring, which is much harder to maintain on …

Remodeling

Floor Damage Creates Financial Problems For Homeowner

Laura

If you’re a homeowner who has a wood floor in their home, I’ve got a story that you definitely need to read. It’s about a family who didn’t listen to my advice and ended up with one of the largest home repair bills that I ever seen. All of this could have been avoided but it wasn’t.
It was probably around 20 years ago, when I was giving an estimate to a homeowner for room addition and I noticed that a small area of their wood floor was damaged and buckling. I told them that this was a sign of moisture and that it should be fixed as soon as possible, even before you build the room addition.
After I gave the homeowner a price for the room addition, he decided not to do it, but I reminded him about the wood floor damage and he told me that he didn’t have the money right now, but would call me when he did. I hear things like this on a regular basis and realize that some things aren’t a priority to some people. Obviously this wasn’t a priority to this man and he wasn’t planning on making any home repairs at this time.
The homeowner said that he didn’t have the money at this time, but you need to think about, what it will cost in the future. The home damage repair bill was just under $10,000 it could have been fixed for under $1000 at the time I gave him an estimate on his room addition.
This homeowner chose to wait until his daughter fell through the damaged wood floor and got stuck. The young girl was fine, but the parents weren’t. They now had medical expenses added on to their home repair bill.
Stuff like this happens every day and it happens to a lot of people every day. If you don’t want to become part of the statistics and you’re not interested in spending a lot of money, you should make any home repairs you can as soon as possible. Especially the ones that create safety problems for your family like floor damage.…

Basement Remodeling

Great Ways to Shop at a Kitchen Store

Laura

If you love your kitchen, you could probably wander through a kitchen store for days. In your mind, you’ll be trying out tile, countertops, and cabinets in your own kitchen, preparing for yet another remodel. This isn’t always a healthy or smart way to shop, though, especially if you ever want to actually get that remodel done. Before you head to the kitchen store the next time around, try one of these shopping methods to help you complete your trip more quickly and get to the remodeling part even faster.
On some trips, you really do just need to look around. This is true if you’re getting ready to do a kitchen remodel but aren’t quite sure what you want to do. In this case, take a notebook. If the store manager will let you, take a camera to snap some pictures, as well. If you’re going to paint your kitchen, grab some paint chips from the hardware store to take along, as well. On this trip, all you’re doing is gathering ideas and taking notes on the colors, textures, and particular items that you like best. Make sure you’re descriptive enough that you can actually remember what you were looking at when you wrote down your notes!
Once you know what you need, it’s time to start making lists before your next trip to the kitchen store. If you’re like a lot of people, your remodel will go in stages. You’ll probably head to the store more than a couple of times during a full remodeling session. Think through all the things you need to do and the order in which you need to do them. If, for instance, you’re painting your cabinets and replacing countertops, you’ll probably need to rip out the old countertops and then paint the cabinets before replacing the countertops again.
Either way, at this point, you should be going into the kitchen store armed with a detailed list of everything you need. Write down measurements, quantities, and as much other information as you can. This way, you get just what you need, and you don’t have to come back to the store when you aren’t ready to be back there quite yet. This will make the remodeling process work more quickly so that you can get your kitchen function and beautiful before you know it.…

Remodeling Contractors

What Type of Wood Is Best for Replacing Kitchen Cabinets?

Laura

Once you have decided to remodel your kitchen, the biggest question you are going to face is what type of new cabinets to install. Today, there are many more options available than when your old kitchen cabinets were made. There are hundreds of door styles to choose from, a myriad of stain options and finishes plus different types of wood which each have their own unique features.
There are five basic types of wood used in cabinet construction. Cherry, Oak, Soft Maple, Hard Maple and Hickory. Oak is the type of wood that you probably most associate with cabinetry, it is very durable and abundant. The grain in oak is a little more pronounced than the other woods and the color will range from a light tan to dark brown. Cherry has also been used for years in producing high end cabinets and furniture. It isn’t as hard as oak but is still strong and stiff and easy to work with. The grain in cherry wood is finer than oak and it can range in color from almost white to reddish brown.
As homeowners looked for new options to get away from Oak or Cherry, Maple and Hickory have become increasingly popular in recent years. Maple comes in two varieties soft and hard. The soft maple from the Red Maple tree or Silver Maple has the consistency and weight of cherry while hard maple from the Sugar Maple or Black Maple tree is harder and stronger like oak. Both of the maples have a very fine grain and tend to be lighter in color than oak or cherry. The hard maple will be a little bit darker than the soft maple.
Hickory is also growing in popularity in the kitchen. Cabinets made of this wood are very strong and durable. The hickory wood comes from the Shagbark and Butternut trees and provides a great deal of color options ranging from almost white to dark brown. Hickory takes to staining very well which will show off the grain patterns and texture. With Hickory you are also getting the sturdiest wood in America, the stuff that the pioneers built their wagons out of.
When choosing the type of wood for your cabinets, remember that even with each individual type there can be a great deal of variation in color and grain pattern. If you have a large kitchen, you might want to go with a darker wood or stain but if it is a small room then a lighter color of cabinets will make the area seem more open. The great thing about choosing wood cabinets is that they are very easy to maintain. Simply wipe them down occasionally with a damp cloth and dry. Do not use too much water because the moisture can damage the wood. Ask your manufacturer for an extra quart of the stain that was used on the cabinets in case you have to do some touch up work later on.…

Remodeling Contractors

Vinyl Flooring Prices – How to Estimate Cost

Laura

When it comes to computing for vinyl flooring prices, it is important to remember that the cost of vinyl tiles or sheets is not the only thing that you need to consider. There are other costs involved in laying vinyl flooring.
For instance, you need to take into consideration labor expenses just in case you do not want to do your own vinyl floor or you need to hire someone to remove your old tiles, carpets or other flooring materials before you can start laying vinyl flooring. Read on to learn important tips on how you can estimate the costs when you change your flooring to vinyl.
The first thing that you need to consider, when thinking of the cost of your vinyl flooring is the price of tiles or sheets. The price of each tile will depend on its size as well as design and quality. Most common vinyl tiles are 18 by 18 and 12 by 12 inches. If you plan to change a huge area, you can also opt to use vinyl sheets, which can either be 12 or 6 feet wide. If you are really on a tight budget, there are $1 vinyl tiles.
However, if you want to make sure that the quality and design will last a long time, you might want to invest in vinyl sheets or tiles that cost around $2 to $5 per square foot. So, if you plan to renovate your 10-by-20-foot kitchen, for example, you will have to shell out $400 to $1,000 for vinyl tiles or sheets.
Aside from the tiles or sheets, you also need to include the cost of labor when estimating your vinyl flooring prices. For simple projects, the cost of vinyl installation can be about $1 per square foot. There are also vinyl flooring suppliers who offer free installation, so you might want to inquire about that.
However, if your sub-floor surface has problems and needs to be smoothed out before the installation of vinyl materials, you should expect higher fees. Be sure to ask several installers so you can compare their fees.
Another thing that you need to consider when computing for vinyl flooring expense is the price of vinyl adhesives.
Although there are vinyl tiles or sheets that are self-adhesive, you may still buy special vinyl adhesives to ensure that the vinyl tiles in areas that have high foot traffic will not easily peel off. The prices of vinyl adhesives can range from $9 to $30.…

Home Remodeling

Repairing Your Home and Keeping the Price Low

Laura

When it comes to home repairs keeping the price low while still achieving your goals can become very difficult. Many times it necessary to use a home repair contractor because the repair is too much or too detailed of a job for you to complete on your own. However it can be very cost efficient if you can find a way to do some of your home repairs on your own. There are many information outlets to help guide you to a successful end of your project. If you have the right tools, the time, and a general knowledge of repair it can be the difference of hundreds of dollars in expense.
There are many small home repairs that must be done every once and awhile around the house that is very beneficial to be able to fix on you own. Most sink drains especially bathroom sinks are gonna clog from time to time. With all the hair that goes down those drains and the general small size of the piping it is almost a given that it will clog up on you. While unclogging those drains may be a very dirty job it can save you a lot of money in the long run to roll up your sleeves and take the pipe apart.
Some other reoccurring home repairs that you will probably want to attempt on your own are: painting, gutter cleaning, wallpapering, tiling, repaving a driveway, and other modern inconveniences. It is very important that before you attempt your repair or remodel on your own you make sure that you have a good idea of how to get the job done. It may end up costing you more in the long run if you start a repair and have to call in outside help in the middle of the project, or if you damage something else in the home.
There might be times when the work that a job takes seems to overwhelming or you may not have the right tooling for the job. This is when you might have to think about bringing in outside help to assist you in your repair. When searching for the right home improvement contractor you are gonna want to access exactly what you want done and how much you are willing to spend on the project. Then you will have to call in different contractors to give you an estimate on the project. Most home improvement companies will give you a free estimate.
It is a very good idea to get more than one estimate to try to find the best price you can. Also if you think you might be able to attempt the project on your own you may be able to get some free tips from the contractor by asking them questions about what steps they will take if you chose them to do the job. They might give you enough information to do the job. If you do end up calling in a contractor you might …

Kitchen Remodel

Kitchen Design Tips – 5 Ideas You Can Do In A Weekend

Laura

Looking for kitchen design tips that will add character and charm, but won’t break the bank? The secret to innovative yet inexpensive kitchen renovation ideas is in the finishing touches. Try these 5 kitchen design tips and see what a lift attention to small details can bring.
1. Open your uppers – Remove the doors on your upper cabinets to give a more contemporary and a more spacious and sand down holes left from the hinge paint or finish natural.
Paint or finish the interiors to match the lower , paint the cabinet interiors an accent color for some extra flair.
2. Splashy Seconds – Transform the look of your kitchen with a new full height tile back-splash. By full height, I mean the space between the top of your lower cabinets to the bottom of your uppers–usually about 18 inches (45 – 46 cm).
Because the area is relatively small, material costs for your back-splash will normally be , you can really cash in on some high-end savings by buying seconds. These are tiles with imperfections–most of them barely noticeable, if at all. I have found great deals on some of the more expensive tiles. Many outfits sell these tiles by the pound…usually 50% to 80% off.
Some clients even request seconds because they feel the flaws and blemishes bring character.
3. Vintage-look Flooring – Add some pizazz with a new floor made of old-school material: linoleum.
Linoleum tiles are easy to to , naturally anti-microbial.
Take a look at what Marmoleum has to offer. Their tiles come in a ton of different shades – including brights like greens, reds and blues. They average about $4.99 US per square foot. Also check out tiles by Mannington and TrafficMaster.
4. Hardware Heaven – Update your cabinets by changing out the knobs or pulls as we call them.
If your cabinets have a natural wood finish, you’ll probably want to find new hardware with the same “footprint” as your old stuff, so that the new pulls cover the old screw holes. If your cabinets are painted, you can fill and touch up any old holes or marks. If there are no pulls currently on your cabinets then the world’s your oyster.
You’ll be amazed at how this simple kitchen design idea can update things. It’s like putting on the right jewelry. Check out your local Home Improvement Center, most have good try an online store like Restoration Hardware for a truly impressive selection of cabinet pulls.
5. Rack Em Up – Install a pot rack and save on valuable cabinet space.
This design idea takes a couple hours. It adds a touch of class to any , I love them because I can always find the pot I’m looking for instantly. Also at Restoration Hardware and available too through Crate and Barrel where they start at $120.00 US.
I hope these kitchen design tips inspire you. I want you all to realize that you can work on your own spaces even …

Bathroom Remodel

Two Reasons to Buy Brazilian Hardwood Flooring – Beauty and Durability

Laura

Anyone who wants to install beautiful hardwood floors in their home needs to take a look at exotic Brazilian Cherry flooring materials. Not only does this wood have beautiful graining and natural color, but it also is one of the most durable woods available. It is especially desirable, because even though it doesn’t dent easily, if a time comes when you want or need to refinish it, it sands easily and takes stain well. These are all characteristics that make Brazilian cherry hardwood one of the most recommended solid wood floors on the market.
Everyone who installs hardwood floors wants them to be durable. You may have seen floors in some homes that are scratched and pitted and thought you’d never want to trade in your carpets for wood. Some woods using for flooring are soft, though, and become damaged much easier than others do. Brazilian cherry is the ideal material to use, because it is so hard. On the Janka Hardwood Hardness Scale, it has a rating of 2820 out of a possible 4000 which makes it one of the hardest woods around. In fact, you really wouldn’t want anything much harder, because even this hard cherry requires some extra effort in cutting and nailing.
Problems with cutting and nailing are obstacles that aren’t difficult to get around, though, so don’t worry. Special saw blades and pre-drilling of nail holes will help your cherry floors become a reality. Although this will create a bit more work in laying the floor, the beauty and durability of the finished product will make the extra effort well worth your while. After all, what’s the point of laying a floor that’s going to start looking tacky after a few months of family use?
Brazilian cherry flooring is available either pre-finished or unfinished. The wood itself can range from a dark orange to a reddish-brown in its natural state. When choosing a floor, you need to realize that the color will probably darken over time. In addition, exposure to direct sunlight can lighten it. Prefinished floors are finished with multiple coats of scratch resistant polyurethane varnish to increase the floor’s durability. After all, any floor will only be as tough as the top surface. Inferior varnishes will become badly scratched making your floor look dull, so make sure that your flooring has the best possible varnish, whether you purchase it prefinished or do the job yourself.…

Home Renovation

Find Ideas in Kitchen Showrooms

Laura

Kitchen showrooms are really fun places for creative home remodelers to be. They’re like an artists’ colony for a budding artist, a film festival for a new director, or a gourmet restaurant for a chef. They are the place where ideas are born, transformed, and turned into something wholly unique. If you’re in the process of remodeling, it’s essential that you head to a showroom to get the latest ideas for your kitchen. It might seem like a silly thing to do, especially if you already have a ton of ideas, but it can actually help you out in a lot of ways.
For one thing, in a showroom, things are already put together for you. This gives you a chance to juxtapose certain popular new items. Maybe you really love dark cabinets, and you really love a particular type of backsplash tile. You might find in a the showroom that those two things are never paired for good reason, or you might see them in kitchen showrooms together and decide that they’re exactly what you want for your remodel. Either way, being able to see things in one place can really help you get your ideas hashed out so that you know what you want in your kitchen.
Plus, kitchen showrooms will have lots of different combination available, so there might be options around that you never thought of before. Many designers, whether first-time homeowners or old-time designers, are stuck in mental ruts. They assume that x and y go together without even considering throwing a or b in the equation. Instead of just assuming that a traditional kitchen must have all traditional elements or a modern kitchen must have all modern elements, creative showrooms can help designers break out of their ruts and into new ideas and unique pairings.
Kitchen showrooms are also great places to check out the absolute latest styles in kitchens. Like other things, kitchens change styles from time to time. For the most part, the basic concept of the kitchen has been the same for a long, long time. The elements that go into a kitchen, though, change dramatically from one year to the next. Colors, textures, and appliances come in and go out of style just like clothes. If you’re determined to have a totally up-to-date kitchen, you should definitely check out some show rooms to see what is in the other “latest” kitchens.…

Kitchen Renovation

Kitchen Renovations – The Pro’s and Cons

Laura

For a lot of people just starting out, whether it be with the brand new house, moving into an older house, or perhaps just living in the same residence the many many years – it is always going to cross your mind…should we renovate the kitchen?
We may as well jump in then and look at some of the cons for kitchen renovations.
Price – a lot of people will not have the money up front to pay for a kitchen renovation. There are some builders and contractors out there who will put you on a repayment plan if available, otherwise the easiest option is to take out financing of some form from a lending institution.
Interruptions – Do many houses these days have 2 kitchens? No. The simple fact is that most families will be at a disadvantage for a week or two while the hub of the house is being torn apart and rebuilt.
Finding the right design and builder – This alone can stump a lot of people if they are quite particular in their choices or they are trying to push into a budget that is outside what they can reasonably afford. One recommendation I can make is to focus on what you really need upgraded, that way you receive the best bang for your buck up front. Surprisingly its the smaller touches that always rack up the costs in any renovation project.
While there are some cons that people deal with, the pro’s far outweigh them in almost every instance.
Refreshed – When the job is done, your kitchen will look simply amazing. It will be like walking into a new house again. The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in the house and as such, any changes (large or small) will soon reflect on the rest of the house as well.
Usability – With a new layout, new tools, cabinets or just a bit of added vibrancy and oomph, cooking in the kitchen will again be fun for all parties involved. Perhaps if you upgraded the stove top and added a cooking grill, then the husband no longer need to spend time outdoors flaming up the barbeque and can enjoy his time indoors a little more!
Show it off! Heck, be proud of what your new kitchen looks like. After all, a new kitchen renovation is probably what you’ve been waiting for, for a long, long time!…

Home Renovation

Why Cutting Electricity Costs Is A Crucial Consideration For You

Laura

By now, we all realize that we are mired in a period of stagnant growth. The economy is not going to bounce back as it almost always does after recessions and it seems as if it may take four or five years before we finally start to see some real daylight. This is why we have to make sure that we are as frugal as we can be and cutting electricity costs is crucial.
Few of us like to think that we waste any money at all and carefully balance the books each month. We might think that we’re doing everything that we can and the prospect of cutting electricity costs even more leaves us wondering what we can do. Many people are in the same boat as you and are not sure how they can make a difference.
Looking for information and doing your research is a great place to start. This is why, after all, you probably found this article. Make a short list of the steps that have already taken in your efforts when cutting electricity costs and compare your efforts to research. You’re almost guaranteed to find additional ways to move forward.
In your house, you typically use a very large number of light bulbs. You may find that many of these are still of the incandescent type rather than the new, compact fluorescent versions. They may be more costly to purchase, but they are very efficient and will last a long time.
Did you know that you can sign up for your local utility company’s energy-saving program? During peak hours when demand is at its highest, the utility company will shut down a particular appliance for short bursts of time. You probably won’t notice the difference, but your power bill probably will.
Landscaping can make a lot of difference as it tends to cut out some of the powerful effects of the sun during those summer afternoons. This is why you should have a good look at your shrubbery and put in place bushes and trees that will help.
Even though you may live in a new home, you will find that settlement has led to cracks appearing in various places. Often, you can find these around doors and windows and they can be the source of significant drafts. Not only that, but your costly air-conditioned air is frittering away. Now it’s time to put in place some of those special draft protector products to eliminate the source of wastage.
It’s all very well cutting electricity costs, but you don’t want to spend an inordinate amount of money on their remedies either. This is why flexible draft protectors are so good, as they are very efficient but truly cost effective.…

Remodeling

Five Steps To Choosing Acoustic Flooring For Christmas

Laura

It’s not just children that may get treated this festive season. You may be considering investing in acoustic flooring for your own Christmas present. If so, here are five steps to choosing the right flooring.
1. Firstly, you need to consider what type of noise you are attempting to reduce. For instance, is it airborne sound? This is the sound that comes from television, music or even talking. Or is it impact sound – the noise made by things banging, slamming or vibrations? Alternatively, it may be flanking sound, such as those transmitted through walls or floors despite not being loud. The type of sound you’re looking to reduce will determine the type of sound control you require.
2. Secondly, it’s important to think about where in your home or workplace that you’d like the flooring installed. You may want to convert the basement into your own music studio or practice room for your band? Or, perhaps you have a spare room that you want turning into a media room so you can play films and TV as loud as you like.
3. It’s important to make sure that you are legally permitted to install the flooring you want. Whether you’re looking to put acoustic flooring into a new build or refurbishment, there may be different rules to adhere to. There are different types of flooring for both new builds and refurbishments, so make sure you choose the right one for your project.
4. You have a number of different options when it comes to what you can do with your floorboards. You may decide to change the existing floorboards to acoustic ones, especially in new builds. On the other hand, you could improve sound reduction by using joint treatments. A third option, which is often chosen because it is less intrusive, is to install overlay boards for your existing flooring.
5. The last thing to decide is how you’re going to install the flooring. This may be something you can do yourself, especially if you’re particularly skilled when it comes to DIY. It may help reduce the cost of your installation. Alternatively, DIY novices may prefer to avoid potential problems by having a professional carry out the installation for a quality finish.
So, do you want to install acoustic flooring for Christmas? Perhaps an alternative type of sound reduction is best? Why not speak to some sound control experts before making your decision?…

Renovation Contractor

The Many Benefits Of Tile You Can Expect

Laura

If you have chosen to remodel or build a new home you realize the vast amount of choices available for flooring. Tile flooring can be a great option for your home flooring needs. Using stone within your home is a great way to add warmth and a luxury feel. Finding a tile to suit your design needs will be easy with the numerous options available. There are many budget friendly options available in tile. Below we will discuss some of the major benefits of adding tile to your home.
4 Benefits of Using Tile Flooring
1. Designers have made natural stone flooring a popular choice. Tile has many uses within home designs. Tile can be utilized as a backsplash, countertop surface, or flooring. For home buyers it is important that their home choice has designer upgrades such as natural stone. Home buyer’s in today’s market want a luxurious feel to their home. Choosing natural stone is not only a great design choice, but it will make your home more desirable and valuable.
2. A common worry about tile flooring is the cold feel of the floor. This is no longer an issue with current technologies. Tile flooring can now be installed with radiant heating. You can control your flooring temperature with a thermostat. You can rest assured your flooring will always be warm and toasty.
3. Another great benefit of using tile in your home is the durability. Tile is much more durable than other flooring options such as carpet. One stain can ruin an entire room’s carpeting. Pets and children can be problematic for carpet. Dirt, spills, and heavy foot traffic aren’t a problem for tile flooring.
4. The ease of cleaning is a wonderful benefit of tile flooring. Small accidents like the spilling of a drink won’t ruin your flooring with tile. With tile flooring you can absorb spills and clean the area as if nothing ever happened. Tile flooring is a solid investment that will stand up to spills, dirt, and heavy foot traffic in your home. You can rest assured that your initial expense of tile flooring will be well worth it.
Tile flooring is extremely versatile. This type of flooring works well in any room whether it is the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, or living room. There are tile designs to suit any room’s needs. To shop for a tile choice you can use the internet or a local store. Shopping online is a popular choice because it is easy and convenient. When you shop online for your flooring needs you can browse right from your home thousands of tile options.
The many benefits of tile make it a no contest for your flooring choice. The benefits of tile dramatically outweigh other options like carpeting. You are well on your way to a beautiful new floor by choosing tile. The many styles available will make it easy to find a suitable tile for your home. Your flooring representative can also be very helpful with your design …

Home Renovation

How to Make a Large Room Feel Cosy

Laura

There are lots of articles and guides you can read about how to make the best of small spaces, but very little about how to make the best of a room that is very large. A lot of people have a large room in their home, especially if they live in a period property and sometimes it can be hard to make them feel warm and comfortable. Larger rooms have a tendency to feel cold and formal.
There are some structural changes you can make to a large room of course. You can divide the room into two or more small rooms. If doing this works quite naturally with the layout of the house, then this can sometimes be very useful. You gain an extra room, perhaps an office, another bathroom or bedroom, and this can often increase the value of your home.
If your room has a very high ceiling this will also make the room feel less cosy and it will be much harder to heat. You could consider putting in a suspended ceiling. This will make the room feel smaller, and it will make it easier to heat, but be careful of losing the character of your unique room.
Making sure the room is warm will help the room feel more comfortable. Check the room for draughts, make sure you have good double glazing, and if you don’t have cavity wall insulation then consider having this put in. It’s a pretty simple job which doesn’t take long, and there’s little disturbance. You may find your energy supplier will have a subsidised cavity wall insulation offer on, so you may also be able to get it a little cheaper.
A large room can be hard to heat. With a fire or a radiator in the room you will often find the heat is localised and there are cold spots around the room. Underfloor heating is a great idea for a large room as it spreads the heat evenly across the room. Thick carpet will make a large living room or bedroom feel cosier, or perhaps some rich mosaic floor tiles. Walking on warm tiles in bare feet is really lovely and looks great. Especially is a large kitchen.
Put a lot of thought into your soft furnishings. The more luxurious and rich the fabric the more cosy the room will feel. Thick velvet curtains will look sumptuous and will also help keep in the heat. A big comfortable sofa with lots of cushions and perhaps some floor cushions too.
Colour can play a big part in making a room feel more welcoming and comfortable. Pale blues and greens are likely to make the room feel cooler so avoid them. White and yellow will make the room feel even bigger than it already is, but rich reds, oranges and darker neutrals will help make the room feel smaller and more cosy. Generally speaking the darker the shade the smaller the room will feel.…

Room Additions

Tile and Stone Flooring

Laura

Tile and stone flooring ranks among the most durable of options that when installed properly can withstand the lifetime of your home and even more. Other than the inherent strength, these offer almost everything that you will ever need for a flooring that is both functional and stylish. Though these choices make up for great investments, there are still essential things about tile and stone flooring you need to know for you and your New York home to fully avail of all the possible benefits. Read on to find out and make the selection easier with information ideal whether you are in Long Island, Staten Island, Queens, Manhattan or Brooklyn.
Tile and stone flooring are basically different materials but somehow meet somewhere. Tiles are hard-wearing floor option of fired clay that comes glazed or unglazed and in a very wide range of sizes, colors, and patterns that make up for unlimited designs. Stone on the other hand is a natural material that owes its exquisite beauty and strength to time and all earthly elements. Some of the most common stone floor materials include granite, limestone, travertine, marble, slate, sandstone and limestone. Stone can also come in the form of tiles-composed of genuine aggregate attached to polymer binder, which can be a relatively cheaper alternate for pure slabs.
Stone flooring can be classified among the high-end choices but nevertheless boosts home value considerably. Though pricey, it can prove to be a great investment so ensure proper installation and hire qualified contractors to handle the job efficiently for you. Tiles offer a very varied price range with costs depending on size, material, and how they are manufactured. Ranking first among the most expensive when it comes to both labor cost and the material itself is stone tiles. Custom-made art tiles are priced around $25 or more depending on the intricacy of the designs. The cost for ceramic tiles stretch between $5 to $20 per square foot with contractor service not yet included. The cheapest you can get is opting for vinyl.
When considering your tile and stone flooring options, it is important to assess the needs and functions of the room where it will be laid out. Each choice has its own sets of advantages and disadvantages. Generally, these floor alternatives are hard with the exception of vinyl tiles that offer resilience. Though most popular when it comes to bathrooms and kitchens, they can also serve living and bedroom areas sufficiently. Certain types like unglazed tiles and marble floors can easily be stained. And the list of the pros and cons goes on, so take time and weigh things carefully to land with the best fitting choice. Other than being practical when it comes to cost and functionalities, your choice will also be a matter of personal taste.
Another very important factor to consider when selecting through your tile and stone flooring options is the long term benefits. If you plan on selling the house in months time, having stones for your …

Bathroom Renovations

One Simple Renovation Can Transform Your Kitchen

Laura

Are you growing tired of the appearance of your kitchen and just want a little change without spending a lot of money? Have you ever considered simply redoing the cabinets in your kitchen to help spice things up a bit? It may sound expensive, but depending on which method you choose it can be quick and extremely affordable. This is a great project for those husbands who want to show their wife how special she is.
There are several different ways to give your kitchen cabinets a makeover. If you don’t have any problems with the layout or design of your kitchen cabinets, you can make them a bit more modern by changing their surface appearance. Simply replace the cabinet doors and drawer fronts and cover the frames with a matching veneer.
Finishes
There are three types of finishes to pick from; plastic laminate, wood veneer and RTF. This will save you money because you can resurface kitchen cabinets for a third of what it costs to replace them. To make the room look better, replace a few of your cabinet doors with stained, etched or leaded glass. This will give your kitchen a fresh, modern look and take away the outdated appearance you may feel your kitchen has.
Paint and save a ton of money
If you don’t have the money to buy new kitchen cabinet doors, or you like the design but just want a small change, think paint. A little paint can dramatically change the look, not only of your cabinets, but your entire kitchen! Make sure you choose paint that can withstand the temperature fluctuations in the kitchen. Oil based paints are the best; they grip better, and they offer a longer lasting, more durable finish than acrylic paints.
Consider removing the cabinet doors completely
The most cost-effective way to renovate the look of your cabinets is to remove the doors altogether. If you are someone who loves order and has no clutter inside your cabinets, this is a perfect solution. Open-faced cabinets offer a country appeal as long as you keep your items well organized. Should you choose to go this route, just clean up the outside framework and add a fresh coat of paint to the framework as well as inside the cabinets. You may want to use a shade of paint that complements the rest of the decor in your kitchen.
Making the room look brand new is easily accomplished by simply changing the knobs, pulls and hinges on the cabinets. Pick from several different finishes, like wrought iron, nickel, brass, or even stainless steel. Whatever you choose for your cabinets, this is a very affordable way to renovate your kitchen without spending more than your budget allows.
Whichever ideas you try, little changes can make a huge difference. If you’re a little bored with the way your kitchen looks, give it a little “face-lift” using some of the tips above! Your kitchen will take on an entirely different feel, and you won’t …

Bathroom Renovations

Do Your Bit for the Environment With Timber Flooring

Laura

Are you planning to renovate your house and refurbish its floors? This is a good opportunity to do your bit for the environment. You must be surprised by the connection between the two. What can possibly be the connection between decorating your floors and making a positive difference to the environment? The answer lies in timber flooring. This is because in this form of flooring, recycled timbers are used that are sourced from forests thereby encouraging more and more tree growth. We all wish to contribute something to the cause of a greener world but our super busy lives hardly give us a chance to fulfill them. Here, we can easily achieve that just by opting for timber while going for a flooring renovation. There are many individuals who feel that if something is environment-friendly, it cannot be good looking. However, this is completely untrue in this case. Timber looks really classy and colorful so that you can increase the style quotient of your house to a considerable extent.
This is not the only reason why you should go for timber. There are other benefits too that it has to offer. Firstly, it is a cakewalk to clean floors made of timber. While renewing your floors, you have to think of the practical side too. You cannot concentrate on appearance alone. It is true that the look will play an important role in defining the overall appearance of the house. However, that does not mean you should sacrifice on the practical aspect. In fact, it is something that you have to take into account in the initial stages of choosing and selection itself. Timber floors are better equipped to battle dirt and dust. Since they have a soft covering, you can easily eradicate dust mites. This is definitely convenient since now-a-days, nobody has the time to spend hours on cleaning floors and tiles. Moreover, it is not possible to spend a significant part of your savings on flooring frequently. You do want it to be a long-term investment. This can be guaranteed in this flooring type.
If you are an Asthmatic patient, you have one more reason to go for timber flooring. The simple reason is that timber has anti-allergic properties. Owing to this feature, timber is also used by professionals in their workspace such as offices, showrooms etc. The eclectic variety of colors facilitates a more inspiring work environment.
However, if you find this option to be too costly, you can go for regular hardwood flooring. Though it has been there for decades, you have no reason to think that it is outdated. There are certain things that never go out of fashion and it is one of them. When it comes to class and culture, hardwood truly scores. Moreover, if you ever sell your house in the future, you can get a slightly higher price just on account of wooden flooring. The best thing about it is that in spite of offering so many benefits, it is highly …

Home Improvement Contractors

Flooring: How To Make The Right Decision

Laura

When it comes to choosing flooring, there are so many options for you to choose from. When you think about what kind of floors you want, there are three things you should consider: the type of room you have, the amount of traffic you have going in and out of that room and what your budget is.
There are five basic types of flooring on the market today that you can choose from: hardwood, laminate, vinyl, ceramic tile and carpeting.
Hardwood floors are a very popular choice. Hardwood flooring will add character to most rooms in your home. Years ago, the old floor had to be taken out before installing the new hardwood floors. But with the advancements in technology, innovations have come along way since then and now hardwood can be installed over the old. Wooden floors are very easy to maintain. When considering hard wood floors, it is important to note that there are three types of wooden floor types available. There is plank, strip and long strip. You should do some research on each one to decide which one is best for your home. You also have a choice between prefinished and unfinished. If you are looking for something practical, then go with the prefinished kind. If you want a smooth surface, then you’ll want to choose the unfinished type.
Laminate floors have the look of real wood but are less expensive than hardwood floors. If your budget is not within the price range for the more expensive wooden floors, you may want to consider laminate instead. Laminate is also better for high traffic areas then the real wood is. Laminate is extremely easy to maintain, durable and is stain resistant. Laminate floors also do not fade. This type of flooring is perfect for households that have young children. Also, laminate floors snap together so it’s easy to install or reinstall them.
Vinyl floors come in a variety of colors and patterns so you can get the one that matches your room decor. With the new manufacturing processes that are being utilized, you can get vinyl floors that resemble tile, wood or stone. Vinyl is not expensive at all and is durable and very easy to clean.
Ceramic tile is durable and resistant to scratches, fire and water. There are various styles of ceramic tile flooring for you to choose from such as marble or granite. When considering tile for your home, think about the different cleaning solutions that you will need to use. Not every cleaning solution is made to be used on tile.
Carpeting has a softer and warmer feel to it. There are a variety of colors and patterns for you to choose from. Carpeting is also quieter, so it is perfect if you live in an apartment and have people that live below you. Carpeting is extremely economical. There are various carpet types that you can choose from such as shag or velvet.…

General Article

Can Pet Dander Cause You to Become Sick?

Laura

More than 70% of households in the U.S. have at least one cat or dog. It is also true that 10% of American have some form of animal allergy.

Pets are such an important aspect of our lives. They offer us great companionship and they can help to reduce stress. People who are allergic to pet dander need to know that there are risks associated with various pets and how to reduce being exposed to pet dander.

What is Pet Dander?

It is among the most significant forms of environmental allergens. Being exposed to this allergen causes the sinuses to become inflamed, which can result in sinus headaches, pressure, and pain.

Bathing your pet every week can help to reduce the shedding and dander that contain the irritants in your pet’s fur. When you bathe the animal it also washes away pollen and grass that is contained in their fur that may irritate your sinus.

Pet dander is related to the health condition called sinusitis due to the allergens that are contained on your pet, mainly in their urine, saliva, and fur. Their skin flakes and danger may cause allergic reactions and that in turn can cause runny nose and eyes, wheezing, and sneezing. Therefore, pet dander removal is critical.

There are several misconceptions regarding pet dander. First of all, it is very important to know that animal fur is not the most significant irritant, but instead, it is the mold, dust, pollen, and dead skin cells that are buried deep within the fur. Also, there is no such thing as a non-allergenic breed of dog or cat that eliminates allergens completely.

Tips To Help You Control Pet Dander

  • Keep your pet out of your bedroom. During the spring, summer and fall try keeping your pet outside when possible. Restricting your pet to only certain rooms in the house can also help to control places where there is dander present.
  • Remind family members and guests who have serious dander allergies to avoid coming in contact with your pet’s fur or their saliva.
  • If your house has upholstered furniture, don’t allow your pet on it, to help reduce the transfer of dander.
  • Thoroughly clean and wash your hands and face after you play with your pet.
  • Buy an anti-allergen dust spray to use when cleaning to help minimize the allergens in your house.
  • Use a HEPA vacuum cleaner when cleaning. They suck up more allergens, dander, and dust than a regular vacuum cleaner.
  • Consider having hardwood floors installed instead of carpeting to help reduce the amount of allergens that can tend to build up in carpets if you are allergic to pet dander.

If there are no animals present but you are still suffering from symptoms you usually experience when there is an animal in the room, then there might still be pet dander contained in the area which is causing you issues. Common public areas such as restaurants, schools, and office spaces might have pet dander that is been brought …

General Article

How to Find the Best Small Home Plan Design

Laura

In order to find the best small home plan design, you need to consider a few things. In addition to picking a plan that meets your needs, you also need to consider the building lot, the natural landscape, and if the plan will be marketable to any potential buyers if you want to sell our house in the future. It’s best if you keep a spreadsheet of your needs, in order to make sure you have a clearer picture.

Living Style and Family Needs: Your lifestyle and family needs will depend on stages of life and any future plans you have for the home. Features that newly married couples look for in a home will be different than some characteristics a retired couple may want. Before you choose a  house design, ask yourself some questions about whether or not you want to have a family and if there will be enough room as your family grows. You also want a plan for entertainment, so you should decide if you want a formal dining room or an open concept layout for big family gatherings.

Privacy: You want to consider how much privacy you want for neighbors and other occupants. If privacy is more important, then consider an L or U shaped design, since these homes provide more privacy when building on a suburban lot. Some homeowners want more privacy for bedrooms, while others may want more privacy for an office space. The plan should be checked for placement of windows to make sure there is still enough privacy. Also consider the outdoor space when looking for privacy. The location, lot type, and landscaping will also be important when it comes to the privacy of your outdoor space.

Home Work Space Considerations: Consider what work spaces you need, such as a workout room or laundry room. If you like to garden, you may want to have a utility room or mudroom with a half bath for easy cleanup. Think of some of your hobbies when choosing a home plan to make sure your space accommodates.

Surrounding Homes: You don’t want to live in a home that is the exact same as another, but the house design will need to fit in the neighborhood. Subdivisions may even have established home styles for the area, so you need to check regulations before you purchase a house plan. A home that is out of scale with the neighbors, whether it’s too small or large, will look out of place.

Choose Based on Layout: Make a decision based on the layout. You want it to feel functional with your daily activities. Don’t let features that you see sway your decision. You should like the living room because it’s welcoming and a great place to gather, and not because it has nice carpet.

Furnishings: Does the plan work with your existing furniture or will you need to buy more? Purchasing furniture can be stressful, so you may want to have something that works with what …

General Article

Why Is the Heat Not Working Right In My Business?

Laura

The mayhem caused by a failure in your commercial heating system can bring your entire day to a halt. No one wants to try and work in an environment that feels as cold inside as outside during the winter. A preventative maintenance program can be the guarantee you need that you’ll never have to worry about heating failures again.

Vents and Filters

The inability to feel the heat your HVAC unit is sending out can signal a problem with your vents, ductwork, or having a clogged air filter. It could be a combination of problems. The unit needs to bring in enough fresh air to send out a supply of heated air. Blockages or holes in the ducts can allow heat to escape in areas that are useless to the intended locations.

Fans and Heat Delivery Systems

Boilers and radiated heat, or fans that force heat through vents depend on the equipment operating quickly to efficiently heat the space. Have the delivery system checked completely if the unit seems to be operating right, yet you feel no heat.

Internal HVAC Repair Needs

Your heat unit could have a problem requiring replacement or repair. An expert in commercial heating equipment can assess the exact needs and have the unit working perfectly in no time. It might be suggested that it’s time to replace the unit if it has a problem that is not fixable.

Begin a Preventative Maintenance Program

Bring your costs down and dependability up with any commercial heating system by placing it on a preventative maintenance program. You will always have an experienced technician handling your unit and doing all of the maintenance it needs to stay in good working order.

Avoiding the problems of a heating system failure during the cold seasons is as easy as entering a HVAC maintenance contract Chicago IL area businesses rely on for regular maintenance and quick repairs. You’ll never have to wait in line for a professional technician again.…

Remodeling Contractors

Great Guide On How To Remodel Your House

Laura

When thinking about home improvements, some homeowners get scared. Perhaps they believe the difficulty, mess, hassle and expense of home improvement are just too overwhelming. However, improving a home doesn’t have to be hard. For the homeowner that takes the time to plan these improvements carefully and learns all they can before beginning, then they can accomplish great things with minimal fuss.

Add weather stripping to doors and windows to give your home’s energy efficiency a big boost. It is a cheap fix that will seal the air leaks around the windows and doors and reduce the cost of heating and cooling your home. You can also reduce the drafts you feel inside your home on windy, cold nights.

Plain lampshades can make your whole room look boring. With stencils, you can brighten them up. Use paint or an ink pad to add designs that be taken from a template, then add them to your boring lampshades. This will give your rooms some personality, taking away from the reality of how boring an ordinary lamp shade can be.

Add some protection to all of your floors before painting. Doing so can prevent paint from staining floors or carpets. One inexpensive and effective way to protect flooring is using layers of old newspapers. Plastic sheeting or inexpensive paint cloths will work, too.

Over time, ceramic tile can stop looking shiny and start to look grimy. A safe, but effective method is by mixing vinegar and water together. Fill a bucket with the solution and easily mop your floor. The solution will wash away dirt and grime, leaving your floors clean again.

If your home improvement project means working near a gas line from a stove, furnace, fireplace or other fixture, ensure that you know exactly where the gas shutoff is before you start working. Exercising extreme caution will keep you and your family safe. Starting a fire or causing an injury during your project is undesirable.

A great way to improve your home is to actually improve your yard through different landscaping tweaks. Your front lawn is the first thing people see when they look at your home, and a beautiful front lawn can impress your neighbors and any visitors. Keep your grass cut and neat, and you may even want to plant some shrubs to make your lawn look even better.

Save money by purchasing a drain snake. You will avoid the cost of buying expensive drain cleaners. Snaking your drain is something you should have someone with experience there for when you do it for the first time. Snakes come in a variety of sizes so make sure you get the one right for your pipe.

Building supplies are valuable and are prone to theft most of the time. That’s why these supplies should be located in a secure spot whenever you are not using them. If your home has lockable doors and windows, keeping them inside is fine. If you house is not complete, and impossible to lock, …

Bathroom Renovations

Tips For The Do-it-yourself Home Improvement Project

Laura

There are so many projects that can be done around the house if you just have the right information to know how to do them. This article can help you complete that home improvement project you’ve been thinking about. Always do research before beginning any project.

Use fans as much as possible to keep your home cool and comfortable in the summer. A ceiling fan does an excellent job of circulating air, thereby making any room much cooler. It also lowers the need for your air conditioner, so you’ll save some money too!

Fun is essential to home improvement. You must be careful of course, but you should still enjoy your work as you go along. It is more likely that you will make mistakes if you don’t have fun with your project. If this happens to you, hire a professional for help.

In order to save money, get a drain snake. It will keep you from having to spend your money on expensive drain cleaners as often. Novices may not succeed at using drain snakes, and therefore it may be wise to ask a plumber for a lesson first. Snakes come in different sizes, so it’s important to know your drain size and buy the right one. Otherwise you may damage your drain.

When performing home improvements in areas with heavy plumbing, (e.g. kitchens and bathrooms) replace ordinary wall board with water-resistant wall board. This type of wall board is generally called “green board” by insiders. It also tolerates moisture better than ordinary wall board, and can also retard mold growth.

If you have no shower in your home, you might want to consider adding one. Showers are more accessible than tubs, and they also reduce water usage. Five minute showers use less than a quarter the water that it takes to soak in the bath.

It can be very expensive to replace your flooring, no matter what material you use. Have you considered concrete flooring? You can pull up the flooring you have and stain the concrete underneath. The stain makes the concrete have a new industrial look that can match any decor.

Get paints that are no-VOC. These paints help reduce indoor contaminants from the paint you’re using for your home improvement. In addition to labels indicating that paint is non-toxic, the no-VOC or low-VOC label is popular with those who are looking to go green because the reduction of specific chemical fumes is good for the environment as well as your health. They are just as effective as regular paints are, and are priced just a bit higher than traditional paints.

When taking on a big home improvement job, make sure your contractor is acting in your best interest. Many contractors will try to take advantage of home owners. Be sure to verify all the potential problems that a contractor mentions a home having.

These ideas and suggestions will allow you to make great improvements to your home. After you complete a project, no matter the …

Home Remodeling

Some Quick Home Improvement Tips That Will Help You

Laura

Many people are timid about taking on any home improvement projects themselves. If you go into your project with an open mind, home improvements don’t need to be so difficult. In this article, we will provide some valuable advice that can give you the assistance you need for any home improvement project.

You should consider purchasing a combo unit if you reside in a condo, apartment, or small house that does not have the room for your washer and dryer. Many combined washer-dryer models can fit in compact spaces or under counters. These machines wash and dry clothes in the same unit.

It can be very expensive to purchase new furniture. Look around at garage sales and thrift stores for some interesting, new-to-you furniture. It is possible to find some wonderful furniture treasures in a second-hand or consignment shop. Some pieces will be in great condition, while others may require a little work and elbow grease to make them just right for you house.

Stained baseboards offer an excellent alternative to traditionally painted ones. Natural wood has a look that is not only classic, but works in nearly every style of home. Also, dings and scuffs are not as noticeable on stained baseboards as they are on the painted ones. There are a wide variety of stain colors that you can explore until you find one that is a right fit for you.

Use nails to drill some holes in your paint can’s rim. The space where the lid fits in the paint can will fill up with paint, when putting the lid on it will go down the sides. If you pound some holes in the top of the can it will prevent this problem from rearing its ugly head.

Opt for a unique coffee table rather than a generic pre-made one. An antique chest or some aged luggage can make for great storage and a great accent for your room. Display some of your books, magazine and accessories on your coffee table for definition. You could also place teacups and add a tablecloth in order to have a country look.

Chipping paint, rotting decks and ceilings which contain water damage can be easily seen when you look through a house you are thinking of buying. Things like roof defects, bad ventilation, or other hidden problems can be located by professional inspectors. Invest some money prior to purchasing a home and save a lot of money in the future on repairs.

Get exhaust fans for your bathroom, kitchen and laundry room. These rooms are susceptible to mold and mildew because of the hot, moist air that exists in these areas of your home, and an exhaust fan will vent the humid air outside. It also prevents rot by stopping condensation from forming inside your walls.

In conclusion, know that you can do home improvement projects and avoid getting overwhelmed. When making such repairs, remember to always keep an open mind. This article provides a good start for almost any …

General Article

Making That Remodeling Dream Come True

Laura

When it’s time to plan a home remodel, it’s great to dream big and take a chance on “thinking outside of the box.” Why do a home remodel? There are lots of reasons why homeowners decide to remodel. For many owners, a remodel is motivated when the normal wear and tear on the home becomes too obvious to ignore. For others, a remodel is a way to add value to a home, and add in details that have long been desired, like a larger kitchen or a living room that takes advantage of a view.

No matter the reason, if a homeowner decides to take on a remodel, the key is in planning it well. This where the dreaming and “thinking outside the box” comes in. Is there a detail that could be added that would make a house much more enjoyable? How about an outdoor kitchen portland or a loft space in a bedroom? How about a remodeled attic that adds charm and extra room to a home? All of these are ideas that can add a lot to the enjoyment of a home, so why not think big?

Meeting With a Contractor

Once the ideas really begin to take shape for a home remodel, it’s wise to meet with an experienced contractor who can lay out the design as you think through your ideas. The contractor will be able to let you know what’s really possible within your budget. Some details might need to be moved around in order to make a plan work more feasibly, but that’s what a design brainstorm is all about. Once the plan has really been worked out in detail, you can start thinking about materials and costs. This can include things like plumbing fixtures, flooring, paint, new curtains, window framing and more.

No, planning a remodel is not a small project, but it can be an exciting one. If done well, it can also add greatly to the value of a home, which is not small thing at all.…

Remodeling Contractors

Home Improvement Tips To Keep You On The Right Track

Laura

How does I begin when it comes to home improvement? Do you need answers? Many people avoid home improvements, as they just don’t seem manageable. This article should help you get back on track with home improvements.

When it comes to home improvement, be sure that you take note of your surroundings and only make improvements that make sense. For instance, having an uncovered deck in Arizona or a sun room that has no ventilation in Michigan would be nonsensical renovations that will have potential buyers questioning your house upkeep decisions. Do what is desired, but don’t go beyond your immediate climate needs.

You can renew the appearance of your walls by spackling small holes and painting. The first step is using spackle from your home improvement store. A little spackle goes a long way when doing these projects. The little holes may be filled with spackle using just a bobby pin. After the spackle has dried, use something stiff, such as a credit card, to smooth the hole until your wall looks smooth. Top with paint. This will allow you to get rid of holes in your walls quickly.

Sit your family down and talk about the safety escapes in your house. People generally panic when things go awry. However, working on a safe route and practicing this route can really help to alleviate the panic involved in escaping. Discuss not only the routes to be taken, but also all possible scenarios.

You can use 3-D tile instead of buying art for your walls. If you use tiles in a few different colors and arrange them in a creative way on the wall, it will add some unusual artwork!

Re-purpose unlikely items for interesting home improvements. For example, a luggage rack can be reused as a side table. Just take glass out of an old picture frame and set it on top, adhering it with permanent glue. Add a lamp and some books and you have a perfectly good side table.

A front porch is a worthwhile place to invest your home improvement efforts. This is where you make your initial impression to your guests. Remove all debris and clutter and add some decorations, such as furniture, lights, or flowers. Your home will be worth more if you make these changes.

One quick way to change the look of your kitchen is with new knobs and handles on your cabinets. Not only are cabinet knobs easy to install, but they also make any cabinet look like a brand new one. If you do add in new knobs, make sure you clean your cabinets so that everything looks better in the end. Put the new knobs on the cabinetry and you are done!

Before starting a new project, you should alert your neighbors of the schedule for your project. Living next to a construction job is a genuine irritation. Neighbors tend to appreciate the information regarding such a disturbance and will surely thank you for letting them know the estimated …

Home Contractors

Tips On How To Efficiently Improve Your House

Laura

No matter if you’re boosting your house’s value or just beautifying it, you need to be aware that a lot can go wrong. Home improvement can be a disaster without the right information. Many projects require the skill of a real carpenter. It is not a job for just anyone. That’s what makes good home improvement advice (such as that given below) so vital.

When designing a renovation for your home, consider the value to you of a personal touch versus the return on investment you will receive upon selling the home. The more personal your renovations, the less likely you will have buyers that wish to purchase it for the price of your work.

Reach for the uncommon if you want to put in an addition that makes your home classier and more sophisticated. For example, you may want to create a library that has lots of built in bookshelves, or to add a wine cellar to your basement. Your guests will be amazed, as well as future prospective buyers.

Prior to adding paint to your walls, cover up each electrical outlet cover with a small sheet of aluminum foil. It is much easier to use foil, rather than tape, and it protects your covers from the mess. Cleanup is so easy! Make sure your paint is fully dry before removing the foil.

When you are planning your project, be realistic in evaluating how much work is involved. Make a comprehensive list of tasks you need to complete. Also, it may be wise to get someone else to take a look at it, just in case you forgot about anything. You can reduce costs if you start a project with full knowledge of its scope.

Before undertaking any home improvement project that involves electricity, either to or from the project, cut the power to the affected areas. Failing to do so can lead to serious injury or even death.

The long blind cords in your home should be cut, tied or put in loops. Young kids and pets could choke of the ends of these cords. Leave just enough cord so you can use the blinds, but don’t leave any that will cause a problem. Just cut it or tie it off in order to prevent accidents.

Individual solar lights don’t cost a lot, but they really are just for decoration. If you require real lighting that can brighten up a path on a dark night, you should spend the money on electric lights. These cost more than standalone solar lighting, but they last longer and work better.

When you mount a television onto the wall using the appropriate bracket, you can free much much needed floor space. The directions for mounting are quite simple and can be done in less than an hour.

Some home improvement projects are surprisingly simple and even fun. You may even find some of them relatively easy. But if you don’t understand how to do it, you will only cause more harm to …

Home Contractors

Home Improvement Advice That You Can Really Use

Laura

Home improvement can be confusing to many people. This article will show many ideas and how to incorporate them into your home. There many things you learn, from putting in a new door to refinishing your staircase railings. In addition to being helpful, doing improvements on your own can be enjoyable. Following the valuable home improvement tips in this article can make your project simple.

If you’d like to maintain the appearance of your toilets, put a bit of bleach into the bowl. Although bleaching toilets might smell bad, it lowers the risk of spreading germs and illnesses. In addition, it improves the look of your toilet. Finally, scented bleach helps eliminate odor.

If you’re buying a new home, look for damage due to rot, chipped paint and more. Additionally, have a home inspector perform a professional examination for poor ventilation, roof defects, structural damage and electrical problems. An inspector will let you know if there are any hidden defects in the home.

Insulation is something worth investing in. You could use weather-stripping on your windows and doors. You can make your home more energy efficient by reducing the air that is escaping from your house. Thus, you will not spend as much on energy.

Use the area between the rafters of your ceiling and the joists of your floor for storing building materials. Large materials and long items can be tucked away easily. Just nail some furring strips across exposed joists and slide the material in.

There are many options that you have when replacing a lock. The locking action is performed by the cylinder. If you misplace your keys and you would like to get a new lock, you can replace the cylinder instead. If you are adding a lock and there is one there already, you should replace the whole thing.

Choosing the right lights for each room usually makes a huge difference. A bright room appears more inviting and warm to everyone. You can also brighten a room by having an additional light fixture installed. Making a dark room lighter can make your whole house feel more livable.

Chair cushions eventually flatten after they are used for a while. Set them out in the sun to bring them back to life. The sun will get the moisture out of them and have them looking bouncy again. Be sure to flip over the cushions, and don’t just leave them out in the sun because the colors can fade.

The caning in many chairs will sag eventually. It’s actually quite easy to repair caned chair seats. Wet the bottom of the caning, using a sponge. Be sure that the water you’re using is warm. Let it sit overnight to dry. Be sure and repeat the process until caning is repaired.

You will learn about doing all different kinds of projects, on your own! All the contractors you see in the phone book learned their trade somehow, so why isn’t it possible for you do the same? By following …

Bathroom Renovations

Save Yourself A Hassle By Following This Home Improvement Advice

Laura

Home improvement plans can really increase your home’s value, both financially and in family comfort. A good way to make sure you do it the right way is to make sure you know what you are doing. Use these tips and advice to make your house your dream home.

If your old vinyl flooring has a bubble, give it a shot! The air in a vinyl floor bubble can be released by slicing it. However, this will only flatten the bubble temporarily. You need to inject it with some new glue though to keep the section held down to the ground. In order to properly do this, you should use glue that comes already loaded inside a syringe.

Good lighting makes an incredible difference in any room. The brighter the room the more welcoming. You can make a room brighter by simply installing more lights. By brightening a dark room one will make the over all feel of the house improved.

Keep a drain snake on hand to save yourself money. One of the biggest advantages is the lower frequency with which you need to purchase drain cleaners. Drain snakes shouldn’t be used unless you are experienced using them. Invest in a snake that’s the correct size or you may damage your pipes.

Add new handles and knobs to your cabinets in your kitchen. Many people focus on the doors without realizing that simply changing the hinges and handles on cabinets can do wonders. Take the time and clean out your cabinets as well when replacing the knobs. Simply screw the new knobs on and presto, you’re done!

No matter what size area you are painting in your home, you should figure out your paint needs before you begin. Do not guess how much the job is going to cost as you could be way off. Be sure you take some time to measure exactly how much of an area you need to paint.

If you feel you want to take on major landscaping projects, make sure to plan your style in accordance with what will best complement your home. Choosing complimentary designs will give a professional and coordinated look to the addition of a new patio or garden.

Hardware isn’t necessarily available from home builders on new home construction. You can get knobs or handles for a low cost online or at a store, such as Home Depot or Lowe’s. Knobs and pulls are easily found in a variety of styles suitable to any decor, and installation is quick.

Paint is the first thing to think about when you’re styling a room. You will have a much easier time painting your ceiling and walls before the flooring is installed. Even if you protect your flooring with the appropriate items you can still splash paint on it.

It can be very rewarding to spend your time doing home improvement. In order to achieve your desired results, it is crucial that you obtain all the knowledge you can on home renovations. …

Home Renovation

It’s Easy To Learn About Home Improvements

Laura

So, now is the time. You’re ready to get into home improvement, right? There’s no better time than now to do this. You might have a variety of questions, but you do not need to worry because this article is going to be your guide. The following article will illustrate techniques to aid in your home improvement project.

Keep your AC unit running great by cleaning your filter. If the filter is clogged, it will make it hard for the unit to cool your home. This could lead to longer than necessary running time and costs. Change your filter on a regular basis; monthly is ideal.

You can take a big bite out of the cost of a kitchen remodeling project by opting to give your existing cabinets a new finish, instead of buying all-new cabinetry. You can use some paint on the base and add new finishing knobs to really update the look. It will bring your kitchen into a much more modern look without the high ticket price.

Instead of laminate floors, consider real wood. Laminate might look passable as real wood, but it can’t be refinished. In about 10 or 20 years time, the floor will need replacing rather than just getting it refinished.

Consider your home and your neighborhood’s character when deciding on updates and improvements. A house that has a style completely different from those surrounding it may be problematic. Your remodeling plans should compliment your house and the neighborhood and not clash.

To remedy squeaks in your floor, utilize construction adhesive. And it takes quite a bit of sweaty work in the crawl space or the basement; however, the end result justifies the means. Use a caulk gun and apply glue on both sides of each floor joist.

Painting is a simple project you can do. A fresh coat of paint can make a house feel brand new and requires minimal output in both cash and time. A fresh coat of paint will also make your home more appealing to buyers if you have any interest in selling your home.

Keep your garage organized by getting yourself some boxes that are plastic to arrange the items by type, size, and how often they’re used. Then, label each box, and stack them at the front of your garage. This is an inexpensive way to make the garage look better, find things when you need them and keep your important items safe from any creatures that find their way into your garage.

Things like the downspouts, gutters and chimneys are often forgotten around the home. Inspecting these areas of your house is important to ascertain they are in proper working order and also to make any needed repairs. If not regularly cleaned, your chimney could catch fire, and clogged gutters could lead to severe water damage.

You should now feel better prepared for tackling those home improvement projects. You may have felt ready, but now you are. It is our sincere hope that these tips have …

Basement Remodeling

How To Have A Remarkable Home Improvement Project With These Simple Tips

Laura

Are you the person everyone consults when it is time to do a home improvement project? What kind of jobs can you accomplish? Reading this article is the first step toward becoming an efficient do-it-yourselfer.

Hire a professional to do a inspection of your new home. This way, you do not have to figure out on your own or rely on a seller let you know about things that must be repaired or replaced if you purchase the home. Enlisting a professional inspector who does not have a stake in the sale is a smart method of keeping things honest.

You have to replace filters when necessary. Not only does it make your home’s inside air healthier, but it also keeps the air and heating unit working properly. Most of the time, a unit stops functioning properly because the filter is dirty.

Use a sponge to do your drywall. Instead of sanding seams in drywall, use a sponge. With practice, a wet sponge is just as effective in smoothing out the seams of a drywall job as is careful sanding. One great thing is that sponging isn’t as dusty as sanding.

Buy metal fixtures that complement your bathrooms; that is a cheap and quick way to modernize. Attractive curtain rods, toilet paper holders, towel racks and cabinet knobs are available in various matching finishes and shapes. There are sometimes packages available that can be put up in one day.

You need PVC cement and PVC primer to attach a pair of PVC pipes. You must use these specific items, since others won’t work. Make sure the surface of the pipes is dry when you begin.

If you are updating or improving your kitchen and will be working in the vicinity of a fireplace or gas line, it is extremely important that you shut off the gas before starting your project. Be extremely careful if you are going to work near any gas installation. Getting injured or starting a fire is not something that you want to happen as a result of your work.

Smart homeowners invest their home improvement money in solid improvements to the home itself rather than decorative items and furniture. The reason is simple, decor and furnishings are taken when you move. Fixtures, on the other hand, are durable and stay in the home, adding to its value and commanding a greater sale price.

One fairly easy way to spruce up a basement is to stain the floor. Using stain on concrete is less expensive than ripping it out, and it looks great. By staining the floor, you improve its durability and cut the time needed to keep it clean. Choose one that will add a shiny finish. This will allow your floors to look great, like they cost more than they really do.

Some people may have some skills with home improvement, but true knowledge takes years of work and experience to gain. You can always learn more as new projects arise. If you have gotten …

Room Additions

Tips For Avoiding An Unpleasant Home Improvement Project

Laura

Your home requires repair work, but you are unaware of how to start. Is this you? Many people avoid starting improvements to their home as they are unsure where to begin. Hopefully you can use this article to get your home to where it needs to be.

If you plan to purchase a home, be sure to get a professional inspection. By doing this, you will know exactly what needs to be replaced or fixed. A third party who is objective provides a great way to keep relations between the invested parties civil, too.

Your kitchen remodeling budget can be reduced greatly if you opt to refinish cabinets in lieu of replacing them. A fresh stain or coat of paint, combined with a new style of hardware, can change the overall look and feel of the entire kitchen. It can give your kitchen a more modern appearance for a reasonable price.

Changing your air filters is very important. It is healthier for breathing inside the house, but it also conserves your air conditioner and heating units. Most of the time these units have issues because the filters need to be replaced.

Sometimes a small room can seem very gloomy, but it doesn’t need to be that way. Let the sun shine in! Clean your windows, and open your blinds. You’ll be shocked at how much more spacious the room appears. Keep rooms free of clutter, and choose lighter, pastel colors for your walls. Your room will feel much less crammed as a result.

If your door hinges continue to squeak after you have tried every solution in existence, you may have to simply replace them. Your local hardware store will carry what you need. Remove the current hinge and replace it with the new one that you purchased. Then, get the hinge parts aligned and put the pins back into place.

Exercise your creativity and come up with a complete home improvement plan before you start any actual work. Getting the preparation out of the way will allow you to place your focus on the work in progress when the time comes. Inspiration can come from anywhere: home improvement shows on TV, magazines, or even features that you notice in your friends’ houses.

Check someone’s references if you’re thinking about hiring them for your remodeling gig. Just imagine you’re hiring someone to work for your company. Call the references and inquire about the contractor and his work.

If you want to install a new screen for your window but are unable to find one the right size, it is simple to make one yourself. You can cut a frame kit to any size of window. After that, it is a simple matter of screen attachment with cording and a cheap tool. Although some windows may use special screens, they can still use an external screen thanks to adapters.

In short, anyone can make home improvements. You just need to educate yourself if you don’t already have experience in something. You’ve …

Home Improvement Contractors

Does One Sized Suitcase Cover All Needs?

Laura

Doing home improvement is a wonderful way to get a lovely home that is suited to your own needs; it can also help you to save money. There may be a lot you have to remember about correctly doing these projects, here is some information to help you keep these in mind.

When improving your home, give the most visible areas the most attention. When you sell your home, buyers will be looking at it, not inspecting its guts. While it is true that some of the most important improvements are not obvious, for the selling of your house you need to focus on the obvious visual ones.

Updating your kitchen appliances can be done on a reasonable budget. You many want a new refrigerator that is stainless steel even though your refrigerator works perfectly; however, this is not a good investment. Appliance paint can be purchased for very little money and can change the color of the appliance quickly. This can easily change the feel of your kitchen in no more than a day.

Prior to starting any home improvement project, enlist the helps of family and friends. If you delay asking for help until the project has already begun, it might be hard to get someone to help. Additionally, it might be hard to complete your task on schedule, and you might experience a great deal of stress.

When you start any home improvement task, be certain not to underestimate the time and money requirements involved. Make a complete list of all that you have planned. You should also not discount the value of second opinions in evaluating your needs and plans. This way you will have all of the things that need to be completed in front of you and perhaps you can save some money.

When planning home improvement projects, don’t forget about your front porch. The porch will will be the first visible area anytime your neighbors or friends pay a visit. Clean up clutter and add nice enhancements such as flowers and flower pots, patio furniture, wood varnish, and light fixtures. You can add value to the property of your home when your porch is nice and inviting.

What do you use to clear out clogs? Not all cleaners are made the same, and some are extremely harsh. Crystallized products are damaging to pipes. If you have a septic tank, be especially careful to use only products that are approved for use with it.

Don’t make the mistake of using doors that are of poor quality and look like it. Your guests will definitely notice your doors. Insulate your door properly to save on energy bills. Also, upgrade your locks for a better appearance.

The tips you just read will help you gain proficiency at fixing things up around the house. You can make your home look beautiful while meeting your needs in a satisfactory fashion. You generally get out of home improvement what you put into it, so long as you are following …

Home Maintenance

Home Improvement In Today’s World. Nothing But The Best Tips!

Laura

Now you are really ready to begin. You have decided to begin your home improvement project. Well, guess what — now is the right time. You most likely want to ask a million questions about how to begin, don’t fret, you can learn here. Here are some hints that can help you begin on improving your home.

When you are doing a renovation, consider the investment. Will the renovation appeal to a buyer in the future? The more personal your renovation is, it becomes less likely that another person will buy the house for what it cost you to do the work in the first place.

If you are planning major renovations around the home, consider hiring a professional to assist you in planning. Unless you are a professional, your plans may not contain the correct function. A professional designer can create meaningful plans that also meet safety restrictions and requirements.

Sprucing up your kitchen cabinets is a great way to update your kitchen without a complete remodel. For a fresh new appearance, install elegant new hardware, replace doors and give the base a coat of paint. Plus, you can do this for a fraction of the cost it would take to replace them!

Baseboard that are stained rather than painted are more appealing. Stained wood baseboards can help to add depth to your room and make it seem more appealing. Stained baseboards will also hide scuffs and dings better than painted wood, and touch-ups to scratches will blend in more easily. A number of different stain colors are available to suit different styles of decor.

For a quick and affordable way to update the appearance of your master or guest bathroom, consider purchasing coordinated metal fixtures. Various accessories, such as towel racks, shower rods and handles for cabinets come in all kinds of colors, shapes and finishes. A lot of places will put these together in a package so you can put them in quickly and efficently.

Write a list before visiting your local home improvement facility that contains all the items you need. When you make a list, it will be easier for you to ensure that you don’t forget anything and have to go back to the store.

Basements typically have little in the way of natural light. Therefore, you should ensure you are properly planning for artificial lighting in your basement so that it appears more attractive to others. If you have luck, your basement has higher walls that stick out from ground level. If so, you may be able to install windows that bring in natural lighting.

The first step to home improvement projects in the kitchen and bathroom is to locate the main water supply and close it off securely. A lot of people overlook this important step and flood their homes and end up with a even higher bill to fix the flood!

You should now feel better prepared for tackling those home improvement projects. You may have felt ready, but now you …

Remodeling

Getting Started On Home Improvements – Useful Advice To Know In Advance

Laura

You do not want to cause damage to your home through your home improvement projects. As such, knowledge is power when it comes to home improvement. The article below has what you need to know to become your own handyman.

There are times when only one little improvement can increase the value of your home. If you are considering selling your home, you might want to think about improving it in a few small ways. You could just give the interior and exterior of your home a new paint job. Weekend job like these are low-cost and can enhance the value of your home.

Buying new furniture can be very costly. You can add some pizzazz to your rooms with nice furniture by shopping local thrift stores and garage sales. You can locate amazing gems among the trash. Of course, some of the deals may need a little elbow grease before they are up to par, but this is a small price to pay.

Believe it or not, you can actually fix the bubbles in the old vinyl tiles in your floor. If your old vinyl flooring has a bubble under the surface, slice it open with a sharp utility knife to release trapped air. This can flatten that bubble at least on a temporary basis. Inject glue into it to hold it to the floor after you have cut it. Stores sell a glue that comes pre-loaded in a syringe just for this type of purpose.

Cover your electrical outlet covers with aluminum foil before painting your walls. It is much easier to use foil, rather than tape, and it protects your covers from the mess. It is also easier to clean up. Just let paint dry before removing the foil and recycling it for other purposes.

Work on outdoor areas, as well. Part of your backyard can function as additional living space. This creates an idyllic outdoor environment for relaxing or cooking out with the family.

Remove or secure the extra cord or loops on your window blinds. Long or dangling cords pose a safety risk to small children and pets, who may become ensnared. Make sure you leave sufficient cord to operate the blinds, but get rid of excess, unnecessary length. By removing it you are preventing a potential accident before it occurs.

Making the inside interior walls of your home soundproof is a sound investment, pardon the pun. It would be quite luxurious to soundproof your entire home; however, this would be quite an expensive project. The crucial areas to keep soundproof are bedrooms, bathrooms and equipment rooms. The kitchen can be a nice area to soundproof as well, unless it’s a fairly open kitchen that attaches to a lot of different areas.

When thinking about replacing the cabinets in your home, look to wood cabinets. They are durable and stand up well to daily use. Wood that is often used in cabinetry is maple, oak, or cherry. They can all be stained and if you …

Home Remodeling

Improving Your Home: Tips For The Beginner Handy Man Or Woman

Laura

Many home improvement projects are easy to do if you take the time to find the right information. In this article, you can find some great tips that might well spur you into completing an excellent home improvement. Take the time to absorb this knowledge and use it to get the best effect.

When you are getting ready to do a big project, hire someone to help you plan it out. Unless you are a professional, your plans may not contain the correct function. A professional will plan for renovations that will meet building codes and will add value to your home.

Even novices can repair leaky faucets. If you are able to find and repair these items quickly, it will minimize the amount of water that is wasted in your home each day. You’ll see the difference on your water bill.

Add value to your home by putting in a bathroom. If you think about it, having a second bathroom is extremely useful, especially if they are on different floors. Often, there will be someone waiting to go to the bathroom if you only have one.

Insulate the attic to save money on heating costs. Because heat rises, houses with bad insulation can lose a lot of heat during the colder months. You can purchase this insulation at a hardware shop and you will be able to install it yourself.

If you have a luggage rack somewhere, you can easily turn it into a side table for your living room. Simply place a piece of glass on top of the luggage rack for an instant side table. Put whatever you want on top, and presto, you have a table!

New fixtures such as handles and knobs for your cabinets can brighten up any kitchen. You’ll find it easy to install cabinets, and they can really spice up the way your home looks. After you have removed the dated hardware, use that time to thoroughly clean the surfaces of your cabinetry and drawers. Put the new knobs on the cabinetry and you are done!

If you are a homeowner, you shouldn’t hire any contractors who don’t have licenses to work on your home. General contractors must have certification of some form in literally every state. Of course, this doesn’t mean your contractor is competent, but is does show that he has the proper credentials. Unlicensed contractors are not insured. This makes working with them very risky.

Soundproofing interior walls can be a great way to add to the value and comfort of a home. Soundproofing the walls may look beautiful and leave a luxurious feel, but not every wall needs such treatment. Bedrooms, equipment rooms, and bathrooms are the most vital areas for soundproofing. Kitchens are generally ideal for soundproofing, but many kitchens are too open to make this feasible.

This advice will let you get started on those projects you’ve been putting off or haven’t even considered yet. There is nothing to match the sense of accomplishment and achievement …