Finding a Professional Tulsa Plumbing Company

We know it can be difficult in these tough economic times when you find out that you’ve got a plumbing problem.  For a homeowner, it can feel like the end of the world to know that you will need to repair or replace major plumbing fixtures in your home.  Here are a few simple rules you can use to find a professional plumbing company fast, without having to pay through the nose.

First, talk to your friends and family about plumbers they have used in the past.  It may sound like a no-brainer, but many people are embarrassed to mention to family and friends that they have a plumbing problem.  By talking to people you trust, you can find out about good and bad plumbers.  Many family and friends will share stories with you about plumbing experiences they have been involved in and you can learn a lot from them.

Now, search through the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for the short list of plumbers you have been researching.  If the plumbing company isn’t listed on the BBB, you might consider avoiding that plumber until you can find out more information.  The Bureau is a good place to find out if there have been any complaints about the plumber in the past and you can review the plumber’s responses as well.

Finally, call the Tulsa plumbing company and ask to speak to a plumber about your problem.  Even though you might not be a plumbing expert, you can at learn a tremendous amount just by speaking to a plumbing professional over the phone.  If you don’t feel comfortable with the plumber after speaking to him or her over the phone, you can cross them off the list and move on to the next company to contact.

Following these simple guidelines will help you find a professional plumber who you can trust. 

Benefits Of Hiring Residential Contract Cleaners

There are several things around the house that are cleaned a lot of time however; they still do not appear to be naturally beautiful, particularly, things like carpets and mattresses. Many people opt to clean or dust their house on their own to save the money they would have otherwise used to get them cleansed by a professional cleaner. What they overlook is that when these home-based things are cleaned in the inappropriate way, they end up being damaged and ultimately requires higher amount of money to fix or replace, than it would have cost to hire professional contract cleaners.


Benefits Of Hiring A Contract Cleaning Service:

There are numerous benefits of hiring a skilled contract cleaning service. The expert cleaners will offer an assurance of good and excellent service and at the same time try to achieve your needs and requirements. This will help in cleaning your house as per your precise requirements and definitely surpass your estimated results. Depending upon a specialized cleaning service can help to save a lot of time and energy, mainly as you don't have to devote time in directing the cleaner because they already are proficient at what they do.

Flexibility is an additional benefit of using residential contract cleaners. The present working set up makes it practically impossible to do anything we would preferably want to do on a regular basis. That's the reason why cleaning services are so important to the average family these days. It offers us additional time to relax and bond with our family as well as friends. You can essentially sit back and unwind while the staff member of the contract cleaning company focuses on keeping your home in order. Moreover, the cleaning services are accessible at anytime you require their services.

Additionally, you are not required to provide them with expensive cleaning materials. The residential cleaning services use their own comprehensive cleaning materials. This implies that you can have a neat and tidy home without having to worry about the materials that are required for cleaning. Also, the cleaning equipments they use are secure and eco-friendly, so you can stop worrying about their quality of services. Another good thing about depending on the specialized cleaning service is they possess the knowledge and the capability to perform the task properly.

Staffs of these companies are reliable and you can be certain that everything in your house will be in safe hands. In addition, most of the cleaning companies are registered hence; you can complain to the administration in case of any mishap in the house.

And, lastly, cleaning companies not only clean your home; they also make sure it remains a healthy surrounding for everyone in it. These companies also ensure they use safe chemicals and non-hazardous cleaning practices. They offer services bearing your interests in mind as well as of the environment.

Overall, hiring the services of contract cleaners will offer you peace of mind and give you ample of time to attend to other daily activities. What's more, you will have a sparkling home and loads of free time for your family.

How to find a stamped concrete contractor in the Oklahoma City?

Summary: Hiring a professional stamped concrete contractor is best if you are
planning to remodel your home flooring.

If you are planning to get the best stamped concrete for your home, you should
only hire the best of the Stamped Concrete Contractors Oklahoma City. But before
you hire a stamped concrete contractor for your job, you must gather all possible
knowledge about the stamped concrete so that when the contractor is in work, you
will be able to know and oversee what is going on and how it should be done.

The stamped concrete is nothing but the decorative concrete that can be used at
homes and office for decorative purpose. The stamped concrete is when you pour
the normal concrete on different places like the walkways and the driveways and
then get it stamped with different textures and patterns.

Such stamped concrete can be of various designs like brick, cobblestones, pavers,
seashells, wood, and many other textures and designs. Any good and reputed
contractor will be able to imitate different kinds of designs on all kinds of surfaces.

When you hire a concrete contractor, make sure to check his previous works. If
possible check out with his previous clients to find out whether they were satisfied
with the kind of work done for them. On the other hand, a concrete contractor should
be able to explain to you why the stamped concrete designs are better used at
homes and the exteriors of the home in comparison to other materials. In fact the
stamped concrete is best suitable for all kinds of flat surfaces. The brick and the
cobble stone designed stamped concrete are good for plain and long surface. While
the contractor is doing his job, make sure that there are reinforcement rods within the
concrete so that they can tie the pavement and the area together thereby making it
stronger and resistant to the regular wear and tear.

It is always recommended that never try stamp concrete designs by self since it
means hard labour as concrete is a very heavy material. That is why it is best to hire
professionals for the job.

Stamping of the concrete is usually done by many people in a group and that simply
means you will not be able to do it on your own. For doing the job properly and also
for making it look good on the surface, it is essential that the project is done with the
help of proper equipments and with proper trained manpower.

The most difficult part of any concrete stamping is the laying of the mats. It requires
many people and tools that can only be provided by a professional contractor.
The contractor would also take care of the maintenance of the concrete floorings,

driveways, walkways etc for an affordable price and thus you would not need to
bother about the maintenance job as well. Thus if you plan to do something new and
innovative for your home, always make sure to hire professional concrete contractors
and get on with the stamped concrete projects. It is certainly much cheaper than that
of laying the cobblestones and bricks, but looks much better aesthetically.

Four Sources of Inspiration

When renovating one or more rooms of your home, it can be very easy to limit yourself to what is available at your local DIY store. Not enough people see this as a chance to really throw themselves into their home and make it their own. If one hasn’t redecorated in a while, for say five years, it’s likely that the person we were then is quite different to the person we are now. In that time, styles and themes have come and gone, and our own interests have probably changed, even slightly. Redecorating has plenty of stress, in packing things up and actually performing the work or having people inside your home to do it for you; it can be a hassle. However, you can make it fun, even if it means a longer period of planning to get things just right, and it will be all the more worth it in the end. It will also mean that your new room will be unique to you as an individual, and probably won’t follow the same pattern as your friends and neighbours.

Below are a few sources of inspiration to turn to so you don’t limit yourself to what is available on the day when you go to the DIY shop:

Movies and Film:

Have no fear; this isn’t any encouragement to turn your house into Pee Wee’s Playhouse, nor any recreation of a room from television or film, as that is quite tacky (unless you’re planning to charge for tours). What you ought to do next time you’re watching a film, is block out momentarily what is occurring in the foreground with the characters, and glance behind them at the interior or their furniture. More independent films tend to go for quirkier choices, and are less likely to have product placement in them (thus you won’t end up with the easy, mainstream choices); instead, they’ll have some more “out there” set designers working on them, and with foreign films, you’ll get a real variety of ideas you wouldn’t be exposed to normally. That doesn’t mean you can’t find great stylistic choices in Hollywood films; for example in (500) Days of Summer, the kooky Summer has a very interesting apartment, which the camera spends time on, highlighting while architecture is a major theme throughout. There will probably be many blogs online where, if these resonate with even a minority group, people will be discussing where they can buy similar pieces, or make it themselves.

Pinterest

Pinterest is the fastest growing social network going at the moment, more so than Facebook and Twitter. Though it is most popular amongst women, there are some fantastic ideas thrown around that will make you go ‘ooooh’. It’s simply a virtual pinboard, separated into categories, where people can pictures, infographics and memes, and “like” and “re-pin” (or share) them. You can have different boards for different themes, and it’s a great way to organise ideas you get as you browse online; rather than bookmarking everything you see and having a huge, untidy folder with broken links, you have everything set out nicely, which your friends can see. Some furniture or fittings stores are on there, and often promote discounts they have on certain pieces, linking you straight through to where you can buy them.

Travels

With smartphones with built in cameras, you don’t really have an excuse not to charge your phone and snap a picture when you see something you like on your travels. This could be a piece of graffiti, or a building you don’t normally go in, and something could catch your eye (I once saw a nifty wallpaper at a job interview, which proved to be a great conversation-piece as I took the picture). You can then take it to a designer who can put something together from that picture. With camera quality getting better and better each year, you won’t have some grainy, blurred photo to work from either, and can share these pictures with friends immediately to get their opinion. With some apps, you can even play around with the colour scheme to get an idea of what something could look like.

Scrapbooking

Traditional but an old favourite a “big book” with cuttings from catalogues, magazines and books. There will always be magazines in waiting rooms and hairdressers, so if you see something that catches your eye, you can rip it out, asking politely first of course. It shows progress, and some people are just more comfortable with a physical document they can hold without relying on technology. It’s nicer to browse in the evening and is an excuse to have friends over to go through it with, rather than emailing. Plus, if you’re someone who flourishes when it comes to organisation, it’s an excuse to get out the dividers and ring-binders.

Paul enjoys finding alternatives of furnishings and other designs he sees in independent films, for his own home. He is currently working on a few home improvement projects, including the new government green deal, which is emphasising the use of renewables, while also going through a renovation of his own home.

How to Choose the Perfect Contemporary Rug for You

Contemporary rugs have been all over the place and have been chosen to be the best rug for home and offices by all the leading interior designers all over the world. There are thousands of contemporary rugs to choose from. There are hundreds of available places to purchase contemporary rugs online as well. However, before deciding to buy one, make sure that you know the best type of contemporary rug that suits your personality and your place, this way, you can get the most out of your money and you can improve the look of your home as well! Here are some tips on how to shop for the best contemporary rug for you!

Tip 1: Measure the Space that Will be Occupied with the Rug

Measure the space where you will place your rug. Then from there, measure how big you want your contemporary rug to be. Measure the dimensions carefully and don't estimate. Be really accurate so you won't waste time in buying and returning the wrong rug. If your space is small, then buy a small rug, if your office or home is big, then you will need a relatively bigger rug as well.

Tip 2: Foot Traffic

Assess your home and office. How many people visit your home? Is there a lot of foot traffic? If there is high foot traffic, then you will need a rug that is very durable. Contemporary rugs are made of many various materials. If there are kids and pets at home, make sure you buy a rug that is easy to clean and that is low maintenance. If you don't have kids and pets around, then you can opt for really high end rugs that are made of various materials.

Tip 3: Design of Your Rug

This is probably one of the most important things you need to take note of. If you have started searching for rugs, you probably know that there are various kinds of contemporary rugs. You should consider the type of furniture that you have. There are basic rules when it comes to combining the colors of your rugs and furniture. There should be one theme that is followed. For example, if your theme focuses on grey and greens, then your rug should be that color as well. If you your wall decorations are wavy and abstract, go for plain contemporary rugs with simple designs. If the decoration in your house is plain and simple, then choose rugs with geometric designs and patterns. The designs to choose from are endless. There are even contemporary rugs with fused designs. This basically means that your whole rug will be a combination of different kinds of rugs. Decide between being fresh and colorful to being black and formal. There are also rugs designed for icons like Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe and a lot more that show their faces in white and with a plain colored background.

Buying a contemporary rug is very easy. Consider these tips along with your budget and you should not have a problem. Enjoy shopping!

Tips on Refurbishing your Office

The environment that you work in is very important. If you are working in an environment that is need of repair of refurbishment, it can have an effect on how the workers feel. Do you realize that people who work in a shabby or outdated office can feel unappreciated and uncomfortable, and that may have effect the way they work? If you work in an office that is in serious need for refurbishment, you may want to have a talk with your boss. Here are some tips on refurbishing your office that you can tell your boss and convince him or her that this is something that can be a benefit to everyone who works there.

The ceiling

Do you have a regular ceiling? If the ceiling in your office is the standard kind, then now may be a good time to look into a suspended ceiling. A good reason to change to a suspended ceiling is that it'll save money on your energy bills. An office is also easier to both heat and cool if the ceiling is suspended. What could be better for the comfort of your workers then a cool room in the summer and a warm room in the winter?

Partitions

It may be time for all of the people in your office to get their own space. By adding partitions, you give workers their own mini office in which they can have privacy, and decorate it with things like pictures of their family. Imagine how morale in the office will grow if people have their own little space in which to call their own?

Furniture

Do you have a small area in which workers can relax? Studies have shown that when there is a little "rest area" set up in an office, people tend to feel more at ease and work better. Imagine taking a break and going to sit on a big plush couch with thick cushions? Wouldn't you feel better knowing you can go unwind by sitting on a big comfortable couch with your feet up?

Storage space

Is your current office full of clutter? You might want to consider adding some places for storage. Adding a few big storage cabinets in a space away from your workers will give them more space and things will be much more organized.

Lighting

It may be time to retire those overhead fluorescent lights and opt instead for more natural light. Instead of having big ugly walls everywhere, try knocking down a few and installing big windows that will allow natural light to fill the office. Studies have proven that being able to see outside can help make the workers feel less stressed.

Working in an office doesn't have to be a chore if you can convince your bosses that it may be time to get the office refurbished. Sometimes an office is starting to get old and there's such things as cracked walls and worn out carpeting. Refurbishing your office is the perfect way to add life to your office and to make the morale of your office workers go through the roof.

Creating Your Own Picture Frames

Pictures are priceless yet amazing treasures, which call for a creative display. Making a craft picture frame is the best way to fix unforgettable memories in the handmade frames. Made to measure picture frames is also a perfect idea of keeping children engaged in activities that make them think differently. If you feel bored on the lazy Sunday afternoons, then making pictures frames is the best way to spend some quality time with your children. Such frames can be constructed from waste materials such as colorful stones, feathers, randomly collected shells,, never-to-be-used cloth pieces, pieces of paper, bits and woolen threads.

Making handmade picture frames for children

Flower frame

This is one of the most popularly used ideas for a picture frame. To make it, you would require cardboard rectangle, colors (crayons or paints), scissors and the photo. Mark the measurements of your photo on the cardboard. Then trace out a nice flower template on the board and cut it out. Now decorate the flower as you like and allow it to dry. You can utilize your wildest imagination and creativity to make a unique flower for decorating your picture frame. In the meantime, cut out another portion of cardboard; slightly bigger in size than the picture. Finally, paste the photograph on it and then put the flower on top. There you are.. Your flower frame is ready to decorate the wall in your house.

Foam frame

The form picture frames usually look colorful and amazing. You can either utilize cut out shapes or form stickers to make decorations on the frame with foam sheets. In making the picture frame, you would need ruler, glue scissors, colored stickers or form sheets, and the photograph. Cut out a piece of foam from the sheet; slightly bigger in size than the picture size. Stick the picture on the sheet with glue. Make a border of contrasting colors and decorate it with cut outs or stickers. You can make stars, flowers, clouds, football and other designs for a decorative Made to Measure Picture Frames. Once the glue dries, create a small loop with the thread on the back of the frame and then use the loop to hang it on your wall.

Potpourri frame

Recycling an old potpourri as a decorating item for your handmade wooden picture frames delivers amazing results. For making the wooden frames, you don't actually need wood. You can use the wooden sticks on the ice cream candies. Clean the sticks and then paint them in any color of your choice. Cut a cardboard piece which is a bit bigger than the picture you want to frame. Stick the picture onto the cardboard and then stick the frame around the photo. At this point, decorate the picture frame with potpourri for a marvelous look.

Bottle cork frame

For making this frame, you need bottle corks, cardboard, adhesive glue and photograph. Cut a piece of the cardboard which is a bit bigger than the picture and then stick the photo on it. Stick the bottle corks on the cardboard to make any design of your liking.

Sites such as Go Frame It provide a huge range of picture frames so that you can find the frame that is perfect for your picture. They also offer a custom frame builder option which allows you to create the exact frame that you are looking for.

Preparing Your Home for the Fall: Preventing Rodents

No one wants pests like mice or rats in their home, but what can you as a homeowner do to prevent
them? When you are investigating pest control options, you will quickly find out that you need to have a
pest management plan especially for those furry pests that might find their way into your home. Not only
do rats and mice spread disease, you’ll discover that they can seriously damage your home. Think about
what you can do to protect your home from these vermin before you need to call an exterminator.

Start Sealing in Fall

You may already know that lots of pests can be kept out of the home through sealing up the cracks and
gaps, but did you know that the best time to do this is in the fall? Plenty of animals make their way into
the home when the weather gets cold. They are seeking warmth and food, and a human home has plenty
of both. Before the cold weather rolls around, make sure that you make the rounds of your home and seal
up every crack that you can find in the foundation. Silicone caulk goes a long way towards keeping your
home in secure from incursions, but you should also consider firmer materials like stucco or cement to
keep pests from invading your home.

Seal Up your Food

Rodents need things to eat, and if you leave your food unsecured, they will find it. First take care of
the obvious problems. Don’t leave things lying around, and keep your fresh fruit in the fridge. This is
something that can make a big difference all on its own. Sweep after meals to get crumbs off the floor and
wash your dishes in a timely fashion. Pour all of your food out of cardboard or paper containers and into
plastic or glass containers. Mice and rats naturally gnaw to get to their food, and they can contaminate
your food very quickly.

Set Traps

If you only have one or two mice, it is worth your while to invest in some traps. Pest management does
involve dealing with pests that already exist, so put out some traps wherever you have seen the animals
in question. One way to make the traps more appealing to your pests is to use a small amount of peanut
butter or mashed potatoes to draw them out. To improve your chances for success, consider leaving
bait in the trap for a few days before setting the trap; this ensures that the animals will be more likely to
take the bait. Skip poisons and other chemicals. There are many chemicals on the market designed for
animals that are quite unsafe for humans. Consult with an exterminator if you feel you need to take a
more aggressive approach to pest removal.

Disposal

If you are engaging in pest control tactics, you will find that you do need to get rid of rodent corpses at
some point. When you need to get rid of them, bag them up in a sealable plastic bag and then place them
in a trash can outdoors. Do not leave them in an indoor trash can, as this can draw other pests. Also, do
not bury them, as this can draw cats, foxes, and raccoons to your property.

Author Bio: Rose McMillan is a retired pest control professional who has worked at multiple pest control companies, such as the likes of Terminix. She now pursues a career in freelance writing and enjoying the outdoors.

Different Vinyl Flooring Designs

Vinyl floors are loaded with advantages, a fact that makes them a preferred choice. Since vinyl is versatile, home owners can choose from a wide selection of this type of flooring. Vinyl floors can be gloss, non wax, wax, textured or sunlight protected. The type of flooring one chooses depends on their preferences and the use of the room.

Prior to making a purchase, it is advisable to know the size of the floor you wish to cover, as well as the type of floor that works best for you. It is also advisable to use the right adhesive to avoid damages and discoloration. With these tips in mind, here are a few insights into the different types of vinyl flooring designs.

Vinyl Flooring Designs

Vinyl floorings are available in various designs. Here is a list of the main types.

1). Printed vinyl sheets

The printed vinyl flooring sheets are convenient and affordable. They are usually made in layers, with the top most layer, also called wear layer, being vinyl. The underlying layer contains the prints or colors, followed by a bottom, backing layer.

High quality printed sheets may contain cushioning, which make them pricey. The main feature of these sheets is that the colors and patterns are not imprinted on the vinyl itself. Rather, a separate material is first printed and a clear vinyl coating is applied. The thickness of the top wear layer determines the quality of the vinyl sheets.

2). Inlaid vinyl sheets

These are high quality vinyl flooring options since they are made entirely of vinyl. This makes them the most expensive choice of vinyl floorings. Inlaid vinyl sheets are not prone to scratches and chipping. When the scratches occur, they are not easily noticeable.

The main feature about inlaid vinyl sheets is the fact that the color or pattern is ingrained in the vinyl. It is not simply applied; it is integral to the sheet. The sheets require professional installation since they are heavy.

3). Vinyl tiles

This is the most common vinyl flooring designs since they are easy to install and can be arranged into any pattern. The tiles are usually 1/6 or 1/8 of an inch thick, and are self adhesive. This gives the home owner the option of installing the tiles without professional help. Vinyl tiles are either inlaid or printed. Inlaid tiles are the same on both sides.

4). Vinyl rolls

These are pretty much like sheets. However, most vinyl flooring rolls are self adhesive, which make them excellent, do-it-yourself projects. They are available in a variety of colors and thicknesses. Vinyl flooring rolls are an excellent choice since they require minimal maintenance and are highly durable.

5). Vinyl planks

Vinyl planks are quite common. They are available in two options; 6 by 36 inches and 4 by 36 inches. The thickness of the planks depends on the manufacturer. However, it ranges from 1.5mm to 3mm.
The planks are easy to install, and are available in various patterns to suit one's preferences. Colored planks can be used to create unique floor designs. Precision grinding is essential when installing the planks to create a seemingly seamless finish.

There is an endless list of patterns that one can make using vinyl floorings. Depending on one's tastes, preferences and creativity, vinyl floors make excellent room decor options.

3 Popular Styles of Blinds for Your New Home

People who are moving to a new home have a lot of things to do. There may be some household
goods that cannot fit in the new place. Leaving them in a self-storage unit can make moving
more convenient. With this, they can ensure the security of their things no matter how long they
keep them at the facility. They may also leave their old blinds there and decide to buy something
more suitable for their new place.

Blinds can create a whole new look in a room. They come with different colors, designs and
materials. Choosing the best blinds can improve the statement of quality in a home. Mini blinds
are a common style of blinds, and they are becoming more popular now. These blinds can be
made of aluminum, vinyl or even expensive wood. They can effectively block the sun’s rays.

Other popular styles include Roman blinds. They are a classy and elegant type of window
covering that can be combined with curtains. This combination creates a sophisticated layered
look. Roman blinds look best when they are made with light materials. With this, homeowners
can use a lining.

Meanwhile, wood blinds are homeowner favorites because of their versatility. Wood blinds made
of teak or oak bring warmth to every room. However, they are more expensive than other styles
of blinds. Bamboo blinds are also a great alternative to wood blinds. Getting a new home can be
very costly, and improving its looks can also be expensive. Installing new blinds is a great starter
home-improvement project.

On the other hand, new homeowners who do not find blinds suitable for their homes may opt for
pull down shades. These window coverings provide the same beauty and softness as curtains.
With this, homeowners no longer need to use a combination of blinds and curtains. Pull down
shades can stand alone. In addition, shades come with different features and designs. New
homeowners will be surprised by the number of options they have. This may include roller
shades, Roman shades, pleated shades and hard window shades.

New homes that do not look good with either blinds or shades may have shutters installed.
These window coverings outperform both blinds and shades when it comes to quality and the
personality they give to the new house. Shutters can change the overall mood of the house. They
do not only add to its beauty. They also provide protection against the bright light outdoors. Most
importantly, these shutters can be custom made. With this, new homes can always get shutters
that will boost their indoor beauty.

Nicole Berenston is a writer for Storage.com Beaverton. Her favorite hobbies are learning to rock
climb and reading. If you'd like to find a storage unit in your area, you can do so here:
http://www.storage.com/self-storage/california/santa-cruz/default.aspx

The Best Flooring for Your Home

At some point or the other you will have to replace the flooring throughout your house. If you want to replace the flooring in your home, then before committing to any type of flooring, some of the factors that you should consider include the benefits, the costs, and the downsides. If you want to choose the best flooring for your home, then you should consider selecting one of the following types of flooring.

1. Hardwoods The cost of hardwoods varies from $3 to $12 per square foot depending on the type. While the price of engineered wood is less but you will have to hire someone to install it. Hardwoods have a nice look and an excellent resale value. Cleaning and maintaining them is easy, and usually merely vacuuming is required. A living room is the best place for putting hardwoods.

2. Tile There are various types of tiles and their price ranges from $1 to $20 per square foot. Depending on how large an area is, you have to pay hundreds of dollars for professional installation. Glazed ceramic tile is resistant to scratches, is water resistant and very durable. Tile comes in various materials, like granite, marble, porcelain, slate, and travertine. Tiles are perfect for a kitchen or bathroom since they are water resistant.

3. Laminate The price of laminate ranges from $0.50 to $3 per square foot and a professional will have to be paid for installation. Laminate does not scratch and/or stain easily, which is an ideal benefit. Laminate can also look like real tile or wood, and telling if it is real or not is not easy. Like hardwoods, cleaning laminate is quite easy. Since laminate is very durable it is ideal for rooms with a lot of activity and high traffic, like a foyer.

4. Carpet The average cost of carpets ranges from $2 to $3 per square foot but it is also possible to find cheap carpets too. At Home Depot and Lowe's you will also find reasonable installation deals. A carpet does not only give a room a soft look but also feels soft too. Carpets prevent echoing throughout a room and are quite to walk on. Installing a carpet is simple and quick, and can even be placed on uneven subfloors. For a carpet, the best location is rooms with low traffic, like bedrooms.

5. Vinyl While the cost of vinyl is less than $1 per square foot but on the high end it can cost you up to $5 per square foot, installation can cost a few hundred dollars. Vinyl like carpet, is easy and quiet on your feet. In comparison to other types of flooring, it is also inexpensive. The laundry room is a great place to install vinyl flooring. When it comes to replacing the flooring throughout the house, there might be many other flooring options that you can consider, but these ones are the most popular.

You can go for a single type of flooring or choose different types for different rooms. So, if you want to have the best flooring for your home, make sure you choose the right type of flooring for the different rooms in your home.

Enviro Mulch

What is it? It’s the matter that is most often seen covering soil for landscaping purposes. It helps
to retain moisture, suppress weeds and regulate soil temperature. Organic mulch can be made
up of grass clippings, hay, straw, shredded bark, recycled wood chips, animal manure and even
old newspaper. Enviro mulch. on the other hand is a type of mulch that is made up of wood
chips from old wood, whether it be boxes, crates or pallets. Enviro mulch is a popular choice
over other types of mulch because it is environmentally friendly, relatively inexpensive and has
many aesthetic qualities.

Uses:

• Enviro Mulch acts as a fantastic weed barrier since it deprives the weeds of the sunlight they require to germinate, inhibiting them from settling into your garden. Mulch also creates a ‘roof’ for your soil, preventing any weed seeds from landing, and growing in your garden. Weeds won’t even be able to come in contact with the soil if there’s a nice thick layer of mulch!
• Enviro Mulch helps soil retain a consistent amount of moisture by regulating the amount of water absorbed. When plants get dehydrated or over-hydrated, they get stressed and stressed out plants never grow. Mulch will keep your plants strong and resistant to disease and insects.
• If your garden is located in hot, dry weather, Enviro Mulch will cool things down. Not only will the soil be consistently moist, but your garden beds will be cooler. Hot plants tend to wilt and die, but a nice layer of mulch will ensure that your soil stays cool and damp.
• Organic Enviro Mulch feeds your soil the nutrients it needs to thrive. The organic matter breaks down over time, adding rich organic nutrients to the soil. Earthworms love mulch, and together they will break down matter to create healthy, long lasting soil.
• Enviro mulch is essentially wood chips that come from any wood waste. Enviro mulch breaks down like organic mulch does, and has great aesthetic appeal. Enviro mulch tends to break down about 30% slower than shredded bark, which means it holds its colour and shape in your garden for longer. Enviro mulch comes in a variety of colours designed to suit any unique garden.

Application:

Adding Enviro mulch to your garden is easy! Simply plant, apply a 2-4 inch layer of
Enviro mulch, and gently rake for an even surface. Be careful not to pile up mulch under each
plant! Creating a little space between the plant and the mulch will avoid too much moisture
being retained right next to the plant which could cause it to rot. Replenishing your mulch so
there is always at least a 2 inch layer will prevent weeds from growing, and ensure that the soil
stays moist.

It is important to use Enviro mulch if you are trying to establish new plants in new or
existing garden. New plants can go through a period of shock if they are introduced to a new
environment, particularly one with no existing root system. The best time to mulch is right after
planting, so the roots can start taking in moisture right away.

The beauty of Enviro mulch is it breaks down gradually and becomes a layer of rich
topsoil for plants and trees to thrive in. You’ll enjoy less watering, less maintenance and more
time to sit back and enjoy the fruits of your mulch’s labor! To learn more about envrio-mulch visit
www.stbpallet.com

Use your Orangery to Get the Most Out of a Rainy Summer

So far this year, we’ve seen a fair deal of poor weather in the UK. While we may
have seen a few glorious days of sunshine, they have been few and far between.
Instead, replaced by torrential rain and even unprecedented storms. The state of
the English summer is on everybody’s lips, this year more than ever. As we look
for ways to lift our spirits, looking to our gardens may not be everyone’s first
thought as the rain lashes down. However there are ways to enjoy the outside
world, come rain or shine, and that is with a luxurious home orangery.

Like conservatories, orangeries allow us to bridge the gap between inside and
out - bringing elements of the outside world in to our homes, and bringing
aspects of our home in to the garden. With this in mind, we can still enjoy the
scenic views our gardens have to offer, sitting comfortably dry in a beautiful
orangery. In fact, many people admit to finding the sound of rain above their
heads soothing, just as long as they aren’t getting wet.

Our mixed climate can even be seen as an advantage to garden lovers. The
English climate gives us the chance to grow some exceptional plants in our own
gardens, more so than in those more typically desired tropical locations. While
our neighbours on the continent may get more annual sun, they don’t have
the rainfall and conditions needed to grow such a wide variety of plants. Now
typically you may wonder ‘what is the point’? when the strong likelihood of rain
prevents us from getting out in the garden to enjoy such scenery? Well with your
own orangery you can sit back and enjoy these plants, even if it is raining.

The design of traditional orangeries are specifically built to maximize natural
light anyway. With their large glass window and roof panels they focus
what sunlight there is in order to fill the space. This allows you to enjoy the
substantial daylight of the summer months, while blocking out the rain. There
are also many window options such as double glazing that help to keep heat
inside and block cold air from entering. This means that even in poor weather
your orangery offers comfort and warmth. It can even reduce the noise of rainfall
which many can find distracting.

So instead of complaining about the rain this summer, why not take measures
to enjoy the summer as much as you can with the construction of a brand new
orangery? It is the best solution for enjoying the outside world, come rain or
shine.

How to Transform your Bathroom

Your bathroom is one of the most important features of your home, regularly used by
everyone and frequently seen by guests.

But is it letting you down? Are tired tiles and a drab design ruining our bathroom?

Here are some top tips on making sure your bathroom stays bang on trend.

1- Build up a plan.
Magazines, TV programmes and showhomes are all filled with the latest styles in
bathroom decorating. Use this to get ideas before you start your renovation. Many
people find it useful to cut out images they like and use them as an base for their
design.

1 – The plumbing.
Stylish fitted bathroom suites are becoming more and more affordable so having
the suite of your dreams is closer than you think. Maximise the available space
in a small bathroom by having a pedestal-free sink fitted to allow storage space
underneath and a combination shower/bath maximises both space and gives you
more freedom. Make sure you chose a colour which will not date quickly, pink
and green suites tend to fade quickly, while classic porcelain white is always in
style.

2 – To tile or not to tile.
Deciding whether or not to tile can be difficult, it is an expensive and laborious
task – especially if you decide to do it yourself. In a smaller bathroom, choosing
to tile the entire room can sometimes be a mistake as it can make it seem smaller.
A current trend is just to tile splash-back areas, i.e. around the bath/shower and
behind the sink, then using a high-quality, water-resistant paint on the rest of the
room. This has a number of benefits 1 – a reduction in cost, 2 – the tiles will be
less overpowering in the room, so the braver decorator could use brigher, more
vibrant tiles and 3 – it is less time consuming to fit.

3 - Design accents
Pick a colour theme for your bathroom and follow it through the room, by towels
and toothbrush holders that match features in your tiles. Add plants and candles to
give your bathroom an extra luxurious feel.

4 – Themes
Many people choose to theme their bathroom i.e. using nautical colours and shells
to give a seaside theme, this can look good as long as it is not overdone. Make
sure to plan any theme like this before starting, a half-completed room can look as
bad as one which has not been decorated at all.

5 – Enjoy

Above all things, your bathroom is somewhere you can relax and pamper
yourself, so make sure you have a room that is just right for you.

The Top Ten DIY Accidents

More than 200,000 people end up in hospital in the UK each year because of accidents that happened while carrying out repairs at home. The beginning of May starts the usual DIY period when all the adverts on TV suddenly become about laying that new patio, replacing your kitchen or bathroom or painting your living room. And as soon as the sun dares make an appearance its off down the local DIY shop or builder's merchant to buy a new tool or or equipment and start on those repairs. 

It is not surprising that a large number of accidents are down to the mis-use of knives, screwdrivers and scalpels and saws, however with power tools now being much cheaper than they used to be and more and more people having access to these, incidents involving drills, jigsaws and other related tools are also on the increase. 

Even hanging wall paper can be hazardous and resulted in around 1500 trips to the hospital in one year and even cleaning windows, with around 30,000 people ending up in hospital after falling off ladders. 

Many of the accidents occur because people do not plan the project properly and rush into the job as soon as better weather arrives. Or they go out and buy a tool like a chainsaw which if used in any other work-related environment would require proper training. 

But its not just the actual tools causing accidents, but the materials people are working with. The lowly piece of wood or chipboard is top on the list for causing accidents, with paving or concrete slabs and blocks next, also nails and metal sheets and screws and even paint and wallpaper. 

The top ten DIY accidents are as follows:

1. Top of the list is predictability cutting yourself with a saw or knife or other sharp tool, most commonly when cutting cables or carpets or slips with the saw when cutting wood. 
2. Straining muscles and your back lifting heavy objects and dropping objects like concrete slabs on to toes and fingers. 
3. Somewhat related to the above, are injuries caused by moving furniture around.
4. Injuries caused by tripping over cables and wires
5. Surprisingly not higher up is falling off a ladder or down steps
6. Getting an electric shock
7. Injuries caused by stripping wallpaper or painting a ceiling or wall, notably paint dripping into the eyes.
8. Allergic reactions to chemicals used
9. Burns from blow torches, paint strippers etc
10. Inhaling fumes or chemicals

Many of these accidents could easily be avoided by wearing simple safety equipment like googles, masks and gloves. At other times people over estimate their own abilities, particularly with regard to work involving gas and electrics. These types of jobs should be left to the expert. 

© Rachel Gawith is a freelance writer and marketer and is currently working for What House and WhatNewHouse promoting their websites.

Home Décor on the Outside

Now that summer is finally here there are plenty of things that you can do outside to make your
house a home.
Leaving flowers to one side, it is easy to create little oases in the garden to generate interest.

Pergolas

A sturdy robust pergola is a lovely addition to any garden, whatever size or shape. A small one
can accommodate a cosy little bench for two, or a large open sided one for al fresco dining.

If you don’t have the money for the wood to build one, then collect branches (offer to do some
pruning for a neighbour) until you have at least twenty supple ones of about 2m – 2.5 m in
length. Sharpen the bottom of the branches and stake them into the ground in a semi circle with
the ‘entrance’ facing a pretty part of the garden. These branches should be arched over and
weaved together with some strong twine. Over time these will harden and set into place. For
extra strength put three branch ends as stakes around the three enclosed sides of the pergola.

House signs

Instead of a boring number on the front of your house, swap it for a beautiful hand painted sign
like this onehttp://trudysilcox.co.uk/. A fine quality house sign will last and last and really enlivens up the entrance to
your home. If you don’t have the money to buy one, then find a quirky piece of wood and paint,
burn or carve your house number or name into it.

Rockeries

There is always plenty of stone around to build a rockery and a large stone pile can add a lot
of interest to a dull corner of the garden. Another idea, if you live near the coast, is to decorate
it with driftwood and other things you might find. If you are really lucky you may discover some
beautiful sea glass.

House of Trees

As opposed to a tree house, you can grow a house out of trees. This is a project for the patient
person, but it can look amazing. Decide on the shape of your house and map it out in a wire or
wooden frame. You don’t have to do this, you can let the house find its own shape organically
over time. Buy some fruit trees with long ‘withy’ branches and plant them at good intervals. In
the winter months, shape the ‘house’ by tying the branches to the frame with soft materials.
When the branches grow out in a direction you don’t want, either bend them back in to shape or
trim them off. You can use dead branches to fill in the gaps until the house has grown into the
space.

Enjoy your garden. It will beguile you and bring you closer to nature.

Redecorating the Home By Using Things for Different Purposes

Making home improvements may seem out of reach when you’re living on a budget. However, there
are many ways to change the look and feel of your home without spending any money at all. By using
things you already have around the house, you can update your decor with unique home accents.

Beautify the Bookshelves

Chances are you have a cluttered bookshelf or two in your home. Whether you love the classics or
prefer contemporary literature, book collections have a way of outgrowing shelf space. Instead of trying
to squeeze another shelving unit into your living room or bedroom, make the most of what you have by
looking at the books as decorations as well as good reading. Try rearranging volumes by height or color.
Stack some horizontally rather than placing everything side by side, or alternate large and small books
for an eye-catching change.

Bookshelves also make great places to display your favorite decor items. If you have knickknacks, flower
arrangements or treasured photos that have been sitting in the same places for ages, make space for
them on the bookshelves to break up the rows of volumes. You can even use large knickknacks as
unique bookends.

Make Use of Glassware

Everyone has an empty bottle or two on hand. You might also have some old cups, glasses or mugs that
are taking up cabinet space. Gather these together and see what various shapes, sizes and colors you
have. Pick out your favorites to use as unique decorations.

Bottles with thin necks make great candle holders for funky drip candles or traditional tapers. If you
prefer the look of flowers, use bottles as vases or get some inexpensive cloth flowers and create an
arrangement that will last for years. Tall glasses make lovely vases as well, and even mugs can be used
to hold small arrangements of your favorite wildflowers during summer months.

Turn shallow cups and glass mugs into interesting accent pieces by placing a layer of marbles, stones or
even dried beans at the bottom and tucking a brightly colored votive candle inside. Or layer different
colors of your chosen materials for an eye-catching effect.

Get Crafty

Don’t throw out those scraps of yarn or bits of fabric and paper left over from past craft projects. They
can be used to dress up common household items. Collect a few different materials in contrasting
colors, grab some craft glue and try some of these fun projects:

• Turn an old lampshade into a beautiful collage

• Glue buttons, small toys, or pieces of old wallpaper along shelves in a child’s room

• Deck out large frames with accents that complement the pictures or paintings inside

• Grab a big flowerpot, give it a crazy design, turn it upside down and use it as an accent table

Budget restrictions don’t have to keep you from having a beautiful home. Simply taking stock of what
you have on hand can turn up all kinds of interesting decor ideas that won’t cost you a penny.

Trevor Price is a writer and marketer for Sunburst Shutters. When he’s not writing Trevor enjoys reading
and the outdoors. Connect with Trevor on Google +. Sunburst Shutters has built shutters and custom
window coverings for customers across the United States since the 1970’s.

Easy Tips on Revitalizing your Deck

Now that summer is upon us, it’s only natural that we spend more time outdoors to enjoy the sun. Many
individuals choose to enjoy the summer outside, such as the pool, the beach or the backyard. But for
homeowners, the deck is a natural draw for a variety of purposes, whether it is entertaining, sunbathing
or simply just relaxing. However, you’ll have to make sure that your deck is ready for these activities
and the months coming ahead. The following tips can help you make sure that your deck is ready for the
summer:

Clean

This outdoor space is a great area for parties, small gatherings and sole enjoyment. However, it’s
difficult to utilize the deck if it is a sight for sore eyes. Therefore, one of the first steps that homeowners
should take is to clean their deck properly. Before starting to clean a deck, make sure that you remove
all furnishing and objects from the area. Sweep for any loose debris, such as dirt and leaves, followed
by rinsing the deck off with a pressure cleaner. In addition, you may want to use products such as deck
cleaners, stains or sealers in order to give your deck a more comprehensive cleaning. But make sure that
you understand which products are best for the type and material used for the deck.

Furnish

Once the deck is in spotless condition, the next step is to make it flourish with furniture. However, the
amount of furnishings on a deck depends on a number of factors:

What is the size of your deck? If your home boasts a sizable deck, then you may have more freedom
when it comes to choosing furnishings. However, keep in mind that the more furniture you have, the
more upkeep it will require. On the other hand, if your deck is of a modest size, then you may need to
be more efficient with your space.

What is your intended purpose for your deck? If you tend to be more of the entertaining type, then
there are a variety of furnishings that can aid with this purpose. For example, tables and multiple chairs
are essential for hosting parties. A BBQ grill or deck bar are also great ways to boost your party to
another level. However, if you’re more of the relaxing type, then you may want your deck to reflect this
sensibility. Comfortable lounge chairs or Ottomans are great ways to relax, read, or enjoy the sun. Side
tables are also a welcome addition, perfect for holding a book or a cool glass of your favorite drink.

Decorate

There are a variety of ways in which you can brighten up your deck and give it a more personalized
feel. Pillows, seat covers, and throws are a great way to add color and comfort to your space. Lighting
is also an important factor, as it can set the mood and atmosphere of parties and nighttime activities.
Homeowners should also keep umbrellas in mind, a vital addition to any deck preparing for hot, sunny
months. Finally, adding potted plants can add beauty and nature, adding to the environment of summer
on your deck.

DIY Pool Fence

If you have just purchased and/or installed a pool in the privacy of your property, it is usually required to have a fence installed as a safety measure. Pools are a prime attraction for children and although fences are not 100% foolproof, they do provide a measure of safety in keeping kids, pets, and uninvited guests away. Depending on the style, size, and work involved in getting your new fence installed, you can end up paying a tidy sum to get the job done. There are, however, alternatives that will save you quite a bit of money if you are willing to put in extra work. If you are one of these people, then you might want to consider investing in a mesh pool fence.

Mesh pool fences are optimal for self-installation because they are relatively easy to install, and they are harder for children to climb over. Most mesh fences are either 12 feet across and 4 feet high or 10 feet long and 5 feet high. It is common to install the taller fence, as most children who could hop over a fence that size will know about pool safety standards. The fence consists of a thick thread that, unlike a chain fence, makes it hard for kids to climb onto and over into your pool. Installation can be completed in three steps as follows.

Measure where posts will be drilled

Before you drill holes into the ground for your fence posts, determine how much space you’d like between your pool and the fence, and measure out the appropriate distances between fence posts so that there is no slack in the fiber thread.

Insert post sleeves into ground

Once you have drilled holes into the ground, use your hands to place the post sleeves about 80% into the holes. Afterwards use a hammer or mallet to inject the remaining sleeve into the hole. If the sleeve gives you trouble, remove it and check for anything blocking it and perhaps drill again to make proper room.

Set posts securely in sleeves

For your final step, unroll your mesh fence one post at a time and fit smugly into the sleeves. Ensure that the fence is secure and that there is no lack in the thread, or that the integrity is in doubt. Once you have done this, then you have successfully built a do-it-yourself pool fence.

Cheap Furniture - How To Go About Getting It

Just as the fullness of the stomach is food, the fullness of any home is its furniture and there is always that belief at the back of the mind of every homemaker that good things are expensive. For a family that wants cheap furniture for their home the phrase cheap is expensive might hurt but the truth of the matter is that cheap simply means buying something at the lowest price possible.

The first and best place to search for cheap furniture is the internet. This is because you will be able to save a lot of time that could have been spent on going from one store to the other. Another thing is that using the net you can be able to view different types of furniture and compare their prices in a very short period of time.

The next best thing to do after viewing the furniture online is to go and see them physically remembering the saying that not all that glitters is gold. When you see them in person, you will able to tell how genuine they are in terms of quality and also avoid paying a lot of money in terms of shipping fee. A visit to the warehouse will also surprise you as you can get amazing deals there and save some cash

Hurry hurry has no blessing and that would be a wise advice to all those who want to buy cheap furniture because you will have to be on the look out hunting for deals that are out there. You simply need to hunt for them in the local dailies, in the windows of your favourite furniture stores or even just by being a keen listener to the discussions people make. When you identify a piece of furniture that you love do not think with your heart but with your head and ask yourself how long will that piece of adorable furniture last once your toddler shakes it. This is what now will lead you to the next step of every person who wants to purchase cheap furniture successfully and that is checking on how the condition of the furniture like the corners and the finishing.

Numbers are an important thing and measurement matters when it comes to furniture. This is because you might see something you like but you do not have enough room for it and what a disappointment it will be when you have already bought it. To avoid such circumstances measure the size of your rooms so that when you see furniture that you deem suitable you can check its measurements and compare them to yours.

Now after getting what you want the next step is getting it to your house, which means you have to plan for transportation that will deliver the furniture safely and on time. Before you leave the shop, get to know the warranty period and have it put down on paper to act as a point of reference in the future. Therefore, you will have cheap furniture in your home by following some cheap but very reliable tips.

Watch Dawn Come Alive from Your Customized Balconies

When it comes to home décor, one of the focal points for any designer is the balcony. This ubiquitous feature in most classical and contemporary houses has gone through a metamorphosis through different design epochs. Today, it behooves on you to get an insight into the platform before selecting one both for its aesthetic and utility value. To appreciate how these designs can work for your household, it is imperative to understand some of the main contemporary balconies and their concomitant features to make the best purchase.

Basic Design Features of Balconies

Most of the balconies in contemporary homes are external and project conspicuously from the wall. However, you can still get a professional designer to build one that does not project but still offers the exquisite functionality. Once you have made up your mind about the nature of the balcony, the next feature is the grill or railing. These are the most important features because they enhance the safety of your household. Moreover, the railings used can also greatly enhance the appeal of your house depending on the material chosen.

You can opt for the classic iron or stainless steel for the grills though some exterior designers opt for balustrades made from glass, wood and other materials. Balconies are supposed to be safe but you can blend functionality with beauty by using a qualified exterior designer to select the material and other fittings. Additionally, you can also select canopies for your balcony to complement the balustrades and even make the architectural fitting even more magnificent.

Manufacture of Balcony Designs

Due to the centrality of a balcony, its manufacture of materials and building should always be done by a professional. There are critical areas including the floor and flooring materials and their laying because they determine the strength of the balconies. In addition, the manufacture of these structures should be done based on color matching with the rest of the building and enhancements such as flower and bird displays. This will make your balcony stand out from those of the neighbors but it all depends on the type of materials you use.

Choosing Balcony Designs

With this hindsight on balconies, you need to decide what to order from your designers. There are some common types in the market from French, Maltese, decorative, Juliette among others. Moreover, you can also get designs based on the origins from French, Mexican, and Spanish among others. Customized designs are also popular and as a home owner, you should always look for a manufacturer who can adapt their design to fit your unique needs.

Whether you want an overhanging wood design that you saw while on vacation or a glass outdoor structure, your designer will be able to customize and create a version that suits. As such, you should look for a balconies designer who has experience in the field especially in dealing with the material you have selected. In addition, these designers can provide a plethora of options in terms of locations which you can set up a balcony and their advice is invaluable. If you always enjoy theatre plays where the belles speak from the balconies; why not invest in one and always have the pleasure of watching every dawn come to life?

Adding Glass - For a Touch of Class.

Glass is a wonderful medium and it will do wonders for any room of your house if you chose the right piece.

It could be singing from a sunny window sill or a centre piece in the quiet hearth throughout the warm summer
months, or sparkling from a stand in a bright sitting room or study.

The type of glass you decide to buy is all important. There is absolutely no point buying a cheap Chinese piece of tat
or some Venetian tourist trinket that are banged out of a press nineteen to the dozen. They will look exactly want they
are – cheap, factory made, mass market glass.

A real piece of art glass will not only enhance any room, it is also a great investment if well looked after. Imagine
making 15% a year on a piece of glass appreciating in value when the banks are paying next to nothing in interest.
Just remember to put it out the way when the children are young.

Top quality crystal art glass that has been hand blown by a master glass craftsman is the ultimate glass with class.
A Glass vase that has been made with real care and attention to detail is what you are seeking. Once cooled and
sat proudly on the glass studio workbench the quality will be clear immediately. It should ooze style and finesse and
be both colourful and shapely. The quality of a glass piece should scream out at you and will leave the other factory
produced glass languishing in the distance.

There are even pieces of art glass now that are an infusion of metal threads into molten glass which builds up in
layers and gives a wonderful reflective surface when finished.

An ornate glass sculpture can really make a room, drawing attention to a sunny window sill or mantelpiece. Or a large
glass vase can make a fabulous centrepiece to a large table, stand or fireplace.

A dazzling glass paperweight will enliven a dark bookshelf and an art glass crystal bowl will look so delicious on your
dining table you will be loathe to put any fruit in it.

Choose wisely and you will have a glass artwork that will add a touch of elegance to the room and give you much
pleasure over the years.

Barnaby Kirsen runs Boha Glass – an online shop specialising in hand blown art glass from Bohemia and beyond.
You can read more about glass on his blog : http://www.bohaglass.co.uk/blog/

Garden Gates

Garden gates which are also known as simple sides are the focal points of our homes. They mark the border between public and private around our homes. They always give the first impression to everybody visiting our homes and it is very important that we select for them designs that will secure your property and at the same time also enhance your property. This depends on the following factors. The first one is how the surrounding area has been designed and the second factor is the function that the gate is going to perform. Construction of garden gates is very simple. Garden gates that are meant to be installed at the entrance of the gate or at the side of the house usually measure six feet in height. They must be made using materials that are weather and corrosion resistant since they will be able to endure the vagaries weather will present. Use of the correct material prevents wearing or tearing and also weakening of gate posts. Garden gates are constructed using metal, wood and bamboo which has become popular lately. For example, for a six feet tall gate, five by five lumber posts which have been cut to a height that is suitable are required. These posts have to be bolted to a structure that is fixed or to beams or headers which are for stability and for holding the posts. Holes which these posts will be concreted into should be of a size of one foot squared and two feet deep. For extra support, a concrete bridge or timber can be run below the ground between the two posts. This will also keep them straight. The gates width is required to be proper, and it should also be given enough space on any side of the gate that you will choose. An inch has to be removed from the width present between the posts to allow for a half an inch clearance. The frame of the gate should be made on level ground using two by three lumber pieces. This frame should be squared by adjusting it till the two diagonal measurements that are opposite are identical. This helps in ensuring that the corners of the frame are at right angles and that the frame is square. For extra support, use galvanized nails to nail a two by three lumber piece on each corner of the frame. The vertical boards of the gate should have fence boards measuring one by six and two and a half inch nails (galvanized and flat headed to offer stability) should be used to nail them. They should be overhang the bottom and top of the frame equally at the same time lying flash using its edges. The last board has to have its width deducted to maintain what is known as the flush fit. The gate is then hung two inches above the ground between the posts. Parkers or wedges are used to jam the gate into place while installing hinges on the inside of the gate.

Why you Need a Professional Plumber

Sooner or later you are going to find yourself in need of a professional plumber. You never know when you are going to wake up and find yourself ankle deep in water due to a busted pipe. When this happens, you will certainly want to make sure that you have the name and number of a professional plumber in your area who responds quickly to plumbing emergencies.

A professional plumber will be able to come to your home and repair your busted pipes to help you get your home back to normal as soon as possible. Being able to respond on a moments notice is so important especially when your home is flooded. It's so frustrating to you and your family to have to deal with plumbing problems, but a professional plumber can have you fixed up in no time.

Perhaps you are experiencing clogged pipes and nothing in your home will drain. This could be the result of something as simple as a grease clog in your pipes or something as difficult as tree roots in your pipes. No matter what the cause is, a professional plumber will be able to get to the bottom of the problem and have your drains flowing freely in no time.

Just knowing that you have a professional plumber that is highly knowledgeable, bonded and insured, eager to help you and fast to respond can take a great load of stress off of your shoulders. Many plumbers will offer 24 hour service for emergency plumbing needs, this is a great comfort knowing that you can call anytime of the day or the night and get a professional plumber to help you.

Maybe you just would like to have some new faucets installed in your home, with a professional plumber, you can easily have new faucets installed throughout your home. It's a great way to give you home a minor make over and to insure that you won't have to deal with leaky faucets any time soon in your future.

If you're planning to build a new home, you will definitely need a professional plumber. It's a great idea to have a professional plumber from the time that you begin planning your new home. Many plumbers work first hand with the contractor that will building your home to make sure that all of the plumbing needs of the home are taken care of efficiently and that everything is going to work perfectly when you are ready to move in.

If you don't have a professional plumber on your speed dial at home, you really need to find one in your area. Talk to your friends and relatives and see if they have a professional plumber that they recommend. You can also contact the Better business Bureau and check out the plumbers that they have on their list.

Don't wait until you need a plumber before you find a plumber that is going to provide you with excellent customer service and have the knowledge and experience that you need.

Sustainable Ideas For Home Improvement

he market for home improvement products continues to grow every year. Part of the trend towards sustainable home improvement is being driven by businesses implementing practices that can then be followed by consumers. Many sustainable ideas for home improvement also allow the homeowner or tenant to save a great deal of money.

How Does Your Garden Grow?

Many people forget the garden when talking about home improvement, however in terms of sustainability this is perhaps the best place to start. There are many initiatives you can undertake outside of your home which will be equally as lifting to the building itself.

The biggest change you could make immediately is to make your garden completely organic. Grow your own vegetables, use a water butt, and buying a composter are three huge steps you could take to add to the sustainability of your garden.

ETFE foil is a material widely used in the design and construction industries for making buildings with greener credentials. It is now possible to construct a greenhouse using ETFE foil. ETFE weighs only 1% of the equivalent area in glass, and will give a much more pleasant look to your garden. ETFE also works as a natural insulator, so the “greenhouse effect” inside will be much greater, excellent for keen gardeners looking to grow warm climate fruits and vegetables. Much more light can also get through ETFE in comparison to glass, so the plants growing inside will benefit from a vastly increased brightness level and be able to grow quicker and larger.

Heating Your Home

No doubt you have had a salesman from the energy company at your door at some point trying to sell you “cheaper” electricity or gas. Do this yourself by investing in either cavity wall or loft insulation. This work will have been carried out on many new homes as standard, however if you live in an older building you will most probably need to check.

Everyone is familiar with the “energy maps” which show the vast majority of a buildings’ energy lost through the ceiling, so starting at the loft will be the best idea. This will make your home much more energy efficient, reduce carbon emissions, and save you a truckload of money in the long term.

Painting

This sounds a strange one, but there is a huge and still growing market for environmentally friendly paint. This spreads from your normal, decorative paint that you would use around a home, to specially formulated and engineered paint which can be specifically applied to wood to make it last longer. This can be especially useful to those living in country-style homes with exposed wooden beams, or those with natural wood floors.

Make your home better, be greener and save money, with such a desirable combination, what are you waiting for?

Prepping Up Your Bedroom With Some Summer Additions

Summer is all about fun. It is the time of the year that creates spaces for you to live leisurely. Sure you
might be thinking of crafting a long weekend and head on to the nearest lake or ocean to unwind. But,
what if you just want to enjoy some lazy summer afternoons inside your bedroom? Have you dressed
up your own retreat to complement the season? If not, this is the right time to refresh the look of your
space and let it emulate the warmth of summer. With some tweaks and addition of a few key pieces,
you are sure to have a fab bedroom that will remind you of the little pleasures that summer brings.

Add a dash of color

Adding a fresh coat of paint to your bedroom walls is one of the best ways to embrace summer. Aside
from the fact that it is an inexpensive solution, you can easily finish painting within a day or two
and be able to achieve a new looking space. Choose light colors that will give your bedroom a hint
of vibrancy. Yellows, greens and blues in lighter shades are definitely ideal selections that go well
with the season since they are reminiscent of the sun and sea. You can also never go wrong with earth
tones. Create a color scheme according to your preference and start painting your walls following your
scheme.

If you are little skittish about painting your entire bedroom walls because you feel that you would be
changing your design in the future, then just paint one accent wall. To achieve the best impact, choose
the wall behind your headboard and paint it with your desired hue.

Use breezy fabrics

Your bed is certainly the very first thing that you and other people see when walking inside your
bedroom. So change the sheets and pillow covers. Opt for pieces that wick moisture away and they
should come in lively colors. Or, pull the overall look of your bedroom by picking sheets and pillow
covers that blend well with the color of your walls.

The same advise goes to your curtains, window treatments and rugs. Tuck away the heavy fabrics in
your closet and decorate your bedroom for hot summer nights by hanging two layers of sheer curtains
in complementary light hues on your windows. These curtains will not obstruct natural light and will
flutter in the summer wind. You can then place bamboo rugs on both sides of your bed for that added
summer charm.

Cool accents

Put on the glitz of summer fun to your bedroom by using cool accessories. You can hang a wind chime
from the outside eaves or inside frame of your bedroom window. The sound that your wind chime will
produce will certainly lend a soothing mood to your bedroom.

For your bedside tables, you can drape them with woven beach mats. On one table, arrange glass
candle holders of varying sizes. You can even choose to decorate the candle holders yourself. Simply
wrap each of them with decorative papyrus. Join the edges together using a double-sided tape. Then,
wrap around a length of twine or linen thread. For the other table, choose pictures of yourself and your
family during one of your summer vacations. Pick frames that adhere to your bedroom's summer theme
and arrange them accordingly.

If none of the said centerpieces appeal to your fancy, you may simply opt for small potted plants, or
pour tinted water inside a high vase and add a tropical foliage for a beautiful centerpiece.

Summer evokes both enjoyment and relaxation. Hence, your bedroom should channel these
characteristics to adhere to the season. When you are able to design your bedroom accordingly, you
will be able to drift off to sleep, dreaming of piña colada in hand with the sweet sound of a nearby
rolling sea and white sand between your toes.

Avoiding Indoor Air Pollution with Clean Air Ducts

People usually associate air pollution with smog, factory emissions and exhaust from vehicles.
However, it is also possible to get air pollution indoors due to accumulation of dirt and poor air duct
maintenance. You need to get your air ducts cleaned especially if there are moulds in your cooling
and heating system, your air ducts are infested with pests and your air ducts are clogged with dust and
debris.

How does it work: air duct cleaning

Air duct cleaning is the process of cleaning of the parts of the cooling and heating system which
includes air ducts, grilles, drip pans, fans and the housing. The cleaning process is a meticulous one and
it involves plenty of procedures and equipment. Some of the paraphernalia used in cleaning air ducts
include industrial vacuum cleaners and scrubbing tools. The places where air exchange occurs is also
cleaned and sanitized.

Why clean air ducts are important?

The air quality inside your home can affect the health of all the members of your family. Accumulated
dust, dirt and debris in your air ducts can circulate around the house which can cause asthma and
trigger allergic reactions. Filthy air ducts are also perfect breeding ground for mould and bacteria that
can become airborne and will eventually enter your system and cause adverse health reactions.

Proper maintenance and cleaning of heating and cooling systems can also improve the efficiency of
your home cooling and heating systems. This translates to a lower electric bill and more savings for
you. Lowering your energy consumption is also beneficial to the environment.

Selecting a professional air duct cleaning service

Experts recommend that you get your air ducts cleaned by professionals instead of doing it yourself.
When selecting a professional air duct cleaning service, do not take for granted that all professional
cleaning service providers have an idea of all there is to know about air duct cleaning. Contact several
companies and inquire about their services and the products they use and if they can give you an
estimate if they charge their clients by the hour. Ask them if they could provide you with references
from their other customers as well. Once you select your service provider, make sure that there is a
contract that states everything you and the company agreed on.

Air duct maintenance tips

Even if you get your air ducts and cooling and heating systems cleaned by professionals, you should

also do preventive maintenance so contamination, mould growth and dust and debris accumulation
are lessened. You should purchase high quality filters for your cooling and heating systems and you
need to clean and change them regularly. Make sure that the parts your cooling and heating systems are
cleaned when they undergo maintenance. Keep your home neat and regularly vacuum the floors and
the areas where dust tends to accumulate. Never let your air ducts collect moisture. Watch out for any
leaks or water damage in the duct system and have them repaired immediately. Lastly, replace old air
conditioning units and ascertain that your new one can manage condensation efficiently.

Furniture Online

If purchasing new furniture is in your future, you are going to love all of the great furniture deals that you can find online. Furniture online will offer you such a large variety of the best pieces of furniture for your home. You will be able to choose great furniture for any room in your home.

Perhaps you are looking for something in oak; you will find plenty of great choices of well crafted oak furniture to choose from. Finding a great solid oak bedroom set is going to be so easy when you shop for furniture online. The dining room may be the room that you would like to add new furniture to. You can choose a beautiful solid oak dining room set that is going to offer you and your family great memories around the dinner table.

Maybe a more rustic pine is the type of furniture that you would like to gift your home with. Pine is a beautiful type of wood and creates really beautiful pieces of furniture. Choose a pine bed frame and chest of drawers to go in the children’s room. You are going to love how durable it is and they will love the way it makes their bedroom so cosy.

Purchasing your furniture online is not only going to allow you great prices, it’s also going to allow you great affordability. You are going to be so pleased with all of the money that you are able to save when you purchase your furniture online. You’ll save enough that you can place great furniture in another room in your home.

Placing a new sofa and recliners in the den will make it so much more comfortable. You will find a large variety of colours and fabrics to choose from for your new sofa and recliners. You won’t have any problems choosing the furniture for your den that is just perfect.

It is always nice to be able to put a beautiful bedroom suite in the guest room, you want your guest to not only be impressed with your style and taste, but you also want them to be comfortable. You’ll be able to place high quality and beautiful furniture in the guest room by purchasing furniture online. Perhaps a nice cherry set with the bed, dresser, night stands and a chest of drawers would give the room and warm and welcoming style.

You can also find great furniture pieces such as microwave stands, shelves and hutches just to name a few pieces that will also give your home just the look that you want. You can choose from so many different styles that your online furniture shopping experience is going to change the way that you have always purchased furniture.

Purchasing furniture is an important detail in life; you want the best furniture that you can get for your money. You want to be sure that it is going to hold up to the real life that your family is going to throw its way and you want it too look great. Furniture online can fulfil all of your needs and meet all of your expectations when it’s time for new furniture. 

Easy, Breezy Tips to Redesign Your Bedroom

Tired of your topsy-turvy bedroom? You can turn it into a place conducive to optimum comfort by creating an ambience that facilitates exceptional relaxation and tranquility at the end of a stressful day.

Give your bedroom that elegant and sophisticated look with simple, practical remodeling concepts. The manner of which you manage and maintain your bedroom will create a significant influence on the intrinsic value of your home. Consider these easy tips to help you achieve a satisfactory output when renovating your bedroom:

• Play with Colors

The color scheme that you use in your bedroom can have a remarkable impact on its general atmosphere. Using a color wheel as reference can help you decide on the theme you want for your bedroom. It is suggestible that you choose colors that invoke an aura of peace and relaxation in order to help you get the most benefit from your bedroom. Think of the ambience you want to create in your bedroom. Mixing and matching dark colors with bright or earthly ones allows you to determine the kind of mood you want to set.

• Choose the Best Mattresses

Your choice of mattress is one of the most essential aspects in creating the ideal sleeping environment for you. Acquiring a comfortable and stable mattress is a definite must. Doing so offers your body the chance to experience the quality sleep it deserves and craves. If your mattress is feeling lumpy and worn-out, don’t you think it’s about time to get a new one? A busted-up mattress will do absolutely nothing for your aching back.

Selecting the right type of mattress can be quite unnerving, considering the extensive variety of mattresses on display in the market. However, with the right amount of research and preparation, you can still get the perfect mattress for you. You can find various models such as double mattresses, single mattresses, pocket sprung mattresses and memory foam mattresses available for you to choose from at your local department store.

• Less is More

You don’t necessarily need to buy new furniture in order to give your room a new look. Rearranging old furniture can change the whole appearance of your bedroom in a low-cost and effective manner.  On the other hand, if you are desperately in need of new furniture, consider getting something to sit on and relax besides your bed. You can furnish your room with seating areas as simple stools, chairs and beanbags, or you can even go all out with a brand new sofa.

Refurbish your bedroom with various accessories that bring out your personality. You can add paintings, flowers, and lighting that go well with your bedroom theme. Remember, less is more, so don’t over-decorate the place!

There is definitely a multitude of ways to redecorate your personal refuge. All you need is preparation and some creative juices to get your job done. Sky’s the limit!