Building Inspections - Permits and Problems

Things to Know

1. The General Contractor or the person that the Building Permit was issued to must make all inspection requests.
2. Building Permit Cards must be posted and building plans must be available at the jobsite or the inspection will not be performed and a penalty can be charged.
3. Permit Fees are based on the valuation of project defined as labor, materials, plus profit
4. If the project is large enough a plan review will have to be completed by the building inspector

Who are They

The BDI inspects approves and issues all permits required by code for new construction and for repairs and additions to all public and private buildings. They assure safe building standards for the general safety and welfare of us all. When Do I Need a Building Permit Building permits are required when any structural change or major alteration is made or for new construction. Normal maintenance doesnt need a building permit.

Here are some common examples, although this list is not complete:
1. New structures
2. Enlargement of existing rooms
3. Porches, decks, and retaining walls
4. Anything involving structural beams, joist replacement or bearing support
5. Foundations and footing repair, underpinning or shoring up of a structure
6. The conversion of basement or attic space to living quarters
7. All new fences except the replacement of existing fences
8. An entire new roof, when roof work is not replacement of like material

When Don't I need a Building Permit

Here are some common examples, although this list is not complete:
1. Ordinary repairs to residential buildings and structures, there could be height restriction here.
2. Plaster patching, exterior and interior painting, floor sanding and refinishing, floor tile, carpeting, replacement of flooring
3. Repair or replacement of gutters and downspouts
4. Replacement or repair of exterior doors and non-fire rated interior doors whenever no modification is made to the opening
5. Wall paneling applied directly to wall surfaces; acoustical ceiling tile applied directly to ceiling surfaces;
6. Installation of battery-operated smoke detectors
7. Replacement of existing fencing, same height, material and location in the rear or side yards
8. Non-dish radio or television antennae

The BDI will focus on all common areas unless there is a specific complaint. In that case they can go anywheres in a building. They do not need an owners permission to enter a unit, but they do need the tenants permission to enter an apartment. They will look at all common areas to sleuth out dangerous or hazardous code violations or egress issues. They are essentially interested in safety issues and will look especially for fire extinguishers, doors, lighting, stairs, doors and smoke detectors. If there are any violations of code they will issue a "notice of violation" or NOV.

What They Do: They will inspect a property for three reasons:

1. Law requires general inspections to uncover and correct safety issues and code requirements. These inspections are mandated periodically.
2. Someone has complained
3. To review new construction work for safety and code violations.

The Dreaded "Task Force Inspection"

If a building is a nuisance and gets repeated complaints then the city can call in many or all the agencies and create a task force to inspect the building. The agencies involved can include fire, health, police, and the D.A. The task force is only formed for the worst offenders, generally drug dens or health hazards.

Construction Inspections

The inspector is looking to see that the work is up to code and does not exceed the scope of the permit. Very often, construction will take place and other issues come up. If they exceed the parameters of the work approved they can deny approval of the work. Now you have to come into compliance and that can mean a bureaucratic snafu or worse. A citation or NOV (Notice of Violation) is issued and you will need to apply for another permit to fix the problem to come up to code. When the work is completed according to the demands of the BDI, you will need another inspection to get cleared. If you still have problems with getting the work approved you have a few alternatives

Fighting the BDI

1. Know the code: You will need to prove the condition cited is legal
2. Get all the permit plans the DBI has and try to make a case that the condition is historical
3. If its an older building it may be grandfathered
4. Talk to the senior inspector and make an informed case
5. Talk to a real estate attorney or engineer

The Hearing

This is your last effort to right a wrong. You can have your attorney or property manager or possibly a structural engineer make your case. This is your last ditch effort to allow a condition to remain in place. Obviously, you dont get to this unless there is a lot of money at stake.

Howard Bell
yourpropertypath.com

http://www.yourpropertypath.com
We believe that knowledge should be free and freely shared.

How to Replace a Circuit Breaker

It is always a good idea to have each circuit breaker clearly labeled. This prevents confusion and frustration in the event that one needs to be reset or replaced. You can begin labeling the circuits by turning them off and on to see which appliance it is connected to. Circuit breakers consist of the main power supply to your home as well as individual circuits for appliances within your home.

Learning how to replace a circuit breaker or install a new circuit breaker is a little more complicated than merely resetting a tripped breaker. Firstly, you should purchase a new circuit breaker from a home improvement or hardware store. Before installing a circuit breaker you should turn the main power breaker off to shut down power to the entire house.

You can remove the gray circuit breaker panel by unscrewing the faceplate. You will see two wires on the side of the breaker; be careful to remember what position each wire is in as you remove the panel. You can use a wire nut to hold and bend back the wire that you will use later on. Repeat this process for both the white and colored wires. After removing the old breaker box simply reinstall the new circuit breaker box and replace the wires in the same manner in which they were previously installed.

Installing a circuit breaker box is a seemingly simple task. Even if you are not technically inclined, you should still be able to perform this task. If, however, you are uncomfortable in dealing with electrical issues, it might be wise to consult with an electrician. All electricians know how to replace a circuit breaker and it is not very time consuming for them, and so it should not be expensive for you, and might save you some unnecessary frustration.

Circuit Breakers Info provides detailed information about circuit breaker panels, circuit breaker manufacturers, plus advice on how to replace and install circuit breakers and where to buy used and surplus circuit breakers. Circuit Breakers Info is the sister site of Electricians Web.

Renovation Research

It might sound like going back to school (yikes!), but researching and studying your options for home renovations, especially kitchen renovations, will make the project easier and more successful.

Luckily, there are many different ways to research and learn more about your renovation.

Magazines and Books - You might not expect your renovation project to start at the drug store,CD3 but they usually have a good selection of home improvement magazines. You don't need to get too involved, the pictures alone will start ideas flowing. Visit big box hardware stores for magazines that are more specific to your renovation. Your local library will not only have a selection of magazines, but also many helpful and idea producing books.

Talk to Family and Friends - Ever admire a friend's renovation only to learn that, while they like it, they wished they had done something differently? Your family and friends might have already been through some of the decisions you are trying to make - and they know the consequences.

Suppliers - Don't be afraid to approach suppliers, even when you are not ready to buy. The right supplier will know a lot about what you are trying to do and will be willing to give you advice. Suppliers are an especially good way to find out what your renovation will cost. Look for those offering free quotations. You might like something you see in a magazine - until you find out the cost. Big box hardware stores might be a good place to start asking questions because then you will know a little more when you talk to a specialist. Look for suppliers with showrooms and displays; there is nothing like seeing and touching to give you a better idea of what will work best.

The Internet - It's not just for kids any more. Finding a wealth of knowledge on the internet is as easy as typing a few words and clicking on "Search". Try to get information from different sources - retail sites, manufacturer sites, supplier sites (look for those with pictures of their work), and do-it-yourself sites. Web logs (blogs) are another source. More and more people are keeping blogs and many are about home renovation projects. It could be a good way to find first hand experiences about some of the issues you might face.

The other research you need to do might be a little easier and less time consuming - but it also might be more important. Take the time to think about how your family uses your kitchen. A particular kitchen might be very attractive, but it might not be the best choice for your lifestyle.

The more you know about it, the better your home renovation project will be - from start to finish.

Hi my name is Mike, We are a family run operation dedicated to personal service; combining tradition with state of the art technology, to design and produce functional, stylish cabinetry tailored to your needs. Please give us a call at (905) 761-2815 and check out our site Custom Cabinetry Design

Contractor Horror Stories

Horror stories. Everyone's heard one, and they're a major reason why many people are reluctant to enter into a remodeling or new home project. Building is a complicated, expensive, emotional undertaking and for some people the risk of encountering a problem is too high.

But for others, the challenge and excitement of creating something completely new and unique is irresistible. Designing and building a new home or reworking the one you're in can be a very fulfilling experience - if you've done your homework and you've prepared yourself for the possibility that everything may not always go exactly as planned...as in these two true stories:

Carved In Stone (Not)

Chuck and Jim opened the rear doors to Chuck's van and carefully lifted out the new polished granite countertop. They'd parked the van in the driveway at the back of their client's house, aligned with the kitchen door so that the countertop could be carried straight in. Large stone countertops are fragile, but this one was especially so because of the holes that had been precut in it to allow for the sink and cooktop to be dropped in later. Inside, Chuck and Jim positioned themselves next to the cabinets where the countertop was to be installed and began to slowly rotate it into place.

Jim heard it first - a soft "pop", just before the countertop cracked on either side of the sink opening. The heavy stone pieces slipped from their hands and landed with a double thud on the kitchen floor.

The client was watching when the disaster struck, and the sound she made was nothing like a pop, a crack or a thud; it was more like stifled scream. This was just too much to bear. It was the third time Chuck and Jim had broken the kitchen countertop.

Too Good to Be True

Jim and Tracy desperately wanted to build their new home in Cherrington Woods and couldn't believe their luck when they found that the very last lot in the subdivision was still for sale. Lot 43 was on a cul-de-sac, and backed up to a ravine. The price was reasonable, even cheap for the area, and since the rest of the lots on the street had already been built on, Jim and Tracy wouldn't have to put up with any one else's construction mess once they had moved in.

After the closing, Jim called the Architect that their real estate agent had recommended and set up a first meeting. Among the topics discussed was the need to conduct a subsurface investigation of the site, to try to discover any conditions that might require special Foundation engineering. But since it was the last lot in the subdivision, and no soil problems had been found on the adjacent lots, the likelihood of bad soil or rock was low. Jim decided against spending the money on the soils tests.

Which was unfortunate, because a soils test wouldn't have found bad soil; it would have found very little soil at all. What it would have found is tree stumps, old fence posts, lumber scraps, and other construction trash to a depth that exceeded the planned depth of Jim and Tracy's Foundation. When Cherrington Woods was being developed, the excavator had used the lot for a trash pit. A lot of what had been cleared off of the top the subdivision during the grading had been pushed onto the area later known as lot 43 and then buried under five feet of dirt.

Ultimately, the Foundation had to be dug six feet deeper than planned to get to stable soil. Jim and Tracy ended up with a big hole in their checking account and a very nice racquetball court in their basement.

Hang In To The End

When something goes wrong on a construction project, it might be the fault of one of the parties involved in the project, or it might be one of the those things that no one seems to be able to predict. Either way, the goal is the get the project back on track and moving as soon as possible.

Some problems have to be taken in stride. In the vast majority of cases, the joy and satisfaction of fresh new living space soon fades the memory of any problems during construction.

Richard L. Taylor, AIA is a published author and recognized expert in Residential Architecture. He is President of Richard Taylor Architects, a 5-person firm in Historic Dublin, Ohio. Residential Architect Luxury Home Plans

5 Lighting Tips That Will Improve Your Home

Q. How can I improve the lighting in my kitchen? I'm always preparing meals in the dark!

A. There is a general idea that a big central ceiling fixture will provide all the light needed for cooking, meals and cleaning up. A central overhead light provides good overall lighting, but is a weak light for tasking. Everyone working under that kind of light will be working in their shadow. Undercabinet lighting is a good solution for food preparation because it efficiently illuminates the counter work surface. There are many plug-in varieties of xenon and halogen units that work well for this kind of task illumination.

For island counters, where food is prepared or served, pendants hung to illuminate the entire work surface are also a good solution. Pendants are hanging lights, either on downrods (stems), cords or chain, they can be positioned singly or in groups, just above the task area and light up the surface to make the tasks at hand well lit and enjoyable. Some pendants come in brightly colored glass shades for a contemporary look, or more traditional with faux alabaster glass shades and wrought iron, pewter or bronze finishes.

Q. We have a family room that has two table lamps in the corners of the room and a central overhead fixture. This lighting is not enough for my kids doing homework at the table, or me, reading or knitting on the sofa. What can you suggest?

A. Check to see if you are using the correct wattage in your lamps and replace your lampshades if they are darkened and clouded with age ( over the years this can happen slowly, the shade emitting less light because of deterioration). Again, an overhead fixture is limited in the light it can provide for tasking.

A good alternative is track lights which will provide good downlight to specific areas in the room. Track heads with little spot or flood bulbs can beam lighting down on tasking areas. Floor lamps that have multiple "goosenecks" or adjustable lights that can be directed towards many working areas can adequately illumintate reading and other activities in a multiple areas. Wall sconces placed in work areas provide a pleasant, semi-direct light and enhance ambient lighting.

Q. I'd like to have better light around my house when I come home at night.

A. Low voltage light kits provide good light along driveways and walkways. They come with various lamps and styles with transformers to match. It's easy to install low voltage lighting--these kits usually consist of a several lights which are on spikes that can be set in the ground and linked with wire which can be placed above ground, buried several inches down in soil, covered with mulch or behind shrubbery. Low voltage (12 volts of current) is safe for children and pets-the voltage is so low it does not present a shock hazard).

The transformer, which converts the standard 120 household volts to 12 volts, is plugged into a regular house exterior or interior outlet. Higher voltage (120 volts) provides the most powerful light for your driveway, walkway and landscape lighting. There is no transformer, wires to the light sources which can be spiked or installed around walkways, driveways, etc. have to be buried at a safe depth because of safety regulations--these will be in the directions for installation.

They are excellent for illuminating a driveway or walkway, showcasing trees, the house or the landscape. Placed strategically, the effects with this 120 voltage landscape lighting are dramatic and provide all the illumination you may require.

Q. My electric bill is too high! What can I do about it!

A. Replacing all of your present incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs will definitely lower your electric bill. CFL's (compact fluorescent lights) come in many wattages and styles. The CFL technology will expand over the next year to include dim-able bulbs and smaller bulbs in three-ways for lamps. Also, consider dimmers for any room in your house. When a light is dimmed, the wattage is decreased (you save money!) and dimmers present the option of just the right light at the simple slide or dial on the wall switch.

Q. My husband and I have a bathroom with double sinks. I like a lot of light for putting on make up in the morning. My husband likes to shave in the practically in the dark.! He says bright light is only acceptable after a cup of coffee. Right now we have a standard vanity fixture with six bulbs that are too dim for me an too bright for him. What can we do?

A. A dimmer will solve the light adjust ability problem, but only if you use the bathroom at different times. If you use the double sinks at the same time, you should consider separate lighting above each sink --that would require installing separate receptacles and wiring, and then, separate dimmers. You could then have the correct wattage for your applying make-up and your husband could have his preferred lighting for shaving.

Welcome to my lighting blog

Lois DeWitt is a certified lighting specialist, a cookbook author, "Pop It In The Toaster Oven," a poet and a Standard Poodle admirer. She cooks gourmet meals for friends, walks along the shore with her dog, Charley, and tends her vegetable garden in Wilmington, NC. She also works part time in the Lighting/Electrical Department at The Home Depot.

Tips for Choosing Your Bathroom Remodeling Contractor

Bathroom remodeling is a major home improvement project. Its an investment that improves both the value of your home and your enjoyment of the space. Choosing a bathroom remodeling contractor to complete your project is the key to the success of the project now and later.

The task of remodeling often involves tear-outs, tie-ins to existing systems and other structural tasks that arent necessary when building a new structure. Thats why it is important to make sure you choose a contractor with experience in remodeling. A contractor that has remodeling experience will be able to efficiently handle the specifics of remodeling that a person with no remodeling experience couldn't.

Ask your friends, family and neighbors for referrals of contractors theyve used. Go online and try one of the contractor referral sites. These sites can refer you to a local bathroom remodeling contractor. Youll also usually be able to see comments and ratings from others who have used their services.

Bathroom Remodeling

Once you have several candidates1C49, review your project with each bidder separately. Make sure to give each potential contractor the same specifications for your project. This helps to ensure each bid is for exactly the same work. Written requests work best, as it gives you and the contractor a complete summary of everything you want accomplished.

A professional bathroom remodeling contractor will provide you with a professionally written proposal for your project. Once the proposal is accepted, they should also provide you with a contract that clearly states the work to be accomplished, the materials to be used, and the time frame for completion. Make sure all the specifics are included in the contract.

Sometimes we all want to choose the least expensive contractor. This is not always the best deal. Make sure to evaluate each area concerned with your bathroom remodeling. The quality of materials, the experience level of the people doing the work, and the time frame for completion should all be evaluated before you make your final decision.

This article was written by Gregg Hicks of http://www.reliableremodeler.com which provides Internet-based home improvement information and services. Offering homeowners a simple, quick, and free way to access, qualified home improvement remodeling contractors.

Gargoyle Bookends as Part of Mythology and Architecture

Gargoyles are most commonly associated with medieval lore but their use as architectural figures dates back to earlier times. Often seen as fierce looking faces, gargoyles are also seen as full figure characters. Gargoyle bookends are a reflection of the history and mythology that continues to fuel modern interest in unique nature of these unusual figures.

Gargoyles have been part of architecture since the heyday of the ancient Greek and Egyptian empires. Though gargoyles often have a fearsome appearance, their use is thought to be far more benevolent. The power to ward off evil spirits is a significant part of the mythological explanation surrounding gargoyles. Hellenic or Greek gargoyles are very often seen as happy or jolly characters and were a part of many public buildings. They could be seen mounted on the parapets of buildings or spewing water as part of a public fountain. Outcroppings on the facade of a building may have been used especially for gargoyles.

Many of these figures took the shape of animals, especially reptiles. Often dragon like in appearance, their gaze was usually facing down from the structure. In mythology and lore, dragons were thought to be the guardians of sacred places or great treasure troves. This contrasts with the more popular view of dragons as fierce and fire breathing creatures. Other animals such as birds of prey or the mythical Roc were the inspiration for many gargoyle figures.

Many styles of gargoyle bookends replicate these unique creatures. Gargoyle replicas are one of the most collectible types of bookends and statuary. Fans of Gothic architecture and lore are particularly drawn to gargoyle collecting. The history of the gargoyle even includes their use in religious settings, as adornments to some of the worlds great churches and cathedrals. The cathedral at Notre Dame in France is home to many gargoyle figures.

The history and lore of the gargoyle figures takes many forms. Gargoyles and gargoyle bookends may represent combinations of human and animal forms sometimes taking on the appearance of hooded monks and friars. Just as they may be used to ward off evil, they were thought to have other uses. Avoiding the wages of sin can be a powerful force used to keep people from straying into a life of eternal damnation. It is thought by some historians that gargoyles may have been placed in prominent view to remind people that Satan, or other supposed forces of evil, were all about and should be avoided.

Since many gargoyles appear with wings, they may very well have been the inspiration for the flying monkey characters seen in the movie the Wizard of Oz. Many dragons of myth were often depicted with wings and were though to be capable of flight, reflecting the myth of flying gargoyles. From the funny to the frightening, many other modern day film and cartoon monsters have been patterned from these legendary winged figures.

Whether collectors of gargoyle bookends are seeking redemption is certainly open to debate. Gargoyles do appear in many pieces of medieval artwork. They can often be quite scary in appearance and could be used to frighten away superstitious people. Given the wide variety of gargoyle shapes, many collectors may have more of an artistic motivation to maintaining their collections.

In addition to collectible bookends, today gargoyle figures stand vigil as yard ornaments, water fountains and various types of outdoor statuary. Even though warding off evil spirits may not be in your decorating plans, some interior design schemes benefit from the addition of gargoyles. Gargoyle bookends make the perfect the perfect gift for fans of medieval mythology and religious history.

Mitch Endick is a short article writer for the popular decorative bookend site: http://www.decorativebookends.com. He provides interesting information buying and collecting decorative bookends.

http://www.decorativebookends.com
http://www.decorativebookends.com

Home Insulation - Slash Your Energy Bills, Stay Snug In Winter (And Cool In Summer)

You can add insulation to almost any home. Depending on the structure of your building, the best areas to add insulation are normally the loft, and also the cavity between your home's inner and outer walls. Insulating these saves a lot of energy and based on calculations for a British home, usually covers its cost within 2 years. Whats more, if you properly insulate your home you will prevent several tonnes of carbon dioxide being emitted into the atmosphere each year.

Insulating your cavity walls and loft will have the biggest impact on your bills. More heat is lost through walls than any other route approximately 33% in an un-insulated home. 270 mm (10 inches) of loft insulation can save up to 25% of a homes heating costs.

In most houses in the United Kingdom built after the 1920s, the external walls are made of two layers with a small air gap or 'cavity' between them. If your home has unfilled cavity walls, a considerable slice of your energy bills will be spent heating the air outside. Filling the gap between the two walls of a house with an insulating material massively decreases the amount of heat which escapes through the walls. It will help create a more even temperature in your home, help prevent condensation on the walls and ceilings.

Cavity wall insulation is quick, clean and relatively inexpensive to install. It's injected into the cavity from the outside, taking between two and three hours for a three bedroom semi-detached house. In the United Kingdom it typically costs around 250, and with the savings homeowners then make on their heating bills, it can pay for itself in under 2 years.

Another really important area to consider is that you could be losing up to a third of the heat in your house through your roof and loft insulation can cut this right down. The recommended depth for insulation is at least 270mm. If you currently have insulation that is less thick than this you may consider adding another layer, although the payback time is longer.

There are various materials that you can use to insulate your loft. Most frequently used is mineral wool, although you can now use real wool if you want a natural alternative.

In the United Kingdom most people prefer to use a professional insulation contractor, who should also help you get government grants to reduce the cost. Because of the grants, using a contractor is normally cheaper than doing it themselves and with a professional you know that the job will be properly done.

Other cheap and easy steps which are well worth home owners considering include insulating their hot water tank, insulating the homes pipe-work and installing draught-pRoofing. Many homes are leaking heat through gaps in the joins on the panels that make up their windows and doors. In a typical home 20 per cent of all heat loss is through ventilation and draughts. Draught pRoofing is one of the least expensive and most effective energy efficiency measures for the home - yet it is too often overlooked.

Draught pRoofing offers a quick return, frequently paying for itself within a year and then saving year after year. There are many types of product - for around windows (sash, metal, timber); external doors (including weatherbars for door bottoms); internal doors - particularly kitchens, bathrooms and main living areas; the loft hatch, and even letter boxes, key holes and cat flaps!

Insulation, although not as headline grabbing as solar panel and wind turbines, is definitely the first place to start to make your home more comfortable and energy efficient.

Alex Perry is a founder of DownwithCO2.co.uk, which helps people save energy, save money and reduce CO2 by using insulation

A Stair Lift Guide

There are three ways of providing access between floors for the handicapped or disabled; residential elevators, stair lifts and platform lifts. By far the most popular method of residential lift is the home chair stair lift.

The reasons why they are preferred by the majority is because of ease of installation and price. Residential elevators and platform lifts start at around 10k to 16k. The price of a home stair lift will depend on its type. A straight type will range in price from 2.5k - 4k, whereas a curved model is custom made and will cost anything between 5k to 20k. The complexity of the installation ultimately dictates the cost of installing a curved lift. The cost is impossible to know before the supplier carries out an onsite inspection.

Drive Type

There are four types of drive types. However, the vast majority of new stair lifts use the rack and pinion system.

Most cable drive systems use a strong steel cable - aircraft cable is the norm. The main disadvantage of this type of drive system is that the ride can be less than perfectly smooth. However, technology has moved on and those companies that still use this drive system say that the ride is as smooth as any other type. Summit and Ameriglide stair lifts both use this drive type.

Chain drive systems are used only for heavy duty models. They are loud and not really used in residential stair lifts.

The screw drive uses a lifting mechanism with a screw driven actuator. This is powered by a rechargeable battery. Again, this type is not used in home models.

The rack and pinion drive system is by far the most popular type for residential stair lifts. Rack and pinion systems - meaning gear and teeth - used to have to require regular cleaning and replacement of gear oil. However today's home units have sealed drive systems that require no maintenance at all.

The Track or Rail

This is the base along which the carriage travels. The track is always fitted to the stairs and never to the wall. This means that a track can be fitted to either side of the stairs. Tracks used in straight stair lifts are made of extruded aluminum whereas curved ones usually use a mixture of both steel and aluminum.

Power

With early designs the power source was AC mains. But today, most stair chair lifts are powered by DC 12 volt rechargeable batteries. Batteries are preferred because a trailing cable is used with AC mains powered stairlifts. The cable is reeled5B4 out and reeled back in each and every time the chair travels up and down the stairway, which causes wear and tear. Also, battery powered units can still be used during power outages. Some states prohibit the installation of any appliance unless it is installed by a qualified technician.

Swivel Seats

All makes of stair chair lifts offer this option. There are two types; 90 degree and 180 degree swivel seats. A 90 degree swivel seat is mounted on the upstairs side of the chassis and fold in one direction. A 180 degree swivel seat folds in both directions. One manufacturer, Stannah, makes a motorized swivel seat.

Self Diagnosing

Many brands like the Acorn Superglide and the Stannah stair lift have integrated circuit boards that can help diagnose problems with your lift and decrease maintenance costs.

Accessories

All manufacturers offer a mixture of accessories either as standard or optional. What you choose will affect the cost of the stair lift.

Perch stair lifts allow the passenger to remain standing. This is excellent for those who have problems bending at the knee. The Acorn Superglide Perch is one such example.

Just about all home units come with safety belts. Some brands come with retractable lap inertia belts, while others offer 3-point fixed shoulder belts.

Installation

Installation of today's straight models is quite easy. Many manufacturers and dealers encourage custome53Ars to self-install. However, a customer should never self install and the Accessibility Equipment Manufacturer's Association strongly advises against it.

The installation of a residential lift really can allow someone to regain their home and independence. The chair stair lift that is best for a customer will depend on their requirements and budget.

Follow the links for more information on a stair chair lift, wheelchair stair lift and the handicap stair lift.

Do You Really Need a Realtor

So, if you're having a home built, what are the consequences of not using a Realtor? I learned from experience, and I want to share my knowledge with others. Currently, I am a Realtor, so you may think that I'm biased. However in 1998 (prior to becoming an Agent), just like many of you, I didn't use a Realtor when I had my 1st home built. I thought the person in the model home would look for my best interests. Below are some real life examples explaining what can happen if you don't hire a Realtor to represent you.

1. Pay too much for the house - Realtors are in constant contact with builders about special promotions that are going on. You may not believe this. But, I know a buyer that went to a builder, and the sales agent in the model home quoted a high price. However, the Realtor knew that the builder was offering a promotion, and the price was actually supposed to be alot less. If the Realtor wasn't there, the home buyer would have overpaid for the house.

2. Negotiate the Contract - One thing to always remember is that the sales agent in the model represents the builder, not you (the buyer). Therefore, their job is to negotiate the contract in the best interests of the builder. If you hire a Realtor/Buyer's Agent, it's the Realtor's job to negotiate the contract for your best interests. In other words, the Realtor will negotiate the following: sales price, earnest money deposit, down payment assistance, financing options, etc. I know buyers who were told they had to use the builder's mortgage company even though that mortgage company didn't have the best loan programs. So, the buyers wound up getting a higher interest rate. They were told that if they didn't use the builder's company, they wouldn't receive the special incentives (like free upgrades, builder paid closing costs, etc). A Realtor can negotiate for you, so you don't have to use the builder's lender.

3. Incorrect Options - Building a home takes several months. Everyone's human, and we all make mistakes. Sometimes, builders make mistakes and put the wrong options in your house. When I had my home built, the builder put in the wrong countertops. In another buyers' house, the builder put in the wrong bathtub, the wrong light fixtures, and there was a lot of standing water on the lot. Your Realtor will monitor the building progress, and the Realtor will notify the builder immediately if a mistake is made.

4. Incorrect Paperwork at Closing - Realtors know what type of paperwork should be at the closing. I know a buyer that had a home built, and during the building process, the paperwork changed. Specifically, the sales price was lowered. However, when they got to the Closing, all the original documents were there with the higher price. No one could find the new paperwork. The Realtor was the only person who had it. So, without the Realtor, the buyer would have paid too much for the house.

5. Incorrect Settlement Statement - Realtors go over this statement in detail to make sure it's accurate. If you've never heard of a Settlement Statement, that's the form that you're given at the Closing. It lists all your closing costs, and it states whether or not you have to pay money or get money back at closing. Well, I can't count the number of buyers I know that encountered incorrect Settlement Statements. For example, at my brother's closing, the Settlement Statement showed that he had to pay over $200, but in actuality, he didn't have to pay anything. Luckily, his Realtor was there, and she noticed that one of the fees on the statement was incorrect.

Now, you know the benefits of using a Realtor even if you're having a new home built. Now, you don't have to learn the hard way. The best thing about hiring a Realtor/Buyer's Agent is that it's FREE. Why would you not want someone to look out for your best interests (for FREE)?

I have been a licensed NC & SC Realtor/Buyer's Agent since 2003. I specialize in helping home buyers. To get more free tips & advice (or to search for homes), please visit my website: http://www.NJoyHomeBuying.com

Instructions For Remodeling Porches

Remodeling porches can be a great benefit to homes in regard to both its appearance and value. The following example from DoItYouself shows how you can make more of your outdoors with new ideas, such as painting, staining or trying some basic carpentry skills. You can turn a plain backyard into a fresh, fabulous outdoor environment. This may also be a good time to repair an old porch while also sprucing up its appearance.

The owners of an Atlanta, Georgia home decided to transport their back porch from a concrete slab to a screened-in porch due to mosquitoes and their desire to relax outside. They already knew they wanted to screen in their existing back porch, but complications arose since their patio was simply a concrete square tucked under an overhang. They wanted the porch to blend in with the rest of the house yet still stand up against the mosquitoes, humidity and high summer temperatures. Additionally, because their existing concrete porch also had a slight drop for rain runoff the homeowner shad to trim the inside of the frame to fit the drop.

Here is a step-by-step outline of what these homeowners did:

First, cut the paneling. You should cut 4 x 8 foot sheets of pre-primed beadboard ceiling paneling to fit. Second, install the ceiling panels and fan. A nail gun is the most efficient tool when installing ceiling panels. This is easier than holding the panel while swinging the hammer. Be sure the ceiling is wired for a fan and light before installing all of the paneling. The fan helps the porch stay eight to ten degrees cooler than the outdoors, while the light allows the porch to be used at night. Have someone hold the fan while the other person connects the wires and screws the fan into place. The ceiling's trim should hide the seams in the paneling to give a nice appearance. Third, frame the porch.

These homeowner's 2 x 4 frame was sized to fit the standard-width screens installed later. You can either nail the crosspieces directly through the vertical braces or toenail them into place. Fourth, attach the interior paneling. A staple gun secures the interior plywood beadboard paneling. The panels were level across the top, but because the concrete floor was uneven the bottom of the paneling had to be trimmed. Fifth, attach and level the exterior paneling. The hardboard exterior panels should be added individually starting from the bottom. The first panel was custom-cut to fit the bumpy ground line. It did require a few attempts to get the paint's pale yellow tone to match the weathered version of the house. A benefit of using weather-resistant exterior paint is that it only requires washing with soap and water to maintain its color.

The paint thus maintains its great looks unless you use a chain saw to mess up with it. Finally, finish the screen. Vinyl grids are screwed into the wooden frame and the screens attach to the channels in these grids. This creates a staple-less installation of fiberglass of aluminum screens. Once the screens are rolled into the grids, the excess screen is trimmed off. Mallet snaps the caps over the vinyl channels and locks the screens into place.

The magazine writer Ray Walberg is really interested in questions about saw sharpening. Working on his writings, the columnist established his experience on issues associated to chain saws and saw sharpening.

Small Bathroom Designs

Homeowners need not stress over small bathroom designs. Although the space element may be limited, there are several creative ways to maximize what you have. Here are some top ideas for small bathrooms.

Pick Light Colors

The color of your bath is crucial to creating great first impressions. Small bathrooms should always avoid dark, heavy colors. These can make your bath seem both assuming and smaller than it is. Light, pastel colors on the other hand with small designs are perfect. These colors create the impression of spaciousness. These are also the colors that can make any room fell fresh, airy and relaxing. Mix and match pastel colors for your floor, walls, cabinets and fixtures.

Use Corner and Overhead Spaces

Make use of unused spaces. The key is to make the most out of these small unused areas. You could for example push your bath tub and toilet to the wall to ensure that no remaining unused space at the back remains. You can also use corners for a hanging sink and a corner shower booth. Overhead spaces can still accommodate cabinets, hamper hooks and racks. As much as possible, keep the floor space free except for your tub, shower stall and toilet.

Choose Smaller Bath Items

Pick out small items and bathroom accessories. Bath fixtures don't come in single sizes. If you do not have a family of giants, then you can settle for a smaller toilet, bathtub and sink. Do make sure though that you have fixtures that you are comfortable using. Consult the biggest member of your family when picking the smallest possible fixture available.

Use Mirrors

All bathrooms need mirrors. Small bathrooms would look perfect with unadorned mirrors. Extremely small bathrooms might have to do with small round mirrors. Small baths though that aren't exactly too cramped could use wide mirrors that stretch across walls. It may not be obvious to some but mirrors are design accents that are more than just functional. These reflective surfaces will help make your bathroom seem larger.

Get Lights and Windows

Aside from mirrors, lights also help extend the perception of space. As much as possible, natural light sources should be preferred over artificial ones. Windows over bathtubs or overhead openings bring in not just light but a breath of fresh air.

Use night lights wisely. Opt for generous light fixtures that aren't just limited to the center of the room. Attach dimmers so you can adjust light options when you are in the mood for subdued lights.

Think Minimal

Limit your bathroom items and accessories. As much as possible, stick to only the essential items that a bathroom should have. Move magazine racks, extra cabinets, excess hampers and towel racks from the bathroom.

Small bathroom designs may require your creativity. With a little imagination, you can easily convert a small bathroom into the dream haven you have always wanted.

Find the latest in small bathroom designs. Read more about bathroom remodeling ideas.

Choosing House Blue Prints

'I want a closet in my bedroom that I could fit a queen size bed into if I wanted. I want to feel like a serious celebrity when I walk into that closet and choose from my shoes, clothing or accessories. However, I want it to fit into a plan using only this much square footage for the house.'

This is what I sounded like before our home was built. I was very serious and confident with what I wanted, and no one was going to talk me out of it.

So, I was pretty surprised when the guy who would be working on my house blue prints looked at me like I had just licked the bottom of my own shoe. I had thought long and hard about what I wanted, and was ready for the house blue prints to be drawn so we could get this process moving.

We had established a budget, and within that budget, we had planned the square footage of our home. We weren't able to go above that budget, either. So, my dream of escaping into my celebrity closet with the full length mirror and the 'dressing room' sign on the door came crashing down around my ankles. This is why.

Although I had established my wants before getting the house blue prints, I hadn't really thought about my needs. If we would have gone with the closet size I wanted, including the other things we had to have, our bedroom would not have been large enough to accommodate our needs.

Still, I really wanted it, so I tried to convince my husband and the guy doing the house blue prints. I tried to compromise; however, they assured me that no contractor would build our bedroom around our bed.

My husband also refused to leave the same sheets on our bed for the rest of our lives, and hang our clothes in the kitchen pantry. We might have been able to squeeze our bed into the bedroom, but we would have had about an inch of room to walk around in.

When choosing house blue prints, the first thing you should consider is your family's needs. Most people build houses that they plan to live in for the rest of their lives, so you have to plan for an expanding family, accumulated personal items or furniture, and anything else you may gain through the years.

You don't want to have your home built and realize in a few years that you have outgrown it. My own needs wouldn't have been fulfilled had I went with the house blue prints the way I wanted them.

In fact, I found out that a lot of people end up unhappy with their homes because they chose to overlook their needs for something they wanted at the moment.

After quite a while, and a lot of blood, sweat and tears, our hour was up. What I got was a set of house blue prints that accommodated our needs, and most of our wants. I didn't think I would be, but I am very happy with the size of my closet.

My husband is happy that he didn't have to purchase a wardrobe to fill the closet I had originally wanted, and the man who handled our house blue prints is happy that I left him alive.

Amy G recently went through the process of building a home and shares what she discovered on her website House Blue Prints. Visit to learn all the tips, tricks and advice you need for choosing the perfect house plan for your home.

Do Stock Plans Contain Everything I Need

One question that we receive almost every day is whether or not the plan package for plan 1234 contains everything that a person would need to build the home in the state of "INSERT STATE / LOCATION HERE"... As such, we wanted to provide some additional information to clarify the subject.

In most areas of the country, these stock house plans will be everything you need to build, but not necessarily everything you need to obtain a building permit.

In addition to the house plans you order, you may also need a site plan that shows where the house is going to be located on the property. You might also need beams sized to accommodate roof loads specific to your region. Your home builder can usually help you with this. You may also need a septic design unless your lot is served by a sanitary sewer system. Many areas now have area-specific energy codes that also have to be followed. This normally involves filling out a simple form providing documentation that your house plans are in compliance.

In some regions, there is a second step you will need to take to insure your house plans are in compliance with local codes. Some areas of North America have very strict engineering requirements. Examples of this would be earthquake-prone areas of California and the Pacific Coast, hurricane risk areas of the Florida, Gulf & Carolina Coasts. New York, New Jersey, Nevada, and parts of Illinois require review by a local professional as well. If you are building in these areas, it is most likely you will need to hire a state licensed structural engineer to analyze the design and provide additional drawings and calculations required by your building department. If you arent sure, building departments typically have a handout they will give you listing all of the items they require to submit for and obtain a building permit.

Additionally, stock plans do not have a professional stamp attached. If your building department requires one, they will only accept a stamp from a professional licensed in the state where you plan to build. In this case, you will need to take your house plans to a local engineer or architect for review and stamping. In addition, plans which are used to construct homes in Nevada are required to be drawn by a licensed Nevada architect.

It is always a good idea to check with your local city, municipality, and state building authorities to ensure that your home construction will meet all applicable building codes Hopefully, the above information will provide you with a good basis for evaluatiing your particular house plan situation.

To find out what documents you should expect with your house plans, see the FAQ at http://www.houseplancentral.com

Kevin Carden is a publisher of several stock house plan websites and informational resources, the most famous being http://www.HousePlanCentral.com House Plan Central has a large collection of home plans and unique house plans in different architectural styles, from the nation's top house designers.

Do You Know When To Change Your Charcoal Water Filtration System?

With the ease of installation, decontamination of the most deadly contaminants, and long use you can get out of the filters, it is no wonder why charcoal water filtration is the most popular method. Because of the reasons stated above, charcoal water filtration comprises 95% of those used for domestic reasons. While it does last longer than a lot of the other filtration systems, it is important that you are aware of when your charcoal water filtration system has gone bad.

Before we get into when your water filtration system has gone bad, we have to cover what it purifies. The main reason this water purification method is so popular is because it filters out two of the most deadly contaminants, Cryptosporidium and Guardia. With the help of activated silver, some filters can be enhanced to help provide extra antibacterial protection. This will not only help protect you against contaminants, but will also allow your charcoal water filtration system to last longer.

The purpose of water filtration systems is to clean your tap water and make the water more tasteful. The worst thing you can do with your charcoal water filtration system is allow the filter to go bad and not replace the filter. By doing this you are allowing mold and bacteria to attack the system and ruin it. So how do you know when to change your filter?

The typical charcoal water filter will last a family between 6-9 months long. Obviously, the more you use the filter the quicker you may have to change the filter. However, you may be hurting your filter by not using it as well. If you leave your filter unused for an extended period of time you are leaving it susceptible to mold and bacterial contamination.

What the charcoal water filter is doing is gathering any sort of "garbage" that is in your tap water. The main component of this "garbage" is quite capable of decomposing and attracting bacteria after a short period of non use. You may have to change your filter even more during the summer due to warm weather and humidity that can accelerate mold and bacterium even quicker.

The longer your charcoal water filter is in use the more the efficiency declines. Because of this, it is vital that you replace the filter within the 6-9 month timetable and possibly sooner. One of the best and most obvious ways to tell when it is time to change your charcoal water filtration system is through taste. If the water begins to change in taste, especially after a vacation or a long period of non use, it is time to change the filter.

The point of you having a charcoal water filtration system is to have purified and cleansed water. If you are unaware of what the signs are of a bad filter, how are you going to know when to change the filter? By knowing the signs and timetable of when to change your water filtration system you will have a continuous supply of cleansed and purified water.

Naturally Skintastic specializes in finding truly effective Natural Products as alternatives to those found commercially. For more information about All Natural Vitamin C Shower Filters, please visit: NaturallySkintastic.Com

Build Your Own Sauna - What You Need To Know First

It can be easier than you think to build your own sauna. With some basic carpentry skills and a little specialized understanding you can be relaxing in your own home sauna in no time at all.

There are a few important decisions to be made to be sure you end up with the sauna that best fits your situation. One consideration is how much work you want to put into the building of your sauna. There are prebuild units that are delivered to your door and literally take only a few minutes to set up. You can also get precut kits that take longer to construct but give you a more custom sauna when finished. The ultimate is to build your own sauna from scratch. Even this method is not as difficult as you might expect. The costs tend to go down considerably as you add more and more of your own elbow grease.

Another concern is the location. Should your sauna be inside or out, attached or freestanding? This may depend on whether you are in a rural or city environment. Locating near a water source is also important. If you are outside this can be a lake or pond to jump into. For indoor saunas a nearby shower can be used to rinse off. In either case before you start building think about getting water to your sauna. Along with a convenient way to rinse off it is nice to have an area to change into and out of sauna apparel. Benches for sitting on while removing clothes and hooks for hanging them are a great feature.

Deciding how you will heat your sauna is a major decision. Conventional saunas are heated with either wood, electric or gas heaters. Any of these can be used dry or wet depending on whether you sprinkle water on the heated rocks or not. Some people like it dry and some prefer wet, it comes down to personal tastes. Before deciding which kind of stove you want think about getting fuel to your heater. Wood may be difficult to acquire in the city but electric or gas hookups may be impractical in more remote areas. Costs can vary greatly depending on the brand and type of stove you get. A relatively new (compared to the 2000+ year history of saunas) type of sauna is the infrared sauna. These use infrared emitting lights to penetrate and heat your skin. It is a little like your microwave oven in that the food (you) is heated but the surrounding air is not. Infrared saunas are always dry. Because of the complexity of installing and correctly positioning the infrared wave emitters I suggest you buy a prebuilt model if you go with infrared.

There are a few special concerns that distinguish building a sauna from other conventional frame construction. Moisture is a concern. There should be a vapor barrier to keep the heat and steam from escaping. Any electrical connections need to be protected from excessive moisture. Ventilation is necessary to keep the oxygen level up and if done right it will also help to evenly distribute the heat.

All in all building a sauna is not an overwhelming task. If you can do some basic framing and simple finished woodworking you are well on your way to building your own sauna that can be enjoyed for years to come.

Mike Hirn has been a sauna enthusiast for many years and his website provides a wealth of information about building, using and enjoying home saunas.

www.the-home-sauna-center.com

7 Tips For Buying An Outdoor Fireplace

Before buying an outdoor fireplace, there are several factors to take into account. Always remember that the safety of your family and property is the most important consideration.

1. Size matters

When comparing fireplaces, look at the size of the fire area before the height. If the firebox is small, wood buying and cutting is more difficult.

Requesting for specially cut wood from your supplier increases your cost.

Try to find a large firebox, dont bother with the tall and thin fireplace. A small firebowl will cost more down the road. You dont need a large fire just because you have a large fireplace, just use less wood to have a smaller fire.

A good fireplace burns more cleanly and more efficiently than a firepit design having no smoke stack. The fireplace draws air into the fire and blows out the neck for an efficient burn. Firepit designs tend to smoke and smolder much more than a traditional fireplace design because of poor airflow.

2. Proper maintenance

Fireplaces made in the more commercial copper, clay or sheet steel don't have the longevity or safety of aluminum or cast iron. Sheet metal fireplaces are available at a bargain cost. They're pretty much a disposable type of fireplace. Once metal sheet fireplaces start to rust, they have already outlived their usefulness. Check the gauge or thickness of the metal. A metal too thin might melt.

Some cast iron fireplaces have sheet metal necks. If thats the case, check if the manufacturer has replacement parts available and cost. Frequent replacement for the neck is not what you want.

Cast iron must be maintained to prevent rust. It is a little difficult to maintain. But a well maintained cast iron fireplace will last you a long time. Also, consider the placement of your cast iron fireplace.

The cast iron fireplace tends to stain the surface it stands on.

An occasional paint job with a high temperature paint will slow down rusting. The cast iron is heavy and can stand a lot of abuse.

Copper looks great initially but after a couple of uses it tends to be green and rusty. Several companies put holes in the bottom of the firepits to drain ash and water out during rain. Firepits without holes will be filled with water when it rains.

Cast Aluminum is one of the best buys. It is easy to maintain and a long lifespan. An aluminum fireplace does not warp and only has a slightly lower melting temperature than cast iron. Cast aluminum does not rust. It is also considerably lighter than cast iron making it easier to move around.

3. Weigh it

When comparing fireplaces, check the weight. Most fireplaces are produced by weight, so they are bought by weight. Be sure that youre comparing the same material, copper to copper or cast iron to cast iron.

4. Aluminum feature

Cast aluminum is by far a better choice for a novice outdoor enthusiast. The fireplace is easier to maintain and can be easily moved around. It may be brought to a home by the lake or stored during winter along Northern areas. Store it to prevent damage or possible theft.

5. Clay fireplace

The most disturbing problem with a clay fireplace is that it can fall apart without prior warning. When the bottom falls out, it can be quite a mess. Avoid placing your clay fireplace on a wooden deck or any surface that can easily be damaged by heat or fire. Place it on cement or tile.

If you choose to purchase a clay fireplace, take safety precautions. Use a spark arrestor and a mouthscreen for safety. The extra cost is well worth it. A clay fireplace is generally cheaper but has a shorter lifespan than either aluminum or cast iron.

6. Surround view fireplaces and raised firepits

Most surround view fireplaces are built with light materials. Surround view fireplaces are easy to tip over because of the light material used to make it. When it is tipped over, it will send ash and embers everywhere.

Safety is an issue with surround view fireplaces. Slight breezes might send embers and catch fire with flammable materials.

If you're buying a raised firepit, be sure that it comes with a lid. Otherwise, ash will be spread all over your patio when it rains.

7. What to burn

Hardwood is by far the most popular fuel for outdoor fireplaces. Pinon wood has a pleasant pine scent when burning. It keeps the flame active and generates good heat. It also helps in keeping insects away. Other fuel sources are propane, gel inserts, manufactured firelogs and natural gas.

Pine cones and applewood can be added for more aroma.

Several fireplaces come with inserts for natural gas and propane.

For more great fireplace information and resources check out:

http://www.fireplaceadvisor.info

When to Purchase a Metal Building

Have you decided to go for a metal building considering all its advantages? Are you sure but do not know where to start? Does the when question bother you often?

7 Tips for choosing THE RIGHT TIME to purchase a metal building

Do your homework Find out what, why and where

The first step is to know what to buy and from where. Have a basic idea about what exactly you want, what is your budget and when do you plan to buy it beforehand. This brings clarity and purpose. Next, you should search for various options available. For example Who are the various dealers? What is their specialization? What do they offer? What is the best price? What do friends recommend? Be absolutely sure about a dealer before buying or even deciding upon a dealer.

Quality comes first Avoid being foisted

We have stories like an XYZ buying a new amalgam of metal which was unbelievably cheap and later realizing that it was just not what he had bargained for. Contrary to what some dealers would tell you, all metals are not the same. In fact, the same metal can vary in quality. The cheaper is rarely, if ever, the best option. Do not compromise on quality.

The last piece is never the last option Dismiss Pressure tactics

Be wary of the dealer keen on selling you the last piece of a most extraordinary building or the one selling you a cancelled order at half-the-price. These are pressure tactics to stop you from investigating further.

In-sync with the times what suits best

You ought to be aware of the latest trends in the metal building industry to make the best bargain. See the latest styles and be aware of the newest trends. Is your dealer selling you a stone-age style building?

Name does matter Reputation counts

If confused, choose the brand. When there is nothing else to judge, it is safer to go with a known brand. Refer to customer testimonials and hear it straight from the horses mouth.

Buy rather than built a better option

Prefabricated buildings enable erection of buildings to be a do-it-yourself thing. It is better to choose a company which can tell you where to buy from in place of a company selling a building.

What do you want as per requirements?

For instance, do you require a steel building with clear span, modular or single slope frames? Where do you want the doors to be placed? Are you comfortable communicating with your dealer? Get full value for your money clarify your requirements.

Mike Zhmudikov is a professional copywriter and seo consultant.

Home Security Alarms - Get the Best Protection for Your New Home

In order to protect your house, a home alarm system is your best bet. Two main types of home alarm systems are available: a local alarm and the monitored system. Local alarms make a lot of noise in order to scare off an intruder which is what they were designed to do. A fully monitored home alarm system not only makes a great deal of noise, but it sends out an emergency signal to a monitoring center so that a proper response can be made in case of an emergency. There is another benefit that a monitored home alarm security system has. It may qualify you for a deduction on your homeowners insurance policy.

Which home alarm system is the best one for you? Whether you are building a home or buying a new one, this should be the first question on your mind. You want to see that your loved ones are protected as well as your valuables. Lets narrow the field down so that it will not be such a confusing choice to pick the right home alarm security system. Lets look at the features of a hard-wired system and those of the wireless system.

The Hard-Wired System
A hard-wired alarm security system is usually best installed while your house is being built so that all of the necessary cables can be installed ahead of time. Many of the components that are used with this system are much cheaper which makes it an excellent choice for your pocketbook! However, you may be spending more money on maintenance costs down the road. This is probably the only drawback of a hard-wired home alarm security system. The great thing about the hard-wired components is that you will not have to worry about weak transceiver signals since they are run through wires.

The Wireless System
The other option that you have for your home alarm security system is the wireless system. It has much to offer, and one of the reasons that it stands out as the best system is that it can be installed if you are building a new home or moving into an older home. It may be an expensive investment, but down the road the maintenance costs are rather cheap. You will probably only have to be concerned about maintaining the power sources for those cameras, motion detection devices and microphones that you set up in your home. The one great feature that set this apart from a hard-wired system is that since it is wireless, it will be able to work on a WIFI network. You will be able to monitor your home from any location you happen to be in as long as you are connected to the Internet. With WIFI technology, you will be able to control the wireless home security camera with a laptop, a remote computer, or even with a WIFI capable phone. The type of technology gives your endless options of how you will be able to monitor your family as well as your valuables.

Now that you have narrowed your choices down to a hard-cabled or a wireless system, you are now able to choose the best home alarm security system to protect those things you value the most.

Get all your home security questions answered at http://homesecurity.best-info-on.com

Don't Forget The Bathroom Essentials

Many people spend a long time choosing their bathtub and bathroom furniture, but then make the major mistake of not spending the same, or a similar, amount of time on choosing the right type of faucets. This can be a major mistake simply due to the fact that if you choose the wrong type it can really destroy the look of your bathroom. This article will take a look at some of the considerations that need to be borne in mind when choosing faucets for various bathroom styles.

The first thing to look at is the overall decorative style of your bathroom in total, because it is here that you will get the first pointers as to what type of faucets you need to buy. You can split faucets into two general design styles, and they are the antique style and the contemporary style, though within each of these there are many different types of variations. However, if you take this as a starting point you'll be well on your way to finding the right type of faucet for your bathroom design and avoid buying something that really does look out of place.

If your bathroom is done in a traditional style, and particularly if it has a freestanding bathtub, especially a claw foot bathtub, you really need to make sure that the faucets you choose are antique in style in order to keep in with the vintage flavor of the overall decoration. There are special types of faucets made for clawfoot bathtubs, and these give you a wide range of options in various materials such as brass and copper. These two materials are some of the best for the antique style, since they really do hark back to a bygone era.

If your bathroom is done in a more modern style, which usually means you have put in a lot of fitted cupboards and possibly a corner bathtub, then you need to look at faucets that merit this kind of design. One of the best materials is chrome, because it is really does have a very modern flavor, and will really fit into any bathroom that is done in a modern design. Don't forget also that many types of faucets are now available in touchless models, which means that you do not need to even touch the tap and simply need to put the hand beneath the faucet in order to turn the water on. These are usually better for the modern look, since the antique style generally benefits from having faucets that have the old-fashioned heavy handles.

As you can see, when you choose your faucets it is no use choosing the first one you set your eyes on. Take time to think about the overall design style of your bathroom and you're sure to find a faucet which will suit.

Carl Formby owns and operates http://www.bestfaucetsbuy.com, a website dedicated to buying Faucets including Automatic Faucets

A Basement Remodeling Picture To Help You Design Your Plan

Surely there's more than enough of a basement remodeling picture in the market today. Building a basement requires time well spent in planning. What makes this project more exciting is when you get to compare old dingy ones with the newly renovated ones. The best documentation are photos of it.

Another exciting advantage about a picture is that you're actually helping others get some ideas from you. Sure you did it all by yourself from design planning to walling system and down up to the finishing touches. But not everyone is as talented and skillful as you. Most of them who fall short of ideas go to photo galleries online for reference.

Some can be so well-designed that they don't look like they're just basements at all.5B4 This is what makes it more challenging and interesting. On an old smelly and damp room, a good idea can make wonders. So take this route and aim for a basement that is just like what you see in a remodeling picture. Get your inspiration from it.

The first thing to do is to identify what you want to achieve with your project. Here are some commonly used purposes for such:

- As a Home Office - The basement is the perfect place for setting up a home office. Chose the best area to place your office tables and chairs. Make sure there's enough light coming in from the windows. You won't be working at night, will you? Not only does it make sense, it also saves you energy and therefore money.

- Basement Bar - If you have lots of friends, you might want to invite them for the weekend. You can set a bar in it. Look for a picture that falls under this category. You will discover that there are so many ideas that can help you.

- Entertainment Area - Some homeowners purposefully use it as an entertainment room since basements can be dark. If you look into a photo of an entertainment area, you'd be surprised how beautiful and cozy it can make you feel just by looking at them.

- Guest Rooms - If your family is huge and you thought the rooms are not enough to fill up all the members, set up extra rooms below. Some have fantastic interior designs of guest rooms you think of spending the rest of your days t59Dhere. This is true. Look for a picture under this category and you'll find out.

Depending on your needs and creativity, you can even think of more plans for your basement. All it takes is one picture to help you get ideas and draft your plan. From there you will be able to know how much it's going to cost you. You will also understand how long it will take you to finish it. There are also basement photo galleries that illustrate how each step in remodeling is done. Get yourself started. It should be fun.

How can a basement remodeling picture help a clueless homeowner? Know more regarding basement remodel idea from experts now.

Different Types of Tile Shower Pans

Your tile shower pan can be of three types. If you are considering installing a new shower you should know your choices. If you have problems with your current shower leaking, knowing how the shower is put together helps you talk to a tradesman who will work on it.

Traditional Tile Shower Pans

Most likely your existing shower pan is made using traditional methods. That means the5B4 shower floor is built up with masonry or a cement mix. The concept used for this method is simple, but there are several tricks and some art involved. This method if properly done will produce ceramic showers that work great for many decades.

Very briefly the traditional pan is built as follows. First, set a special shower drain in place with the drain top at the height of the finished floor. Make sure you have a good solid sub floor topped with roofing felt. Then pour in mortar mix and slope it to the drain. The next layer is a waterproof vinyl membrane. This sheet is the waterproof barrier which is glued to the drain. Above the membrane or liner goes the top layer of masonry sloped to the drain. Then finally install the tile and grout to finish the floor.

Know that the masonry and grout in a shower floor are not waterproof. Only the vinyl liner is waterproof. If installed properly, you have a long-lasting set-up. If mistakes are made, you have a problem. Also the shower floor is not maintenance free. The joints at the floor to walls must be checked regularly and may require caulking from time to time.

Fiberglass Shower Pans

A quick and easy way to build a shower pan is to install a fiberglass pan made for this purpose. These are the pans you see at building stores. Tile cannot be installed on these pans. It's fast and relatively easy but fiberglass pans have negatives. These pans do not last as7E5 long as traditional pans. They are easily scratched and damaged. And a fiberglass shower pan does not have the luxury look and feel of a ceramic tile shower.

Tile Ready Shower Pans

There are several systems now that make installing a shower pan faster than the traditional way. All the systems use a vinyl pan with an integral drain designed for installation of ceramic tile over the top of the pan. Methods vary, but systems contain material to line the walls and make a completely waterproof shower. Some systems use a mortar base for the shower pan to sit on. Others use a special foam base.

The advantages of these systems over traditional systems is speed. No waiting for mortar layers to dry. Also the level of art and skill for the installer is less. The disadvantage is cost. Typically the tile ready showers are far more expensive than a traditional tile shower pan. The material is sometimes as expensive as the whole job cost the traditional way.

Puzzled about how to build a ceramic tile shower? Need more information? Visit our site for tile shower pan tips.

We invite you to visit http://www.installingceramictile.net for answers to your ceramic shower questions.

Small Bathroom Design Simplified

You will find that majority of the modern homes have a limited bathroom space. Homeowners in such a scenB68ario usually accommodate within that limited space, as they do not have any other option. Thus, it is a fact that the small bathroom designs, which make the best use of the space that is available, are now most in demand by the homeowners.

The following guidelines on small bathroom designs are conveniently applicable in case you are designing a bathroom for your new apartment or renovating your old bathroom.

- The small bathrooms look best with the small and deep bathtubs.

- The wall-mounted or pedestal sinks, basins and the small sized baths are simply made for each other, as they hardly occupy much floor space.

- In case, you prefer a shower stall, it is best to use clear shower screens for the enclosure. The best part of this is you will be able to save enough space and make way for enough light, which is unlike the framed opaque shower walls.

- You can have recessed and floating cabinets in your bathroom; this should make ample space.

- The small bathroom designs usually come with enough storage space for you to be able to stash away lots of clutter. Therefore, ensure that your bathroom has enough storage shelves and cabinets.

- Place the windows near the ceiling; this way, there will be enough wall space for you to include some storage cabinets beneath it.

- You would be clever enough to position the toilet in an alcove, by making use of the wall-space above for fix opening the shelves.

- When it comes to doors, most of the people are going for the sliding doors, which can be easily slid into the in-wall cavities. If you are opting for the hinged door, you can get the towel-rack installed on the door itself.

The homeowners need to abide by certain design - as well as dimension-parameters when planning the small bathroom designs, which depend on the area/zone. You can also try out a few optical illusion tricks for creating a space illusion.

Making use of light and mirrors

When you want the space inside your bathroom to look large, you can take the help of lights and mirrors. Try to make use of natural lights, which would surely make your bathroom look more bright and large, generating a sense of comfy. You can also try adding skylights and windows. This is indeed a great idea. However, when thinking to make use of electric lighting, you can arrange for the source of the light just below where the shelves have been installed.

When you place a mirror inside the bathroom, it helps in proper distribution of light and this seems to extend the overall dimension of the space. Such a strategy makes your small bathroom look effectively illuminated and it gives way to visual expansiveness.

Make use of tricky designs

Introduce vertical lines on the upper edges of the walls of your bathroom. This helps in creating height7B2 illusion. You can also have tiles installed on the walls of your bathroom and edge the top lining with designed border tiles to make things look more magical and impressive.

This is the way you should make use of the floor area of your bathroom and the type of tiles you choose to use for your bathroom should well compliment all sorts of small bathroom designs. No matter what you are going for - floor tiles or wall tiles they should be having identical shapes and light colored shades.

Making use of color to create illusions

Color is the best way of creating space illusions. Choose softer, lighter tones like pastel shades, neutrals or whites - these colors are sure to make your bathroom look as if having enough space and dimension.  Such colors also help in proper light distribution. Again, if you are planning to cover the walls of your bathroom with wallpapers then make sure to select plain and simple designs.

Read our Home Improvement newsletter with new fresh articles every week, Kitchen, Basement, Bathroom improvements and many other subjects at Do It Yourself Tips

Remodeling Your Basement

The American family is requiring more and more space to spread out. Basements fill this need and add value at the same time. If you're lucky enough to have one, you are ahead of the game in terms of resale value.

But, what if it's unfinished or you want to remodel it? Following are four things to consider when taking on a basement remodeling project to get the most value for your money.

Basement Remodeling:

The Proper Use of the Space One of the very first things you want to consider is what kind of basement remodeling project it's going to be. Are you putting in a home5B4 gym, a media room, an in-law suite, a game room, etc.?

To properly answer this question, it's important to figure out your family dynamic, eg:

• Do you often have stay-over visitors who have to sleep on the pull-out couch (in-law suite); or
• Do you work out a lot and wish you could give up the commute and the membership fees to your gym (home gym); or
• Are you starting a new business and need a home office separate from the rest of the house (media room/office).

This is what is meant by figuring out your family dynamic.

Basement Remodeling Costs

Once you decide on the use of the space, figuring out how much your basement remodeling project is going to cost is a simply matter of getting quotes from several contractors.

When remodeling your basement, you can save some money by tackling some of the simpler projects yourself, eg, hanging sheetrock and drywall (if your basement is unfinished); painting; and installing basic cabinetry and sinks.

You can call in professionals to handle things like electricity, waterproofing and plumbing.

When you are contacting basement remodeling contractors for quotes, make a list of things you absolutely want them to handle. Each one is different, so check several for the best price.

You may want to get quotes on things like electrical wiring, plumbing, painting, ventilation systems, insulation588, waterproofing, floor installation choices, etc.

Basement Remodeling and Resell Value

According to a 2006 annual cost vs. value report by RemodelingOnline, the average cost for finishing a basement ran about $51,000. But, you recoup 90% of that upon resale. So, it's an investment worth making.

Basement Remodeling and Length of Time in the Home

As cited above, basement remodeling is not cheap, but is well worth the investment. This comes with one major caveat: how long you plan to stay in the home.

If you plan to sell, make sure you will recoup the money you spent on your basement remodeling project. While it's easy to recoup $1,000 spent on landscaping, it takes a steady, strong real estate market to recoup $50,000 (if you spend the average).

If you plan to move within the next 3, 5 or 7 years, ask yourself is a basement remodeling project is financially prudent.

All Around the Home is an online home improvement contractor directory, where homeowners can search for contractors by region and specialty like basement remodeling Fix the Home is a website where homeowners can get more information on all types of home improvement projects like remodeling at 297http://www.fixthehome.com/cat/remodeling/topics/basement/

Home Sauna Accessories Enhance Your Enjoyment

When building or installing your own private home sauna, there are obviously some important considerations you'll need to consider. Before proceeding, you'll need to make the following crucial decisions:

• What type of home sauna do you want to install? For instance, do you have the dedicated space for a full-sized cabin, or do you need a personal sauna that will be easily portable?

• Will your sauna be indoors or outside?

• What heat source will you be using for your home steam sauna? Some common options are far infrared heat, wood stoves, gas, and electric.

• What type of sauna design will meet your needs? Will you be the sole user, or will the sauna need to accommodate several people? Do you want to include a shower or separate changing area?

• Will you be building your sauna yourself from scratch, using a modular sauna kit, or purchasing pre-cut sauna materials?

Once you've answered these basic questions and begun the process of building your home sauna, you might want to consider supplementing it with some convenient sauna accessories to enhance the experience. You'll find a host of useful add-on items that can help you get the most out of your therapeutic heat sessions. Below, we've compiled a listing of some of the most popular.

Home Sauna Accessories

Bucket and ladle: One of the consummate aspects of a steam sauna is the act of pouring hot water over sauna stones to create humidity-rich vapors. When choosing a sauna bucket and dipper for this procedure, be sure to choose a moisture-resistant material.

Stereo and CD player: Enjoy your favorite music or talk radio shows during sauna sessions with a moisture-proof audio component.

Vapor-proof lighting: Enhance your sauna with upgraded home interior lighting. You may even want to invest in dimming lights.

Timers: Although many pre-fab saunas for home installations come with a timer, you might consider upgrading to a digital version.

Aromatherapy oils: In recent years, it's become a popular practice to incorporate essential oils into sauna sessions, either by adding a few drops of fragrance to the water in the sauna bucket or by using aromatic dispensers. Combining therapeutic scents with sauna heat has been linked to a host of mood enhancements and health benefits. Try adding a little lavender to help 5AEreduce the stress from a long, hard day, or achieve sharper concentration levels with a bit of ginger. Another popular sauna fragrance is birch, a nod to the birch twigs often used in traditional Finnish saunas.

Thermometer: Most home sauna kits come equipped with one, but if you're building your own unit from scratch, you'll need to invest in a reliable sauna thermometer to ensure that your unit is operating at a safe heat level.

Clocks: If your sauna timer doesn't come equipped with one, you'll need to invest in a moisture-resistant clock to keep track of the duration of your sessions. This is an absolute necessity to ensure your safety and prevent overheating.

Infrared sauna accessories: Rising in popularity in recent years, home infrared saunas can be enhanced with a variety of modern add-ons, including headrests, molded plastic flooring, and fog-resistant mirrors.

Once you've made the larger investment in a sauna, these supplemental sauna accessories should be relatively inexpensive. You can purchase them at any sauna store, or from a large variety of online retailers. Although not all of them are required, they can go a long way toward enhancing your enjoyment of your home sauna.

About the Author:

Kevin Urban is the editor for Sauna-Talk.com, a consumer guide to 3E4home saunas and DIY kits. Read about the health benefits of steam saunas and build your own outdoor sauna with a pre-fab kit.

Copyright 2008 Sauna-Talk.com

Permission is granted to publish this article on your site providing all links are included and clickable.

Vinyl Shutters - Home Improvement Spruce-Up With A Shutter Installation

Incorporating vinyl shutters into your home interior design transforms you into a master manipulator of light and shadow, while outdoor vinyl shutters add color and brightness to the exterior of your family's living quarters. A dramatic improvement in curb appeal is one of the main benefits of a quality vinyl window shutter installation.

Revamping Windows With Interior Vinyl Shutters

Interior vinyl shutters are a favorite among do-it-yourself remodeling enthusiasts, due to the straightforward installation process. Kits include fully assembled window shutters, except in the case of more sizeable custom shutters. You also receive all the shutter hardware and components needed for a successful DIY project. However, if heavy-duty hinges, screws, hanging strips, and filler strips sound like a foreign language to you, it may be advisable to call in the experts.

Well-crafted vinyl shutters should be manufactured from exterior grade vinyl, with the characteristic smooth finish, that ensures permanent, fresh color without fading, peeling, or scratching. In contrast to wood shutters, these window coverings are not prone to warping, and nasty surface cracks won't appear overnight. Aluminum reinforcements add strength, especially in larger shutters.

Bathroom and kitchen remodeling call for a window treatment suitable for high humidity areas. The moisture resistant properties of vinyl shutters make them ideal companions for the windows in these rooms. Vinyl shutters also sport superb insulation qualities, enhancing energy efficiency. The insulation also contributes to a reduction in outside noise interference.

Interior vinyl shutters are designed for windows of all shapes and sizes. Patio doors and French doors can also be softened with shutters. Look for shutters that brandish blades of a reasonable thickness, especially if the shutter is fairly wide. The tilt bar, which should include an adjustable tension screw, must have a smooth action. The durability of the shutter, and its ease of use, depend largely on this small, yet vital component.

Choose shades and styles that complement your interior paint colors, soft furnishings, and other aspects of your home interior design. If your idea is to install a product with a wood-like appearance, make sure that the louvers are opaque. This will also maximize the light filtering ability of the vinyl shutter.

A Flair Fix With Outdoor Vinyl Shutters

Curb appeal has to do with a variety of factors, such as gardening and landscaping, paint finishes, patio ideas, and awnings. Fixed vinyl shutters have the potential to upgrade the aesthetic appeal of your property drastically, with a minimum of fuss.

If you don't require functional shutters, outdoor vinyl shutters are an inexpensive alternative to wooden shutters. Available in every imaginable hue, these elegant, fixed shutters feature styles such as louvered, raised panel, and board and batten. Modern technology ensures color that remains bright, with no chipping or fading.

Functional, hinged designs for sun protection are also available, but these are only usable during stable, calm weather. Extensive warranties accompany well-crafted, low-maintenance vinyl shutters, attesting to their durability.

Transform a run-down veteran into a vivacious dame, with the magical touch of vinyl shutters.

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Copyright of this article: 2006 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.

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Green Home Remodeling

Americans are now spending up to 160 billion each year on remodeling their homes and businesses. A fraction of this money has been focused on what is known as "green construction". Green construction or remodeling is using energy saving, recycled products, and is experiencing nothing less than a renaissance or rebirth. You can help restore a significant portion of the world's ecosystems by using "green construction". Such a practice can also help create a healthier indoor environment for your family.

Green remodeling is simple, but many homeowners interested in green building and remodeling have no idea what it involves and are therefore confused and intimidated. They think it consists not only of excessive expenses, but difficulty in getting the appropriate green products. Some also have misconceptions about the aesthetics of a green house. Some concern themselves about the misconception that they will appear to be living like hippies of the 1970's. But it is merely a process through which you can redefine the way you live, a clean slate on which you can express your visions, dreams, and principles. The process offers a vehicle through which you can manifest and integrate your core values into your sacred space.

The hardest part for a homeowner is deciding just how "green" they want their rooms or homes to be. When it comes to green remodeling, you don't have to do everything green, but anything you do will help. Are you updating an antiquated home? Have you outlived the functionality of your current design? Are you adding more space because of a change in lifestyle? Are you simply tired of your interiors and want something new?

The most important thing to remember is to pick and choose among the many options; design features and green building products that will best serve your interests. If you are purchasing new materials you can choose organic, low-impact, and healthy products such as bamboo flooring, natural fiber carpeting, natural plasters, low VOC paints and stains, as well as non-synthetic, natural furnishings and accessories, such as bedding, linens, and cleaning products.

You can use products made with high levels of salvaged (natural stone, lumber), recycled (fly ash in concrete), or agricultural byproducts (wheatboard and linoleum) content. These types of products reduce resource demand and help keep waste out of landfills. Choose products that are durable and low-maintenance; these are desirable because they need to be refinished and replaced less often, they save you money and save energy.

Try to use products that are locally or regionally produced. Local products support the local economy and may have lower levels of embodied energy, meaning that they require less energy and fewer resources during the production process (including the acquisition of primary material, manufacturing and handling), and especially in transportation.

There is no such thing as a right or wrong set of products. Building green is a thinking process, not a contest to see how many green things you as a homeowner can incorporate into your home. Do what you can within your budget and motivation.

As for the cost of taking on green remodeling, some green building elements may cost more, but many eventually will cost less. You will benefit from their use in energy saving costs for a long time to come, therefore making them a savings to you over the years to come. When it is part of the initial process of setting goals for the project, it becomes matter-of-fact. Many have found that the real cost is in the learning curve, not in the actual implementation of the building process.

The outward and even interior appearances of most green buildings don't look any different than other conventional buildings. The majority of green element differences can be seen only as improved energy efficiency and air quality, which are all built within the structure of the home.

Most recycled products look the same as their conventional counterparts. Most materials have a high recycled content and are non-toxic. Some examples include: recycled red oak and bamboo floors (both consist of water base finish), recycled tile floors, recycled exterior doors, and natural plaster with integrated color. Paint manufacturers are now offering paints low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at typically less than .00 per gallon. For kitchens, you can also find Silestone countertops (which has a high recycled content and is anti-microbial), and you can even find formaldehyde-free cabinets.

Recycling as much material as possible from an existing house demolition and incorporating it into your remodeling project will also save you money. Green products are now becoming increasingly affordable as major manufacturers compete and develop new lines to meet the green-building demand.

You can help restore a significant portion of the world's ecosystems by using "green construction". Just think about changing the world - one room at a time.

About The Author:
Emerson Lockwood write on topics related to remodeling, Home Improvement and Home Financing. You can see more of his home remodeling articles at the Super Home Ideas website: http://www.SuperHomeIdeas.com

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