Small Bathroom Design Problem Solved With A Small Toilet

A small toilet could be the key to your bathroom-remodeling problem

Remodeling small bathrooms can be difficult especially when you try to fit more 221Binto your makeover bathroom than you had in your old one. The key to solving your problem could lie in the design of your new toilet.

Fitting more stuff in your small bathroom

This was the situation that I found myself in when I remodeled my very small bathroom. I wanted to turn the place into a beautiful ceramic heaven that all my family and guests would be pleased to use. I also wanted to add a separate shower cubicle to replace the shower over the bathtub that I hated and this is where the problem lay.

My little bathroom was already crowded with just a bathtub, toilet, washbasin and radiator but I desperately wanted a new shower so I set to work on the design. I armed myself with measuring tape, pencil and graph paper which can be printed for free from here Free Graph Paper for Bathroom remodeling and used it to rearrange the items in bathroom on paper.

By moving the radiator over the bathtub and the washbasin to the opposite wall I managed to free up quite a lot of space but I could see that I still didn't have enough room for the toilet. At least not for one the same size as I had already.

The problems with toilets

The main problem with a lot of toilets is that they take up too much wall space. Not only are the cisterns or tanks too wide but they also often tend to have the water inlet and overflow on the side of the tank, which takes up even more wall space. So I started to look for toilets that would fit into the space that I had available and found that there is quite a lot to choose from.

Choose a small toilet with a bottom inlet feed

I was pleasantly surprised when I started to look for small toilets. I found some that were so tiny that they would fit almost anywhere. Unfortunately they would be very little use for anyone but the most petite of us because they would be completely impractical.

So it's a compromise that we are looking for. A toilet that is big enough to be used by all, and small enough to fit into the available space. You should be able to find small toilets that have cisterns of 16 inches width or less with plumbing that enters from the bottom rather than the side.

The plumbing arrangement helps a lot because side entry takes up a lot of room. The toilet that I chose even directs the overflow into the waste outlet rather than requiring a side-exit pipe to carry it away.

I managed to fit my new small toilet next to my nice new shower cubicle and it all worked out great. I hope that yours does too.

How I remodeled my very small bathroom Very small bathroom remodeling at http://www.bathroomsremodeling.this-info.com

Your Mobile Home Needs Care Too

Renovating manufactured homes or mobile homes often presents new challenges not found in other types of homes. Here are some tips for you to consider when it is time to fix yours.

One of the advantages to living in a manufactured or mobile home is that there are no support beams to worry about. There are no load-bearing walls inside the structure. The roof of a manufactured home is generally supported by the outer walls. So if you need space in your manufactured home, simply removing an interior wall can work wonders. Please note that you may have to renovate other walls so they can provide additional support for the outer walls but this fix should be easily accomplished.

If you do remove the wall, be careful with the surrounding floors and ceilings. Floors in manufactured homes are not thick and may have been weakened from exposure to the outdoors. If you remove an interior wall, you may find wildlife investigating your digs as well. So be sure to fill in any small holes to prevent animals or insects from moving in. This includes nail holes, screw holes and any tiny holes that resulted from taking out the wall. You will need to keep an eye out for critters that may have wandered in.

Another great 2234way to add space is to add a porch. This is an easy project but you must remember to build it as a free-standing unit. Do not try to incorporate it into your manufactured home's structure. Your home was not designed to support an additional porch and it may not be able to bear the additional weight.

If you need additional storage space, consider adding a shed. These are quite durable and can be used for indoor and outdoor seasonal items. Check to make sure the shed is allowed where you live.

Because the space under the flooring is subjected to the elements, it is always a good idea to inspect that space from time to time. Make sure everything is in good repair and be sure to make necessary repairs in a timely manner. Also be sure your home is ready for sudden storms and keep the names of reputable contractors on hand in case disaster strikes your area.

Be sure to plan ahead for any renovation project. Make sure you have the money, the time and the ability to finish it. If you don't have the money, wait until you do. If you don't have the time, ask a friend to help. If you don't have the ability, hire a professional who is familiar with working on manufactured homes. This is your home we're talking about. You want a job that is done right.

Manufactured homes are wonderfully affordable housing that will you will enjoy for years, if you take the time and effort to keep them up.

Greg Hansward regularly edits news on areas dealing with kitchen center islands. You can have a look at his comments on pictures of kitchen islands and kitchen island designs at http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com

Adding Thousands of Dollars to The Value of Your Home Without Spending a Lot of Money

The secret to saving thousands of dollars on kitchen cabinets is slowly getting out to the general public. Retail prices have doubled in the past few years because of their high overhead expenses: gas prices, rent increases and also the cost of labor. While cabinets have been available on-line for years, the Internet kitchen cabinet business is exploding. More and more people are finding out that they do not have to pay high retail prices for kitchen cabinets.

It makes sense. If you can buy something online, you are probably going to save money. Simple economics puts a retail store at a disadvantage. The store has a large amount of overhead and shipping costs that also need to be hidden in the retail prices. At the same time, an internet store has little overhead and is often linked to a direct importer. However, always remember to shop around online. Many places offer good prices, but with a little searching and a few good key words, you can turn up even better deals.

I mentioned key words and this means that there are certain buzzwords in the kitchen cabinet business that you should know. The most important phrase is RTA kitchen cabinets. This simply means ready to assemble. Most kitchen cabinets are not assembled; however a retail store will assemble them for you and charge you plenty. All you need to know is that RTA kitchen cabinets can easily be assembled. No drills or hammers, just a flat head screwdriver and some patience. Don't just look for cabinets, dig a little deeper and use a good phrase like RTA kitchen cabinets. It will save you thousands of dollars on a large kitchen order.

You may also find that the good RTA kitchen cabinet sites will offer a good selection of bathroom vanities, including Euro vanities and other new designer styles. Again, these type of cabinets and vanities are being sold in retail stores for as high as 200% more than what you can find online. Yes this sounds absurd, but a quick check of a big box retailer and then going to an RTA kitchen cabinet website and you will see that the savings are huge. Also keep in mind that a good amount of the retail kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities are made of particleboard. On the other hand, a good RTA site will use only real wood and plywood.

When you're online remember that there is no such thing as free shipping. Repeat this with me, "there is no free shipping". What some Internet sites do is increase cabinet prices, and try to lure you in with free shipping. RTA kitchen cabinets can be expensive to ship, but not as expensive as fully assembled cabinets. Yes it will cost some money, but if you add that in with your saving on the kitchen cabinets, you will still find that you are way ahead in savings.

So don't waste your time at Home Depot or the other big box building supply stores. They are not saving you money. Go online and don't stop at the first kitchen cabinets site you find, dig around and you will find some good buys. And remember, use the phrase RTA kitchen cabinets and you will be pleasantly surprised at the savings that are out there.

I have been able to save thousands of dollars on discount kitchen cabinets by buying RTA cabinets. If you are interested in finding out my secrets, go to my Kitchen Cabinets article at Hubpages.

Designing Your Bathroom

While redecorating your bathroom the way you want, you can work with lots of different ideas. Before you start the designing process, it is of paramount importance that you take into account the style of your own bathroom and be creative with your thinking. A few important styles include traditional, modern, country, southwestern and Victorian styled bathrooms.

You may explore the internet, interior decoration books and magazines and relevant home shows on the television to get ideas for the design and dcor of your own bathroom.

Below, you will find some natural bathroom design ideas that can enhance the overall look of your bathroom.

Natural Lighting

It has been noticed that soft and natural lighting in a bathroom are relaxing in nature. For this reason, there is hardly a surprise that majority of people prefer to install skylights in their bathrooms, that guarantees natural light in their bathroom.

If, for any reason, you are unable to install skylights in the bathroom, you always have a choice of a window to let the sunshine in. But this will only happen when your window is big enough to let the light and air inside the bathroom. You may also go for halogen lights. The best thing about halogen lights is that they give you more natural feel as compared to bulbs and fluorescent lights.

Natural Flooring

Your bathroom floor can also give you a natural feel, provided you are willing to put in some hard work. First and foremost, you have to get rid of vinyl and carpeting. Laminate wood or ceramic tile flooring is a much better option as compared to vinyl and carpeting if you want a natural feel in your bathroom. Secondly, the color of your flooring should be lighter especially if you have dark walls. On the other hand, if you have light walls, it is recommended that your flooring color is dark. If you have no issues in budget, you may opt go for natural stones a887s your flooring. Travertine and marble look absolutely fantastic in a bathroom.

Natural Walls

There are some people who ignore the significance of bathroom walls while designing their bathroom. This is not wise because bathroom walls can set the whole mood of your bathroom on its own. For example, selecting natural wallpaper for your bathroom not only gives a natural feel to your bathroom dcor but can also change the whole outlook of your bathroom. There are plenty of wallpapers available in the market that resists all of weather conditions.

To design your bathroom aesthetically you not only need expensive and beautiful furnishings, but good selection of materials and resources too. Only natural and balanced furniture that is complemented by proper setting can help you in aesthetically designing your bathroom.

http://www.4BathroomFurniture.com is a complete guide to buying bathroom furniture and decorating it. The site provides reliable information on Contemporary Bathroom Storage Furniture, Bathroom Vanity Furniture, Wicker Bathroom Furniture and more to buy the best product.

Finishing Basement Ceilings

There are many ways to finish basement ceilings and you have to chose which type that suits you best. You can chose from traditional drywall, tongue and grove board, acoustic ceilings and drop ceilings. You can think about each option and find the best one that works for you.

If you decide on drywall, you have to be prepared to relocate pipes and ducts in between the joist. If all of it cant be hidden in the joist cavities, then you will have to box in what is showing. You will also have to add furring strips to put extra support where you need it. This is necessary to give strength to the boxes and provide a solid backing for the finished ceiling treatment. You will find that drywall is a good choice due to the fact that it is inexpensive but there is a lot of work involved before you get a finished product such as plastering and sanding.

If you prefer acoustic ceiling, the tiles are wonderful to work with due to their small size. You can install them by stapling them to the furring stripes but you do have to have all pipes and ducts hidden to get a smooth surface for your ceiling. You will find the same with using tongue and grove board, but once again you have to have a smooth surface and all pipes and ducts must be hidden. The cost of using this material is a bit higher, especially if you have to get someone to move pipes and ducts that cant be hidden easily.

A drop ceiling works really well on a basement ceiling if you have the height in the room. It is the easiest solution for your ceiling. This involves framing everything out, but it certainly will take care of the pipes that are hanging and cover them well with a smooth finish when youre done.

For lots of information on basement repairs and related topics, visit DIY and Remodeling at http://www.diyandremodeling.com

Important Issues When Purchasing A Ladder

You might have realized that for doing certain handy works at home like hanging a picture on the wall, changing a broken glass pane, painting the wall, fixing a light shade and a lot of activities as such you need a ladder. It is obvious that you want a stable, secure, reliable, cost effective user-friendly multipurpose ladder. A wise man will always spend in a ladder that will satisfy any challenge he takes on. If you are looking for the best one, the little giant ladder is the only answer. No other ladder in this planet can be so useful as the little giant ladder.

Are you aware which little giant ladder will suit you the most? Little giant ladder is a multipurpose ladder, a combination of 24 ladders in one. It has different models with the varying needs of the users. One thing you must decide that which type of work 9A5you will perform. Is it normal housework, professionals work or the industrial work? Hare are few things that may be helpful for you while purchasing a ladder.

Safety and stability: Select a little giant ladder system with the flared footings to enable you remain safe and stable when you climb high on the topmost rung of the ladder.

Built: Select the little giant ladders that are most durable with a longer life span and offer the best value for your hard earned money.

Versatility: Out of different models, chose your little giant ladder that should serve flexible tasks that you need to do.

Weight: You have to think that a professional grade aluminum ladder weighs between 25-45 pounds whereas a fiberglass model will weigh between 3550 pounds. Any ladder lighter than this range wont be as durable or trustworthy.

Value: Go for a ladder that will prove valuable to you. Little giant ladders have many models. Get your little giant ladder in accordance to the height that you want to reach for and fits your needs.

Little giant ladder will not only save your money, one little giant ladder will save you so much space in your office or home. It is a wonderful product and you any one will feel proud to possess it.

We have made the most comprehensive research on ladders. Find it only on the Multipurpose ladders source. All about little giant ladders and other ladders on http://www.leandernet.com/Ladders/Little_giant_ladder.php

Giving Your Siding a Facelift

If you are looking to add some value and glamour to your home there is nothing quite like redoing the paint or siding. Now the question is presented, which type of exterior should you choose for your home? The largest deciding factor in this choice is likely going to be what type of exterior is already on the home. If you have vinyl siding, or stucco, or simply painted wood it will usually be more cost effective to stick with what you already have. However here are a few more things to consider when this choice presents itself.

There are four basic types of siding on the mark9B6et today. Vinyl siding, stucco, aluminum siding and wood. Stucco is a great exterior to deal with and is very easy to keep in pristine condition. A good power washing can bring life back to the most distraught looking stucco quite easily. What to look for to decide if your stucco needs to be redone is crumbling around the bases and edges. Stucco is also easy to paint. When dealing with vinyl siding it is not a good idea to paint this surface as vinyl can bend easily and cause the paint to crack and peel.

Usually in this situation vinyl siding will need to be replaced if it cannot be cleaned. Aluminum and steel siding is another long-lasting surface that is easy to paint and easy to maintain. Usually a fresh coat of paint will bring this metal surface back to life. Finally we come to wood siding. Paining or staining is an absolute necessity for wood as it needs to be protected from the elements, if not it will rot and decay quickly. Is the wood soft and splintered? Can you see the grain on the back side of peeling areas? If so, then replacement might be necessary. The same is true if your siding appears to be warped or buckled.

The exterior of your home is the first thing that people see so it is quite important to have it in the best condition possible. No mater what type of exterior your home has, a little time & effort can make it shine like new! Don't be afraid to put a few dollars into it either, during the sales process it will come back in abundance.

HomesByLender.com is the elite source for FSBO financing and homes for sale by owners. Utilize our nationwide search to locate FSBO homes in any state or town. HomesByLender.com is your one-stop FSBO information source.

Refinish Your Hardwood Floor Like a Pro

This article is written by a pro of refinishing hardwood floors since I have done too many to count. Maybe 300 would be a good guess. My father was in the business full time (as well as aluminum windows and doors (which I'll write another article about that soon) and while I attended college, and for a short time after, I worked with him as well as on my own refinishing hardwood floors.

In fact, I just did my mother-in-law's last summer and my back still hurts!

Before you even think of stBD6arting this DIY project, you need to be fairly good shape. There is a lot of bending, kneeling and scraping...if you do it right.

Ok, you still are here reading so I guess you are serious :o)

Here are the easy? steps to a beautiful, shiny hardwood floor:

Determine what kind of finish you would like first. There are a couple choices, flat, medium gloss and high gloss. It's strictly taste as they both wear the same. I prefer a polyurethane paint but some like varnishes. I found urethane to be a durable finish and won't yellow over time. Look for 'non-yellowing' on the can. They come in either oil or water based, and I prefer water base for the ease of clean up.

Go to your local hardware store that carries floor sanders, edger sander, pain scrapers, sandpaper (medium) and the floor paint.

Prepare your floor by filling in any blemishes, depressions, cracks and nail holes.

Sweep and then vacuum floor. (at this point I would hang a plastic sheet over any door openings if the door has been removed (new construction etc).

Sand main floor being careful to keep sander going in same direction. Start with a coarse sandpaper and switch to finer for second sanding. The first sanding is to get to bare wood and the second for a finished look.

Sand the edges. The trick here is to use a fairly light touch and rotate the sander in semi-circle reducing sand marks.

Now the fun part. Take your scraper in scrape the corners and under heaters. Don't worry about under heaters too much as it won't be that noticeable.

Whew! The hard part is done. Now the fun part. Sweep and vacuum floor and if you see a swirl or sanding marks scrape the out.

Put the sealer down. Wait at least 2 hours, hand sand the whole floor, vacuum and apply the urethane. If you don't have air conditioning, put a fan on the floor to dry it quicker.

I usually waited at least 4-5 hours for it dry, most of the time overnight. I recommend at least 2 coats of urethane for a durable, hard finish.

You're done! Wow not so bad was it?

Oh yeah,

Email me for a chiropractor lol

Dan Farrell is the owner of http://www.closet-organizer-plan.com where you can get a free closet organizer plan and other home improvement ideas and articles.

How To Choose A Clawfoot Bath Tub

The clawfoot bath tub has come a long way starting 4,000 years ago in the island of Crete. Now it has made a big comeback and is now being sold widely in the market today.

The typical clawfoot bath tub is made of cast iron with porcelain painted over for that glossy touch. Today, though, a variety of designs have been created and there are now clawfoot bath tubs that are made of acrylic and fiberglass for lighter weight and easier installation. During the earlier years of the clawfoot bath tub's comeback, the clawfoot bath tub used to be popular only among collectors. Now it is made so much more affordable for all home owners who wish to have a beautiful antique-style bath tub.

Clawfoot bath tubs come in different styles and designs. There are those with the classic roll rim, where the rims of the tub elegantly slope outwards. Similarly, slipper tubs have that slightly raised end that delicately curves backwards where you are able to rest your back comfortably. Double slipper tubs are those that have two ends that are raised and curved. A tub that is double ended has two sides that are rounded instead of flat. Whether you are looking for that feminine touch, clean modern lines, vintage feel or playful design, the clawfoot bath tub offers you many styles to choose from.

Another thing to consider is the feet. Clawfoot bath tubs usually have iron feet with the shape of a lion's claws. Antique clawfoot bath tubs often have cast iron feet that is coated with porcelain enamel. Some are gilt and bear a resemblance of other animal feet. Clawfoot bath tub feet now come in different colors such as iridescent and two-tone.

Now, let's get more into the technical aspect of buying a new clawfoot bath tub. An important feature to consider is the placement of faucet holes. Wall holes are made so that your faucet and shower is situated from inside the tub. On the other hand, you can have faucet holes on top of the rim if you want more space and water in the bath tub. Another alternative is the absence of faucet holes, where water lines are attached to the bathroom wall instead.

Next step is to select your water supply line, once you've decided on the placement of the faucet holes. Water supply lines come in many designs, too. They can either be silver or have that gold tint. Here are the types of water supply lines you might want to inquire about from your supplier:

- Single offset supply lines. - Double offset supply lines - Pressure balance supply system - Deck mount supply lines - Freestanding water supply - Tub deck mount water supply - Tube wall mount water supply

Choosing a clawfoot bath tub that best suits your taste is all in the matter of getting to know basic styles and designs. You can begin your search with local suppliers or online.

Get the latest additions to clawfoot bath tub. Get more luxury bath guide info for the cheapest deals online!

Remodeling Projects

So, you're thinking of remodeling or adding onto your home. That could be one of the wisest things you could do in today's housing market. But you may be asking yourself what projects are the most cost effective. The answer can be more complicated than you might think.

Some things to consider:

What is the purpose of the impr16AFovements you are contemplating?
How long do you plan to live in the home after the improvements are made?
What will give you the biggest return on your investment?

Let's look at the first two:

The Purpose of the Improvements and Time-frame for Living in the Home. Is your purpose to make the home easier to sell, or have you simply outgrown the space and need more room? Perhaps it is just time to get rid of the Brady Bunch carpet and other groovy designs of the 70's.

If you just want to sell the home and get top dollar for it, some improvements are a great investment; especially in today's housing market. Anything you can do to make your home stand out is a good thing. In some cases it may not bring any extra money to the offer, however, it will shorten the time on the market. Pay close attention to paint condition and color-both inside and out. Bring them into a more neutral color scheme that won't turn off a potential buyer. Clean up the yard and paint the trim of the exterior doors to give a good first impression. These are inexpensive and easy tasks that add curb appeal and make you feel better about living there. Is the carpet worn or out dated? If so replace it.

These improvements are also the first place to start if you just need to bring the home up-to-date so that your friends and neighbors don't have a flash back when they come over for the big game or the kid's birthday party.

If you need some extra room because you have out grown your current home, the best place to start, from an out-of-pocket expense perspective, is in the basement. If you have an unfinished basement you can finish it off with a very reasonable investment. However, if you have plans of selling soon, do not expect to get top dollar for your investment. Homeowners love to finish basements to add resale value to their homes. The sad truth of the matter is that the average return on investment for finishing your basement is about 70%. So if you need the space for an extra bedroom or your family room-- go for it, but don't do it thinking you are going to get a huge return if you sell the home shortly after.

If you are looking to get a return out of your improvements you need to consider which improvement will give you the greatest return. There is no cut and dried answer on this, however, there are some guidelines you need to understand.

I love watching TV shows where investors come in and buy a fixer upper and start throwing numbers around like every improvement made to a home will be worth twice the amount they put into the home. Not true! For example, your home may need new siding to keep it from looking like one of those wrecks that investors want to buy to fix up. You should replace the siding to keep from losing value, but you will only get about 80% return on the investment. You also need to consider how much someone would negotiate you down if you did not replace it. You will most often lose more on the sale price by not replacing or fixing items like siding, carpet and paint.

Now back to what improvements get you the best return for your money. The number one place to start is in the kitchen. As a real estate agent, I saw it time and time again. If a kitchen was modern and up-to-date the asking price was much higher than if it was worn out and dated. On average, statistics show that you will get about 90% of your money back on a kitchen remodel. However, there are things that you can do to either increase that return or to decrease it. For example, if you are using tile, you can find tile from a dollar a square foot up to nine dollars a square foot, or even more. Which one you want to use is based upon the home, neighborhood and amount of time you plan to live in the home. Another way to dramatically update a kitchen is by installing custom cabinets, (an investment that has no limits on what you can spend), or you can go with a good quality modular system that can look custom.

The second best place to add value to a home is in the bathrooms. Updating the bathrooms gives great return on investment. Updating the bathroom gives you a return just short of a kitchen remodel. Again, you can go out of control with fixtures, tile and upgrades, or you can be modest in your choices and still transform an outdated bathroom into a room to be proud of.

Always consider the price, size and neighborhood in picking materials. You don't want a million dollar kitchen in a $200,000 home.

The area I have not covered and I will save for my next article is additions. Additions can also be a great return on your investment; however, there are some pit falls you need to avoid.

Mark Weisenburger has been a real estate agent were he sold new construction as well as existing homes. He has also been a mortgage officer. Mark is currently in construction sales helping families' dreams come true by helping them with remodels, additions and/or building their dream home. For more information you can visit his website http://hirethemonsters.com

Great Ways to Remodel Your Kitchen

No matter whereabouts you live everybody's kitchen and bathroom provides the same basic functions. In fact all bathrooms have to have things in common they all have to have a bath, a skink, and a toilet. The pe5B4rsonal touches make all of the differences in your unique and personal place. The bathroom and Kitchen are the best used rooms in the whole house. If you've brought a hole in Cincinnati then it may take a long time to remodel your kitchen due to the age of most of the houses there.

Cincinnati is mainly located along the front of a river, there are many different ideas that you could work into your kitchen which would be unsuitable for many other areas. Of course you don't need to bring the sights of the city into your house you can do something else with your personal space. You could turn your kitchen into a lovely beach scene.

The city has extensive history trading by river, and is also very close to Kentucky. This makes many different themes suitable for use in a kitchen here. All contractors in Cincinnati are experienced with a number of these different remodeling ideas; they may well be able to offer advice.

Make your Kitchen look better

One of the most difficult things involved when remodeling a kitchen is dealing with old houses. Cincinnati has a number of older properties. It can be difficult to tastefully update the kitchen's look without destroying the character of the old property. The kitchen in these homes will be perfectly functional they just need updating for aesthetic purposes. If you have experience and imagination then you may be able to make your Cincinnati bathroom wonderful.

Just as in5AF any other area of the country, by remodeling your kitchen you can add value to your whole home. When someone is buying a home the three rooms that they will scrutinize the most are the kitchen, bathroom and they will also inspect the heating equipment. The better these areas look the more desirable your house will be. With the vast number of houses available on the market today you need to make yours stand out amongst the crowd.

No matter how big your kitchen is most kitchens will require additional storage space. Most kitchens would also benefit from some extra seating areas. You could install a bench along the side of one wall which allows some extra seating and storage space.

The author Clinton Maxwell is really interested in news about home decor. Sharing his passion in works, the reviewer demonstrated his know-how on issues associated with kitchen corner cabinet solutions.

Put Some Beauty To Your Open Spaces With Awning

Awnings could be a good addition to any terrace, balcony, patio, doorways, decks, windows, poolside, driveway, Jacuzzi and other open spaces that should require decreasing warm weather temperatures and protection. Aside from providing additional shelter from the elements, it can enhance the exterior beauty of your home. Awnings are also good energy savers.

Depending on the direction that your house faces, an awning can save you considerable cuts on air-conditioning costs. There are different kinds of awnings that can be used for residential and commercial purposes.

The Retractable Awning

The retractable type is the most versatile of all awnings. It can provide direct protection from the sun and can be tilted up to 45 degrees. It is a good option if you need an awning that can be adjusted from time to time according to the requirements of shading that you will need. Retractable awnings come in different shade, color, design and retain the brightness of the space where it is placed. Retractable awnings are easily installed and can be removed just as easily. Provided the awning is not supplied with an electric motor, which is one of its options, you would not need help from a licensed electrician.

This awning has retractable arms that are spring loaded providing the tension to the fabric when it is rolling down its tube. Using this awning is like creating and additional space to your structure without the need for contractors. It is also the least expensive as it does not require construction.

When sufficient slopes are made, retractable awnings can keep your terraces, balconies, patios etc. clean and protected from rain. It however should be guarded during inclement weather, never during snow and must be rolled up when there is hail.

With retractable awnings, light and shade can be controlled. It can provide protection to your furnitures, carpets and fixtures from fading.

Most retractable awnings have options for an electric motor. These are recommended for outdoor plug ins and will need indoor switches. When you choose to install a retractable awning with motor, have a licensed electrician install it for you.

Stationary Awnings are good protection for the structure and can save you money for utility costs.

Canvas Awnings can provide additional protection to your deck window, patio and balcony aside from beautifying them. The shade it provide can help you enjoy more outdoor activities while protecting your drapes, carpets and furnitures from premature fading.

Canvas awnings come in different shade colors, patterns and designs, Styles could either be the double bar standard, dome shaped, open sides, the traditional closed sides, waterfall, quarter barrel and semi-circular. Canvass awnings are durable. It can last up to ten years and replacements are not expensive. There are also a wide variety of frames that you can choose from. Selection of frames can be aluminum or steel, anodized and powder-coated.

Metal Awnings or Aluminum awnings have three main categories the louvered awnings, the stationary awnings and the door hoods/canopies. These types of awnings are designed for durability. However like all awnings, the Aluminum awnings can bend when heavy load is placed on it like the accumulation of snow or hail.

Awnings support and paneling are constructed from tough double-gauged aluminum panels that are designed for all-weather durability. Its sides provide extra ventilation allowing hot air not to accumulate on the shaded areas. Metal awnings are available in designs that will fit and add beauty to window doors and pathways.

Robert Thatcher is a freelance publisher based in Cupertino, California. He publishes articles and reports in various ezines and provides awning resources on http://www.your-awning.info

The Challenges of Remodeling a Small Bathroom

We would all like to have a spacious bathroom, but that is not always possible, so what are the options?

1. Extend into other existing space such as a closet or utilize space from another room that we feel we can sacrifice.

2. Rearrange the space that we have to make it more functional and feel more spacious.

3. Stick with what we have, and rethink how we use the existing space.

In my case, I utilized the first two of these options. I bought a vintage house with two bathrooms, both small, because I thought it had "possibilities". One bath was tiny, and served only as a powder room. The other was small and narrow, and became one of my worst nightmares.

The solution was to both expand and rearrange. Fortunately I had some space behind this bath that was an extension of the kitchen that did little more than serve as an unsightly catchall.

This bath was not only small, but narrow. The vanity and shower were placed opposite of one another on the longer walls, leaving just enough space to walk between them. My solution after bumping out the wall at the end of the kitchen was to move the shower to the short wall at the end, so that when the vanity was in use there was more than just a narrow walk through. This small addition and different arrangement made all the difference.

Sometimes, moving fixtures even in the same space can bring a much more workable arrangement, just as moving furniture in your living room can make a more pleasing and functional situation. If you have a small bathroom space, and no hope of enlarging it, draw out a floor plan, and try different arrangements to see if you can gain a more functional and pleasing situation by rearranging the fixtures.

If this doesn't work there is plan #3 which is rework what you have.

1. Use light colors and tone on tone to make your bath seem more spacious.

2. Determine what are must haves in your bathroom on a daily basis. Store items that are less frequently used in other space such as a linen closet. Use containers and arrange these items so they can be neatly stored and easily accessed when they are needed.

3. A tub/shower combination can do double duty when space is at a premium.

4. Install sliding glass doors instead of using a shower curtain. This will spread more light and give a more spacious feel. Showers with hinged doors take too much space in a small bath. If you just have to have some added warmth, use a valance above the top of the door. This will be high and draw the eyes up rather than have them dwell on the lack of floor space.

5. Use only a valance over any windows, or something simple like a bamboo shade that requires less visual space.

6. Light colored cabinetry will help just as other light surfaces. Cabinetry, walls, and floors in lighter tones will add visual space.

7. Try to avoid open storage. Shelves and cabinetry that are covered present a more unified space and will help the eye to glide over the room.

8. Avoid small displays of decorative items. A small bath is not the place for that prized collection of fancy little perfume bottles. If you have open shelving, store larger like items on them. For example: Stack rolled same color towels on an open shelf. The eyes will just travel across them and see them as one thing.

9. Use towel rings for hanging towels rather than large towel bars.

10. Expose as few items as possible on your countertop, to give a less cluttered feel in a small bath. Some medicine cabinets are deep enough to house curling irons, blow dryers etc.

And last but not least. Don't hang towels o4A4r robes on the back of the bathroom door. Bulky items that protrude can eat up a lot of visual space.

Here you'll find many more good bathroom remodeling ideas as well as a bathroom remodeling checklist.

Seven Tips for a Well-Organized Bathroom

It's hard for a bathroom to be a relaxing haven if it's always a mess. And the average bathroom gets cluttered quickly. When you keep all your medications, makeup, grooming materials, shower materials, towels and toilet paper, and first aid items in one small room, you've got to be extra-vigilant to keep things neat and organized.

Keeping your bathroom organized may take a little extra work, but the effort is worth it. Here are a few tips for staying on top of the clutter in your bathroom.

Throw out what you don't use. Before starting to organize your bathroom, go through everything you keep there. Be prepared to throw a lot of things away. Any makeup, soap, shampoo, or medicine that's over a ye5B4ar old should go in the bin. Same with chronically mildewed toys, ripped or threadbare towels, rusty nail clippers, and anything else that isn't necessary and you don't use on a regular basis. Throw out what you don't need first, and you'll have less to organize later.

Have a towel rack for each person. If lots of people use a bathroom in the rush to get out the door in the morning, towels and washcloths can accumulate quickly-especially if there are kids involved. Make it easy for people to hang up towels: install a rack for each person who uses the bathroom. If you have kids, install hooks instead of racks; they're more likely to use them.

Use drawer dividers. Sick of opening your makeup drawer to a jumble of lipsticks, eyeshadows, and other cosmetics? It can be a hassle to rifle through your drawers every morning looking for your favorite shade of lip gloss. Organize your makeup drawer with dividers or even a cutlery organizer from the kitchen. These work great for any drawer full of small grooming implements.

Buy a shower caddy. Showers don't often have a lot of space for shampoos and soaps-but leaving your shampoo along the edge of the tub can make your bathroom look cluttered and messy. Hang a shower caddy from your showerhead with enough room to store everyone's shampoos, bath gels and soaps. This will allow everyone in your household to keep their favorite bath products on hand, without cluttering u5B4p your tub or shower.

Maximize your shelf space. Most people need every inch of storage space they can get in the bathroom-it's a small room with a lot of items to store. If you have a small bathroom or one without a lot of built-in storage space, you'll need to get creative. Install shelves in unused walls. Buy a cabinet designed to go over the toilet, or buy corner shelves that can be installed in the corner by the bathroom vanity. This will allow you extra space to keep linens, makeup, jewelry, and other necessities.

Use small containers or baskets. One of the most aggravating things about the bathroom is the amount of shampoos, soaps, hair gels, and shower gels you need to find a home for. You also have first aid materials such as band-aids and antibiotic ointment, which you need to be able to access quickly. In order to keep your bathroom necessities organized, buy containers or baskets and label them for each type of item. Keep first-aid items in one container, hair products in another, nail-care items in a third, and so on. Make sure to label each container clearly.

Color coordinate. If you have a large family sharing a bathroom, you may experience some conflict with sharing this small place. Teens and tweens can be territorial, especially about grooming products. Help them keep their things separate by giving each kid a color-coded container for makeup, hair gel, and other important products. In a5AFddition, color-code toothbrushes, towels, washcloths, and even shampoos. This way, you can monitor who makes the biggest messes without blaming all the kids for a cluttered bathroom. This may mean less conflict over messes in the long run.

It's easy for a bathroom to get messy, but it doesn't have to be difficult to keep things organized. Spend a few hours setting up a system, buy some organization products such as drawer dividers and containers, and throw out items you don't use-and you should be able to keep your bathroom clean and clutter-free.

R Dobson is managing director of Wilson Dobson Bathrooms http://www.wdbathrooms.co.uk based in Sheffield UK. For a wide range of shower products, demo videos and special offers visit http://www.wdbathrooms.co.uk/acatalog/New_Special_Offers.html

Average Sunroom Prices

According to NARI. (The National Association of the Remodeling Industry). sunrooms can repay more than 70% of their investment cost. Not bad when you consider that sunroom prices can range anywhere from from $12.000 - $70.000 (including the cost of materials and labor).

Averaging the Cost of a Sunroom

Broken down. it is estimated that the average sunroom runs at about $10.400 in materials. with $1500 in materials to construct a deck or foundation and $270 to construct the stairs. Add in the flooring and roofing systems and youre looking at a price tag of somewhere in the neighborhood of $13.500- $14.000 dollars.

The second most important factor- thats almost as important as the first- is the cost of labor. Just the labor charge itself for preparing the sunroom will be around $10.000. Then there will be approximately $1650 in labor for the deck and $200- $250 for the stairs. Once. again factoring in labor costs for flooring and roofing. the number lands in the area of $12.000.

Putting the two numbers for materials and labor together puts the total cost at a conservative $25.000. This number will of course travel up and down the scale depending on the materials used. Obviously. the better the materials used in building your sunroom. the higher the price will be when all is said and done. Trying to save money by using less expensive materials. however. does not always make good sense. As they say: You get what you pay for.

Features that Add Value to Your Sunroom

Your sunroom can be constructed of aluminum materials with energy efficient exterior and interior and thermally broken panels or for a more classic touch. you can construct it of wooden panels and beams.

There are a number of additions that will give your sunroom the look and feel that match your homes interior and exterior. Vinyl clad sunrooms will convey a Georgian or Victorian type conservatory look. Options such as sliding glass doors and windows with double locks and childproof handles provide a measure of safety to your sunroom.

Investing In Your Sunroom

Style will also determine the cost of your sunroom. Various roof designs such as cathedral. solarium. conservatory or California all have different price ranges due to the amount of materials involved in their construction471. Each style also has a number of optional upgrades in its window systems that can be of benefit or just a way to make your space just that much more unique.

Andrew Caxton is a reliable journalist who has published more articles on this issue for http://www.allsunrooms.com If you would like more information on this topic please checkout his website at sunroom prices

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.

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.

Accessorize Your Bathroom For an Inviting Experience

For most people the critical aspect of a bathroom is really just does it have a toilet? While we agree this is important, theres more to it when youre talking about that private sanctuary in your home. Women are typically more interested in the look and feel of a bathroom than are men. This is proven in my household where my husbands bathroom can be buried in dirty clothes and dust and he doesnt care as long as theres a good stack of magazines. My bathroom, of course, must be more inviting, less scary.

Accessories can add that perfect inviting touch to any room in your home, including the bathroom. I love walking into bathrooms that have a warm glow, gentle lighting, and they must smell great. This is often difficult to overcome by its very nature, but there are so many good smelling accessories on the market today. Candles, scented oils, room sprays, various soaps; the list really is endless.

More physical accessories are also important. Tower racks, towel warmers, pretty baskets to hold your big fluffy colorful towels, magazine racks with an interesting variety of reading material (critical for those long visits), and of course PLENTY of toilet paper within easy reach.

How about eye appeal? Your bathroom needs to look clean and fresh. Sweep the floor, have a shower curtain or door that is free from stains and mildew, clean the tile grout and cracks. Is your ceiling falling in? Patch it up. Is the floor warping from water damage? Repair it. Are the walls boring and blah? Dress it up with family photos, wall art, cute bathroom decorations (found at any Hobby Lobby or decorator store), even think about repainting or re-wallpapering to give it a fresh look.

For your own personal needs the absolute basics are really all you require, but think of your guests entering the bathroom. This is the scariest thought for me. What will they find? Hair? Dirtiness? Will they think Im a slob? Prepare an inviting space for them and youll naturally benefit.

Kristen Easton is a versatile writer on a variety of consumer topics including the bathroom vanity and hot tubs.

Wood Shutters for Your Home

Here in Edmonton, Alberta, as the days get shorter and the sun sinks lower in the sky, sunlight streaming through the windows can become an annoying distraction. wood shutters could be your answer. Not to mention the neighbors who have more evening hours to look into your brightly lit living room. Once again, wood shutters could be your answer. You could put up shades to foil prying eyes, but a pair of swinging shutters would definitely be more interesting.

Wood shutters are a great way to add architectural and historical detail. Shutters help windows do their job better, keeping out the elements, whether it's winter's chilly winds or summer's oppressive heat. And easy to install on any window because they attach to a thin frame that either sits inside the window opening or around the outside of the casing. As long as the frame is positioned correctly, the wood shutters will swing freely - and close out the day's distractions with a satisfying click. Are these your answer?

Wood shutters can be an expensive alternative to your design theme. There didn't used to be as many choices there are today. Some were either made of wood, metal or stone. Materials had to be harvested or mined and then fashioned into whatever shape needed to construct the finished product your wood shutters. Today it is much different. New, synthetic and composite materials are cropping up everywhere and are proving to be not only a viable alternative to natural materials, but one that makes life a bit easier when choosing your wood shutters.

The shutters are constructed by stapling the slats with tiny staples to the frame of the wood. This can cause a problem over time with the staples working their way out of the wood shutters. Then the slats to the wood shutters start to fall out. The slats on faux wood shutters are able to be attached with strong adhesives that don't become detached with time.

With faux shutters, there is no change in size or shape just because of the weather. Faux wood shutters can also maintain a bright finished look without frequent painting. Your shutters can be washed with mild detergents and look as new as the day they were installed. Many are treated with dust repellents too. This causes dust in the air to flutter on by instead of sticking to the wood's surface. This makes housekeeping chores much lighter. Wood shutters can require very frequent dusting to keep them clean.

The best thing about faux wood shutters is that they can be used inside and outside the window. These resist fading in the sunlight too. Also can be used alone in interior decorating, or in place of a shade or sheers as a backdrop to draperies or valances.

Exterior

What is the best wood to use for exterior shutters? The best wood for exterior use is cedar because of its outstanding durability and resistance to decay. Cedar gives long service with little maintenance in applications such as mud sills, window sashes, sheathing under stucco or brick veneer construction, wood shutters, greenhouse benches, fencing, poles, trellises, and exterior shutters. Cedar is also used extensively for exterior siding because it is dimensionally stable and holds paint well, in addition to being a deterrent to bugs.

Installing exterior wood shutters is a relatively quick way to add style and color to the outside of a house. Historical and modern houses alike benefit from the timeless style of wood shutters. As with any home improvements, the quality and longevity of an addition should be evaluated before proceeding. Exterior shutters are available in many shapes and materials as are interior shutters.

Kelly Kramer owns a plumbing company and buy and sells real estate, if you liked this article you can learn more at http://www.edmontons-business-directory.com/Window_Coverings.html

Rustic Bathroom Vanities

Bathroom fixtures designs have come a long way. From the elaborate Victorian to a much simple yet sophisticated contemporary look. Easy to say, over the years, we have seen bathroom fixtures design evolved by leaps and bounds. But in spite all the changes, there is one type of bathroom vanity design that remained popular and has withstood through time: the rustic bathroom vanity.

Commonly used as bathroom fixtures for log cabins and county homes, rustic vanities offer unique elegance and tranquil charm to the whole bathroom area. They come in different styles and design, which can be used to any type of bathroom design, be it antique or contemporary.

Choosing the right rustic vanity for your home is essential as it serves as the focal point of your bathroom. Select one according to the type of wood that is compatible to the bathroom theme, the design and decoration of the piece, size, the countertop and sink, finish, and price.

There are certain types of wood that can truly capture the rustic look of bathroom vanities. Such are mahogany, cherry, and oak. When coated properly with wood sealant, these types of wood can last for a very long time.

Finish is as important as the type of wood used for the rustic vanity. This is because it protects the wood from water damages and gives it the rustic appeal. Some vanities are hand painted with intricate designs, some are sanded for smoother finish; and some are just applied with wood sealant to achieve its most natural finish. Choose one that fits best to your bathroom design.

Rustic vanities are made from wood but the countertops and sink are made from a variety of materials. Porcelain, ceramic, glass, metal, stainless steel, copper, and aluminum are some of the material used for vanity sinks; granite, wood, and other natural stones for the vanity countertops. Again, no matter what types of materials are used for the vanity countertop and sink, your choice should fit best to your bathroom design.

Admit it, a rustic vanity will make your log cabin or country home bathroom look stunningly warn and inviting. A fusion of old and new that vanity offers adds to the comforts of your home.

For tips on choosing bathroom vanities, visit http://www.bathroomvanities101.com.

Preliminary Notices and Mechanics Liens - A Contractors' Right Can Be A Homeowners' Plight

Every homeowner who embarks on a home remodeling or building project looks forward to their dream home beginning to take shape. They anticipate a flurry of activity at the beginning, first with demolition followed by the arrival of materials and subcontractors ready to work.

Shortly thereafter, certified letters requiring their signature arrive in the mail from suppliers and subcontractors. When they anxiously open the letters to read the words "Preliminary Notice" stating that someone is asserting lien rights against their property - they panic! But they shouldn't - at least not at this point. The homeowner is simply being alerted to a commonly used legal instrument in construction that ensures payment for services, labor and materials provided for a home remodeling or building project.

The purpose of a Preliminary Notice, also know as "Right To Lien", "Pre-Lien" or "20 days Notice", is to notify the owner of the property that if the party providing the Preliminary Notice is not paid, then that party will have the right to record a Mechanics Lien against the B68owners' property. The time frame within which the notices must be sent to the property owner varies from state to state. Some must be sent to the homeowner within 20 days the sub contractor begins work on the project or when a supplier delivers materials. Other States have less than 20 days and still others have up to 90 or 120 days.

As a general rule, every subcontractor and materials supplier furnishing labor, services, equipment or materials to a construction project without a direct contract with the owner of the project, must give a written Preliminary Notice to the property owner if they want to retain their lien rights. Accuracy is essential for a valid preliminary notice. Notices should be served by certified or registered mail or if delivered in person, proper documentation and signatures must accompany the preliminary notice. Finally, receiving a preliminary notice does not mean someone is going to file a Mechanics Lien against you. It simply ensures their right to lien you if the contractor doesn't pay them.

It is the responsibility of any homeowner who remodels or builds a home to educate him or her self about the construction laws in their state. Understanding lien laws and pre-lien rights and learning how to protect yourself from having a Mechanics Lien filed against your property are key to having greater control over the project and your money. Obtaining Lien Releases and Waivers after each payment to the contractor is something homeowners need to educate themselves about. Once you understand this, you'll avoid the surprise and justified anger that the money given to the contractor to pay the subs and suppliers never transpired, despite the fact that it is his/her responsibility to do so. A homeowner typically finds this out when they get slapped with a Mechanics Lien against their property for non-payment from a supplier or sub contractor.

So just what is a Mechanics Lien and what should a homeowner to do at this point?

A Mechanics Lien is a legal claim to real property until a debt has been paid. If you employ a trades person or contractor to work on your home and a dispute arises wherein you refuse to pay, the worker has a right to file a lien thus making the property responsible for payment. Mechanics' Liens must be recorded with the County recorder where the property is located. Liens must be enforced by a lawsuit to foreclose on the property within a specific time frame (varies from state to state -usually 90 up to 180 days) of the date of recording or they automatically become null, void and unenforceable. If this time has elapsed and the contractor has not filed a lawsuit within the time period allowed, then demand that he execute a release of lien in writing. If he refuses to cooperate then the homeowner can petition the courts for 5B4a decree to release the lien. This usually requires hiring an attorney, as the process can be somewhat complicated.

It's important to note that unethical contractors file the majority of liens and usually the liens become null and void based on the fact that the burden of proof lies with them. It's costly, requires legal representation, proper documentation but more importantly they have to be 100% correct to win their case. Moreover, these contractors never intend to perfect the lien but instead use it as a tactic to either scare the homeowner into paying them more money, or to get back at the homeowner who has filed a legitimate complaint against the contractor. Ethical contractors use it only as a last resort and know they have a legitimate case.

Good contractors strive to maintain excellent customer relationships by working with their clients to resolve problems, perform quality work, always pay their subs, and conduct themselves professionally with the goal of building a successful business. Finding an ethical contractor takes some work on the part of the homeowner but by doing so ensures having less problems and a more positive outcome for both parties.

Jody Costello is a Consumer Advocate and web publisher of ContractorsFromHell.com As a r596esult of a home remodeling nightmare and shock at how little oversight state regulatory agencies have over contractors, she created ContractorsFromHell.com to help others avoid the problems her family encountered. Over the last eight years she has helped homeowners deal with problems they have had with their own contractors as well as providing tips, guidelines and resources on avoiding a home remodeling nightmare. Ms. Costello has worked with the Contractors State License Board over the years to help create greater protection and a voice for consumers harmed by unethical contractors. She has testified before the State Senate supporting legislation that would benefit homeowners on construction related issues. You can learn more about hiring building/remodeling contractors, red flags to look for, read other homeowners horror stories and become better informed before you begin your project. Go to http://www.contractorsfromhell.com

What's The Best Quality Marble Tile?

Today, there are several different types of natural stone used in residential and commercial applications. Their uses generally vary and would include flooring, countertops, wall covering, fireplaces and exterior facades.

It is usually a common thing for people to refer to any polished stone finish as marble, however, there is a strong possibility that they could be looking at a different type of stone, since marble is not suitable for certain applications.The most common residential uses of marble today are for window sills, fireplaces hearths, decorative foyers and bathroom floors. Other bathroom applications also include wall covering, back splashes, tub decks and showers.

Tumbled Marble Tiles Are Popular These Days

Some tiles are manufactured and processed for a finished look, and these are known as tumbled marble. The process actually involves tumbling the tiles with sand inside a large drum. After a period of time, the corners of the tiles become rounded and the edges slightly chipped, resulting in a well-worn, antiqued appearance.

The popularity of tumbled marble these days has increased dramatically, and this is especially true regarding its use for bathroom countertops and back splashes. With such a wide variety of shapes, colors, sizes and designs, tumbled marble can be used exclusively or to accent other types of tile. The number of stylish designs and touches that can be created with its sculptured trim, decorative medallions or mosaic border patterns, is virtually limitless.

Maintenance Tips

Implementing major regular cleaning and maintenance work on your floor will help a lot in mitigating, and sometimes eliminating any major problems with your tiles.

- Avoid using polished marble in high traffic areas

- Placing non-slip mats or rugs at the entrance minimizes soiling from dirt on shoes

- Use honed marble in living and dining rooms- it is more resistant to scratches.

- Quickly wipe-off anything that spills on marble immediately

- Use coasters under glasses or bottles, to prevent unnecessary spills

- Use mats or trivets to place hot items on marble

- Implement a daily and periodic cleaning routine

- Utilize clean mops and brooms when polishing the floors

- Old vacuum cleaners will scratch your marble - avoid using them

- Change mopping water frequently during cleaning

- Always rinse the tiles using clean, warm water

Marble tiles are famous for providing a cool walking surface, especially for the sections of the house that are hot and humid, since these types of tiles are able to retain the cold temperature of its surroundings. In addition, these types of tiles do not need as much cleaning, since it for one, is resistant to any moisture, and it possesses a natural shine, which is why you do not need to wax it quite as often.

The different patterns and designs found in marble appear as detailed, vein-like virulets, that are unique and are never the same on two marble tiles. Each design or pattern differ and vary from tile to tile. Each tile can also be used as subtle shading within an interior due to its muted, earthy appeal, which is preferred by home decor experts for decorative purposes.

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Create A Perfect Bathroom Setting With Bathroom Stone Tile

Natural stone tiles offer durability yet require low maintenance. With the wide variety of stone tiles to select from, you can surely find the one that will suit your bathroom. Among the types of stones to choose from are marble, limestone, travertine, slate, granite and sandstone. With bathroom stone tile, you can put in a splash of hue, or you can just keep the tiles neutral so you can put color with embellishment, accessories and furniture.

Because of their inherent properties, stone tiles are very suitable for your bathroom renovation project. They are tough and resistant to stains and wear and they are available in an extensive range of finishes and colors. There are lots of things, however, that you need to consider in using stone tile for you bathroom.

Various Types of Natural Stone

1. Slate - This incredibly durable stone has a natural, untamed splendor and is really perfect for bathroom use. Slate requires little maintenance and is very easy to clean. In fact, you can make this stone almost totally resistant to stains. It comes in wide range of colors and its texture is rough, making it non-slippery.

2. Marble - This type of stone carries the look of refinement for many centuries now. It has a remarkable hue and its surface can be polished to bring out an unmatched shine. Because of these characteristics, marble tiles can truly help you in creating a remarkable effect in your shower room. But there are some important things that you need to know about this particular stone type before choosing this for your bathroom. First, its high polish, which makes it look so elegant, is very slippery when wet. Also, marble is delicate, making it prone to chipping. Furthermore, marble is the type of stone that's chemical based so if any chemical acids spilled on it, it will badly stain when not treated.

3. Travertine and Limestone - These stones have the same properties - they are more porous and softer than granite or slate. Their earth color makes them lovely in a bathroom setting. However, they aren't very resistant to stains and they are not as durable as slate and quartzite.

4. Quartzite - Among the available stones, quartzite is one of the most resilient and hardest. The color of this type of stone ranges from recurring sequential structures to multicolored unique patterns, depending on the kind of quartzite that's being used. This type of stone is perfect for your bathroom because of its resistance to water and stain, its durability and its non-slippery texture.

5. Sandstone - This stone is a sophisticated choice for your bathroom stone tile because of its gentle structure and earthen colors. The only downside is that sandstone is permeable and soft so it needs to be chemically treated semi regularly to avoid stains.

Other things that must be put into consideration are the color of the bathroom tiles, the finish, the pattern that you want to create and its maintenance.

For ideas on bathroom tile design, visit http://www.bathroomtile101.com.

Glass Cabinet Hardware - A Great Way To Change Up The Look Of Your Space

When you walk into your bathroom, are you happy with what you see? If the answer is no, then it is probably time for you to give the space a makeover. Now, you might be thinking that this is going to take a lot of time and energy, but it won't if you just change up a few small things, like replacing the hardware are your cabinets with eye-catching glass cabinet hardware. With those small changes, your space will be looking fabulous in no time.

Really, just changing up a small few things in that bathroom of yours can really make a difference in how it looks. Like with the glass cabinet hardware, it has a very delightful appearance thanks to the many stylish cuts that it can have and the different colors that it can come in. You can get ones that are sleek, smooth, and clear or others that feature many stylish cuts and come in lovely shades of lavender, blue, emerald green, and even pink or rose.

If you do decide to go with using glass cabinet hardware to refresh the look of your bathroom, even kitchen if you want, the main thing to keep in mind is to change up all your hardware and not just one part of it. Why? Well, things would end up looking unmatched and not all that appealing to the eye. So, make sure to change everything and that includes the knobs on your cabinets and the drawer pulls and your drawers.

To easily check out the different glass cabinet hardware options and find exactly what you want, just hit the internet and do some online shopping. It's fast because you don't even have to leave your home to do it and when you do come across something you like, it generally is at the best prices possible. Plus, it will be shipped right to your door, so, you didn't even have to waste a trip to the hardware store, talk about convenience.

Along with buying glass cabinet hardware for your bathroom, there are also many other ways to spruce up the look of your space. For instance, you could buy new decorations including pictures to put on the walls, a small console table to put in the corner, and even sculptures or flower vases to put on the countertop in your space. You could buy new accessories for the space too, like a stylish tooth brush holder and matching soap container, new hand towels, and even a new shower curtain that has a lovely patterned design.

When it comes down to it, if you don't like the look of your space and want to spruce it up, just replace and change up some of the small things throughout it. In your bathroom, purchasing new glass cabinet hardware is a great option for doing just that. So, what are you waiting for, go online and start shopping so you can enjoy the new look of your space tomorrow.

Jennifer Akre, owner of different online specialty shops featuring niche products and information for your home, sharers her insight on different items that can make your space both more functional and beautiful. Here, she provides consumers valuable advice when purchasing fabulous cabinet hardware, eye catching knobs, and awesome drawer pulls.

Sanctuary For Your Home In Turbulent Times

Extreme weather conditions resu5B4lting from typhoons and tornadoes cause loss to life and property that is directly proportional to the severity of the winds that accompany these weather events. Almost every state in the country has experienced typhoons or tornadoes. Some are more prone to such harsh wind conditions. The one thing that is important for residents of cities that lie in such weather zones is the need to ensure the safety of their family. They provide this haven of safety for those looking for a safe space to retreat to in such emergencies.

Safe Rooms Today

Safe Rooms are vaults or rooms that are designed and constructed to withstand huge pressure; usually 250 miles per hour winds. This protects the residents of the house from forceful winds and heavy wind-blown debris.

Making Safe Rooms Solid

More often than not, solid reinforced concrete is the building material of choice for them that have the ability to withstand the fury of a Rita or a Katrina. Storm damage can often result in leaks and mildew. Solid reinforced concrete offers protections against these. It also offers protection against termites and pests.

Safe Rooms and Energy Efficiency

With energy costs ever inching northward, it makes sense to build them of solid reinforced concrete that maximizes energy efficiency by virtue of its ability to reflect light and having thermal mass.

Safe Rooms and F5B4ire Safety

These are made of solid reinforced concrete are fire and heat resistant and provide greater levels of safety as it does not burn or bend.

Safe Rooms and Environmental Sustainability

Using poured concrete for Safe Rooms generates negligible amounts of waste, thus adding less waste to land fills. This is also a material that is readily available and does not have a long renewable process like wood.

Making Safe Rooms Functional and Aesthetic

Safe Rooms can be made of varying dimensions and poured concrete molds itself into any size or shape, thus providing limitless possibilities in design. Many people build them that can also function as closets, utility rooms or even bathrooms or wine cellars. Putting these to functional use helps maximize the use of space in homes and helps residents be more comfortable while taking shelter in such rooms as there is a sense of familiarity.

Securing your Safe Room

Once you decide to build a Safe Room in your home, it is important to keep in mind some critical points to ensure that yours is really a secure place to be in an emergency.

Ensure that you use a design and building material that will make them fire and water proof. The structure should be tested for impact resistance by firing 15 lb objects that are 2 inches by 4 inches at 100 miles per hour at walls while testing. Objects of s5B4imilar dimensions should be fired at 67 miles per hour to test wind resistance of ceilings and roofs.

Safe Rooms can be in residence or in the basement. In-residence ones are favored over cellars and community shelters as they are within seconds of reach and can also be put to other daily uses.

It is critically important to ensure that the structure is free of cracks, leaks and other vulnerabilities so that it provides solid protection against floods and fire. Similarly, the ground on which the foundation is laid should be examined for soil stability and not be prone to landslides and earthquakes. A best practice for doors would be to have them mounted on solid hinges that allow it to be opened inward so that the exit is not hampered by accumulated debris outside the door. Ease of access also ensures protection from wind-blown debris. Needless to say, it should be able to withstand the pressure of strong gale force winds and heavy flying debris.

In conclusion, consult reputed and qualified experts before you begin building your home or retrofitting an existing home with a Safe Room.

Bill Weber is the President of Weber Design Group, Inc., a custom architectural design and home plan resource firm that has been in business for more than two decades. His homes feature designs of award winning grace that are s404eamless in their setting and fluid in their design. The design team at Weber will work to create a custom home unique to your lifestyle.

Contact Weber Design Group to begin the process of bringing your dream to reality.

Phone: Toll Free (888) 4WeberDesign (493-2373) | Email: info@WeberDesignGroup.com

Kitchen Renovation Ideas for a Budget

Kitchens are very personal rooms that get a lot of use it's used at least 3 times every day! Kitchens start to show signs of age very quickly, which causes many people to think that they need to upgrade their kitchen. If you want to remodel your kitchen, then there are a number of things that you must consider. You should consider whether or not you want to replace any of the fixtures in your kitchen. You could also completely change the floor plan in your5B4 kitchen.

Start With The Basic Floor Plan

If you are considering changing the complete look of your kitchen, start out by designing the perfect kitchen floor plan. You need to make sure your appliances are all laid out efficiently so that you can get to them easily. Actually moving the appliances can be very difficult, if you can't handle it then you should consider hiring a professional contractor.

If you want to hire contractors and professionals to renovate your kitchen you can start by visiting kitchenbathdesign.com. This website is amazing as it provides lots of information on the subject of remodeling your kitchen. This website is my favorite because they also discuss current trends, which will make sure that your kitchen is fashionable. You will be able to find lots of information about the latest trends and kitchen appliances on this website.

There are lots of other great websites to look at when considering renovating your kitchen cabinets. One such good one is kitchendesignerideas.com. This site also helps you out with choosing counter tops and work surfaces it also includes information about designing the perfect layout for your kitchen. If you want to find unique ideas then looking on this website could be the best place to look. When you visit this website you also get an option to get a professional consultation.

Are you up for the job?

If you think you're capable of doing the whole job 5B3yourself without having to hire any professional contractors then by all means you can treat this in the same as any other DIY project. You shouldn't be worried about shopping around for ideas for your project. Visiting home improvement stores can give you loads of great ideas about your floor plan. Visiting stores like Home Depot and Lowe's are fantastic places to start, you can also ask staff for their professional opinion. Some of these projects can be very complicated, and so you need all the advice you can get.

Take a look on the internet to track down some of the home hardware stores in your local area. You can also use these websites to work out a rough estimate of the costs involved in your kitchen cabinets upgrade You can view the websites at homedepot.com and lowes.com.

Being very interested in cabinets and countertops, Jack Blacksmith is authoring large numbers of newsletters on this particular topic. You might see his writings on designing kitchen islands at different sources for designing kitchen islands tips.

High Quality Steel Building

Believe it or not, a well-designed steel building is a very smart investment, especially when you want to protect yourself and your valuables from harsh weather. Besides being more cost effective and easier to build than conventional buildings, steel buildings are sturdier and built to last.

In fact, quality steel buildings even beat most conventional buildings when it comes to withstanding the elements.

Choose the Right Building Style for Your Area

What are some things you should be looking for when choosing a steel building that can withstand harsh weather? Your geographical location determines the weather disasters you are more likely to face, so check out how well the high-quality steel buildings in your area measure up.5B6

Consider the top 5 elements and see how a steel building with open-web steel truss design can stack-up against them:

1. Blizzards - a high-quality steel building is insulated against cold weather. Look for a steel building with base molding and closure strips to lock out moisture from snow, keeping the structure of your building strong while protecting your valuables.

2. Tornadoes - strong siding for a steel building is a must when it comes to tornadoes. A steel building designed by expert engineers is able to withstand strong winds without damage.

3. Hurricanes - no screws will come loose and there will be no leaks from heavy rains when you have a steel building braced with steel rods instead of cables that stretch. A steel building can withstand hurricane-force winds and a possible structural failure. Also look for anti-siphon grooved sheeting that forces rainwater to run off and away from the building so you don't have to worry about water damage.

4. Typhoons - a high-quality steel building has girts and purlins securely fastened to provide a thermal break to avoid thermal condensation and leakage.

5. Earthquakes - The reinforced frame of a steel building helps your building stand strong. Wood girts and purlins are securely fastened at 2" intervals, improving the strength by 50%. This helps your steel building stay solid without warping or twisting, no matter how 5AFmuch the ground shakes.

When you invest your hard-earned money in a steel building kit, you want to make sure it is one that will stand the test of time - and the elements. Knowing the characteristics of a high-quality steel building according to the type of weather protection you are seeking helps you make wiser decisions. Make the right choice to get a beautiful steel building that will provide plenty of years of functional use.

Miracle Truss is an industry leader in steel buildings that are a unique hybrid of steel and edge-mounted wood which gives you maximum versatility and durability. For more than 35 years Miracle Truss steel buildings have survived blizzards, tornadoes, hurricanes, typhoons, and earthquakes without a single report of structural damage. For more information on Miracle Truss and the types of steel buildings that are designed to meet your business or personal needs, visit http://www.miracletruss.com

Tankless Water Heaters - What's The Big Deal ?

As recent as a couple of years ago, I have never heard of these things, but now it seems that more and more often, I am seeing commercials and hearing people talk about Tankless Water Heaters. What is the big deal, and why are so many people talking about Tankless Water Heaters?

According to the US Department of Energy, heating the water in our homes accounts for about a quarter of the energy used in our household, which makes hot water, the second-largest energy expense in operating our homes. As the world population increases, raising the demand for energy, it is only natural that the prices of energy will go up. In response, many people have begun looking at ways to cut their energy usage and in turn reduce their utility costs. So common sense tells us that one of the best places to start is the largest energy user in the American home, the Water Heater.

An inherent characteristic of the typical tank style water heater used in the American home, is that they waste a lot of energy. The typical water heater consists of a storage tank and a heating device which is usually a gas burner or an electric heating element. The storage tanks generally range in size from 20 to 80 gallons, with 40 gallons being the most common. The heating device is designed to slowly heat the water in the tank and to keep it hot so it is ready when needed. This is where the pr16D0oblem lies and where an opportunity to save energy exists. Why keep the water hot for twenty three hours so you can have two, thirty minute showers a day? This is what many people are starting to talk about as they try to conserve energy and save money.

Along comes the Tankless Water Heater. They have been commonly used in other counties for many years, but are only now becoming mainstream in the US. Tankless Water Heaters have a larger heating element and are designed to heat water quickly as it flows through the unit, eliminating the need for a storage tank. Cold water in, hot water out, and no wasted energy - Eureka! So why isn't everyone using one you ask. The downside of Tankless versus a conventional storage tank system is that the Tankless system will cost you more upfront. However Tankless Water Heaters are capable of using up to 50% less energy, so they will save you a lot of money over time.

So the big deal about Tankless Water Heaters is that they are a savvy energy idea whose time has come. In an environment where people are consuming more and more energy and creating excessive pollution on a planet with a limited amount of resources - what could be a better idea? When something comes along that is good for the environment at the same time that it conserves energy is not inconvenient and saves people money, that is a savvy idea.

Tankless Water Heaters are extremely efficient. They save energy, save you money and help the enviroment. Oh, and another great benefit - you will never run out of hot water! Find more helpful information on Tankless Electric Water Heaters and Tankless Gas Water Heaters at our website, TanklessWaterHeaters.SavvyEnergy.com