tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54491615789567713242024-03-08T05:16:13.816-08:00Home Improvement Ideasvaizalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03247290606649269323noreply@blogger.comBlogger9125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449161578956771324.post-63256565757898975532012-02-01T00:07:00.000-08:002012-03-15T00:07:50.625-07:00Unique Bathroom Ideas That Can Help A Person To Create Inspirational Bathrooms<div style="text-align: justify;">There are no boundaries to creating unique bathroom ideas and designing modern bathrooms with a twist. It is entirely dependent on the designer as well as the owner of the bathroom or the home. A little bit of imagination can pave the way for a good design. However, there are people who like to show off about their modern designs and rare bathroom accessories. If you are indeed intimidated by these people, you should understand that you too can create your own modern style statement by converting your own bathroom into a space-age part of your home by adopting modern building technologies, irrespective of the size.<br />
<br />
Try to understand your requirements and take a good look at your bathroom. Each new feature, every accessory, every renovation and every component should work really well together, and should be chosen so as to exude space and style. This is where bathroom ideas really gem into reality. Not all of us are blessed with big bathrooms and huge rooms; therefore, it is worthwhile to keep an aspect ratio in relation to the size of the bathroom and the fittings.</div><a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
Most bathroom fittings these days are made out of ceramic, which according to the market analysis, is the cheapest and most durable material currently in existence. It is also the preferred choice due to the design and smooth finish, which renders a hygienic appearance. This however, requires proper cleaning and maintenance if one wishes it to last a few years down the line. There are alternatives for people looking for expensive and creative options, such as glass and steel. They require more maintenance than ceramic, and even the stone or marble fittings are no better, as they are simply way more expensive than ordinary fittings.<br />
<br />
Every bathroom has a tendency to leave hard countertops and numerous surfaces such as walls and floors quite exposed. This is where tiles are generally used to cover it up and give a good aesthetic appeal. Normally, you can choose any sort of design, color and shape, but the most popular tiles are made out of ceramic. They are cheap and durable, but for a more expensive and attractive option, you can also choose glass, steel and stones such as marble and granite. Cost should be an important factor in your choice. Furthermore, you can also introduce designer tiles or custom art tiles to create a unique design.<br />
<br />
A bathroom is considered to be incomplete without the various bathroom components such as sinks, showers, closets, faucets, and taps. With the advancement in technology and the immense research in various fields, there are greater innovative designs and styles of such accessories, which allow a person to run wild with their bathroom ideas. The only concern is the cost, and you can select any sort of style, design, materials or even size according to your own budget.<br />
<br />
There are really expensive fittings, and then there are cheap ones, with a few that are built to look expensive, but are relatively cheap. Most of the time, companies use steel, plastic and other similar metals for manufacturing taps and faucets, but ceramic is also popular. If you are worried about the space, don't despair, since, there are bathroom components built specifically to fit into any small space.<br />
<br />
Space can be a premium; hence, your bathroom ideas should be able to cater to that specific requirement. Bathrooms are indeed important; therefore, try to work out a plan that allows your bathroom to blend in with your home, rather than making it stick out. Shop around for bathroom accessories that are durable, design oriented and within your budget.vaizalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03247290606649269323noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449161578956771324.post-64693413450030607302012-01-19T00:05:00.000-08:002012-03-15T00:06:52.461-07:00House Construction Stages<div style="text-align: justify;">You must have seen hundreds of houses being built in front you while you were on your way to work or home. It takes weeks but at the end of it but, the end result is completely worth the labor and toil as well as time!<br />
<br />
You must have wondered what stages are involved in house building and who are the people who do this job. If you are planning to undertake any construction work in your house or are interested in it just for the sake of it, read on to find out what goes behind sturdy and luxurious houses before they stand on ground.<br />
<br />
Before any of the 'real' work can take place, you need to have a lawyer who can look at your contract with the builder. Your lawyer will help you with assigning dates to each task so that the whole process completes on time.</div><a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
You will also have to get your own inspector who can come and inspect the progress of home building at various stages.<br />
<br />
Site preparation and foundation<br />
This will include the groundwork. Earthwork such as excavation, land clearing and grading will have to be done. This process is known as site preparation. Your home cannot be built unless site has been prepared by excavation contracting companies.<br />
<br />
Excavating contractor companies will remove debris from the site so work can take place. Your home will be built on a foundation, which will either be a basement, slab or a crawl space. Slabs are probably the easiest ways of building a foundation, as they only require concrete to be poured directly on ground. Very little labor goes into building a slab foundation.<br />
<br />
Framing<br />
A basic skeleton of your house is erected with the help of wood or steel framing, roof sheathing and an exterior wall. Municipal inspectors will typically visit the site to see the progress of rough framing.<br />
<br />
Mechanical, plumbing and electrical stage<br />
Plumbing work will require installation of a septic tank and sewer lines while electrical work will require installation of all switches and electrical wires throughout the house. HVAC systems will also be installed at this stage.vaizalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03247290606649269323noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449161578956771324.post-33127440428131830822011-12-15T00:04:00.000-08:002012-03-15T00:05:22.252-07:00Popular Home Additions For Your Residence<div style="text-align: justify;">Home additions are a great way to expand the space within an existing residence rather than selling and moving. In the old days, selling real estate was a snap. The realty sign was posted; someone purchased it for the asking price or even more; the new house was selected and moved into. If the young children of a family were growing up and needed their own bedrooms, families would trade in their two or three bedroom abode for one with four or five bedrooms. If the kitchen was too tiny or there was only one bathroom, no problem. The family would just sell and find one with the amenities that their place was lacking. Nowadays, this isn't so easy. Besides, if a mom, dad and the kids are well acquainted with the neighbors, love their schools and all the nearby parks, shopping and what have you, relocating can be a drag. Plus, there are lots of expenses involved in moving -not only the obvious costs of paying a realtor and paying more money for a larger abode. There are some less obvious monetary outlays, as well. Some examples of these hidden costs include hooking up utilities, hiring movers, buying different furnishings that fit better in the new space and more. If the new neighborhood doesn't have the stellar school district like the old one, Junior may have to go to private school which is a chunk of change, for sure. Many people are realizing that building additions is the best of both worlds. The homeowners get their extra space but they don't have to relocate. Here are some of the popular additions:</div><a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
Bedrooms Or Conversions<br />
<br />
Depending on what stage of life a family is in, they may need more bedrooms or fewer. When babies are born or children grow into teens, there may be a need for additional bedrooms. On the flip side of that coin, if the kids have grown up and moved away, the empty nesters may want to expand Junior's bedroom into a home office or theater with surround sound. Why not?<br />
<br />
Kitchen Or Bathroom Expansions<br />
<br />
Having a gourmet kitchen with room to really move around and creatively prepare meals is a joy. Many homeowners want to add space to their meal preparation area as well as their dining space. Changing out cabinetry, adding a chopping block, a bumped out space for formal dining or adding more storage space are all popular ways of enhancing one's abode. Bathrooms don't have to be utilitarian spaces to shower or brush one's teeth. They can be home spas and relaxation areas. Jacuzzi tubs, separate showers, his and her sinks are all quite popular with couples of all ages.<br />
<br />
When homeowners want a bit more space or luxurious amenities, there's no need to call in the realtors or the movers. Instead, calling in a contractor who specializes in remodels and additions can be a way to get the best of both worlds - expanding or improving the space but not having to sell, buy or relocate.vaizalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03247290606649269323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449161578956771324.post-49866920254201167662011-11-11T00:03:00.000-08:002012-03-15T00:04:28.604-07:00Help Finishing Home Improvement Projects<div style="text-align: justify;"> Every once in a while, as human beings, we all experience some degree of loss of attention for the project that we're working on. Sometimes we even lose attention during the conversation about the project that we're participating in, distracted. However, when it comes to home improvement there are several stages of planning, preparation, and purchasing for an accepted professional bid in order to complete a larger project. This often involves discovering your limitations with smaller projects before looking forward to larger ones. It can seem and actually be overwhelming.<br />
<br />
After all, you are pursuing the changing of your living space. Sacrifices of time and space must be made in order to bring you what you want to see, fell, and experience in your addition, remodel, or full renovation. Your latest home improvement project may have started with the master bath then moved to updating all of the bathrooms. Or, your plans were supposed to include turning your office into a nursery before the family's spring due date. Neither one of these projects can be put off any longer. You can't go without a bathroom, and you can't fathom your baby not having a room to come home to. So with at least two more months left of winter to pluck away, you have plenty of time to create a strategy, enact a plan, and enlist some help with finally finishing your home improvement projects.</div><a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
The first step to project completion is to acknowledge that you didn't finish on your own the last time because you didn't have the time or skill. So, now you can call a few professional contractors in your area. They should be able to come to your home to inspect the standing fixtures, assess the progress that you've made over the past months and make suggestions of how they can assist you from here to the coveted finish line.<br />
<br />
Every contractor you call and have over to your home should present you with a professional bid. This outlines the materials, equipment, individual projects and man hours required to help you finish. The bid is a price quote for all of the above. Also, it should include a concrete date of completion. There should be no estimates of deadline. If a surprise comes up such as a delay of materials or dry rot, for example, there should be an adjustment in labor and/or deadline to a new definitive date not a range of days, weeks, or months. You should also keep in mind that your vision for your space should be heard and applied, within reason of what is structurally possible, according to code and materials being used. After selecting a company, you will be made aware of the insurance for the workers and for your other property in the home during construction.<br />
<br />
Frankly, enlisting a professional contractor's help is the easiest way to ensure completion. They are already trained and prepared to organize tasks, select the best materials, and install by deadline. It is the routine of their profession and how they became so successful. Now you can just kick back and look forward to a comfortable spring in your master bath or placing your baby to sleep in his or her first room.vaizalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03247290606649269323noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449161578956771324.post-39642045128609568722011-10-28T00:02:00.000-07:002012-03-15T00:03:25.854-07:003 Things To Remember When Getting Home Improvement<div style="text-align: justify;">There are millions of people every year who look into fixing up their home or building a new home from the ground up. Whether you're starting out from scratch, or are working on a home you've lived in for quite some time, a few universal tips can go a long way. This is especially true if you're looking at hiring contractors for larger scale construction projects. The reason why you will want to do some preliminary thinking is because you will have to live with the results, and more than just living with them, you'll have to pay for them. Even if you decide to do all the work on your own, you'll have to invest heavily in the cost of updating, remodeling, or even starting construction projects. With that in mind, consider the following 3 things that will help you get things rolling and keep them going until the end.<br />
<br />
Shop Around - The first tip for anyone that wants to get construction moving is simply shop around. Whether it's supplies, or general contractors, make sure that you spend some time looking around and comparing all available options and resources. Do not simply go with the first option, as you might find out that there are a lot of other choices that may be better for your particular needs. The reason why you want to shop around is because it will give you a clearer definition of cost and ideas.</div><a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
Estimates - Shopping around is great, but you really should remember to get written estimates. Without an estimate, you will not be able to understand the costs associated with any size construction project. Get estimates in writing and make sure that you get a fully itemized list of labor and supplies. Use that to make an educated decision on how you move forward. It's good to know that reputable contractors for home remodels will happily give estimates if you ask for them.<br />
<br />
Budget - The last thing to consider is something that many overlook at first. There's nothing worse than having to stop home construction because you don't have the budget to complete the job. This might seem rudimentary for some people, but for others this will be a great tip. Set aside a modest budget with a little extra, just in case something arises amidst efforts that will need additional payments. Do not under estimate the cost of your project, because you will be left with a job that is incomplete, and getting additional financing options can be difficult.<br />
<br />
The above 3 things to remember are just a few tips that will guide you through the process of home improvement. They are just the beginning, as home construction costs can rise exponentially and cause a lot of headaches if done with haste. Making an educated decision moving forward, and setting up the right tools for success requires a little bit of forethought. Do not, under any circumstances, make haste and leave behind important details. If you aren't sure how to approach anything, make sure to ask questions during any estimate or supply purchase. It's never a bad idea to cover things at length, just to ensure high quality output.vaizalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03247290606649269323noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449161578956771324.post-43125817637994319772011-10-12T00:01:00.000-07:002012-03-15T00:02:14.340-07:00Protecting Your Home and Belongings From Fire Damage<div style="text-align: justify;">Fire damage to a home or belongings can be devastating. In addition to the havoc flames can wreak on the structural aspects of a house, they can destroy treasured possessions that can never be replaced such as photographs, artwork, and sentimental items. Many objects that become charred or destroyed may not be restored. It's always easier to prevent than repair, so rather than taking a risk, all homeowners and even renters should take necessary precautions to protect themselves as well as the exterior and interior of their dwelling from a potential blaze.<br />
<br />
Whether you live in a house or apartment, one way to help prevent fire damage and discourage the spread of flames is by keeping the yard clear. Trees, or at the very least branches should be cut away from the exterior of the property. This is especially true for any dead ones as these are usually dried out and can incinerate quickly. Having a generous border of gravel, concrete, or just plain soil can also deter approaching flames from engulfing the exterior of your home. Those extra few minutes may be just what is required until help can arrive and extinguish the problem, or will give you the opportunity to gather a few important belongings and any pets.</div><a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
Do you live next door to messy neighbors or smokers? A yard full of junk or dead plants is much more likely to go up in smoke than a neatly trimmed and living garden. Likewise, careless smokers can fall asleep with a cigarette in mouth, and that small spark on a bedspread is enough to destroy an entire neighborhood. While you can't necessarily change their habits, you can make some suggestions or call the city if their yard is potentially hazardous. Building a sturdy stone or brick wall around your property is another possible preventative measure.<br />
<br />
On the interior, the first and most obvious fire damage preventative measure you can have is a working alarm. Too often people don't change the batteries or ensure that it is working properly. Many people even have knocked them straight off the walls if they accidentally go off, never bothering to fix them again. A smoke detector is crucial and can save your life. Additionally, remove hazards such as that electrical octopus behind the computer. Electrical faults can cause tragedy to strike.<br />
<br />
In addition to prevention, there are some things you can do inside of your home to make it easier to grab essential possessions in case of an emergency. Keep a small, lightweight box of sentimental items under your bed within easy reach. Store some notes, favorite photographs, jewelry, or a few other small trinkets that are irreplaceable. Having these can be a great comfort to you, even if you are unable to save anything else. Also, keep a small pet carrier nearby if you have animals. If they are panicked because of smoke or flames, you may not be able to hold onto them tightly enough. If you can manage to get them into a carrier you can safely escape with them.vaizalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03247290606649269323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449161578956771324.post-14180654178679463972011-08-02T00:00:00.000-07:002012-03-15T00:01:06.527-07:00Top Celebrity Home Designers<div style="text-align: justify;">Have you just purchased a new home, or are you thinking about redecorating the one that you already have? Home design can be a very tricky endeavor. You want to mix your tastes with what is socially acceptable and try not to go overboard. Well lucky for you, there are many interior designers that are available to help you. Now you may think that it can be a pricey endeavor, and it can be. However, nobody is saying that you have to hire a designer or that you even have to change everything overnight. The trick is to find a designer that fits your needs and tastes and look through their pictures and ideas for inspiration. This article will introduce four top designers that you probably have already seen. Now that you will be more familiar with them, you can begin to let the inspiration come to you.<br />
<br />
You are living under a rock if you have never heard of a certain day time talk show host who turns everything she touches to gold. Thanks to her, this first designer also became a household name after appearing on her show and then eventually getting his own design TV show. Nate Berkus grew up in Massachusetts and then attended college in Chicago. Upon graduation he started Nate Berkus Associates. In his career he has appeared on the Oprah show, had his own talk show, published books, and even has product lines at Linens and things and HSN.</div><a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
Probably best known for his hosting duties on Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, this design guru has spent his career trying to change the world of those around him. In addition to this show, Ty also has two international design shows. Inside the Box with Ty Pennington airs in Canada and UKTV Home which airs in Britain and focuses on transforming the homes of those who served in the British Army. Ty continues to push his products into the market place in retail stores, lumber stores, and even the bookstores.<br />
<br />
Those who are familiar with the Bravo TV show Flipping Out, have probably seen this designer appear on the show. Ryan Brown is an interior designer that works in California. At one point he had a personal and professional relationship with Flipping Out Star, Jeff Lewis. These two went their separate ways and Ryan was able to start his own company. He can now also be seen on Spouse vs. House on TLC.<br />
<br />
One final celebrity designer on our list is HGTV Design Star judge Genevieve Gorder. Genevieve is known for her whimsical and eclectic taste and even showcases her talents in another HGTV show called Ask Genevieve. Genevieve has spent her time traveling the world and finding inspiration in the world around her.<br />
<br />
All of these designers have something to offer you. Whether it is inspiration or actual design pieces, these designers can help you create your dream home or room. Keep in mind that now would be a great time to invest in some home insurance if you do not already have it. It would be a shame to accomplish your dream home and then have it go unprotected.vaizalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03247290606649269323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449161578956771324.post-38938865747979897792011-07-19T23:59:00.000-07:002012-03-15T00:00:08.189-07:00Your Water Softener Saves Resources<div style="text-align: justify;">You know that your water softener makes your skin and hair feel great, removing the dullness and itchiness that comes from hardness in the waters of your home, but did you also know that it can save resources as well? These systems can help you save energy, money, and sometimes even time as you care for your home.<br />
<br />
When you are dealing with hard water, your appliances are aging to use more energy. In a study published by the New Mexico State University, home appliances, specifically water heaters, were studied. Those in homes with softened water used between 21 and 29 percent less energy than those in homes with hardened waters. Over the course of a year, that adds up.</div><a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
Also, when you have a water softener, you will find that you need less soap to do your regular cleaning tasks, from washing clothing to washing yourself. Using less soap ultimately means spending less money. It also means less of the earth's natural resources are being used up when you take a bath or wash a load of clothing.<br />
<br />
This is not just hearsay, either. The Water Quality Research Foundation did a study on this topic. In this study, softened waters allowed participants to reduce their soap use by as much as 50 percent.<br />
<br />
There is another way that a water softener can save money. When your home is impacted by hard waters, your clothes are going to fade faster, your plumbing fixtures are going to get buildup and corrode faster, and other things in your home will be damaged. Replacing these items before their time is going to cost you money. Softeners can offset this cost by helping extend the life of your clothes and plumbing.<br />
<br />
Of course, there is the time and money you will spend maintaining the system to think of, but this is so small in comparison to the amount you will save, you will likely find it to be a worthwhile investment. Salt only needs to be replaced once every four to six weeks in the average home, and it costs just a few dollars per bag, depending on the type you use. This is far from a large expense.<br />
<br />
However, these benefits only come if you have hard water. To learn if you do, in fact, need a water softener, you should contact a professional who is skilled in testing and treating home waters. They will be able to inspect your system and determine if you need this type of help.<br />
<br />
If you do, you will need to make adjustments. Your water softener will not save you much if you continue to use the same amount of soap. You will need to remember that you have a new, eco-friendly system that requires less. Start using the least amount possible, and see what your results are. Soon you will notice that you are saving money because you are losing less of these products, but you will only notice this if you make the change.vaizalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03247290606649269323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449161578956771324.post-23314012192746212622011-07-11T23:56:00.000-07:002012-03-14T23:58:57.983-07:00Home Improvement Contractors : Tips and InfoComplaints against home improvement contractors and construction contractors regularly rank in the top five complaint categories of annual consumer affairs surveys, reports the Consumer Federation of America National Association of Consumer Agency Administrators. The most complaints received from customers involve poor construction contractor work quality, and inaccurate completion estimates. Ensuring a positive home improvement experience for your customer leads to future referrals.<br />
<br />
To present your company as honest and well run, you'll want to ensure you're providing your potential customers the following information when you have your first formal meeting.<br />
<br />
• Copies of your state license and registration<br />
• Correct and current contact information for at least three references in your customers area<br />
• Proof of contractor's insurance<br />
• Copies of any professional certifications you earned<br />
<br />
Explain the significance of each item so your customers feel engaged in the construction process and don't feel like you're unnecessarily increasing costs. For example, if presenting a copy of your professional certification from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), explain to the customer that NARI only awards s certificate to established, professional contractors with a clean background checks who've passed a written comprehension examination.<br />
<br />
Providing yours customer with the above items upfront says:<br />
<br />
• You and your company are organized and proactive in attitude.<br />
• You and your business are transparent and in compliance with the necessary regulations.<br />
<br />
Pricing Transparency<br />
<br />
Low-ball price estimates might attract initial interest, but they won't boost your client referral rate in the long-term. Customers are less likely to feel cheated if they understand the pricing details before you begin the project. Review the price estimate with your customers and explain why a specific brand or material type is necessary for the project. Always provide a print-out of your comprehensive estimate along with a basic contract that includes the following information.<br />
<br />
• A fully itemized list of estimated required materials including the brand and quantity.<br />
• Estimated hours<br />
• Total anticipated cost<br />
• Also include possible scenarios that may increase costs such as discovering mold or unexpected rotten boards.<br />
<br />
During Construction<br />
<br />
• Check in with your customers frequently throughout the project. Inform them immediately of any unexpected obstacles and explain how this will affect the project price or timeline.<br />
• Contain your construction-related mess whenever possible. A simple tarp or clear panel over the doorway keeps your customers from inhaling dust and residue. Always ask the customers' permission before moving furniture or altering the home beyond the scope of the project.<br />
<br />
After Construction<br />
<br />
• A construction contractor with integrity will call customers within a few weeks of completing the project to answer any questions or concerns they have and address them as necessary.<br />
• Provide extra business cards to make referring your services easy.<br />
<br />
Distinguishing yourself professionally as one of the best home improvement contractors through superior customer service will ensure future business opportunities.vaizalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03247290606649269323noreply@blogger.com0