Home improvement projects do not always payoff as an investment, but then we seldom undertake a project for purely monetary reasons. More often than not we want to remodel a kitchen or bathroom, convert a garage or do some other project simply to make living a little "better". The increased value of our home is of secondary consideration. Nevertheless, it is a consideration and is a very effective way of increasing the value of a home.
The goal of most home improvement projects is generally to add more space or light to an existing room or to improve and modernize the house or apartment utilities such as kitchen, bathroom, garage, or heating. Home improvement projects such as these not only preserve or even enhance the value of a property but often add a higher degree of safety.
Return On Investment - A Brief Guide
The following is presented as a guide only to assist you in deciding which project to undertake first if money is a consideration and multiple projects are being planned.
* Kitchen remodel (minor) in Connecticut = 125%
* Kitchen remodel (major) in Kentucky = 92%
* Bathroom remodel in Oregon = 90%
* Bathroom remodel in Missouri = 96%
* Master bedroom in Florida is 86%
* Basement remodel in California = 98%
* Exterior paint in Pennsylvania = 90%
Kitchens - A Place To Start
Kitchen remodeling may include such items as new or re-faced cabinets, counter tops, flooring and appliances. Redesigning your kitchen to enhance work flow in meal preparation will make cooking a much more pleasant experience and add to the resale appeal of your home. Obviously, kitchen remodeling can be a major renovation project, however there are many do it yourself home improvements that can be done in the kitchen. Vinyl laminate flooring is ideal for a small budget kitchen home improvement job.
Bathroom Are Going Upscale
If you are trying to increase the value of your home by improving just one room in the house, you might well want to consider the bathroom. This is definitely a place to take a hint from the current crop of new homes being built. Luxurious bathrooms are in vogue. Today, a major bathroom upgrade could and probably should be one of the most luxurious renovations you do in the entire home. Particular attention needs to be paid to the sink and counter top. Your eyesight naturally goes there when entering a bathroom. The large home improvement store such as Lowes and Home Depot can supply you with just about anything that you can dream of today.
Basements - A Caution
Before undertaking a basement remodel be sure you have moisture under control. Damp or literally wet basements are a problem in many areas. This can usually be easily corrected by a professional but be sure to get several bids before doing this. Basement moisture control is one area noted for scams and/or shoddy, unnecessary work.
General
Home improvement is generally done with the intention of adding some space to an existing room or to add some light to the room. Keep in mind that a building permit is usually required when performing structural work or when a home's basic living area is changed.
Planning for home improvement is like planning for a war; no matter what your estimation as to cost and time is, it will probably take longer and cost more than you estimated. Unlike war, however, home improvement is usually worth it. Home improvement is a really a good investment, producing both a better place in which to live and an increase in the long term value of your house.
Summary
Home improvement includes the repairing, remodeling, altering, converting, modernizing or adding to residential property. It is not an exact science. Any home improvement project needs to be carefully planned with professionals consulted when needed. If adding value is your prime consideration, plan first on upgrading the kitchen and bathroom which offer the best return for you home improvement dollar.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Flood Repair and Water Damage Experts
Natural disasters are something we cannot escape. Despite all the preparations you might make to ensure that your home or business stays secure there is nothing you can do when nature hits you.
In the United States flooding is the most common natural disaster and is responsible for more deaths than any other natural disaster. Aside from the high death toll it also exacts a high price in terms of property damage, which is estimated to be more than $1 billion each year. Just recently in Northern Scottsdale, Arizona, water damage due to flooding led to approximately $2 million in damages. The water damaged not only walls and carpeting but also led to unrecoverable losses in materials like books and computers. In New York, extensive water damage at CBS forced the "Early Show" to change locations on the morning of August 8. All over New York water damage became a problem due to heavy thunderstorms and flash floods.
Flooding is also nothing new to California residents. In fact California is currently making news headlines as its governor tries to push for better flood control infrastructure. In California water damage is an imminent risk faced by everyone since its levees are not sound and fail at least once every 7.5 months. The surprising thing about flooding is that it doesn't happen only in high risk coastal areas. In fact, � of areas that are flooded each year are those classified as low and moderate flood risk areas. This means that wherever you live flooding is a risk you face especially during hurricane season.
To lessen the damages brought about by flooding you should take proper precautions before flooding occurs and immediately call for help right after the flood. Safety precautions prior to flooding include being aware of weather conditions that might result in flooding and having an evacuation plan both for your home and business. To lessen the impact of water damage brought about by flooding make sure you do the following before the flood arrives: * Secure shelves and other like furniture to the wall * Place all electronic equipment, clothes, and cushions in high shelves. * Remove the carpets and rugs. When your home or business gets flooded you should call a water damage restoration expert like 1-800-FLOODED immediately. 1-800-FLOODED offers 24 hours water extraction service so you won't have to wait. Remember the longer the water stays the more damage it does. This means that while waiting for help to come you should start water removal by doing the following: * Bail out/mop up as much water as you can while waiting for professional help to arrive. * Remove all wet fabric (clothes, drapes, sheets, etc.), cushions, and rugs and hang them out to dry. * Wipe all the furniture with dry cloth. When the professionals arrive they will take over the process of water removal. Note though that water extraction is simply the first step in water damage restoration. Water damage restoration will entail other processes like structural drying, mold prevention/removal, and decontamination, among others.
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Tips for Decorating in Vintage Retro Style
Vintage retro decor is a very popular style. Choose the color scheme and accessories that coordinate with that scheme or pattern. Utilize yard sales to find vintage accessories for your room.
The kitchen seems to be the favorite place of most people for redecorating. Perhaps this is because of the kitchen's reputation for being the home's heart, and it is certainly the room where we spend a great many hours. For that reason, it's of importance for it to have a decorator style of its own.
Vintage retro style is one that is becoming quite popular and the addition of vintage d�cor to your kitchen can give it a real facelift as well as giving you an excuse to acquire some collectibles you can show to your guests.
Decorating Advice
When redecorating a room, you should take into consideration everything in the room—wall color, flooring, window treatments, furniture and accessories. To allow your vintage d�cor to really stand out, you may want to add vintage tile to the walls or paint them in vintage colors. Some possible color combinations for the vintage decorating style include cream and green, red and white, or pink and blue. Some of the 1970s retro styles are also popular today, so you can choose to use a harvest gold or avocado and orange as your color scheme.
The window treatments you use can dramatically affect the look of your vintage d�cor. Using vintage curtains is one way of accentuating your vintage kitchen. It usually isn't difficult to find curtains from any time period for a reasonable price, but if you can't find something that coordinates or matches your vintage color scheme, try cutting up some vintage tablecloths or dish towels and make them into curtains.
How to Accessorize
The key to putting together your vintage d�cor look lies in the decorative items you choose. If you cannot replace everything, at least replace tablecloths, dishware, and canisters in colors and patterns that coordinate or match the vintage color scheme you have chosen. Stainless steel canisters and breadboxes are a good choice as are metal canister sets that have cherry, plain pink and powder blue patterns. Yard sales are a good place to find vintage d�cor items in addition to vintage plates, tablecloths, and towels.
Take advantage of your wall space to show up the vintage decorator items you found. You can either hang them on the walls as group displays or display them on shelves. Displaying items in groupings that vary in number and height adds interest to your displays. When you hang things n the wall, place them in a geometric pattern instead of just hanging them void of any time of pattern or formation.
You don't have to be skillful or have a lot of money in order to obtain a great vintage kitchen look. All you need is to be a smart shopper and have a good eye for vintage accessoriesMonday, July 23, 2007
Choosing A Countertop That Is Right For You
Choosing a kitchen counter material can be an overwhelming task in the midst of a huge kitchen makeover. Before you select a material, try to decide what look you are going for. Scour magazines and take a trip to your local home improvement center to get an idea how each type of material will effect the overall style of the kitchen.
Some materials for kitchen counter tops include:
Laminate - The least expensive and comes in a huge range of colors. You have to be careful not to cut or put anything hot on the surface, but it is easy to clean. It is not as durable as stone or Corian and doesn’t look as nice either!
Tiles - Tiles can range in price from very inexpensive to very expensive depending on your choice. In my opinion they make terrible counter tops because food and such tends to get caught in the grout lines. Even worse, if you use light colored grout it gets dirty very quickly and must be scrubbed all the time. Tiles can crack and chip easily.
Corian - A very durable counter that is seamless and has the look of granite. It comes in a myriad of colors and can scratch, but these can be sanded and repaired. Unlike stone, it will melt so no hot pots on the counter top. More expensive than laminate but a bit less than stone.
Granite - This material is a long time favorite and one of the most expensive. It is extremely durable and virtually scratch free and heat proof. It is porous, though so you will have to wipe up any spills quickly and be careful about what chemicals you put on it. These days, granite comes in a range shades in the gray - black - green and even dark blue colors. Granite must be sealed every year, but otherwise is quite easy to clean and care for.
Marble - Beautiful but very porous and is not really practical for a counter top. It will stain easily with normal food prep.
Slate - Slate has a nice warm earthy look without the shininess of granite. It is durable and easy to clean and unlike granite is nonporous. Scratches can be easily repaired.
Tell 2 of Your Friends &
Here's What Will Happen to You:-
Butcher Block - Wood kitchen counter top materials can give hour kitchen a warm look. Butcher block is good for cutting as the marks can be sanded out but it is not very resistant to bacteria or stains. Would need periodic conditioning.
Concrete - Fast becoming a favorite in modern kitchens that want an industrial look, concrete is a mid priced material that can be mixed to form any color and even can be mixed with little pieces of anything you want it it! It is durable and easy to clean but is very porous and should be sealed to avoid staining.
More, go here
Some materials for kitchen counter tops include:
Laminate - The least expensive and comes in a huge range of colors. You have to be careful not to cut or put anything hot on the surface, but it is easy to clean. It is not as durable as stone or Corian and doesn’t look as nice either!
Tiles - Tiles can range in price from very inexpensive to very expensive depending on your choice. In my opinion they make terrible counter tops because food and such tends to get caught in the grout lines. Even worse, if you use light colored grout it gets dirty very quickly and must be scrubbed all the time. Tiles can crack and chip easily.
Corian - A very durable counter that is seamless and has the look of granite. It comes in a myriad of colors and can scratch, but these can be sanded and repaired. Unlike stone, it will melt so no hot pots on the counter top. More expensive than laminate but a bit less than stone.
Granite - This material is a long time favorite and one of the most expensive. It is extremely durable and virtually scratch free and heat proof. It is porous, though so you will have to wipe up any spills quickly and be careful about what chemicals you put on it. These days, granite comes in a range shades in the gray - black - green and even dark blue colors. Granite must be sealed every year, but otherwise is quite easy to clean and care for.
Marble - Beautiful but very porous and is not really practical for a counter top. It will stain easily with normal food prep.
Slate - Slate has a nice warm earthy look without the shininess of granite. It is durable and easy to clean and unlike granite is nonporous. Scratches can be easily repaired.
Tell 2 of Your Friends &
Here's What Will Happen to You:-
Butcher Block - Wood kitchen counter top materials can give hour kitchen a warm look. Butcher block is good for cutting as the marks can be sanded out but it is not very resistant to bacteria or stains. Would need periodic conditioning.
Concrete - Fast becoming a favorite in modern kitchens that want an industrial look, concrete is a mid priced material that can be mixed to form any color and even can be mixed with little pieces of anything you want it it! It is durable and easy to clean but is very porous and should be sealed to avoid staining.
More, go here
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Retractable Awnings and Their Appeal
Awnings are excellent when placed on the patio as they can help you to enjoy your garden a lot more. They come in a variety of different styles and so it is important to know what you want from the awning before rushing out and purchasing one.
Creating a relaxing and appealing patio environment is essential if you want to make the most of those hot summer days. Potentially a patio can enhance the look of your home and extend your garden and by adding accessories such as an awning, you could really help to protect your home too.
Why Using Awnings Enhances the Patio
If you are trying to make the most of your patio area then adding an awning to it can really help to complete the look. Imagine a patio with a table and chairs, a water feature to the side and an awning keeping you cool. In the hot summer months it really cannot get more relaxing than sipping a refreshing drink under an awning and enjoying the spectacular view that you have created.
An awning will fit into any patio design. Whether you choose to use a water feature or simple paving stones, an awning will go perfectly well on the patio area. You could even choose to use a wooden deck with wooden patio furniture and in that case an Alumawood style awning would be better suited. There will always be an awning to suit the style of patio which you have as they do come in a large variety of colors and styles.
If you add a really colorful awning to the patio then it can really help to add character and give it a more welcoming atmosphere. However a simple, striking awning can create a more formal and elegant feel to the patio if you would prefer. So no matter whether you are looking to create a modern or traditional look, you can achieve it with the large variety of awnings available to purchase.
When selecting an awning you need to look at how protective it will be. Can it protect against the sun, high winds, insects and the rain? Not all of these factors may be important to you but generally it is a good idea to know what you want before you go shopping for an awning. For example, do you want an awning which will protect you from insects whilst eating outside? Many awnings come with mesh which stop insects from getting inside and that allows you to eat in peace.
Other awnings come with integrated lights which can be use don nice summer evenings. Combine that with a patio heater and in the cooler months you can still enjoy relaxing on the patio. So there definitely is something to suit everyone!
Overall awnings are used for a variety of different purposes and so it is important to know what you want before you go shopping for one. When added to the patio they can really complete the look and they can add a little character to the garden too.
Creating a relaxing and appealing patio environment is essential if you want to make the most of those hot summer days. Potentially a patio can enhance the look of your home and extend your garden and by adding accessories such as an awning, you could really help to protect your home too.
Why Using Awnings Enhances the Patio
If you are trying to make the most of your patio area then adding an awning to it can really help to complete the look. Imagine a patio with a table and chairs, a water feature to the side and an awning keeping you cool. In the hot summer months it really cannot get more relaxing than sipping a refreshing drink under an awning and enjoying the spectacular view that you have created.
An awning will fit into any patio design. Whether you choose to use a water feature or simple paving stones, an awning will go perfectly well on the patio area. You could even choose to use a wooden deck with wooden patio furniture and in that case an Alumawood style awning would be better suited. There will always be an awning to suit the style of patio which you have as they do come in a large variety of colors and styles.
If you add a really colorful awning to the patio then it can really help to add character and give it a more welcoming atmosphere. However a simple, striking awning can create a more formal and elegant feel to the patio if you would prefer. So no matter whether you are looking to create a modern or traditional look, you can achieve it with the large variety of awnings available to purchase.
When selecting an awning you need to look at how protective it will be. Can it protect against the sun, high winds, insects and the rain? Not all of these factors may be important to you but generally it is a good idea to know what you want before you go shopping for an awning. For example, do you want an awning which will protect you from insects whilst eating outside? Many awnings come with mesh which stop insects from getting inside and that allows you to eat in peace.
Other awnings come with integrated lights which can be use don nice summer evenings. Combine that with a patio heater and in the cooler months you can still enjoy relaxing on the patio. So there definitely is something to suit everyone!
Overall awnings are used for a variety of different purposes and so it is important to know what you want before you go shopping for one. When added to the patio they can really complete the look and they can add a little character to the garden too.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Laminate Flooring: A DIYer's Dream
Laminate flooring has been one of the most popular flooring solutions for homeowner since it was first introduced, and it is now available in a range of prices, and designs, to suit any conceivable budget and taste.
Styles of Laminate Flooring
Wood-replicating laminate flooring? You'll not only find laminate flooring to resemble hardwoods of every species; you'll find it colored to match any wood stain, and in more patterns than you thought possible. Single, double, or triple strip patterns; beveled or square edges; a wide variety of finished; and all of them ready, with their adhesive backings and snap together fit, are ready to be taken from their cartons and slapped on your floor.
If you are handy enough with math to know how to make templates for the cutouts and cut rounds necessary for fitting the laminate flooring squares to your floor, you can even do your own installation. For experienced DIYers who have some practice, completing two or three hundred square feet of laminate flooring installation in a day is not impossible.
Research Your Laminate Flooring Options
If you are considering laminate flooring for your home, you should begin by researching the reputations of the various laminate flooring manufacturers. Most of them have websites, as do the flooring retailers in your area who carry their products. You will learn a great amount simply by reading the customer reviews of those who have purchased the different laminates, both about their quality, and about the customer service they received from the retailers.
It's human nature for you to want your laminate flooring dollars to get you the very best product you can find; but one thing to keep in mind is that the laminate flooring which costs the most maybe priced according to its popularity, not its quality. Laminate in a trendy color may be impossible for the retailers to keep on their shelves, and they will, naturally enough, price it to take advantage of the extra customer interest.
By doing your research, you will soon get a handle on which laminate flooring manufacturers are known for the quality of both their products and customer service, and you can then narrow down your list according to prices. And remember, if you are willing to practice with a few squares of your laminate flooring, you may find that you can actually do your own installation, eliminating the need for, and cost of, a contractor!
Styles of Laminate Flooring
Wood-replicating laminate flooring? You'll not only find laminate flooring to resemble hardwoods of every species; you'll find it colored to match any wood stain, and in more patterns than you thought possible. Single, double, or triple strip patterns; beveled or square edges; a wide variety of finished; and all of them ready, with their adhesive backings and snap together fit, are ready to be taken from their cartons and slapped on your floor.
If you are handy enough with math to know how to make templates for the cutouts and cut rounds necessary for fitting the laminate flooring squares to your floor, you can even do your own installation. For experienced DIYers who have some practice, completing two or three hundred square feet of laminate flooring installation in a day is not impossible.
Research Your Laminate Flooring Options
If you are considering laminate flooring for your home, you should begin by researching the reputations of the various laminate flooring manufacturers. Most of them have websites, as do the flooring retailers in your area who carry their products. You will learn a great amount simply by reading the customer reviews of those who have purchased the different laminates, both about their quality, and about the customer service they received from the retailers.
It's human nature for you to want your laminate flooring dollars to get you the very best product you can find; but one thing to keep in mind is that the laminate flooring which costs the most maybe priced according to its popularity, not its quality. Laminate in a trendy color may be impossible for the retailers to keep on their shelves, and they will, naturally enough, price it to take advantage of the extra customer interest.
By doing your research, you will soon get a handle on which laminate flooring manufacturers are known for the quality of both their products and customer service, and you can then narrow down your list according to prices. And remember, if you are willing to practice with a few squares of your laminate flooring, you may find that you can actually do your own installation, eliminating the need for, and cost of, a contractor!
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
Here's what a Jacuzzi will do for you!
Jacuzzi's are a great recreational and health benefit for a home. Having some idea what type and what uses you will have for it, are keys to purchasing the right one for you.
MORE INFORMATION
There's nothing like going to a hotel and finding out you are in the jacuzzi suites! Of course, many people request this when traveling. Jacuzzis can take away a lot of stress and worry just in a few minutes time. Jacuzzi tubs can be added to your home as well giving you a great place to unwind after a long day. A jacuzzi tub is normally larger then the average bathtub and requires a lot more knowledge to install. Obviously, the wiring and power to the jacuzzi is important and should be handled by a professional.
So, where to start? Start by knowing what you can afford and how much room is available to you. Jacuzzi's come in many different shapes and also in different qualities. Some often fit the corner of a bathroom as opposed to along a single wall like most bathtubs. This can give you added space in a small bathroom. Finding the right jacuzzi isn't all that hard. Most major home improvement stores will have a selection to start to look at. If, you are not satisfied with the selection there or would like more options, check into specialty stores for more choices. Often times, these places will also offer installation as well. Beware of the extra costs for installation though. Home improvement stores also offer jacuzzi parts if the need arises as well. But, make sure to keep your warranty and guarantees safe since these parts will undoubtedly be expensive if they are not covered by your policy.
Jacuzzi's aren't just found in your local jacuzzi spas anymore. Jacuzzi's have long been known for the way the relax and help us unwind. Having one at home will not only help you unwind from a long day, but it gives you an extra measure of privacy not found in jacuzzi spas. While this investment can be costly, it can have great long term benefits for the owner. It is an investment in your home as well as your health. And the process is not that difficult in finding one that suits your needs.
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Choosing The Correct Metal Roofing Materials
Any homeowner that has decided to install a metal roof on his or her home will have only actually made the first step towards achieving a brand new roof on his or her home. The next step is completely baffling! There are literally hundreds of choices of metal roofing materials available and there are so many factors to take into consideration before you are fully able to make that choice. The different metal roofing materials all suit different types of roof but only experts will know which ones to choose first time. Then there is the quality and cost of the metal roofing materials... Confused already? Let me make it simple for you!
Regardless what metal roofing materials you choose, a good metal roof can really enhance your home. It can provide you with a longevity and hassle-free existence that you never thought possible before
A Quick Guide To Metal Roofing Materials
You will find that there are five different metal roofing materials for you to choose from when you want a metal roof, but the final choice is down to personal preference. The first of the metal roofing materials is steel. It is the heaviest of the five materials but also the most sturdy so you know that you can absolutely rely on it to protect your home. Any umber of finishes and treatments can be applied to it so that it will not corrode or rust. It is these treatments and finishes that make this metal roofing material attractive because it can otherwise be quite dull. Whilst treatments can ensure longevity and aesthetic beauty, it is stainless steel that will give the best overall appeal because it will not naturally rust. It is more expensive than regular steel though.
However steel is not the most popular of the metal roofing materials. Instead, that honour goes to aluminium. It is extremely lightweight and resists corrosion and oxidation but does not naturally have an aesthetic appeal so also need to be treated to achieve the beauty that every unique roof should have.
Copper is the fourth of the metal roofing materials that you can choose from. It is the most expensive of the options, but that is mainly because it is recognised as the best as far as durability is concerned. . It is the softest of the metal roofing materials and so will bend to suit the contours of your roof with ease. As a result, it is simple to install and is not prone to rusting. Again, copper has to be treated in order to protect it from the effects of the sun. It will only retains it gorgeous red sheen for a few years before turning green, but a good treatment will ensure that there is no change of colour for years to come.
There are factors that will affect your choice of metal roofing materials but it usually boils down to what you can afford. There are alloys available but they generally work out expensive because they take the best properties for roofing from each of the metals in their pure form. However, do not rush your decision and if you cannot afford the one you want then wait until you can. It is a big investment so choose wisely.
Regardless what metal roofing materials you choose, a good metal roof can really enhance your home. It can provide you with a longevity and hassle-free existence that you never thought possible before
A Quick Guide To Metal Roofing Materials
You will find that there are five different metal roofing materials for you to choose from when you want a metal roof, but the final choice is down to personal preference. The first of the metal roofing materials is steel. It is the heaviest of the five materials but also the most sturdy so you know that you can absolutely rely on it to protect your home. Any umber of finishes and treatments can be applied to it so that it will not corrode or rust. It is these treatments and finishes that make this metal roofing material attractive because it can otherwise be quite dull. Whilst treatments can ensure longevity and aesthetic beauty, it is stainless steel that will give the best overall appeal because it will not naturally rust. It is more expensive than regular steel though.
However steel is not the most popular of the metal roofing materials. Instead, that honour goes to aluminium. It is extremely lightweight and resists corrosion and oxidation but does not naturally have an aesthetic appeal so also need to be treated to achieve the beauty that every unique roof should have.
Copper is the fourth of the metal roofing materials that you can choose from. It is the most expensive of the options, but that is mainly because it is recognised as the best as far as durability is concerned. . It is the softest of the metal roofing materials and so will bend to suit the contours of your roof with ease. As a result, it is simple to install and is not prone to rusting. Again, copper has to be treated in order to protect it from the effects of the sun. It will only retains it gorgeous red sheen for a few years before turning green, but a good treatment will ensure that there is no change of colour for years to come.
There are factors that will affect your choice of metal roofing materials but it usually boils down to what you can afford. There are alloys available but they generally work out expensive because they take the best properties for roofing from each of the metals in their pure form. However, do not rush your decision and if you cannot afford the one you want then wait until you can. It is a big investment so choose wisely.
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Be careful when buying a Walk-In Bathtub!
Walk-in Bathtubs have been extremely popular in Great Britain, Europe and the Far East for almost three decades. Bathtubs with doors were introduced in the US 6 or 7 years ago, and public demand has increased exponentially since then. Nonetheless, in this country the Walk In Bathtub industry still caters to what most would call a "niche" market - the elderly and the physically challenged.Primarily because of this very specific potential client base and still limited market awareness Walk-In Bathtubs are generally not available in stores or showrooms, but must instead be purchased by visiting a website or having a "representative" come to your house.
Unfortunately, this creates opportunity for the unscrupulous to take advantage of those who might have no valid frame of reference/comparison and therefore be gullible and often, vulnerable.
If you call a Walk In Bathtub Company and they refuse to give you any price information on the phone, hang up!
In home "representaive" or Predator vs Prey
Prices for most big-ticket items sold by most in-home salespeople are arbitrary. Whatever they think they can get, they ask for. If that doesn't work, they have a whole repertoire of reasons it just so happens they can actually offer you a better price/deep discount i.e. models left over from a trade/home show, uncrated, never used; another customer ordered the wrong bathtub door model; you live out of the way, buy today so a return trip is not necessary...etc. All rehearsed lies. The price tag for a WalkIn tub at the end of this sales pitch can be up to $15,000 to $30,000.
There are, of course, exceptions to every rule, and we assume there are some Walk-In Bathtub companies that do employ ethical representatives who care as much about your needs as they do about their own bank account....
The Walk In Bathtub Store has a strict one price for all policy.We sell the best products for the best price, and we do not play dishonest games.
On our "WILL IT FIT?" page, we have provided step-by-step instructions on what you (or a friend, companion, relative) will need to measure and how to do so. Armed with this information, and knowledge of your personal needs and desires, we can easily assist you in determining which of our Walk-In bathtubs will work best for you in your house without sending a commissioned salesperson to call.
We are also happy to accept digital pictures by e-mail, or photos by mail to enable us to advise you.If you absolutely, positively have to see, feel and touch something before you buy it, you are more than welcome to come to our showroom in beautiful downtown Mount Dora, FL.
You will find a map of our location, and discover what a wonderful place Mount Dora would be to visit by going to the "Our Location" page.
Guarantees and Warranties
It is extremely important that you ask the company from which you are considering buying a Walk-In Bathtub who actually issues the guarantee/warranty!!!Some distributors and retailers imply or actually state they are the manufacturer of the bathtub when they are not. Verify this information. Ask lots of questions.Additionally, many on-line vendors advertise long guarantees on Walk In Bathtubs that are the retailer/vendor’s own guarantees NOT the manufacturer’s. The actual manufacturer’s guarantee is usually substantially shorter in duration than that being advertised by the retailer. For example, one of the best known websites advertises a "Standard 5 Year Manufacturer's Warranty on the Tub" on three of the models it carries, when in reality, the manufacturer's warranty is only ONE year.Unfortunately, if you have a problem, the manufacturer will NOT honor the retail merchant’s guarantee.
Also, in most cases, if you need parts or have other issues that need to be addressed during the actual manufacturer’s guarantee time frame and that manufacturer is in China or England, it can take a very long time, sometimes months, to get satisfaction from overseas.
Purchasing products made in North America where manufacturers are compelled to adhere to certain standards and can be legally held accountable is much more prudent than purchasing imports and supports the U.S. Economy.
Inaccurate and Misleading Walk-In Bathtub Measurements
Make absolutely sure you question the accuracy of the dimensions advertised for the Walk-In Bathtubs you are discussing! The seller of the bathtubs mentioned above which misrepresents manufacturer's guarantees also uses great license in describing tub height, door width and other dimensions. This company indicates 42.5’’ & 38.5" in height for their “best” models. In actuality, the tubs are 41” & 37” high with a very small “headrest” on the seat that is 1.5” taller than the rest of the tub. Their website proclaims the door is 18” wide. Again, not true. Only the top of the door where there is a wider notch is 18”, the bottom of the door is only 14” in width. Worst of all, the step-up into the tub (threshold) is advertised as being "...as low as 6"..." but is actually EIGHT inches high!!!
There is nothing wrong with the real dimensions of these Walk-In Bathtubs, but in our opinion, definitely something wrong with misrepresentation. Unfortunately, many on-line Walk In Bathtub companies engage in these deceptive sales tactics. Be careful. Make sure that before you spend thousands of dollars you have the facts!
Quality Control/Getting your Walk-In Bathtub with all of the correct parts and in working condition!
Many distributors warehouse the products they carry that are manufactured overseas.Many distributors never open the crates upon arrival from thousands of miles away, or prior to shipment to the retail customer. In other words, there is a good chance the company from whom you buy your Walk In Bathtub MAY HAVE NEVER OPENED THE CRATE THE WALK-IN BATHTUB WAS SHIPPED IN, NEVER SEEN THE CONTENTS OF THE CRATE, and may HAVE NO IDEA WHETHER THE WALK IN BATHTUB YOU ARE BUYING IS DAMAGED, OR PROPERLY EQUIPPED WITH ALL OF IT’S PARTS!!!!Ask the salesman if your Walk-In Bathtub will be opened and inspected prior to shipment, and if so, by whom.
A Walk-In Bathtub can literally change the way one feels physically and enable you to retain or regain independence in your own home. Just make sure you don't fall victim to shady sales tactics, and end up with a poor quality product, and a dramtically depeleted wallet!
Unfortunately, this creates opportunity for the unscrupulous to take advantage of those who might have no valid frame of reference/comparison and therefore be gullible and often, vulnerable.
If you call a Walk In Bathtub Company and they refuse to give you any price information on the phone, hang up!
In home "representaive" or Predator vs Prey
Prices for most big-ticket items sold by most in-home salespeople are arbitrary. Whatever they think they can get, they ask for. If that doesn't work, they have a whole repertoire of reasons it just so happens they can actually offer you a better price/deep discount i.e. models left over from a trade/home show, uncrated, never used; another customer ordered the wrong bathtub door model; you live out of the way, buy today so a return trip is not necessary...etc. All rehearsed lies. The price tag for a WalkIn tub at the end of this sales pitch can be up to $15,000 to $30,000.
There are, of course, exceptions to every rule, and we assume there are some Walk-In Bathtub companies that do employ ethical representatives who care as much about your needs as they do about their own bank account....
The Walk In Bathtub Store has a strict one price for all policy.We sell the best products for the best price, and we do not play dishonest games.
On our "WILL IT FIT?" page, we have provided step-by-step instructions on what you (or a friend, companion, relative) will need to measure and how to do so. Armed with this information, and knowledge of your personal needs and desires, we can easily assist you in determining which of our Walk-In bathtubs will work best for you in your house without sending a commissioned salesperson to call.
We are also happy to accept digital pictures by e-mail, or photos by mail to enable us to advise you.If you absolutely, positively have to see, feel and touch something before you buy it, you are more than welcome to come to our showroom in beautiful downtown Mount Dora, FL.
You will find a map of our location, and discover what a wonderful place Mount Dora would be to visit by going to the "Our Location" page.
Guarantees and Warranties
It is extremely important that you ask the company from which you are considering buying a Walk-In Bathtub who actually issues the guarantee/warranty!!!Some distributors and retailers imply or actually state they are the manufacturer of the bathtub when they are not. Verify this information. Ask lots of questions.Additionally, many on-line vendors advertise long guarantees on Walk In Bathtubs that are the retailer/vendor’s own guarantees NOT the manufacturer’s. The actual manufacturer’s guarantee is usually substantially shorter in duration than that being advertised by the retailer. For example, one of the best known websites advertises a "Standard 5 Year Manufacturer's Warranty on the Tub" on three of the models it carries, when in reality, the manufacturer's warranty is only ONE year.Unfortunately, if you have a problem, the manufacturer will NOT honor the retail merchant’s guarantee.
Also, in most cases, if you need parts or have other issues that need to be addressed during the actual manufacturer’s guarantee time frame and that manufacturer is in China or England, it can take a very long time, sometimes months, to get satisfaction from overseas.
Purchasing products made in North America where manufacturers are compelled to adhere to certain standards and can be legally held accountable is much more prudent than purchasing imports and supports the U.S. Economy.
Inaccurate and Misleading Walk-In Bathtub Measurements
Make absolutely sure you question the accuracy of the dimensions advertised for the Walk-In Bathtubs you are discussing! The seller of the bathtubs mentioned above which misrepresents manufacturer's guarantees also uses great license in describing tub height, door width and other dimensions. This company indicates 42.5’’ & 38.5" in height for their “best” models. In actuality, the tubs are 41” & 37” high with a very small “headrest” on the seat that is 1.5” taller than the rest of the tub. Their website proclaims the door is 18” wide. Again, not true. Only the top of the door where there is a wider notch is 18”, the bottom of the door is only 14” in width. Worst of all, the step-up into the tub (threshold) is advertised as being "...as low as 6"..." but is actually EIGHT inches high!!!
There is nothing wrong with the real dimensions of these Walk-In Bathtubs, but in our opinion, definitely something wrong with misrepresentation. Unfortunately, many on-line Walk In Bathtub companies engage in these deceptive sales tactics. Be careful. Make sure that before you spend thousands of dollars you have the facts!
Quality Control/Getting your Walk-In Bathtub with all of the correct parts and in working condition!
Many distributors warehouse the products they carry that are manufactured overseas.Many distributors never open the crates upon arrival from thousands of miles away, or prior to shipment to the retail customer. In other words, there is a good chance the company from whom you buy your Walk In Bathtub MAY HAVE NEVER OPENED THE CRATE THE WALK-IN BATHTUB WAS SHIPPED IN, NEVER SEEN THE CONTENTS OF THE CRATE, and may HAVE NO IDEA WHETHER THE WALK IN BATHTUB YOU ARE BUYING IS DAMAGED, OR PROPERLY EQUIPPED WITH ALL OF IT’S PARTS!!!!Ask the salesman if your Walk-In Bathtub will be opened and inspected prior to shipment, and if so, by whom.
A Walk-In Bathtub can literally change the way one feels physically and enable you to retain or regain independence in your own home. Just make sure you don't fall victim to shady sales tactics, and end up with a poor quality product, and a dramtically depeleted wallet!
Monday, June 18, 2007
Planning For Your Home Improvement
Home improvement involves a great deal of planning. There are many things one needs to prepare for like goals, a budget and a general outline of how you want things to look and work in the end. Whether it's an actual home improvement or a simple repair, planning ahead can save you a great deal of time, money and especially grief, in the end.
Goals Having goals means a lot of things. In the case of home improvement, first, it's having a clear idea of what's wrong. Second, how you want something to look, and why. For example, are your eavestroughs forever getting clogged and rusting? Does the roof look a hundred years older than the house itself? Water damage finally showing up on the ceiling and/or walls after the last rain storm?
Once you've grasped the source of your angst, you can start thinking about what you want done about it. New eavestroughs or a roof? A new coat of paint? Different shelves? Brainstorming and imagination need only be dictated by function. For instance, the purpose of the eavestroughs. Alternatively, maybe it's not the eavestroughs but the dowspouts. Irrespective of your goals, this is also when you need to consider how much you can afford to spend comes into play.
A Budget Establishing a realistic budget for any home improvement comes with an understanding what needs to be done. Naturally, it's important not to exceed what you can afford to do or have done. This is why shopping around for prices will give you a better understanding of what's possible within your given budget. In other words, it's time to do some homework.
Consequently, your home improvement budget may need to change to reflect your goals. Otherwise, a consideration of what less costly options are available will be necessary. Do you really need to hire someone to do your roof? Or is it a small enough job that you could do it yourself? Is it absolutely necessary to use a particular brand of material for your upgrade, when a less expensive, quality substitute exists? On the other hand, sometimes it's better to hire a professional. After all, the last thing you'd want to have happen is a home disaster that could be even more costly to fix. In other words, balance when and where you want to save that extra dollar.
An Outline For Action If you've done your homework - shopping around for pricing - at this point, you should have gained some idea of how big - or small - your home improvement will be. Whether it will take anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks. In addition, you'll have discussed some of this if a contractor is to be involved.
This is when you need to set a course of action for yourself. What you want to achieve, under a particular budget, within a certain time frame. The bigger the project, the more critical this becomes. The reason being is that you may need to plan for any potential inconveniences that may occur along the way. No electricty for a day? Or do you simply need to get an old pair of clothes to work in for setting up a new downspout?
In the end, whatever you plan and however you plan to do it, it's always wise to plan ahead with your home improvement.
Goals Having goals means a lot of things. In the case of home improvement, first, it's having a clear idea of what's wrong. Second, how you want something to look, and why. For example, are your eavestroughs forever getting clogged and rusting? Does the roof look a hundred years older than the house itself? Water damage finally showing up on the ceiling and/or walls after the last rain storm?
Once you've grasped the source of your angst, you can start thinking about what you want done about it. New eavestroughs or a roof? A new coat of paint? Different shelves? Brainstorming and imagination need only be dictated by function. For instance, the purpose of the eavestroughs. Alternatively, maybe it's not the eavestroughs but the dowspouts. Irrespective of your goals, this is also when you need to consider how much you can afford to spend comes into play.
A Budget Establishing a realistic budget for any home improvement comes with an understanding what needs to be done. Naturally, it's important not to exceed what you can afford to do or have done. This is why shopping around for prices will give you a better understanding of what's possible within your given budget. In other words, it's time to do some homework.
Consequently, your home improvement budget may need to change to reflect your goals. Otherwise, a consideration of what less costly options are available will be necessary. Do you really need to hire someone to do your roof? Or is it a small enough job that you could do it yourself? Is it absolutely necessary to use a particular brand of material for your upgrade, when a less expensive, quality substitute exists? On the other hand, sometimes it's better to hire a professional. After all, the last thing you'd want to have happen is a home disaster that could be even more costly to fix. In other words, balance when and where you want to save that extra dollar.
An Outline For Action If you've done your homework - shopping around for pricing - at this point, you should have gained some idea of how big - or small - your home improvement will be. Whether it will take anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks. In addition, you'll have discussed some of this if a contractor is to be involved.
This is when you need to set a course of action for yourself. What you want to achieve, under a particular budget, within a certain time frame. The bigger the project, the more critical this becomes. The reason being is that you may need to plan for any potential inconveniences that may occur along the way. No electricty for a day? Or do you simply need to get an old pair of clothes to work in for setting up a new downspout?
In the end, whatever you plan and however you plan to do it, it's always wise to plan ahead with your home improvement.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
How to Determine What A Bathroom Remodel Will Cost
Before beginning a bathroom remodeling project you need to decide two things. What will it cost? How will you finance it?
Cost for a bathroom remodeling varies depending on the size of the remodel and the materials and fixtures you select, and whether you do most of the work yourself or decide to contract the job out.
A remodel on a do-it-yourself basis usually runs between $5000 and $9000. If you contract it out the average cost runs $10,000 to 20,000. But, of course, these are only general estimates since each job is a different size, and the selection of materials can vary widely.
The first thing to determine is how much of a remodel you need or want. Bathroom fixtures are very durable if cared for, and possibly some of them don't need replacing.
What is the source of dissatisfaction with your current bathroom? Does it simply need some updating, or is it really beyond salvaging, and you need a whole fresh start?
Begin to consider what you want in your new bathroom. Do you want a seperate tub and shower, or a shower only? If you want both as seperate units, will you have enough space? Shower-tub combinations are not as popular as they once were, but if you want both and you are limited for space it is a practical solution.
If the cabinets in your bathroom are wood and showing some signs of wear, they can possibly be reclaimed by putting in a little sweat equity and sanding them down and adding a colored stain. There are many stains other than just wood stains. You may be able to refinish both your vanity base and any other cabinets in your bath and replace the knobs and drawer handles and give it a whole new look. Then all you need is a new vanity top.
Tile, Wood Laminate, and vinyl are popular for bathroom floors
Tile is very durable and you can save a bundle if you install it yourself. It isn't difficult to install if you have good instructions and follow them. Allow time for each process and know what materials and tools you need before starting the job.
Wood laminate is popular, and one advantage is that it also is fairly easy to install, and once it is down, the job is done since it is a finished product. Make sure your building supply knows it is to be installed in a bathroom, and follow the manufacturer's instructions to the letter, so you don't void the warranty. Keep in mind that bathrooms are moist environments.
Vinyl is also very popular. It is easy to clean, easy on the feet and holds up well in the moist environment of a bathroom. Prices vary widely from inexpensive to pretty pricey.
Decide what extra bathroom amenities or accessories you want
There are lots of extras for bathrooms these days. Showers can have massaging jets, sound systems, phones, steam and more. There are heating grids that can be installed under your flooring, towel warmers and many other extras.
Do some thorough shopping, make some choices, decide if you can do all or some of the work yourself, and you will have the information you need to determine what a bathroom remodel will cost.
I find it is wise once you have a figure in mind that you add 20% so you have some leeway in case a situation arises you didn't count on. If it turns out you don't need the extra money, maybe you can use it elsewhere in your household, or if you borrowed the money, you can apply it on the loan, but things often do happen that you don't expect when you are remodeling a bathroom so it's better to be prepared.
Cost for a bathroom remodeling varies depending on the size of the remodel and the materials and fixtures you select, and whether you do most of the work yourself or decide to contract the job out.
A remodel on a do-it-yourself basis usually runs between $5000 and $9000. If you contract it out the average cost runs $10,000 to 20,000. But, of course, these are only general estimates since each job is a different size, and the selection of materials can vary widely.
The first thing to determine is how much of a remodel you need or want. Bathroom fixtures are very durable if cared for, and possibly some of them don't need replacing.
What is the source of dissatisfaction with your current bathroom? Does it simply need some updating, or is it really beyond salvaging, and you need a whole fresh start?
Begin to consider what you want in your new bathroom. Do you want a seperate tub and shower, or a shower only? If you want both as seperate units, will you have enough space? Shower-tub combinations are not as popular as they once were, but if you want both and you are limited for space it is a practical solution.
If the cabinets in your bathroom are wood and showing some signs of wear, they can possibly be reclaimed by putting in a little sweat equity and sanding them down and adding a colored stain. There are many stains other than just wood stains. You may be able to refinish both your vanity base and any other cabinets in your bath and replace the knobs and drawer handles and give it a whole new look. Then all you need is a new vanity top.
Tile, Wood Laminate, and vinyl are popular for bathroom floors
Tile is very durable and you can save a bundle if you install it yourself. It isn't difficult to install if you have good instructions and follow them. Allow time for each process and know what materials and tools you need before starting the job.
Wood laminate is popular, and one advantage is that it also is fairly easy to install, and once it is down, the job is done since it is a finished product. Make sure your building supply knows it is to be installed in a bathroom, and follow the manufacturer's instructions to the letter, so you don't void the warranty. Keep in mind that bathrooms are moist environments.
Vinyl is also very popular. It is easy to clean, easy on the feet and holds up well in the moist environment of a bathroom. Prices vary widely from inexpensive to pretty pricey.
Decide what extra bathroom amenities or accessories you want
There are lots of extras for bathrooms these days. Showers can have massaging jets, sound systems, phones, steam and more. There are heating grids that can be installed under your flooring, towel warmers and many other extras.
Do some thorough shopping, make some choices, decide if you can do all or some of the work yourself, and you will have the information you need to determine what a bathroom remodel will cost.
I find it is wise once you have a figure in mind that you add 20% so you have some leeway in case a situation arises you didn't count on. If it turns out you don't need the extra money, maybe you can use it elsewhere in your household, or if you borrowed the money, you can apply it on the loan, but things often do happen that you don't expect when you are remodeling a bathroom so it's better to be prepared.
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Bedroom Hidden TV Cabinet
Finding the right furniture sometimes requires a lot of research. Especially when you are trying to find a piece for your bedroom that you want to fit seamlessly into your existing decor.
One household item that has found it's way into the bedroom is the TV. Often it's left on even after we are sound asleep. But when you want it hidden from sight then you really are in need of a bedroom hidden TV cabinet.
There are two different type of bedroom hidden TV cabinets that we will discuss. The main difference between the two bedroom hidden TV cabinet is the type of doors that it uses.
One type of door swings open from the center and the doors come to rest flat against the outside of the cabinet. This has it's advantages in that there is no blockage at all by the doors on the cabinet. The disadvantage of this type of bedroom hidden TV cabinet is that it needs to have ample room on both sides of the unit or else the doors will be stopped by a wall.
The other type of bedroom hidden TV cabinet is one with pocket type doors. The doors open 90° to the unit and then slide inside the unit on either side of the TV. This has it's advantages because you do not need any additional wallspace to place your bedroom hidden TV cabinet since the doors go inside the unit. However, the doors may stick out a bit past the front of the cabinet, blocking the view of the TV to an extent if it is viewed from an extreme angle. The way to get around this is to find a bedroom hidden TV cabinet with pocket doors and a sliding shelf that pulls the TV out in front of the face of the cabinet to allow full viewing.
One household item that has found it's way into the bedroom is the TV. Often it's left on even after we are sound asleep. But when you want it hidden from sight then you really are in need of a bedroom hidden TV cabinet.
There are two different type of bedroom hidden TV cabinets that we will discuss. The main difference between the two bedroom hidden TV cabinet is the type of doors that it uses.
One type of door swings open from the center and the doors come to rest flat against the outside of the cabinet. This has it's advantages in that there is no blockage at all by the doors on the cabinet. The disadvantage of this type of bedroom hidden TV cabinet is that it needs to have ample room on both sides of the unit or else the doors will be stopped by a wall.
The other type of bedroom hidden TV cabinet is one with pocket type doors. The doors open 90° to the unit and then slide inside the unit on either side of the TV. This has it's advantages because you do not need any additional wallspace to place your bedroom hidden TV cabinet since the doors go inside the unit. However, the doors may stick out a bit past the front of the cabinet, blocking the view of the TV to an extent if it is viewed from an extreme angle. The way to get around this is to find a bedroom hidden TV cabinet with pocket doors and a sliding shelf that pulls the TV out in front of the face of the cabinet to allow full viewing.
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Is it Time to Refinish Your Hardwood Floor?
How do you know when the time is right to refinish your hardwood floors? Hardwood floors tend to be quite durable and the stains long lasting. There are, of course, places in high traffic areas that will begin to show signs of wear long before the floors have worn out their beauty of usefulness. With that in mind, how do you know when the time is right for refinishing?
Refinishing hardwood floors doesn’t have to be the stuff that nightmares are made of. In fact, if at all possible this is the kind of chore you should really entrust to professionals (this way someone else is responsible if something gets messed up). Another reason to entrust this to professionals is that they have access to the best of power tools for this specific job. And using the right tools is sometimes all the difference in the world. While it wouldn’t be cost effective for the average home owner to purchase these tools for a one time project, a professional floor person would often have cause to use these tools.
So what is the difference between a floor that simply needs to be cleaned and one that needs to be completely refinished? One way to do this is to go to one of the high traffic run down areas of your floor and spill a few drops of liquid onto the floor. If the liquid beads up there is still some life left in your original finish and you are not quite ready for a major overhaul. If on the other hand, the wood soaks the water right up, it is time to refinish.
One of the great things about refinishing is that you can choose to go lighter or darker than before or even to use the exact same finish. If you’re looking for a way to change the look of a room, changing the finish of your floors is definitely a way to make a large impact on a room. Keep in mind that stain samples will look different when they are on the entire floor and that different stains react differently to different hardwoods, you definitely want to choose a stain that is compatible to the hardwoods of your floors. The age of your floor also has a tremendous impact on how the stain will look when the floor is finished. A good place to try stain samples is the floorboard of a closet.
Hardwood flooring comes in many different stains and colors, the more popular stain options include stains that appear natural, light stains that don’t significantly altar the look of the wood, medium stains, which bring out a darker tint in the grain of the wood, and dark stains, which provide a rich, velvety feel to the floor.
If you haven’t something that reaches out and grabs you, you can also go to a local hardware store and have a stain custom blended for your floors. You can get really creative for these stains and have a lot of fun in the process, but remember this is your home and you have to live with the floors once they are finished.
Refinishing hardwood floors doesn’t have to be the stuff that nightmares are made of. In fact, if at all possible this is the kind of chore you should really entrust to professionals (this way someone else is responsible if something gets messed up). Another reason to entrust this to professionals is that they have access to the best of power tools for this specific job. And using the right tools is sometimes all the difference in the world. While it wouldn’t be cost effective for the average home owner to purchase these tools for a one time project, a professional floor person would often have cause to use these tools.
So what is the difference between a floor that simply needs to be cleaned and one that needs to be completely refinished? One way to do this is to go to one of the high traffic run down areas of your floor and spill a few drops of liquid onto the floor. If the liquid beads up there is still some life left in your original finish and you are not quite ready for a major overhaul. If on the other hand, the wood soaks the water right up, it is time to refinish.
One of the great things about refinishing is that you can choose to go lighter or darker than before or even to use the exact same finish. If you’re looking for a way to change the look of a room, changing the finish of your floors is definitely a way to make a large impact on a room. Keep in mind that stain samples will look different when they are on the entire floor and that different stains react differently to different hardwoods, you definitely want to choose a stain that is compatible to the hardwoods of your floors. The age of your floor also has a tremendous impact on how the stain will look when the floor is finished. A good place to try stain samples is the floorboard of a closet.
Hardwood flooring comes in many different stains and colors, the more popular stain options include stains that appear natural, light stains that don’t significantly altar the look of the wood, medium stains, which bring out a darker tint in the grain of the wood, and dark stains, which provide a rich, velvety feel to the floor.
If you haven’t something that reaches out and grabs you, you can also go to a local hardware store and have a stain custom blended for your floors. You can get really creative for these stains and have a lot of fun in the process, but remember this is your home and you have to live with the floors once they are finished.
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
Choosing The Right Portable Lawn Sprinkler For Your Lawn
You know that watering your lawn is an important part of lawn care but you have limited time to do it. Other than hiring someone to do it for you, you can set up a portable sprinkler to do the job for you.
A portable sprinkler is particularly useful if you have a small lawn since it can be chore to move it around by hand for a large lawn. If you live in an area with reasonable amount of rainfall, the portable sprinkler can be use to supplement rainfall when the occasional drought period arise.
You can shop for a portable sprinkler easily in any well-stocked nursery or hardware store. Review the information on the sprinkler box. It should indicate the size and shape of the area it can cover.
There are many designs for portable sprinkler and you should evaluate carefully which one will meet your needs. Some models allow you to cover odd-shaped lawn while other may have a tractor system that can move along the water hose.
After you purchase your portable sprinkler, you will want to do a test to see how it performs. In particular you want to know how much water it is using to cover your lawn. First, place the portable sprinkler at the center of your lawn and turn it on for about ten seconds. You want to know exactly how much area it can cover. After ten seconds, turn the portable sprinkler off and place about seven or eight empty cups in the area covered by the portable sprinkler. Turn on the portable sprinkler again and leave it running for ten minutes.
After ten minutes, turn off the portable sprinkler and check the amount of water for each cup. The amount in each cup will vary, as portable sprinklers tend to have uneven water distribution. However, the variation should not be more than 0.25 inch. You will use the cup that has the least amount of water for your estimation. Lets assume that there is 0.2 inch of water in the cup with the least amount of water. If you want to apply 0.5 inch of water, you will have to leave the portable sprinkler running for 25 minutes.
A good hose is also vital for your portable sprinkler to work efficiently. A good hose will roll up easily in any weather and does not kink or crack. A cheap hose will give you more maintenance headaches down the road as it tend to kink and crack after using it for some times. You will also waste precious water due to leakage from the cheap hose.
It is also advisable to hook up a timer between your faucet and your hose. You simply set up the timer and it will shut off the sprinkler automatically after the set amount of time has elapsed. This will prevent any wastage of water.
Once you have everything set up properly, you will want to monitor the response of your lawn and adjust the water application accordingly. The portable sprinkler may not cover a few spots in your lawn and you will have to do the watering manually for these spots. Nevertheless, with the introduction of a portable sprinkler, the time you spent watering your lawn will be dramatically reduced and you can have more time to relax and do the things you want to do.
A portable sprinkler is particularly useful if you have a small lawn since it can be chore to move it around by hand for a large lawn. If you live in an area with reasonable amount of rainfall, the portable sprinkler can be use to supplement rainfall when the occasional drought period arise.
You can shop for a portable sprinkler easily in any well-stocked nursery or hardware store. Review the information on the sprinkler box. It should indicate the size and shape of the area it can cover.
There are many designs for portable sprinkler and you should evaluate carefully which one will meet your needs. Some models allow you to cover odd-shaped lawn while other may have a tractor system that can move along the water hose.
After you purchase your portable sprinkler, you will want to do a test to see how it performs. In particular you want to know how much water it is using to cover your lawn. First, place the portable sprinkler at the center of your lawn and turn it on for about ten seconds. You want to know exactly how much area it can cover. After ten seconds, turn the portable sprinkler off and place about seven or eight empty cups in the area covered by the portable sprinkler. Turn on the portable sprinkler again and leave it running for ten minutes.
After ten minutes, turn off the portable sprinkler and check the amount of water for each cup. The amount in each cup will vary, as portable sprinklers tend to have uneven water distribution. However, the variation should not be more than 0.25 inch. You will use the cup that has the least amount of water for your estimation. Lets assume that there is 0.2 inch of water in the cup with the least amount of water. If you want to apply 0.5 inch of water, you will have to leave the portable sprinkler running for 25 minutes.
A good hose is also vital for your portable sprinkler to work efficiently. A good hose will roll up easily in any weather and does not kink or crack. A cheap hose will give you more maintenance headaches down the road as it tend to kink and crack after using it for some times. You will also waste precious water due to leakage from the cheap hose.
It is also advisable to hook up a timer between your faucet and your hose. You simply set up the timer and it will shut off the sprinkler automatically after the set amount of time has elapsed. This will prevent any wastage of water.
Once you have everything set up properly, you will want to monitor the response of your lawn and adjust the water application accordingly. The portable sprinkler may not cover a few spots in your lawn and you will have to do the watering manually for these spots. Nevertheless, with the introduction of a portable sprinkler, the time you spent watering your lawn will be dramatically reduced and you can have more time to relax and do the things you want to do.
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