Home remodeling can be done for function or just because the house needs a new look, or a combination of the two. The focus of home remodeling for most homeowners is usually the kitchen or the bathrooms because those are the rooms that add the most value to a home and can become outdated more quickly. Just as in fashion, home décor goes through fads, and typically if bathrooms and kitchens have not been remodeled for ten years or more, it's obvious! Home remodeling can be done for function or just because the house needs a new look, or a combination of the two. The focus of home remodeling for most homeowners is usually the kitchen or the bathrooms because those are the rooms that add the most value to a home and can become outdated more quickly. Just as in fashion, home décor goes through fads, and typically if bathrooms and kitchens have not been remodeled for ten years or more, it's obvious! How many times have we heard the jokes about the ambitious do-it-yourself homeowner who starts project after project, only to stop in the middle and not finish any one of them? Usually the weekend warrior runs out of time, or perhaps money, or maybe he or she realizes that much more has been bitten off than can possibly be chewed. The results are evident - half-finished paint jobs that leave some walls in one color while others sport another; flooring has been exposed but never finished; kitchen cabinets are leaning against the wall yet will not be anchored in for weeks or perhaps months. Sadly, many a homeowner neglected to receive some sound remodeling tips prior to embarking on their tasks. To this end, here are some tips and tricks that will you to get off to a good start, before you actually pick up your checkbook or your tools! One of the first remodeling tips that are usually neglected is the fact that it should have a general appeal. Granted, this may be common sense, yet it is astounding how many homeowners add or take away from their homes in such a way that a future sale is compromised. While the homeowner may think that a purple bathroom with yellow handprints is just darling, the potential buyer who tours the house two years down the line will probably wrinkle his nose at this décor faux pas. In the same way, if you decide to add on to your home, do it with an eye on the investment potential. In other words, do not do a half-fast job yourself, but instead pull the proper permits and hire licensed contractors to at least take a look before the building inspector stops by. Experts have a tool box full of different small bathroom remodeling ideas, but most can be grouped into two categories: creating light and creating visual space. The illusions of space and light complement each other and expand a small space. Anyone who has tried to apply makeup in a small dark room knows how important light is, and it's created in a variety of ways, both natural and artificial. Natural light comes from windows, skylights, and any other opening that allows sun into the space. Whenever possible, windows should be left uncovered or only lightly covered by a filmy white or light-colored window covering. Paint colors from the cool end of the color spectrum reflect and enhance natural light, as do mirrors and light-colored flooring. Even a light-colored, inexpensive rug used to cover a dark floor can brighten up a space. Artificial light, originating from ceiling lights, wall sconces or lamps, can also brighten a space when employed artfully. Recessed lighting, which creates the illusion of space as well as light, could also be a viable option for you. Just be sure to use artificial light that is bright without being oppressive. Look in your home and garden store for special bulbs that can be used to effectively diffuse the light. Other remodeling tips include the popularity versus functionality of a desired item, as well as value for the items. For example, just because recessed lighting is the latest fad, it may not be the lighting of choice for the bathroom where it may create dark spots and shade in undesirable areas. In addition to the foregoing, the value of the items purchased should remain intact, thus adding value to the home rather than simply costing money. Thereafter it is a smart idea to do a bit of research to see where home decorating trends are headed. Some old time favorites, such as ceiling tiles or even marble counter tops, are becoming a thing of the past, and if you are wondering about adding value to your home it is best to decorate with the market in mind. Naturally, not all homeowners will look to sell their properties within the next few years or until after the next remodel, yet this rule of thumb is certain to add value to the biggest investment you will ever make rather than just drain the bank account. Hopefully these remodeling tips have added a little bit of common sense to the mix of weekend projects and large undertakings, and the next time you contemplate a project, please be sure to think it through from beginning to end before your jump into the car to head to the local big box store for supplies! Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content #remodeling #house #bathroom #wall #paint

Most everyone wants a new kitchen but few people realize the work and inconvenience that goes into a kitchen remodel. A big remodel can take months and you won't have access to the room while the work is going on. While this can be a trying time, once you have your beautiful new kitchen in place it will be well worth it! Here's some tips to get you through the remodel and on to your new kitchen: 1. You will need to set up a temporary kitchen in another part of the house. Make sure it is a convenient location with have access to water and a space to keep food cold as well as a place to heat up meals. Sometimes portable appliances like a crock pot or electric frying pan and a small dorm fridge and microwave work good for a temporary arrangement if you will be replacing your old appliances. 2. Make sure you really think about how long the job will take. Most jobs run take longer than expected. This can be frustrating for everyone, so it's in your best interest to set a realistic date and that way you won't be disappointed. 3. Make sure you know what you are going to reuse. Whether you do some of the work yourself or hire it out make sure that it is very clear what things are going to be reused. The cabinets, counter tops and flooring can become damaged during a remodel and if you are planning on reusing them this can be a huge problem and expense. Remember to be careful around these reusable items. 4. Make sure you seal off the room properly so you don't get dust and debris all over the house. If you have hired someone to do the job, they will probably know just what to do but if you are doing it yourself, invest in some plastic sheeting and make sure you secure it around the doorways as good as possible. 5. Get everything out of the kitchen. Box up everything that will not be used in your temporary kitchen. Label the boxes and store them out of the way. 6. Remove anything that isn't nailed or screwed down. This includes drawers, lazy susans, spice racks, wall clocks, ornaments, etc. Place a protective cover over anything that must remain in place while you work. 7. Make arrangements for the removal of any refuse that may accumulate during the remodeling. if you must rent a dumpster, do so in plenty of time or have a pick up truck on hand for hauling the rubbish to the dump. if you plan to salvage the old cabinetry for a workshop or donation to a charitable cause, have a place ready for them to go as you take them out of your work area. 8. Think safety and remember to turn off all utilities before removing any major appliances, turn off all utilities. This can be done at the individual shut off valves for gas and water. If there are no shut off valves, you will have to turn off the main valve. The main gas valve is usually located near the gas meter. Remember that, once you turn off the gas to the whole house, ALL pilot lights will have to be relit before they will work again. Without careful planning you may find yourself without hot water when you're ready to clean up after a hard day's work. 9. In older homes, the wiring may have been modified over the years and it may not be clear which circuits or fuses control specific areas. If you are unsure, turn off the main power or get professional assistance. Never take a chance with electricity! In addition, tape over the breakers so they won't be turned on inadvertently. If you plan on upgrading your electrical system and adding new outlets and fixtures, it will be necessary to dismantle all existing outlets and fixtures. 10. Remove all light bulbs. Then, dismantle each fixture by using a screwdriver to unscrew the plate and the receptacle and pull the receptacle out of the box. Put wire nuts on any exposed wires for the interim. The bare copper wire is the ground and does not need to be capped. Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content #kitchen #design #remodel

Your kitchen is probably your most used room in the house. It's a central place at meal time. Guests tend to gather there when parties are thrown. If walls could talk, your kitchen walls would probably have a lot to say. That's why the way your kitchen looks, and the kitchen cabinet design is so important. Although cabinets can be made from many materials, they usually are made from wood. The stain that is used on them is applied in such a way as to best show off the grain of that particular wood. Some cabinets are very light golden yellow while others are dark - almost black - brown. Just about all of the woods that cabinets can be made out of can be stained light or dark, but each will take the stain color a little differently. A dark jacobean brown stain will look much different on an oak cabinet than it will on a maple cabinet. Many people today are choosing kitchen cabinet design that has lots of color. Many people like a brightly colored kitchen and choose the cabinets to match. You can get cabinets in candy apple red or silver gray to match your desire. Even older cabinets are getting an update these days with a splash of color. A new paint job can totally transform even the worst of cabinets. When thinking about your cabinets, don't forget about the hardware. Not only will you be look at them when you are in the kitchen, you will be using them to open your cabinets. You can get knobs and pulls in many styles. Handles and pulls might require you to put two screws into the cabinets. Long pulls and large cabinets work good Smaller cabinets might go great with smaller pulls or knobs. Pulls and handles are typically installed in the center of the drawer and the lower side of the door on the opening edge. Knobs are sometimes used instead of pulls. Knobs are attached to the cabinet with only 1 screw. They are small and usually mounted in the center of drawers and the upper opening side of cabinets on the ground, and lower opening side of cabinets above the countertops. Cabinet hardware comes in all different styles and colors. When you think of cabinet hardware, you might think of black, pewter or bright gold colored knobs. Newer options are also available. With todays modern kitchens, stainless steel is a popular choice. For those with particular tastes in say, roosters, there are even manufactures that will make hardware in the shapes of popular items to compliment the decorating that you have done in your kitchen. Having a good feeling in your kitchen is key. Your kitchen should be comfortable and appealing. And your kitchen cabinet design will add to that comfort when you've put your own finishing touches on them. Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content #kitchen #cabinet #design #hardware

The best hardwood floors are made with wood species that are readily available and very hard. Maple, cherry, oak, hickory, walnut, ash or bamboo are among the most common choices for residential flooring and each has its own properties. These extremely hard woods wear well and are more resistant to minor damage than other options. Hardwood flooring types Engineered hardwood flooring features a thin veneer layer of finished hardwood over a multi-layer core of plywood or high-density fiberboard Solid hardwood unfinished planks are 100% genuine hardwood and are installed without a factory finish Solid hardwood pre-finished planks are supplied with a multi-layer, baked-on factory finish, so they have a uniform appearance and a resilient finish Hand-scraped planks have a distinctive, rustic finish that works well in farmhouse and traditional-style homes Reclaimed hardwood flooring (often made of heartwood) bring a little history to your home Solid or Engineered? An engineered wood floor is constructed of layers of both hardwood and plywood, where solid hardwood is a solid piece of wood with no layers. Unlike imitation laminate or vinyl though engineered hardwood is the same in appearance and texture to traditional hardwood, but it will often be cheaper. Engineered flooring is often perceived as more stable than solid wood, but it can depend on the manufacturer, construction, quality characteristics and where the flooring is going to be installed. Some people choose solid hardwood flooring or engineered wood flooring based on aesthetics. They want wider boards, longer lengths or both. Another critical factor to deciding between solid or engineered is the type of home you live in, where your home is located, and your preferences as to the performance of your floor from season to season. It can also depend on what type of installation you are performing, and who will be completing the installation. How many flooring you need To determine how many square feet you need, measure the room(s) length by its width. Then multiply those numbers together and add waste factor. Usually, it's about 5÷7% for cutting and fitting waste. Please note, that waste factor also covers boards that you may not want to use due to heavy character or color variation. The recommended waste factor percentage can go higher, depending on the grade of wood flooring you purchase. If you purchase a lower grade of wood flooring or if you’re extremely fussy about using certain boards, then a higher 10÷15% waste factor may be needed. If you do not add a waste factor, you may not have enough flooring to fill the rooms you measured. If you're installing the flooring on a diagonal, it is recommended that you add 15% to your waste factor because of the larger angled waste pieces you cut off the boards at the walls. Most hardwood flooring sales in full cartons only. So, before ordering you will need to know how many square feet are in a carton. Tips: Before purchase hardwood flooring order Free Samples online! Before installation Wood floor installation requires a level subfloor and that your hardwood flooring is acclimated to the room’s humidity and temperature according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Allow wood flooring to acclimate for at least 3 days. Site-finished and engineered flooring requires more time to acclimate. For your first row, you’ll want the straightest planks, arranged with the tongue side facing the center of the room. Place spacers inside the expansion gap - the space between the wall and floor that allows the wood to expand from heat and humidity. Predrill nail holes 1/4 inch from the narrow side of the plank at 1/2 inch from the wall. Continue at 6-inch intervals for the length of each board. Installation Installing hardwood flooring is very much like putting a puzzle together. There are three main installation methods. These are nail-down, or staple-down installation, glue-down installation, and floating installation. It is assumed that you have a level subfloor that is wood for nail-down installation. Glue-down and floating installations can usually be done on both wood and concrete subfloors, but it must be level also. Most 3/4-inch solid hardwood flooring can be installed using nails or staples over a wood subfloor. Most engineered flooring can be installed using staples, full spread adhesive or a floating method over an approved subfloor. Nail-down (Staple-down) installation method Remove any baseboards or shoe moldings. Baseboard is used to hide the gap that you must leave for expansion and contraction of wood. So, you will want to make sure your subfloor is clear to the walls in order to have a place to come back and install the base and shoe molding later. The standard gap between the flooring and the walls is 3/16" to 3/4" depending on your manufacturer and style of flooring. Screw down any loose or squeaky boards and undercut any door jambs to allow for the wood to be installed underneath. A helpful tip is to use the backside of one of your boards to determine the height needed to be cut off of your door jambs. Start laying out the first row. Try to run the boards perpendicular to your floor joists if possible. You will need to either pop a chalk line or stretch a line parallel to your first wall. Make sure and account at this point for any out of square issues in your room. Once you start running boards they will appear as straight as the first board. You usually would measure from one side of the wall to the other and adjust any discrepancies with this first row. Make sure and predrill your first row or two for nails and face nail them into joists if possible. Dry fit the next 3 feet or so. Make sure you are pulling your strips or planks from three separate boxes randomly so that the natural graining of the wood will vary slightly. This way your installed floor will have a more uniform look. Now you can layout all your boards for 3 feet or so and make your length cuts accordingly. Nail down the next rows. Use a flooring nailer to nail through the tongue of the board. These are usually available for rent at most tool rental outlets. Using a rubber mallet to shoot the nail through the tongue. Make sure you adjust the nailer so that it countersinks the boards. Keep alternating nailing and dry-fitting boards to assure a proper fit. Nail around any obstacles in the floor such as cabinets or pipes/fixtures that come out of the subfloor. Make sure you leave the appropriate gap around any of these obstacles. Face nail the last few rows when you come to the edge of the room. Next install your transitions and base moldings. Make sure you allow for a gap inside your transition. Also, make sure that you do not nail down the transition or moldings to the wood floor. You will need to nail the base moldings into the wall and the transitions into the floor in a place where it will not come into contact with the wood. Sometimes it is helpful to add some construction adhesive to the bottom of the transitions as these are usually high traffic areas. Over time this will prevent squeaking. Glue-down installation method Remove any baseboards or shoe moldings. Baseboard is used to hide the gap that you must leave for expansion and contraction of wood. So, you will want to make sure your subfloor is clear to the walls in order to have a place to come back and install the base and shoe molding later. The standard gap between the flooring and the walls is 3/16" to 3/4" depending on your manufacturer and style of flooring. If installing over a wood subfloor, screw down any loose or squeaky boards, Undercut any door jambs to allow for the wood to be installed underneath. A helpful tip is to use the backside of one of your boards to determine the height needed to be cut off of your door jambs. Start laying out the first row. Try to run the boards perpendicular to your floor joists if possible. You will need to either pop a chalk line or stretch a line parallel to your first wall. Make sure and account at this point for any out of square issues in your room. Once you start running boards they will appear as straight as the first board. You usually would measure from one side of the wall to the other and adjust any discrepancies with this first row. Glue down this first row. Dry fit the next 3 feet or so. Make sure you are pulling your strips or planks from three separate boxes randomly so that the natural graining of the wood will vary slightly. This way your installed floor will have a more uniform look. Now you can layout all your boards for 3 feet or so and make your length cuts accordingly. Apply glue a foot or so out from the board and glue down the next few rows. Keep in mind the larger the room the less area away from your board you will be able to glue at a time. Make sure and keep some cleanup rags to try and keep the glue off the wood. Most manufacturers sell these as accessories. You can also use Acetone on a cotton or cheesecloth rag. Glue around any obstacles in the floor such as cabinets or pipes/fixtures that come out of the subfloor. Make sure you leave the appropriate gap around any of these obstacles. Glue down the last few rows when you come to the edge of the room. Next install your transitions and base moldings. Make sure you allow for a gap inside your transition. Also, make sure that you do not glue down the transition or moldings to the wood floor. You will need to nail the base moldings into the wall and glue the transitions into the floor in a place where it will not come into contact with the wood using some construction adhesive to the bottom of the transitions. Note: You can't use a glue-down installation method with solid hardwood flooring. #floor #hardwood #installation #engineered #solid #diy #sample

In many cases, most people feel pretty secure with a basic/standard home security system, but with today's criminals/robbers its shocking to know how many of them know there way around a security system. There are a couple of small inexpensive things you can do for you and your family that may prevent that awful robbery. Window Alert is home security device that attaches to windows and set off by vibrations if someone tries to break through. Installs easily on any window, There is so many cases that robbers use there window cutting device that can not be detected from a basic Security system. This little window alarm was an essential in saving the millions of lives that were threatened by a robber. A Home Security Device such as the Watchdog is ideal for home protection, because it accomplishes what even the best living, breathing watchdog cannot do. Rex's electronic radar eyes, the Electronic Watch Dog Home Security Device can "see" through thick doors, walls and glass. And once his cord is plugged in, he'll stay on duty around the clock, indefinitely. The Electronic Watch Dog Home Security Device can protect homes, apartments, mobile homes, RV's, jewelry stores, factories, warehouses, public and private buildings of virtually every kind. For example, most apartment complexes do not have a security system in the apartment units. You only go in good faith that the apartment is safe. Rex, the electronic watch dog, what an easy solution to cure a robbery scare. Barking gets louder and more frequent as the intruder gets closer. Switches from the watchdog to the tranquil sounds of nature with the simple switch of a button. Variable distance sensitivity (up to 30') as well as volume control. Supplements your regular home security system by detecting robbers before they attempt to break into your home. A Nightmare Situation There are preventive solutions! The Big Jammer is a home security device that is a strong 20 gauge steel adjustable door brace that installs easily under door knobs and provides added security. Adjusts easily to fit most hinged doors. End caps can be removed to allow for use on sliding glass doors as well. Clean, baked enamel finish makes it attractive for in-house use. The base of the alarm is bolted to door or window frame, the actuator is connected to the window or door. The alarm is activated by opening the door or window. Great for any door particularly those hard to protect sliding glass doors. Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content #home #security #protection #alert #device

There are many of architectural styles in the US have influenced home design from coast-to-coast. Terms like 'modern' and 'contemporary' vary locally, but fixed features and principles can identify these popular frameworks. Whether you’re on the hunt for a new home or you’re just admiring the architecture in your neighborhood, learn about the different house styles and their defining characteristics. Today’s home buyers encounter a melting pot of architectural styles across the United States, ranging from sprawling Queen Annes to clean-lined contemporaries. But which styles reign supreme? For your shopping (and dreaming) pleasure, we've rounded up examples of the 12 most popular styles. Check them out, choose your favorite facade, and then head out on a house-hunting expedition. Contemporary Many newly constructed homes incorporate a wide variety of architectural influences, giving them a 'contemporary' look. A contemporary home is one that reflects the current style, which in this case would be XXI century architecture and design. Traditional & Cape Cod Originally built by English settlers in the 17th century, Cape Cod homes saw a resurgence in popularity during the 1940s. An original Cape Cod house is a small, rectangular, unadorned one to one-and-a-half-story cottage with a steep pitched roof to keep snow from piling up and side gables. A traditional home is the most common style in the United States. It is a mix of many classic, simple designs typical of the country's many regions. Common features include little ornamentation, simple rooflines, symmetrically spaced windows. Ranch-Style House One of the most popular home style in the U.S., ranches typically feature a long, open lay-out contained on a single story. Low rooflines and 'L' or 'U' shaped floor plans also predominated this popular style from the '40s through '80s. Americans loved their open, single-story floor plans, attached front garage, sliding glass doors, and low rooflines. European-Style European style homes is one of the most popular house plans in the US now. Massive entry door, big windows and stone decorations at the exterior. Big fireplace, hardwood floor, stone, and marble elements inside. European-style homes present with many similar elements of modern house, contemporary homes, and mid-century modern design - serving as a testament to the trending nature of these styles. Modern House Often confused with contemporary architecture, the term modernism applies to many homes built from the 1910s to 1980. Colonial (American Colonial, Colonial Revival) A colonial-style home usually has a simple, borderline minimalist rectangular shape. Inspired by 18th century design, architects of the Colonial Revival style pay the same attention to symmetry, but also borrow elements from other movements. They tend to be two to three stories tall with fireplaces and brick or wood facades. Colonial homes are traditionally found on the east coast of the United States. The Spanish colonial style was to the Southwest and Florida what the Colonial Revival and Tudor were to the Northeast and Midwest: an incredibly popular style that filled out the suburbs in the years after World War I. Often found in Florida and California, these homes also draw on the missions and pueblos of the West. Country-Style House The country style is a broad compassing style of design and home construction that is loosely based on traditional farmhouse styles. Tudor Revival Tudor homes share several common features: a steeply pitched roof with multiple overlapping, front-facing gables; a facade that's predominantly covered in brick but accented with half-timber framing (widely spaced wooden boards with stucco or stone in between). Though the style began in the late 19th century, it was immensely popular in the growing suburbs of the 1920s. A version of Tudor came back into vogue in the late 20th century. Log Cabins Log cabin house built of logs notched at the ends and laid one upon another with the spaces filled with plaster, moss, mortar, mud, or dried manure. The term 'log cabin' generally refers to a smaller, more rustic log house, such as a hunting cabin in the woods, that may or may not have electricity or plumbing. American Craftsman Craftsman style house characterized a covered front porch, tapered columns that support the roof and are typically more sturdy at the bottom, becoming smaller at the top, deep overhanging roof eaves. Many of these homes are bungalow-style and are known for their natural materials, cozy interiors, and wide porches. They're particularly popular in California and the Midwest, and appeal primarily to those who love vintage homes. Mediterranean Style Mediterranean types of houses have spread from Spain and Italy and landed solidly in the United States. Famous throughout warm-weather climates, Mediterranean style houses can be purchased mainly in California and Florida.

With our Blog, you’re not only sharing your voice with the world, you can also grow an active online community around your ideas. That’s why the our blog comes with a built-in members area - so that readers can easily follow up to your blog posts, leave a comments and share it with social media. What are you waiting for? Just create your own account now! What can members do? Members can follow each other, write and reply to comments, receive blog notifications, share files and publish posts. Each member gets their own personal profile page that they can customize. Any member of our website can be a writer so you can write and publish posts in our blog. Adding multiple posts is a great way to grow your community friends and promote your ideas, products, services, or your funny experience! As a registered member you can also use our Forum page, Share files, leave a comments and get a special offers from us. Here’s how to start a Blog writer: Register at Member’s Page (Sign Up / Register) Fill up the form and create your own account Click on the member’s profile and add information about you Create you post and send it to us Send us a request to be a writer After confirmation you can publish your post #blog #post #writer #member #register #login #account

There is a lot to consider before you begin building, from conducting a soil test to find out if the house will require more than a standard foundation and percolation test to determine what kind of septic system you need (of course if you need it!), to developing your plans in details in accordance with the building codes and obtaining building permit. Decide Your House Design and Get The Plans Before deciding on your house design and how you will build it, check out some of the new, and not so new, ideas that are out there. Before you decide to work with an architect, you have to know what you want. Is it a traditional, or contemporary style, cottage, ranch-style rambler, or might be something new? You can find a lot of plans in the internet featuring one basic design or another. You may find something that suits to you and order a complete set of plans for $1,000÷$1,500. The easiest way to pass all requirements is to hire a local architect, who provide the plans in accordance with building codes and city requirements and who is familiar with quirks of the building inspection department. In other case you can use a ready-to-build (pre-designed and pre-approved) plans, which already permitted by the city authorities. Even when so-called pre-designed buildings and pre-approved plans are sold with the assurance that they will satisfy building codes, there are likely to be areas where a local inspector will want some changes. In this case, usually, you have to work with a structural engineer to specify foundation depth, beam sizes, and other technical information required for a building permit. Your house plans should be approval by city building department before you start building. Zoning, Building Codes, Permits and Inspections The main zoning categories are commercial and residential, but there are also many subcategories. Zoning regulations control what can you build on your site. Building codes regulates all aspects of construction and includes control all major structural components, insulation, thermal quality of windows, ventilation, electric, plumbing, and more. On a new house or large addition you have to get a building permit. In many areas, you may also need special permits and inspections to make sure that electrical, plumbing, heating and cooling work is up to code. Inspections is the most important part of your building process, which should be done on each studies of construction before next study run. Inspectors have the final say is that study of construction (foundation, framing, etc.) is complete and meet the building codes or not. To avoid extra expenses, save time and money, as well as reduce problems with city inspectors, you can hire a professional for a whole project (builder), or for some parts of the project (contractor) to manage and supervise a job and contact with inspectors. Budget Your Building You may have a castle in mind, but you need to keep a realistic view of cost and labor. Assuming similar square footages of living area, building up is generally less expensive than building down. So, in other words, building two-level house (building up) with a given amount of floor space will be less cost than building a one-level house with basement (building down). Square footage, walls design, roof lines, using energy efficient materials, and finishing needs your special attention in your budget as well. However, financing might be awkward because lenders may hesitate to provide money for a house that may not to be finished in a few years. Optimize What You Want and What You Can There are many alternatives how to build your dream home and there are some benefit ideas for you: Check out pre-approved plans to meet your needs and save time and money or hire the local architect for custom house plans Hire the pros to handle parts you feel beyond your skills Budget your building Ask at least 2-3 estimates for each type of work Use prefabricated parts as possible (roof trusses, frame details, etc.) to save time/money Select finishing materials at low-cost Control and correct each study of construction in time and money #permit #code #building #test #soil #zoning #inspection

Do you know, that you can post your blog from anywhere and anytime? It's easy! Just create an account at our website and go! When it comes to design, our blog has everything you need to create beautiful posts that will grab your reader's attention. Check out our essential design features. Choose from 8 stunning layouts Your Blog page comes with 8 beautiful layouts. From your blog's settings, choose the layout that’s right for you. For example, a tiled layout is popular for helping visitors discover more posts that interest them. Or, choose a classic single column layout that lets readers scroll down and see your post topics one by one. Every layout comes with the latest social features built in. Readers can easily share posts on social networks like Facebook and Twitter and view how many people have liked a post, made comments and more. Add media to your posts When creating your posts you can: Upload images or GIFs Embed videos and music Create galleries to showcase a media collection Customize the look of your media by making it widescreen or small and easily align media inside your posts. Hashtag your posts Love to #hashtag? Good news! You can add tags (#vacation #dream #summer #home #renovation) throughout your posts to reach more people. Why hashtag? People can use your hashtags to search through content on your blog and find the content that matters to them. So go ahead and #hashtag away!

The kitchen countertop has to be able to take a lot of abuse including the heat of pots, cutting and knives and abrasive cleansers. The ideal countertop should be able to stand up to heat and the sharp edge of a knife. Let us take a look at 7 of the most popular kitchen countertop materials being used today: Granite A natural stone, granite is a popular choice for it's classic beauty and durability. Granite is the hardest and densest of the natural stones. It can create a kitchen countertop that is extremely scratch resistant and can keep its luster longer than most materials. granite slabs are the most expensive of all kitchen countertop surfaces, although it is still considered a very practical material in that it is virtually indestructible. Marble Another natural stone, marble is considered to be the height of elegance and will last longer than most kitchens. It is however, is very expensive and requires some care: acidic foods such as orange juice will etch the finished surface of a marble kitchen countertop. Slate Because of it richness and beauty slate is usually used in interior applications such as kitchen countertops, bathroom sinks or fireplace surrounds. It can be used in either modern or traditional kitchens as well as in combination with marble. Slate is durable, strong, and can withstand hard use. It is less expensive than marble. Concrete This is one of the biggest trends in kitchen countertops today. It is a good look for clean, industrial and contemporary kitchen designs. Available in pre formed sections or poured and formed on-site. Concrete is a good material for unusually shaped counters. Concrete kitchen countertops are expensive, require a sealant and must be treated with care. The countertop can crack if the concrete should contract. Concrete can be stained any color. The most popular color is a natural gray tone. The top layer can be finished as desired. Corian A solid surface material that first became popular in the 1990's It is highly recommended by kitchen countertop experts. It is a totally manmade product and is not porous. As a solid surface it can easily be repaired if scratched or burned. Stainless Steel Advantages include very hygienic, easy to clean, has ability to stand up to exteme wear and heat. Stainless steel can provide a great look for an ultra modern kitchen. Some disadvantages with stainless is that it can be noisy and that scratches can develop. Tile Tile surfaces can be tough, hard-wearing, takes hot pans, heat and stain resistant as well as beautiful. There are many types of tiles including ceramic, porcelain, quarry, glass, natural stone and mosaic. Available in many colors, sizes and textures. It has good design flexibility. Tile can often be used for trim or backsplashes. The downside of tile is that the grouts can be easily stained. Also the tiles can become chipped or cracked. Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content #kitchen #marble #granite #countertop