O:9:"MagpieRSS":21:{s:6:"parser";i:0;s:12:"current_item";a:0:{}s:5:"items";a:80:{i:0;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:50:"Easy ways to create a dream bedroom for your child";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8060830101";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"10/3/2011";s:11:"description";s:3692:"(ARA) - Just about every child wishes for a dream bedroom, but it takes inspiration to transform four white walls into a fairytale princess room or tree house hideaway. Fortunately, you don't have to be an interior designer or skilled craftsman to become a hero. A little family compromising, combined with some simple painting techniques, can go a long way in creating a fun, personalized design that kids love - and parents can live with over time.
Choose kid-friendly colors
Paint is one of the easiest and most dramatic ways to transform a room. Start by choosing a color scheme that appeals to your child's interests. There's a wide array of colors and creative design ideas that appeal to kids.
One option is the Kids' Colors collections at Sherwin-Williams stores, which offer four color-coordinated palettes, paired with easy instruction guides, for creating delightful, age-appropriate designs. In all, the 120 professionally selected colors fall into four age groups, from infants to teenagers, with color schemes that can be adapted as the child grows.
The techniques are as endless as your imagination. Try adding whimsical polka dots to a girl's room, create a checkerboard effect for an avid chess player, or paint a faux racecar track that zooms around the bedroom wall, across the floor and back up the wall again, for a young sports enthusiast. More design inspiration is available at www.fisher-price.com.
Using instructions and a few simple tools such as painters' tape, mini-rollers and a tape measure, you can confidently add visual interest and make even a simple room look incredibly special. Visit www.sherwin-williams.com/do_it_yourself.
Create storage to complement the design
Keep your child's bedroom beautiful by incorporating storage elements that will blend with your design and help keep the space clutter-free. For example, try adding a bed skirt to hide a couple of slide-out storage containers for organizing anything from small toys to multiple pairs of tennis shoes. Place woven baskets around the room to create attractive storage in plain sight. These organizational elements can work well in rooms for kids of any age.
Coordinate colors with patterns
The nursery is another room that lends itself to the dreams of both little ones and their parents. One way to create a cohesive design is to match paint colors with the patterns in baby bedding fashions.
For example, a collection of Sherwin-Williams colors is available to coordinate with popular patterns from the Fisher-Price Baby Gear line of bassinettes, baby seats, play yards and other nursery items. The palette, available at more than 3,300 Sherwin-Williams stores nationwide, includes hues that have been hand-selected by color experts to help tie a nursery design together.
To round out the baby's room, try adding rugs, accessories or draperies that pick up the colors used on the walls and in the bedding patterns.
Choose bedroom furniture that will endure
Select furniture that can transition to a new bedroom design as your child grows older. For example, with just a change of pillows, a nursery rocker can become part of a cozy reading nook later for a grade-schooler who loves to curl up and read alone. Bunk beds that serve as a pretend fort now can become traditional twin beds later. Even a frilly canopy bed can become a grown-up four-poster later by simply removing the canopy framework and fabric cover.";s:7:"summary";s:3692:"(ARA) - Just about every child wishes for a dream bedroom, but it takes inspiration to transform four white walls into a fairytale princess room or tree house hideaway. Fortunately, you don't have to be an interior designer or skilled craftsman to become a hero. A little family compromising, combined with some simple painting techniques, can go a long way in creating a fun, personalized design that kids love - and parents can live with over time.
Choose kid-friendly colors
Paint is one of the easiest and most dramatic ways to transform a room. Start by choosing a color scheme that appeals to your child's interests. There's a wide array of colors and creative design ideas that appeal to kids.
One option is the Kids' Colors collections at Sherwin-Williams stores, which offer four color-coordinated palettes, paired with easy instruction guides, for creating delightful, age-appropriate designs. In all, the 120 professionally selected colors fall into four age groups, from infants to teenagers, with color schemes that can be adapted as the child grows.
The techniques are as endless as your imagination. Try adding whimsical polka dots to a girl's room, create a checkerboard effect for an avid chess player, or paint a faux racecar track that zooms around the bedroom wall, across the floor and back up the wall again, for a young sports enthusiast. More design inspiration is available at www.fisher-price.com.
Using instructions and a few simple tools such as painters' tape, mini-rollers and a tape measure, you can confidently add visual interest and make even a simple room look incredibly special. Visit www.sherwin-williams.com/do_it_yourself.
Create storage to complement the design
Keep your child's bedroom beautiful by incorporating storage elements that will blend with your design and help keep the space clutter-free. For example, try adding a bed skirt to hide a couple of slide-out storage containers for organizing anything from small toys to multiple pairs of tennis shoes. Place woven baskets around the room to create attractive storage in plain sight. These organizational elements can work well in rooms for kids of any age.
Coordinate colors with patterns
The nursery is another room that lends itself to the dreams of both little ones and their parents. One way to create a cohesive design is to match paint colors with the patterns in baby bedding fashions.
For example, a collection of Sherwin-Williams colors is available to coordinate with popular patterns from the Fisher-Price Baby Gear line of bassinettes, baby seats, play yards and other nursery items. The palette, available at more than 3,300 Sherwin-Williams stores nationwide, includes hues that have been hand-selected by color experts to help tie a nursery design together.
To round out the baby's room, try adding rugs, accessories or draperies that pick up the colors used on the walls and in the bedding patterns.
Choose bedroom furniture that will endure
Select furniture that can transition to a new bedroom design as your child grows older. For example, with just a change of pillows, a nursery rocker can become part of a cozy reading nook later for a grade-schooler who loves to curl up and read alone. Bunk beds that serve as a pretend fort now can become traditional twin beds later. Even a frilly canopy bed can become a grown-up four-poster later by simply removing the canopy framework and fabric cover.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1317614400;}i:1;a:7:{s:5:"title";s:53:"Keep busy around the house, even during winter months";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8061860108";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"12/2/2011";s:11:"description";s:2907:"(ARA) - When the cold outside drives you indoors, it's only natural to want to snuggle up and relax the months away. But this year, reconsider winter as the perfect time to take on do-it-yourself projects.
Whether you're tackling home improvement projects or small fix-it tasks, devoting time to getting it all done will help you beat cabin fever and give you a sense of accomplishment. Consider taking on some of these simple projects that need attention in virtually every household, and spring will be here before you know it.
* Tighten up what's loose. Does the handrail along your stairs shake when you grab on to it? Is there a dining chair that wobbles? These aren't just annoyances - they could be dangerous. Luckily, they are quick fixes when you have the right tools. For example, if one of your chairs has a stretcher that's come loose from the leg mortise, use a tenacious glue to re-establish a secure bond. Armed with a screwdriver, an allen wrench set and a bottle of Gorilla Glue, you can make the rounds in your home and tighten up loose screws or furniture joints.
* DIY shoe repair. Shoes take serious abuse, not just in the winter, but all year round. Have the whole family pull out their shoes that are leaky or have loose soles or footbeds, and get to work. Use Gorilla Super Glue to secure everything back in place, and everyone's favorite shoes will be as good as new.
* Freshen things up. If you've been feeling like your home is in a design rut, take the time to incorporate new decor details. Painting the walls a new color can liven up any room, and doesn't take much time or effort - just be sure to crack the windows a bit for good ventilation. If you're feeling more ambitious, consider a fun and eco-friendly "upcycling" craft project. Items like old shutters or windows can be reimagined as coffee tables, mirrors or displays for family photos. All you need is some creativity and an afternoon - and of course, essentials like Gorilla Wood Glue and a basic tool kit.
* Banish what's broken. Many people have broken items tucked away to be worked on "on a rainy day." Instead, use a snowy day as an excuse to super glue handles back on pitchers, fix broken vases or even repair wooden and plastic toys. Rather than consigning these items to the trash heap or letting them loiter in a closet, you'll be able to enjoy them all over again.
Keeping busy with home projects throughout the winter has a lot of benefits. You'll be burning off the calories that inevitably come with the season's comfort foods and maybe even having a bit of fun. And, perhaps most importantly, you'll be clearing your schedule so that when spring comes around, you can focus on getting outside and enjoying yourself.";s:5:"video";s:194:"";s:7:"summary";s:2907:"(ARA) - When the cold outside drives you indoors, it's only natural to want to snuggle up and relax the months away. But this year, reconsider winter as the perfect time to take on do-it-yourself projects.
Whether you're tackling home improvement projects or small fix-it tasks, devoting time to getting it all done will help you beat cabin fever and give you a sense of accomplishment. Consider taking on some of these simple projects that need attention in virtually every household, and spring will be here before you know it.
* Tighten up what's loose. Does the handrail along your stairs shake when you grab on to it? Is there a dining chair that wobbles? These aren't just annoyances - they could be dangerous. Luckily, they are quick fixes when you have the right tools. For example, if one of your chairs has a stretcher that's come loose from the leg mortise, use a tenacious glue to re-establish a secure bond. Armed with a screwdriver, an allen wrench set and a bottle of Gorilla Glue, you can make the rounds in your home and tighten up loose screws or furniture joints.
* DIY shoe repair. Shoes take serious abuse, not just in the winter, but all year round. Have the whole family pull out their shoes that are leaky or have loose soles or footbeds, and get to work. Use Gorilla Super Glue to secure everything back in place, and everyone's favorite shoes will be as good as new.
* Freshen things up. If you've been feeling like your home is in a design rut, take the time to incorporate new decor details. Painting the walls a new color can liven up any room, and doesn't take much time or effort - just be sure to crack the windows a bit for good ventilation. If you're feeling more ambitious, consider a fun and eco-friendly "upcycling" craft project. Items like old shutters or windows can be reimagined as coffee tables, mirrors or displays for family photos. All you need is some creativity and an afternoon - and of course, essentials like Gorilla Wood Glue and a basic tool kit.
* Banish what's broken. Many people have broken items tucked away to be worked on "on a rainy day." Instead, use a snowy day as an excuse to super glue handles back on pitchers, fix broken vases or even repair wooden and plastic toys. Rather than consigning these items to the trash heap or letting them loiter in a closet, you'll be able to enjoy them all over again.
Keeping busy with home projects throughout the winter has a lot of benefits. You'll be burning off the calories that inevitably come with the season's comfort foods and maybe even having a bit of fun. And, perhaps most importantly, you'll be clearing your schedule so that when spring comes around, you can focus on getting outside and enjoying yourself.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1322802000;}i:2;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:30:"A new twist on bathroom basics";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8053834560";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"11/23/2011";s:11:"description";s:3774:"(ARA) - According to a recent study by Bath Fitter, 84 percent of consumers want to change something about their current bathroom, and less than 44 percent are satisfied with their current space. No need to fret; there are simple ways to add a creative twist to the bath just by switching or adding a few items.
Faucets, sinks, showerheads, towels, soap - they're just the basic necessities of your master bath. But are all products created the same? Absolutely not. Check out these new innovations that add an updated twist to bathroom basics.
Mesmerizing mirror
The plain old bathroom mirror has now been upgraded to fit today's modern bath. With the Robern TViD, this "mirror, mirror on the wall" comes equipped with an integrated TV allowing you to never miss a second of your favorite game or TV show, even while prepping in the bathroom. It also has an integrated MP3 jack so you can play and sing along to your favorite tunes.
Twist and shout with a handheld shower
Sick of the same old shower experience? Now you can bring a revitalized change to your daily routine with the new Twist Handheld Shower from Moen. Available at The Home Depot, Twist allows you to easily switch between the four spray settings with one hand - all without having to touch the water flow - to create your very own showering experience. Twist offers a transitional style that coordinates with most bathroom decor. Twist is also easy to install and is ideal for bathing children or pets, and for cleaning your bathtub or shower.
Creative curved shower rod
Ever get into your shower and feel a bit ... claustrophobic? Add more than five inches of elbow room in the shower with a new Double Curved Shower Rod from Moen. Available at Bed Bath & Beyond, the double-bar design allows users to utilize separate bars for the shower liner curtain and decorative shower curtain; or, it provides an extra bar for hanging towels or other daily essentials. Now you can achieve a more comfortable shower experience with this bathroom addition available in an array of today's most popular finishes.
Wonderfully waterproof
Your daily shower is often a place for inspiration, epiphanies and deep thought. Now, you'll never have to worry about forgetting those "aha" moments again with AquaNotes. This waterproof notepad allows you to write notes in the shower or even underwater. It easily mounts to your shower wall and any notes you write can be detached and taken with you. Simply write, remove and remember - it's that easy.
Simple space solution
No matter how organized your bathroom, it's always tough to find a place for the many daily necessities that we want at our finger tips. Now, you can easily keep these items within arm's reach - yet off the vanity - with innovative Shower Rod Hooks from Moen. These ingenious, S-shaped hooks snap right onto your shower rod to offer convenient access for a variety of items, such as clothing, jewelry, towels, travel bags and more.
Keep the chill away
Warm towels aren't a luxury offered only at hotels. Add a creative twist to your bathroom by installing a heated towel warmer. Available in many styles and finishes, towel warmers can be directly plugged into an outlet or mounted on your bathroom wall to keep you and your towels warm - no matter what the temperature is outside.
To add an unconventional twist to your bath, incorporate the above additions to help give your room a savvy style like no other.";s:7:"summary";s:3774:"(ARA) - According to a recent study by Bath Fitter, 84 percent of consumers want to change something about their current bathroom, and less than 44 percent are satisfied with their current space. No need to fret; there are simple ways to add a creative twist to the bath just by switching or adding a few items.
Faucets, sinks, showerheads, towels, soap - they're just the basic necessities of your master bath. But are all products created the same? Absolutely not. Check out these new innovations that add an updated twist to bathroom basics.
Mesmerizing mirror
The plain old bathroom mirror has now been upgraded to fit today's modern bath. With the Robern TViD, this "mirror, mirror on the wall" comes equipped with an integrated TV allowing you to never miss a second of your favorite game or TV show, even while prepping in the bathroom. It also has an integrated MP3 jack so you can play and sing along to your favorite tunes.
Twist and shout with a handheld shower
Sick of the same old shower experience? Now you can bring a revitalized change to your daily routine with the new Twist Handheld Shower from Moen. Available at The Home Depot, Twist allows you to easily switch between the four spray settings with one hand - all without having to touch the water flow - to create your very own showering experience. Twist offers a transitional style that coordinates with most bathroom decor. Twist is also easy to install and is ideal for bathing children or pets, and for cleaning your bathtub or shower.
Creative curved shower rod
Ever get into your shower and feel a bit ... claustrophobic? Add more than five inches of elbow room in the shower with a new Double Curved Shower Rod from Moen. Available at Bed Bath & Beyond, the double-bar design allows users to utilize separate bars for the shower liner curtain and decorative shower curtain; or, it provides an extra bar for hanging towels or other daily essentials. Now you can achieve a more comfortable shower experience with this bathroom addition available in an array of today's most popular finishes.
Wonderfully waterproof
Your daily shower is often a place for inspiration, epiphanies and deep thought. Now, you'll never have to worry about forgetting those "aha" moments again with AquaNotes. This waterproof notepad allows you to write notes in the shower or even underwater. It easily mounts to your shower wall and any notes you write can be detached and taken with you. Simply write, remove and remember - it's that easy.
Simple space solution
No matter how organized your bathroom, it's always tough to find a place for the many daily necessities that we want at our finger tips. Now, you can easily keep these items within arm's reach - yet off the vanity - with innovative Shower Rod Hooks from Moen. These ingenious, S-shaped hooks snap right onto your shower rod to offer convenient access for a variety of items, such as clothing, jewelry, towels, travel bags and more.
Keep the chill away
Warm towels aren't a luxury offered only at hotels. Add a creative twist to your bathroom by installing a heated towel warmer. Available in many styles and finishes, towel warmers can be directly plugged into an outlet or mounted on your bathroom wall to keep you and your towels warm - no matter what the temperature is outside.
To add an unconventional twist to your bath, incorporate the above additions to help give your room a savvy style like no other.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1322024400;}i:3;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:46:"Five tips to stay warm and reduce energy costs";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8050710709";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"11/8/2011";s:11:"description";s:3311:"(ARA) - As winter approaches and the outdoor temperature drops, energy consumption is on the rise. Homeowners can implement these five tips to help reduce their home's energy use and costs, yet maintain a warm and comfortable indoor environment, this winter.
Energy audit
If you want to reduce your home's energy costs, a home energy assessment or audit is a good place to start. While many homeowners can observe obvious air leaks on their own, a professional energy auditor will go into greater detail, checking a home's exterior and interior room-by-room, for undetectable energy wasters. A professional will also review your recent utility bills before recommending ways to decrease household energy consumption. Many electric or gas companies provide professional energy assessments or can recommend a local auditor.
Lighting
During the winter, people tend to use more artificial lighting to make up for the decrease in daylight. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, switching from incandescent light bulbs to more efficient compact florescent bulbs (CFLs) or light emitting diodes (LEDs) can save up to $50 a year in energy costs. Another easy way to reduce energy consumption during the winter holiday season is to use a timer on your festive decorative lights. Your local home improvement stores should carry a variety of inexpensive timer models to choose from.
Water heating
Lowering the thermostat on your water heater by 10 degrees can help save between 3 and 5 percent in energy costs. In addition, keeping your water heater set at 120 degrees will slow corrosion in your water heater and pipes, allowing them to operate at their most efficient. Insulate your water heater tank and any accessible hot water pipes using pre-cut insulation pieces available at most home improvement stores. The pre-cut pieces are easy to install and may prevent your pipes from freezing in the winter.
Indoor heating
It's tempting to turn up the heat when the weather cools; however, during the winter months, you can save as much as 3 percent of heating costs for every degree your thermostat is lowered. A professional heating and cooling contractor can recommend and install a programmable thermostat like the AccuLink(TM) Platinum ZV Control from American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning that allows homeowners to create heating schedules for when no one is home ensuring greater energy efficiency and enhanced indoor comfort. Learn more at www.americanstandardair.com.
Insulation
Adding more insulation where you already have some, in your home's attic, for example, will help to save energy. However greater energy savings are often found when installing insulation into places that are not currently insulated. A home energy auditor can help identify how much insulation you currently have and how much you need, in addition to which type of installation to install.
During the winter, energy costs can make a big dent in the family budget; however, there are a few easy things you can do to lower your home's energy consumption. Find comfort and joy in your home this season by reducing energy costs and efficiently heating your home.";s:7:"summary";s:3311:"(ARA) - As winter approaches and the outdoor temperature drops, energy consumption is on the rise. Homeowners can implement these five tips to help reduce their home's energy use and costs, yet maintain a warm and comfortable indoor environment, this winter.
Energy audit
If you want to reduce your home's energy costs, a home energy assessment or audit is a good place to start. While many homeowners can observe obvious air leaks on their own, a professional energy auditor will go into greater detail, checking a home's exterior and interior room-by-room, for undetectable energy wasters. A professional will also review your recent utility bills before recommending ways to decrease household energy consumption. Many electric or gas companies provide professional energy assessments or can recommend a local auditor.
Lighting
During the winter, people tend to use more artificial lighting to make up for the decrease in daylight. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, switching from incandescent light bulbs to more efficient compact florescent bulbs (CFLs) or light emitting diodes (LEDs) can save up to $50 a year in energy costs. Another easy way to reduce energy consumption during the winter holiday season is to use a timer on your festive decorative lights. Your local home improvement stores should carry a variety of inexpensive timer models to choose from.
Water heating
Lowering the thermostat on your water heater by 10 degrees can help save between 3 and 5 percent in energy costs. In addition, keeping your water heater set at 120 degrees will slow corrosion in your water heater and pipes, allowing them to operate at their most efficient. Insulate your water heater tank and any accessible hot water pipes using pre-cut insulation pieces available at most home improvement stores. The pre-cut pieces are easy to install and may prevent your pipes from freezing in the winter.
Indoor heating
It's tempting to turn up the heat when the weather cools; however, during the winter months, you can save as much as 3 percent of heating costs for every degree your thermostat is lowered. A professional heating and cooling contractor can recommend and install a programmable thermostat like the AccuLink(TM) Platinum ZV Control from American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning that allows homeowners to create heating schedules for when no one is home ensuring greater energy efficiency and enhanced indoor comfort. Learn more at www.americanstandardair.com.
Insulation
Adding more insulation where you already have some, in your home's attic, for example, will help to save energy. However greater energy savings are often found when installing insulation into places that are not currently insulated. A home energy auditor can help identify how much insulation you currently have and how much you need, in addition to which type of installation to install.
During the winter, energy costs can make a big dent in the family budget; however, there are a few easy things you can do to lower your home's energy consumption. Find comfort and joy in your home this season by reducing energy costs and efficiently heating your home.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1320728400;}i:4;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:76:"Instant gratification: Painting projects to update your decor in one weekend";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8053834460";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"11/23/2011";s:11:"description";s:3299:"(ARA) - Updating the decor in your home doesn't have to be a long, laborious or expensive process. Instead, get a little instant gratification by using paint to easily refresh areas and items throughout the house. With a little cash and a free weekend, you can makeover your house right now.
Furniture facelift
Whether it's an old pair of chairs in the attic or a desk that's seen better days, it's easy to breathe new life into pieces of forgotten furniture with a fresh coat of paint. You can add interest and a pop of color to any room. A semi-gloss finish works best when painting furniture because it's easy to clean and hides any imperfections.
How to:
* Make sure the surface is clean, dull and dry.
* Prime with a stain blocking primer to ensure the surface is properly sealed. This will help the paint go on evenly and uniformly.
* With a high-quality mini-roller, like those from Purdy, apply the paint of your choice to achieve the best finish. These tools are versatile, lightweight, and can quickly and easily deliver a perfect finish with smooth rolling action.
* For extra protection, brush on two thin, even coats of water-based polyurethane.
Door do-over
Changing the color of an interior door can make a big impact in any room. The key to getting this update right: color selection. Choose color similar to your walls for the door, because you don't want the contrast to be jarring. Be sure to paint the frame too, so the door doesn't seem to float in space, and use a gloss or semi-gloss finish.
How to:
* Remove door and hinges from the wall.
* Make sure the door is clean dull and dry.
* Prime bare, sanded woodwork; there's no need to prime previously painted surfaces if they're in good condition. However, if you are going over an existing oil-based paint with a latex paint, follow the instructions on the paint can on how to prime.
* When applying paint or primer, work from the center of the door outwards in the following order: molding, inside panels, rails, stiles
* Once paint is completely dry, re-hang door using existing hinges.
Step to it
For an unexpected update, paint an area of the house that doesn't usually receive a lot of love - your stair risers. They can get nicked and scuffed easily, so a fresh finish - and color - can really perk up the staircase. If you're unsure of which shade to choose, cut and paint cardboard pieces the same size of the risers and position them on the steps to get an idea of the effect.
How to:
* Dust risers with a broom and cover steps with masking paper; secure with painter's tape.
* Apply latex primer to wooden risers or metal etching primer to metallic ones. Brush horizontally and let dry for at least two hours. Mini rollers are another tool to consider especially over metal.
* Apply gloss, latex paint with a clean brush or mini roller. Let first coat dry two hours, then apply second coat.
* Wait a day for the paint to cure and then add a third coat for the most durable finish.
Remember: Painting is the easiest way to make a dramatic and instant impact on a room. This weekend, get inspired and makeover with these simple and inexpensive projects.";s:7:"summary";s:3299:"(ARA) - Updating the decor in your home doesn't have to be a long, laborious or expensive process. Instead, get a little instant gratification by using paint to easily refresh areas and items throughout the house. With a little cash and a free weekend, you can makeover your house right now.
Furniture facelift
Whether it's an old pair of chairs in the attic or a desk that's seen better days, it's easy to breathe new life into pieces of forgotten furniture with a fresh coat of paint. You can add interest and a pop of color to any room. A semi-gloss finish works best when painting furniture because it's easy to clean and hides any imperfections.
How to:
* Make sure the surface is clean, dull and dry.
* Prime with a stain blocking primer to ensure the surface is properly sealed. This will help the paint go on evenly and uniformly.
* With a high-quality mini-roller, like those from Purdy, apply the paint of your choice to achieve the best finish. These tools are versatile, lightweight, and can quickly and easily deliver a perfect finish with smooth rolling action.
* For extra protection, brush on two thin, even coats of water-based polyurethane.
Door do-over
Changing the color of an interior door can make a big impact in any room. The key to getting this update right: color selection. Choose color similar to your walls for the door, because you don't want the contrast to be jarring. Be sure to paint the frame too, so the door doesn't seem to float in space, and use a gloss or semi-gloss finish.
How to:
* Remove door and hinges from the wall.
* Make sure the door is clean dull and dry.
* Prime bare, sanded woodwork; there's no need to prime previously painted surfaces if they're in good condition. However, if you are going over an existing oil-based paint with a latex paint, follow the instructions on the paint can on how to prime.
* When applying paint or primer, work from the center of the door outwards in the following order: molding, inside panels, rails, stiles
* Once paint is completely dry, re-hang door using existing hinges.
Step to it
For an unexpected update, paint an area of the house that doesn't usually receive a lot of love - your stair risers. They can get nicked and scuffed easily, so a fresh finish - and color - can really perk up the staircase. If you're unsure of which shade to choose, cut and paint cardboard pieces the same size of the risers and position them on the steps to get an idea of the effect.
How to:
* Dust risers with a broom and cover steps with masking paper; secure with painter's tape.
* Apply latex primer to wooden risers or metal etching primer to metallic ones. Brush horizontally and let dry for at least two hours. Mini rollers are another tool to consider especially over metal.
* Apply gloss, latex paint with a clean brush or mini roller. Let first coat dry two hours, then apply second coat.
* Wait a day for the paint to cure and then add a third coat for the most durable finish.
Remember: Painting is the easiest way to make a dramatic and instant impact on a room. This weekend, get inspired and makeover with these simple and inexpensive projects.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1322024400;}i:5;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:40:"Tips for a secure home and peace of mind";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8056500202";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"12/20/2011";s:11:"description";s:3667:"(ARA) - Homeowners often worry about keeping their homes safe and secure for their families. And it's no wonder: nearly 70 percent of home break-ins are in the form of kick-ins to a door, according to the U. S. Department of Justice.
You have many easy and affordable options for ensuring a safer home, and ultimately, greater peace of mind. Here's a home security checklist to get you started.
Assess the perimeter. Walk around your yard at different times of the day to judge lighting and shadows. Think about how family members enter and exit the home from different doorways. Do you have sufficient exterior lighting to ensure that they can enter your home, can see and can be seen? Install better lighting near every entrance. Take a look at your landscaping from an intruder's point of view. Plant some thorny or prickly shrubbery below the windows and next to entrances so there's no place for someone to hide in waiting.
Add an alarmed lock. Most alarm systems trigger after a door has already been opened. However, if you don't have an alarm system, an alarmed lock is a great alternative, and will allow you to instantly hear what's happening at your door. For example, Schlage, a leader in home security, offers a first-of-its-kind Keyed Entry With Built-In Alarm. It's an alarmed lock with the added safeguard of a sensor alarm that lets you know when it is being tampered with. It has three alarm modes, which can be set to alert you to different types of activity at the door - when it's been open and closed, when it's been tampered with and when there's been a forced entry.
"An alarmed lock provides an added layer of security that many homeowners' are looking for and can put their minds at ease," says Chris DeSchamp, Schlage portfolio leader, electronic security.
The battery-operated units, which can be seen at www.alarm.schlage.com, costs around $99 and are easy to install and are available at select The Home Depot stores, homedepot.com, lowes.com, amazon.com and build.com.
Safeguard the windows. Make sure your windows are also set up for security. Install quality window locks that keep windows in a closed position, to avoid giving criminals an open invitation to enter. Manufacturers offer a variety of options to safeguard different types of windows including double-hung and casement windows.
Enhance security of glass and wooden doors. Make sure all your sliding glass and patio doors have at least one of the following to prevent them from being opened: a track lock, a hinged door bar, an insertion pin lock or a metal or wood dowel inserted into the track that allows it to be opened only when you wish. It's also a good idea to equip each wooden door with a wide-angle eye viewer so you can identify who may be at the door before opening it.
Monitor home security while you're away. With today's technologies, it's easier and more affordable than ever to monitor and control your home's security even if you're not home. For example, the Schlage LiNK System lets you use any computer connected to the Internet or Web-enabled cell phone to turn lights on and off, check the status of the door, grant entry into the home, open and close blinds, and many more functions.
By making these easy steps to upgrade your home's security, you'll not only gain more protection for your family, but you'll also gain the best security of all - total peace of mind. For more home security ideas, visit www.schlage.com.";s:7:"summary";s:3667:"(ARA) - Homeowners often worry about keeping their homes safe and secure for their families. And it's no wonder: nearly 70 percent of home break-ins are in the form of kick-ins to a door, according to the U. S. Department of Justice.
You have many easy and affordable options for ensuring a safer home, and ultimately, greater peace of mind. Here's a home security checklist to get you started.
Assess the perimeter. Walk around your yard at different times of the day to judge lighting and shadows. Think about how family members enter and exit the home from different doorways. Do you have sufficient exterior lighting to ensure that they can enter your home, can see and can be seen? Install better lighting near every entrance. Take a look at your landscaping from an intruder's point of view. Plant some thorny or prickly shrubbery below the windows and next to entrances so there's no place for someone to hide in waiting.
Add an alarmed lock. Most alarm systems trigger after a door has already been opened. However, if you don't have an alarm system, an alarmed lock is a great alternative, and will allow you to instantly hear what's happening at your door. For example, Schlage, a leader in home security, offers a first-of-its-kind Keyed Entry With Built-In Alarm. It's an alarmed lock with the added safeguard of a sensor alarm that lets you know when it is being tampered with. It has three alarm modes, which can be set to alert you to different types of activity at the door - when it's been open and closed, when it's been tampered with and when there's been a forced entry.
"An alarmed lock provides an added layer of security that many homeowners' are looking for and can put their minds at ease," says Chris DeSchamp, Schlage portfolio leader, electronic security.
The battery-operated units, which can be seen at www.alarm.schlage.com, costs around $99 and are easy to install and are available at select The Home Depot stores, homedepot.com, lowes.com, amazon.com and build.com.
Safeguard the windows. Make sure your windows are also set up for security. Install quality window locks that keep windows in a closed position, to avoid giving criminals an open invitation to enter. Manufacturers offer a variety of options to safeguard different types of windows including double-hung and casement windows.
Enhance security of glass and wooden doors. Make sure all your sliding glass and patio doors have at least one of the following to prevent them from being opened: a track lock, a hinged door bar, an insertion pin lock or a metal or wood dowel inserted into the track that allows it to be opened only when you wish. It's also a good idea to equip each wooden door with a wide-angle eye viewer so you can identify who may be at the door before opening it.
Monitor home security while you're away. With today's technologies, it's easier and more affordable than ever to monitor and control your home's security even if you're not home. For example, the Schlage LiNK System lets you use any computer connected to the Internet or Web-enabled cell phone to turn lights on and off, check the status of the door, grant entry into the home, open and close blinds, and many more functions.
By making these easy steps to upgrade your home's security, you'll not only gain more protection for your family, but you'll also gain the best security of all - total peace of mind. For more home security ideas, visit www.schlage.com.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1324357200;}i:6;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:61:"Four easy DIY 'cheats' that will look like you spent a bundle";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8061110101";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"10/21/2011";s:11:"description";s:4283:"(ARA) - Did you ever watch a home improvement show team transform a drab room into something spectacular using a shoestring budget and less time than it takes you to clean out your closet? Ever wonder how they did it? Here's the secret: they cheat. And you can too.
You would probably never consider taking shortcuts in other aspects of your life, from car maintenance to paying your taxes. But when it comes to do-it-yourself home improvement and decorating projects, there's no shame in "cheating" - and a lot to be gained by doing it. Decorator touches like crown moulding that requires no mitering and no-sew window treatments can give your home an instant visual upgrade for a fraction of the cost of having those jobs done professionally.
Here are four DIY "cheats" that will save you time and money - and yield professional results that look like you spent a bundle:
1. Crown moulding
Few design touches do more to dress up a room than adding crown moulding. But traditionally, crown moulding has been a job best left to professionals or DIYers with a lot more time and ambition than most. Adding crown molding the old-fashioned way requires expertise - like knowing how to properly cut and finish each piece - and tools that most homeowners simply don't have.
Fortunately, there's an easy alternative: Moulding Mates is a crown moulding installation system that requires no specialized tools or skills. You don't even need to miter cut corners. Simply pre-finish the polyurethane moulding (which is available in a wide range of styles), attach the patented Quick Clips to the wall where you want to place the moulding, and pop the moulding lengths into place on the clips. Corner pieces and connector blocks cover ends and seams, eliminating the need to miter ends and patch or touch up the long pieces. You can easily install the entire system using a screw drill and a saw. You can learn more and browse products at www.focalpointproducts.com.
2. Carpet tiles
New carpeting is a much-desired upgrade. As anyone who's ever bought carpet can tell you, the cost of installation can be prohibitive, yet properly installing wall-to-wall carpet requires specialized skills and tools that most DIYers don't have. Carpet tiles can be a great alternative.
Installing carpet tiles is well within the abilities of most homeowners. Because they're a smaller, more manageable size, carpet tiles are easier to install than a large piece of carpet. They require fewer cuts and no stretching. They also deliver enhanced design capabilities; it's easy to create a unique pattern using different colored tiles.
3. Mirror framing systems
A frame around a bathroom mirror can give the entire room a more luxurious, upscale feel. Yet, like traditional crown moulding, conventional framing requires knowledge of mitering. Fortunately, a simple online search will yield plenty of easier options, including framing systems that provide a custom look with pre-cut (and mitered) frame pieces.
The systems require no more expertise to install than being able to follow measuring directions and apply adhesive to a mirror. Available in a wide array of designs and colors, these systems make it possible to frame a mirror to match virtually any design theme.
4. No-sew window treatments
Custom window treatments look great but can cost a bundle. Sewing them yourself requires more expertise than you likely gleaned in your high school home-ec class, and you would need a decent (read: expensive) sewing machine to do the job right. Creating no-sew curtains requires nothing more than a tape measure, some scissors, iron-on adhesive, an iron and several yards of the fabric of your choice. Simply measure the windows to find your desired fabric length, cut the fabric into appropriately sized panels, and use the adhesive and iron to finish the edges, no sewing required.
When it comes to do-it-yourself home improvement and decorating, don't be a hero. A little "cheating" can save you time and money, and make creating your dream home fast, easy and rewarding.";s:7:"summary";s:4283:"(ARA) - Did you ever watch a home improvement show team transform a drab room into something spectacular using a shoestring budget and less time than it takes you to clean out your closet? Ever wonder how they did it? Here's the secret: they cheat. And you can too.
You would probably never consider taking shortcuts in other aspects of your life, from car maintenance to paying your taxes. But when it comes to do-it-yourself home improvement and decorating projects, there's no shame in "cheating" - and a lot to be gained by doing it. Decorator touches like crown moulding that requires no mitering and no-sew window treatments can give your home an instant visual upgrade for a fraction of the cost of having those jobs done professionally.
Here are four DIY "cheats" that will save you time and money - and yield professional results that look like you spent a bundle:
1. Crown moulding
Few design touches do more to dress up a room than adding crown moulding. But traditionally, crown moulding has been a job best left to professionals or DIYers with a lot more time and ambition than most. Adding crown molding the old-fashioned way requires expertise - like knowing how to properly cut and finish each piece - and tools that most homeowners simply don't have.
Fortunately, there's an easy alternative: Moulding Mates is a crown moulding installation system that requires no specialized tools or skills. You don't even need to miter cut corners. Simply pre-finish the polyurethane moulding (which is available in a wide range of styles), attach the patented Quick Clips to the wall where you want to place the moulding, and pop the moulding lengths into place on the clips. Corner pieces and connector blocks cover ends and seams, eliminating the need to miter ends and patch or touch up the long pieces. You can easily install the entire system using a screw drill and a saw. You can learn more and browse products at www.focalpointproducts.com.
2. Carpet tiles
New carpeting is a much-desired upgrade. As anyone who's ever bought carpet can tell you, the cost of installation can be prohibitive, yet properly installing wall-to-wall carpet requires specialized skills and tools that most DIYers don't have. Carpet tiles can be a great alternative.
Installing carpet tiles is well within the abilities of most homeowners. Because they're a smaller, more manageable size, carpet tiles are easier to install than a large piece of carpet. They require fewer cuts and no stretching. They also deliver enhanced design capabilities; it's easy to create a unique pattern using different colored tiles.
3. Mirror framing systems
A frame around a bathroom mirror can give the entire room a more luxurious, upscale feel. Yet, like traditional crown moulding, conventional framing requires knowledge of mitering. Fortunately, a simple online search will yield plenty of easier options, including framing systems that provide a custom look with pre-cut (and mitered) frame pieces.
The systems require no more expertise to install than being able to follow measuring directions and apply adhesive to a mirror. Available in a wide array of designs and colors, these systems make it possible to frame a mirror to match virtually any design theme.
4. No-sew window treatments
Custom window treatments look great but can cost a bundle. Sewing them yourself requires more expertise than you likely gleaned in your high school home-ec class, and you would need a decent (read: expensive) sewing machine to do the job right. Creating no-sew curtains requires nothing more than a tape measure, some scissors, iron-on adhesive, an iron and several yards of the fabric of your choice. Simply measure the windows to find your desired fabric length, cut the fabric into appropriately sized panels, and use the adhesive and iron to finish the edges, no sewing required.
When it comes to do-it-yourself home improvement and decorating, don't be a hero. A little "cheating" can save you time and money, and make creating your dream home fast, easy and rewarding.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1319169600;}i:7;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:32:"Savvy bathroom-storage solutions";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8053835160";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"1/20/2012";s:11:"description";s:3684:"(ARA) - While the bathroom may be one of the smallest rooms in the home, it is also the area where we store a multitude of items, from cosmetics to cleaners, laundry to linens. With this in mind, it's easy for your bath to feel more like crowded, cluttered chaos than the spa sanctuary we long for it to be.
Luckily, with a few conscious attempts to control the clutter, your bathroom storage woes will cease and you can create a bathing haven to put you at ease.
Shower storage with style and size
Nineteen percent of men and 22 percent of women say leaving items on the bathroom floor is a top annoyance in the bath, according to an online consumer survey by Moen Incorporated. Luckily, freeing the floor can be simple; just use your shower for storage. Adding a Double Curved Shower Rod from Moen creates an excellent place to hang towels, robes and other items. Available at Bed Bath and Beyond in a variety of finishes ($59.99), the double-bar design provides an extra bar for bath essentials when the two curtains are hung together on the interior bar. Plus, the curved design provides an extra 5 inches of elbow room for a more enjoyable shower experience.
Getting the "hang" of it
To accompany your new curved shower rod, incorporate shower rod hooks to fully utilize the storage space ... with style. These S-shaped hooks ($15) are easy to install - simply snap them right onto your shower rod to offer convenient access for a variety of items. Available in the most popular finishes to coordinate with other bathroom accessories, your bath will look great and you can keep items such as pajamas, loofahs or shaving kits off the floor and within arms' reach.
Drawers of your dreams
Have your bathroom drawers become a catch-all for hotel samples and unused cosmetics? Then it's time to whip your drawers into shape by weeding out what you don't need and then finding a spot for everything else. First, categorize items and store like items together. Interlocking drawer organizers ($2) from the containerstore.com or the Pop-a-Box compartment drawer organizer ($14.99) offer a home for each necessity, so that they stay organized and not free-floating around your drawers.
Vanity sanity
If you don't seem to have enough drawers or cabinets to house the items you don't want on display - don't fret. A variety of movable storage towers feature vertical designs to minimize floor space, while maximizing storage. The Real Simple Solutions Rotating Storage Tower ($129.99), swivels 360 degrees offering cabinets with storage trays on one side and a full-length mirror on the other. Both are available at Bed Bath and Beyond in a neutral white finish.
Disguised decor
To create an organized bath you need a designated place for everything. But if your floor or vanity space is limited, where else can you look? Try the walls. Wall shelves can be the perfect solution for storage - and create a beautiful look in your bath. The key is to view the shelves as decor not storage. First, choose a stylish design in a finish that coordinates with the rest of your bath hardware. Then, add decorative baskets or jars to place on the shelves to hold your items. Soon you'll have storage space disguised as decoration.
With these simple storage solutions, your bath will be an oasis of organization for you to wake up and enjoy each morning.For more information about Moen bath products, visit www.moen.com.";s:7:"summary";s:3684:"(ARA) - While the bathroom may be one of the smallest rooms in the home, it is also the area where we store a multitude of items, from cosmetics to cleaners, laundry to linens. With this in mind, it's easy for your bath to feel more like crowded, cluttered chaos than the spa sanctuary we long for it to be.
Luckily, with a few conscious attempts to control the clutter, your bathroom storage woes will cease and you can create a bathing haven to put you at ease.
Shower storage with style and size
Nineteen percent of men and 22 percent of women say leaving items on the bathroom floor is a top annoyance in the bath, according to an online consumer survey by Moen Incorporated. Luckily, freeing the floor can be simple; just use your shower for storage. Adding a Double Curved Shower Rod from Moen creates an excellent place to hang towels, robes and other items. Available at Bed Bath and Beyond in a variety of finishes ($59.99), the double-bar design provides an extra bar for bath essentials when the two curtains are hung together on the interior bar. Plus, the curved design provides an extra 5 inches of elbow room for a more enjoyable shower experience.
Getting the "hang" of it
To accompany your new curved shower rod, incorporate shower rod hooks to fully utilize the storage space ... with style. These S-shaped hooks ($15) are easy to install - simply snap them right onto your shower rod to offer convenient access for a variety of items. Available in the most popular finishes to coordinate with other bathroom accessories, your bath will look great and you can keep items such as pajamas, loofahs or shaving kits off the floor and within arms' reach.
Drawers of your dreams
Have your bathroom drawers become a catch-all for hotel samples and unused cosmetics? Then it's time to whip your drawers into shape by weeding out what you don't need and then finding a spot for everything else. First, categorize items and store like items together. Interlocking drawer organizers ($2) from the containerstore.com or the Pop-a-Box compartment drawer organizer ($14.99) offer a home for each necessity, so that they stay organized and not free-floating around your drawers.
Vanity sanity
If you don't seem to have enough drawers or cabinets to house the items you don't want on display - don't fret. A variety of movable storage towers feature vertical designs to minimize floor space, while maximizing storage. The Real Simple Solutions Rotating Storage Tower ($129.99), swivels 360 degrees offering cabinets with storage trays on one side and a full-length mirror on the other. Both are available at Bed Bath and Beyond in a neutral white finish.
Disguised decor
To create an organized bath you need a designated place for everything. But if your floor or vanity space is limited, where else can you look? Try the walls. Wall shelves can be the perfect solution for storage - and create a beautiful look in your bath. The key is to view the shelves as decor not storage. First, choose a stylish design in a finish that coordinates with the rest of your bath hardware. Then, add decorative baskets or jars to place on the shelves to hold your items. Soon you'll have storage space disguised as decoration.
With these simple storage solutions, your bath will be an oasis of organization for you to wake up and enjoy each morning.For more information about Moen bath products, visit www.moen.com.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1327035600;}i:8;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:69:"Remodeling for aging in place today will help sell your home tomorrow";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8052690710";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"10/28/2011";s:11:"description";s:4669:"(ARA) - Only one in 10 adults believes this is a good time to sell a home, according to Fannie Mae's September 2011 National Housing Survey. If you're on hold in the real estate market, now is the time to get your house in order - literally. Make the right changes today, and you'll get a better price tomorrow.
But before you invest in a home-improvement project, consider your potential buyers with this fact in mind: More than 3.5 million baby boomers turn 55 each year, according to the 2010 U.S. Census. Since people aged 45 to 64 make up more than a quarter of today's U.S. population, there's a good chance you'll be selling to someone in this age group. Will your home appeal to them?
Your chances will be better if your home has "aging in place" design features that make it easier for older adults to live on their own longer. These modifications are the fastest-growing segment of the home remodeling industry, says the National Association of Home Builders. Because they range from simple fixes to full-scale renovations, making aging-in-place changes can suit any budget.
Best of all, this type of project not only improves a home's resale value for the future, it also increases its safety and comfort for all residents right now.
Add a bath where none exists
Adding a bathroom on the main living level is a smart strategy to appeal to older adults, says national home safety expert Meri-K Appy. "Falls are the leading cause of home injury deaths, and older adults are at greatest risk for them," she says. "Eliminating the need to use stairs and reducing the distance to a bathroom can be a great safety advantage."
A new bath is also a sound investment. This one improvement was shown to return more than 53 percent of its cost at resale in the 2010-2011 Remodeling Magazine Cost vs. Value Report.
A macerating toilet system is a good way to lower the cost of adding a bath, says Otis Dardy, owner of Dardy Construction in Conyers, Ga. Dardy recently used macerating, or up flush, technology to install a full bathroom in a home that lacked below-floor plumbing drainage. With conventional plumbing fixtures, Dardy would have had to dig through the concrete, creating a costly and time-consuming mess. Instead, he used Saniflo up flush technology, which allows you to add plumbing to any room in your home, even the basement, without having to break up the floor.
Macerating plumbing systems pump waste and water from a toilet - as well as a sink, shower, wet bar, even a washing machine - upward through small diameter piping.
Before Dardy knew about macerating plumbing systems, many of his customers who wanted a bathroom couldn't afford the cost of creating new drainage. "I can save them a ton of money now," he says. "It will also work if you want to convert a walk-in closet into a powder room."
Looking for more ways to update a bathroom with aging adults in mind? Put a telephone line in the bathroom. You may also want to install grab bars in and near tubs and showers while adding a hand-held showerhead. It not only makes bathing easier, but it also helps when it's time to wash a pet or clean the tub. Use low, open shelving, and place nightlights in hallways and bathrooms to improve illumination and reduce falls.
Universal improvements
If you're doing a kitchen remodel, consider using nonslip flooring. Some designers recommend cork tiles, which have the added advantage of being environmentally friendly.
To make your kitchen workspace more user-friendly, vary the height of your countertop areas to accommodate both standing and seated cooks, and don't forget to install bright task lighting. Always choose appliances with controls that are easy to read and easy to use.
Push/pull levers are a must for kitchen faucets, and installing thermostatic and anti-scald devices can reduce hot-water burn injuries.
If you're replacing windows, make sure the hardware is easy to operate. Installing a new entry door? Choose a low-maintenance alternative to wood. All stairways inside and out should have two handrails and bright overhead lighting.
Less-expensive improvements include replacing doorknobs with handles that are easier to open and putting D-shaped pulls on drawers and cabinets. Replace any dim bulbs with bright overhead lighting.";s:7:"summary";s:4669:"(ARA) - Only one in 10 adults believes this is a good time to sell a home, according to Fannie Mae's September 2011 National Housing Survey. If you're on hold in the real estate market, now is the time to get your house in order - literally. Make the right changes today, and you'll get a better price tomorrow.
But before you invest in a home-improvement project, consider your potential buyers with this fact in mind: More than 3.5 million baby boomers turn 55 each year, according to the 2010 U.S. Census. Since people aged 45 to 64 make up more than a quarter of today's U.S. population, there's a good chance you'll be selling to someone in this age group. Will your home appeal to them?
Your chances will be better if your home has "aging in place" design features that make it easier for older adults to live on their own longer. These modifications are the fastest-growing segment of the home remodeling industry, says the National Association of Home Builders. Because they range from simple fixes to full-scale renovations, making aging-in-place changes can suit any budget.
Best of all, this type of project not only improves a home's resale value for the future, it also increases its safety and comfort for all residents right now.
Add a bath where none exists
Adding a bathroom on the main living level is a smart strategy to appeal to older adults, says national home safety expert Meri-K Appy. "Falls are the leading cause of home injury deaths, and older adults are at greatest risk for them," she says. "Eliminating the need to use stairs and reducing the distance to a bathroom can be a great safety advantage."
A new bath is also a sound investment. This one improvement was shown to return more than 53 percent of its cost at resale in the 2010-2011 Remodeling Magazine Cost vs. Value Report.
A macerating toilet system is a good way to lower the cost of adding a bath, says Otis Dardy, owner of Dardy Construction in Conyers, Ga. Dardy recently used macerating, or up flush, technology to install a full bathroom in a home that lacked below-floor plumbing drainage. With conventional plumbing fixtures, Dardy would have had to dig through the concrete, creating a costly and time-consuming mess. Instead, he used Saniflo up flush technology, which allows you to add plumbing to any room in your home, even the basement, without having to break up the floor.
Macerating plumbing systems pump waste and water from a toilet - as well as a sink, shower, wet bar, even a washing machine - upward through small diameter piping.
Before Dardy knew about macerating plumbing systems, many of his customers who wanted a bathroom couldn't afford the cost of creating new drainage. "I can save them a ton of money now," he says. "It will also work if you want to convert a walk-in closet into a powder room."
Looking for more ways to update a bathroom with aging adults in mind? Put a telephone line in the bathroom. You may also want to install grab bars in and near tubs and showers while adding a hand-held showerhead. It not only makes bathing easier, but it also helps when it's time to wash a pet or clean the tub. Use low, open shelving, and place nightlights in hallways and bathrooms to improve illumination and reduce falls.
Universal improvements
If you're doing a kitchen remodel, consider using nonslip flooring. Some designers recommend cork tiles, which have the added advantage of being environmentally friendly.
To make your kitchen workspace more user-friendly, vary the height of your countertop areas to accommodate both standing and seated cooks, and don't forget to install bright task lighting. Always choose appliances with controls that are easy to read and easy to use.
Push/pull levers are a must for kitchen faucets, and installing thermostatic and anti-scald devices can reduce hot-water burn injuries.
If you're replacing windows, make sure the hardware is easy to operate. Installing a new entry door? Choose a low-maintenance alternative to wood. All stairways inside and out should have two handrails and bright overhead lighting.
Less-expensive improvements include replacing doorknobs with handles that are easier to open and putting D-shaped pulls on drawers and cabinets. Replace any dim bulbs with bright overhead lighting.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1319774400;}i:9;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:32:"Home improvement for your health";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8061930312";s:7:"pubdate";s:8:"2/1/2012";s:11:"description";s:4354:"(ARA) - When considering home improvements, people tend to choose projects that will improve the value of their home. While this is important for a healthy bottom line, investing in the health of those living inside the home also is a value-added improvement.
"I love going to the gym, but there are days when my workout will only happen if I work out at home because I don't have time for the commute," says Chris Freytag, a national health and fitness expert and contributing editor of Prevention Magazine.
While die-hard gym-goers might need a home-exercise option if they have sick children or a sudden change in schedule, even outdoor exercise enthusiasts might need shelter from extreme weather. "If you're committed to your fitness routine, you always need that plan B, even if you do belong to a health club," Freytag says.
Freytag, who is chairman of the board of directors for the American Council on Exercise, says that in cases such as these, having a fitness option at home keeps your workouts convenient. And for those who make their home the primary place to work out, dedicated space for fitness is important. "When you make it easier to exercise, you are more likely to do it," she says. "Depending on the room in your budget and the room in your house, you can create a home gym that's perfect for you and will help you meet your personal fitness goals."
Furnishing the home for fitness
Having space in the home dedicated for fitness is one thing. Knowing what to do in that space is another. Having the right fitness equipment and resources at home can turn the best intentions to work up a sweat into a successfully completed workout.
The good news is you no longer need to forsake your dining room table for a home gym. Today's fitness equipment is compact - making out-of-sight storage convenient - and portable enough to move from room to room, if necessary.
Here is a list to consider when furnishing your home for fitness:
1. Healthy Way of Life Weight Loss DVD: This two-DVD package is the first of its kind offered by Life Time Fitness, The Healthy Way of Life Company, based on weight loss and fitness classes in their clubs. It provides a 12-week series of four workouts and includes a free 30-day trial to their new online program, Life Time at Home. While free for members, nonmembers can buy this virtual membership for $10 a month and, without setting foot into a gym, get a free consultation with a nutrition coach, access to supplemental workouts, a personalized tracker for nutrition, exercise and weight, and access to other health and fitness resources. For more information, go to lifetimefitness.mylt.com.
2. PowerBlock adjustable dumbbells: Although they might seem more pricey at first glance, they are less expensive than purchasing multiple dumbbell pairs of varying weights. Because there is only one pair for all the various weights, you keep your fitness space clutter free.
3. Stability ball: Replace the bulky bench you would use for resistance training with a stability ball to work on balance and core strength. Make sure your stability ball is burst resistant and rated for a slow deflate if punctured.
4. Resistance bands: While they enable you to work just about every muscle group, resistance bands are compact and can be stored in a drawer. "I highly recommend spending a little more for the braided bands, which are safer and hold their resistance better over time," advises Phil Timmons, national director of group training at Life Time. Purchase a set that comes with light, medium and hard resistance that also includes a door anchor.
5. Coach Troy's Performance and Fitness DVDs: Have a stationary bike or treadmill that has been collecting dust? Coach Troy Jacobson has a line of Spinervals, for the bike, and Runervals, for the treadmill, to help get that fitness equipment back in use. "People get bored without structure and goals," Jacobson says. "The key is to do workouts that are focused and meaningful as opposed to just mindlessly moving on the trainer or stationary bike. Indoor training is highly specific and very efficient on a time/work scale. For most people, efficiency rules the day."";s:7:"summary";s:4354:"(ARA) - When considering home improvements, people tend to choose projects that will improve the value of their home. While this is important for a healthy bottom line, investing in the health of those living inside the home also is a value-added improvement.
"I love going to the gym, but there are days when my workout will only happen if I work out at home because I don't have time for the commute," says Chris Freytag, a national health and fitness expert and contributing editor of Prevention Magazine.
While die-hard gym-goers might need a home-exercise option if they have sick children or a sudden change in schedule, even outdoor exercise enthusiasts might need shelter from extreme weather. "If you're committed to your fitness routine, you always need that plan B, even if you do belong to a health club," Freytag says.
Freytag, who is chairman of the board of directors for the American Council on Exercise, says that in cases such as these, having a fitness option at home keeps your workouts convenient. And for those who make their home the primary place to work out, dedicated space for fitness is important. "When you make it easier to exercise, you are more likely to do it," she says. "Depending on the room in your budget and the room in your house, you can create a home gym that's perfect for you and will help you meet your personal fitness goals."
Furnishing the home for fitness
Having space in the home dedicated for fitness is one thing. Knowing what to do in that space is another. Having the right fitness equipment and resources at home can turn the best intentions to work up a sweat into a successfully completed workout.
The good news is you no longer need to forsake your dining room table for a home gym. Today's fitness equipment is compact - making out-of-sight storage convenient - and portable enough to move from room to room, if necessary.
Here is a list to consider when furnishing your home for fitness:
1. Healthy Way of Life Weight Loss DVD: This two-DVD package is the first of its kind offered by Life Time Fitness, The Healthy Way of Life Company, based on weight loss and fitness classes in their clubs. It provides a 12-week series of four workouts and includes a free 30-day trial to their new online program, Life Time at Home. While free for members, nonmembers can buy this virtual membership for $10 a month and, without setting foot into a gym, get a free consultation with a nutrition coach, access to supplemental workouts, a personalized tracker for nutrition, exercise and weight, and access to other health and fitness resources. For more information, go to lifetimefitness.mylt.com.
2. PowerBlock adjustable dumbbells: Although they might seem more pricey at first glance, they are less expensive than purchasing multiple dumbbell pairs of varying weights. Because there is only one pair for all the various weights, you keep your fitness space clutter free.
3. Stability ball: Replace the bulky bench you would use for resistance training with a stability ball to work on balance and core strength. Make sure your stability ball is burst resistant and rated for a slow deflate if punctured.
4. Resistance bands: While they enable you to work just about every muscle group, resistance bands are compact and can be stored in a drawer. "I highly recommend spending a little more for the braided bands, which are safer and hold their resistance better over time," advises Phil Timmons, national director of group training at Life Time. Purchase a set that comes with light, medium and hard resistance that also includes a door anchor.
5. Coach Troy's Performance and Fitness DVDs: Have a stationary bike or treadmill that has been collecting dust? Coach Troy Jacobson has a line of Spinervals, for the bike, and Runervals, for the treadmill, to help get that fitness equipment back in use. "People get bored without structure and goals," Jacobson says. "The key is to do workouts that are focused and meaningful as opposed to just mindlessly moving on the trainer or stationary bike. Indoor training is highly specific and very efficient on a time/work scale. For most people, efficiency rules the day."";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1328072400;}i:10;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:56:"Today's boomers downsize homes, but upsize the amenities";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8053835060";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"12/22/2011";s:11:"description";s:4771:"(ARA) - Say goodbye to the McMansion. According to a leading real estate website, Trulia.com, 2010 was officially the year that homes over 3,200 square feet ended their dominance and appeal. But don't think that downsizing means downgrading. In fact, homeowners are looking to upsize their amenities to help them enjoy every inch of their homes.
And, while many different generations are following this trend, Boomers are a unique group, looking to enjoy their smaller nest now that the kids have flown the coop - yet ensure that their homes are filled with the many amenities they'll require for their golden years.
Anything but basic baths
While they may purchase a smaller floor plan, mature adults are looking for ways to turn ordinary rooms into extraordinarily indulgent experiences. In the bath, that means the ultimate spa experience - from elaborate showers to heated floors and towel warmers. But when it comes to the bathroom, it's just as important to keep it safe. Luckily, safe can also equate to stylish. Try installing comfortable seating for the shower with a beautiful fold-down shower seat made of teak and aluminum; or updating common bath accessories such as a paper holder, towel bar or shelf with a new integrated version that combines each accessory with a grab bar for added safety.
"Our goal is to make every bath a safe bath. And, for savvy homeowners looking to incorporate safety at any age, it's essential we provide products to meet their safety and style requirements," says Laurie Birko, Moen Home Care brand manager. "Our newest products, such as our Fold-Down Shower Seat and Grab Bars with Accessories look like decorative pieces rather than safety devices, so homeowners no longer have to choose between safety or style ... they can have both."
Kitchens that cook ... and more
Different generations have very specific desires in terms of creating a kitchen to meet their needs, and according to findings from the Research Institute for Cooking and Kitchen Intelligence, boomers are looking for kitchens with amenities that will assist with entertaining. These upgrades may include cooktops with special-purpose features, such as a built-in grill or wok; commercial or professional-grade appliances; a built-in coffee pot connected directly to plumbing or an oven that dramatically reduces cooking times without microwaves.
Bedrooms that sizzle
Mature adults still know how to spice up their bedroom with hot amenities, including fireplaces, heated mattress pads and large-capacity warming cabinets for blankets, robes, towels and clothing. Convenience-based bedroom trends include a laundry room off of the master suite, remote-controlled window treatments and voice controlled lighting and electronics, making your mature boudoir much more magical than your childhood bedroom.
The greater outdoors
No-mow lawns have sprouted up as a time-, water-, fuel- and money-saving alternative to the traditional lawn. These lawns have been around for over a decade in parks and other public spaces. Now they're catching on with homeowners - particularly with the growing population of second-homeowners who don't want to spend their precious getaway weekends mowing the lawn. They're also becoming popular with mature adults who are simply tired of the rigors and high cost of constant lawn upkeep.
For homeowners in colder climates who are tired of the hassles and hazards of snow removal, driveway heating systems are an ideal amenity. Radiant driveway heating systems provide heat similar to indoor in-floor heating systems. Heat is delivered with either electric cable (electric systems) or by hot water pumped through plastic tubing (hydronic systems) compacted in the surface. Most driveway heating systems have automatic smart sensors that turn the systems on when it begins to snow, providing great consistency and reliability for snow removal, whether you're home or not.
And, with safety always a concern - both indoors and out - driveway heating systems are not only convenient; these systems are potentially lifesavers, helping prevent heart attacks, frostbite and back pain commonly associated with snow removal. Driveway heating also helps reduce injuries due to slips and falls, and possibly liability due to such accidents.
Regardless of the size of your home, whether you build new or buy used, filling your empty nest with hot amenities will help to make your golden years as good as gold. For more information about Moen Home Care bath safety products, visit www.moen.com.";s:7:"summary";s:4771:"(ARA) - Say goodbye to the McMansion. According to a leading real estate website, Trulia.com, 2010 was officially the year that homes over 3,200 square feet ended their dominance and appeal. But don't think that downsizing means downgrading. In fact, homeowners are looking to upsize their amenities to help them enjoy every inch of their homes.
And, while many different generations are following this trend, Boomers are a unique group, looking to enjoy their smaller nest now that the kids have flown the coop - yet ensure that their homes are filled with the many amenities they'll require for their golden years.
Anything but basic baths
While they may purchase a smaller floor plan, mature adults are looking for ways to turn ordinary rooms into extraordinarily indulgent experiences. In the bath, that means the ultimate spa experience - from elaborate showers to heated floors and towel warmers. But when it comes to the bathroom, it's just as important to keep it safe. Luckily, safe can also equate to stylish. Try installing comfortable seating for the shower with a beautiful fold-down shower seat made of teak and aluminum; or updating common bath accessories such as a paper holder, towel bar or shelf with a new integrated version that combines each accessory with a grab bar for added safety.
"Our goal is to make every bath a safe bath. And, for savvy homeowners looking to incorporate safety at any age, it's essential we provide products to meet their safety and style requirements," says Laurie Birko, Moen Home Care brand manager. "Our newest products, such as our Fold-Down Shower Seat and Grab Bars with Accessories look like decorative pieces rather than safety devices, so homeowners no longer have to choose between safety or style ... they can have both."
Kitchens that cook ... and more
Different generations have very specific desires in terms of creating a kitchen to meet their needs, and according to findings from the Research Institute for Cooking and Kitchen Intelligence, boomers are looking for kitchens with amenities that will assist with entertaining. These upgrades may include cooktops with special-purpose features, such as a built-in grill or wok; commercial or professional-grade appliances; a built-in coffee pot connected directly to plumbing or an oven that dramatically reduces cooking times without microwaves.
Bedrooms that sizzle
Mature adults still know how to spice up their bedroom with hot amenities, including fireplaces, heated mattress pads and large-capacity warming cabinets for blankets, robes, towels and clothing. Convenience-based bedroom trends include a laundry room off of the master suite, remote-controlled window treatments and voice controlled lighting and electronics, making your mature boudoir much more magical than your childhood bedroom.
The greater outdoors
No-mow lawns have sprouted up as a time-, water-, fuel- and money-saving alternative to the traditional lawn. These lawns have been around for over a decade in parks and other public spaces. Now they're catching on with homeowners - particularly with the growing population of second-homeowners who don't want to spend their precious getaway weekends mowing the lawn. They're also becoming popular with mature adults who are simply tired of the rigors and high cost of constant lawn upkeep.
For homeowners in colder climates who are tired of the hassles and hazards of snow removal, driveway heating systems are an ideal amenity. Radiant driveway heating systems provide heat similar to indoor in-floor heating systems. Heat is delivered with either electric cable (electric systems) or by hot water pumped through plastic tubing (hydronic systems) compacted in the surface. Most driveway heating systems have automatic smart sensors that turn the systems on when it begins to snow, providing great consistency and reliability for snow removal, whether you're home or not.
And, with safety always a concern - both indoors and out - driveway heating systems are not only convenient; these systems are potentially lifesavers, helping prevent heart attacks, frostbite and back pain commonly associated with snow removal. Driveway heating also helps reduce injuries due to slips and falls, and possibly liability due to such accidents.
Regardless of the size of your home, whether you build new or buy used, filling your empty nest with hot amenities will help to make your golden years as good as gold. For more information about Moen Home Care bath safety products, visit www.moen.com.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1324530000;}i:11;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:28:"Smarter snow removal options";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8053833460";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"10/18/2011";s:11:"description";s:4320:"(ARA) - As snowstorms hit major cities, thousands of people are stranded, not just at airports but in their own driveways. With snow accumulating faster than many can clear it using traditional snow removal methods, people may get stuck at home, unable to get to work or even to the grocery store.
The good news, despite the dismal forecast, is that there are more and better choices when it comes to snow removal options today. That's especially good news for the estimated 76 million baby boomers now living in the United States who benefit the most from ergonomically designed products that have the greatest potential to ease aching backs and joints and put less strain on the heart.
Snow blowers are available in a wide array of sizes and configurations and eliminate the need to shovel. The electric versions are more limiting as a result of the cord and only work for smaller properties. Gas or electric, the problem still remains that if the snow blower won't start, you will likely be late for work.
Also helpful are the newer de-icing products which, when sprayed on the pavement prior to snowfall, can actually help prevent hard ice from forming. Even snow shovels have evolved. Many today feature deep scoops manufactured from light polyethylene and curved handles for less back strain. The newer snow sleighs or pushers also help eliminate the need to lift heavy snow.
For homeowners with longer driveways, however, many of these options are not practical as they still require too much time and can overstrain the back and cause excessive exposure to the frigid temperatures. For these people there is a smarter option that became available around the same time that last year's winter wallop hit. The HomePlow by Meyer, which this year is available in three different models starting as low as $2,399, offers a number of unique advantages that make more traditional snow removal tools obsolete.
The simple-to-install and operate HomePlow easily mounts to any standard SUV, light pickup truck or utility vehicle to allow even the longest driveways to be cleared in a matter of minutes. A primary appeal, especially when compared with shoveling or use of a snow thrower or tractor plow, is that the HomePlow is operated from the inside of the vehicle. This allows users to safely and comfortably clear their driveways via a remote control without exposure to the cold and snow.
The patented Auto-Angling system controls the direction of the blade without need for any manual adjustment. It senses the weight of the snow and automatically angles to push snow off to the side. The Quick-Link receiver mount easily slides into a Class 3, two-inch front receiver hitch that allows the plow to be connected or disconnected in less than a minute without the need for any tools. And since it weighs less than 250 pounds, it moves easily on its caster wheels when it's time to store it away.
"We talked to a lot of consumers about their snow removal habits to determine what people liked and didn't like about their current options," said Andrew Outcalt, president of Meyer Products. "The most common complaints were about the amount of time and effort it took to complete the job, as well as exposure to the cold, wet snow."
Should you decide that this is the year you're going to plow your driveway yourself, Outcalt offers the following tips to help ensure a more successful plowing experience.
* Choose a plow that does not require any manual adjustments, so you can stay safe and warm inside the vehicle while plowing.
* Mark the edges of the driveway with identifiable stakes or markers so it's easy to see where the driveway ends and the yard begins.
* If you have a gravel driveway, consider purchasing plow shoes that elevate the blade off the surface.
* Make sure the blade is suitable for the surface you are plowing. Use a rubber edge to minimize noise and help protect decorative surfaces.
* Some plows, like the HomePlow, are sold with an optional poly deflector. This is beneficial as it keeps blow-back snow off the windshield.
To learn more how you can safely, reliably and comfortably keep your driveway clear this winter, visit thehomeplow.com.";s:7:"summary";s:4320:"(ARA) - As snowstorms hit major cities, thousands of people are stranded, not just at airports but in their own driveways. With snow accumulating faster than many can clear it using traditional snow removal methods, people may get stuck at home, unable to get to work or even to the grocery store.
The good news, despite the dismal forecast, is that there are more and better choices when it comes to snow removal options today. That's especially good news for the estimated 76 million baby boomers now living in the United States who benefit the most from ergonomically designed products that have the greatest potential to ease aching backs and joints and put less strain on the heart.
Snow blowers are available in a wide array of sizes and configurations and eliminate the need to shovel. The electric versions are more limiting as a result of the cord and only work for smaller properties. Gas or electric, the problem still remains that if the snow blower won't start, you will likely be late for work.
Also helpful are the newer de-icing products which, when sprayed on the pavement prior to snowfall, can actually help prevent hard ice from forming. Even snow shovels have evolved. Many today feature deep scoops manufactured from light polyethylene and curved handles for less back strain. The newer snow sleighs or pushers also help eliminate the need to lift heavy snow.
For homeowners with longer driveways, however, many of these options are not practical as they still require too much time and can overstrain the back and cause excessive exposure to the frigid temperatures. For these people there is a smarter option that became available around the same time that last year's winter wallop hit. The HomePlow by Meyer, which this year is available in three different models starting as low as $2,399, offers a number of unique advantages that make more traditional snow removal tools obsolete.
The simple-to-install and operate HomePlow easily mounts to any standard SUV, light pickup truck or utility vehicle to allow even the longest driveways to be cleared in a matter of minutes. A primary appeal, especially when compared with shoveling or use of a snow thrower or tractor plow, is that the HomePlow is operated from the inside of the vehicle. This allows users to safely and comfortably clear their driveways via a remote control without exposure to the cold and snow.
The patented Auto-Angling system controls the direction of the blade without need for any manual adjustment. It senses the weight of the snow and automatically angles to push snow off to the side. The Quick-Link receiver mount easily slides into a Class 3, two-inch front receiver hitch that allows the plow to be connected or disconnected in less than a minute without the need for any tools. And since it weighs less than 250 pounds, it moves easily on its caster wheels when it's time to store it away.
"We talked to a lot of consumers about their snow removal habits to determine what people liked and didn't like about their current options," said Andrew Outcalt, president of Meyer Products. "The most common complaints were about the amount of time and effort it took to complete the job, as well as exposure to the cold, wet snow."
Should you decide that this is the year you're going to plow your driveway yourself, Outcalt offers the following tips to help ensure a more successful plowing experience.
* Choose a plow that does not require any manual adjustments, so you can stay safe and warm inside the vehicle while plowing.
* Mark the edges of the driveway with identifiable stakes or markers so it's easy to see where the driveway ends and the yard begins.
* If you have a gravel driveway, consider purchasing plow shoes that elevate the blade off the surface.
* Make sure the blade is suitable for the surface you are plowing. Use a rubber edge to minimize noise and help protect decorative surfaces.
* Some plows, like the HomePlow, are sold with an optional poly deflector. This is beneficial as it keeps blow-back snow off the windshield.
To learn more how you can safely, reliably and comfortably keep your driveway clear this winter, visit thehomeplow.com.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1318910400;}i:12;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:60:"A blanket for your house: energy-efficient, insulated siding";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8054240710";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"10/6/2011";s:11:"description";s:3817:"(ARA) - With a growing emphasis on eco-conscious living, homeowners recognize the importance and value of having an energy-efficient home. One essential factor for saving energy and maintaining indoor air comfort is sealing the exterior of the home. Insulation and energy-efficient windows play important roles in preventing air leaks where obvious holes are present, however, one hidden area susceptible to energy leaks is the home's framing.
"Homeowners are looking for ways to improve their home's energy performance," says Jery Y. Huntley, president and CEO of the Vinyl Siding Institute (VSI), the trade association for manufacturers of vinyl and other polymeric siding and suppliers to the industry. "A common problem with homes today is the thermal bridging effect, which can rob a home of heat and waste energy and money."
In thermal bridging, the studs act as a passageway for heat to escape. Most insulation helps seal wall cavities, but the wall studs on either side of the cavities are often left exposed, reducing the insulating value of the entire wall.
"Continuous wall insulation is crucial to fully seal the exterior and protect against heat loss," says Jerry Blais, vice president of marketing for Ply Gem, a leading manufacturer of home remodeling and building products. "Insulated siding is one solution that helps reduce the impact of thermal bridging, adding a blanket of insulation over the exposed wall studs."
Backed with polystyrene foam insulation that is integral to the panel, insulated siding can increase a wall system's R-value, or thermal resistance. The continuous insulation the siding provides over the entire wall can contribute to reducing the energy needed to heat or cool a home.
In fact, ENERGY STAR and other programs now recognize insulated siding as a valid material to reduce thermal bridging. Therefore, insulated siding is included in the checklist of products that help homes qualify to earn the ENERGY STAR Qualified Homes label.
"The recognition of insulated siding as home insulation in energy codes and energy efficiency programs legitimizes a benefit we've known for some time," says Huntley.
Beyond energy efficiency, insulated siding offers many other benefits:
* Because it is made with vinyl, insulated siding is low maintenance. It provides the look of real wood, but does not require painting or staining.
* Insulated siding is an exceptionally dry wall system, making it resistant to mold growth and deterioration due to moisture absorption.
* The foam insulation backing and wide-style clapboard design options make insulated siding an extremely durable and impact resistant cladding, while improving the exterior wall flatness for added aesthetic appeal.
Today's vinyl siding manufacturers offer insulated siding options at various price points and in an assortment of colors. Blais recommends Mastic Home Exteriors by Ply Gem Structure EPS for superior performance and a wide selection of coordinating designer accents and accessories, which can be found on www.mastic.com. Options such as Napco by Ply Gem American Essence or Variform by Ply Gem CSL 600 also offer classic styling in numerous colors.
If you are considering insulated siding for your next home improvement project, ask your contractor to download a free copy of Insulated Siding as Home Insulation: Guide for Users and Energy Raters, published by the VSI. Available at www.insulatedsiding.info, this guide offers information on how insulated siding contributes to building energy performance, as well as proper installation techniques.";s:7:"summary";s:3817:"(ARA) - With a growing emphasis on eco-conscious living, homeowners recognize the importance and value of having an energy-efficient home. One essential factor for saving energy and maintaining indoor air comfort is sealing the exterior of the home. Insulation and energy-efficient windows play important roles in preventing air leaks where obvious holes are present, however, one hidden area susceptible to energy leaks is the home's framing.
"Homeowners are looking for ways to improve their home's energy performance," says Jery Y. Huntley, president and CEO of the Vinyl Siding Institute (VSI), the trade association for manufacturers of vinyl and other polymeric siding and suppliers to the industry. "A common problem with homes today is the thermal bridging effect, which can rob a home of heat and waste energy and money."
In thermal bridging, the studs act as a passageway for heat to escape. Most insulation helps seal wall cavities, but the wall studs on either side of the cavities are often left exposed, reducing the insulating value of the entire wall.
"Continuous wall insulation is crucial to fully seal the exterior and protect against heat loss," says Jerry Blais, vice president of marketing for Ply Gem, a leading manufacturer of home remodeling and building products. "Insulated siding is one solution that helps reduce the impact of thermal bridging, adding a blanket of insulation over the exposed wall studs."
Backed with polystyrene foam insulation that is integral to the panel, insulated siding can increase a wall system's R-value, or thermal resistance. The continuous insulation the siding provides over the entire wall can contribute to reducing the energy needed to heat or cool a home.
In fact, ENERGY STAR and other programs now recognize insulated siding as a valid material to reduce thermal bridging. Therefore, insulated siding is included in the checklist of products that help homes qualify to earn the ENERGY STAR Qualified Homes label.
"The recognition of insulated siding as home insulation in energy codes and energy efficiency programs legitimizes a benefit we've known for some time," says Huntley.
Beyond energy efficiency, insulated siding offers many other benefits:
* Because it is made with vinyl, insulated siding is low maintenance. It provides the look of real wood, but does not require painting or staining.
* Insulated siding is an exceptionally dry wall system, making it resistant to mold growth and deterioration due to moisture absorption.
* The foam insulation backing and wide-style clapboard design options make insulated siding an extremely durable and impact resistant cladding, while improving the exterior wall flatness for added aesthetic appeal.
Today's vinyl siding manufacturers offer insulated siding options at various price points and in an assortment of colors. Blais recommends Mastic Home Exteriors by Ply Gem Structure EPS for superior performance and a wide selection of coordinating designer accents and accessories, which can be found on www.mastic.com. Options such as Napco by Ply Gem American Essence or Variform by Ply Gem CSL 600 also offer classic styling in numerous colors.
If you are considering insulated siding for your next home improvement project, ask your contractor to download a free copy of Insulated Siding as Home Insulation: Guide for Users and Energy Raters, published by the VSI. Available at www.insulatedsiding.info, this guide offers information on how insulated siding contributes to building energy performance, as well as proper installation techniques.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1317873600;}i:13;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:45:"How to extend the life of your heating system";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8050710809";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"11/28/2011";s:11:"description";s:3269:"(ARA) - Just as regular tune-ups may extend the life of your car, performing routine maintenance to your home's heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system may extend the life of your HVAC equipment. While there are some tasks homeowners can handle on their own, many HVAC projects require a professional contractor.
Independent Customer Care (TM) Dealers from American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning offer a quick overview of basic service tasks for do-it-yourselfers and service jobs that require a pro:
Furnace maintenance: DIY
Filters prevent dust and dirt from building up in your HVAC system. However, dirty filters slow airflow, forcing your system to work harder. The extra exertion can increase energy costs and lead to a damaged system. To prevent costly repairs and keep your system operating at peak efficiency, replace your furnace filters on a monthly basis.
Furnace maintenance: Pro
A licensed HVAC contractor should fully inspect your furnace at least once per year. During an annual inspection, the contractor will check the heat exchanger and may adjust the burner. Depending on what type of heating system you have, a professional may also check or clean the flue.
Outdoor unit: DIY
Keep the area surrounding the outdoor unit free of debris - remove any grass or leaves near the base of the unit and keep nearby shrubbery pruned. If the exterior of the unit becomes dirty, you may also use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner to clean the surface.
Outdoor unit: Pro
When servicing an outdoor unit, a professional will inspect the unit's wiring and repair any loose or damaged connections. A licensed HVAC contractor will also remove any debris that you may have overlooked or can't see, as well as oil the fan and inspect the unit's interior for any damage.
Ductwork: DIY
Leaky ductwork wastes energy and reduces the life span of an HVAC system. DIYers are encouraged to inspect all visible ductwork in the attic, crawlspace or garage for cracks or leaks. Most local home improvement stores carry a variety of metal tapes or sealants that you can easily apply to seal leaks however, homeowners are encouraged to contact a professional for tougher jobs such as adding new ductwork.
Ductwork: Pro
A professional duct cleaner will inspect the entire system, including ductwork not accessible to you. As a part of the inspection, a professional will take apart the vents, clean the vents and registers, and check for mold, asbestos and other contaminants. A contractor will often seal off any fiberglass insulation in the ducts, preventing it from blowing into the home.
While a professional HVAC contractor will keep your system running at its most efficient, there are a few things you can do in tandem to help extend the life of your HVAC system. In addition, regular care to your heating and cooling system may also improve your home's energy efficiency and enhance indoor air quality. For more information or to contact a local American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning dealer, go to www.americanstandardair.com.";s:7:"summary";s:3269:"(ARA) - Just as regular tune-ups may extend the life of your car, performing routine maintenance to your home's heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system may extend the life of your HVAC equipment. While there are some tasks homeowners can handle on their own, many HVAC projects require a professional contractor.
Independent Customer Care (TM) Dealers from American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning offer a quick overview of basic service tasks for do-it-yourselfers and service jobs that require a pro:
Furnace maintenance: DIY
Filters prevent dust and dirt from building up in your HVAC system. However, dirty filters slow airflow, forcing your system to work harder. The extra exertion can increase energy costs and lead to a damaged system. To prevent costly repairs and keep your system operating at peak efficiency, replace your furnace filters on a monthly basis.
Furnace maintenance: Pro
A licensed HVAC contractor should fully inspect your furnace at least once per year. During an annual inspection, the contractor will check the heat exchanger and may adjust the burner. Depending on what type of heating system you have, a professional may also check or clean the flue.
Outdoor unit: DIY
Keep the area surrounding the outdoor unit free of debris - remove any grass or leaves near the base of the unit and keep nearby shrubbery pruned. If the exterior of the unit becomes dirty, you may also use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner to clean the surface.
Outdoor unit: Pro
When servicing an outdoor unit, a professional will inspect the unit's wiring and repair any loose or damaged connections. A licensed HVAC contractor will also remove any debris that you may have overlooked or can't see, as well as oil the fan and inspect the unit's interior for any damage.
Ductwork: DIY
Leaky ductwork wastes energy and reduces the life span of an HVAC system. DIYers are encouraged to inspect all visible ductwork in the attic, crawlspace or garage for cracks or leaks. Most local home improvement stores carry a variety of metal tapes or sealants that you can easily apply to seal leaks however, homeowners are encouraged to contact a professional for tougher jobs such as adding new ductwork.
Ductwork: Pro
A professional duct cleaner will inspect the entire system, including ductwork not accessible to you. As a part of the inspection, a professional will take apart the vents, clean the vents and registers, and check for mold, asbestos and other contaminants. A contractor will often seal off any fiberglass insulation in the ducts, preventing it from blowing into the home.
While a professional HVAC contractor will keep your system running at its most efficient, there are a few things you can do in tandem to help extend the life of your HVAC system. In addition, regular care to your heating and cooling system may also improve your home's energy efficiency and enhance indoor air quality. For more information or to contact a local American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning dealer, go to www.americanstandardair.com.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1322456400;}i:14;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:54:"Spring into 2012 with the hottest colors for your home";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8053835260";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"1/23/2012";s:11:"description";s:4105:"(ARA) - As you anticipate what exciting things this year will bring, you might notice your home decor has been left behind. Fortunately, you can easily beautify and modernize your home using hints from design experts on the hottest color trends. Don't worry that you'll need to break the bank - simply updating the shades of your walls can create the feel of an entire new home without the cost of buying one. And you'll enjoy starting the year in fresh, contemporary surroundings.
"Our world has become increasingly complicated and fast-paced in recent years, to the point that many people are now taking steps back to re-evaluate their lifestyles and consider what's truly important," says Donna Schroeder, Dutch Boy Paints manager of Color + Design. "As we look back to simpler times, we also see how design and style have evolved. Dutch Boy's 2012 color forecast is based on this reflection and the self-expression of what people find meaningful. This year's diverse color trends are rich and full of history, helping people create spaces that truly show their inner selves."
Featuring five groupings of the hottest colors in home decor, the Dutch Boy color forecast offers options for any room or personal taste. The 2012 trends palettes are as follows:
Ethereal. Whether it's the search for enlightenment or just the best cup of organic coffee within 20 miles, the path is about more than the ground covered. The Ethereal collection floats above other color palettes, airy and atmospheric with tea-stained and faded hues evocative of the lightness of the sky under the midday sun. Light colors from this palette include Epidermal, Faded Mint and Feather Lite.
Primitive. A meandering path through the forest takes us past colors only to be found in nature. Deep barks, shocking citrines and raw earth inspired the natural colors of this palette. The Primitive colors are as mysterious as the shaded canopy of the woods that inspired them. Suffused with energy, they speak to growth, regeneration and life. This natural palette includes Raw Garnet, Symbiotic Green and Indigenous Teal.
Fundamental. We've walked far away from the beige computer housings of the 1970s, only to find the hues from this budding technological era coming back full force. Retro office meets geek chic for a new take on '70s style, as seen in this grouping. The Fundamental color palette makes full use of classic, contrasting neutrals like beige and gray - designed to work as the perfect foil for bold main accents of green, orange and vibrant blue. Basic colors in the Fundamental palette include Ink Blue, Aged Cognac and Rudimentary Beige.
Pastimes. It's time for a road trip back in time to motels boasting refrigerated air, a gallon of gas that cost a dime and the game of miniature golf that was every family's obsession. The Pastimes color palette is filled with exuberant shades reminiscent of lazy summer days at a lake house without a television, or the intensity of the circus coming to town. It's American culture from the 1940s and '50s - a simpler time, an antidote to the fast-paced buzz and hum of modern technology. Bright Pastimes hues include Clown's Nose, Kiddie Pool and Orangesicle.
Compose. A street of dreams with a focus on soft femininity and vintage 1930s floral fashions are at the heart of the Compose color palette. Rich, dark hues are offset by bright pops of color that despite their origin in an earlier era, look fresh and new. This is a collection that worships the creative being in all of us, and encourages self-expression through home decorating. This inspired palette contains shades such as Purple Pencil Skirt, Lip Stain Pink and Theatrical Teal.
Choose any path to fit your home, whether it's a light, shimmery mint from the Ethereal palette, or a natural natural green from the Primitive palette. Using these cues from the color professionals, you can ensure your home enters 2012 in style.";s:7:"summary";s:4105:"(ARA) - As you anticipate what exciting things this year will bring, you might notice your home decor has been left behind. Fortunately, you can easily beautify and modernize your home using hints from design experts on the hottest color trends. Don't worry that you'll need to break the bank - simply updating the shades of your walls can create the feel of an entire new home without the cost of buying one. And you'll enjoy starting the year in fresh, contemporary surroundings.
"Our world has become increasingly complicated and fast-paced in recent years, to the point that many people are now taking steps back to re-evaluate their lifestyles and consider what's truly important," says Donna Schroeder, Dutch Boy Paints manager of Color + Design. "As we look back to simpler times, we also see how design and style have evolved. Dutch Boy's 2012 color forecast is based on this reflection and the self-expression of what people find meaningful. This year's diverse color trends are rich and full of history, helping people create spaces that truly show their inner selves."
Featuring five groupings of the hottest colors in home decor, the Dutch Boy color forecast offers options for any room or personal taste. The 2012 trends palettes are as follows:
Ethereal. Whether it's the search for enlightenment or just the best cup of organic coffee within 20 miles, the path is about more than the ground covered. The Ethereal collection floats above other color palettes, airy and atmospheric with tea-stained and faded hues evocative of the lightness of the sky under the midday sun. Light colors from this palette include Epidermal, Faded Mint and Feather Lite.
Primitive. A meandering path through the forest takes us past colors only to be found in nature. Deep barks, shocking citrines and raw earth inspired the natural colors of this palette. The Primitive colors are as mysterious as the shaded canopy of the woods that inspired them. Suffused with energy, they speak to growth, regeneration and life. This natural palette includes Raw Garnet, Symbiotic Green and Indigenous Teal.
Fundamental. We've walked far away from the beige computer housings of the 1970s, only to find the hues from this budding technological era coming back full force. Retro office meets geek chic for a new take on '70s style, as seen in this grouping. The Fundamental color palette makes full use of classic, contrasting neutrals like beige and gray - designed to work as the perfect foil for bold main accents of green, orange and vibrant blue. Basic colors in the Fundamental palette include Ink Blue, Aged Cognac and Rudimentary Beige.
Pastimes. It's time for a road trip back in time to motels boasting refrigerated air, a gallon of gas that cost a dime and the game of miniature golf that was every family's obsession. The Pastimes color palette is filled with exuberant shades reminiscent of lazy summer days at a lake house without a television, or the intensity of the circus coming to town. It's American culture from the 1940s and '50s - a simpler time, an antidote to the fast-paced buzz and hum of modern technology. Bright Pastimes hues include Clown's Nose, Kiddie Pool and Orangesicle.
Compose. A street of dreams with a focus on soft femininity and vintage 1930s floral fashions are at the heart of the Compose color palette. Rich, dark hues are offset by bright pops of color that despite their origin in an earlier era, look fresh and new. This is a collection that worships the creative being in all of us, and encourages self-expression through home decorating. This inspired palette contains shades such as Purple Pencil Skirt, Lip Stain Pink and Theatrical Teal.
Choose any path to fit your home, whether it's a light, shimmery mint from the Ethereal palette, or a natural natural green from the Primitive palette. Using these cues from the color professionals, you can ensure your home enters 2012 in style.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1327294800;}i:15;a:7:{s:5:"title";s:44:"Save money with these energy efficiency tips";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8054400404";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"12/7/2011";s:11:"description";s:3572:"(ARA) - Saving money is on everyone's mind this winter season. Between the holiday expenses, colder temperatures and tight budgets, finding ways to reduce costs can be a bit of a challenge. If you're looking for ways to save, look at your home, and see if you can improve on your energy efficiency - thereby keeping a few extra dollars in your pocket.
* Program the temperature. You already know that the lower you set the thermometer in winter, the less your furnace will work. Having the temperature set in the low 60s when out and about makes perfect sense. But when you are home, setting the temps a bit higher will help keep you comfortable. Instead of continuously running back and forth to the thermostat to constantly keep readjusting the temperature, install a programmable thermostat and preset the times you want the temps lower or higher.
* Clean your heating and cooling system. To help your furnace operate better, hire a qualified company to clean the ducts, blower, cooling coils and heat exchanger. To find someone certified contact NADCA - the HVAC Inspection, Maintenance and Restoration Association. NADCA recommends homeowners clean their heating and cooling systems annually, because dust and pollen build up on your ducts, and then recirculate through your home. This buildup of dirt prevents your furnace from efficiently running, making it work harder and run longer to maintain the temperature you set.
"A clean heating and cooling system helps to increase the airflow through your furnace, which in turn helps to make your home more comfortable," says Matt Mongiello, president of NADCA. "And when you combine a clean system with controlled temperatures, you'll notice the savings on your utility bills."
* Wash clothes in cold water. Every household processes about 400 loads of laundry per year, according to the California Energy Commission , making your washer one of the biggest water consuming products in your house. To help save on energy, wash your clothes only in cold water so you don't have to spend money using the water heater. And make sure you only process full loads to help conserve the number of loads you run and water you use. Additional energy savings can be found by line drying your clothes, or running them through the dryer for half the time, and then air drying them the rest of the time. Across most of the country, humidity levels tend to be lower during the winter months, which helps to speed up the clothes drying process.
* Unplug appliances. The amount of electricity consumed in your home often can easily be reduced by just unplugging and turning off items. According to Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratories, 5 percent of residential energy use in the U.S. is used when appliances are in the off position. Consider unplugging smaller appliances such as your microwave, cellphone charger, coffee maker and desktop computer which can continue to consume energy, even when you're not using them. If the appliance has a clock, or electrical display of some sort, electricity is needed to keep those items illuminated. If it's a hassle to unplug these items after each and every use, consider putting them on a power strip, so you can quickly and easily flip the switch on and off when you need to use the appliances.
Tightening down on your energy usage can help you save a couple of dollars here and there, and also keep you more comfortable in your home. So sit back and relax in your home and enjoy the winter season.";s:5:"video";s:194:"";s:7:"summary";s:3572:"(ARA) - Saving money is on everyone's mind this winter season. Between the holiday expenses, colder temperatures and tight budgets, finding ways to reduce costs can be a bit of a challenge. If you're looking for ways to save, look at your home, and see if you can improve on your energy efficiency - thereby keeping a few extra dollars in your pocket.
* Program the temperature. You already know that the lower you set the thermometer in winter, the less your furnace will work. Having the temperature set in the low 60s when out and about makes perfect sense. But when you are home, setting the temps a bit higher will help keep you comfortable. Instead of continuously running back and forth to the thermostat to constantly keep readjusting the temperature, install a programmable thermostat and preset the times you want the temps lower or higher.
* Clean your heating and cooling system. To help your furnace operate better, hire a qualified company to clean the ducts, blower, cooling coils and heat exchanger. To find someone certified contact NADCA - the HVAC Inspection, Maintenance and Restoration Association. NADCA recommends homeowners clean their heating and cooling systems annually, because dust and pollen build up on your ducts, and then recirculate through your home. This buildup of dirt prevents your furnace from efficiently running, making it work harder and run longer to maintain the temperature you set.
"A clean heating and cooling system helps to increase the airflow through your furnace, which in turn helps to make your home more comfortable," says Matt Mongiello, president of NADCA. "And when you combine a clean system with controlled temperatures, you'll notice the savings on your utility bills."
* Wash clothes in cold water. Every household processes about 400 loads of laundry per year, according to the California Energy Commission , making your washer one of the biggest water consuming products in your house. To help save on energy, wash your clothes only in cold water so you don't have to spend money using the water heater. And make sure you only process full loads to help conserve the number of loads you run and water you use. Additional energy savings can be found by line drying your clothes, or running them through the dryer for half the time, and then air drying them the rest of the time. Across most of the country, humidity levels tend to be lower during the winter months, which helps to speed up the clothes drying process.
* Unplug appliances. The amount of electricity consumed in your home often can easily be reduced by just unplugging and turning off items. According to Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratories, 5 percent of residential energy use in the U.S. is used when appliances are in the off position. Consider unplugging smaller appliances such as your microwave, cellphone charger, coffee maker and desktop computer which can continue to consume energy, even when you're not using them. If the appliance has a clock, or electrical display of some sort, electricity is needed to keep those items illuminated. If it's a hassle to unplug these items after each and every use, consider putting them on a power strip, so you can quickly and easily flip the switch on and off when you need to use the appliances.
Tightening down on your energy usage can help you save a couple of dollars here and there, and also keep you more comfortable in your home. So sit back and relax in your home and enjoy the winter season.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1323234000;}i:16;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:58:"Buying a fixer-upper? How to make the most of your remodel";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8055042336";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"10/13/2011";s:11:"description";s:3239:"(ARA) - With home prices and interest rates still low across the country, and inventories high, it's a great time to be in the market for a fixer-upper. By buying a house that needs some work, you can achieve your dream home for less than you would probably pay for a move-in-ready abode.
To ensure you're making the most of your investment, however, it pays to take a look at your credit before you buy and begin your remodel. You'll not only need credit to cover the purchase price of the house, but you'll need it for renovation expenses as well.
The first step you should take in your bid to buy a fixer-upper is to check your credit report and score. Websites like www.creditreport.com can help you understand your credit. Understanding your credit will help you know whether or not you can afford to buy a house that needs work and if you'll be able to pay for the needed renovations.
You should also carefully research what your options are for financing your remodel. Learn what your options are, from traditional fixed mortgages to home equity lines of credit, and decide before you buy which type of financing will be best for you. Getting a handle on your financing before you buy can help ensure you stay on budget when you're in the middle of renovations.
When you've got a clear picture of your credit status and financing options, you can start looking at fixer-uppers. When you find a good prospect, have your remodeling contractor walk through the house with you so he can give you a rough estimate of what needs to be done and how much the work will cost.
If you're buying a house that's in basically good condition but just looks dated, you'll have to make some decisions about where to invest your money. Focus on improvements that will not only look good, but will also enhance the value of your home. Resources like Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value report can give you a good idea of how much of your original investment you'll recoup on different remodeling projects at the time of resale.
Once you've signed all the paperwork and the house is yours, it's time to get to work. If you're handy, you may be able to save money by doing some of the renovation work yourself. Projects like painting, adding crown molding and even putting down new flooring are well within the skills of most do-it-yourselfers. More complex projects like drywall, plumbing or electrical work may be best left to professionals.
Whether you do the work yourself, or hire contractors, you'll need to carefully manage all aspects of the renovation to ensure your remodel stays on budget. The excitement of remodeling a house into your dream home can make it easy to get carried away on spending. Keep in mind that remodeling estimates are just that - an estimate. The final tab is rarely exactly what your contractor predicted it would be. Build in at least 10 percent extra to cover emergency overruns, and avoid making any unnecessary changes to the plans while the project is underway.";s:7:"summary";s:3239:"(ARA) - With home prices and interest rates still low across the country, and inventories high, it's a great time to be in the market for a fixer-upper. By buying a house that needs some work, you can achieve your dream home for less than you would probably pay for a move-in-ready abode.
To ensure you're making the most of your investment, however, it pays to take a look at your credit before you buy and begin your remodel. You'll not only need credit to cover the purchase price of the house, but you'll need it for renovation expenses as well.
The first step you should take in your bid to buy a fixer-upper is to check your credit report and score. Websites like www.creditreport.com can help you understand your credit. Understanding your credit will help you know whether or not you can afford to buy a house that needs work and if you'll be able to pay for the needed renovations.
You should also carefully research what your options are for financing your remodel. Learn what your options are, from traditional fixed mortgages to home equity lines of credit, and decide before you buy which type of financing will be best for you. Getting a handle on your financing before you buy can help ensure you stay on budget when you're in the middle of renovations.
When you've got a clear picture of your credit status and financing options, you can start looking at fixer-uppers. When you find a good prospect, have your remodeling contractor walk through the house with you so he can give you a rough estimate of what needs to be done and how much the work will cost.
If you're buying a house that's in basically good condition but just looks dated, you'll have to make some decisions about where to invest your money. Focus on improvements that will not only look good, but will also enhance the value of your home. Resources like Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value report can give you a good idea of how much of your original investment you'll recoup on different remodeling projects at the time of resale.
Once you've signed all the paperwork and the house is yours, it's time to get to work. If you're handy, you may be able to save money by doing some of the renovation work yourself. Projects like painting, adding crown molding and even putting down new flooring are well within the skills of most do-it-yourselfers. More complex projects like drywall, plumbing or electrical work may be best left to professionals.
Whether you do the work yourself, or hire contractors, you'll need to carefully manage all aspects of the renovation to ensure your remodel stays on budget. The excitement of remodeling a house into your dream home can make it easy to get carried away on spending. Keep in mind that remodeling estimates are just that - an estimate. The final tab is rarely exactly what your contractor predicted it would be. Build in at least 10 percent extra to cover emergency overruns, and avoid making any unnecessary changes to the plans while the project is underway.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1318478400;}i:17;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:43:"Five tips to get your home ready for winter";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8055290304";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"10/20/2011";s:11:"description";s:3435:"(ARA) - It may not be winter yet, but do not wait for it to arrive to start getting the house ready for the coldest months of the year.
Preparing a home for winter will take time and should not be rushed. Neglecting certain projects or carelessly completing them can lead to major system failures, extensive damage and in extreme cases even health problems.
"Procrastinating can cost you when it comes to getting ready for winter," says Rhonda Hills, of Kudzu.com. "Systems that are not ready for heavy use can falter or even fail. This can be a recipe for disaster."
The home experts at Kudzu.com recommend the following actions to get the home ready for the cooler temperatures ahead.
Have the chimney inspected and cleaned - If you have a wood-burning fireplace, the inside of the chimney can be a dirty place, and this has the potential to cause some problems if not addressed. Over time a combustible material called creosote can build up on the inside of the chimney. If not regularly removed, this substance can catch fire, causing major damage to the home and resulting in serious injuries or even death. Chimneys should be inspected and cleaned by a professional at least once a year to ensure all creosote is removed and the chimney is ready for use.
Get the furnace serviced - Heating systems will be putting in a lot of overtime as the temperatures plummet, and it is important to have them serviced so they can handle the load. Well maintained systems will operate more efficiently, which lowers heating costs. They will have a longer lifespan too. During an inspection, the heating expert will evaluate and clean the heat exchanger, ensure the burners and pilots ignite properly, clean the system's blower and more.
Seal all air ducts - Air ducts can be punctured, torn or become disconnected, all of which will cause heated air to spew into the attic, basement or crawlspace before it reaches the home's interior. These leaks waste a lot of energy and can cause heating bills to be much higher than they should be. To ensure all of the heated and cooled air that is being paid for makes its way into the living space, patch and repair all ducts as soon as possible
Add insulation - According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 80 percent of homes built before 1980 are not well insulated, so chances are your home is not as insulated as it should be. Adding insulation is one of the fastest, cheapest ways to retain heat and save on heating bills. Insulation is available in a variety of materials and is rated by R-values, or how well the insulation resists the transfer of heat. Insulation needs will vary by region and are dependent on local climate conditions and heating costs.
Protect pipes and exterior faucets - Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on pipes and exterior faucets. As water freezes, it expands and can burst plumbing lines and fixtures. These ruptures cause a great deal of damage to the home and leave homeowners with some very expensive repairs. Before cooler temperatures settle in, wrap all exposed plumbing in insulation to ensure the pipes are ready for the worst Old Man Winter can dish out.
Visit Kudzu.com for more home improvement advice or to find a highly rated professional in your area who can help you get your projects done.";s:7:"summary";s:3435:"(ARA) - It may not be winter yet, but do not wait for it to arrive to start getting the house ready for the coldest months of the year.
Preparing a home for winter will take time and should not be rushed. Neglecting certain projects or carelessly completing them can lead to major system failures, extensive damage and in extreme cases even health problems.
"Procrastinating can cost you when it comes to getting ready for winter," says Rhonda Hills, of Kudzu.com. "Systems that are not ready for heavy use can falter or even fail. This can be a recipe for disaster."
The home experts at Kudzu.com recommend the following actions to get the home ready for the cooler temperatures ahead.
Have the chimney inspected and cleaned - If you have a wood-burning fireplace, the inside of the chimney can be a dirty place, and this has the potential to cause some problems if not addressed. Over time a combustible material called creosote can build up on the inside of the chimney. If not regularly removed, this substance can catch fire, causing major damage to the home and resulting in serious injuries or even death. Chimneys should be inspected and cleaned by a professional at least once a year to ensure all creosote is removed and the chimney is ready for use.
Get the furnace serviced - Heating systems will be putting in a lot of overtime as the temperatures plummet, and it is important to have them serviced so they can handle the load. Well maintained systems will operate more efficiently, which lowers heating costs. They will have a longer lifespan too. During an inspection, the heating expert will evaluate and clean the heat exchanger, ensure the burners and pilots ignite properly, clean the system's blower and more.
Seal all air ducts - Air ducts can be punctured, torn or become disconnected, all of which will cause heated air to spew into the attic, basement or crawlspace before it reaches the home's interior. These leaks waste a lot of energy and can cause heating bills to be much higher than they should be. To ensure all of the heated and cooled air that is being paid for makes its way into the living space, patch and repair all ducts as soon as possible
Add insulation - According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 80 percent of homes built before 1980 are not well insulated, so chances are your home is not as insulated as it should be. Adding insulation is one of the fastest, cheapest ways to retain heat and save on heating bills. Insulation is available in a variety of materials and is rated by R-values, or how well the insulation resists the transfer of heat. Insulation needs will vary by region and are dependent on local climate conditions and heating costs.
Protect pipes and exterior faucets - Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on pipes and exterior faucets. As water freezes, it expands and can burst plumbing lines and fixtures. These ruptures cause a great deal of damage to the home and leave homeowners with some very expensive repairs. Before cooler temperatures settle in, wrap all exposed plumbing in insulation to ensure the pipes are ready for the worst Old Man Winter can dish out.
Visit Kudzu.com for more home improvement advice or to find a highly rated professional in your area who can help you get your projects done.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1319083200;}i:18;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:49:"How you can make staying home just like going out";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8057490101";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"10/7/2011";s:11:"description";s:4081:"(ARA) - When the weekend arrives, going out to a local establishment to meet up with your friends to relax and enjoy your time off is a time-honored tradition. But going out involves a lot of planning and coordination - not to mention the money you'll inevitably drop on food, bar tabs and transportation. The good news is with the right modifications to your home, you can make a night in seem just like a night on the town.
Turning a room or part of your home into a bar or recreational area can make your abode a destination in itself, as you'll have the comforts of the pub within the privacy of home. When trying to make your home an entertaining destination, focus on the things that you and your friends enjoy about your favorite hangouts. Here are a few improvements to consider as you construct your space:
* Start with the bar. Your bar will provide both a place to distribute food and drinks to your guests, as well as a central place to gather for conversation. Depending on your taste, you could go with a classic horizontal bar, or an L-shaped bar that promotes more face time and conversation. Make a wish list: Is it to be a wet bar plumbed for a sink, and do you have ample power to supply the fridge, blender, stereo and other electronic equipment? Don't forget the ergonomic layout - is the barware within easy reach and the fridge easily accessible?
* Build to accommodate accessories. It goes without saying that a refrigerator is a must, but areas with limited space might not accommodate a full-size refrigerator. Compact under-counter models are perfect in this situation. Typically 24 inches wide and counter-high, these are available in a variety of styles, including wine fridges, beverage centers or kegerators. Determining how you entertain is key says Steve Atkinson, senior marketing manager for Danby Products. "Our Silhouette Select Party Center was designed with entertaining in mind. This unique space-saving fridge offers three separate temperature zones for wine, beverage and ice production in one sleek stainless steel-wrapped package. It's competitively priced, offering extremely good value for the money."
* Distinguish with bar decor. One of the more subtle ways to make your home bar feel more like the real thing is paying special attention to lighting and decor. Adding light fixtures above the bar will draw visitors in. Incorporating a mirror into the back bar will evoke the classic pub look, but the real reason you see mirrors behind bars is because they make the area feel larger than it actually is - a plus when you're working with limited space. Use vintage beer signs or sports memorabilia to inject your own personality into your entertaining area.
* Entertainment. If you have the space, installing a pool table, dart board or other favorite bar games can greatly add to the fun. If you install a TV, consider adding it in a place where it can be seen from almost anywhere in the room, yet doesn't dominate the space or get in the way of conversation and interaction. If you're pressed for space, place card games and board games nearby, as they can make for great ice-breakers.
* Set a vibe. The music selection is a key ingredient to the atmosphere in any bar, so you'll want to give some thought to the sound system you use. One option is to connect your system to your patio, so you can play tunes inside and out. Otherwise, nothing exudes a warm and inviting sound than a vintage turntable. If you and your friends are audiophiles, a record player is all you need for a night of conversation and audio delight.
Constructing a bar might require a little investment up front, but you'll quickly began to recoup your expenses as you spend more time at home instead of going out. And when you build your own space, you can combine all the elements of your favorite watering holes. By adding your own personality to your space, you can build something that's sure to become your friends' new favorite destination.";s:7:"summary";s:4081:"(ARA) - When the weekend arrives, going out to a local establishment to meet up with your friends to relax and enjoy your time off is a time-honored tradition. But going out involves a lot of planning and coordination - not to mention the money you'll inevitably drop on food, bar tabs and transportation. The good news is with the right modifications to your home, you can make a night in seem just like a night on the town.
Turning a room or part of your home into a bar or recreational area can make your abode a destination in itself, as you'll have the comforts of the pub within the privacy of home. When trying to make your home an entertaining destination, focus on the things that you and your friends enjoy about your favorite hangouts. Here are a few improvements to consider as you construct your space:
* Start with the bar. Your bar will provide both a place to distribute food and drinks to your guests, as well as a central place to gather for conversation. Depending on your taste, you could go with a classic horizontal bar, or an L-shaped bar that promotes more face time and conversation. Make a wish list: Is it to be a wet bar plumbed for a sink, and do you have ample power to supply the fridge, blender, stereo and other electronic equipment? Don't forget the ergonomic layout - is the barware within easy reach and the fridge easily accessible?
* Build to accommodate accessories. It goes without saying that a refrigerator is a must, but areas with limited space might not accommodate a full-size refrigerator. Compact under-counter models are perfect in this situation. Typically 24 inches wide and counter-high, these are available in a variety of styles, including wine fridges, beverage centers or kegerators. Determining how you entertain is key says Steve Atkinson, senior marketing manager for Danby Products. "Our Silhouette Select Party Center was designed with entertaining in mind. This unique space-saving fridge offers three separate temperature zones for wine, beverage and ice production in one sleek stainless steel-wrapped package. It's competitively priced, offering extremely good value for the money."
* Distinguish with bar decor. One of the more subtle ways to make your home bar feel more like the real thing is paying special attention to lighting and decor. Adding light fixtures above the bar will draw visitors in. Incorporating a mirror into the back bar will evoke the classic pub look, but the real reason you see mirrors behind bars is because they make the area feel larger than it actually is - a plus when you're working with limited space. Use vintage beer signs or sports memorabilia to inject your own personality into your entertaining area.
* Entertainment. If you have the space, installing a pool table, dart board or other favorite bar games can greatly add to the fun. If you install a TV, consider adding it in a place where it can be seen from almost anywhere in the room, yet doesn't dominate the space or get in the way of conversation and interaction. If you're pressed for space, place card games and board games nearby, as they can make for great ice-breakers.
* Set a vibe. The music selection is a key ingredient to the atmosphere in any bar, so you'll want to give some thought to the sound system you use. One option is to connect your system to your patio, so you can play tunes inside and out. Otherwise, nothing exudes a warm and inviting sound than a vintage turntable. If you and your friends are audiophiles, a record player is all you need for a night of conversation and audio delight.
Constructing a bar might require a little investment up front, but you'll quickly began to recoup your expenses as you spend more time at home instead of going out. And when you build your own space, you can combine all the elements of your favorite watering holes. By adding your own personality to your space, you can build something that's sure to become your friends' new favorite destination.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1317960000;}i:19;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:27:"Achieve winter home comfort";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8054720306";s:7:"pubdate";s:8:"1/9/2012";s:11:"description";s:4458:"(ARA) - If you're a homeowner, you probably know that home winterization is essential if you want to increase energy efficiency and comfort during the winter. In addition to the usual quick fixes, there are a few important tasks to keep in mind when preparing both the interior and exterior of your home for the harsh weather ahead.
Outside
Believe it or not, the roof plays a big role when it comes to controlling the comfort in your home. Even more, heavy snowfall and ice can lead to severe damage throughout your home if you don't have a healthy roof.
Winter weather can cause the creation of ice dams. Walls of ice form at the edge of the roof when snow melts and runs down the roof, reaches the cold eaves and refreezes. If you don't have the proper protection, the ice pushes under the shingles, which will cause leaks into the attic or along exterior walls, resulting in water damage that can be expensive to repair.
Make sure you keep an eye out for icicles on your roof throughout the winter. Safety should always be your first priority. Icicles are dangerous because not only can they break off and fall from the roof, but the weight of the icicles can also cause a gutter or awning to fall. If you're worried about potential damage, hire a roofing contractor to inspect your roof to remove icicles or make any repairs before problems arise.
If your roofing contractor determines you need a new roof, use Owens Corning Deck Defense underlayment and WeatherLock Self-Sealing Ice & Water Barrier Products in conjunction with high-performance shingles to help shield your home from moisture infiltration. These two layers of a roofing system are important because they provide extra water-shedding protection under the shingles.
"Ice and water barrier products directly beneath the shingles stop water from getting into the house," says Mel Sancrant, product technical specialist at Owens Corning. "But, it's also important to maintain adequate insulation in your attic to prevent ice dams by making sure you keep the attic at the same temperature as the outside with proper ventilation and insulation."
Inside
In the winter, the warm moist air generated by laundry, showers and other household activities can cause moisture build-up in the home. This moist air becomes a water vapor that transfers through your ceiling into the attic. Proper ventilation helps remove the moisture while it's still a vapor and exhaust it out through the vents located at the top of the house.
Insulation will help maintain a comfortable temperature inside the home and promote energy efficiency. It can also reduce the amount of heat loss in your home if installed according to the Department of Energy's (DOE) recommendation for your region. Excessive heat loss through your attic can contribute to ice damming, so proper ventilation and a well insulated home are part of a healthy roof system.
To determine if you need more insulation, simply measure what you have. Most experts agree your attic should have at least a 19 inch deep layer of insulation or you could be wasting money. If your attic falls short of the DOE recommendation for your region and the type of heating and cooling system you have installed, then add another layer of insulation. The DOE's Energy Star website features a chart that clearly showcases the recommended level of attic insulation in each region in the United States.
There are other ways to make energy-efficient updates to your home, such caulking, weather stripping or adding an attic stairway insulator, to easily and effectively increase comfort and reduce heating costs.
A home energy audit with a qualified professional ensures a thorough inspection. In addition to helping you identify if your home is properly insulated and air sealed, the professional will shed light on ways you can conserve hot water and electricity.
Ensure your home has a healthy roof, proper insulation and an adequate air sealing system if you want to achieve an optimal level of comfort and energy efficiency in your home and protect it from the elements this winter.";s:7:"summary";s:4458:"(ARA) - If you're a homeowner, you probably know that home winterization is essential if you want to increase energy efficiency and comfort during the winter. In addition to the usual quick fixes, there are a few important tasks to keep in mind when preparing both the interior and exterior of your home for the harsh weather ahead.
Outside
Believe it or not, the roof plays a big role when it comes to controlling the comfort in your home. Even more, heavy snowfall and ice can lead to severe damage throughout your home if you don't have a healthy roof.
Winter weather can cause the creation of ice dams. Walls of ice form at the edge of the roof when snow melts and runs down the roof, reaches the cold eaves and refreezes. If you don't have the proper protection, the ice pushes under the shingles, which will cause leaks into the attic or along exterior walls, resulting in water damage that can be expensive to repair.
Make sure you keep an eye out for icicles on your roof throughout the winter. Safety should always be your first priority. Icicles are dangerous because not only can they break off and fall from the roof, but the weight of the icicles can also cause a gutter or awning to fall. If you're worried about potential damage, hire a roofing contractor to inspect your roof to remove icicles or make any repairs before problems arise.
If your roofing contractor determines you need a new roof, use Owens Corning Deck Defense underlayment and WeatherLock Self-Sealing Ice & Water Barrier Products in conjunction with high-performance shingles to help shield your home from moisture infiltration. These two layers of a roofing system are important because they provide extra water-shedding protection under the shingles.
"Ice and water barrier products directly beneath the shingles stop water from getting into the house," says Mel Sancrant, product technical specialist at Owens Corning. "But, it's also important to maintain adequate insulation in your attic to prevent ice dams by making sure you keep the attic at the same temperature as the outside with proper ventilation and insulation."
Inside
In the winter, the warm moist air generated by laundry, showers and other household activities can cause moisture build-up in the home. This moist air becomes a water vapor that transfers through your ceiling into the attic. Proper ventilation helps remove the moisture while it's still a vapor and exhaust it out through the vents located at the top of the house.
Insulation will help maintain a comfortable temperature inside the home and promote energy efficiency. It can also reduce the amount of heat loss in your home if installed according to the Department of Energy's (DOE) recommendation for your region. Excessive heat loss through your attic can contribute to ice damming, so proper ventilation and a well insulated home are part of a healthy roof system.
To determine if you need more insulation, simply measure what you have. Most experts agree your attic should have at least a 19 inch deep layer of insulation or you could be wasting money. If your attic falls short of the DOE recommendation for your region and the type of heating and cooling system you have installed, then add another layer of insulation. The DOE's Energy Star website features a chart that clearly showcases the recommended level of attic insulation in each region in the United States.
There are other ways to make energy-efficient updates to your home, such caulking, weather stripping or adding an attic stairway insulator, to easily and effectively increase comfort and reduce heating costs.
A home energy audit with a qualified professional ensures a thorough inspection. In addition to helping you identify if your home is properly insulated and air sealed, the professional will shed light on ways you can conserve hot water and electricity.
Ensure your home has a healthy roof, proper insulation and an adequate air sealing system if you want to achieve an optimal level of comfort and energy efficiency in your home and protect it from the elements this winter.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1326085200;}i:20;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:32:"Home how-to for the simple fixer";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8060750101";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"12/15/2011";s:11:"description";s:2633:"(ARA) - Eventually, that household project that you have been putting off cannot be avoided any longer. But if you're like most homeowners, you will quickly give up on the DIY route and settle for something less daunting, like calling in a professional.
Before you sell yourself short, consider following some of these simple DIY do's and don'ts to make tackling your home improvement project a little more manageable and affordable.
* Do recognize your limits - It's OK if you can't handle the entire kitchen remodel on your own. Identify what components you can tackle solo before getting quotes for the project. Handling things like paint jobs and new cabinet hardware can help bring down overall costs. More often than not, the right tools also make a big difference. Also, it's OK to ask a friend or family member for help - two hands are better than one. Just be sure to return the favor when the time comes.
* Don't underestimate the power of glue. From installing tile backsplashes and in-wall cabinets to sealing gutters and downspouts, high-performance adhesives are a must-have for every home. The Loctite brand is suitable for multiple DIY uses, including upgrades and repairs. So forget about tossing that broken lamp to the curb or replacing that loose drawer handle. A little glue goes a long way. To learn more about what adhesive is right for your project, visit the Loctite Product Advisor at www.loctiteproducts.com/product_advisor/.
* Do develop a mental picture - Before rushing into home projects, take the time to really envision what you want out of the renovation or update. Is the goal to make your kitchen more modern? Are you looking to maximize space in the bathroom? Pictures can help bring these goals to life. Stock up on magazines and pull out any photos that capture the essence of your project.
* Don't rush - We are all familiar with old adage "haste makes waste." Haste also can be costly. Do your homework before tackling home updates. Decide where to begin and carefully plan each step of the process. This includes taking accurate measurements, using effective tools and comparing prices on building materials.
Keep in mind that you won't do yourself any favors by shrugging off advice or not planning in advance. Remodeling industry professionals report that between 25 and 30 percent of their work comes from fixing DIY debacles. While there are sure to be a few hiccups along the way, you will discover a new sense of pride and empowerment once your project is completed.";s:7:"summary";s:2633:"(ARA) - Eventually, that household project that you have been putting off cannot be avoided any longer. But if you're like most homeowners, you will quickly give up on the DIY route and settle for something less daunting, like calling in a professional.
Before you sell yourself short, consider following some of these simple DIY do's and don'ts to make tackling your home improvement project a little more manageable and affordable.
* Do recognize your limits - It's OK if you can't handle the entire kitchen remodel on your own. Identify what components you can tackle solo before getting quotes for the project. Handling things like paint jobs and new cabinet hardware can help bring down overall costs. More often than not, the right tools also make a big difference. Also, it's OK to ask a friend or family member for help - two hands are better than one. Just be sure to return the favor when the time comes.
* Don't underestimate the power of glue. From installing tile backsplashes and in-wall cabinets to sealing gutters and downspouts, high-performance adhesives are a must-have for every home. The Loctite brand is suitable for multiple DIY uses, including upgrades and repairs. So forget about tossing that broken lamp to the curb or replacing that loose drawer handle. A little glue goes a long way. To learn more about what adhesive is right for your project, visit the Loctite Product Advisor at www.loctiteproducts.com/product_advisor/.
* Do develop a mental picture - Before rushing into home projects, take the time to really envision what you want out of the renovation or update. Is the goal to make your kitchen more modern? Are you looking to maximize space in the bathroom? Pictures can help bring these goals to life. Stock up on magazines and pull out any photos that capture the essence of your project.
* Don't rush - We are all familiar with old adage "haste makes waste." Haste also can be costly. Do your homework before tackling home updates. Decide where to begin and carefully plan each step of the process. This includes taking accurate measurements, using effective tools and comparing prices on building materials.
Keep in mind that you won't do yourself any favors by shrugging off advice or not planning in advance. Remodeling industry professionals report that between 25 and 30 percent of their work comes from fixing DIY debacles. While there are sure to be a few hiccups along the way, you will discover a new sense of pride and empowerment once your project is completed.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1323925200;}i:21;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:55:"Bathroom remodeling ideas: from small to total overhaul";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8052690810";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"12/15/2011";s:11:"description";s:2892:"(ARA) - Ready to give your bathroom a facelift, but can't decide what changes to make? From tubs to toilets to tile, the sky is the limit when it comes to bathroom renovations, even if budget is not.
Whether you are planning some small do-it-yourself changes, or a major overhaul, here are some fresh ideas for bathroom remodeling that will help you build the smart, stylish, and functional bathroom of your dreams.
Start living large
Feeling crowded in a small bathroom? For a small-budget fix-up, replace your old space-wasting vanity with a smart open-design style that maximizes storage, while visually opening up the room. If your project is major and you are opening the walls, replace your floor-mounted toilet in favor of a wall-mounted toilet, such as Porcher Solutions Dual Flush toilet, which stows the water tank behind the wall. The Porcher Solutions toilet is water-wise, as well as space-savvy, and the EverClean surface inhibits the growth of stain and odor causing bacteria, mold and mildew on the surface.
Focus on your faucet
If you have a small budget, making a simple change like updating a bathroom faucet and accessories can still have a dramatic impact on the style of the room. Faucets with the Speed Connect drain can be installed in minutes, and reflect any decor choice, from traditional to minimalist in popular finishes such as oil-rubbed bronze and polished chrome. Change light fixtures and drawer pulls to match your faucet, splurge on some updated colors for towels and rugs and you have a beautiful before-and-after makeover of your very own.
Think accessible
A bathroom remodel is a great time to invest in fixtures that will allow you and your loved ones to remain independent in your home through illness, aging or other unforeseen events. The best products also work great and feel terrific in the here and now. A taller, Right Height toilet is a luxurious comfort. If you rarely use your bathtub, it can be easily replaced with an acrylic seated-safety shower unit that simply slides into your existing tub recess. Optional acrylic surrounds are easy to install and easy to keep clean, while the integral seat provides a safe option for both bathing and shaving.
Go green to save green
The cost of water will be rising, so get ahead of the curve by choosing toilets, faucets and showerheads that carry the EPA's WaterSense certification label. The label assures that you won't be sacrificing performance. Visit www.responsiblebathroom.com for a wide range of WaterSense-certified products and a handy calculator so you can watch your water, and money, savings add up.";s:7:"summary";s:2892:"(ARA) - Ready to give your bathroom a facelift, but can't decide what changes to make? From tubs to toilets to tile, the sky is the limit when it comes to bathroom renovations, even if budget is not.
Whether you are planning some small do-it-yourself changes, or a major overhaul, here are some fresh ideas for bathroom remodeling that will help you build the smart, stylish, and functional bathroom of your dreams.
Start living large
Feeling crowded in a small bathroom? For a small-budget fix-up, replace your old space-wasting vanity with a smart open-design style that maximizes storage, while visually opening up the room. If your project is major and you are opening the walls, replace your floor-mounted toilet in favor of a wall-mounted toilet, such as Porcher Solutions Dual Flush toilet, which stows the water tank behind the wall. The Porcher Solutions toilet is water-wise, as well as space-savvy, and the EverClean surface inhibits the growth of stain and odor causing bacteria, mold and mildew on the surface.
Focus on your faucet
If you have a small budget, making a simple change like updating a bathroom faucet and accessories can still have a dramatic impact on the style of the room. Faucets with the Speed Connect drain can be installed in minutes, and reflect any decor choice, from traditional to minimalist in popular finishes such as oil-rubbed bronze and polished chrome. Change light fixtures and drawer pulls to match your faucet, splurge on some updated colors for towels and rugs and you have a beautiful before-and-after makeover of your very own.
Think accessible
A bathroom remodel is a great time to invest in fixtures that will allow you and your loved ones to remain independent in your home through illness, aging or other unforeseen events. The best products also work great and feel terrific in the here and now. A taller, Right Height toilet is a luxurious comfort. If you rarely use your bathtub, it can be easily replaced with an acrylic seated-safety shower unit that simply slides into your existing tub recess. Optional acrylic surrounds are easy to install and easy to keep clean, while the integral seat provides a safe option for both bathing and shaving.
Go green to save green
The cost of water will be rising, so get ahead of the curve by choosing toilets, faucets and showerheads that carry the EPA's WaterSense certification label. The label assures that you won't be sacrificing performance. Visit www.responsiblebathroom.com for a wide range of WaterSense-certified products and a handy calculator so you can watch your water, and money, savings add up.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1323925200;}i:22;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:52:"Why winter is the right time to plan outdoor updates";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8055950707";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"11/22/2011";s:11:"description";s:3666:"(ARA) - Does the bitter cold weather have you dreaming of warm days spending time with friends and family in your backyard? The cold may keep us indoors, but professionals in the landscape and remodeling industry are still thinking about the outdoors and use the winter months to plan spring projects, and so should you.
Winter months provide the perfect opportunity to prepare your outdoor space for the warmer months. Planning and prepping now will ensure that you get full use of your outdoor space for the entire season once warm weather arrives. Get a head start by planning some of these spring projects now:
Grass
Before you know it, you'll be peeling off your wool socks and walking around your yard feeling the soft grass between your toes. To ensure a lush lawn, spend time this winter researching grass seed options so you can repair any sparse areas in your yard. Planting grass seed early gives the seed plenty of time to germinate which will give you a healthy, green lawn in the spring. In addition to research, you can also chat with someone at your local nursery for help choosing the appropriate type of grass to plant in the early months of spring.
Bulbs
Some bulbs grow best when planted in the early spring when the ground is still cool. Do some research to figure out the best bulbs for your region so you can determine the ideal planting time. There's nothing better than having a yard full of colorful flowers providing great curb appeal early in the season.
Deck
Sitting on your deck enjoying warm, sunny days or cooler evenings is something everyone looks forward to. Adding a new deck to your home or replacing an existing one adds value to your real estate investment. Homeowners have been consistently choosing composite decking over wooden decks over the past several years because composite decking is high performance and low maintenance, unlike wood decking which can splinter and crack, and often requires staining and sealing. Composite decking is long-lasting, durable, made of recycled materials, and resists mildew, warping and insects. According to Remodeling magazine 2009-10 Cost vs. Value Report, adding a composite deck to your home has a 70 percent return on investment.
You can find free online tools to help you plan your new decking project during winter months. Visit www.timbertech.com to learn which decking materials are best for you by taking a quick quiz. Create free deck designs with the Online Deck Designer. Mix and match decking and railing colors with the Color Visualizer and be inspired by other deck designs in the Photo Gallery. Before you know it, you'll have the perfect plan for your dream deck so when warm weather hits, you're ready.
Trees and shrubs
As you're deciding on the deck, consider a plan to plant trees and/or shrubbery to provide a more natural outdoor atmosphere. The right type of landscaping will not only be visually appealing, but will also provide privacy and shade. Planting your selections early can have many benefits including time for each tree or shrub to establish a strong root system so that it flourishes for many years to come.
Stop dreaming of warm weather and put that energy into planning your outdoor space. From decking to landscape updates, your efforts during the winter months will bloom into big results once the spring thaw hits.";s:7:"summary";s:3666:"(ARA) - Does the bitter cold weather have you dreaming of warm days spending time with friends and family in your backyard? The cold may keep us indoors, but professionals in the landscape and remodeling industry are still thinking about the outdoors and use the winter months to plan spring projects, and so should you.
Winter months provide the perfect opportunity to prepare your outdoor space for the warmer months. Planning and prepping now will ensure that you get full use of your outdoor space for the entire season once warm weather arrives. Get a head start by planning some of these spring projects now:
Grass
Before you know it, you'll be peeling off your wool socks and walking around your yard feeling the soft grass between your toes. To ensure a lush lawn, spend time this winter researching grass seed options so you can repair any sparse areas in your yard. Planting grass seed early gives the seed plenty of time to germinate which will give you a healthy, green lawn in the spring. In addition to research, you can also chat with someone at your local nursery for help choosing the appropriate type of grass to plant in the early months of spring.
Bulbs
Some bulbs grow best when planted in the early spring when the ground is still cool. Do some research to figure out the best bulbs for your region so you can determine the ideal planting time. There's nothing better than having a yard full of colorful flowers providing great curb appeal early in the season.
Deck
Sitting on your deck enjoying warm, sunny days or cooler evenings is something everyone looks forward to. Adding a new deck to your home or replacing an existing one adds value to your real estate investment. Homeowners have been consistently choosing composite decking over wooden decks over the past several years because composite decking is high performance and low maintenance, unlike wood decking which can splinter and crack, and often requires staining and sealing. Composite decking is long-lasting, durable, made of recycled materials, and resists mildew, warping and insects. According to Remodeling magazine 2009-10 Cost vs. Value Report, adding a composite deck to your home has a 70 percent return on investment.
You can find free online tools to help you plan your new decking project during winter months. Visit www.timbertech.com to learn which decking materials are best for you by taking a quick quiz. Create free deck designs with the Online Deck Designer. Mix and match decking and railing colors with the Color Visualizer and be inspired by other deck designs in the Photo Gallery. Before you know it, you'll have the perfect plan for your dream deck so when warm weather hits, you're ready.
Trees and shrubs
As you're deciding on the deck, consider a plan to plant trees and/or shrubbery to provide a more natural outdoor atmosphere. The right type of landscaping will not only be visually appealing, but will also provide privacy and shade. Planting your selections early can have many benefits including time for each tree or shrub to establish a strong root system so that it flourishes for many years to come.
Stop dreaming of warm weather and put that energy into planning your outdoor space. From decking to landscape updates, your efforts during the winter months will bloom into big results once the spring thaw hits.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1321938000;}i:23;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:49:"A guide to the best ice melters for tough winters";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8057830404";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"12/13/2011";s:11:"description";s:3589:"(ARA) - Most homeowners reach for rock salt to clear their driveways and sidewalks during winter. It's economical and reliable, and it easily melts ice in temperatures as low as 5 degrees Fahrenheit to keep driveways and sidewalks clear and safe.
But when the temperature dips lower, salt alternatives such as magnesium chloride or calcium chloride offer increased melting power. Of the two, magnesium chloride is a better choice for homeowners, according to Jerry Poe, technical director for North American Salt Company.
"Both magnesium chloride and calcium chloride are fast-acting and melt ice and snow at extremely low temperatures compared with rock salt and other salt alternatives and blends," says Poe. "But because magnesium chloride is nontoxic, it is safer for homeowners, their pets and their property, so it ultimately provides a better value for the dollar. It's tough on ice and snow, but safe on everything else."
The chemical makeup of pure calcium chloride can burn skin, so it requires homeowners to wear goggles and gloves when applying it. It can also burn pets' paws and draw moisture from plant roots, effectively dehydrating vegetation.
Magnesium chloride, on the other hand, is naturally extracted from sea water or brine, produced through solar evaporation, which is an environmentally friendly process. Its chemical makeup is much gentler than calcium chloride - in fact, it's less toxic than baking soda - so it is safe for homeowners to handle.
Magnesium chloride is also safer for pets because it doesn't burn paws that have been cracked in cold temperatures, and it is less likely to clump between a pet's paw pads. And, it is gentler on grass and plants, so homeowners who use magnesium chloride products and follow application instructions are less likely to have to repair or replace landscaping in the spring.
Concrete maintenance can also be an issue for homeowners who live in colder climates. "Many people think that ice melt products cause damage to concrete, but the real culprit is the freeze/thaw cycle," says Poe. "When ice melts, the resulting liquid works its way into cracks in the concrete. When the liquid refreezes, it expands and causes further cracking or spalling."
The solution? After using an ice melt product, Poe recommends removing the resulting slush and brine before it has a chance to refreeze. Opting for magnesium chloride rather than calcium chloride will further prevent concrete damage.
"A recent study at Purdue University revealed that concrete treated with calcium chloride deteriorated two times faster than concrete treated with magnesium chloride. The calcium chloride chemically attacks concrete, even before freeze/thaw cycles take place," says Poe.
While magnesium chloride used to be available only to ice control professionals, today it is available to homeowners in several forms. For example, the Safe Step line of packaged deicers offers a 100 percent magnesium chloride product as well as several ice melt blends that contain the ingredient.
When evaluating different ice melt products, check the packaging to see if magnesium chloride is part of the product formula, and whether the product is labeled as safe for people, plants and pets. A bit of education and planning before the first storm hits can help you have a safe and enjoyable winter, even when temperatures plummet.";s:7:"summary";s:3589:"(ARA) - Most homeowners reach for rock salt to clear their driveways and sidewalks during winter. It's economical and reliable, and it easily melts ice in temperatures as low as 5 degrees Fahrenheit to keep driveways and sidewalks clear and safe.
But when the temperature dips lower, salt alternatives such as magnesium chloride or calcium chloride offer increased melting power. Of the two, magnesium chloride is a better choice for homeowners, according to Jerry Poe, technical director for North American Salt Company.
"Both magnesium chloride and calcium chloride are fast-acting and melt ice and snow at extremely low temperatures compared with rock salt and other salt alternatives and blends," says Poe. "But because magnesium chloride is nontoxic, it is safer for homeowners, their pets and their property, so it ultimately provides a better value for the dollar. It's tough on ice and snow, but safe on everything else."
The chemical makeup of pure calcium chloride can burn skin, so it requires homeowners to wear goggles and gloves when applying it. It can also burn pets' paws and draw moisture from plant roots, effectively dehydrating vegetation.
Magnesium chloride, on the other hand, is naturally extracted from sea water or brine, produced through solar evaporation, which is an environmentally friendly process. Its chemical makeup is much gentler than calcium chloride - in fact, it's less toxic than baking soda - so it is safe for homeowners to handle.
Magnesium chloride is also safer for pets because it doesn't burn paws that have been cracked in cold temperatures, and it is less likely to clump between a pet's paw pads. And, it is gentler on grass and plants, so homeowners who use magnesium chloride products and follow application instructions are less likely to have to repair or replace landscaping in the spring.
Concrete maintenance can also be an issue for homeowners who live in colder climates. "Many people think that ice melt products cause damage to concrete, but the real culprit is the freeze/thaw cycle," says Poe. "When ice melts, the resulting liquid works its way into cracks in the concrete. When the liquid refreezes, it expands and causes further cracking or spalling."
The solution? After using an ice melt product, Poe recommends removing the resulting slush and brine before it has a chance to refreeze. Opting for magnesium chloride rather than calcium chloride will further prevent concrete damage.
"A recent study at Purdue University revealed that concrete treated with calcium chloride deteriorated two times faster than concrete treated with magnesium chloride. The calcium chloride chemically attacks concrete, even before freeze/thaw cycles take place," says Poe.
While magnesium chloride used to be available only to ice control professionals, today it is available to homeowners in several forms. For example, the Safe Step line of packaged deicers offers a 100 percent magnesium chloride product as well as several ice melt blends that contain the ingredient.
When evaluating different ice melt products, check the packaging to see if magnesium chloride is part of the product formula, and whether the product is labeled as safe for people, plants and pets. A bit of education and planning before the first storm hits can help you have a safe and enjoyable winter, even when temperatures plummet.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1323752400;}i:24;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:72:"Vanity sanity: Organize wisely to bring style and space to your bathroom";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8053833960";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"10/20/2011";s:11:"description";s:3293:"(ARA) - It's the room where you start and end your day, so it should be one of the most enjoyable places in your home. But, most of the time, your bathroom is not the relaxing retreat you hoped it would be. Whether it is overrun with towels and toiletries - or is tough to keep clean with smudged mirrors and faucets - today's bathrooms are in need of some serious updates and organization. Luckily, a few simple tips and tricks can bring style and sanity to your bathroom vanity in no time.
Furniture fix
Furniture pieces can add style, color, warmth, and most importantly, a place to store your bathroom necessities out of sight. Even if your bathroom is small, you may still be able to find room for a small shelf or chest. Large bathrooms have the luxury of added storage space offered by a stylish cupboard, shelving unit or armoire. Lowe's has a variety of linen and storage cabinets that you can browse to find the best fit for your bathroom's dimensions.
Fancy faucets
Haven't updated your bathroom fixtures in a while? The new Boardwalk bath collection from Moen can take your faucets from drab to fab with their glamorous vintage looks. Available exclusively at Lowe's, Boardwalk centerset and widespread faucets are certified to meet WaterSense criteria, reducing water usage by up to 32 percent. The best part is that they feature Moen's new Spot Resist finish that does just what it says - resists fingerprints and water spots. Now you can add style to the bath since you won't waste time cleaning.
Organize odds and ends
Have your bathroom drawers become a catch-all for hotel samples and unused cosmetics? Then it's time to sort, purge and organize. Once you've decided what you cannot live without, find a spot for everything. Try gathering your bathroom cleaning supplies and store them together in a handled tote under your sink or in an upper cupboard. For smaller items, Containerstore.com offers a host of drawer organizers and bins to hold your bathroom essentials.
Store items in style
Don't have much wall space? According to an online consumer survey conducted by Moen Incorporated, 19 percent of men and 22 percent of women state that leaving dirty clothes on the bathroom floor is a top annoyance in the bath. Freeing the floor can be simple. Store your items in style by installing racks, towel bars and robe hooks to hang extra towels, clothes or bathrobes. The back of the door is an often overlooked area to install these essentials.
And don't forget about your countertop. Soap, bath salts, and other bathroom essentials that you need to keep within reach can also quickly create unwanted clutter. Organize these items in style by incorporating glass bath accessories into your decor. For small spaces, place the canisters on a decorative wall shelf or just arrange by the sink for a chic and simple look.
For an updated bathroom, minus the mess, these quick tips will help you keep your sanity and organize your vanity.";s:7:"summary";s:3293:"(ARA) - It's the room where you start and end your day, so it should be one of the most enjoyable places in your home. But, most of the time, your bathroom is not the relaxing retreat you hoped it would be. Whether it is overrun with towels and toiletries - or is tough to keep clean with smudged mirrors and faucets - today's bathrooms are in need of some serious updates and organization. Luckily, a few simple tips and tricks can bring style and sanity to your bathroom vanity in no time.
Furniture fix
Furniture pieces can add style, color, warmth, and most importantly, a place to store your bathroom necessities out of sight. Even if your bathroom is small, you may still be able to find room for a small shelf or chest. Large bathrooms have the luxury of added storage space offered by a stylish cupboard, shelving unit or armoire. Lowe's has a variety of linen and storage cabinets that you can browse to find the best fit for your bathroom's dimensions.
Fancy faucets
Haven't updated your bathroom fixtures in a while? The new Boardwalk bath collection from Moen can take your faucets from drab to fab with their glamorous vintage looks. Available exclusively at Lowe's, Boardwalk centerset and widespread faucets are certified to meet WaterSense criteria, reducing water usage by up to 32 percent. The best part is that they feature Moen's new Spot Resist finish that does just what it says - resists fingerprints and water spots. Now you can add style to the bath since you won't waste time cleaning.
Organize odds and ends
Have your bathroom drawers become a catch-all for hotel samples and unused cosmetics? Then it's time to sort, purge and organize. Once you've decided what you cannot live without, find a spot for everything. Try gathering your bathroom cleaning supplies and store them together in a handled tote under your sink or in an upper cupboard. For smaller items, Containerstore.com offers a host of drawer organizers and bins to hold your bathroom essentials.
Store items in style
Don't have much wall space? According to an online consumer survey conducted by Moen Incorporated, 19 percent of men and 22 percent of women state that leaving dirty clothes on the bathroom floor is a top annoyance in the bath. Freeing the floor can be simple. Store your items in style by installing racks, towel bars and robe hooks to hang extra towels, clothes or bathrobes. The back of the door is an often overlooked area to install these essentials.
And don't forget about your countertop. Soap, bath salts, and other bathroom essentials that you need to keep within reach can also quickly create unwanted clutter. Organize these items in style by incorporating glass bath accessories into your decor. For small spaces, place the canisters on a decorative wall shelf or just arrange by the sink for a chic and simple look.
For an updated bathroom, minus the mess, these quick tips will help you keep your sanity and organize your vanity.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1319083200;}i:25;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:67:"DIY insulation projects make for a more comfortable home year round";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8054720606";s:7:"pubdate";s:8:"2/1/2012";s:11:"description";s:4269:"(ARA) - Do-it-yourself home improvement projects are more popular than ever, as homeowners are looking for simple, low cost ways to update their household and increase overall home efficiency. Kitchen upgrades and a fresh coat of paint can make a big difference aesthetically, but sometimes the most effective DIY projects happen in areas not always visible.
For example, small insulation changes are easy and can help improve indoor comfort. Additionally, ensuring adequate insulation can have a significant positive impact on your monthly heating and cooling costs year round.
While it may seem as though your home is airtight, cracks and gaps that are not easily seen can cause air infiltration, as well as the loss of conditioned indoor air. Not only can reduced air infiltration cut the cost of energy bills, it can also help improve the indoor air quality of the home.
"Now is a great time to tackle those air sealing and insulating projects to ensure your home is as comfortable as possible this winter season," says Matt Girand, director of products and programs for Owens Corning Residential Insulation, LLC. "From insulating to sealing around windows and doors, there are a number of DIY options available to homeowners that can be completed in as little as one hour, but will last year round."
Start from the top
The core of a home's comfort and energy efficiency lies in its insulation, and adding a layer of insulation in your attic can be completed in a few easy steps. First, determine how much insulation is already in your attic, the Department of Energy (DOE) recommends a minimum of 18 inches of attic insulation for most areas of the United States. As a general rule, if you can see the floor joists in your attic, your insulation is not thick enough. Owens Corning offers a number of tools, including an insulation calculator to help homeowners determine exactly what they'll need to insulate their home.
Adding a layer of insulation to your attic is easy, fast and affordable. Owens Corning(TM) EcoTouch(R) insulation will bring more comfort to your home and reduce monthly heating and cooling costs year round. Although savings vary, you can find out why in the seller's fact sheet on R-values. Higher R-values mean greater insulating power. EcoTouch Insulation is manufactured with 58 percent recycled content and verified to be formaldehyde free.
Seal it up
Cracks along windows and doors allow air and pollutants to seep into the home, and conditioned air to exit. To determine where air leaks might be located in your home, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends checking areas such as baseboards, or around doors and wall or window-mounted air conditioners, for signs such as missing weather stripping that indicate air might be filtering in and out. Gaps around pipes and wires, electrical outlets and foundation seals should also be examined. If you have difficulty locating leaks, visit EnergySavers.gov to learn how to execute a basic building pressurization test.
Once you've uncovered the location of the leaks in your home, the next step is to address the problem. Hardware stores sell self-adhering weather stripping and window insulation kits that are affordable and effective. To close gaps around pipes and vents, consider purchasing caulk to seal the opening.
Ventilate
Proper ventilation is also important to ensure optimal indoor air quality. According to The Alliance for Healthy Homes, proper ventilation can control indoor humidity and airborne contaminants. One way to promote ventilation in areas of the home that may be more susceptible to moisture is to install exterior exhaust fans. Commonly needed in a home's kitchen or bathrooms, exterior fans help push damp air outside.
Whether you reside in a warm climate or the Snow Belt, proper insulation and ventilation in the home can result in better indoor air quality and greater comfort, for the winter season and beyond. For more information, visit www.OwensCorning.com.";s:7:"summary";s:4269:"(ARA) - Do-it-yourself home improvement projects are more popular than ever, as homeowners are looking for simple, low cost ways to update their household and increase overall home efficiency. Kitchen upgrades and a fresh coat of paint can make a big difference aesthetically, but sometimes the most effective DIY projects happen in areas not always visible.
For example, small insulation changes are easy and can help improve indoor comfort. Additionally, ensuring adequate insulation can have a significant positive impact on your monthly heating and cooling costs year round.
While it may seem as though your home is airtight, cracks and gaps that are not easily seen can cause air infiltration, as well as the loss of conditioned indoor air. Not only can reduced air infiltration cut the cost of energy bills, it can also help improve the indoor air quality of the home.
"Now is a great time to tackle those air sealing and insulating projects to ensure your home is as comfortable as possible this winter season," says Matt Girand, director of products and programs for Owens Corning Residential Insulation, LLC. "From insulating to sealing around windows and doors, there are a number of DIY options available to homeowners that can be completed in as little as one hour, but will last year round."
Start from the top
The core of a home's comfort and energy efficiency lies in its insulation, and adding a layer of insulation in your attic can be completed in a few easy steps. First, determine how much insulation is already in your attic, the Department of Energy (DOE) recommends a minimum of 18 inches of attic insulation for most areas of the United States. As a general rule, if you can see the floor joists in your attic, your insulation is not thick enough. Owens Corning offers a number of tools, including an insulation calculator to help homeowners determine exactly what they'll need to insulate their home.
Adding a layer of insulation to your attic is easy, fast and affordable. Owens Corning(TM) EcoTouch(R) insulation will bring more comfort to your home and reduce monthly heating and cooling costs year round. Although savings vary, you can find out why in the seller's fact sheet on R-values. Higher R-values mean greater insulating power. EcoTouch Insulation is manufactured with 58 percent recycled content and verified to be formaldehyde free.
Seal it up
Cracks along windows and doors allow air and pollutants to seep into the home, and conditioned air to exit. To determine where air leaks might be located in your home, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends checking areas such as baseboards, or around doors and wall or window-mounted air conditioners, for signs such as missing weather stripping that indicate air might be filtering in and out. Gaps around pipes and wires, electrical outlets and foundation seals should also be examined. If you have difficulty locating leaks, visit EnergySavers.gov to learn how to execute a basic building pressurization test.
Once you've uncovered the location of the leaks in your home, the next step is to address the problem. Hardware stores sell self-adhering weather stripping and window insulation kits that are affordable and effective. To close gaps around pipes and vents, consider purchasing caulk to seal the opening.
Ventilate
Proper ventilation is also important to ensure optimal indoor air quality. According to The Alliance for Healthy Homes, proper ventilation can control indoor humidity and airborne contaminants. One way to promote ventilation in areas of the home that may be more susceptible to moisture is to install exterior exhaust fans. Commonly needed in a home's kitchen or bathrooms, exterior fans help push damp air outside.
Whether you reside in a warm climate or the Snow Belt, proper insulation and ventilation in the home can result in better indoor air quality and greater comfort, for the winter season and beyond. For more information, visit www.OwensCorning.com.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1328072400;}i:26;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:74:"Ease your heating bill with a call to your plumbing and heating contractor";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8061200101";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"10/20/2011";s:11:"description";s:4048:"(ARA) - As the cold weather lingers, families will turn up the thermostat, add an extra blanket to the beds, and hit the local home improvement store for needed supplies to keep drafts out.
Unfortunately most won't call their local plumbing and heating contractor. While homeowners annually dread seeing those utility bills roll in, they don't give their heating system much thought until it needs to be repaired or replaced.
Annual preventative maintenance is always better than dealing with the alternative. One "no heat" call can cost you $300 or more, just to diagnose a problem and if your boiler or furnace has out-lived its warranty, you'll be responsible for the full cost of parts and labor.
"When we do annual maintenance, we clean and inspect the boiler and perform a combustion test to ensure the boiler is operating properly and safely," says Chris Bodek of Bodek Incorporated, Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning of Johnson City, N.Y.
If your contractor determines that your boiler or furnace needs to be replaced, they will do a heat loss and sizing calculation to determine the size (BTU's) required to heat your home. Your contractor should be able to provide a good, better and best equipment choice to suit your budget and desired efficiency level. Be sure to use a reputable contractor and ask for references.
When you weigh costs, understand that your investment goes well beyond the initial cost of the system. Your old low efficiency heating system could have an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) of 70 percent. That means 70 percent of the energy in the fuel becomes heat for the home and the other 30 percent escapes up the chimney and elsewhere. With the old inefficient heating equipment you have, you could be throwing away up to 30 percent of the money you spend on fuel each year.
If you're in a replacement or new build situation, the Dunkirk Helix VLT Stainless Steel Condensing boiler is rated with a 96 percent AFUE. Homeowners may be interested in the fact that this boiler is lightweight and wall-mounted, which can help prevent it from becoming damaged in case of flooding in the basement like so many East Coast homeowners experienced during Tropical Storm Irene in August. Also, if children or pets play in the basement or utility room, a wall mount boiler frees up valuable floor space and eases ground level safety concerns.
High efficiency condensing boilers entered the U.S. home heating market in the last 15 years and have steadily gained in popularity. The heart of any boiler is the heat exchanger, much like a motor is to a car, and it is what provides a boiler's efficiency. Unlike every other manufacturer, Dunkirk has designed and built boilers and heat exchangers here in the U.S. Dunkirk's newest high efficiency boiler, the Helix VLT, is the result of American ingenuity in the form of an innovative vertical laser tube stainless steel heat exchanger design which maximizes heat transfer from the heat exchanger to the boiler water.
Condensing boilers are sealed combustion boilers, which means they rely on air from the outdoors for combustion versus taking air from inside the home which can cause drafts and waste energy.
A built-in outdoor reset is another fuel economizing feature. An outdoor temperature reset is a sensor that modulates the temperature of the boiler water based on seasonal conditions. In doing so, the boiler uses less fuel to heat the home during mild weather.
A boiler with an efficiency of 96 percent, which includes sealed combustion and outdoor temperature reset, can save the homeowner up to 40 percent in annual heating costs.
Whatever your home heating situation, do your homework and turn to a professional plumbing and heating contractor for information. Your home heating system can be uniquely tailored to meet the needs of your home, your lifestyle and your budget.";s:7:"summary";s:4048:"(ARA) - As the cold weather lingers, families will turn up the thermostat, add an extra blanket to the beds, and hit the local home improvement store for needed supplies to keep drafts out.
Unfortunately most won't call their local plumbing and heating contractor. While homeowners annually dread seeing those utility bills roll in, they don't give their heating system much thought until it needs to be repaired or replaced.
Annual preventative maintenance is always better than dealing with the alternative. One "no heat" call can cost you $300 or more, just to diagnose a problem and if your boiler or furnace has out-lived its warranty, you'll be responsible for the full cost of parts and labor.
"When we do annual maintenance, we clean and inspect the boiler and perform a combustion test to ensure the boiler is operating properly and safely," says Chris Bodek of Bodek Incorporated, Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning of Johnson City, N.Y.
If your contractor determines that your boiler or furnace needs to be replaced, they will do a heat loss and sizing calculation to determine the size (BTU's) required to heat your home. Your contractor should be able to provide a good, better and best equipment choice to suit your budget and desired efficiency level. Be sure to use a reputable contractor and ask for references.
When you weigh costs, understand that your investment goes well beyond the initial cost of the system. Your old low efficiency heating system could have an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) of 70 percent. That means 70 percent of the energy in the fuel becomes heat for the home and the other 30 percent escapes up the chimney and elsewhere. With the old inefficient heating equipment you have, you could be throwing away up to 30 percent of the money you spend on fuel each year.
If you're in a replacement or new build situation, the Dunkirk Helix VLT Stainless Steel Condensing boiler is rated with a 96 percent AFUE. Homeowners may be interested in the fact that this boiler is lightweight and wall-mounted, which can help prevent it from becoming damaged in case of flooding in the basement like so many East Coast homeowners experienced during Tropical Storm Irene in August. Also, if children or pets play in the basement or utility room, a wall mount boiler frees up valuable floor space and eases ground level safety concerns.
High efficiency condensing boilers entered the U.S. home heating market in the last 15 years and have steadily gained in popularity. The heart of any boiler is the heat exchanger, much like a motor is to a car, and it is what provides a boiler's efficiency. Unlike every other manufacturer, Dunkirk has designed and built boilers and heat exchangers here in the U.S. Dunkirk's newest high efficiency boiler, the Helix VLT, is the result of American ingenuity in the form of an innovative vertical laser tube stainless steel heat exchanger design which maximizes heat transfer from the heat exchanger to the boiler water.
Condensing boilers are sealed combustion boilers, which means they rely on air from the outdoors for combustion versus taking air from inside the home which can cause drafts and waste energy.
A built-in outdoor reset is another fuel economizing feature. An outdoor temperature reset is a sensor that modulates the temperature of the boiler water based on seasonal conditions. In doing so, the boiler uses less fuel to heat the home during mild weather.
A boiler with an efficiency of 96 percent, which includes sealed combustion and outdoor temperature reset, can save the homeowner up to 40 percent in annual heating costs.
Whatever your home heating situation, do your homework and turn to a professional plumbing and heating contractor for information. Your home heating system can be uniquely tailored to meet the needs of your home, your lifestyle and your budget.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1319083200;}i:27;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:40:"Upgrading your home into home sweet home";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8063450105";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"1/20/2012";s:11:"description";s:3402:"(ARA) - Home sweet home. With more homeowners deciding to stay put in their homes, rather than attempting to sell in the current market, that old adage is more meaningful than ever.
Staying put doesn't mean homeowners are settling. Many are upgrading or redecorating their abodes, turning their old home into the stylish - yet comfortable - home sweet home they've dreamed of for many years.
Upgrading and redecorating a house can be done in small steps, or in one overhaul, depending on your available time and finances, and the upgrades you want to do. For example, redesigning your kitchen with new appliances, cabinetry, flooring and wall color will require a lot more time, money and decision making on your part than redecorating a bedroom with new linens, wall color and rearranged furniture.
No matter if you want to have everything done in one large overhaul, or intend to spread your upgrades out over several years, you need to develop a working plan - one that can be constantly tweaked and updated as the project progresses. Here are some tips to get your working plan started:
* Plan on a budget. You can develop a total budget for all the work you want to do, or an annual budget, which will help you divide up all the projects so you are able to afford them over a period of time. When planning your budget, it's a good idea to overestimate the cost of a project, just in case something unexpected pops up requiring additional cash. Many a home remodeler can tell you about the simple home improvement project that turned into something much bigger than originally anticipated.
* Set a timeline. This is to determine your availability to work on the project. If you find that you only have a day or two available, you probably will want to plan for a much smaller project. Or you may want to hire out any work you won't be able to finish yourself.
* Make a list of equipment you need. If you're going to be purchasing larger supplies like wood boards and drywall, you probably need to update your truck with the Adarac truck bed rack system from Access, a division of Agri-Cover, Inc. Your truck will be able to transport up to 500 pounds of home improvement supplies on the rack, which sits neatly behind the cab and secures your load with eyelets. And don't forget about finding a secure place in your home or garage to store supplies while the project is ongoing. If you live in a home where storage is limited, consider keeping your tools in your truck bed, covered and secured with an Access tonneau cover. The cover's locks keep your tools safe and dry until you need them, and when you're ready to get started on the project, the tonneau truck bed cover can easily be removed, granting you access to everything.
* Ask questions. As you get started in the planning of your project, talk to friends and family who have done something similar, as well as the experts at home improvement stores. The more information you have, the more prepared you will be to address issues as they arise.
Staying in your current house and revamping it into that dream house you always wanted can really pay off. You may find yourself inviting family and friends to come and vacation at your house, so you can stay home and enjoy it.";s:7:"summary";s:3402:"(ARA) - Home sweet home. With more homeowners deciding to stay put in their homes, rather than attempting to sell in the current market, that old adage is more meaningful than ever.
Staying put doesn't mean homeowners are settling. Many are upgrading or redecorating their abodes, turning their old home into the stylish - yet comfortable - home sweet home they've dreamed of for many years.
Upgrading and redecorating a house can be done in small steps, or in one overhaul, depending on your available time and finances, and the upgrades you want to do. For example, redesigning your kitchen with new appliances, cabinetry, flooring and wall color will require a lot more time, money and decision making on your part than redecorating a bedroom with new linens, wall color and rearranged furniture.
No matter if you want to have everything done in one large overhaul, or intend to spread your upgrades out over several years, you need to develop a working plan - one that can be constantly tweaked and updated as the project progresses. Here are some tips to get your working plan started:
* Plan on a budget. You can develop a total budget for all the work you want to do, or an annual budget, which will help you divide up all the projects so you are able to afford them over a period of time. When planning your budget, it's a good idea to overestimate the cost of a project, just in case something unexpected pops up requiring additional cash. Many a home remodeler can tell you about the simple home improvement project that turned into something much bigger than originally anticipated.
* Set a timeline. This is to determine your availability to work on the project. If you find that you only have a day or two available, you probably will want to plan for a much smaller project. Or you may want to hire out any work you won't be able to finish yourself.
* Make a list of equipment you need. If you're going to be purchasing larger supplies like wood boards and drywall, you probably need to update your truck with the Adarac truck bed rack system from Access, a division of Agri-Cover, Inc. Your truck will be able to transport up to 500 pounds of home improvement supplies on the rack, which sits neatly behind the cab and secures your load with eyelets. And don't forget about finding a secure place in your home or garage to store supplies while the project is ongoing. If you live in a home where storage is limited, consider keeping your tools in your truck bed, covered and secured with an Access tonneau cover. The cover's locks keep your tools safe and dry until you need them, and when you're ready to get started on the project, the tonneau truck bed cover can easily be removed, granting you access to everything.
* Ask questions. As you get started in the planning of your project, talk to friends and family who have done something similar, as well as the experts at home improvement stores. The more information you have, the more prepared you will be to address issues as they arise.
Staying in your current house and revamping it into that dream house you always wanted can really pay off. You may find yourself inviting family and friends to come and vacation at your house, so you can stay home and enjoy it.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1327035600;}i:28;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:57:"Take steps now to keep indoor air clean throughout winter";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8054400204";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"10/11/2011";s:11:"description";s:4006:"(ARA) - When the winter winds start to howl, it's a natural response to want to close your home up tightly. To stay warm and avoid wasting energy, you close the windows - or even seal them with window film -- find ways to stop air from leaking in through cracks and under doors, and then put your heating system to work. But when those instincts kick in, remember that what you're doing is sealing air inside your home.
There's a definite upside to sealing your house up well for the winter: you'll stay warmer, with less impact on your energy bills. However, the downside is that those actions can negatively affect the quality of the air you'll be breathing. It's a particular concern because of the increased amount of time people spend indoors through the winter.
Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems have been shown to act as a collection source for a variety of contaminants that have the potential to affect health, such as mold, fungi, bacteria and very small particles of dust. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air.
"When you flip that switch on your heater, there is a lot of dust and debris - collected in the coils over the summer months - that either burns into fumes or gushes into the house through your vents," says Aaron Marshbanks, board member of the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA).
The removal of such contaminants from your HVAC system is crucial to improve indoor air quality. Plus, a clean system can save you money on your energy bill.
Further research from the EPA found that HVAC system cleaning may allow systems to run more efficiently by removing debris from sensitive mechanical components. Clean, efficient systems are less likely to break down, have a longer life span, and generally operate more effectively than dirty systems.
"Heating and cooling uses up about half of the energy in your home," says Marshbanks. "But having a clean HVAC system can save you up to 30 percent in energy costs. That means you have better air inside the house, and are helping the environment while keeping an extra bit of cash in your pocket."
The best way to determine if your HVAC system is clean is to perform a visual inspection. Before winter settles in, be sure to have these top issues that affect a home's HVAC system checked:
1. Filtration - Low-efficiency filters, lack of a filter replacement program and improperly sized filters can allow particles and debris to flow into a home or building.
2. Duct work contamination - It is estimated that about 90 percent of HVAC systems more than 10 years old will have some level of insulation deterioration. Over time, the insulation fibers are distributed and blown into occupied spaces every time the blower turns on.
3. Dirty evaporator coil - Over time, evaporator coils become matted with dust and dirt. During cold months, the heated air can flow over the dirty coils and be distributed into your home's interior space.
Not all households are the same when it comes to how often their systems need cleaning, either. If any of these apply to your home, you might consider more frequent cleaning:
* Smokers in the household.
* Pets that shed high amounts of hair and dander.
* Water contamination or damage to the home or HVAC system.
* Residents with allergies or asthma.
* Home renovations or remodeling.
The most effective way to clean air ducts and ventilation systems is to employ source removal methods of cleaning. This requires a contractor to place the system under negative pressure through the use of a specialized, powerful vacuum. For more information about HVAC cleaning and to find a certified and knowledgeable contractor, visit www.NADCA.com.";s:7:"summary";s:4006:"(ARA) - When the winter winds start to howl, it's a natural response to want to close your home up tightly. To stay warm and avoid wasting energy, you close the windows - or even seal them with window film -- find ways to stop air from leaking in through cracks and under doors, and then put your heating system to work. But when those instincts kick in, remember that what you're doing is sealing air inside your home.
There's a definite upside to sealing your house up well for the winter: you'll stay warmer, with less impact on your energy bills. However, the downside is that those actions can negatively affect the quality of the air you'll be breathing. It's a particular concern because of the increased amount of time people spend indoors through the winter.
Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems have been shown to act as a collection source for a variety of contaminants that have the potential to affect health, such as mold, fungi, bacteria and very small particles of dust. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air.
"When you flip that switch on your heater, there is a lot of dust and debris - collected in the coils over the summer months - that either burns into fumes or gushes into the house through your vents," says Aaron Marshbanks, board member of the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA).
The removal of such contaminants from your HVAC system is crucial to improve indoor air quality. Plus, a clean system can save you money on your energy bill.
Further research from the EPA found that HVAC system cleaning may allow systems to run more efficiently by removing debris from sensitive mechanical components. Clean, efficient systems are less likely to break down, have a longer life span, and generally operate more effectively than dirty systems.
"Heating and cooling uses up about half of the energy in your home," says Marshbanks. "But having a clean HVAC system can save you up to 30 percent in energy costs. That means you have better air inside the house, and are helping the environment while keeping an extra bit of cash in your pocket."
The best way to determine if your HVAC system is clean is to perform a visual inspection. Before winter settles in, be sure to have these top issues that affect a home's HVAC system checked:
1. Filtration - Low-efficiency filters, lack of a filter replacement program and improperly sized filters can allow particles and debris to flow into a home or building.
2. Duct work contamination - It is estimated that about 90 percent of HVAC systems more than 10 years old will have some level of insulation deterioration. Over time, the insulation fibers are distributed and blown into occupied spaces every time the blower turns on.
3. Dirty evaporator coil - Over time, evaporator coils become matted with dust and dirt. During cold months, the heated air can flow over the dirty coils and be distributed into your home's interior space.
Not all households are the same when it comes to how often their systems need cleaning, either. If any of these apply to your home, you might consider more frequent cleaning:
* Smokers in the household.
* Pets that shed high amounts of hair and dander.
* Water contamination or damage to the home or HVAC system.
* Residents with allergies or asthma.
* Home renovations or remodeling.
The most effective way to clean air ducts and ventilation systems is to employ source removal methods of cleaning. This requires a contractor to place the system under negative pressure through the use of a specialized, powerful vacuum. For more information about HVAC cleaning and to find a certified and knowledgeable contractor, visit www.NADCA.com.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1318305600;}i:29;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:41:"Tips to make a toddler's room sustainable";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8061340550";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"1/12/2012";s:11:"description";s:5209:"(ARA) - Whether you've been taking steps toward green living or you're a newbie and want to jump start your efforts and reduce your carbon footprint on earth, one area of opportunity is your toddler's room.
Two interior design instructors from The Art Institutes share how to make your toddler's room sustainable.
"Sustainability is a popular subject, and most experts in design agree sustainability has to be a way of living and incorporated into our every day," says Kristina Held, interior design instructor at The Art Institute of Charlotte. "Wooden toys are a small investment and a good place to start." Held recommends Plan toys or Haba toys which are wood and naturally antibacterial.
Wooden toys:
Even Kourtney Kardashian promotes wooden, sustainable toys as opposed to plastic toys on her "mommy blog." Some of the top reasons to buy wooden toys:
* Conserve energy: It takes more energy and fuel to make plastic toys.
* Plastic toys are made with chemicals - and we all know how toddlers tend to stick toys in their mouths.
* Wooden toys are durable compared to plastic toys (you also don't have to replace batteries).
Fabrics:
Consider bedding, curtain treatments and upholstery. "Think about choosing natural fibers such as linens and bamboo," says Kelly Spewock, interior design department director at The Art Institute of Pittsburgh. "Bamboo is the most popular at the moment, and it is also a renewable resource." A blend of cottons with acrylic and rayon make great upholstery fabrics, Held says. Worried about the softness to the touch? Cotton textiles that are brushed are soft on toddler's skin, and so are terry clothes made of hemp and cotton. Try to avoid dyes. Cotton is the best for preventing irritated skin and breakouts, and it is also easy to clean.
Repurposing furniture:
If you're taking the room from baby to toddler-friendly, Spewock recommends repurposing your furniture. "Get creative by converting the crib into a bed by taking off the railings and use old wooden boxes as shelving," Spewock says. Go the shabby chic route by sanding an old desk and painting it white or a pastel color. Then, remove some of the paint with a cloth for an old/distressed look and feel. Saw off half of the table's legs to make a toddler-accessible play/work area, Spewock says.
Flooring and carpeting:
Carefully consider flooring and carpeting because toddlers are just a few feet off the floor and on their hands and knees all day. "Carpets are tough. You have to constantly steam clean to get rid of the dust mites and dirt they collect. Toddlers are breathing the dust, dirt and the glues on wall to wall carpeting," Held says. Carpets with natural fibers create less off-gassing (toxins and glue coming from the carpets and furniture). She recommends Amtico floors which can be made to resemble wood, tile, stone and linoleum. But nothing beats wood flooring, Held says. Again, it is naturally antibacterial, easy to clean and warm to bare skin.
Take sustainability to the walls:
Spewock recommend Zero-VOC paint which has no off-gassing and is water-soluble. Paint gives off fumes just like the glue in furniture and fabrics in the carpets. "Ten years ago you'd pay twice as much for environmentally friendly paint. Now, it's affordable and much more common," Spewock says.
Show and tell:
Educate children through design and teach them through example, recommend both Spewock and Held. Introduce green plants and teach your toddler how to take care of them, Held says. Plants get rid of toxins you don't want in your air.
Consider maximizing the natural light in your toddler's room. "It's been proven in a classroom setting that children stay awake, more alert, and they are generally happier when exposed to natural light," Held says. Expose them to fresh air, especially if your home is cooled by central air where toxins are circulated. Open up and freshen up to avoid harvesting viruses, dust mites, animal hair, etc.
Decorate the walls using symbols and imagery such as trees, a globe of the world and other items that represent the natural world. To teach them about energy conservation, paint a sun with its eyes closed for the "off" light switch position and a sun with its eyes open for the "on switch" position. "Celebrate Earth Day and get your children interested in helping to recycle," Spewock says. "Live it so your child embraces it."
Kristina Held is an architect by trade, a member of American International Architects, and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP) certified. She teaches residential design and working drawings, perspectives, and architectural details. She also has two daughters of her own, a 4-year-old and a 6-year-old.
Kelly Spewock is also LEED Certified. In addition to her interior design chair duties, she is also owner of Little House designs in Pittsburgh.";s:7:"summary";s:5209:"(ARA) - Whether you've been taking steps toward green living or you're a newbie and want to jump start your efforts and reduce your carbon footprint on earth, one area of opportunity is your toddler's room.
Two interior design instructors from The Art Institutes share how to make your toddler's room sustainable.
"Sustainability is a popular subject, and most experts in design agree sustainability has to be a way of living and incorporated into our every day," says Kristina Held, interior design instructor at The Art Institute of Charlotte. "Wooden toys are a small investment and a good place to start." Held recommends Plan toys or Haba toys which are wood and naturally antibacterial.
Wooden toys:
Even Kourtney Kardashian promotes wooden, sustainable toys as opposed to plastic toys on her "mommy blog." Some of the top reasons to buy wooden toys:
* Conserve energy: It takes more energy and fuel to make plastic toys.
* Plastic toys are made with chemicals - and we all know how toddlers tend to stick toys in their mouths.
* Wooden toys are durable compared to plastic toys (you also don't have to replace batteries).
Fabrics:
Consider bedding, curtain treatments and upholstery. "Think about choosing natural fibers such as linens and bamboo," says Kelly Spewock, interior design department director at The Art Institute of Pittsburgh. "Bamboo is the most popular at the moment, and it is also a renewable resource." A blend of cottons with acrylic and rayon make great upholstery fabrics, Held says. Worried about the softness to the touch? Cotton textiles that are brushed are soft on toddler's skin, and so are terry clothes made of hemp and cotton. Try to avoid dyes. Cotton is the best for preventing irritated skin and breakouts, and it is also easy to clean.
Repurposing furniture:
If you're taking the room from baby to toddler-friendly, Spewock recommends repurposing your furniture. "Get creative by converting the crib into a bed by taking off the railings and use old wooden boxes as shelving," Spewock says. Go the shabby chic route by sanding an old desk and painting it white or a pastel color. Then, remove some of the paint with a cloth for an old/distressed look and feel. Saw off half of the table's legs to make a toddler-accessible play/work area, Spewock says.
Flooring and carpeting:
Carefully consider flooring and carpeting because toddlers are just a few feet off the floor and on their hands and knees all day. "Carpets are tough. You have to constantly steam clean to get rid of the dust mites and dirt they collect. Toddlers are breathing the dust, dirt and the glues on wall to wall carpeting," Held says. Carpets with natural fibers create less off-gassing (toxins and glue coming from the carpets and furniture). She recommends Amtico floors which can be made to resemble wood, tile, stone and linoleum. But nothing beats wood flooring, Held says. Again, it is naturally antibacterial, easy to clean and warm to bare skin.
Take sustainability to the walls:
Spewock recommend Zero-VOC paint which has no off-gassing and is water-soluble. Paint gives off fumes just like the glue in furniture and fabrics in the carpets. "Ten years ago you'd pay twice as much for environmentally friendly paint. Now, it's affordable and much more common," Spewock says.
Show and tell:
Educate children through design and teach them through example, recommend both Spewock and Held. Introduce green plants and teach your toddler how to take care of them, Held says. Plants get rid of toxins you don't want in your air.
Consider maximizing the natural light in your toddler's room. "It's been proven in a classroom setting that children stay awake, more alert, and they are generally happier when exposed to natural light," Held says. Expose them to fresh air, especially if your home is cooled by central air where toxins are circulated. Open up and freshen up to avoid harvesting viruses, dust mites, animal hair, etc.
Decorate the walls using symbols and imagery such as trees, a globe of the world and other items that represent the natural world. To teach them about energy conservation, paint a sun with its eyes closed for the "off" light switch position and a sun with its eyes open for the "on switch" position. "Celebrate Earth Day and get your children interested in helping to recycle," Spewock says. "Live it so your child embraces it."
Kristina Held is an architect by trade, a member of American International Architects, and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP) certified. She teaches residential design and working drawings, perspectives, and architectural details. She also has two daughters of her own, a 4-year-old and a 6-year-old.
Kelly Spewock is also LEED Certified. In addition to her interior design chair duties, she is also owner of Little House designs in Pittsburgh.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1326344400;}i:30;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:55:"How to turn your first home into a decorator's showcase";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8053211013";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"10/31/2011";s:11:"description";s:3844:"(ARA) - Whether you've signed a lease agreement or purchased a house, moving into your first home is an exciting time. For many people, it's their first opportunity to express their personal style by decorating their own space.
Whatever your taste - contemporary or classic, modern or rustic - you want your first home's interior decor to look polished and put-together. And you'd probably rather not spend a bundle achieving that look.
Do-it-yourself home decor is popular for exactly those reasons. By doing the design and implementation yourself, you can save a lot of money. Plus, many people find that doing it themselves makes decorating their homes an even more personal and rewarding experience.
So where do you start if you want to turn your first home into a decorator's showcase? Focusing on a few key areas can yield high-impact results.
Start with the walls; they're the largest design element in any room, and repainting them is an easy, high-payoff way to begin redecorating. Choose colors that not only speak to you, but that also make sense with key furniture pieces you already have. For example, if you have a great sofa that you love, consider choosing a color or two from the pattern and using that on the walls.
Another smart paint strategy is to do three walls in a restful, neutral color and then spice things up with a more vibrant hue on a fourth "accent" wall. Whatever color you choose, remember to buy the best quality paint you can afford. It will last longer and look great.
Another option for dressing up your walls is to use removable murals. Wall murals are a favorite design trick of interior decorators. Repositionable murals, like MuralsYourWay.com's SmartStick line, make it easy to decorate with a mural - minus the commitment or expense of having one professionally painted. The moisture-resistant murals can be placed and then repositioned anywhere in the house, even the bathroom or kitchen (where Mediterranean wall murals are hugely popular).
Once you've gussied up your walls, it's time to look down and think about the floor. Flooring is the second largest design element in a room and it forms the foundation for your other design decisions.
If you've got the budget and the gumption, you can remove and replace old carpet, re-stain worn wood and retile dated floors. If your means and your DIY skills are more modest, you can always cover up unappealing carpet with throw rugs that speak to your tastes. Carpet tiles are also a great way to get the look and feel of new carpet without the expense and installation challenges of wall-to-wall. And bathrooms and kitchens can both benefit from a new flooring of easy-to-install vinyl tiles.
Finally, accessories are the icing on the cake when it comes to your interior decor. Even if your furniture is mature, you can make it look young again with new accent pillows and slipcovers. It's possible to find reasonably priced artwork to fit nearly every design theme these days, whether you look online or hit one of the big box home design stores.
Window treatments are another accessory that will give you more bang for the buck. You can get a designer look for less when you dress up cheap, store-bought panels with some personal touches.
Turning your first home into a decorator's showcase doesn't have to cost a lot. A sense of adventure, some creativity and the willingness to do the work yourself can have your home looking like something from a TV interior design show in no time.";s:7:"summary";s:3844:"(ARA) - Whether you've signed a lease agreement or purchased a house, moving into your first home is an exciting time. For many people, it's their first opportunity to express their personal style by decorating their own space.
Whatever your taste - contemporary or classic, modern or rustic - you want your first home's interior decor to look polished and put-together. And you'd probably rather not spend a bundle achieving that look.
Do-it-yourself home decor is popular for exactly those reasons. By doing the design and implementation yourself, you can save a lot of money. Plus, many people find that doing it themselves makes decorating their homes an even more personal and rewarding experience.
So where do you start if you want to turn your first home into a decorator's showcase? Focusing on a few key areas can yield high-impact results.
Start with the walls; they're the largest design element in any room, and repainting them is an easy, high-payoff way to begin redecorating. Choose colors that not only speak to you, but that also make sense with key furniture pieces you already have. For example, if you have a great sofa that you love, consider choosing a color or two from the pattern and using that on the walls.
Another smart paint strategy is to do three walls in a restful, neutral color and then spice things up with a more vibrant hue on a fourth "accent" wall. Whatever color you choose, remember to buy the best quality paint you can afford. It will last longer and look great.
Another option for dressing up your walls is to use removable murals. Wall murals are a favorite design trick of interior decorators. Repositionable murals, like MuralsYourWay.com's SmartStick line, make it easy to decorate with a mural - minus the commitment or expense of having one professionally painted. The moisture-resistant murals can be placed and then repositioned anywhere in the house, even the bathroom or kitchen (where Mediterranean wall murals are hugely popular).
Once you've gussied up your walls, it's time to look down and think about the floor. Flooring is the second largest design element in a room and it forms the foundation for your other design decisions.
If you've got the budget and the gumption, you can remove and replace old carpet, re-stain worn wood and retile dated floors. If your means and your DIY skills are more modest, you can always cover up unappealing carpet with throw rugs that speak to your tastes. Carpet tiles are also a great way to get the look and feel of new carpet without the expense and installation challenges of wall-to-wall. And bathrooms and kitchens can both benefit from a new flooring of easy-to-install vinyl tiles.
Finally, accessories are the icing on the cake when it comes to your interior decor. Even if your furniture is mature, you can make it look young again with new accent pillows and slipcovers. It's possible to find reasonably priced artwork to fit nearly every design theme these days, whether you look online or hit one of the big box home design stores.
Window treatments are another accessory that will give you more bang for the buck. You can get a designer look for less when you dress up cheap, store-bought panels with some personal touches.
Turning your first home into a decorator's showcase doesn't have to cost a lot. A sense of adventure, some creativity and the willingness to do the work yourself can have your home looking like something from a TV interior design show in no time.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1320033600;}i:31;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:56:"New garage door technology makes your life safer; secure";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8061250101";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"11/18/2011";s:11:"description";s:3448:"(ARA) - As the American home has continued to evolve with the speed of new technology, so has the garage. In order to keep up with the everyday busy lives of homeowners and the need for these homeowners to spread out and utilize all the space within their homes, garages have become a new frontier for functioning space within the home.
The majority of homeowners use the garage as the main entrance way into their homes, making the garage door and its opener imperative to the security of the home, protecting the people and property behind it.
Before, garage doors only opened and closed to let your car in and out of the garage, and you had to be there to do it. But garage doors and openers have improved dramatically in the last decade to do more. If you're interested in upgrading your home's security and curb appeal, don't forget to check out some of the newest high-tech features:
* Control from anywhere around the world: Garage door openers are high tech now, and the LiftMaster openers with MyQ Technology allow you to control your garage door - as well as other household items - from inside your house, while at the office or even from halfway across the world by using your computer or smartphone. This technology lets you monitor if the garage door is opened or closed and allows you the freedom to operate it from a remote location, perhaps to grant access to a family member or allow a delivery.
* Electronic eyes - New garage door openers come with safety sensors that prevent the door from closing if something were to be underneath. If an object breaks the beam of infrared light spanning the width of the door, the garage door won't close - and if something were to cross the sensor as the door is closing, it would cause the door to reverse direction and open up again. This can help protect small children and pets from being struck by the closing door.
* Timers for closing - You've probably forgotten to close your garage door after pulling out of the driveway at least once in your life, leaving your home and property wide open to anyone passing by. New garage door openers allow you to customize the settings on your garage door opener to ensure that the door will close after one minute, five minutes or even 10 minutes of being open.
* Power out? Not a problem - The harsh winter weather can leave many homes without power for extended periods of time. LiftMaster openers are equipped with battery backup, which is very useful during a power failure in severe weather conditions, providing your family with reliable, uninterrupted access to your home and automobiles in the garage.
* Shed light on safety - Exterior lights also have seen technology upgrades, and when placed next to your garage, can deter unwanted visitors. Save money with solar powered lights, or lights that are motion-activated to brightly shine when something approaches the garage. In addition to discouraging unwanted visitors, lights also give your family members a safer environment when arriving home after dark.
Using new technology in and around your garage helps you maintain security and safety and can improve your life in so many different ways. Learn more about how the LiftMaster garage door openers with MyQ Technology can benefit your home and your family at www.LiftMaster.com.";s:7:"summary";s:3448:"(ARA) - As the American home has continued to evolve with the speed of new technology, so has the garage. In order to keep up with the everyday busy lives of homeowners and the need for these homeowners to spread out and utilize all the space within their homes, garages have become a new frontier for functioning space within the home.
The majority of homeowners use the garage as the main entrance way into their homes, making the garage door and its opener imperative to the security of the home, protecting the people and property behind it.
Before, garage doors only opened and closed to let your car in and out of the garage, and you had to be there to do it. But garage doors and openers have improved dramatically in the last decade to do more. If you're interested in upgrading your home's security and curb appeal, don't forget to check out some of the newest high-tech features:
* Control from anywhere around the world: Garage door openers are high tech now, and the LiftMaster openers with MyQ Technology allow you to control your garage door - as well as other household items - from inside your house, while at the office or even from halfway across the world by using your computer or smartphone. This technology lets you monitor if the garage door is opened or closed and allows you the freedom to operate it from a remote location, perhaps to grant access to a family member or allow a delivery.
* Electronic eyes - New garage door openers come with safety sensors that prevent the door from closing if something were to be underneath. If an object breaks the beam of infrared light spanning the width of the door, the garage door won't close - and if something were to cross the sensor as the door is closing, it would cause the door to reverse direction and open up again. This can help protect small children and pets from being struck by the closing door.
* Timers for closing - You've probably forgotten to close your garage door after pulling out of the driveway at least once in your life, leaving your home and property wide open to anyone passing by. New garage door openers allow you to customize the settings on your garage door opener to ensure that the door will close after one minute, five minutes or even 10 minutes of being open.
* Power out? Not a problem - The harsh winter weather can leave many homes without power for extended periods of time. LiftMaster openers are equipped with battery backup, which is very useful during a power failure in severe weather conditions, providing your family with reliable, uninterrupted access to your home and automobiles in the garage.
* Shed light on safety - Exterior lights also have seen technology upgrades, and when placed next to your garage, can deter unwanted visitors. Save money with solar powered lights, or lights that are motion-activated to brightly shine when something approaches the garage. In addition to discouraging unwanted visitors, lights also give your family members a safer environment when arriving home after dark.
Using new technology in and around your garage helps you maintain security and safety and can improve your life in so many different ways. Learn more about how the LiftMaster garage door openers with MyQ Technology can benefit your home and your family at www.LiftMaster.com.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1321592400;}i:32;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:58:"Tax credit and deduction tips for home improvement in 2012";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8055043336";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"12/22/2011";s:11:"description";s:3048:"(ARA) - With the new year under way, you may be thinking about needed home improvements and how you'll use your credit to fund them. While it's important to understand your credit before making major home improvement decisions, you should also consider another kind of credit - tax credits for energy efficient home improvements.
For the past few years, the federal government has offered tax credits for certain home improvements aimed at increasing a home's energy efficiency. While the most popular and generous tax credits, such as the one that allowed you to claim up to 30 percent of improvements such as a new roof or hot water heater, have expired, you can still get credit for other significant energy-efficient improvements.
According to EnergyStar.gov, you can claim a tax credit for 30 percent of the cost of installing a geothermal heat pump, small wind turbine or solar energy system in your home. The credit has no upper limit and applies to both existing homes and new construction, but not to rental properties. This credit is good until Dec. 31, 2016.
You can also get a credit of up to 30 percent of the cost of residential fuel cells, up to $500 per .5kW of power capacity, EnergyStar.gov says. This credit is also available until Dec. 31, 2016.
While the initial cost of these improvements may seem significant, they can dramatically decrease home energy bills in the long run.
Depending on the type of home improvement or repair you undertake, you may also be able to claim a deduction on your taxes. Before launching a significant home repair or improvement, it may pay to consult with your tax accountant to see what, if any, portion of the cost may be deductible. And, as you do home repairs throughout the year, keep receipts and discuss the improvements and possible deductions with your accountant when he or she is preparing your tax return.
Knowing ahead of time which, if any, tax credits or deductions your home improvement may qualify for can help you make a better decision about how to use credit to fund the work. Since how you use credit affects your overall credit score, knowing the cost of a project before starting it can help you better manage your credit.
If you're unsure how a home improvement project may affect your credit score, websites like freecreditscore.com can help you understand your credit. The site offers members a Credit Score Estimator that can help you understand how big financial decisions, like applying for a home improvement loan, may affect your credit score.
To learn more about tax credits for energy efficient home improvements, visit www.EnergyStar.gov. To learn more about tax deductions, visit www.IRS.gov. You can find a list of regional tax credits, rebates and savings at energy.gov/savings.";s:7:"summary";s:3048:"(ARA) - With the new year under way, you may be thinking about needed home improvements and how you'll use your credit to fund them. While it's important to understand your credit before making major home improvement decisions, you should also consider another kind of credit - tax credits for energy efficient home improvements.
For the past few years, the federal government has offered tax credits for certain home improvements aimed at increasing a home's energy efficiency. While the most popular and generous tax credits, such as the one that allowed you to claim up to 30 percent of improvements such as a new roof or hot water heater, have expired, you can still get credit for other significant energy-efficient improvements.
According to EnergyStar.gov, you can claim a tax credit for 30 percent of the cost of installing a geothermal heat pump, small wind turbine or solar energy system in your home. The credit has no upper limit and applies to both existing homes and new construction, but not to rental properties. This credit is good until Dec. 31, 2016.
You can also get a credit of up to 30 percent of the cost of residential fuel cells, up to $500 per .5kW of power capacity, EnergyStar.gov says. This credit is also available until Dec. 31, 2016.
While the initial cost of these improvements may seem significant, they can dramatically decrease home energy bills in the long run.
Depending on the type of home improvement or repair you undertake, you may also be able to claim a deduction on your taxes. Before launching a significant home repair or improvement, it may pay to consult with your tax accountant to see what, if any, portion of the cost may be deductible. And, as you do home repairs throughout the year, keep receipts and discuss the improvements and possible deductions with your accountant when he or she is preparing your tax return.
Knowing ahead of time which, if any, tax credits or deductions your home improvement may qualify for can help you make a better decision about how to use credit to fund the work. Since how you use credit affects your overall credit score, knowing the cost of a project before starting it can help you better manage your credit.
If you're unsure how a home improvement project may affect your credit score, websites like freecreditscore.com can help you understand your credit. The site offers members a Credit Score Estimator that can help you understand how big financial decisions, like applying for a home improvement loan, may affect your credit score.
To learn more about tax credits for energy efficient home improvements, visit www.EnergyStar.gov. To learn more about tax deductions, visit www.IRS.gov. You can find a list of regional tax credits, rebates and savings at energy.gov/savings.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1324530000;}i:33;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:44:"How to avoid scary heating bills this winter";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8063130101";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"1/20/2012";s:11:"description";s:4287:"(ARA) - This year's winter weather has been unpredictable, but homeowners can take a few simple steps now to ensure chilly temperatures and monthly heating bills don't take a bite out of their wallet.
Seeing your home through the lens of an infrared camera is one simple way to evaluate heat loss - an infrared lens is able to capture thermal energy emitted from weaknesses in the home's "thermal envelope," the barrier created between the exterior of a home and outdoor temperatures.
"What you're seeing in an infrared photo of a home is not unlike what you might see from the human body - the most substantial loss of heat is from the top," says John Smith, leader of Environmental Construction for Johns Manville, a building products manufacturer. "Similar to a winter hat, the proper level of attic insulation combined with air sealing helps trap heat inside, increasing comfort and efficiency and decreasing money wasted on energy bills."
Homeowners can contact a local energy auditor to have a thermal image taken of their home. If you don't have access to an infrared camera, evaluating home efficiency can be as easy as taking a trip to the attic with a measuring tape and measuring the depth of attic insulation - the average home needs up to 19 inches of fiber glass attic insulation for maximum energy efficiency.
"Many homeowners automatically brace themselves for higher energy bills as soon as temperatures dip and winter coats come out," says Kateri Callahan, president of Alliance to Save Energy, a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting energy efficiency. "But it doesn't need to be that way. Taking a proactive approach to energy efficiency is easier and more attractive than ever with the availability of tax credits and rebate incentives. What's more, projects that increase energy efficiency, such as air sealing and adding insulation, are among the best investments to deliver paybacks - now and in the future."
Investments made in home energy efficiency pay dividends for the lifetime of a home and improve the home's resale value. For every dollar saved in annual utility costs, homeowners can expect to add $20 to their home's market value, according to the Appraisal Institute. Homeowners can reduce their homes' heating and cooling costs by as much as 20 percent through proper air sealing and insulation techniques, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Do-it-yourself (DIY) or Do-it-for-me (DIFM)?
After evaluating their existing level of attic insulation, homeowners can identify the best approach to completing the project based on available resources, such as time, their personal skill level and budget. DIY-savvy homeowners can install insulation themselves, whereas other homeowners may be more comfortable with a DIFM approach.
"Handy homeowners can add insulation in their attics by placing batts or rolls on top of existing insulation or they can rent an insulation blowing machine to install loose-fill insulation," says Fred Stephan, vice president and general manager of Insulation Systems for Johns Manville. "For those who prefer to hire someone to perform the work, major retailers such as Lowe's offer Installation Services programs, which connect homeowners with qualified contractors in their area. With one stop, a homeowner can select products and a reputable third party to handle the project."
When adding insulation, homeowners should also consider air sealing their attic to help eliminate any holes or gaps that may exist in the floor or walls. By using caulk, spray foam or weather stripping to close such gaps, homeowners can further decrease wasted energy.
"As homeowners tighten up their homes to improve energy efficiency, they should consider using products that are free of formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds," says Stephan. "Products such as Johns Manville Formaldehyde-free fiber glass insulation help improve indoor air quality and achieve a healthier, safer home by reducing your overall formaldehyde exposure."
To find more information on DIY tips or how to find a contractor in your area, visit www.jmhomeowner.com.";s:7:"summary";s:4287:"(ARA) - This year's winter weather has been unpredictable, but homeowners can take a few simple steps now to ensure chilly temperatures and monthly heating bills don't take a bite out of their wallet.
Seeing your home through the lens of an infrared camera is one simple way to evaluate heat loss - an infrared lens is able to capture thermal energy emitted from weaknesses in the home's "thermal envelope," the barrier created between the exterior of a home and outdoor temperatures.
"What you're seeing in an infrared photo of a home is not unlike what you might see from the human body - the most substantial loss of heat is from the top," says John Smith, leader of Environmental Construction for Johns Manville, a building products manufacturer. "Similar to a winter hat, the proper level of attic insulation combined with air sealing helps trap heat inside, increasing comfort and efficiency and decreasing money wasted on energy bills."
Homeowners can contact a local energy auditor to have a thermal image taken of their home. If you don't have access to an infrared camera, evaluating home efficiency can be as easy as taking a trip to the attic with a measuring tape and measuring the depth of attic insulation - the average home needs up to 19 inches of fiber glass attic insulation for maximum energy efficiency.
"Many homeowners automatically brace themselves for higher energy bills as soon as temperatures dip and winter coats come out," says Kateri Callahan, president of Alliance to Save Energy, a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting energy efficiency. "But it doesn't need to be that way. Taking a proactive approach to energy efficiency is easier and more attractive than ever with the availability of tax credits and rebate incentives. What's more, projects that increase energy efficiency, such as air sealing and adding insulation, are among the best investments to deliver paybacks - now and in the future."
Investments made in home energy efficiency pay dividends for the lifetime of a home and improve the home's resale value. For every dollar saved in annual utility costs, homeowners can expect to add $20 to their home's market value, according to the Appraisal Institute. Homeowners can reduce their homes' heating and cooling costs by as much as 20 percent through proper air sealing and insulation techniques, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Do-it-yourself (DIY) or Do-it-for-me (DIFM)?
After evaluating their existing level of attic insulation, homeowners can identify the best approach to completing the project based on available resources, such as time, their personal skill level and budget. DIY-savvy homeowners can install insulation themselves, whereas other homeowners may be more comfortable with a DIFM approach.
"Handy homeowners can add insulation in their attics by placing batts or rolls on top of existing insulation or they can rent an insulation blowing machine to install loose-fill insulation," says Fred Stephan, vice president and general manager of Insulation Systems for Johns Manville. "For those who prefer to hire someone to perform the work, major retailers such as Lowe's offer Installation Services programs, which connect homeowners with qualified contractors in their area. With one stop, a homeowner can select products and a reputable third party to handle the project."
When adding insulation, homeowners should also consider air sealing their attic to help eliminate any holes or gaps that may exist in the floor or walls. By using caulk, spray foam or weather stripping to close such gaps, homeowners can further decrease wasted energy.
"As homeowners tighten up their homes to improve energy efficiency, they should consider using products that are free of formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds," says Stephan. "Products such as Johns Manville Formaldehyde-free fiber glass insulation help improve indoor air quality and achieve a healthier, safer home by reducing your overall formaldehyde exposure."
To find more information on DIY tips or how to find a contractor in your area, visit www.jmhomeowner.com.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1327035600;}i:34;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:76:"Demand for healthier building options drives the rediscovery of ceramic tile";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8053920404";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"11/4/2011";s:11:"description";s:3685:"(ARA) - If you've ever had new carpeting installed in your house and found yourself suffering from a nagging cough for days afterward, you've experienced the effect some home improvement materials can have on your health.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can be a significant health concern, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Concentrations of VOCs can be up to 10 times higher indoors than out, and building materials are among the sources of these noxious chemicals, the EPA says.
While VOCs and other home toxins can cause respiratory irritation in healthy people, they can be particularly troublesome to anyone who suffers from asthma or allergies. Many homeowners, striving to minimize the impact of their home improvement or new building projects on the environment and their health, are opting to use less toxic building materials.
One time-tested product at the heart of the healthy building trend is ceramic tile. In fact, the Healthy Building Network recommends ceramic tile as an alternative to widely used vinyl, one of the biggest generators of VOCs in home environments.
"Healthy design finds a natural partner in ceramic tile," says Patti Fasan, Tile of Spain ceramic tile consultant. "It's a hygienic, multi-use product that is eco-friendly, fire-resistant, slip-resistant and one of the strongest finish materials available."
The experts at Tile of Spain point to the healthful benefits of ceramic tile:
* Cleaner surfaces - Whether you use it on the bathroom floor or the wall of a master bedroom, ceramic tile is cleaner than other traditional surfaces. Because it's an inert material, ceramic tile won't harbor bacteria or other micro-organisms like mold or mildew. You can clean it with hot water; no chemicals or detergents are needed.
* VOC-free - Ceramic tile does not release any VOCs, the most prevalent type of indoor irritant.
* Allergy-friendly - Carpet can harbor dust, pet dander and other allergens. Ceramic tile does not, making it a more healthful alternative for people who suffer from allergies.
* Less places for dirt to hide - New, larger format tiles like Keraben's Transit Collection that are 33 inches by 97 inches, cover more surface area and require less mortar or grout, meaning there are fewer places for dirt and microbes to hide. You can also find grout with antimicrobial properties to help keep this area clean as well.
* Eco-friendly - If your health concerns extend to the environment as well, ceramic tile is an environmentally responsible building material. Clay, water and fire are the basic natural resources needed to create ceramic tile. And tile's durability ensures a longer life cycle, meaning less construction debris in landfills.
* Very versatile - It's now possible to achieve virtually any look with ceramic tile - even the appearance of natural wood. For example, the Contempora Collection by Saloni offers a range of wood-plan looks that create effects ranging from rustic chic to sleek contemporary. This versatility means you can use ceramic tile throughout the home, not just on the bathroom floor or kitchen backsplash.
With demand continuing to grow for more healthful building material alternatives, homeowners are rediscovering ceramic tile, and incorporating it into their home improvement and building projects in new ways. To learn more about ceramic tile, visit www.tileofspainusa.com.";s:7:"summary";s:3685:"(ARA) - If you've ever had new carpeting installed in your house and found yourself suffering from a nagging cough for days afterward, you've experienced the effect some home improvement materials can have on your health.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can be a significant health concern, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Concentrations of VOCs can be up to 10 times higher indoors than out, and building materials are among the sources of these noxious chemicals, the EPA says.
While VOCs and other home toxins can cause respiratory irritation in healthy people, they can be particularly troublesome to anyone who suffers from asthma or allergies. Many homeowners, striving to minimize the impact of their home improvement or new building projects on the environment and their health, are opting to use less toxic building materials.
One time-tested product at the heart of the healthy building trend is ceramic tile. In fact, the Healthy Building Network recommends ceramic tile as an alternative to widely used vinyl, one of the biggest generators of VOCs in home environments.
"Healthy design finds a natural partner in ceramic tile," says Patti Fasan, Tile of Spain ceramic tile consultant. "It's a hygienic, multi-use product that is eco-friendly, fire-resistant, slip-resistant and one of the strongest finish materials available."
The experts at Tile of Spain point to the healthful benefits of ceramic tile:
* Cleaner surfaces - Whether you use it on the bathroom floor or the wall of a master bedroom, ceramic tile is cleaner than other traditional surfaces. Because it's an inert material, ceramic tile won't harbor bacteria or other micro-organisms like mold or mildew. You can clean it with hot water; no chemicals or detergents are needed.
* VOC-free - Ceramic tile does not release any VOCs, the most prevalent type of indoor irritant.
* Allergy-friendly - Carpet can harbor dust, pet dander and other allergens. Ceramic tile does not, making it a more healthful alternative for people who suffer from allergies.
* Less places for dirt to hide - New, larger format tiles like Keraben's Transit Collection that are 33 inches by 97 inches, cover more surface area and require less mortar or grout, meaning there are fewer places for dirt and microbes to hide. You can also find grout with antimicrobial properties to help keep this area clean as well.
* Eco-friendly - If your health concerns extend to the environment as well, ceramic tile is an environmentally responsible building material. Clay, water and fire are the basic natural resources needed to create ceramic tile. And tile's durability ensures a longer life cycle, meaning less construction debris in landfills.
* Very versatile - It's now possible to achieve virtually any look with ceramic tile - even the appearance of natural wood. For example, the Contempora Collection by Saloni offers a range of wood-plan looks that create effects ranging from rustic chic to sleek contemporary. This versatility means you can use ceramic tile throughout the home, not just on the bathroom floor or kitchen backsplash.
With demand continuing to grow for more healthful building material alternatives, homeowners are rediscovering ceramic tile, and incorporating it into their home improvement and building projects in new ways. To learn more about ceramic tile, visit www.tileofspainusa.com.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1320379200;}i:35;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:75:"Holiday travel and shopping season prompt increased concern for home safety";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8061600101";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"11/15/2011";s:11:"description";s:4193:"(ARA) - We all fondly remember it - young Macaulay Culkin defending his home from rough and tough burglars Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern with a fake dinner party, booby traps and even a hot iron. But while "Home Alone" is a fun holiday movie to watch, it's also a good reminder of the dark side that the holiday travel and shopping season can bring: home robberies. With the extreme rush and excitement of the holiday season, homeowners focus on shopping and travel rather than the safety of their homes, and basic steps to protect households are often overlooked.
On average, 117 million Americans travel during the holidays, spending three to five days away from home while gone. According to resources like the Uniform Crime Reporting Program, studies show that lack of preparation or clear holes in security are the main causes of home invasion during this time. Victims of these holiday hoodlums say that they would have taken steps to improve the safety of their home had they been aware of its vulnerability. Dropcam, Inc., maker of the most versatile Wi-Fi video camera and intelligent streaming service, offers the following 10 tips to ensure home owners take the proper steps to keep their homes protected:
1. Leave a key with a friend or relative who can stop by to check that everything is in order; having someone regularly visit the house will deter home invaders.
2. Let close neighbors know how long you will be out of town so they can keep an eye out for suspicious activity or individuals.
3. Research and use "home safety" technology such as a Wi-Fi video camera to keep an eye on things while you're gone, and smartphone apps such as ones that allow you to turn lights on and off remotely.
4. Ask a neighbor to shovel your driveway every few days and create tracks in the snow to show foot traffic to make it look like your home is lived-in.
5. If you have a neighborhood watch service, let them know the days you will be out of town and ask that they check in on your house and walk around the backyard.
6. Double-check that all doors, windows and pet exits are shut and locked before you leave.
7. Use a timer to switch on indoor lights at different times throughout the day to give the impression that someone is home.
8. Remove high value or attractive contents from windows, and bring any bicycles inside the house or garage.
9. Break down boxes of expensive gifts such as electronics, and carefully place them in trashcans so not to advertise to others the nice gifts under the tree.
10. Do not use social media like Facebook or Twitter to publicize that you will be out of town.
"We unfortunately see an increase of burglaries during the holidays, and many are simply the result of distraction and ill-preparedness," says Gary Miller, former police chief of the Boerne Police Department in Texas. "There are about five million homes burglarized each year in the U.S. and it's important to use common sense and understand it can happen to you. It only takes one time so you should keep home safety top of mind, especially in December when your home is not only more valuable, but also more vulnerable."
Dropcam's camera and streaming service is one product you can buy this season that can help you keep a watchful eye on your home. After setting up a Dropcam HD, you can access your real-time video stream on a computer, smartphone or tablet for on-the-go 24/7 viewing. You can also stay up to date with instant email and push alerts for motion and audio detection. With Dropcam DVR, you can record up to 30 days of moment-by-moment video. Personal video feeds can be safely and privately shared with friends and family. Some examples of how people are using their Wi-Fi video cameras can be found at www.dropcam.com/demo.
"Having a video monitoring system is a great way to increase your home security and ensure you don't miss an important moment. Any extra measure you can take will pay off," Miller says.";s:7:"summary";s:4193:"(ARA) - We all fondly remember it - young Macaulay Culkin defending his home from rough and tough burglars Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern with a fake dinner party, booby traps and even a hot iron. But while "Home Alone" is a fun holiday movie to watch, it's also a good reminder of the dark side that the holiday travel and shopping season can bring: home robberies. With the extreme rush and excitement of the holiday season, homeowners focus on shopping and travel rather than the safety of their homes, and basic steps to protect households are often overlooked.
On average, 117 million Americans travel during the holidays, spending three to five days away from home while gone. According to resources like the Uniform Crime Reporting Program, studies show that lack of preparation or clear holes in security are the main causes of home invasion during this time. Victims of these holiday hoodlums say that they would have taken steps to improve the safety of their home had they been aware of its vulnerability. Dropcam, Inc., maker of the most versatile Wi-Fi video camera and intelligent streaming service, offers the following 10 tips to ensure home owners take the proper steps to keep their homes protected:
1. Leave a key with a friend or relative who can stop by to check that everything is in order; having someone regularly visit the house will deter home invaders.
2. Let close neighbors know how long you will be out of town so they can keep an eye out for suspicious activity or individuals.
3. Research and use "home safety" technology such as a Wi-Fi video camera to keep an eye on things while you're gone, and smartphone apps such as ones that allow you to turn lights on and off remotely.
4. Ask a neighbor to shovel your driveway every few days and create tracks in the snow to show foot traffic to make it look like your home is lived-in.
5. If you have a neighborhood watch service, let them know the days you will be out of town and ask that they check in on your house and walk around the backyard.
6. Double-check that all doors, windows and pet exits are shut and locked before you leave.
7. Use a timer to switch on indoor lights at different times throughout the day to give the impression that someone is home.
8. Remove high value or attractive contents from windows, and bring any bicycles inside the house or garage.
9. Break down boxes of expensive gifts such as electronics, and carefully place them in trashcans so not to advertise to others the nice gifts under the tree.
10. Do not use social media like Facebook or Twitter to publicize that you will be out of town.
"We unfortunately see an increase of burglaries during the holidays, and many are simply the result of distraction and ill-preparedness," says Gary Miller, former police chief of the Boerne Police Department in Texas. "There are about five million homes burglarized each year in the U.S. and it's important to use common sense and understand it can happen to you. It only takes one time so you should keep home safety top of mind, especially in December when your home is not only more valuable, but also more vulnerable."
Dropcam's camera and streaming service is one product you can buy this season that can help you keep a watchful eye on your home. After setting up a Dropcam HD, you can access your real-time video stream on a computer, smartphone or tablet for on-the-go 24/7 viewing. You can also stay up to date with instant email and push alerts for motion and audio detection. With Dropcam DVR, you can record up to 30 days of moment-by-moment video. Personal video feeds can be safely and privately shared with friends and family. Some examples of how people are using their Wi-Fi video cameras can be found at www.dropcam.com/demo.
"Having a video monitoring system is a great way to increase your home security and ensure you don't miss an important moment. Any extra measure you can take will pay off," Miller says.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1321333200;}i:36;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:56:"What efficient fuel heats your home and saves you money?";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8055680303";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"1/27/2012";s:11:"description";s:4052:"(ARA) - Cold days are here to stay, and the lower the temperature goes, the higher the utility costs are to heat your home. What if there was a way to heat your house for significantly less? Biomass fuels - natural, clean-burning, inexpensive fuels - offer a smart solution that can lower your heating costs and reduce your carbon footprint.
Biomass fuel 101
Biomass fuels are natural fuels that are renewable and clean burning. Examples of biomass fuels include wood pellets, wood chips, paper and other agricultural byproducts. Wood pellets are the most common option. Most homeowners who use these types of fuels will install a pellet stove or insert to heat their home. Approximately 1 million homes and businesses in the U.S. use wood pellets for heat, according to the Pellet Fuels Institute.
Cost savings
The cost of heating by pellet is much less than oil, propane or electric, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Want to know how much you could save? Check out the pellet fuel cost-calculator from Hearth & Home Technologies. Heating with pellets also helps control heating costs since prices for pellets are more stable than propane, oil and natural gas.
Environmental impact
Much of the material used for wood pellets is unusable for other purposes. The material is considered second growth, and comes from the forest floor. This wood is no longer wasted - it is processed into tiny pellets that burn efficiently, with low CO2 and particulate emissions. By engineering crops and waste such as cornstalks, straw and forest waste, pellets can transform millions of tons of waste and put them to work, according to the Pellet Fuels Institute. Additionally, pellets are often locally derived, helping to reduce our dependence on foreign energy sources.
Pellet stoves and inserts
Pellet stoves are compact, attractive metal or cast iron stoves that look similar to wood-burning stoves. Pellet inserts, which are also available in attractive metal or cast iron, are installed inside an existing masonry fireplace. Typically both options include a thermostat you can program to control the heat of your home. The heat is created by pellets that are slowly fed from a storage container called a hopper into the burn-pot, creating a steady flame that produces steady heat. The size of pellet stove or insert needed depends on the size of your home, so be sure to talk to a professional about what size is right for your needs. Visit www.fireplaces.com to browse stove and insert options as well as find a professional near you.
Pellets needed
Wood pellets are widely available and can be found anywhere from local hardware supply stores to big box outlet stores. They can also be ordered online and delivered in bulk to most locations. Wood pellets are typically sold in 40-pound bags for between $4 and $7 depending on the type of wood used and availability. When burned in a high efficiency pellet stove, a 40-lb bag of pellets can provide about 24 hours of steady heat for 1500 square feet of living space.
Pellets vs. wood
You might be wondering why not just burn regular wood rather than pellets. Burning raw biomass fuel, like logs of wood, will not provide you with the heat efficiency of pellets. Pellets have significantly lower moisture content so they have a higher BTU value, meaning they burn more efficiently. They are also smaller, so you don't need to have a large area to keep many cords of raw wood. Pellet stoves and inserts burn much cleaner than wood - up to 50 times lower particulate emissions than older, non-EPA certified wood stoves or inserts, and up to five times lower than newer EPA-certified wood stoves and inserts.
Most American homeowners who switch to pellet heat will enjoy lower heating costs and a more environmentally-friendly home. Isn't it time to see if this option is right for you?";s:7:"summary";s:4052:"(ARA) - Cold days are here to stay, and the lower the temperature goes, the higher the utility costs are to heat your home. What if there was a way to heat your house for significantly less? Biomass fuels - natural, clean-burning, inexpensive fuels - offer a smart solution that can lower your heating costs and reduce your carbon footprint.
Biomass fuel 101
Biomass fuels are natural fuels that are renewable and clean burning. Examples of biomass fuels include wood pellets, wood chips, paper and other agricultural byproducts. Wood pellets are the most common option. Most homeowners who use these types of fuels will install a pellet stove or insert to heat their home. Approximately 1 million homes and businesses in the U.S. use wood pellets for heat, according to the Pellet Fuels Institute.
Cost savings
The cost of heating by pellet is much less than oil, propane or electric, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Want to know how much you could save? Check out the pellet fuel cost-calculator from Hearth & Home Technologies. Heating with pellets also helps control heating costs since prices for pellets are more stable than propane, oil and natural gas.
Environmental impact
Much of the material used for wood pellets is unusable for other purposes. The material is considered second growth, and comes from the forest floor. This wood is no longer wasted - it is processed into tiny pellets that burn efficiently, with low CO2 and particulate emissions. By engineering crops and waste such as cornstalks, straw and forest waste, pellets can transform millions of tons of waste and put them to work, according to the Pellet Fuels Institute. Additionally, pellets are often locally derived, helping to reduce our dependence on foreign energy sources.
Pellet stoves and inserts
Pellet stoves are compact, attractive metal or cast iron stoves that look similar to wood-burning stoves. Pellet inserts, which are also available in attractive metal or cast iron, are installed inside an existing masonry fireplace. Typically both options include a thermostat you can program to control the heat of your home. The heat is created by pellets that are slowly fed from a storage container called a hopper into the burn-pot, creating a steady flame that produces steady heat. The size of pellet stove or insert needed depends on the size of your home, so be sure to talk to a professional about what size is right for your needs. Visit www.fireplaces.com to browse stove and insert options as well as find a professional near you.
Pellets needed
Wood pellets are widely available and can be found anywhere from local hardware supply stores to big box outlet stores. They can also be ordered online and delivered in bulk to most locations. Wood pellets are typically sold in 40-pound bags for between $4 and $7 depending on the type of wood used and availability. When burned in a high efficiency pellet stove, a 40-lb bag of pellets can provide about 24 hours of steady heat for 1500 square feet of living space.
Pellets vs. wood
You might be wondering why not just burn regular wood rather than pellets. Burning raw biomass fuel, like logs of wood, will not provide you with the heat efficiency of pellets. Pellets have significantly lower moisture content so they have a higher BTU value, meaning they burn more efficiently. They are also smaller, so you don't need to have a large area to keep many cords of raw wood. Pellet stoves and inserts burn much cleaner than wood - up to 50 times lower particulate emissions than older, non-EPA certified wood stoves or inserts, and up to five times lower than newer EPA-certified wood stoves and inserts.
Most American homeowners who switch to pellet heat will enjoy lower heating costs and a more environmentally-friendly home. Isn't it time to see if this option is right for you?";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1327640400;}i:37;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:75:"How to protect your greatest asset - your home - from subterranean termites";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8063840101";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"1/24/2012";s:11:"description";s:3227:"(ARA) - When it comes to protecting your home's value, you have no control over some of the factors that influence real estate values, like nearby retail development or the job market in your area. You can, however, take control over one major factor in your home's value, its health and the health of your neighborhood - termites.
Termites cause more than $2 billion in damage every year to homes in the United States, and statistics show that's likely more damage than what fire, storms or earthquakes cause.
Subterranean termites are unlike many other problematic insects or rodents in that they forage for food 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They feed on wood and cellulose products, which are part of your home's construction.
Termites live in colonies underground or above ground in moist areas, according to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). Each colony can contain up to 2 million termites - meaning your home could have several million termites living around the foundation and they are constantly seeking a food source.
It is important to be able to spot the signs of a termite infestation by looking around your home. Termites typically create what are called mud tubes and together they travel through these tubes in search of new food sources. Look for these mud tubes along your home's exterior. Keep in mind that termites are very small in size - from 1/8 to 3/8 of an inch - so they can travel through small non-cellulose cracks in your home, such as through your foundation.
The NPMA offers several tips to help you reduce the possibility of a termite infestation. These include lowering the humidity in crawl spaces or other areas with reduced ventilation to eliminate a moist atmosphere - the kind that termites seek out. Also, it is very important to keep wood or scraps of lumber away from your home. Never pile firewood against your home; that's a sound food source for Subterranean termites. By putting lumber against your foundation or wall, you're in essence inviting termites to feed right next to your home.
The Sentricon Termite Colony Elimination System from Dow AgroSciences provides a tough, environmentally responsible solution for protection against termites. The Sentricon System features stations that are strategically placed eight to 10 feet around the perimeter of your home. Bait in each station is highly desirable to termites, so worker termites who are responsible for feeding the colony will feed upon it and bring it back to the colony. Once other termites feed upon it they will start to die off, but even if they don't feed on it the worker termites already have and once they die off, so does the colony's food source. Soon the termite colony will be eliminated.
The Sentricon Termite Colony Elimination System currently protects more than 2 million homes. For every system that is used, fewer liquid treatments are being applied, so that means fewer liquid termiticides are being injected into the soil. For more information about the Sentricon System, visit www.sentricon.com.";s:7:"summary";s:3227:"(ARA) - When it comes to protecting your home's value, you have no control over some of the factors that influence real estate values, like nearby retail development or the job market in your area. You can, however, take control over one major factor in your home's value, its health and the health of your neighborhood - termites.
Termites cause more than $2 billion in damage every year to homes in the United States, and statistics show that's likely more damage than what fire, storms or earthquakes cause.
Subterranean termites are unlike many other problematic insects or rodents in that they forage for food 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They feed on wood and cellulose products, which are part of your home's construction.
Termites live in colonies underground or above ground in moist areas, according to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). Each colony can contain up to 2 million termites - meaning your home could have several million termites living around the foundation and they are constantly seeking a food source.
It is important to be able to spot the signs of a termite infestation by looking around your home. Termites typically create what are called mud tubes and together they travel through these tubes in search of new food sources. Look for these mud tubes along your home's exterior. Keep in mind that termites are very small in size - from 1/8 to 3/8 of an inch - so they can travel through small non-cellulose cracks in your home, such as through your foundation.
The NPMA offers several tips to help you reduce the possibility of a termite infestation. These include lowering the humidity in crawl spaces or other areas with reduced ventilation to eliminate a moist atmosphere - the kind that termites seek out. Also, it is very important to keep wood or scraps of lumber away from your home. Never pile firewood against your home; that's a sound food source for Subterranean termites. By putting lumber against your foundation or wall, you're in essence inviting termites to feed right next to your home.
The Sentricon Termite Colony Elimination System from Dow AgroSciences provides a tough, environmentally responsible solution for protection against termites. The Sentricon System features stations that are strategically placed eight to 10 feet around the perimeter of your home. Bait in each station is highly desirable to termites, so worker termites who are responsible for feeding the colony will feed upon it and bring it back to the colony. Once other termites feed upon it they will start to die off, but even if they don't feed on it the worker termites already have and once they die off, so does the colony's food source. Soon the termite colony will be eliminated.
The Sentricon Termite Colony Elimination System currently protects more than 2 million homes. For every system that is used, fewer liquid treatments are being applied, so that means fewer liquid termiticides are being injected into the soil. For more information about the Sentricon System, visit www.sentricon.com.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1327381200;}i:38;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:48:"How today's vinyl siding packs extreme toughness";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8062580103";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"12/8/2011";s:11:"description";s:3356:"(ARA) - Through tempestuous weather and extreme four-season cycles, today's vinyl siding is living up to both the style and durability demands of discerning builders, remodelers, architects, homeowners and multifamily developers. Manufacturing advancements allow the market's innovative producers to artistically recreate looks of genuine weathered cedar, reclaimed brick and deeply-faceted stone.
One manufacturer, Foundry Siding by The Tapco Group, offers a line of Shakes, Shingles and Shapes along with various stone siding profiles and colors in its expanding Stone Collection. While their authenticity to the "real thing" rings true, these premium vinyl panels surpass natural counterparts with an optimal blend of affordability and stout performance - top level Class 1(A) fire resistance, 170 mph wind load rating, 60-plus pounds per inch of impact resistance and limited lifetime warranty.
"The Foundry has great looks and I like the fact that it meets the strict Florida building code wind load requirement," says George Williams, owner of Precision Homecrafters in Birmingham, Ala. "With the Foundry's cedar shake profile, until you walk up and touch it, you don't know that it's vinyl. I put it on my home - people see it and they really like it," notes Williams, who also appreciates the siding's ultra-low maintenance.
"With our weather the way it is - the severe winters and cold, and also the humidity changes - it's the right product," agrees Ray Leonard, construction superintendent at Oot Bros. Construction, a third-generation family-owned builder in East Syracuse, N.Y.
Foundry panels are thicker than many PVC panels, but are thinner and lighter than the polypropylene panels historically used to recreate shake and shingle profiles, so they are easier to cut with snips but still have authentic cast-from-cedar detail. Another major difference distinguishing The Foundry from polypropylene is its Class A fire rating. No polypropylene siding can be listed as Class A due to its flame spread performance - it requires the option of a fire-resistive treatment in order to meet Class A standards.
The Foundry is certified to meet ASTM D3679 test standards for flammability, heat shrinkage, impact resistance, surface distortion, low-gloss and product weathering. Panels also exceed thickness requirements. The Foundry is ICC-ES certified and carries the Vinyl Siding Institute's third-party performance certification.
With an efficient 5-foot length, Foundry panels are easily transported, simple to hang, and generate little waste. Conversely, polypropylene shake products can have a scrap rate five times as high as The Foundry. In comparison with another cedar alternative, fiber cement shakes installed cost can add up to twice as much as premium vinyl. Fiber cement also requires regular painting.
With high-performance vinyl's graduation from a history of limited neutral colors, innovations in UV-fade protection have allowed for enhanced color retention. In the Foundry's case, a proprietary cap stock keeps its bold spectrum of 41 colors looking rich.
The Foundry is a division of The Tapco Group, a U.S. Green Building Council member. For more information, visit www.foundrysiding.com or call (800) 771-4486";s:7:"summary";s:3356:"(ARA) - Through tempestuous weather and extreme four-season cycles, today's vinyl siding is living up to both the style and durability demands of discerning builders, remodelers, architects, homeowners and multifamily developers. Manufacturing advancements allow the market's innovative producers to artistically recreate looks of genuine weathered cedar, reclaimed brick and deeply-faceted stone.
One manufacturer, Foundry Siding by The Tapco Group, offers a line of Shakes, Shingles and Shapes along with various stone siding profiles and colors in its expanding Stone Collection. While their authenticity to the "real thing" rings true, these premium vinyl panels surpass natural counterparts with an optimal blend of affordability and stout performance - top level Class 1(A) fire resistance, 170 mph wind load rating, 60-plus pounds per inch of impact resistance and limited lifetime warranty.
"The Foundry has great looks and I like the fact that it meets the strict Florida building code wind load requirement," says George Williams, owner of Precision Homecrafters in Birmingham, Ala. "With the Foundry's cedar shake profile, until you walk up and touch it, you don't know that it's vinyl. I put it on my home - people see it and they really like it," notes Williams, who also appreciates the siding's ultra-low maintenance.
"With our weather the way it is - the severe winters and cold, and also the humidity changes - it's the right product," agrees Ray Leonard, construction superintendent at Oot Bros. Construction, a third-generation family-owned builder in East Syracuse, N.Y.
Foundry panels are thicker than many PVC panels, but are thinner and lighter than the polypropylene panels historically used to recreate shake and shingle profiles, so they are easier to cut with snips but still have authentic cast-from-cedar detail. Another major difference distinguishing The Foundry from polypropylene is its Class A fire rating. No polypropylene siding can be listed as Class A due to its flame spread performance - it requires the option of a fire-resistive treatment in order to meet Class A standards.
The Foundry is certified to meet ASTM D3679 test standards for flammability, heat shrinkage, impact resistance, surface distortion, low-gloss and product weathering. Panels also exceed thickness requirements. The Foundry is ICC-ES certified and carries the Vinyl Siding Institute's third-party performance certification.
With an efficient 5-foot length, Foundry panels are easily transported, simple to hang, and generate little waste. Conversely, polypropylene shake products can have a scrap rate five times as high as The Foundry. In comparison with another cedar alternative, fiber cement shakes installed cost can add up to twice as much as premium vinyl. Fiber cement also requires regular painting.
With high-performance vinyl's graduation from a history of limited neutral colors, innovations in UV-fade protection have allowed for enhanced color retention. In the Foundry's case, a proprietary cap stock keeps its bold spectrum of 41 colors looking rich.
The Foundry is a division of The Tapco Group, a U.S. Green Building Council member. For more information, visit www.foundrysiding.com or call (800) 771-4486";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1323320400;}i:39;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:65:"Create the ultimate at-home stadium experience this sports season";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8054461010";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"11/4/2011";s:11:"description";s:4017:"(ARA) - With fall in the air, that means one thing for sports fans: its game time. Between the hard-hitting pro and college football seasons moving into high gear, the puck dropping on the hockey season and heart-pounding UFC and boxing cards, sports fans have countless games, matches and battles to enjoy.
Not convinced that sports mean that much to die-hard fans? Take March Madness, for example: Worker distraction due to the first week of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament can cost employers an estimated $192 million, according to Challenger, Gray & Christmas Inc., which releases an annual survey on the impact of the NCAA Tournament on workplace productivity.
While fans love the live experience of watching all the action play out right in front of their faces; it's the rare breed that makes it to every game so it's important to have the best back-up alternative: the right home set up.
Start with a picture-perfect TV
If you are going to have friends over to watch the game, a standard-definition TV no longer does the trick. A high-definition (HD) television, particularly LED back-lit, is a must-have for watching any game, and fans are tuning in from home in numbers well into the millions. For example, Nielsen ratings show that the NFL set a record in 2010 by reaching 207.7 million viewers throughout the year.
HD makes the action look better than ever, but its 3-D that really puts you IN the action. With networks like ESPN showing more live sports content in 3-D, now is the time for sports fans to give 3-D TV a shot. With the right TV, even if your game isn't being broadcast in 3-D, you can still get the in-your-face action you crave. For example, LG offers a 2-D to 3-D conversion with their Cinema 3-D models that allows you watch any sport in the third dimension.
Getting comfortable and affordable 3-D glasses is another key to good home viewing, especially for large groups. LG Cinema 3-D glasses are like the ones you get in a movie theater, as opposed to active-flicker glasses that require batteries, recharging, and are a lot more expensive. If you already wear regular glasses, you can even get clip-on versions of the polarized 3-D glasses.
Root for your team - from anywhere
Hardcore fans have been known to travel hundreds of miles just to watch their favorite team - just listen to St. Louis Cardinals fans at Chicago Cubs games, or Detroit Red Wings fans at hockey games in Florida. Other options when you don't live in your favorite team's city are expensive services you can buy through your TV provider to watch all the games - even the key out-of-market games you care about. But short of downloading apps to watch on your smartphone or tablet, it used to be a challenge, or very expensive, to watch what you care about on your TV.
Internet-connected "Smart TVs" are among the fastest-growing consumer electronics categories, and are ideal for the sofa-bound sports enthusiast. For example, Smart TVs and Blu-ray players from LG include sports content like MLB.TV, NHL and NBA (season permitting) to let you watch thousands of live HD streams of out-of-market games, and catch-up with your local team's games even after they've ended.
If your game isn't on, you can stream your favorite sports flick with apps from Netflix, Vudu or CinemaNow. Learn more at www.lg.com.
It's game time for diehard sports fans. For the hardcore fans that love the live action but can't be there in person, all it takes is the right gear to replicate the excitement from the comfort of their homes. From HDTV to 3-D TV to Smart TV, there's no better way to crave the wins, excitement and candid behind the scenes action, like watching the coach boil over or seeing the perfect human "wave" travel through a packed stadium.";s:7:"summary";s:4017:"(ARA) - With fall in the air, that means one thing for sports fans: its game time. Between the hard-hitting pro and college football seasons moving into high gear, the puck dropping on the hockey season and heart-pounding UFC and boxing cards, sports fans have countless games, matches and battles to enjoy.
Not convinced that sports mean that much to die-hard fans? Take March Madness, for example: Worker distraction due to the first week of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament can cost employers an estimated $192 million, according to Challenger, Gray & Christmas Inc., which releases an annual survey on the impact of the NCAA Tournament on workplace productivity.
While fans love the live experience of watching all the action play out right in front of their faces; it's the rare breed that makes it to every game so it's important to have the best back-up alternative: the right home set up.
Start with a picture-perfect TV
If you are going to have friends over to watch the game, a standard-definition TV no longer does the trick. A high-definition (HD) television, particularly LED back-lit, is a must-have for watching any game, and fans are tuning in from home in numbers well into the millions. For example, Nielsen ratings show that the NFL set a record in 2010 by reaching 207.7 million viewers throughout the year.
HD makes the action look better than ever, but its 3-D that really puts you IN the action. With networks like ESPN showing more live sports content in 3-D, now is the time for sports fans to give 3-D TV a shot. With the right TV, even if your game isn't being broadcast in 3-D, you can still get the in-your-face action you crave. For example, LG offers a 2-D to 3-D conversion with their Cinema 3-D models that allows you watch any sport in the third dimension.
Getting comfortable and affordable 3-D glasses is another key to good home viewing, especially for large groups. LG Cinema 3-D glasses are like the ones you get in a movie theater, as opposed to active-flicker glasses that require batteries, recharging, and are a lot more expensive. If you already wear regular glasses, you can even get clip-on versions of the polarized 3-D glasses.
Root for your team - from anywhere
Hardcore fans have been known to travel hundreds of miles just to watch their favorite team - just listen to St. Louis Cardinals fans at Chicago Cubs games, or Detroit Red Wings fans at hockey games in Florida. Other options when you don't live in your favorite team's city are expensive services you can buy through your TV provider to watch all the games - even the key out-of-market games you care about. But short of downloading apps to watch on your smartphone or tablet, it used to be a challenge, or very expensive, to watch what you care about on your TV.
Internet-connected "Smart TVs" are among the fastest-growing consumer electronics categories, and are ideal for the sofa-bound sports enthusiast. For example, Smart TVs and Blu-ray players from LG include sports content like MLB.TV, NHL and NBA (season permitting) to let you watch thousands of live HD streams of out-of-market games, and catch-up with your local team's games even after they've ended.
If your game isn't on, you can stream your favorite sports flick with apps from Netflix, Vudu or CinemaNow. Learn more at www.lg.com.
It's game time for diehard sports fans. For the hardcore fans that love the live action but can't be there in person, all it takes is the right gear to replicate the excitement from the comfort of their homes. From HDTV to 3-D TV to Smart TV, there's no better way to crave the wins, excitement and candid behind the scenes action, like watching the coach boil over or seeing the perfect human "wave" travel through a packed stadium.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1320379200;}i:40;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:67:"Don't shop till you drop: tips to make paint supply shopping easier";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8053834060";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"10/20/2011";s:11:"description";s:4244:"(ARA) - All painting projects begin the same way - with a trip to the hardware store or home center to gather supplies. But you're going to need much more than paint and a paintbrush. As you think about what you'd like to make over in your home with paint, take the "pain" out of paint supply shopping with helpful hints and tips from celebrity designer, Lisa LaPorta.
How much paint is enough?
You don't want to run out of paint mid-project or have gallons of a custom color left over when your project's complete. But how do you make sure you buy the right amount? Simply measure the room. "It might seem like the most obvious tip, but measuring the area you're painting is an easy way to save yourself some aggravation, time and money," LaPorta says. Typically, one gallon of paint covers 375 to 400 square feet. Measure walls with a tape measure, and multiply the height by the width (in feet, not inches). "Once you have your square footage calculated, write it down and bring it with you to the store so you can get the right amount of paint for each area. This way you'll get what you need during the first - and only - trip."
Beware of high-contrast color changes, like painting a light wall a dark color, or vice versa. This will likely require extra coats and, thus, more paint. Ask your paint retailer about selecting the right primer to reduce the number of coats you'll need, since it's less expensive than paint, saving you money in the long run.
Tools of the trade
When you're standing in the aisle, cheaper is always better, right? Wrong! In order to achieve professional-looking results, you need to think - and shop - like a pro. "Invest in high-quality tools that deliver a perfect finish every time, and not the least expensive products that will leave brush marks or streaks," LaPorta adds. "For more than 85 years, painting professionals and home improvement experts like me have turned to Purdy for the best in applicators and tools."
Purdy's new 9-inch cageless frame features a "dog-bone" design, which eliminates skipping and thumping on the wall when you're painting. You'll feel - and see - the difference as soon as you start rolling. "This lightweight, durable, high-performance roller will become a mainstay in your DIY painter's kit for years, helping you finish more jobs flawlessly than if you were to purchase inexpensive 'throw-away' sets each time you paint a space," LaPorta says.
Be sure to use this painting supplies checklist - and a few extra tips from LaPorta - to ensure you have everything you need to get your project done right, without running back to the store in the middle of it:
* Painter's tape - helps to keep clean lines as you cut in or paint trim
* Primer - use a primer to seal the walls so that paint covers smoothly and evenly
* Stir stick - make sure to ask the paint desk for stir sticks; it's always a good idea to stir paint and/or primer before you begin
* Pour spout - helps to pour paint with less mess; also keeps the can clean and label directions visible
* Roller tray and liner - you'll need a tray to dip your roller cover and brush into
* Roller cover - use a high-quality roller cover; for drywall or plaster, use covers designed for smooth/semi-smooth surfaces
* Paint brushes - available in various sizes, brushes help when painting corners and trim; angled options perform better for detailed work
* Drop cloths - good to protect your flooring, carpet and furniture while you're painting
* Screwdriver - when using paint in a metal can, this helps remove the lid
"Although you won't find it in the aisles of the hardware or home improvement store, a box of baby wipes is good to keep handy to quickly clean up any mistakes," LaPorta says. "If you take the time to do a little planning before you head to the store or start painting, it will go a long way in saving time and creating a perfectly painted space."
For more information about paint tools and applicators from Purdy, including the new 9-inch cageless frame, visit www.purdy.com.";s:7:"summary";s:4244:"(ARA) - All painting projects begin the same way - with a trip to the hardware store or home center to gather supplies. But you're going to need much more than paint and a paintbrush. As you think about what you'd like to make over in your home with paint, take the "pain" out of paint supply shopping with helpful hints and tips from celebrity designer, Lisa LaPorta.
How much paint is enough?
You don't want to run out of paint mid-project or have gallons of a custom color left over when your project's complete. But how do you make sure you buy the right amount? Simply measure the room. "It might seem like the most obvious tip, but measuring the area you're painting is an easy way to save yourself some aggravation, time and money," LaPorta says. Typically, one gallon of paint covers 375 to 400 square feet. Measure walls with a tape measure, and multiply the height by the width (in feet, not inches). "Once you have your square footage calculated, write it down and bring it with you to the store so you can get the right amount of paint for each area. This way you'll get what you need during the first - and only - trip."
Beware of high-contrast color changes, like painting a light wall a dark color, or vice versa. This will likely require extra coats and, thus, more paint. Ask your paint retailer about selecting the right primer to reduce the number of coats you'll need, since it's less expensive than paint, saving you money in the long run.
Tools of the trade
When you're standing in the aisle, cheaper is always better, right? Wrong! In order to achieve professional-looking results, you need to think - and shop - like a pro. "Invest in high-quality tools that deliver a perfect finish every time, and not the least expensive products that will leave brush marks or streaks," LaPorta adds. "For more than 85 years, painting professionals and home improvement experts like me have turned to Purdy for the best in applicators and tools."
Purdy's new 9-inch cageless frame features a "dog-bone" design, which eliminates skipping and thumping on the wall when you're painting. You'll feel - and see - the difference as soon as you start rolling. "This lightweight, durable, high-performance roller will become a mainstay in your DIY painter's kit for years, helping you finish more jobs flawlessly than if you were to purchase inexpensive 'throw-away' sets each time you paint a space," LaPorta says.
Be sure to use this painting supplies checklist - and a few extra tips from LaPorta - to ensure you have everything you need to get your project done right, without running back to the store in the middle of it:
* Painter's tape - helps to keep clean lines as you cut in or paint trim
* Primer - use a primer to seal the walls so that paint covers smoothly and evenly
* Stir stick - make sure to ask the paint desk for stir sticks; it's always a good idea to stir paint and/or primer before you begin
* Pour spout - helps to pour paint with less mess; also keeps the can clean and label directions visible
* Roller tray and liner - you'll need a tray to dip your roller cover and brush into
* Roller cover - use a high-quality roller cover; for drywall or plaster, use covers designed for smooth/semi-smooth surfaces
* Paint brushes - available in various sizes, brushes help when painting corners and trim; angled options perform better for detailed work
* Drop cloths - good to protect your flooring, carpet and furniture while you're painting
* Screwdriver - when using paint in a metal can, this helps remove the lid
"Although you won't find it in the aisles of the hardware or home improvement store, a box of baby wipes is good to keep handy to quickly clean up any mistakes," LaPorta says. "If you take the time to do a little planning before you head to the store or start painting, it will go a long way in saving time and creating a perfectly painted space."
For more information about paint tools and applicators from Purdy, including the new 9-inch cageless frame, visit www.purdy.com.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1319083200;}i:41;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:61:"Lumens, CFLs and LEDs: A light bulb guide for new regulations";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8052540507";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"11/3/2011";s:11:"description";s:4449:"(ARA) - You've probably been hearing the talk of federal light bulb regulations for years, but in January 2012, the talk will become reality, and these regulations will begin to take effect. While California residents began the transition in January 2011, the federally mandated phase-out of less efficient incandescent light bulbs begins with the 100-watt light bulb on Jan. 1, 2012, so now is the time for the rest of the country to make the switch to more efficient bulbs.
Before you begin considering your options, here's a quick review of how the new regulations will work:
* Incandescent, or traditional, 100-watt light bulbs for general purpose, household shape lamps will no longer be available in stores beginning January 2012. Retailers will be able to sell-through any existing inventory, but the traditional 100-watt incandescent bulbs will not be replaced on the shelf.
* Incandescent 75-watt light bulbs will be unavailable in 2013.
* Incandescent 40-watt and 60-watt light bulbs will be phased out in 2014.
As these rules phase in gradually, it's a great time to educate yourself on the different types of energy-efficient light bulbs available. Lowe's is joining the effort to advise consumers on the types of options available. In addition to offering a comprehensive light bulb buying guide on its website, Lowe's offers the following tips as you bring your lighting into the future.
Learning about lumens
As we transition away from incandescent bulbs, the lingo used to describe the brightness of the light bulbs is changing. We've become accustomed to identifying the brightness of a light bulb by the amount of power - watts - that it uses. However, more efficient light bulbs emit the same amount of light - measured in lumens - while using less electricity.
For example, the following light bulbs all produce roughly the same amount of light (450 lumens): 40-watt incandescent, 29-watt halogen, 11-watt compact fluorescent (CFL) and 9-watt LED. It's still important to pay attention to wattage to make sure you don't exceed the recommended level for your lamp, but it's increasingly unlikely that you'll exceed that level as you purchase more efficient bulbs.
Types of bulbs available
As you move on from incandescent bulbs, you'll want to familiarize yourself with the different types of more energy-efficient bulbs available. These bulbs will consume less energy and last longer, saving you money on monthly utility bills.
Compact fluorescent: CFL bulbs are more expensive than incandescent bulbs, but use up to 75 percent less energy and last up to 10 times as long, making it easy for you to quickly recoup the money you spend on them. You can save up to $70 per year by placing CFLs in your five most commonly used lamps, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. You've likely seen them in spiral or tube-like shapes, but CFLs also come in the A-line form common in most incandescent bulbs.
Halogen: These bulbs use the same technology as incandescent bulbs but last up to three times longer and are about 50 percent more efficient. Halogens are known for producing the highest quality light but aren't as efficient as CFLs. When changing halogens, you'll want to make sure you use a rag because oil from your skin can reduce the bulb's longevity.
LED: Lowe's began offering the industry's first Energy Star-qualified LED bulb this year - the GE Energy Smart 9-watt LED light bulb. LED bulbs take the efficiency and durability of CFLs even further, as this bulb is rated to last more than 22 years and uses slightly less energy than a CFL bulb that also produces 450 lumens.
For more information on what the light bulb legislation means for you, visit the Lowe's YouTube channel for a light bulb tutorial.";s:7:"summary";s:4449:"(ARA) - You've probably been hearing the talk of federal light bulb regulations for years, but in January 2012, the talk will become reality, and these regulations will begin to take effect. While California residents began the transition in January 2011, the federally mandated phase-out of less efficient incandescent light bulbs begins with the 100-watt light bulb on Jan. 1, 2012, so now is the time for the rest of the country to make the switch to more efficient bulbs.
Before you begin considering your options, here's a quick review of how the new regulations will work:
* Incandescent, or traditional, 100-watt light bulbs for general purpose, household shape lamps will no longer be available in stores beginning January 2012. Retailers will be able to sell-through any existing inventory, but the traditional 100-watt incandescent bulbs will not be replaced on the shelf.
* Incandescent 75-watt light bulbs will be unavailable in 2013.
* Incandescent 40-watt and 60-watt light bulbs will be phased out in 2014.
As these rules phase in gradually, it's a great time to educate yourself on the different types of energy-efficient light bulbs available. Lowe's is joining the effort to advise consumers on the types of options available. In addition to offering a comprehensive light bulb buying guide on its website, Lowe's offers the following tips as you bring your lighting into the future.
Learning about lumens
As we transition away from incandescent bulbs, the lingo used to describe the brightness of the light bulbs is changing. We've become accustomed to identifying the brightness of a light bulb by the amount of power - watts - that it uses. However, more efficient light bulbs emit the same amount of light - measured in lumens - while using less electricity.
For example, the following light bulbs all produce roughly the same amount of light (450 lumens): 40-watt incandescent, 29-watt halogen, 11-watt compact fluorescent (CFL) and 9-watt LED. It's still important to pay attention to wattage to make sure you don't exceed the recommended level for your lamp, but it's increasingly unlikely that you'll exceed that level as you purchase more efficient bulbs.
Types of bulbs available
As you move on from incandescent bulbs, you'll want to familiarize yourself with the different types of more energy-efficient bulbs available. These bulbs will consume less energy and last longer, saving you money on monthly utility bills.
Compact fluorescent: CFL bulbs are more expensive than incandescent bulbs, but use up to 75 percent less energy and last up to 10 times as long, making it easy for you to quickly recoup the money you spend on them. You can save up to $70 per year by placing CFLs in your five most commonly used lamps, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. You've likely seen them in spiral or tube-like shapes, but CFLs also come in the A-line form common in most incandescent bulbs.
Halogen: These bulbs use the same technology as incandescent bulbs but last up to three times longer and are about 50 percent more efficient. Halogens are known for producing the highest quality light but aren't as efficient as CFLs. When changing halogens, you'll want to make sure you use a rag because oil from your skin can reduce the bulb's longevity.
LED: Lowe's began offering the industry's first Energy Star-qualified LED bulb this year - the GE Energy Smart 9-watt LED light bulb. LED bulbs take the efficiency and durability of CFLs even further, as this bulb is rated to last more than 22 years and uses slightly less energy than a CFL bulb that also produces 450 lumens.
For more information on what the light bulb legislation means for you, visit the Lowe's YouTube channel for a light bulb tutorial.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1320292800;}i:42;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:40:"Keep your garage looking good all winter";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8057140101";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"11/9/2011";s:11:"description";s:2506:"(ARA) - Colder weather not only has you shutting the windows and cranking up the heat, but also bringing your vehicles into the garage to protect them from the winter elements.
Housing your vehicles in the garage is one thing, but this space houses your workshop, big toys and, in some cases, the man cave where you escape for a football game or afternoon of hanging out with some pals. This is the perfect time of year to make your garage the storage and hang-out space you need for those long winter months.
Here are a few tips that can help you turn your garage into a space that meets all your requirements for many years to come:
* Clean it up. Take the time during these long winter months to clean out the garage of anything not needed (broken car parts, duplicate tools, half-empty cans of paint or stain and even products you've outgrown) and find storage space for what's left over. Purchase storage containers and shelving, or build hanging racks to help get your to keep items off the floor and out of the way. Wash down the floors, scrub the walls and let it dry out before putting everything back in.
* Protect your floors. After driving through the slush and snow, your car or truck is going to be bringing a lot of sand and salt chemicals into your garage. As it melts, this corrosive mixture congregates on the floor, developing pockmarks and cracks in the concrete. Give your garage floor a protective coating like ASPART-X from LINE-X. It's waterproof, abrasion and chemical resistant, and can be customized to any color with the potential for color chips to be added in. It's perfect for designing your man cave with the colors of your favorite team. And think of the concrete repairs you'll save money on down the road.
* Maintenance is important. Sometimes just cleaning the garage isn't enough. You may need to invest a bit of time and energy into the electrical and - if included - heating as well. Replace all the batteries in your garage door openers, and clean the weather stripping between the door panels. Also have a heating professional check out your garage heater at the same time you are getting your home furnace inspected and cleaned. You don't want to come out to the garage on the day the temps drop below freezing and discover the heater isn't working.
Try these tips to turn your garage into a great work space, storage space and potential man cave to hang out with your pals.";s:7:"summary";s:2506:"(ARA) - Colder weather not only has you shutting the windows and cranking up the heat, but also bringing your vehicles into the garage to protect them from the winter elements.
Housing your vehicles in the garage is one thing, but this space houses your workshop, big toys and, in some cases, the man cave where you escape for a football game or afternoon of hanging out with some pals. This is the perfect time of year to make your garage the storage and hang-out space you need for those long winter months.
Here are a few tips that can help you turn your garage into a space that meets all your requirements for many years to come:
* Clean it up. Take the time during these long winter months to clean out the garage of anything not needed (broken car parts, duplicate tools, half-empty cans of paint or stain and even products you've outgrown) and find storage space for what's left over. Purchase storage containers and shelving, or build hanging racks to help get your to keep items off the floor and out of the way. Wash down the floors, scrub the walls and let it dry out before putting everything back in.
* Protect your floors. After driving through the slush and snow, your car or truck is going to be bringing a lot of sand and salt chemicals into your garage. As it melts, this corrosive mixture congregates on the floor, developing pockmarks and cracks in the concrete. Give your garage floor a protective coating like ASPART-X from LINE-X. It's waterproof, abrasion and chemical resistant, and can be customized to any color with the potential for color chips to be added in. It's perfect for designing your man cave with the colors of your favorite team. And think of the concrete repairs you'll save money on down the road.
* Maintenance is important. Sometimes just cleaning the garage isn't enough. You may need to invest a bit of time and energy into the electrical and - if included - heating as well. Replace all the batteries in your garage door openers, and clean the weather stripping between the door panels. Also have a heating professional check out your garage heater at the same time you are getting your home furnace inspected and cleaned. You don't want to come out to the garage on the day the temps drop below freezing and discover the heater isn't working.
Try these tips to turn your garage into a great work space, storage space and potential man cave to hang out with your pals.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1320814800;}i:43;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:25:"Home roof maintenance 101";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8054720206";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"11/4/2011";s:11:"description";s:4920:"(ARA) - Most homeowners do not think about their roof on a daily basis. They assume that it is performing its duty unless something happens that tells them otherwise, such as a leak. Realistically, there were probably signs of roof trouble well in advance. Luckily, there are some easy tasks that can be done to help you keep an eye on the condition of your roof so your home and investment are properly protected.
Do-it-yourself visual inspection
With all types of home maintenance, safety is paramount. The following five actions can be done safely and help determine the condition of the roof.
Look around
Look around the neighborhood for other roofs being replaced, especially if the homes were built about the same time as yours. Chances are if your neighbors' roofs are showing signs of wear and tear or are being replaced, it may only be a matter of time before it's your turn.
Also when doing yard work, look along the ground around gutter downspouts to see if there are abnormal amounts of granules washing off the roof. Granules not only give your shingles a distinct appearance, they also protect the asphalt against premature aging. Finding a small sprinkling of granules is normal, but large piles may mean that your roof is losing its ability to protect against UV rays.
Look up
Another easy action that can be done while on the ground is to look up at the edges of the roof for shingle curling. When the corners of the shingle start curling, your roof can be more exposed to the elements, and if a proper roofing underlayment is missing, the interior of the home is also at risk of damage.
Look out
While on the second floor of your house, look out a window that overlooks part of the roof and look for shingle wear and tear or missing shingles. If you are already on the ladder cleaning out your gutters, you can conduct many of the same inspections. Cracks or missing granules showing patches of black asphalt could mean it's time for a new roof.
Look down
If you are not already in the practice of cleaning your gutters, you probably do not realize this is another element of protecting the life of your roof. By making sure gutters are clear of debris, you not only ensure proper drainage, but decrease the chance of ice damming in the winter. Ice dams can cause melting snow and ice to push under shingles and down through your roof deck into your attic or living space. There are special "ice and water" underlayment to help combat this issue. Owens Corning Roofing has several types called WeatherLock. Unfortunately, ice and water underlayment cannot be added to an existing roof, but is a great product to include if a new roofing system is needed.
Watch your roof's back
An additional area that is often overlooked in visual inspection is what is behind the shingles. Whenever you are in the attic, take a few minutes to look for problems such as water stains on the back of the wood decking or holes in the insulation. Also, make sure your attic ventilation system has free air flow. A balanced system of air intake and exhaust is preferred. Often times, the air flow can get blocked off at the soffit, which affects the performance of the system and can result in poor ventilation throughout the home.
Leave the hard work to the professionals
If you conduct these inspections and you notice that there are problems, it may be time to call a professional contractor to conduct a thorough inspection and make a recommendation on the actions to restore or replace the roof.
A complete roofing system consists of roofing shingles, as well as other essential components such as felt underlayment, ice and water waterproofing underlayment, starter shingles, ventilation products and hip and ridge shingles.
Owens Corning Roofing offers insight into the things you should know about your roof on their website, including information about locating and selecting the right roofing contractor. The site also has videos as well as an interactive tool, called DesignEyeQ Visualization Experience Tool which allows you to upload a picture of your roof and "try on" different shingles and color combinations.
A healthy roofing system is important for providing shelter to your family and for protecting your valuables and financial investment. Being proactive in watching the condition of your roof before being surprised by a leak could cost you less in the end. These few easy tips can help you properly maintain your roof, which can result in long-lasting comfort, beauty and overall energy efficiency.";s:7:"summary";s:4920:"(ARA) - Most homeowners do not think about their roof on a daily basis. They assume that it is performing its duty unless something happens that tells them otherwise, such as a leak. Realistically, there were probably signs of roof trouble well in advance. Luckily, there are some easy tasks that can be done to help you keep an eye on the condition of your roof so your home and investment are properly protected.
Do-it-yourself visual inspection
With all types of home maintenance, safety is paramount. The following five actions can be done safely and help determine the condition of the roof.
Look around
Look around the neighborhood for other roofs being replaced, especially if the homes were built about the same time as yours. Chances are if your neighbors' roofs are showing signs of wear and tear or are being replaced, it may only be a matter of time before it's your turn.
Also when doing yard work, look along the ground around gutter downspouts to see if there are abnormal amounts of granules washing off the roof. Granules not only give your shingles a distinct appearance, they also protect the asphalt against premature aging. Finding a small sprinkling of granules is normal, but large piles may mean that your roof is losing its ability to protect against UV rays.
Look up
Another easy action that can be done while on the ground is to look up at the edges of the roof for shingle curling. When the corners of the shingle start curling, your roof can be more exposed to the elements, and if a proper roofing underlayment is missing, the interior of the home is also at risk of damage.
Look out
While on the second floor of your house, look out a window that overlooks part of the roof and look for shingle wear and tear or missing shingles. If you are already on the ladder cleaning out your gutters, you can conduct many of the same inspections. Cracks or missing granules showing patches of black asphalt could mean it's time for a new roof.
Look down
If you are not already in the practice of cleaning your gutters, you probably do not realize this is another element of protecting the life of your roof. By making sure gutters are clear of debris, you not only ensure proper drainage, but decrease the chance of ice damming in the winter. Ice dams can cause melting snow and ice to push under shingles and down through your roof deck into your attic or living space. There are special "ice and water" underlayment to help combat this issue. Owens Corning Roofing has several types called WeatherLock. Unfortunately, ice and water underlayment cannot be added to an existing roof, but is a great product to include if a new roofing system is needed.
Watch your roof's back
An additional area that is often overlooked in visual inspection is what is behind the shingles. Whenever you are in the attic, take a few minutes to look for problems such as water stains on the back of the wood decking or holes in the insulation. Also, make sure your attic ventilation system has free air flow. A balanced system of air intake and exhaust is preferred. Often times, the air flow can get blocked off at the soffit, which affects the performance of the system and can result in poor ventilation throughout the home.
Leave the hard work to the professionals
If you conduct these inspections and you notice that there are problems, it may be time to call a professional contractor to conduct a thorough inspection and make a recommendation on the actions to restore or replace the roof.
A complete roofing system consists of roofing shingles, as well as other essential components such as felt underlayment, ice and water waterproofing underlayment, starter shingles, ventilation products and hip and ridge shingles.
Owens Corning Roofing offers insight into the things you should know about your roof on their website, including information about locating and selecting the right roofing contractor. The site also has videos as well as an interactive tool, called DesignEyeQ Visualization Experience Tool which allows you to upload a picture of your roof and "try on" different shingles and color combinations.
A healthy roofing system is important for providing shelter to your family and for protecting your valuables and financial investment. Being proactive in watching the condition of your roof before being surprised by a leak could cost you less in the end. These few easy tips can help you properly maintain your roof, which can result in long-lasting comfort, beauty and overall energy efficiency.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1320379200;}i:44;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:49:"Plan now for home improvement throughout the year";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8054380508";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"11/23/2011";s:11:"description";s:2652:"(ARA) - If you've finished making your holiday gift list, don't put the pen and paper away just yet. While the holidays take up a lot of attention right now, it's also a great time to look a bit further into the future. With the new year just around the corner, planning for home improvement projects now can help you prioritize and budget.
Spending more time indoors at home might be bringing some potential projects to your attention. Maybe you've noticed fraying carpet under your toes, chipped paint on a window frame or a paint color that feels outdated - whatever needs to be addressed should get marked down on your fix-it list.
Give yourself a deadline for completing the list and then call a household meeting to start prioritizing. One of the most important things you can bring to that meeting is an idea of how much you can afford to spend. Given that the economy is still lagging - and many people are feeling that pull on their pocketbooks - it's wisest to avoid going into debt to accomplish everything you want to do.
Setting a home improvement budget gives you parameters to work within as you weigh the importance of each project on your list. However, you should also come to the table with a reasonable idea of how much it will cost to complete each of the tasks you want to finish.
Armed with your list and your budgetary figures, go through each item, weighing the pros and cons of both doing it now and letting it wait. You'll inevitably have a lot of options, including putting things off and saving more money throughout the year, or investing some money in repairs now and letting your savings grow for midyear projects. Naturally, you'll also need to consider the constraints of weather on your projects - if you want to put on a new deck, you'll have to wait until at least spring. Consider the fact that an outdoor project might feel a lot more necessary when warmer weather arrives than it does now.
Your long-term plans for your home should also come into play. If you're planning on selling anytime soon, consider carefully whether the projects you plan on doing will pay off at sale time. Additionally, if you plan on catching a buyer's eye, take an objective look at what might help you make the sale. If you're working with a Realtor, you might even want to discuss with them the best fix-ups and repairs within your budget.";s:7:"summary";s:2652:"(ARA) - If you've finished making your holiday gift list, don't put the pen and paper away just yet. While the holidays take up a lot of attention right now, it's also a great time to look a bit further into the future. With the new year just around the corner, planning for home improvement projects now can help you prioritize and budget.
Spending more time indoors at home might be bringing some potential projects to your attention. Maybe you've noticed fraying carpet under your toes, chipped paint on a window frame or a paint color that feels outdated - whatever needs to be addressed should get marked down on your fix-it list.
Give yourself a deadline for completing the list and then call a household meeting to start prioritizing. One of the most important things you can bring to that meeting is an idea of how much you can afford to spend. Given that the economy is still lagging - and many people are feeling that pull on their pocketbooks - it's wisest to avoid going into debt to accomplish everything you want to do.
Setting a home improvement budget gives you parameters to work within as you weigh the importance of each project on your list. However, you should also come to the table with a reasonable idea of how much it will cost to complete each of the tasks you want to finish.
Armed with your list and your budgetary figures, go through each item, weighing the pros and cons of both doing it now and letting it wait. You'll inevitably have a lot of options, including putting things off and saving more money throughout the year, or investing some money in repairs now and letting your savings grow for midyear projects. Naturally, you'll also need to consider the constraints of weather on your projects - if you want to put on a new deck, you'll have to wait until at least spring. Consider the fact that an outdoor project might feel a lot more necessary when warmer weather arrives than it does now.
Your long-term plans for your home should also come into play. If you're planning on selling anytime soon, consider carefully whether the projects you plan on doing will pay off at sale time. Additionally, if you plan on catching a buyer's eye, take an objective look at what might help you make the sale. If you're working with a Realtor, you might even want to discuss with them the best fix-ups and repairs within your budget.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1322024400;}i:45;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:39:"Easy tips for fast and fun snow removal";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8057260303";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"12/8/2011";s:11:"description";s:3247:"(ARA) - When you look outside, do the large piles of snow leave you dreaming of spring? Since winter isn't going anywhere any time soon, you might as well make the most of the snowy outdoors. When you need to remove snow from your driveway and walkways, some simple tips will make the task easier. You might even enjoy getting outdoors for bit to breathe the crisp air and delight in the wonderment of winter.
1. Groups make snow fun.
While the chore of keeping walkways and driveways clean traditionally falls on fathers, there's no reason the whole family can't help out. Once snow has stopped falling, bundle the whole family up (appropriate attire is essential) and get them outside. Adults and older teens can handle the heavier shoveling tasks, while young children can help by sweeping light snow with brooms and spreading salt and sand.
2. Play it safe.
Straining your back while engaging in snow removal can leave you miserable. Before you set foot outside, make sure you have a proper snow shovel. Never use a garden spade or regular shovel to try to move snow; you'll only make the job harder. Remember to lift with your knees, avoid making twisting motions with your back, and push snow, rather than lift it, whenever possible.
3. Plow through the pile with a sport utility vehicle.
Plowing is the fastest, easiest way to clear your driveway, but until now you may have relied on professionals to do it for you or skipped it altogether because of the expense and inconvenience of waiting for the plow guy to show up. Some snow plow manufacturers are now making products that will work on most light pickups and SUVs, like the SnowSport HD by Agri-Cover. With no electrical or hydraulic moving parts, it's easy to install and use, reasonably priced, and allows you to quickly and easily move snow while in the comfort of your own vehicle. Learn more at MySnowSport.com.
4. Enjoy the snow and wait until the storm has passed.
You might think that you're reducing your workload later by shoveling while it's still snowing, but you're really just making more work for yourself. Wait until the snowstorm is over before you even think about snow removal. Allow yourself some time to enjoy the pristine snow with your family while looking out the window or get outside and build a snowman with the kids.
5. Take frequent breaks.
You might be tempted to just push through and get the job done as quickly as possible, but doing so means risking injury or exhaustion. It's important to give your body a rest. Snow removal works not only the muscles in your back, arms and legs, but bright sunlight reflected on snow can strain your eyes as well. So work for awhile, then take a 10 or 15-minute break. Drink a hot chocolate, check on the game, poke the fire, and take the time to relax before heading back out into the cold. Make sure to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water as well.
Winter weather will be around for a while longer, but with some caution, the right tools and a sense of fun, you can get through it, and ensure your driveway and sidewalks are safe.";s:7:"summary";s:3247:"(ARA) - When you look outside, do the large piles of snow leave you dreaming of spring? Since winter isn't going anywhere any time soon, you might as well make the most of the snowy outdoors. When you need to remove snow from your driveway and walkways, some simple tips will make the task easier. You might even enjoy getting outdoors for bit to breathe the crisp air and delight in the wonderment of winter.
1. Groups make snow fun.
While the chore of keeping walkways and driveways clean traditionally falls on fathers, there's no reason the whole family can't help out. Once snow has stopped falling, bundle the whole family up (appropriate attire is essential) and get them outside. Adults and older teens can handle the heavier shoveling tasks, while young children can help by sweeping light snow with brooms and spreading salt and sand.
2. Play it safe.
Straining your back while engaging in snow removal can leave you miserable. Before you set foot outside, make sure you have a proper snow shovel. Never use a garden spade or regular shovel to try to move snow; you'll only make the job harder. Remember to lift with your knees, avoid making twisting motions with your back, and push snow, rather than lift it, whenever possible.
3. Plow through the pile with a sport utility vehicle.
Plowing is the fastest, easiest way to clear your driveway, but until now you may have relied on professionals to do it for you or skipped it altogether because of the expense and inconvenience of waiting for the plow guy to show up. Some snow plow manufacturers are now making products that will work on most light pickups and SUVs, like the SnowSport HD by Agri-Cover. With no electrical or hydraulic moving parts, it's easy to install and use, reasonably priced, and allows you to quickly and easily move snow while in the comfort of your own vehicle. Learn more at MySnowSport.com.
4. Enjoy the snow and wait until the storm has passed.
You might think that you're reducing your workload later by shoveling while it's still snowing, but you're really just making more work for yourself. Wait until the snowstorm is over before you even think about snow removal. Allow yourself some time to enjoy the pristine snow with your family while looking out the window or get outside and build a snowman with the kids.
5. Take frequent breaks.
You might be tempted to just push through and get the job done as quickly as possible, but doing so means risking injury or exhaustion. It's important to give your body a rest. Snow removal works not only the muscles in your back, arms and legs, but bright sunlight reflected on snow can strain your eyes as well. So work for awhile, then take a 10 or 15-minute break. Drink a hot chocolate, check on the game, poke the fire, and take the time to relax before heading back out into the cold. Make sure to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water as well.
Winter weather will be around for a while longer, but with some caution, the right tools and a sense of fun, you can get through it, and ensure your driveway and sidewalks are safe.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1323320400;}i:46;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:58:"Transforming your exterior: lessons from the professionals";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8054240810";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"11/23/2011";s:11:"description";s:3953:"(ARA) - With more and more homeowners choosing to stay in their current homes instead of selling, many are deciding to remodel.
If you are thinking about remodeling your home, consider projects that will add style, but will also offer the best return on investment when it comes time to sell. With return on vinyl siding and vinyl window replacement each above 70 percent, according to "Remodeling" magazine's 2010-11 Cost vs. Value Report, it's apparent that homeowners can gain considerable curb appeal and return on investment by upgrading the exterior.
"Updating your home with new windows or siding is a great way to instantly boost curb appeal and reduce the maintenance of your home," said John Stephenson, vice president of marketing for Ply Gem, a leading exterior building products company. "But many people are beginning to consider the possibilities of an entire exterior remodel, by combining multiple product categories such as windows, siding and stone veneer. Homeowners can take their home beyond a simple product replacement, and instead give it architectural style and a new color scheme."
Ply Gem and remodeling company Case/Design Remodeling, Inc. offer advice on how to achieve a complete, architecturally-styled exterior remodel based on a recent before and after project.
Envision your dream home
"Having a vision helps your remodeling contractor understand what style you're looking for," said Bruce Case, president of Case/Design Remodeling, Inc. "Keep in mind, it's also important to select a style that fits with the neighborhood. It may be more difficult to sell in the future if you make a too drastic change."
Your remodeler can make style suggestions, or you can drive around older neighborhoods in your area to gauge ideas for what styles might work best.
For this project, together with the homeowners who were nominated by the community to receive a free renovation from Case/Design Remodeling, the team decided to transform the exterior using architectural elements of a shingle home style. This style worked well with the home's more traditional suburban Washington, D.C. neighborhood, and also worked well for renovating the colonial two-story exterior without significant structural changes.
Mix and match texture and color
More often than not, homeowners stick with the basics when taking on an exterior renovation. However, today's exterior building products allow for infinite options that can take your home to the next level and go beyond simply replacing windows and siding.
When remodeling this particular home from a 1970s colonial to a modern interpretation of a shingle style, it was important to incorporate new textures and colors to completely transform the look.
"This home had a watered down style, but also had inherent architectural elements to work with," said Deryl Patterson, principal, BSB Design architecture firm. "By replacing the lap siding with shingle siding, the brick with stone veneer, the windows with a colonial grille pattern, and adding red shutters, we were able to give it character."
Mixing and matching texture and color does not have to be an overwhelming process. Stephenson recommends homeowners look to collections like the Designed Exterior Collection by Ply Gem, which help simplify selection by identifying color palettes and product combinations that work for specific architectural styles.
Consider architectural details
Beyond texture and color changes, adding minor architectural details can make a big difference. For this project, a portico and roof gable were added, but did not require any structural changes or interior work. To see more of the renovation described in this story visit www.facebook.com/plygem.";s:7:"summary";s:3953:"(ARA) - With more and more homeowners choosing to stay in their current homes instead of selling, many are deciding to remodel.
If you are thinking about remodeling your home, consider projects that will add style, but will also offer the best return on investment when it comes time to sell. With return on vinyl siding and vinyl window replacement each above 70 percent, according to "Remodeling" magazine's 2010-11 Cost vs. Value Report, it's apparent that homeowners can gain considerable curb appeal and return on investment by upgrading the exterior.
"Updating your home with new windows or siding is a great way to instantly boost curb appeal and reduce the maintenance of your home," said John Stephenson, vice president of marketing for Ply Gem, a leading exterior building products company. "But many people are beginning to consider the possibilities of an entire exterior remodel, by combining multiple product categories such as windows, siding and stone veneer. Homeowners can take their home beyond a simple product replacement, and instead give it architectural style and a new color scheme."
Ply Gem and remodeling company Case/Design Remodeling, Inc. offer advice on how to achieve a complete, architecturally-styled exterior remodel based on a recent before and after project.
Envision your dream home
"Having a vision helps your remodeling contractor understand what style you're looking for," said Bruce Case, president of Case/Design Remodeling, Inc. "Keep in mind, it's also important to select a style that fits with the neighborhood. It may be more difficult to sell in the future if you make a too drastic change."
Your remodeler can make style suggestions, or you can drive around older neighborhoods in your area to gauge ideas for what styles might work best.
For this project, together with the homeowners who were nominated by the community to receive a free renovation from Case/Design Remodeling, the team decided to transform the exterior using architectural elements of a shingle home style. This style worked well with the home's more traditional suburban Washington, D.C. neighborhood, and also worked well for renovating the colonial two-story exterior without significant structural changes.
Mix and match texture and color
More often than not, homeowners stick with the basics when taking on an exterior renovation. However, today's exterior building products allow for infinite options that can take your home to the next level and go beyond simply replacing windows and siding.
When remodeling this particular home from a 1970s colonial to a modern interpretation of a shingle style, it was important to incorporate new textures and colors to completely transform the look.
"This home had a watered down style, but also had inherent architectural elements to work with," said Deryl Patterson, principal, BSB Design architecture firm. "By replacing the lap siding with shingle siding, the brick with stone veneer, the windows with a colonial grille pattern, and adding red shutters, we were able to give it character."
Mixing and matching texture and color does not have to be an overwhelming process. Stephenson recommends homeowners look to collections like the Designed Exterior Collection by Ply Gem, which help simplify selection by identifying color palettes and product combinations that work for specific architectural styles.
Consider architectural details
Beyond texture and color changes, adding minor architectural details can make a big difference. For this project, a portico and roof gable were added, but did not require any structural changes or interior work. To see more of the renovation described in this story visit www.facebook.com/plygem.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1322024400;}i:47;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:44:"The ins and outs of worry-free home security";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8056500102";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"10/27/2011";s:11:"description";s:3287:"(ARA) - As seasons change, homeowners' routines change along with them. Whether it's children coming in and out of the house more frequently between school and activities, or service workers helping to get home repairs done before the holidays, you want to ensure safe and controlled access when you're not available.
One recent "Key Hiding Habits" survey of homeowners in St. Louis found that respondents hide extra keys for such purposes in all kinds of places, from beneath a flowerpot to under the bushes - yet among those who do, about one fifth don't recall where they hid the key, leading to an opportunity for a lockout situation. In fact, getting locked out of the house happens more than you'd think. Over a 12-month period, a quarter of those polled were locked out at least once and a smaller number twice. Believe it or not, some were locked out five times or more.
To ensure worry-free home security, there are simple things you can do to help ensure that the right people can enter your home, and also deter those you want to keep out of your home. Here are some home security tips:
* Go keyless. Avoid keys entirely by upgrading to an electronic keypad door lock, eliminating any worries about lost keys or the need to keep making replacements. Electronic locks provide keyless entry to a home using secure access codes, so there's no more hiding of keys in places where the wrong person might find them.
For example, Schlage electronic locks can be installed quickly with just a screwdriver and allow you to add, change or delete user codes in seconds, ensuring that the people you want to enter your home can come and go as they please. You can also create a temporary code for someone such as a plumber or pet-sitter who needs to enter and exit while you're away. To learn more, visit http://www.keyless.schlage.com.
* Use motion sensors. In the fall and winter months of the year it's especially helpful to have a light on for family members and others who need to leave or come home in the dark. One way is to leave the porch light on, but you can take lighting a step further by installing motion-activated lights. Available in home improvement stores, these lights can be installed at your entry door or by the garage door, and will turn on automatically when a person or car approaches, ensuring a well-lit entry to your home and making it harder for intruders to hide in waiting.
* Make your home look lived in. If you keep the drapes and shades closed during the day, it can give an unintended signal to burglars that you're not home, so go ahead and leave the windows uncovered as if you were there. Turn down the ringer on your home phone, as well as the volume on the answering machine - while you're away at work, dashing back and forth between activities, or even if you're simply working in the garden or backyard - as these sounds can be a signal to others that no one's inside.
By making these easy changes, you can add to your home's security and also ensure greater convenience for the entire family.";s:7:"summary";s:3287:"(ARA) - As seasons change, homeowners' routines change along with them. Whether it's children coming in and out of the house more frequently between school and activities, or service workers helping to get home repairs done before the holidays, you want to ensure safe and controlled access when you're not available.
One recent "Key Hiding Habits" survey of homeowners in St. Louis found that respondents hide extra keys for such purposes in all kinds of places, from beneath a flowerpot to under the bushes - yet among those who do, about one fifth don't recall where they hid the key, leading to an opportunity for a lockout situation. In fact, getting locked out of the house happens more than you'd think. Over a 12-month period, a quarter of those polled were locked out at least once and a smaller number twice. Believe it or not, some were locked out five times or more.
To ensure worry-free home security, there are simple things you can do to help ensure that the right people can enter your home, and also deter those you want to keep out of your home. Here are some home security tips:
* Go keyless. Avoid keys entirely by upgrading to an electronic keypad door lock, eliminating any worries about lost keys or the need to keep making replacements. Electronic locks provide keyless entry to a home using secure access codes, so there's no more hiding of keys in places where the wrong person might find them.
For example, Schlage electronic locks can be installed quickly with just a screwdriver and allow you to add, change or delete user codes in seconds, ensuring that the people you want to enter your home can come and go as they please. You can also create a temporary code for someone such as a plumber or pet-sitter who needs to enter and exit while you're away. To learn more, visit http://www.keyless.schlage.com.
* Use motion sensors. In the fall and winter months of the year it's especially helpful to have a light on for family members and others who need to leave or come home in the dark. One way is to leave the porch light on, but you can take lighting a step further by installing motion-activated lights. Available in home improvement stores, these lights can be installed at your entry door or by the garage door, and will turn on automatically when a person or car approaches, ensuring a well-lit entry to your home and making it harder for intruders to hide in waiting.
* Make your home look lived in. If you keep the drapes and shades closed during the day, it can give an unintended signal to burglars that you're not home, so go ahead and leave the windows uncovered as if you were there. Turn down the ringer on your home phone, as well as the volume on the answering machine - while you're away at work, dashing back and forth between activities, or even if you're simply working in the garden or backyard - as these sounds can be a signal to others that no one's inside.
By making these easy changes, you can add to your home's security and also ensure greater convenience for the entire family.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1319688000;}i:48;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:61:"Simplify and organize: the hottest trends in home improvement";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8052540707";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"12/1/2011";s:11:"description";s:5308:"(ARA) - With the economy remaining uncertain, homeowners are tending to stay in place and upgrade their homes, rather than move up to something newer or larger. Just as economic conditions evolve, however, so does this housing trend. Simplifying and gaining control are now the hot incarnations of the "staying put" trend.
Organizational design expert, TV and radio personality, and author of numerous New York Times bestsellers, Peter Walsh hosts "Extreme Clutter" on the Oprah Winfrey Network and has starred on TLC's "Clean Sweep." Walsh offers some advice on how do-it-yourselfers can simplify home improvement, and gain control of their home environment, room by room:
Coping in the kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of the home, where you spend time as a family, prepare meals and entertain guests. All that activity and use can make it difficult to stay organized in the kitchen, but doing so can save you time and money.
* Maximize cupboard space with easy-to-install sliding racks. These racks make it easy and fast to find items, even in the deepest cupboards.
* Keep cooking utensils and flatware neat and easily accessible with a compartmentalized drawer organizer. You can find them in kitchen and home design stores.
* If you store often-used spices in a cupboard, it's easy to lose track of what's in there. You don't have to give up your cabinet convenience. Just put your most-used spices in a small baking sheet (you can even buy a disposable one) so that when you need something, you can slide the sheet out to make finding it easier.
* Retire your junk drawer - we all have one. It's the drawer where you deposit receipts, warranties, product manuals and other items. One way to clean up the paper portion of the mess is with an online organizational tool like MyLowe's on Lowes.com. The free online tool from home improvement retailer Lowe's allows you to keep track of purchases, warranties and manuals.
"I'm always trying to teach my fans the latest tips and techniques for organizing their homes and simplifying their lives, especially when families are staying in their homes longer in this uncertain economy," Walsh says. "Keeping track of everything in our homes is now so easy with MyLowe's, the newest and best way to take home maintenance and planning to a whole new level."
Cutting closet clutter
Whether you have a spacious walk-in closet or a modest single-bar one, keeping your bedroom closet organized can be a challenge. But an organized closet means speedier wardrobe changes and a more harmonious environment.
* "We wear 20 percent of our clothes 80 percent of the time," Walsh says. Declutter your closet by getting rid of that 80 percent you don't wear. At the start of the season, turn all your hangers so that they face back to front. When you take something out and wear it, rehang it the correct way. At the end of the season you'll be able to see which items you haven't worn. Those are the ones you can probably live without.
* Reclaim vertical space. Look for creative ways to use the walls, backs of doors and other vertical spaces in your closet. Modular home organization systems can solve most storage challenges.
Taming the toy room
Children outgrow toys almost as quickly as clothes. It's important to regularly sort toys with your children to decide what to discard, what to pass on and what to keep.
* Involve kids in deciding what should stay or go. Arrange toys in piles by type of toy, age appropriateness or length of time the child has had the toy. This will help your kids see the toys as distinct groups and make the task more manageable.
* Bring in space-maximizing organizational products like colorful cubbies with canvas bins or decorative shelving units. MyLowe's makes it easy to find storage products that will fit in your space. Simply enter your room dimensions and the site helps identify solutions that will fit your needs.
Advice for every room
Getting organized is great, but staying organized is even more important. Rather than having to tackle organization tasks in a daunting mass once or twice a year, take steps to stay organized throughout the year. A little organization today means fewer headaches tomorrow.
Keep track of your home improvement and decorating purchases, like the paint colors you use and the creative choices you make with MyLowe's. You can create a home profile and sort information by room, assign products and wish lists to each room, track purchases, store product manuals/warranties and more.
Organization issues stem from the stuff you have, and not just from the space you have. Anyone struggling with clutter faces the decision to either move to a larger home or learn to make choices and live within the limits of their space. By reducing clutter and increasing organization, everyone can learn to honor and respect the space they have.";s:7:"summary";s:5308:"(ARA) - With the economy remaining uncertain, homeowners are tending to stay in place and upgrade their homes, rather than move up to something newer or larger. Just as economic conditions evolve, however, so does this housing trend. Simplifying and gaining control are now the hot incarnations of the "staying put" trend.
Organizational design expert, TV and radio personality, and author of numerous New York Times bestsellers, Peter Walsh hosts "Extreme Clutter" on the Oprah Winfrey Network and has starred on TLC's "Clean Sweep." Walsh offers some advice on how do-it-yourselfers can simplify home improvement, and gain control of their home environment, room by room:
Coping in the kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of the home, where you spend time as a family, prepare meals and entertain guests. All that activity and use can make it difficult to stay organized in the kitchen, but doing so can save you time and money.
* Maximize cupboard space with easy-to-install sliding racks. These racks make it easy and fast to find items, even in the deepest cupboards.
* Keep cooking utensils and flatware neat and easily accessible with a compartmentalized drawer organizer. You can find them in kitchen and home design stores.
* If you store often-used spices in a cupboard, it's easy to lose track of what's in there. You don't have to give up your cabinet convenience. Just put your most-used spices in a small baking sheet (you can even buy a disposable one) so that when you need something, you can slide the sheet out to make finding it easier.
* Retire your junk drawer - we all have one. It's the drawer where you deposit receipts, warranties, product manuals and other items. One way to clean up the paper portion of the mess is with an online organizational tool like MyLowe's on Lowes.com. The free online tool from home improvement retailer Lowe's allows you to keep track of purchases, warranties and manuals.
"I'm always trying to teach my fans the latest tips and techniques for organizing their homes and simplifying their lives, especially when families are staying in their homes longer in this uncertain economy," Walsh says. "Keeping track of everything in our homes is now so easy with MyLowe's, the newest and best way to take home maintenance and planning to a whole new level."
Cutting closet clutter
Whether you have a spacious walk-in closet or a modest single-bar one, keeping your bedroom closet organized can be a challenge. But an organized closet means speedier wardrobe changes and a more harmonious environment.
* "We wear 20 percent of our clothes 80 percent of the time," Walsh says. Declutter your closet by getting rid of that 80 percent you don't wear. At the start of the season, turn all your hangers so that they face back to front. When you take something out and wear it, rehang it the correct way. At the end of the season you'll be able to see which items you haven't worn. Those are the ones you can probably live without.
* Reclaim vertical space. Look for creative ways to use the walls, backs of doors and other vertical spaces in your closet. Modular home organization systems can solve most storage challenges.
Taming the toy room
Children outgrow toys almost as quickly as clothes. It's important to regularly sort toys with your children to decide what to discard, what to pass on and what to keep.
* Involve kids in deciding what should stay or go. Arrange toys in piles by type of toy, age appropriateness or length of time the child has had the toy. This will help your kids see the toys as distinct groups and make the task more manageable.
* Bring in space-maximizing organizational products like colorful cubbies with canvas bins or decorative shelving units. MyLowe's makes it easy to find storage products that will fit in your space. Simply enter your room dimensions and the site helps identify solutions that will fit your needs.
Advice for every room
Getting organized is great, but staying organized is even more important. Rather than having to tackle organization tasks in a daunting mass once or twice a year, take steps to stay organized throughout the year. A little organization today means fewer headaches tomorrow.
Keep track of your home improvement and decorating purchases, like the paint colors you use and the creative choices you make with MyLowe's. You can create a home profile and sort information by room, assign products and wish lists to each room, track purchases, store product manuals/warranties and more.
Organization issues stem from the stuff you have, and not just from the space you have. Anyone struggling with clutter faces the decision to either move to a larger home or learn to make choices and live within the limits of their space. By reducing clutter and increasing organization, everyone can learn to honor and respect the space they have.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1322715600;}i:49;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:30:"Top home decor trends for 2012";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8053211113";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"12/5/2011";s:11:"description";s:4642:"(ARA) - From warm woods and creative colors to memorable murals and tailored textures, interior designers and industry experts predict 2012 will offer a multitude of options for those interested in giving their homes a fresh look. Even better for today's cost-conscious consumers is that many of the trends are easy and inexpensive.
The facts about furniture
According to Emmy Award-winning home design expert, author and TV/radio personality Christopher Lowell, upholstered furniture coverings are being driven more by texture and less by prints. Yesterday's bulky, stationary pit sofa will be replaced by lower backs and seats along with smaller "footprint" pieces clustered into conversation groups for more flexibility and ease of interaction. Stacy Garcia of Stacy Garcia Design Studio sees a movement of woods from very dark mahogany and espresso to lighter and mid-toned woods, with raw, natural walnut, cherry and white oak being especially prevalent.
Make a statement
For homeowners interested in adding life and personality to a bedroom, living room, family room or office, a decorative wall mural is a quick, cost-effective way to go, explains Todd Imholte, president of Murals Your Way, whose products have been featured on the TODAY show, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Divine Design, Man Caves and Moving Up. With 25 mural categories including Disney, famous artwork, cities and cityscapes, nature, and sports, as well as the ability to create murals from favorite photos, the choices are virtually unlimited. The company also recently launched a repositionable wallpaper line.
The right touch
According to Lori Dennis, interior designer, author and upcoming star of HGTV's new show The Real Designing Women, next year's textures and fabrics will include iridescent metallic woven within fabric; strong patterns and bold prints; modern floral; tailored woven fabrics like tweed, herringbone, plaid and houndstooth; velvet/velour, sumptuous dupioni silk, and faux fur. Natural fibers such as bamboo, jute, eucalyptus, cotton, silk, wool and cork will remain popular, adds DeAnna Radaj of Bante Design LLC.
A splash of color
Deborah Wecselman of DWD Inc. suggests starting with neutral hues of taupe, beige, cream, grey, black and white, and then adding unexpected pops of color with bold accessories from bright yellow paintings to royal blue vases. Dennis echoes this vibrant color spectrum, with rich jewel tones like emerald, amethyst, sapphire, ruby, garnet and citrine along with deep teal, fuchsia, honeysuckle, coffee and gold.
Light up your life
According to Bradburn design team manager Martin Lucki, lighting options will include linen shades with clean tailored lines and a play toward texture. Lamp bodies will be made of carved reclaimed woods deftly finished in soft, neutral tones that showcase the natural wood grain. Beverly Hills designer Christopher Grubb of Arch-Interiors Design Group, who considers decorative lighting "the piece of jewelry in a room," recommends architectural sconces for applying makeup or shaving to avoid the shadows cast by overhead lighting.
Please tread on me
Kitchen designer/blogger Susan Serra sees a renewed interest in woven or knotted textures on rugs with "back to basics" motifs that harken back to simpler times. These rugs are easy and cheerful to live with, make a design statement, and serve as interesting foundations for rooms with upholstered or casework furnishings most often seen in neutral colors. Lowell also sees a trend toward investment area rugs on tiled floors or those resurfaced with wood or faux wood veneers for better wear and tear and a greater perceived home value.
Decorating on a dime
According to artist/designer/author Pablo Solomon, people will continue to look for unique, cost-effective ways to improve their homes. They'll buy and restore secondhand furniture, swap artwork and accessories with friends, and use yard sale proceeds to purchase new items for their homes. Consignment stores and estate sales will be hot in 2012, adds best-selling author and home design expert Lauri Ward of Redecorate.com, with people discovering the benefits of buying older, distressed pieces that are well made and affordable. Chairs and sofas that can be reupholstered or slipcovered, and cabinets for storage, will be sought for their quality as well as the aesthetic interest they add to modern rooms.";s:7:"summary";s:4642:"(ARA) - From warm woods and creative colors to memorable murals and tailored textures, interior designers and industry experts predict 2012 will offer a multitude of options for those interested in giving their homes a fresh look. Even better for today's cost-conscious consumers is that many of the trends are easy and inexpensive.
The facts about furniture
According to Emmy Award-winning home design expert, author and TV/radio personality Christopher Lowell, upholstered furniture coverings are being driven more by texture and less by prints. Yesterday's bulky, stationary pit sofa will be replaced by lower backs and seats along with smaller "footprint" pieces clustered into conversation groups for more flexibility and ease of interaction. Stacy Garcia of Stacy Garcia Design Studio sees a movement of woods from very dark mahogany and espresso to lighter and mid-toned woods, with raw, natural walnut, cherry and white oak being especially prevalent.
Make a statement
For homeowners interested in adding life and personality to a bedroom, living room, family room or office, a decorative wall mural is a quick, cost-effective way to go, explains Todd Imholte, president of Murals Your Way, whose products have been featured on the TODAY show, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Divine Design, Man Caves and Moving Up. With 25 mural categories including Disney, famous artwork, cities and cityscapes, nature, and sports, as well as the ability to create murals from favorite photos, the choices are virtually unlimited. The company also recently launched a repositionable wallpaper line.
The right touch
According to Lori Dennis, interior designer, author and upcoming star of HGTV's new show The Real Designing Women, next year's textures and fabrics will include iridescent metallic woven within fabric; strong patterns and bold prints; modern floral; tailored woven fabrics like tweed, herringbone, plaid and houndstooth; velvet/velour, sumptuous dupioni silk, and faux fur. Natural fibers such as bamboo, jute, eucalyptus, cotton, silk, wool and cork will remain popular, adds DeAnna Radaj of Bante Design LLC.
A splash of color
Deborah Wecselman of DWD Inc. suggests starting with neutral hues of taupe, beige, cream, grey, black and white, and then adding unexpected pops of color with bold accessories from bright yellow paintings to royal blue vases. Dennis echoes this vibrant color spectrum, with rich jewel tones like emerald, amethyst, sapphire, ruby, garnet and citrine along with deep teal, fuchsia, honeysuckle, coffee and gold.
Light up your life
According to Bradburn design team manager Martin Lucki, lighting options will include linen shades with clean tailored lines and a play toward texture. Lamp bodies will be made of carved reclaimed woods deftly finished in soft, neutral tones that showcase the natural wood grain. Beverly Hills designer Christopher Grubb of Arch-Interiors Design Group, who considers decorative lighting "the piece of jewelry in a room," recommends architectural sconces for applying makeup or shaving to avoid the shadows cast by overhead lighting.
Please tread on me
Kitchen designer/blogger Susan Serra sees a renewed interest in woven or knotted textures on rugs with "back to basics" motifs that harken back to simpler times. These rugs are easy and cheerful to live with, make a design statement, and serve as interesting foundations for rooms with upholstered or casework furnishings most often seen in neutral colors. Lowell also sees a trend toward investment area rugs on tiled floors or those resurfaced with wood or faux wood veneers for better wear and tear and a greater perceived home value.
Decorating on a dime
According to artist/designer/author Pablo Solomon, people will continue to look for unique, cost-effective ways to improve their homes. They'll buy and restore secondhand furniture, swap artwork and accessories with friends, and use yard sale proceeds to purchase new items for their homes. Consignment stores and estate sales will be hot in 2012, adds best-selling author and home design expert Lauri Ward of Redecorate.com, with people discovering the benefits of buying older, distressed pieces that are well made and affordable. Chairs and sofas that can be reupholstered or slipcovered, and cabinets for storage, will be sought for their quality as well as the aesthetic interest they add to modern rooms.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1323061200;}i:50;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:56:"How the right home updates help seniors age well at home";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8058530101";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"10/11/2011";s:11:"description";s:4118:"(ARA) - Whether you are a senior yourself, or have a loved one who is older, living independently in the home is a priority. With the right precautions and a few necessary safety modifications, many seniors can continue to thrive in their own homes.
The room that poses the most danger to seniors is the bathroom. The potential for slips and falls is greater in this part of the home - 75 percent of fall injuries occur in the bathroom -- making it a good place to focus your renovation energy. Have you considered updating these parts of the bathroom?
Flooring: Hard floors are a hazard because even a small amount of moisture can make them very slick. Many people choose to install carpet because it does not lift or move like rugs can, plus it is warmer to walk on and softer if there is a fall.
Bathtub: Walk-in baths and showers like the ones from Premier Care In Bathing are great for seniors who want to take baths or showers but don't want to risk slipping and falling when stepping over the side of a tub or entering the shower. Look for features like a walk-in door, a powered bath lift, soothing hydrovescent therapy and easy-to-turn faucets.
Higher toilet: These types of toilets sit higher off the floor so that users don't have to bend their knees as much to get up and down.
Good lighting: To help seniors see better, it's important to have well-lit rooms and walkways so that it's easy to get around all areas of the house, including the bathroom.
Now that you have a good idea of what types of things should be replaced to help keep seniors safe, it's time to find the right company who can make the renovation process simple. It's easy to get lost in the sea of options available, so here are some tips to help you find the right one for you.
Tip 1: Good reputation
Reputation means everything when picking out a company that specializes in bathroom updates for seniors. How long has the company been in business? What is their reputation? Can they provide you with references you can contact?
Tip 2: Quality products
A good bathroom renovation is an investment, and that's why you want a product that works well and is long lasting. After going through a rigorous testing process, Premier Care walk-in baths and easy-access showers were commended as being easier to use and more accessible for people with arthritis by the Arthritis Foundation. These are the first baths and showers to ever receive this prestigious commendation. The company is also recognized as the official specialty bathing partner for AMVETS, the non-profit organization for American Veterans.
Tip 3: Free estimate
Avoid any company who will not send you educational materials such as brochures to review prior to purchase. Also avoid any company who will not come to your home to give you a free estimate on the cost of the renovation. An accurate cost estimate is impossible without seeing a bathroom in person. Premier Care always offers free in home consultations so you can ask questions, get a personalized estimate and a recommendation on the walk in-bath or shower that is perfect for you.
Tip 4: Specialized contractors
When updating a bathroom, it's wise to choose a company that does it all. If they subcontract the work out, you may not get someone who has the necessary insight specifically needed for senior home design. Look for companies that do it all, from providing the best products to complete installation and renovation. Remember the work shouldn't take too long either. Quality companies can do the work within a day or two and will work around your schedule.
With a few home improvements and modifications, seniors can stay safe at home and live independently for many years. For more information about walk-in baths, showers or ADA compliant sinks and toilets call (800) 313-1694 or visit premiercareonline.com.";s:7:"summary";s:4118:"(ARA) - Whether you are a senior yourself, or have a loved one who is older, living independently in the home is a priority. With the right precautions and a few necessary safety modifications, many seniors can continue to thrive in their own homes.
The room that poses the most danger to seniors is the bathroom. The potential for slips and falls is greater in this part of the home - 75 percent of fall injuries occur in the bathroom -- making it a good place to focus your renovation energy. Have you considered updating these parts of the bathroom?
Flooring: Hard floors are a hazard because even a small amount of moisture can make them very slick. Many people choose to install carpet because it does not lift or move like rugs can, plus it is warmer to walk on and softer if there is a fall.
Bathtub: Walk-in baths and showers like the ones from Premier Care In Bathing are great for seniors who want to take baths or showers but don't want to risk slipping and falling when stepping over the side of a tub or entering the shower. Look for features like a walk-in door, a powered bath lift, soothing hydrovescent therapy and easy-to-turn faucets.
Higher toilet: These types of toilets sit higher off the floor so that users don't have to bend their knees as much to get up and down.
Good lighting: To help seniors see better, it's important to have well-lit rooms and walkways so that it's easy to get around all areas of the house, including the bathroom.
Now that you have a good idea of what types of things should be replaced to help keep seniors safe, it's time to find the right company who can make the renovation process simple. It's easy to get lost in the sea of options available, so here are some tips to help you find the right one for you.
Tip 1: Good reputation
Reputation means everything when picking out a company that specializes in bathroom updates for seniors. How long has the company been in business? What is their reputation? Can they provide you with references you can contact?
Tip 2: Quality products
A good bathroom renovation is an investment, and that's why you want a product that works well and is long lasting. After going through a rigorous testing process, Premier Care walk-in baths and easy-access showers were commended as being easier to use and more accessible for people with arthritis by the Arthritis Foundation. These are the first baths and showers to ever receive this prestigious commendation. The company is also recognized as the official specialty bathing partner for AMVETS, the non-profit organization for American Veterans.
Tip 3: Free estimate
Avoid any company who will not send you educational materials such as brochures to review prior to purchase. Also avoid any company who will not come to your home to give you a free estimate on the cost of the renovation. An accurate cost estimate is impossible without seeing a bathroom in person. Premier Care always offers free in home consultations so you can ask questions, get a personalized estimate and a recommendation on the walk in-bath or shower that is perfect for you.
Tip 4: Specialized contractors
When updating a bathroom, it's wise to choose a company that does it all. If they subcontract the work out, you may not get someone who has the necessary insight specifically needed for senior home design. Look for companies that do it all, from providing the best products to complete installation and renovation. Remember the work shouldn't take too long either. Quality companies can do the work within a day or two and will work around your schedule.
With a few home improvements and modifications, seniors can stay safe at home and live independently for many years. For more information about walk-in baths, showers or ADA compliant sinks and toilets call (800) 313-1694 or visit premiercareonline.com.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1318305600;}i:51;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:42:"Smart ways to use credit when redecorating";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8055042936";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"11/30/2011";s:11:"description";s:2961:"(ARA) - When your redecorating project is done, you want everyone who sees it to think it looks like a million bucks. But woe to your wallet - and possibly your credit - if you overspend to achieve that look.
Credit can be a good tool to help you fulfill your decorating dreams, provided that you use it wisely. The last thing you want is to rack up redecorating debt that outlives the stylishness of your room's new look.
Before you give your bank card a workout, or sign up for a new credit card with your local home improvement store, take these credit-conscious steps:
1. Assess your current credit status.
Whenever you're considering a significant credit expenditure - like financing a remodel - it's important to understand your credit and how your spending might impact it. Websites like freecreditscore.com allow you to see your credit score, and provide information on how it's calculated, what factors affect it and even when is the best time to apply for new credit. Understanding your credit could mean the difference between using credit wisely to fund your redecorating project, or opting to wait until your credit situation improves before you incur new debt.
2. Estimate the cost of your project.
Spending without a plan is one of the surest ways to overspend, especially when it's a home improvement project. In order to create a plan, you need to know the likely cost of your redecorating project. Online cost estimators can help you get an idea of how much you'll need to fund your redecorating dreams. You'll need to consider all aspects of your project, from paint and carpeting to curtains and accessories in order to get the most accurate cost estimate.
3. Determine what you can do yourself.
If you can do some of the home improvement work yourself, you'll not only save some money, you'll get the added bonus of pride in doing it yourself. Be honest with yourself and think about which tasks you're skilled enough to tackle (painting, hanging curtains) and which ones you'll need to leave to a professional (laying carpet or placing tile).
4. Establish a budget
Once you have a cost estimate, and know where you can find DIY savings, you'll be able to establish a budget for your remodeling project. To prevent overspending, pad your budget as much as 10 percent to cover cost overruns. When your budget is set, you're ready to begin. Keep a running log of all expenditures and refer to your budget frequently to ensure your project is staying on track and within costs.
Redecorating can be a fun, rewarding home improvement project. With advanced planning and careful consideration of your credit, you can use credit wisely to help make your vision a reality.";s:7:"summary";s:2961:"(ARA) - When your redecorating project is done, you want everyone who sees it to think it looks like a million bucks. But woe to your wallet - and possibly your credit - if you overspend to achieve that look.
Credit can be a good tool to help you fulfill your decorating dreams, provided that you use it wisely. The last thing you want is to rack up redecorating debt that outlives the stylishness of your room's new look.
Before you give your bank card a workout, or sign up for a new credit card with your local home improvement store, take these credit-conscious steps:
1. Assess your current credit status.
Whenever you're considering a significant credit expenditure - like financing a remodel - it's important to understand your credit and how your spending might impact it. Websites like freecreditscore.com allow you to see your credit score, and provide information on how it's calculated, what factors affect it and even when is the best time to apply for new credit. Understanding your credit could mean the difference between using credit wisely to fund your redecorating project, or opting to wait until your credit situation improves before you incur new debt.
2. Estimate the cost of your project.
Spending without a plan is one of the surest ways to overspend, especially when it's a home improvement project. In order to create a plan, you need to know the likely cost of your redecorating project. Online cost estimators can help you get an idea of how much you'll need to fund your redecorating dreams. You'll need to consider all aspects of your project, from paint and carpeting to curtains and accessories in order to get the most accurate cost estimate.
3. Determine what you can do yourself.
If you can do some of the home improvement work yourself, you'll not only save some money, you'll get the added bonus of pride in doing it yourself. Be honest with yourself and think about which tasks you're skilled enough to tackle (painting, hanging curtains) and which ones you'll need to leave to a professional (laying carpet or placing tile).
4. Establish a budget
Once you have a cost estimate, and know where you can find DIY savings, you'll be able to establish a budget for your remodeling project. To prevent overspending, pad your budget as much as 10 percent to cover cost overruns. When your budget is set, you're ready to begin. Keep a running log of all expenditures and refer to your budget frequently to ensure your project is staying on track and within costs.
Redecorating can be a fun, rewarding home improvement project. With advanced planning and careful consideration of your credit, you can use credit wisely to help make your vision a reality.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1322629200;}i:52;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:42:"Flooring experts look ahead to what's next";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8052770303";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"11/1/2011";s:11:"description";s:2623:"A hot topic for hundreds of experts gathered at the recent 2011 Remodeling Show in Chicago was trends in wood flooring. Now in its 20th year, the show is the premier event in the nation for remodelers to look to what lies ahead in their industry.
Wood floors remain a popular choice for interior designers, contractors, remodelers and do-it-yourselfers interested in increasing a home's appeal. One reason is the flexibility of wood floors - they work well in either modern or traditional decorating styles.
Installing wood floors can also provide a strong return on investment. Houses with wood floors sell faster and for a higher price than others, according to a 2010 national survey of real estate agents by the National Wood Flooring Association. In today's hyper-competitive housing market, sellers need every possible advantage.
Some people shy away from wood floors due to misconceptions about maintenance, but new technologies have made it very simple to care for wood floors. Most require little more than sweeping and/or vacuuming and occasional application of an appropriate professional cleaning product.
Lumber Liquidators - North America's largest specialty retailer of hardwood flooring - drew steady traffic to its exhibit at the Remodeling Show by discussing a number of flooring trends:
Splashes of color
For more eclectic tastes, the trend for hardwood floors is diverging from traditional earth tones to grays, radiant reds and bright blues. Some new finishes even include a base that glimmers in the light.
Distressed is best
Consumers are interested in distressed looks found in reclaimed wood or hand-scraped finishes. This trend stems from the ongoing popularity of vintage looks in many categories.
Not just for pandas
Bamboo is popular for its sustainability and contemporary look. New twists on bamboo floors - wire-brush finishes and grained stamping, for example - are extending its reach into homes with more traditional decors.
Wide planks
Popular plank sizes are being doubled and even tripled in width to between 5 and 7 inches. Preferences are often determined by the size of a home. Smaller homes can appear even smaller if planks are too wide.
Border patrol
Mixing in a different color or finish of hardwood floors as a border achieves creative compartmentalization of open spaces. This can be used effectively, for example, to separate a dining area from a living area in a loft-style condominium.";s:7:"summary";s:2623:"A hot topic for hundreds of experts gathered at the recent 2011 Remodeling Show in Chicago was trends in wood flooring. Now in its 20th year, the show is the premier event in the nation for remodelers to look to what lies ahead in their industry.
Wood floors remain a popular choice for interior designers, contractors, remodelers and do-it-yourselfers interested in increasing a home's appeal. One reason is the flexibility of wood floors - they work well in either modern or traditional decorating styles.
Installing wood floors can also provide a strong return on investment. Houses with wood floors sell faster and for a higher price than others, according to a 2010 national survey of real estate agents by the National Wood Flooring Association. In today's hyper-competitive housing market, sellers need every possible advantage.
Some people shy away from wood floors due to misconceptions about maintenance, but new technologies have made it very simple to care for wood floors. Most require little more than sweeping and/or vacuuming and occasional application of an appropriate professional cleaning product.
Lumber Liquidators - North America's largest specialty retailer of hardwood flooring - drew steady traffic to its exhibit at the Remodeling Show by discussing a number of flooring trends:
Splashes of color
For more eclectic tastes, the trend for hardwood floors is diverging from traditional earth tones to grays, radiant reds and bright blues. Some new finishes even include a base that glimmers in the light.
Distressed is best
Consumers are interested in distressed looks found in reclaimed wood or hand-scraped finishes. This trend stems from the ongoing popularity of vintage looks in many categories.
Not just for pandas
Bamboo is popular for its sustainability and contemporary look. New twists on bamboo floors - wire-brush finishes and grained stamping, for example - are extending its reach into homes with more traditional decors.
Wide planks
Popular plank sizes are being doubled and even tripled in width to between 5 and 7 inches. Preferences are often determined by the size of a home. Smaller homes can appear even smaller if planks are too wide.
Border patrol
Mixing in a different color or finish of hardwood floors as a border achieves creative compartmentalization of open spaces. This can be used effectively, for example, to separate a dining area from a living area in a loft-style condominium.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1320120000;}i:53;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:58:"Three projects to turn home 'blahs' into 'oohs' and 'ahhs'";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8053834360";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"11/23/2011";s:11:"description";s:2850:"(ARA) - As the cool winter months bring us indoors, is your home feeling warm and inviting - or giving you a case of cabin fever? If it's the latter, don't fret. There are many simple and inexpensive updates you can complete to give your home a quick pick-me-up, allowing you to enjoy every minute spent inside.
Terrific table and chairs
The kitchen table is the hub of the home - where we dine as a family, do crafts, homework, play cards and board games. So it's important to make this everyday staple a welcoming area for you, your family and friends. But is your wood tabletop looking drab or stained? Or is your metal surface chipped? No matter what wear and tear you may have inflicted on your table - you can easily update it with a quick coat of spray paint.
Directions: Remove any seat cushions from the chairs and thoroughly clean all table and chair surfaces. Once dry, spray all surfaces with your favorite color of Krylon Dual Paint + Primer spray paint. Since Dual is both a paint and a primer, you can complete your project in one simple step, and half the time. Once you've sprayed all areas and the surfaces are dry, you can re-attach your seat cushions, or create a new look with updated fabric and enjoy your refreshed kitchen activity center.
Focal point finishes
Lighting fixtures can increase the ambiance to any room - but replacing them can cost hundreds of dollars. With a little elbow grease, $20 and less than two hours, you can update your existing ones with a more attractive - and popular - finish.
Directions: Cover your work area with newspaper and disassemble the fixture. Clean the pieces and tape off areas that don't need to be painted. Following the instructions on the label, apply aerosol indoor/outdoor primer followed by the new paint in your favorite color and finish. Once dry, remove the tape and reassemble your impressively updated focal point.
Cover the smallest details
Are you sick of staring at dull, dirty or chipped register covers or light switch plates around your home? A simple paint update can give any room an instant pick-me-up.
Directions: Remove register covers or light switch plates and place them on newspaper. Sand the surface lightly and wipe clean. Clean all pieces to remove any built up dust and grime. Following instructions on the label and apply a number of light coats of aerosol primer, followed by a few coats of gloss or metallic spray paint. Once dry, reinstall and enjoy.
With just a few simple home projects, your space can feel fresh and new in no time at all. For more information on Krylon products, visit www.krylon.com or projectsinacan.com.";s:7:"summary";s:2850:"(ARA) - As the cool winter months bring us indoors, is your home feeling warm and inviting - or giving you a case of cabin fever? If it's the latter, don't fret. There are many simple and inexpensive updates you can complete to give your home a quick pick-me-up, allowing you to enjoy every minute spent inside.
Terrific table and chairs
The kitchen table is the hub of the home - where we dine as a family, do crafts, homework, play cards and board games. So it's important to make this everyday staple a welcoming area for you, your family and friends. But is your wood tabletop looking drab or stained? Or is your metal surface chipped? No matter what wear and tear you may have inflicted on your table - you can easily update it with a quick coat of spray paint.
Directions: Remove any seat cushions from the chairs and thoroughly clean all table and chair surfaces. Once dry, spray all surfaces with your favorite color of Krylon Dual Paint + Primer spray paint. Since Dual is both a paint and a primer, you can complete your project in one simple step, and half the time. Once you've sprayed all areas and the surfaces are dry, you can re-attach your seat cushions, or create a new look with updated fabric and enjoy your refreshed kitchen activity center.
Focal point finishes
Lighting fixtures can increase the ambiance to any room - but replacing them can cost hundreds of dollars. With a little elbow grease, $20 and less than two hours, you can update your existing ones with a more attractive - and popular - finish.
Directions: Cover your work area with newspaper and disassemble the fixture. Clean the pieces and tape off areas that don't need to be painted. Following the instructions on the label, apply aerosol indoor/outdoor primer followed by the new paint in your favorite color and finish. Once dry, remove the tape and reassemble your impressively updated focal point.
Cover the smallest details
Are you sick of staring at dull, dirty or chipped register covers or light switch plates around your home? A simple paint update can give any room an instant pick-me-up.
Directions: Remove register covers or light switch plates and place them on newspaper. Sand the surface lightly and wipe clean. Clean all pieces to remove any built up dust and grime. Following instructions on the label and apply a number of light coats of aerosol primer, followed by a few coats of gloss or metallic spray paint. Once dry, reinstall and enjoy.
With just a few simple home projects, your space can feel fresh and new in no time at all. For more information on Krylon products, visit www.krylon.com or projectsinacan.com.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1322024400;}i:54;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:47:"Help protect your home from rodents this winter";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8056080202";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"12/6/2011";s:11:"description";s:2163:"(ARA) - The cold temperatures are settling in for the winter months, and if you're not careful, rodents can also settle into your home. Your house - especially your kitchen - offers everything rats and mice are looking for: food, water and warmth.
"Rodents are cute in the movies, not in the house," says Dr. Ron Harrison, technical services director at Orkin. "They are disease-transmitters and cause huge problems structurally. They've been known to cause fires by gnawing through electrical wires."
Rodents are a triple threat to homeowners because they can contaminate food, destroy property and spread serious diseases, including Hantavirus and LCMV, a viral disease that can cause inflammation of the brain (encephalitis). They can spread these diseases through their urine and feces or directly through bites. Fleas, lice and ticks can also be brought into your home by rodents and can carry infection to humans after feeding on an infected mouse or rat.
It's easier than you think for a rodent to get into your home. A rat can fit through an opening as small as a quarter, while a mouse can squeeze through a hole smaller than a dime. It's important to contact a pest professional because rats can sense traps and bait. They colonize in attics, burrows, under concrete and porches, in walls and other hard to reach places.
Harrison offers the following tips to help prevent rodents from getting into your home this winter:
* Seal all cracks and install weather strips at the bottom of exterior doors.
* Trim branches, plants and bushes that hang over the home.
* Plant vegetation at least 12 inches away from the home.
* Keep the interior of the home clean.
* Store all food, including pet food, and garbage properly in sealed containers.
* Do not leave dishes in the sink or pet food out overnight.
It's important to contact a licensed pest management professional such as Orkin for help in identifying and addressing rodent problems. For a free home inspection or for more information on rodents, call (800) 800-ORKIN or visit orkin.com.";s:7:"summary";s:2163:"(ARA) - The cold temperatures are settling in for the winter months, and if you're not careful, rodents can also settle into your home. Your house - especially your kitchen - offers everything rats and mice are looking for: food, water and warmth.
"Rodents are cute in the movies, not in the house," says Dr. Ron Harrison, technical services director at Orkin. "They are disease-transmitters and cause huge problems structurally. They've been known to cause fires by gnawing through electrical wires."
Rodents are a triple threat to homeowners because they can contaminate food, destroy property and spread serious diseases, including Hantavirus and LCMV, a viral disease that can cause inflammation of the brain (encephalitis). They can spread these diseases through their urine and feces or directly through bites. Fleas, lice and ticks can also be brought into your home by rodents and can carry infection to humans after feeding on an infected mouse or rat.
It's easier than you think for a rodent to get into your home. A rat can fit through an opening as small as a quarter, while a mouse can squeeze through a hole smaller than a dime. It's important to contact a pest professional because rats can sense traps and bait. They colonize in attics, burrows, under concrete and porches, in walls and other hard to reach places.
Harrison offers the following tips to help prevent rodents from getting into your home this winter:
* Seal all cracks and install weather strips at the bottom of exterior doors.
* Trim branches, plants and bushes that hang over the home.
* Plant vegetation at least 12 inches away from the home.
* Keep the interior of the home clean.
* Store all food, including pet food, and garbage properly in sealed containers.
* Do not leave dishes in the sink or pet food out overnight.
It's important to contact a licensed pest management professional such as Orkin for help in identifying and addressing rodent problems. For a free home inspection or for more information on rodents, call (800) 800-ORKIN or visit orkin.com.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1323147600;}i:55;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:56:"Save money with an 'enlightened' roof - and decorate too";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8062970110";s:7:"pubdate";s:8:"1/3/2012";s:11:"description";s:4016:"(ARA) - Enlightenment isn't just a state of mind - it can also be an important energy-saving state of being for your home's roof. By "enlightening" your roof, you can use less energy, save money, and dress up the interior of your home at the same time.
All roofs protect us, and the interiors of our homes, but they can do so much more. They can be the collection and distribution point for an inexhaustible supply of free natural light and energy.
A roof that uses Energy Star qualified venting skylights, for instance, admits healthful natural light while providing passive ventilation through the natural "chimney effect" of rising air. This is not an insignificant consideration especially in kitchens and baths that have higher moisture and humidity levels than other areas of the home.
Another kitchen- and bath-specific issue that skylights help address is the need for privacy. Many modern homes are built on small lots, in very close proximity to neighboring houses. "Light from windows is rarely enough, especially in places where lot sizes are small," says Jennifer Powers of design firm Scott-Ulmann.
Areas of the home where traditional skylights with blinds might not work - such as hallways, closets and small, interior baths - can still admit natural light through less expensive Sun Tunnel tubular skylights. And optional light kits turn these units into 24-hour sources of light. Low-profile flat glass models that blend unobtrusively with the roof, and domed models, all offer a fast, easy, less expensive way to transform a home with natural light.
In addition to light and ventilation from above, if you add an Energy Star-qualified solar water heating system your roof will work even harder for you. And, in addition to monthly power bill savings, these solar thermal systems qualify for tax credits and other savings that significantly reduce the payback time it takes to recover the initial cost.
Solar power attic fans are also a cost-effective roof addition that helps to reduce mechanical cooling costs while removing damaging moisture from the home.
In addition to the functional qualities these and other roof improvements offer, there are also aesthetic considerations.
Skylights offer room-changing drama and decorating flair while adding natural light from above. And skylight blinds are now available in colors and pattern choices to mix and match with room decor giving homeowners another interior design tool. Blinds not only dress up a room but also provide light control while increasing the energy efficiency and usefulness of skylights.
According to skylight manufacturer, Velux America, the addition of blinds can increase the overall energy efficiency of the units by 37 percent. They recommend closing the blinds on high heat/sun days in the summer to reduce potential solar heat gain and, on cold winter nights, closing them to provide an extra layer of thermal insulation to keep warm air indoors. Skylight blinds, as well as the units themselves, can be controlled manually or with a remote.
Modern, low profile skylights are unobtrusive and as dependable as vertical windows. Information about units with a 10-year no-leak installation warranty, plus an installer locator, is available at veluxusa.com. There's also a free mobile phone app there to help homeowners see how skylights and blinds would look in rooms in their own homes.
The Velux Skylight Planner App is available for iPhones, iPods, iPads and Android phones.
For government information on window and skylight energy efficiency visit energystar.gov, and for independent agency information visit nfrc.org or efficientwindows.org. For remodeling information visit nahb.org/remodel or greenhomeguide.org.";s:7:"summary";s:4016:"(ARA) - Enlightenment isn't just a state of mind - it can also be an important energy-saving state of being for your home's roof. By "enlightening" your roof, you can use less energy, save money, and dress up the interior of your home at the same time.
All roofs protect us, and the interiors of our homes, but they can do so much more. They can be the collection and distribution point for an inexhaustible supply of free natural light and energy.
A roof that uses Energy Star qualified venting skylights, for instance, admits healthful natural light while providing passive ventilation through the natural "chimney effect" of rising air. This is not an insignificant consideration especially in kitchens and baths that have higher moisture and humidity levels than other areas of the home.
Another kitchen- and bath-specific issue that skylights help address is the need for privacy. Many modern homes are built on small lots, in very close proximity to neighboring houses. "Light from windows is rarely enough, especially in places where lot sizes are small," says Jennifer Powers of design firm Scott-Ulmann.
Areas of the home where traditional skylights with blinds might not work - such as hallways, closets and small, interior baths - can still admit natural light through less expensive Sun Tunnel tubular skylights. And optional light kits turn these units into 24-hour sources of light. Low-profile flat glass models that blend unobtrusively with the roof, and domed models, all offer a fast, easy, less expensive way to transform a home with natural light.
In addition to light and ventilation from above, if you add an Energy Star-qualified solar water heating system your roof will work even harder for you. And, in addition to monthly power bill savings, these solar thermal systems qualify for tax credits and other savings that significantly reduce the payback time it takes to recover the initial cost.
Solar power attic fans are also a cost-effective roof addition that helps to reduce mechanical cooling costs while removing damaging moisture from the home.
In addition to the functional qualities these and other roof improvements offer, there are also aesthetic considerations.
Skylights offer room-changing drama and decorating flair while adding natural light from above. And skylight blinds are now available in colors and pattern choices to mix and match with room decor giving homeowners another interior design tool. Blinds not only dress up a room but also provide light control while increasing the energy efficiency and usefulness of skylights.
According to skylight manufacturer, Velux America, the addition of blinds can increase the overall energy efficiency of the units by 37 percent. They recommend closing the blinds on high heat/sun days in the summer to reduce potential solar heat gain and, on cold winter nights, closing them to provide an extra layer of thermal insulation to keep warm air indoors. Skylight blinds, as well as the units themselves, can be controlled manually or with a remote.
Modern, low profile skylights are unobtrusive and as dependable as vertical windows. Information about units with a 10-year no-leak installation warranty, plus an installer locator, is available at veluxusa.com. There's also a free mobile phone app there to help homeowners see how skylights and blinds would look in rooms in their own homes.
The Velux Skylight Planner App is available for iPhones, iPods, iPads and Android phones.
For government information on window and skylight energy efficiency visit energystar.gov, and for independent agency information visit nfrc.org or efficientwindows.org. For remodeling information visit nahb.org/remodel or greenhomeguide.org.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1325566800;}i:56;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:69:"Living large in smaller spaces: The shrinking, changing American home";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8053390404";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"12/28/2011";s:11:"description";s:3881:"(ARA) - The American home may be shrinking, but not the Great American Dream. Americans are still living large, just doing so in smaller spaces.
To some trend-watchers, the downscaling of the American home comes as good news. Architects, designers and social observers say our willingness to resize our floor space means Americans are rethinking the way we really live and how we use whatever space we do have. Home, they say, has become less about impressing others and more about making ourselves happy. And since we are mostly baby boomers - that tidal wave of Americans born between 1946 and 1964 - who have long been accustomed to getting what we want, happiness is often defined in terms of luxuries and personal amenities.
"Natural materials like American Hardwoods are redefining the word 'luxury,'" says Linda Jovanovich of the American Hardwood Information Center. "Hardwoods bring richness and warmth to even small rooms, whether it's used on the floors and walls, or crafted into built-ins. Custom hardwood furnishings like bookcases and cabinets make a home personal, yours alone, and isn't that the ultimate luxury?"
This new definition of luxury - top-quality, mostly natural materials, careful attention to architectural details like natural wood window frames and mouldings - is one that architect and author Sarah Susanka agrees with. And what Susanka thinks matters.
In 1998, her professional hunch launched what has become the "build-better-not-bigger" movement, when she published the first in her best-selling series of "The Not So Big House" books.
Her mantra is indeed, think smaller, and she also believes that "luxury comes from the materials we surround ourselves with. Beauty comes from natural materials. You can see where they come from - in the grain, the veining. The more natural the materials, like real hardwoods and granite, the more content you are. There's a quality you can't name, but you can feel it."
Gale Steves, author, editor and design industry consultant sums up a similar concept in her book about "Right-Sizing Your Home." According to Steves, "Right-sizing is about making the best use of the spaces you have for the way you live." She suggests these ways to best enjoy the shrinking and changing American home.
* "Create a room within a room," Steves advises. Her ideas begin at floor-level. Install hardwood flooring throughout to unify the spaces and make them look larger, then use area rugs to define separate areas. Lay hardwood on the diagonal to set off special architectural features. Create a "rug" under a dining table with an inset frame of contrasting hardwood. Or outline an entire room with two courses of contrasting hardwood.
* More ideas: Use a sectional sofa to delineate an intimate seating area within an open floor plan. And - of special interest to the many boomers who are eschewing retirement - find a standing wood-panel screen to create privacy or isolate a work space, say, in a bedroom office area.
* And don't forget to make it sustainable. Living green is a high priority for the anti-McMansion generation. As Susanka sees it, we should think of the 21st-century house as "a well-tailored suit: you use less material, but it fits you perfectly."
So while the size of the "average" U.S. home may be shrinking, remember that it's more about space that works and that satisfies the psyche in the process that defines the ultimate in luxury. Think custom kitchens with pro-quality appliances, posh home-spa baths, stone countertops and the beauty and warmth that only come with hardwood flooring, cabinetry and millwork.
For more information on American Hardwoods, visit www.HardwoodInfo.com.";s:7:"summary";s:3881:"(ARA) - The American home may be shrinking, but not the Great American Dream. Americans are still living large, just doing so in smaller spaces.
To some trend-watchers, the downscaling of the American home comes as good news. Architects, designers and social observers say our willingness to resize our floor space means Americans are rethinking the way we really live and how we use whatever space we do have. Home, they say, has become less about impressing others and more about making ourselves happy. And since we are mostly baby boomers - that tidal wave of Americans born between 1946 and 1964 - who have long been accustomed to getting what we want, happiness is often defined in terms of luxuries and personal amenities.
"Natural materials like American Hardwoods are redefining the word 'luxury,'" says Linda Jovanovich of the American Hardwood Information Center. "Hardwoods bring richness and warmth to even small rooms, whether it's used on the floors and walls, or crafted into built-ins. Custom hardwood furnishings like bookcases and cabinets make a home personal, yours alone, and isn't that the ultimate luxury?"
This new definition of luxury - top-quality, mostly natural materials, careful attention to architectural details like natural wood window frames and mouldings - is one that architect and author Sarah Susanka agrees with. And what Susanka thinks matters.
In 1998, her professional hunch launched what has become the "build-better-not-bigger" movement, when she published the first in her best-selling series of "The Not So Big House" books.
Her mantra is indeed, think smaller, and she also believes that "luxury comes from the materials we surround ourselves with. Beauty comes from natural materials. You can see where they come from - in the grain, the veining. The more natural the materials, like real hardwoods and granite, the more content you are. There's a quality you can't name, but you can feel it."
Gale Steves, author, editor and design industry consultant sums up a similar concept in her book about "Right-Sizing Your Home." According to Steves, "Right-sizing is about making the best use of the spaces you have for the way you live." She suggests these ways to best enjoy the shrinking and changing American home.
* "Create a room within a room," Steves advises. Her ideas begin at floor-level. Install hardwood flooring throughout to unify the spaces and make them look larger, then use area rugs to define separate areas. Lay hardwood on the diagonal to set off special architectural features. Create a "rug" under a dining table with an inset frame of contrasting hardwood. Or outline an entire room with two courses of contrasting hardwood.
* More ideas: Use a sectional sofa to delineate an intimate seating area within an open floor plan. And - of special interest to the many boomers who are eschewing retirement - find a standing wood-panel screen to create privacy or isolate a work space, say, in a bedroom office area.
* And don't forget to make it sustainable. Living green is a high priority for the anti-McMansion generation. As Susanka sees it, we should think of the 21st-century house as "a well-tailored suit: you use less material, but it fits you perfectly."
So while the size of the "average" U.S. home may be shrinking, remember that it's more about space that works and that satisfies the psyche in the process that defines the ultimate in luxury. Think custom kitchens with pro-quality appliances, posh home-spa baths, stone countertops and the beauty and warmth that only come with hardwood flooring, cabinetry and millwork.
For more information on American Hardwoods, visit www.HardwoodInfo.com.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1325048400;}i:57;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:49:"Items to put on your home winterization checklist";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8054470507";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"11/30/2011";s:11:"description";s:4522:"(ARA) - Preparing your home for cold weather is important for your comfort this winter as well as your utility bills. When you're making your winterization to-do list, be sure to include these simple updates that will help prevent costly damage to your home and provide you with the peace of mind that you're saving energy, water and money.
Give your furnace a tune-up: Schedule an appointment to have your furnace inspected and serviced. Annual maintenance by a professional will help ensure your furnace is in prime condition for the long winter and operating as efficiently as possible. Plan ahead and get a preseason check-up before HVAC crews get backed up during the busy winter months. In addition to a professional inspection, don't forget to inspect the furnace filters on a monthly basis. A dirty filter obstructs air flow in the home and reduces efficiency.
Check your insulation: Snuggling under a heavy blanket or layering on extra socks and sweaters may feel like a cozy way to watch your favorite holiday movie, but it could also be a sign that it's too cold in your house. You may need more insulation to keep that warm, conditioned air your furnace is cranking out in all the right spots.
A good place to start is the attic. All it takes is a quick peek at the floor of your attic to know if you need more insulation. If your attic floor is insulated, but the floor joists are still visible, then you probably don't have enough. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) reports that the recommended level of insulation for most attics is approximately 10 to 14 inches or an R-value of R-38, depending on insulation type. Check out the Energy Star website to find a chart indicating the recommended level of insulation per region.
Install energy-efficient windows: A significant amount of heat can escape through older, less efficient windows. Installing Energy Star-qualified windows can reduce heat loss and increase comfort during extreme weather. According to the DOE, some Energy Star-qualified windows feature more than three panes for increased efficiency and sound insulation. Take the time to research which type of window is the best fit for your climate before making a purchase, as different models are available to fit the needs of different performance zones.
Install a water-efficient showerhead: A warm shower during the winter doesn't have to be a guilty pleasure. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency WaterSense Program water-saving specifications for showerheads require a flow rate of no more than 2 gallons per minute (gpm).
As the 2011 WaterSense Manufacturer Partner of the Year, Delta Faucet Company strives to help people use water in smarter and more environmentally responsible ways. A 1.5 gpm Delta showerhead featuring H2Okinetic Technology uses up to 36 percent less water than the industry standard of 2.5 gpm.
"We understand how much people value their shower routine, so we worked hard to develop a technology that can make the showerhead water-efficient without sacrificing the user's experience," says Paul Patton, senior product development manager at Delta Faucet Company.
Patton says the H2OKinetic Technology employs fluid dynamics to produce larger droplets that retain heat longer and create a denser spray pattern. Together, these effects create a feeling of a drenching, luxurious shower while using less water. Using less hot water not only conserves Earth's most precious resource, but also helps manage utility costs by using less energy from the hot water heater.
Prevent plumbing freezes: Insulate the water lines that run along any of the exterior walls in your home so the water will be less likely to freeze and cause the pipes to burst. It's also a good idea to make sure your entire family knows where the main shut off valve is located and how to turn it off in the event that a pipe develops a leak or bursts.
Winter forecasts look grim with many meteorologists predicting harsher weather conditions compared to what we experienced in many regions across the U.S. last year. A few updates to the interior and exterior of your home can safeguard it from potential damage and keep you and your family comfortable throughout the season.";s:7:"summary";s:4522:"(ARA) - Preparing your home for cold weather is important for your comfort this winter as well as your utility bills. When you're making your winterization to-do list, be sure to include these simple updates that will help prevent costly damage to your home and provide you with the peace of mind that you're saving energy, water and money.
Give your furnace a tune-up: Schedule an appointment to have your furnace inspected and serviced. Annual maintenance by a professional will help ensure your furnace is in prime condition for the long winter and operating as efficiently as possible. Plan ahead and get a preseason check-up before HVAC crews get backed up during the busy winter months. In addition to a professional inspection, don't forget to inspect the furnace filters on a monthly basis. A dirty filter obstructs air flow in the home and reduces efficiency.
Check your insulation: Snuggling under a heavy blanket or layering on extra socks and sweaters may feel like a cozy way to watch your favorite holiday movie, but it could also be a sign that it's too cold in your house. You may need more insulation to keep that warm, conditioned air your furnace is cranking out in all the right spots.
A good place to start is the attic. All it takes is a quick peek at the floor of your attic to know if you need more insulation. If your attic floor is insulated, but the floor joists are still visible, then you probably don't have enough. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) reports that the recommended level of insulation for most attics is approximately 10 to 14 inches or an R-value of R-38, depending on insulation type. Check out the Energy Star website to find a chart indicating the recommended level of insulation per region.
Install energy-efficient windows: A significant amount of heat can escape through older, less efficient windows. Installing Energy Star-qualified windows can reduce heat loss and increase comfort during extreme weather. According to the DOE, some Energy Star-qualified windows feature more than three panes for increased efficiency and sound insulation. Take the time to research which type of window is the best fit for your climate before making a purchase, as different models are available to fit the needs of different performance zones.
Install a water-efficient showerhead: A warm shower during the winter doesn't have to be a guilty pleasure. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency WaterSense Program water-saving specifications for showerheads require a flow rate of no more than 2 gallons per minute (gpm).
As the 2011 WaterSense Manufacturer Partner of the Year, Delta Faucet Company strives to help people use water in smarter and more environmentally responsible ways. A 1.5 gpm Delta showerhead featuring H2Okinetic Technology uses up to 36 percent less water than the industry standard of 2.5 gpm.
"We understand how much people value their shower routine, so we worked hard to develop a technology that can make the showerhead water-efficient without sacrificing the user's experience," says Paul Patton, senior product development manager at Delta Faucet Company.
Patton says the H2OKinetic Technology employs fluid dynamics to produce larger droplets that retain heat longer and create a denser spray pattern. Together, these effects create a feeling of a drenching, luxurious shower while using less water. Using less hot water not only conserves Earth's most precious resource, but also helps manage utility costs by using less energy from the hot water heater.
Prevent plumbing freezes: Insulate the water lines that run along any of the exterior walls in your home so the water will be less likely to freeze and cause the pipes to burst. It's also a good idea to make sure your entire family knows where the main shut off valve is located and how to turn it off in the event that a pipe develops a leak or bursts.
Winter forecasts look grim with many meteorologists predicting harsher weather conditions compared to what we experienced in many regions across the U.S. last year. A few updates to the interior and exterior of your home can safeguard it from potential damage and keep you and your family comfortable throughout the season.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1322629200;}i:58;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:54:"How to protect your landscaping during the snow season";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8057830304";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"11/8/2011";s:11:"description";s:3433:"(ARA) - You work hard on your lawn and landscaping during the spring and summer. Now it's fall, and time to get ready for winter. You know the drill - move houseplants indoors, make sure your plants are well-watered before the ground freezes, clean up the beds and remove annuals, cut back perennials, put down mulch.
But when winter actually gets here, what can you do to keep your landscaping healthy and attractive when the wind is howling, the ground is frozen, and snow and ice blanket your lawn and garden?
While natural snowfall or windblown snow seldom harm plants, Jamie Hancock with the Kansas State Research and Extension service notes that damage can occur when snow is dumped on plants by snow plows or shovels as walks and pathways are cleared. Cleared snow is generally heavier because it's compacted, and that can mean damage to small branches and plants.
Another tip from the experts is to clear sidewalks with a deicing product that is friendly to your plants, such as one of the newer deicing products that contain magnesium chloride. A naturally occurring mineral, magnesium chloride melts ice in temperatures as low as minus 15 degrees Fahrenheit, and remains effective longer than many other ice melters, so it can keep walks safe even in extreme circumstances.
According to Jerry Poe, an expert in magnesium chloride and other salts, magnesium chloride is a superior ice melter and provides additional benefits to plants. Poe is director of research and development for North American Salt Company, which offers a pure magnesium chloride ice melter, Safe Step Extreme 8300. It is available at most hardware stores.
"Magnesium is a necessary nutrient, and magnesium chloride is used in agriculture - for example, in wheat farming - to provide necessary levels for complete plant nutrition," Poe says. "So using magnesium chloride deicers to clear your walks in winter protects your plants and helps to fertilize them year round."
And because magnesium chloride's low melting temperature helps minimize the number of freeze/thaw cycles, it is friendly to concrete - a great feature if your landscaping includes decorative walkways or pavers. "Freeze/thaw cycles are the cause of concrete damage," Poe says. "When ice melts, the resulting liquid works its way into cracks in the concrete. When the liquid refreezes, it expands and causes further cracking or spalling."
To further reduce the possibility of damage, Poe recommends removing the slush and brine that results from using an ice melt product before it has a chance to refreeze.
One final thought for those days when snow blankets your landscaping: Snow can be your friend. Snow on the ground helps protect roots by insulating them from extreme cold, according to the University of Vermont Extension service. And it's a self-regulating source of water; plants need water in the winter, and snow on the ground automatically provides moisture when there's a thaw, even if temperatures get barely above freezing.
So, for the homeowner, the bottom line is this: Don't throw heavy snow on delicate plants, and when you buy an ice melter, choose a product with magnesium chloride that can keep your walks clear while protecting your plants and landscaping.";s:7:"summary";s:3433:"(ARA) - You work hard on your lawn and landscaping during the spring and summer. Now it's fall, and time to get ready for winter. You know the drill - move houseplants indoors, make sure your plants are well-watered before the ground freezes, clean up the beds and remove annuals, cut back perennials, put down mulch.
But when winter actually gets here, what can you do to keep your landscaping healthy and attractive when the wind is howling, the ground is frozen, and snow and ice blanket your lawn and garden?
While natural snowfall or windblown snow seldom harm plants, Jamie Hancock with the Kansas State Research and Extension service notes that damage can occur when snow is dumped on plants by snow plows or shovels as walks and pathways are cleared. Cleared snow is generally heavier because it's compacted, and that can mean damage to small branches and plants.
Another tip from the experts is to clear sidewalks with a deicing product that is friendly to your plants, such as one of the newer deicing products that contain magnesium chloride. A naturally occurring mineral, magnesium chloride melts ice in temperatures as low as minus 15 degrees Fahrenheit, and remains effective longer than many other ice melters, so it can keep walks safe even in extreme circumstances.
According to Jerry Poe, an expert in magnesium chloride and other salts, magnesium chloride is a superior ice melter and provides additional benefits to plants. Poe is director of research and development for North American Salt Company, which offers a pure magnesium chloride ice melter, Safe Step Extreme 8300. It is available at most hardware stores.
"Magnesium is a necessary nutrient, and magnesium chloride is used in agriculture - for example, in wheat farming - to provide necessary levels for complete plant nutrition," Poe says. "So using magnesium chloride deicers to clear your walks in winter protects your plants and helps to fertilize them year round."
And because magnesium chloride's low melting temperature helps minimize the number of freeze/thaw cycles, it is friendly to concrete - a great feature if your landscaping includes decorative walkways or pavers. "Freeze/thaw cycles are the cause of concrete damage," Poe says. "When ice melts, the resulting liquid works its way into cracks in the concrete. When the liquid refreezes, it expands and causes further cracking or spalling."
To further reduce the possibility of damage, Poe recommends removing the slush and brine that results from using an ice melt product before it has a chance to refreeze.
One final thought for those days when snow blankets your landscaping: Snow can be your friend. Snow on the ground helps protect roots by insulating them from extreme cold, according to the University of Vermont Extension service. And it's a self-regulating source of water; plants need water in the winter, and snow on the ground automatically provides moisture when there's a thaw, even if temperatures get barely above freezing.
So, for the homeowner, the bottom line is this: Don't throw heavy snow on delicate plants, and when you buy an ice melter, choose a product with magnesium chloride that can keep your walks clear while protecting your plants and landscaping.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1320728400;}i:59;a:7:{s:5:"title";s:41:"Green tips for tackling fall lawn cleanup";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8061180101";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"10/7/2011";s:11:"description";s:2901:"(ARA) - Every fall, the wind picks up, the leaves fall to the ground and the grass gets a little browner. It's the time of year when the weather is unpredictable and storms can make even the neatest yards a mess.
Remington, a leading manufacturer of battery and electric power tools, has some tips to help make your fall cleanup greener and easier:
Clearing leaves from your yard can be a daunting task, but it's an important one to keep your yard alive and green come spring. Using an electric leaf blower or blower vacuum versus using a rake or a heavy gas blower can help reduce the effort. While electric leaf blowers are limited in mobility, they require less hassle.
If you find more than just leaves in your yard after a storm, you may consider doing most of the cleanup yourself using a chainsaw, such as the RM1415A Limb N Trim, a 14-inch chainsaw that's ideal for cleanup of fallen branches and logs less than 13 inches in diameter. Keep in mind there are many safety concerns to take into account when using a chainsaw to clean up the mess. Here are a few tips on how to use a chainsaw to help keep you safe this season:
* First, read the operator's manual and follow suggested guidelines to remove fallen trees.
* Ensure the saw's chain is properly tensioned before each use and all fasteners, controls and safety features are functioning properly.
* Make sure the bar and chain are always lubricated to prevent the saw from wearing out or cutting poorly. Check the bar and chain oil reservoir frequently to make sure it's full or it will ruin your chain.
* Start the saw while standing on the ground and always hold the handle securely.
* Clear debris and small tree limbs from the chainsaw's path, and beware of nails and other metal before cutting.
* Avoid saw "kickback" to prevent a serious chainsaw injury. Never let the tip of the bar come in contact with anything. Always reference the operator's manual for proper chain saw operation.
Here are a few other tips to prepare your yard for fall:
* Cut your grass short right before the season ends.
* Don't forget to water. Early in the morning is the best time in order to avoid evaporation and disease development.
* Fertilize in order to maintain root health and replenish the nutrients that were lost during the hot summer.
* Once the watering season is over, make sure to drain and store your garden hose and turn off the water supply to keep your pipes from freezing.
* If you use a battery-powered mower, make sure to remove the battery before putting it away. Also, store the battery on the charger to keep it from slowly draining over the winter, which can damage the battery over time.";s:5:"video";s:194:"";s:7:"summary";s:2901:"(ARA) - Every fall, the wind picks up, the leaves fall to the ground and the grass gets a little browner. It's the time of year when the weather is unpredictable and storms can make even the neatest yards a mess.
Remington, a leading manufacturer of battery and electric power tools, has some tips to help make your fall cleanup greener and easier:
Clearing leaves from your yard can be a daunting task, but it's an important one to keep your yard alive and green come spring. Using an electric leaf blower or blower vacuum versus using a rake or a heavy gas blower can help reduce the effort. While electric leaf blowers are limited in mobility, they require less hassle.
If you find more than just leaves in your yard after a storm, you may consider doing most of the cleanup yourself using a chainsaw, such as the RM1415A Limb N Trim, a 14-inch chainsaw that's ideal for cleanup of fallen branches and logs less than 13 inches in diameter. Keep in mind there are many safety concerns to take into account when using a chainsaw to clean up the mess. Here are a few tips on how to use a chainsaw to help keep you safe this season:
* First, read the operator's manual and follow suggested guidelines to remove fallen trees.
* Ensure the saw's chain is properly tensioned before each use and all fasteners, controls and safety features are functioning properly.
* Make sure the bar and chain are always lubricated to prevent the saw from wearing out or cutting poorly. Check the bar and chain oil reservoir frequently to make sure it's full or it will ruin your chain.
* Start the saw while standing on the ground and always hold the handle securely.
* Clear debris and small tree limbs from the chainsaw's path, and beware of nails and other metal before cutting.
* Avoid saw "kickback" to prevent a serious chainsaw injury. Never let the tip of the bar come in contact with anything. Always reference the operator's manual for proper chain saw operation.
Here are a few other tips to prepare your yard for fall:
* Cut your grass short right before the season ends.
* Don't forget to water. Early in the morning is the best time in order to avoid evaporation and disease development.
* Fertilize in order to maintain root health and replenish the nutrients that were lost during the hot summer.
* Once the watering season is over, make sure to drain and store your garden hose and turn off the water supply to keep your pipes from freezing.
* If you use a battery-powered mower, make sure to remove the battery before putting it away. Also, store the battery on the charger to keep it from slowly draining over the winter, which can damage the battery over time.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1317960000;}i:60;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:43:"Three green trends for 2012 home remodeling";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8054260303";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"11/22/2011";s:11:"description";s:3199:"(ARA) - For some homeowners, remodeling projects are regular occurrences to keep their homes looking fresh. Sometimes, that means smaller changes like a new coat of paint or changing a light fixture. Other times, more substantial changes are needed. Determining those changes can be a challenge, but looking at the potential return on investment is a great way to prioritize.
Bathroom remodeling offers a 68.7 percent return on investment, according to a National Association of Realtors survey. One way to add value to a bathroom remodel is to pick bathroom fixtures that are more efficient than what you currently have installed. Americans are going green in many areas of life, whether with more energy-efficient light bulbs, hybrid cars or by recycling more regularly. Bathroom fixtures are no different.
Here are three reasons why you should consider going green with your bathroom modeling project:
* Products may be outdated. Toilets made before 1994 use anywhere from 3.5 gallons to 8 gallons per flush (gpf), while new EPA WaterSense labeled high-efficiency toilets can work beautifully on a modest 1.28 gpf. Not sure of your toilet's vintage? Look at the underside of the tank lid - the date of manufacture is often stamped into the porcelain. In the shower, the typical showerhead installed in California homes built after 1994 uses as much as 2.5 gallons per minute. At that rate, your eight-minute shower consumes a whopping 20 gallons of water.
* Savings to be had. Compared to 3.5 gpf toilets, TOTO's Aquia One-Piece Dual Flush High-Efficiency Toilet has a flushing system that enables homeowners to select the level of water used each time the toilet is flushed - 1.6 gallons for bulk waste or .9 for liquid. The approach provides exceptional water savings paired with outstanding performance. A family of four can save more than $90 annually on their water bill, and $2,000 over the lifetime of the toilet.
If you replace a typical 2.5 gpm showerhead with a TOTO high-efficiency Trilogy Showerhead, you will experience the same luxurious shower, yet consume a responsible 14 gallons, saving 20 percent of the water used by older models.
Even something like a faucet can contribute to water savings. TOTO's Silas Widespread Lavatory Faucet is a WaterSense labeled lavatory faucet that consumes a responsible 1.5 gallons per minute without sacrificing an ounce of performance. Its design has a classic contemporary elegance with a graceful, curved spout.
* Be a trendy homeowner. A whopping 68 percent of builders surveyed by the National Association of Home Builders say that energy-saving technologies and features including low-E windows, energy-efficient appliances, and LED lighting will be common along with other green features like engineered wood products, and water-saving plumbing fixtures such as dual-flush toilets and low-flow faucets by 2015. Start now and you'll be ahead of the curve.";s:7:"summary";s:3199:"(ARA) - For some homeowners, remodeling projects are regular occurrences to keep their homes looking fresh. Sometimes, that means smaller changes like a new coat of paint or changing a light fixture. Other times, more substantial changes are needed. Determining those changes can be a challenge, but looking at the potential return on investment is a great way to prioritize.
Bathroom remodeling offers a 68.7 percent return on investment, according to a National Association of Realtors survey. One way to add value to a bathroom remodel is to pick bathroom fixtures that are more efficient than what you currently have installed. Americans are going green in many areas of life, whether with more energy-efficient light bulbs, hybrid cars or by recycling more regularly. Bathroom fixtures are no different.
Here are three reasons why you should consider going green with your bathroom modeling project:
* Products may be outdated. Toilets made before 1994 use anywhere from 3.5 gallons to 8 gallons per flush (gpf), while new EPA WaterSense labeled high-efficiency toilets can work beautifully on a modest 1.28 gpf. Not sure of your toilet's vintage? Look at the underside of the tank lid - the date of manufacture is often stamped into the porcelain. In the shower, the typical showerhead installed in California homes built after 1994 uses as much as 2.5 gallons per minute. At that rate, your eight-minute shower consumes a whopping 20 gallons of water.
* Savings to be had. Compared to 3.5 gpf toilets, TOTO's Aquia One-Piece Dual Flush High-Efficiency Toilet has a flushing system that enables homeowners to select the level of water used each time the toilet is flushed - 1.6 gallons for bulk waste or .9 for liquid. The approach provides exceptional water savings paired with outstanding performance. A family of four can save more than $90 annually on their water bill, and $2,000 over the lifetime of the toilet.
If you replace a typical 2.5 gpm showerhead with a TOTO high-efficiency Trilogy Showerhead, you will experience the same luxurious shower, yet consume a responsible 14 gallons, saving 20 percent of the water used by older models.
Even something like a faucet can contribute to water savings. TOTO's Silas Widespread Lavatory Faucet is a WaterSense labeled lavatory faucet that consumes a responsible 1.5 gallons per minute without sacrificing an ounce of performance. Its design has a classic contemporary elegance with a graceful, curved spout.
* Be a trendy homeowner. A whopping 68 percent of builders surveyed by the National Association of Home Builders say that energy-saving technologies and features including low-E windows, energy-efficient appliances, and LED lighting will be common along with other green features like engineered wood products, and water-saving plumbing fixtures such as dual-flush toilets and low-flow faucets by 2015. Start now and you'll be ahead of the curve.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1321938000;}i:61;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:44:"Simplify your life with gadgets for the home";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8054470607";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"12/15/2011";s:11:"description";s:3542:"(ARA) - Nowadays, our lives are more hectic than ever. But you can pare back your to-do list with some innovative products that make household tasks a little bit easier.
* Skip the morning visit to your neighborhood cafe and brew the perfect cup of coffee at home. Making a pot of coffee takes extra work - grinding beans, measuring grinds and water, brewing and eventually cleaning the pot - and there's often extra coffee that goes to waste. Automatic, single serve coffee machines make it easy to enjoy a fresh cup of coffee, tea or other warm beverage with very little effort.
* Universal remotes are no longer just for the home entertainment system. Newer remotes enable total control of the various electronics throughout your home. Ranging from simple to sophisticated, universal remotes can control your lighting, thermostat, security system, pool and more. Verve Living Systems, for example, offers a controller that provides you with the option of programming up to 10 combinations of controls for lighting and temperature, making it easier to save energy.
* Even in the bathroom, gadgets such as electronic toothbrushes and razors make grooming simple and efficient. Earlier this year, Delta Faucet launched Touch2O.xt Technology on bathroom faucets, which enables you to activate the flow of water with a simple tap anywhere on the spout or handle. The technology also features a sensing field around the entire faucet for entirely hands-free activation. The hands-free mode makes it easier to conserve water during quick tasks, such as brushing your teeth or washing your hands, because the faucet will automatically shut off when hands are removed from the sensing field.
"Our research and development team conducts extensive research during product development, examining ways in which people interact with their faucets," says Ali McKinney, product manager at Delta Faucet. "This technology provides a cleaner, more efficient way to work with water."
* Who says you need electronics to have a high-tech experience? Updates to the shower can be intimidating, but adding a handshower can provide greater functionality and an improved experience and doesn't have to be a hassle. The In2ition two-in-one shower, also from Delta Faucet, offers the ability to enjoy water from the showerhead, integrated handshower or both at once for water exactly where you want it and flexibility to accomplish other tasks, such as bathing children, washing pets or cleaning the shower. Plus, installing the In2ition is no more complicated than switching out a standard showerhead.
* Almost every personal device doubles as a camera these days, but who has wall space for all those framed photos? A digital picture frame makes it easier to keep the photos around your home up-to-date and saves the time and money you would spend ordering and printing new photos. Even more, you can upload hundreds of pictures and set the frame to rotate the images on a slideshow. The latest digital picture frames have a range of style options, memory and fun image-sharing features.
Whatever your need, there's likely a product, technology or application that can help turn even the most mundane everyday tasks into easy and enjoyable experiences.";s:7:"summary";s:3542:"(ARA) - Nowadays, our lives are more hectic than ever. But you can pare back your to-do list with some innovative products that make household tasks a little bit easier.
* Skip the morning visit to your neighborhood cafe and brew the perfect cup of coffee at home. Making a pot of coffee takes extra work - grinding beans, measuring grinds and water, brewing and eventually cleaning the pot - and there's often extra coffee that goes to waste. Automatic, single serve coffee machines make it easy to enjoy a fresh cup of coffee, tea or other warm beverage with very little effort.
* Universal remotes are no longer just for the home entertainment system. Newer remotes enable total control of the various electronics throughout your home. Ranging from simple to sophisticated, universal remotes can control your lighting, thermostat, security system, pool and more. Verve Living Systems, for example, offers a controller that provides you with the option of programming up to 10 combinations of controls for lighting and temperature, making it easier to save energy.
* Even in the bathroom, gadgets such as electronic toothbrushes and razors make grooming simple and efficient. Earlier this year, Delta Faucet launched Touch2O.xt Technology on bathroom faucets, which enables you to activate the flow of water with a simple tap anywhere on the spout or handle. The technology also features a sensing field around the entire faucet for entirely hands-free activation. The hands-free mode makes it easier to conserve water during quick tasks, such as brushing your teeth or washing your hands, because the faucet will automatically shut off when hands are removed from the sensing field.
"Our research and development team conducts extensive research during product development, examining ways in which people interact with their faucets," says Ali McKinney, product manager at Delta Faucet. "This technology provides a cleaner, more efficient way to work with water."
* Who says you need electronics to have a high-tech experience? Updates to the shower can be intimidating, but adding a handshower can provide greater functionality and an improved experience and doesn't have to be a hassle. The In2ition two-in-one shower, also from Delta Faucet, offers the ability to enjoy water from the showerhead, integrated handshower or both at once for water exactly where you want it and flexibility to accomplish other tasks, such as bathing children, washing pets or cleaning the shower. Plus, installing the In2ition is no more complicated than switching out a standard showerhead.
* Almost every personal device doubles as a camera these days, but who has wall space for all those framed photos? A digital picture frame makes it easier to keep the photos around your home up-to-date and saves the time and money you would spend ordering and printing new photos. Even more, you can upload hundreds of pictures and set the frame to rotate the images on a slideshow. The latest digital picture frames have a range of style options, memory and fun image-sharing features.
Whatever your need, there's likely a product, technology or application that can help turn even the most mundane everyday tasks into easy and enjoyable experiences.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1323925200;}i:62;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:46:"American Hardwoods offer a breath of fresh air";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8053390304";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"11/18/2011";s:11:"description";s:4586:"(ARA) - Flooring, cabinetry, and millwork made from American hardwoods are as much a part of the American Dream as a white picket fence. The beauty, architectural detail and overall inviting warmth they offer are often what make a house a home. So, it's no surprise that hardwoods are increasingly bringing the comforts of home to all types of settings, from schools and workspaces to health care facilities and performance venues.
But, there is more. According to the American Hardwood Information Center, (www.HardwoodInfo.com) hardwoods also help improve the air quality in the places you spend your time.
We've all seen those tiny particles floating around in a beam of sunlight. Those culprits are often the cause of many indoor allergies which affect nearly 40 million Americans. Did you know that to ease allergy symptoms, one of the first recommendations allergists make is to remove wall-to-wall carpeting in favor of solid floor surfaces, such as hardwoods?
Hardwood products offer help
"Allergists recognize that carpet is a huge collection net for dust and dust mites, live and dead insects and their waste products, mold and animal dander," says Dr. Dana V. Wallace, immediate past president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI). "Chemical treatments and professional steam cleaning will not remove all allergens, and are only effective for a short time. But all of these allergens can be reduced with hardwood flooring."
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), agrees. "We recommend hardwood floors," says spokesperson Angel Waldron. "They are easier to clean and do not harbor dust, dirt and allergens like carpeting." And to ease the suffering to a greater degree, Dr. Wallace suggests additional home considerations.
"The newest research shows that making one change in the home, like carpet removal, will reduce the allergen load, but it takes multiple interventions to reduce symptoms," Wallace says. "Other changes, like removing upholstered furniture, need to be made." And hardwood furniture, such as stools and desk chairs, offer a perfect solution.
But allergy issues also exist outside the home. The AAFA reports that allergies and asthma cause 40,000 people to miss school or work every day, resulting in $3 billion in lost productivity each year.
"Perhaps the increase in allergies and asthma over the past century has some relationship to moving away from hardwood flooring," says Wallace. "My school had hardwood flooring in the 1960s, and more recently, schools have been installing more carpeting. We need hard surfaces such as hardwood flooring, in public areas, to reduce allergen exposure."
Utkarsh Ghildyal, project manager at Renaissance 3 Architects feels that healthy and environmentally favorable hardwood floors are "more comfortable than concrete and are more easily maintained than carpet." Ghildyal says that, "we use hardwoods in our designs to express warmth and a sustainable aesthetic. There is a natural feeling to hardwood that is difficult to replicate."
The experts at Renaissance 3 Architects are not alone in their thinking. More and more designers are recognizing the limitless benefits of hardwood products, and are increasingly featuring them in schools, workspaces and health care facilities across the country.
But what about the finishes - won't they affect allergies?
The American Hardwood Information Center suggests you breathe deep, relax, but be knowledgeable. Reading product labels, specifically looking for the key words "volatile organic compounds," or VOCs, is important because VOCs are emitted by many, many items, including carpeting, electronics, cosmetics, plastics, cleaning supplies, tobacco products and more.
Today, most paints and stains will have low- or no-VOC on their labels, and that's significant because low- or no-VOC finishes which are water-based, are healthier for you and the environment, give off virtually no odor, and are much less likely to trigger allergies or other sensitivities.
Let's clear the air
The benefits of using products made from American hardwoods are limitless. Incorporate them into the places where you live, work and play. And then, breathe deep.
For more information on American Hardwoods, visit www.HardwoodInfo.com.";s:7:"summary";s:4586:"(ARA) - Flooring, cabinetry, and millwork made from American hardwoods are as much a part of the American Dream as a white picket fence. The beauty, architectural detail and overall inviting warmth they offer are often what make a house a home. So, it's no surprise that hardwoods are increasingly bringing the comforts of home to all types of settings, from schools and workspaces to health care facilities and performance venues.
But, there is more. According to the American Hardwood Information Center, (www.HardwoodInfo.com) hardwoods also help improve the air quality in the places you spend your time.
We've all seen those tiny particles floating around in a beam of sunlight. Those culprits are often the cause of many indoor allergies which affect nearly 40 million Americans. Did you know that to ease allergy symptoms, one of the first recommendations allergists make is to remove wall-to-wall carpeting in favor of solid floor surfaces, such as hardwoods?
Hardwood products offer help
"Allergists recognize that carpet is a huge collection net for dust and dust mites, live and dead insects and their waste products, mold and animal dander," says Dr. Dana V. Wallace, immediate past president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI). "Chemical treatments and professional steam cleaning will not remove all allergens, and are only effective for a short time. But all of these allergens can be reduced with hardwood flooring."
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), agrees. "We recommend hardwood floors," says spokesperson Angel Waldron. "They are easier to clean and do not harbor dust, dirt and allergens like carpeting." And to ease the suffering to a greater degree, Dr. Wallace suggests additional home considerations.
"The newest research shows that making one change in the home, like carpet removal, will reduce the allergen load, but it takes multiple interventions to reduce symptoms," Wallace says. "Other changes, like removing upholstered furniture, need to be made." And hardwood furniture, such as stools and desk chairs, offer a perfect solution.
But allergy issues also exist outside the home. The AAFA reports that allergies and asthma cause 40,000 people to miss school or work every day, resulting in $3 billion in lost productivity each year.
"Perhaps the increase in allergies and asthma over the past century has some relationship to moving away from hardwood flooring," says Wallace. "My school had hardwood flooring in the 1960s, and more recently, schools have been installing more carpeting. We need hard surfaces such as hardwood flooring, in public areas, to reduce allergen exposure."
Utkarsh Ghildyal, project manager at Renaissance 3 Architects feels that healthy and environmentally favorable hardwood floors are "more comfortable than concrete and are more easily maintained than carpet." Ghildyal says that, "we use hardwoods in our designs to express warmth and a sustainable aesthetic. There is a natural feeling to hardwood that is difficult to replicate."
The experts at Renaissance 3 Architects are not alone in their thinking. More and more designers are recognizing the limitless benefits of hardwood products, and are increasingly featuring them in schools, workspaces and health care facilities across the country.
But what about the finishes - won't they affect allergies?
The American Hardwood Information Center suggests you breathe deep, relax, but be knowledgeable. Reading product labels, specifically looking for the key words "volatile organic compounds," or VOCs, is important because VOCs are emitted by many, many items, including carpeting, electronics, cosmetics, plastics, cleaning supplies, tobacco products and more.
Today, most paints and stains will have low- or no-VOC on their labels, and that's significant because low- or no-VOC finishes which are water-based, are healthier for you and the environment, give off virtually no odor, and are much less likely to trigger allergies or other sensitivities.
Let's clear the air
The benefits of using products made from American hardwoods are limitless. Incorporate them into the places where you live, work and play. And then, breathe deep.
For more information on American Hardwoods, visit www.HardwoodInfo.com.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1321592400;}i:63;a:7:{s:5:"title";s:57:"Ideas to make your home more energy efficient this winter";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8054400304";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"11/18/2011";s:11:"description";s:3123:"(ARA) - After winter has arrived, you know what's coming next - higher energy bills. To get through the cold, dark months of the year, you flip on the lights and turn up the heat, both of which can send energy usage skyrocketing. It's natural to want to cut those costs - the good news is, it's easy to do.
Making your home more energy efficient has a triple pay-off: your bills can decrease, you're making a smaller environmental impact and you'll be keeping your family warm and toasty. To make sure that your home is as efficient as possible, follow these four tips.
Insulate
When the temperature drops, we often grab a blanket to help stay warm. Adding insulation to your home is like wrapping it in a warm blanket. Insulating areas such as attics, basements and crawlspaces can make your home more comfortable and lower your energy bills.
To get the biggest bang for your buck according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, add insulation to your attic. If your insulation is at or below the floor joists, you likely need to add more - 12 to 24 inches, depending on where you live.
Seal your windows
Even if windows are sealed with weather stripping, cold air can still enter through gaps. Use silicone caulk to seal air leaks or place shrink-wrap film over drafty windows to help reduce energy loss.
You can locate drafts on windy days by slowly moving a burning candle near the window. Whenever the flame moves or smoke blows, you've got an air leak that needs to be sealed.
Have your furnace inspected and clean your heating and cooling system
As you close up your home for the cold season, the contaminates that are in your air ducts and furnace recirculate through your home over and over throughout the entire winter. Your heating and cooling system can collect everything from mold, fungi and bacteria to tiny dust particles and allergens that can cause irritation to everyone in the house. In fact, according to the EPA, indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air.
"Having your heating and cooling system inspected and cleaned can extend the life of your furnace and can even make it run considerably more efficiently, saving you money on your monthly heating and cooling bills," says Matt Mongiello, president of NADCA - The HVAC Inspection, Maintenance & Restoration Association. "Having your system cleaned can also increase air flow which often translates into increased comfort for occupants in the home."
Change filters regularly
Once you have a clean heating and cooling system, it's crucial to change your furnace filters regularly. Filters are designed to remove the dust and debris from the air flowing into your home. When the filter is dirty, the furnace has to work harder to pull air through the clogged filter and your utility bills will be higher. Change your furnace filter once a month to keep your system running at peak performance.
For more information on how to winterize your home, visit NADCA.com.";s:5:"video";s:194:"";s:7:"summary";s:3123:"(ARA) - After winter has arrived, you know what's coming next - higher energy bills. To get through the cold, dark months of the year, you flip on the lights and turn up the heat, both of which can send energy usage skyrocketing. It's natural to want to cut those costs - the good news is, it's easy to do.
Making your home more energy efficient has a triple pay-off: your bills can decrease, you're making a smaller environmental impact and you'll be keeping your family warm and toasty. To make sure that your home is as efficient as possible, follow these four tips.
Insulate
When the temperature drops, we often grab a blanket to help stay warm. Adding insulation to your home is like wrapping it in a warm blanket. Insulating areas such as attics, basements and crawlspaces can make your home more comfortable and lower your energy bills.
To get the biggest bang for your buck according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, add insulation to your attic. If your insulation is at or below the floor joists, you likely need to add more - 12 to 24 inches, depending on where you live.
Seal your windows
Even if windows are sealed with weather stripping, cold air can still enter through gaps. Use silicone caulk to seal air leaks or place shrink-wrap film over drafty windows to help reduce energy loss.
You can locate drafts on windy days by slowly moving a burning candle near the window. Whenever the flame moves or smoke blows, you've got an air leak that needs to be sealed.
Have your furnace inspected and clean your heating and cooling system
As you close up your home for the cold season, the contaminates that are in your air ducts and furnace recirculate through your home over and over throughout the entire winter. Your heating and cooling system can collect everything from mold, fungi and bacteria to tiny dust particles and allergens that can cause irritation to everyone in the house. In fact, according to the EPA, indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air.
"Having your heating and cooling system inspected and cleaned can extend the life of your furnace and can even make it run considerably more efficiently, saving you money on your monthly heating and cooling bills," says Matt Mongiello, president of NADCA - The HVAC Inspection, Maintenance & Restoration Association. "Having your system cleaned can also increase air flow which often translates into increased comfort for occupants in the home."
Change filters regularly
Once you have a clean heating and cooling system, it's crucial to change your furnace filters regularly. Filters are designed to remove the dust and debris from the air flowing into your home. When the filter is dirty, the furnace has to work harder to pull air through the clogged filter and your utility bills will be higher. Change your furnace filter once a month to keep your system running at peak performance.
For more information on how to winterize your home, visit NADCA.com.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1321592400;}i:64;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:66:"Four ways to achieve a luxurious look with an affordable price tag";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8059430203";s:7:"pubdate";s:9:"11/4/2011";s:11:"description";s:3839:"(ARA) - It's not uncommon for homeowners to get the itch to move when they've been in their house awhile. While just picking up and moving isn't an option for most of us, there's another approach that people are taking: Refreshing their house to create a high-impact, high-style look, but doing it in a way that's cost effective.
You don't need to be an interior design expert to pull this off, either. A little creativity, adaptive reuse and the right focal point can give your home a luxurious look at a reasonable price, according to top experts who specialize in fabulous on a budget.
"Affordable luxury means achieving comfort and a high level of style for a price point that is not going to break the bank," affordable-luxury designer Sarah Barnard says.
Here are a few ways to achieve a high-end look at a low-end cost for your next indoor and outdoor project.
* Use materials that are timeless and classic.
"Mix the old with the new," says Blanche Garcia, interior designer and contestant on HGTV's "Design Star." "It's about finding a balance between interjecting something really beautiful with a flea market find."
She recommends starting with something simple - like a great desk - as an anchor piece and fill in around it. Use large pieces you already have that can endure quality and aesthetics but will not look dated or need to be replaced. Add trims around living room windows and doors to create a timeless feel.
* Keep textures warm and beautiful
"Somehow, we are missing the warmth in new homes," Blanche says. "You can change that feeling by using lines that are classic and clean."
The simple yet elegant look of wood, such as Western Red Cedar, instantly adds a glow and beauty to any room. This versatile material holds a finish for an extended period of time and weathers beautifully naturally, making it a lasting choice inside and out for siding, wall boards, trim, posts or beams.
* Create visual accents
Simple details can add a luxurious feel to your home, and accents, such as antique lamps, artwork and fresh flowers, can spark visual interest. Garcia recommends adding pops of yellow for a more vibrant look, as an easy way to add spice at a low price. To create a more dramatic effect, consider adding blinds or shutters - inside or out - in warm natural red cedar for additional function.
* Think green.
It's easy to get an affordable luxury look using elements that are also eco-friendly, including locally-sourced products or natural materials. Barnard recommends looking at what's available and what can be reused for a fraction of the price. Consider using salvaged material by re-inventing old furniture, cupboards or light fixtures.
"It's about moving toward not just affordable luxury, but responsible luxury," says Barnard. "Instead of industrial manufactured materials, think natural materials. They're better for your family."
Make use of sustainably-harvested materials like red cedar that require minimal processing while reducing environmental impacts. Add luxury outdoors, by placing a reclaimed coffee table on your deck to extend the warm, luxurious look outside while creating a relaxing space. Planters and window boxes made with natural materials add warmth and texture as well.
At the end of the day, remember not to get swept up in fashion trends. "Don't just focus on things that are hot and new," advises Barnard. "You want a home that reflects your personal style."
For more details and to locate a Western Red Cedar retailer or distributor in your area, visit www.wrcla.org, and for more creative affordable luxury tips from the experts, visit the Real Cedar fan page on Facebook.";s:7:"summary";s:3839:"(ARA) - It's not uncommon for homeowners to get the itch to move when they've been in their house awhile. While just picking up and moving isn't an option for most of us, there's another approach that people are taking: Refreshing their house to create a high-impact, high-style look, but doing it in a way that's cost effective.
You don't need to be an interior design expert to pull this off, either. A little creativity, adaptive reuse and the right focal point can give your home a luxurious look at a reasonable price, according to top experts who specialize in fabulous on a budget.
"Affordable luxury means achieving comfort and a high level of style for a price point that is not going to break the bank," affordable-luxury designer Sarah Barnard says.
Here are a few ways to achieve a high-end look at a low-end cost for your next indoor and outdoor project.
* Use materials that are timeless and classic.
"Mix the old with the new," says Blanche Garcia, interior designer and contestant on HGTV's "Design Star." "It's about finding a balance between interjecting something really beautiful with a flea market find."
She recommends starting with something simple - like a great desk - as an anchor piece and fill in around it. Use large pieces you already have that can endure quality and aesthetics but will not look dated or need to be replaced. Add trims around living room windows and doors to create a timeless feel.
* Keep textures warm and beautiful
"Somehow, we are missing the warmth in new homes," Blanche says. "You can change that feeling by using lines that are classic and clean."
The simple yet elegant look of wood, such as Western Red Cedar, instantly adds a glow and beauty to any room. This versatile material holds a finish for an extended period of time and weathers beautifully naturally, making it a lasting choice inside and out for siding, wall boards, trim, posts or beams.
* Create visual accents
Simple details can add a luxurious feel to your home, and accents, such as antique lamps, artwork and fresh flowers, can spark visual interest. Garcia recommends adding pops of yellow for a more vibrant look, as an easy way to add spice at a low price. To create a more dramatic effect, consider adding blinds or shutters - inside or out - in warm natural red cedar for additional function.
* Think green.
It's easy to get an affordable luxury look using elements that are also eco-friendly, including locally-sourced products or natural materials. Barnard recommends looking at what's available and what can be reused for a fraction of the price. Consider using salvaged material by re-inventing old furniture, cupboards or light fixtures.
"It's about moving toward not just affordable luxury, but responsible luxury," says Barnard. "Instead of industrial manufactured materials, think natural materials. They're better for your family."
Make use of sustainably-harvested materials like red cedar that require minimal processing while reducing environmental impacts. Add luxury outdoors, by placing a reclaimed coffee table on your deck to extend the warm, luxurious look outside while creating a relaxing space. Planters and window boxes made with natural materials add warmth and texture as well.
At the end of the day, remember not to get swept up in fashion trends. "Don't just focus on things that are hot and new," advises Barnard. "You want a home that reflects your personal style."
For more details and to locate a Western Red Cedar retailer or distributor in your area, visit www.wrcla.org, and for more creative affordable luxury tips from the experts, visit the Real Cedar fan page on Facebook.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1320379200;}i:65;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:33:"Maximize your melting this winter";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8060860304";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"10/17/2011";s:11:"description";s:3916:"(ARA) - Snow typically starts falling across the U.S. in November, according to the National Weather Service. In 2010 more than one-third of the country was covered with powdery flakes by Thanksgiving. It's during this time people flock to the store to pick up shovels and snow blowers. Yet, one of the most versatile snow safety tools consumers have in their winter arsenal is ice melt.
It's easy to believe that all melters are the same, but much like you use one cleaning product for the bathtub and another for the countertop, you should also use specialty melters designed specifically for your environmental and safety needs. Choosing the wrong melter can not only waste time and money, it can cause unnecessary harm to sidewalks, driveways, pets and vegetation. Getting educated about how ice melt works and how to select the right one can be instrumental in having a fun and safe season.
Facts about freezing
Although many people believe ice melters damage concrete, the true culprit is the temperature. When ice melts naturally, it turns into liquid which runs down into the pores, or small holes, in concrete. When this liquid refreezes, it expands (similar to water in an ice cube tray that freezes) which may push apart the concrete and cause damage. The more times the temperature goes above and below freezing, the more times ice melts and freezes, leading to a greater risk of damage to concrete.
If protecting concrete is your number one safety priority this season, try Morton Safe-T-Plus. It contains hydroxyl ethyl cellulose (HEC for short) which actually helps form a protective seal to prevent melted ice from seeping into concrete pores, which can prevent costly damage to concrete walkways, driveways and steps.
Protect people, plants and pets
"Many consumers mistakenly believe all ice melt products are salt-free because sodium isn't listed as an ingredient. The truth is, any chloride is actually a form of salt," says Sara Matuszak, brand manager at Morton Salt. Sodium chloride, potassium chloride, magnesium chloride and calcium chloride are all common ice melt ingredients which can be irritating to pets' paws. For pet parents, Morton Safe-T-Pet provides a salt- and chloride-free solution that's veterinarian-recommended to be safer for pet paws, skin and eyes than traditional melting salt.
Not one size fits all
Even in America's snow belt, average monthly temperatures don't typically fall below zero degrees Fahrenheit. A recent ice melt study from Michigan Technological University, a leading authority on snow removal and melter testing, found using only extreme temperature melters like calcium chloride was not necessary in most conditions. For smart melting, experts recommend having two types of melters on hand, one for normal winter conditions and one for extreme temperature drops.
In normal winter temperatures (5 F and above), an "everyday" melter that contains milder ingredients like urea and potassium chloride are best. These melters clear ice and snow but are safer for plants, pets and people than traditional melting salt. For the few occasions when temperatures drop drastically (below zero F) use an "extreme" melter that contains calcium chloride. These products can be less safe than the milder ingredients listed above, but they can be necessary to keep driveways and walkways clear and safe in extreme conditions.
No matter whether you expect to see one inch of snow this season or 100, read the label before you buy and seek out products with third-party performance validation to ensure the ice melt you bring home is up for the job. For more information, visit www.mortonmelters.com.";s:7:"summary";s:3916:"(ARA) - Snow typically starts falling across the U.S. in November, according to the National Weather Service. In 2010 more than one-third of the country was covered with powdery flakes by Thanksgiving. It's during this time people flock to the store to pick up shovels and snow blowers. Yet, one of the most versatile snow safety tools consumers have in their winter arsenal is ice melt.
It's easy to believe that all melters are the same, but much like you use one cleaning product for the bathtub and another for the countertop, you should also use specialty melters designed specifically for your environmental and safety needs. Choosing the wrong melter can not only waste time and money, it can cause unnecessary harm to sidewalks, driveways, pets and vegetation. Getting educated about how ice melt works and how to select the right one can be instrumental in having a fun and safe season.
Facts about freezing
Although many people believe ice melters damage concrete, the true culprit is the temperature. When ice melts naturally, it turns into liquid which runs down into the pores, or small holes, in concrete. When this liquid refreezes, it expands (similar to water in an ice cube tray that freezes) which may push apart the concrete and cause damage. The more times the temperature goes above and below freezing, the more times ice melts and freezes, leading to a greater risk of damage to concrete.
If protecting concrete is your number one safety priority this season, try Morton Safe-T-Plus. It contains hydroxyl ethyl cellulose (HEC for short) which actually helps form a protective seal to prevent melted ice from seeping into concrete pores, which can prevent costly damage to concrete walkways, driveways and steps.
Protect people, plants and pets
"Many consumers mistakenly believe all ice melt products are salt-free because sodium isn't listed as an ingredient. The truth is, any chloride is actually a form of salt," says Sara Matuszak, brand manager at Morton Salt. Sodium chloride, potassium chloride, magnesium chloride and calcium chloride are all common ice melt ingredients which can be irritating to pets' paws. For pet parents, Morton Safe-T-Pet provides a salt- and chloride-free solution that's veterinarian-recommended to be safer for pet paws, skin and eyes than traditional melting salt.
Not one size fits all
Even in America's snow belt, average monthly temperatures don't typically fall below zero degrees Fahrenheit. A recent ice melt study from Michigan Technological University, a leading authority on snow removal and melter testing, found using only extreme temperature melters like calcium chloride was not necessary in most conditions. For smart melting, experts recommend having two types of melters on hand, one for normal winter conditions and one for extreme temperature drops.
In normal winter temperatures (5 F and above), an "everyday" melter that contains milder ingredients like urea and potassium chloride are best. These melters clear ice and snow but are safer for plants, pets and people than traditional melting salt. For the few occasions when temperatures drop drastically (below zero F) use an "extreme" melter that contains calcium chloride. These products can be less safe than the milder ingredients listed above, but they can be necessary to keep driveways and walkways clear and safe in extreme conditions.
No matter whether you expect to see one inch of snow this season or 100, read the label before you buy and seek out products with third-party performance validation to ensure the ice melt you bring home is up for the job. For more information, visit www.mortonmelters.com.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1318824000;}i:66;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:57:"Six factors to consider before installing a gas fireplace";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8055680203";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"12/13/2011";s:11:"description";s:5132:"(ARA) - A gas fireplace can add ambiance and warmth to any room, and with the cold weather, you might be dreaming of adding one in your home. Because purchasing a fireplace is not something we do every day, there are some important things to consider.
If you have lots of questions, you're not alone. It's smart to do your research and get advice from the pros. Joel Ginsberg, retail manager and fireplace expert for Fireside Hearth & Home, offers some important considerations so you get the right gas fireplace for your home.
Are you adding a new gas fireplace or converting an existing masonry wood-burning fireplace?
Many people choose gas fireplaces for the convenience. You can heat your home and enjoy beautiful ambiance by simply touching a remote control or wall switch. Whether you're starting new, or want to replace an old fireplace from the 70s or 80s, there are plenty of affordable options.
Already have a wood-burning fireplace? Consider transforming it with a cleaner and more efficient gas fireplace insert that fits directly into the existing opening. As part of the installation, two liners are installed inside the chimney; one expels the fire's combustion exhaust and byproducts outside the home, the other draws in outside air for combustion. This guarantees no room air is used for combustion which stops heat loss and protects the indoor air quality of your home. You get the benefits of gas without having to replace the entire fireplace.
What style fireplace fits your home?
The sky is the limit when it comes to fireplace design. Whether you prefer the traditional stone fireplace designs or you favor sleek modern styles, there's bound to be something to complement your home's interior design.
The look of the fire itself comes with many style options. Traditionalists prefer realistic manufactured logs with burning embers. However, if your design style leans toward contemporary, you might like options like the Cosmo 32, manufactured by Heat & Glo. These styles are inspired by European designs that have features like linear flames that flicker in unison, unique materials like black onyx, and panoramic viewing angles of the fire. Placement is also being redefined, as modern style fireplaces are often positioned at a higher level, evoking a living piece of fine art. To find out which style is best for you visit www.fireplaces.com.
What are your heating efficiency requirements?
Did you know a gas fireplace or fireplace insert can help reduce your heating costs? Similar to the premise of a hybrid car, you can turn down your home's thermostat and Zone Heat the rooms you use most with an efficient gas fireplace. This cuts down on the amount of fuel consumed by your furnace and can help to reduce home heating bills by 20 to 40 percent, according to the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association.
Do you want a vented or vent-free gas fireplace?
Depending on the manufacturer and model, gas fireplaces can be vented or unvented. Direct vented gas fireplaces have sealed combustion systems that protect indoor air quality by drawing outside air for the fire and expelling 100 percent of combustion exhaust and by-products outside the home, resulting in a safe, beautiful fire. In contrast, unvented (a.k.a. vent-free or vent-less) fireplaces lack sealed combustion or venting systems, drawing indoor air and oxygen for the fire, while expelling exhaust and byproducts, like carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide and moisture, into the home. While unvented units are legal in many areas of the country, some hearth manufacturers, remodelers and hearth retailers will not sell them due to safety and moisture/condensation issues.
What is your budget?
"For the most part, when people enter the store, they assume it will be expensive to purchase and install a gas fireplace or fireplace insert. Most people are pleasantly surprised at how inexpensive it can be," comments Ginsberg.
He says the average price of a gas fireplace including installation is $4,400. For those interested in a gas fireplace insert, the cost can be as little as $2,900 installed.
What is the return on investment?
These days, homeowners want to make sure the money they put into their home adds value. There is good news: Homebuyers consider fireplaces one of the top three desired home features, according to Remodeling Magazine. Also, according to the Residential Cost Handbook, a gas fireplace can add an average of $5,900 to the value of a home. Therefore when it comes time to sell, homes with gas fireplaces have an advantage.
As we head into the cold winter months, it is natural to want to warm up by a fire. Given the potential of increased efficiencies, zone heating to reduce utility bills and hours of ambiance and enjoyment, installing a gas fireplace has a multitude of benefits.";s:7:"summary";s:5132:"(ARA) - A gas fireplace can add ambiance and warmth to any room, and with the cold weather, you might be dreaming of adding one in your home. Because purchasing a fireplace is not something we do every day, there are some important things to consider.
If you have lots of questions, you're not alone. It's smart to do your research and get advice from the pros. Joel Ginsberg, retail manager and fireplace expert for Fireside Hearth & Home, offers some important considerations so you get the right gas fireplace for your home.
Are you adding a new gas fireplace or converting an existing masonry wood-burning fireplace?
Many people choose gas fireplaces for the convenience. You can heat your home and enjoy beautiful ambiance by simply touching a remote control or wall switch. Whether you're starting new, or want to replace an old fireplace from the 70s or 80s, there are plenty of affordable options.
Already have a wood-burning fireplace? Consider transforming it with a cleaner and more efficient gas fireplace insert that fits directly into the existing opening. As part of the installation, two liners are installed inside the chimney; one expels the fire's combustion exhaust and byproducts outside the home, the other draws in outside air for combustion. This guarantees no room air is used for combustion which stops heat loss and protects the indoor air quality of your home. You get the benefits of gas without having to replace the entire fireplace.
What style fireplace fits your home?
The sky is the limit when it comes to fireplace design. Whether you prefer the traditional stone fireplace designs or you favor sleek modern styles, there's bound to be something to complement your home's interior design.
The look of the fire itself comes with many style options. Traditionalists prefer realistic manufactured logs with burning embers. However, if your design style leans toward contemporary, you might like options like the Cosmo 32, manufactured by Heat & Glo. These styles are inspired by European designs that have features like linear flames that flicker in unison, unique materials like black onyx, and panoramic viewing angles of the fire. Placement is also being redefined, as modern style fireplaces are often positioned at a higher level, evoking a living piece of fine art. To find out which style is best for you visit www.fireplaces.com.
What are your heating efficiency requirements?
Did you know a gas fireplace or fireplace insert can help reduce your heating costs? Similar to the premise of a hybrid car, you can turn down your home's thermostat and Zone Heat the rooms you use most with an efficient gas fireplace. This cuts down on the amount of fuel consumed by your furnace and can help to reduce home heating bills by 20 to 40 percent, according to the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association.
Do you want a vented or vent-free gas fireplace?
Depending on the manufacturer and model, gas fireplaces can be vented or unvented. Direct vented gas fireplaces have sealed combustion systems that protect indoor air quality by drawing outside air for the fire and expelling 100 percent of combustion exhaust and by-products outside the home, resulting in a safe, beautiful fire. In contrast, unvented (a.k.a. vent-free or vent-less) fireplaces lack sealed combustion or venting systems, drawing indoor air and oxygen for the fire, while expelling exhaust and byproducts, like carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide and moisture, into the home. While unvented units are legal in many areas of the country, some hearth manufacturers, remodelers and hearth retailers will not sell them due to safety and moisture/condensation issues.
What is your budget?
"For the most part, when people enter the store, they assume it will be expensive to purchase and install a gas fireplace or fireplace insert. Most people are pleasantly surprised at how inexpensive it can be," comments Ginsberg.
He says the average price of a gas fireplace including installation is $4,400. For those interested in a gas fireplace insert, the cost can be as little as $2,900 installed.
What is the return on investment?
These days, homeowners want to make sure the money they put into their home adds value. There is good news: Homebuyers consider fireplaces one of the top three desired home features, according to Remodeling Magazine. Also, according to the Residential Cost Handbook, a gas fireplace can add an average of $5,900 to the value of a home. Therefore when it comes time to sell, homes with gas fireplaces have an advantage.
As we head into the cold winter months, it is natural to want to warm up by a fire. Given the potential of increased efficiencies, zone heating to reduce utility bills and hours of ambiance and enjoyment, installing a gas fireplace has a multitude of benefits.";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1323752400;}i:67;a:6:{s:5:"title";s:58:"How to have easy-blooming flower power for any size garden";s:4:"guid";s:10:"8060600205";s:7:"pubdate";s:10:"12/26/2011";s:11:"description";s:3772:"(ARA) - Tired of winter white? Chances are you're itching to dig in the soil and fill your garden with plants and flowers bursting with rich color and fragrance.
"Designing with colorful, low-maintenance plants that bloom year round is one of my greatest pleasures," says Susan Olinger, president of the Association of Professional Landscape Designers.
For the average person that's not as simple as it sounds, but coming this spring, it will be easy to add plenty of "flower power" to any garden, patio or balcony with new Bloomtastic! flowers and plants from Hines Growers.
These easy, low-maintenance flowers have been handpicked to provide rich color and gorgeous blooms that turn ordinary yards into show-stopping gardens from spring to late fall.
Check out these tips from garden pros for eye-popping color and abundant blooms spring through fall.
1. The right plant for the right spot. Too often we're seduced by pretty plants at a garden center, only to find it withers and dies when we plant it in our garden.
"You'll have greater success if you know what plants work best in your yard's conditions," says Justin Hancock, garden editor for Better Homes and Gardens online. "Know how much sun, soil and water the plant needs and make sure it can handle the heat and cold in your area before you buy it."
Lack of rain can ruin a garden. Plants like new Agapanthus Summer Sky and a new Black Hawaiian Spider Lily called Crinum Purple Dream can handle drought conditions once established.
If you have deer, choose plants they don't eat like Agapanthus Summer Sky. This airy plant with striking blue flowers and variegated foliage is perfect for containers, English gardens or mass plantings throughout your landscape.
2. Design for continuous garden interest. When designing your garden, don't buy plants that bloom at the same time. Instead, Hancock suggests you add plants that bloom in spring, summer and autumn. "Look for long-blooming plants to be the backbone of your garden design."
Decorate your patio, deck or garden with spring and early summer bloomers like the new Bambino bougainvillea in eight dazzling colors with unique foliage. Then turn up the color wattage for summer and fall with the new Hibiscus Bahama Bay Amazon Queen. Its deep orange tones add tropical punch to any patio or yard.
3. Create drama with foliage. "Don't forget how powerful foliage can be," says Hancock. Many plants have different colors in their leaves and can show off brilliant color in a small garden or in containers.
"Plants with deep purple leaves are important in garden design because they look good all season long," Hancock adds. Purple Dream's leaves look almost black when grown in full sun and are dramatic against its showy pink flowers.
4. Make your garden nature friendly. Flowers that attract hummingbirds, butterflies or song birds are good for wildlife and add extra interest beyond their beautiful blooms.
A new dwarf butterfly bush, Lavender Veil, grows low to the ground and is covered with fragrant flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies well into fall. "This new butterfly bush is perfect for hanging baskets or containers and drapes any landscape in a sea of purple," says Hancock, who recommends mass planting three to five of the compact butterfly bush for vivid flower power.
With a little planning and the right plants, you can transform your garden from winter doldrums to a vibrant garden paradise with little maintenance.
For more information on the new Bloomtastic! plants, visit www.hineshort.com.";s:7:"summary";s:3772:"(ARA) - Tired of winter white? Chances are you're itching to dig in the soil and fill your garden with plants and flowers bursting with rich color and fragrance.
"Designing with colorful, low-maintenance plants that bloom year round is one of my greatest pleasures," says Susan Olinger, president of the Association of Professional Landscape Designers.
For the average person that's not as simple as it sounds, but coming this spring, it will be easy to add plenty of "flower power" to any garden, patio or balcony with new Bloomtastic! flowers and plants from Hines Growers.
These easy, low-maintenance flowers have been handpicked to provide rich color and gorgeous blooms that turn ordinary yards into show-stopping gardens from spring to late fall.
Check out these tips from garden pros for eye-popping color and abundant blooms spring through fall.
1. The right plant for the right spot. Too often we're seduced by pretty plants at a garden center, only to find it withers and dies when we plant it in our garden.
"You'll have greater success if you know what plants work best in your yard's conditions," says Justin Hancock, garden editor for Better Homes and Gardens online. "Know how much sun, soil and water the plant needs and make sure it can handle the heat and cold in your area before you buy it."
Lack of rain can ruin a garden. Plants like new Agapanthus Summer Sky and a new Black Hawaiian Spider Lily called Crinum Purple Dream can handle drought conditions once established.
If you have deer, choose plants they don't eat like Agapanthus Summer Sky. This airy plant with striking blue f