Kitchen Redesign Mistakes to Avoid

A new kitchen is one of the most rewarding projects you can begin on your home. After all, your kitchen acts as the heart of your home. It is where family meeting occur; homework sessions are held; and holiday celebrations happen. More memories are made in your kitchen than any other room.

Unfortunately far too many people begin this project without seriously thinking of everything involved. First of all, redesigning your kitchen is an expensive venture. Any changes or mistakes can end up costing you a lot of money. It isn't a simple and cheap fix to switch from a run-of-the-mill stove to a soapstone stove. You better have a plan of action.

Here are some of the more common mistakes people make when remodeling their kitchen:

Mistake: Over-customizing and No Flexibility

Difficult and over specialized items can be a nightmare for both you and the contractor. Not only are some items expensive, but they are also difficult and time consuming to replace. Replacing a granite counterop to soapstone slabs or soapstone blocks costs money. Unless money isn't an issue, it is wise to remain flexible regarding materials and the design for your new kitchen.

Mistake: Changing Plans

Changing the kitchen design plans once the work has started is never a good thing. Most of the materials have already been ordered and the measurements calculated. If you are unsure of going with a soapstone stove, don't order it until you are certain you love the look of soapstone stoves. It will make things much easier for you and your contractor.

Mistake: Allowing A Designer to build Your Kitchen with No Input

It isn't uncommon for a designer's taste to vary from your own ideas on what you want your kitchen to look like. By not expressing what you want, you probably won't be very happy with the finished results. If you love the look of soapstone or want a soapstone counter, tell the designer so in the beginning. Work with your designer and stay involved throughout the entire process.

Mistake: Spending Too Much Money on a Project

The average kitchen makeover adds only 8% to the market value of your home. Never invest more than 20% of its current market value. While you may love the idea of adding soapstone slabs or soapstone blocks, if you don't have the extra money for it, I would try another idea or make cuts in the projects somewhere else.

Mistake: Spending It All In One Place

One of the most common mistakes is not planning the budget well enough to cover unforeseen expenses. Circumstances pop up during your project from time to time. While you love soapstone and have your heart set on a soapstone counter, the manufacturer may be out. You now need to come up with a Plan B. The general rule for a remodeling project is to plan for 80% of budget should go to the remodeling itself and rest for unforeseen circumstances.

Anne has worked on many home improvement projects with a soapstone counter. Her specialties are redesigning ordinary kitchens into the extraordinary using soapstone slabs and soapstone blocks.

Motorized Shades - Primary Benefits

1. Convenience. Raising and lowering a manual shade is easy enough if it is not too big. But if the shade is very large or there are 2, 3, 4 or more shades then it becomes more difficult and more time consuming. The convenience factors of motorized shades are important for several other reasons listed below.

a. Maximizing Views. Having motorized shades mean the difference between seeing a beautiful sunrise/sunset or missing it. Stunning vistas are rarely missed when opening or closing shades is as simple as pressing a button.

b. Security. Motorized shades can easily be set on a timer so that when guests are away from home for an extended period of time, shades are raised and lowered at various preset times. This gives the impression that someone is living in the house which deters would be thieves.

c. Conserving Energy. The heat gain from sunlight through windows during summer months is a major burden on air conditioning. The convenience of motorized shades makes saving energy much simpler. Preset timers obviate the need to remember to raise or lower shades for energy saving purposes.

d. Protecting Furniture, artwork and flooring. The sun's rays can do damage to interior furnishings, causing fading, cracking or warping. The convenience of motorized shades makes protecting furniture, artwork and flooring much simpler. Preset timers are also useful in this regard.

e. Many Windows and/or Large Windows. As the number and size of windows increases, the case for motorization becomes increasingly compelling. Some walls of windows are 20, 30 or even 60 feet in length which makes motorization a practical necessity.

f. Hard to reach windows. These skylight windows, second story openings or windows blocked by furniture or other obstructions are why motorized shades were first conceived. Obviously, these factors are still relevant today.

2. Child Safety. A shocking number of injuries and deaths result each year due to cords from manual window shades. The window shade industry's "Child Safety Month" is intended to address these hazards with safety clips and consumer awareness. The best solution is no cords at all, which is possible with motorized shades.

3. Unsightly Cords. Aesthetically, cords detract from the clean look of a window opening. Multiple shades mean multiple cords, pooling on the floor when fully open. Motorized window shades means no more unsightly control cords and open, clear views through windows.

4. Less Wear and Tear. Tangling and unfamiliar 'user abuse' to shades are the most common causes of service calls. The control mechanisms on manual shades, if used frequently (see convenience factor above), will break and can be costly to repair or replace.

5. They are cool! Functionally, motorized shades make a lot of sense and aesthetically, they are definitely preferable to manual shades. Let's not forget that they also have an impressive WOW Factor!

The author, Gavin Sword, is an owner of Automated Shading - New York Motorized Shades The company offers Motorized Shades in New York, Florida, (Miami, Naples, Tampa, Orlando), New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Installing Drywall - Mudding and Taping

Installing Drywall, or hanging drywall as the professionals usually refer to the task, can be done by the homeowner. However, it is usually best done with two or more people as it requires significant lifting of heavy material. Mudding and Taping can also be performed by the homeowner, however these tasks require some practice and artistry.

Measuring and Ordering Drywall

Prior to actually hanging the drywall, the material first needs to be ordered and delivered. To determine how much material to order, measure all of the surface area, starting with the ceilings and then the walls. Calculate the total square feet and divide by 32. The result should give you the number of 4'x 8' sheets of drywall required for the job. I would also recommend adding another 5-10% to this figure to account for inefficiencies. Drywall does come in larger sheets, such as 4'x12', however for a Do-it-Yourself homeowner these larger sheets can become unwieldy and maybe even impossible to bring into the existing home.

For bathrooms or other moist areas Greenboard should probably be used as this material is moisture resistance.

For bathroom areas where ceramic tile is to be applied, e.g. Shower/Bathtub areas, Concrete board should be used. The concrete board is also referred to as Wonderboard or Durock.

Joint Compound and Fiberglass tape will also be required for Taping and Mudding. Joint Compound typically comes ready-mixed in 5 gallon containers. I would suggest 1-2 containers per 500 square feet of drywall. Fiberglass tape is quite inexpensive so I would suggest picking up 2 to 3 roles for most Do-it-Yourself drywall projects.

Drywall screws or ringed nails will also be required. Typically I use 1.25" length screws or nails. Also, strips of corner bead will be required.

Drywall Tools

Prior to starting drywall installation, you need to obtain the proper tools. A Drywall Lift really comes in handy when hanging sheetrock/drywall on the ceilings. You can rent Drywall Lifts at hardware or home improvement stores. If your budget does not allow for this cost, Jacks (or Ts) can be made out of 2"x 4"s. The Jacks (or Ts) should be of a length such that they are just an inch or two taller than the height of the ceiling and have a cross beam that is approximately 3' in width. Usually there are a couple of 45o angle braces connecting the crossbar to the main stem of the Jack. The Jack can then be used to hold up the drywall to the ceiling while it is screwed/nailed into place.

In addition to the Lift or Jacks, a drywall screw gun, hammer, T-square, carpenters knife, drywall saw and a keyhole saw are required. The keyhole saw is used for cutting around electrical boxes.

If mudding and taping are to be performed then Taping knifes, a Corner knife, sand paper, a pole sander and a Mud easel or pan will be necessary. For the taping knifes you will need a 6" wide blade and a 12" wide blade.

Preparing the site for Drywall

Prior to hanging the drywall, make sure the building inspector has first approved the Framing, Plumbing, Electrical and Insulation jobs. Secondly, a vapor barrier should be applied over the insulation on the outside walls if un-faced insulation was installed. Frequently sheets of plastic are used for creating the vapor barrier. The plastic is simply stapled to the framing, covering the insulation.

Finally, inspect all of the framing carefully. Ensure that nailers (e.g. 2" x 4"s) are existent at each corner and header, that the framing is straight, and that the framed walls create smooth planes. In addition, the ceiling should have strapping applied (1" x 3" cross boards). Also, make sure metal protection plates have been installed to studding where sheetrock screws or nails could inadvertently penetrate plumbing pipes or electrical wire.

Safety

Drywall installation is dirty, heavy work. The Gypsum in drywall can be irritating to the eyes, lungs and sinuses so wear safety goggles and masks to avoid breathing in the material. Gloves are also recommended to protect against sharp blades.

Installing Drywall

Start with the ceiling as this will allow the sheets on the walls to help hold the sheets on the ceiling. Use the Drywall lift or Jacks to hold the sheets in place while screwing or nailing them to the ceiling. The screws or nails should be installed such that they are slightly recessed and create a small dimple without breaking the paper. Screws or nails should be applied every 8 to 12 inches on each stud. Screws are typically stronger and can be placed further apart, e.g. 12 inches. It is best to fasten the screws/nails to the edges of the drywall first and then fill in the field afterwards.

Rows of drywall should be applied in a staggered pattern. This will create an interlocked pattern that creates a tighter and stronger ceiling/wall.

After the ceiling has been completed it its time to move on to the walls. Drywall should be applied from the top down, with the sheets hung perpendicular to the floor joists or studs. Again the rows should be staggered. The bottom piece should sit about inches from the sub-floor.

For purposes of efficiency and strength it is best to apply the large sheets of drywall over the doors and window openings and cut out the excess later. This will create stronger/cleaner looking walls and save significant time.

Installing Corner bead

Once the drywall has been installed, corner bead should be applied to all outside edges. Corner bead should be nailed every 6-8 inches and penetrate the framing.

Taping and Mudding

Again start with the ceiling. Apply a skim coat of joint compound over the surface of a seam using a 6" wide taping knife. If the seam is wide, apply a liberal amount of joint compound to fill it. While the Joint compound is still wet, apply the fiberglass tape over the skim coat of Joint Compound. Make sure the seam is centered under the tape. Once the tape has been installed, apply additional Joint Compound over the tape, again using the 6" wide taping knife. Continue this for all of the seams. Note: the tape will still be visible. Additional coats will eventually hide it.

The inside corners are usually the most tricky and require practice. Patience is the best advice and note that additional coats will be applied later to smooth out any imperfections.

Once the seams are done, using the 6" wide taping knife, apply mud to all of the screw/nail dimples. A skim coat is all that is initially required.

Note: When applying the mud over the tape and screw/nail dimples, make sure all excess material and uneven patches are smoothed down with the blade. This will reduce sanding later.

Once the ceiling is done, you can move on to the walls. Repeat the same process, however with the outside corners just apply a liberal coat of joint compound to the valley that is formed by the corner bead. This valley typically represents the first 3 or 4 inches from the edge of the corner.

Once the first coat has been applied let it sit overnight or until it is dry, prior to starting the second application of Joint compound. Make sure to completely clean off the taping knife, the mud easel and any other containers or instruments that have mud on them prior to finishing up for the day.

Applying the Second Coat of Mud

After the first coat has thoroughly dried, it is now time to apply the second coat of mud. It is this coat that should hide the tape.

Again, start with the ceiling. Using the wider taping knife apply a generous amount of joint compound over the taped seams as you want to build up the area over the tape. Taking large strokes smooth the joint compound over the tape applying more pressure to the side of the taping knife further away from the tape. This will help to leave more mud over the tape. When complete, the mud should cover an area that extends beyond the width of the tape by 2 to 3 inches.

After the seams have all been completed, apply a second coat of mud over the screw/nail dimples. With this second coat, flare out the mud over the dimples such that the diameter of the mudded area is about 3-4 inches in diameter.

For the inside corners a Corner knife may come in handy. Corners involve a little artistry so again take your time. Apply a generous amount of joint compound and then run the Corner knife down the corner starting from the top. Take long, even strokes. A 6" taping knife may also be helpful to smooth out any imperfections.

For the outside corners, using the broad taping knife apply a generous amount of joint compound and flare out the material such that it extends out 6 inches or so from the corner. Again, apply more pressure to the blade side that is further away from the corner so that you leave more mud nearer the outside corner.

Once the second coat has been applied let it sit overnight or until it is dry, prior to starting the final application of Joint compound. Make sure to completely clean off the taping knife, the mud easel and any other containers or instruments that have mud on them prior to finishing up for the day.

Applying the Final Coat of Mud

After the first coat has thoroughly dried, it is now time to apply the final coat of mud. It is this coat that requires the most artistry and the least amount of joint compound. Here you are simply applying a final skim coat to the already mudded areas.

Prior to applying the skim coat it is best to take your wide taping blade and lightly pass over the mudded surfaces. This will remove any bumps or ridges.

Again start with the ceiling seams and apply a small amount of joint compound using the broad taping knife. Again continue to flare out the seam by extending the mudded area such that about 6 inches resides on each side of the now invisible tape. Remember this is a skim coat so little mud is required. The purpose of this coat is to effectively fill in any lines or recessed areas.

After the seams have all been completed, apply a final coat of mud over the screw/nail dimples. With this second coat, flare out the mud over the dimples such that the diameter of the mudded area is about 6-8 inches in diameter.

For the corners use the broad taping knife and add just enough mud such that you can flare out the mudded surface area to about 8-12 inches, taking care to filling in any lines or dimples.

Once the final coat has been applied let it rest overnight or until it is dry,

Sanding

Sanding is a very dusty and dirty mess so please uses goggles and a mask.
I find it best to use a pole sander with an open screened sand paper material specifically designed for sanding sheetrock/drywall mud.

Lightly sand all of the taped areas, however concentrate sanding on the outer edges of the mudded areas such that all seams and ridges are eliminated and blend into the main surface areas.

Once sanding is complete, vacuum up the dust and you are ready for priming and painting the walls and texturing the ceilings.

About the Author: Over the past 20+ years Mark Donovan has been involved with building homes and additions to homes. His projects have included: building a vacation home, building additions and garages on to existing homes, and finishing unfinished homes. For more information about Home Improvement and Home Additions, and Home Remodeling and Repair visit homeadditionplus.com and homeaddition.blogspot.com

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Building Construction Software - Making it Easy For Estimators to Produce Cost Projections

A building construction software program has become one of the most important tools in the construction profession. These programs have made it easier for estimators to produce cost projections; for architects to develop a building design; for contractors to plan for building codes and other legal concerns; and for the homeowner or building owner to get an idea of what the project would entail in terms of costs, time and compliance.

Types of software

A construction project is made up of various steps, so it is to be expected that software packages for this profession will be numerous and varied. One of the more widely-used types is the computer-aided design or CAD software that is used mostly by architects and engineers. These types of programs are used for creating building plans and drawings and allow the designer or architect to have a three-dimensional perception of the project at hand.

Software programs for estimating construction costs are another of the more commonly used packages in the building trade. Programs for estimating building costs allow the user to produce expense approximates, employee and equipment scheduling plans, contractor bids, project reports and other elements of the project that have something to do with costs. These software packages can be purchased, but there are also those that are available for free in the Internet. However, free programs are mainly basic in terms of functions and can only provide rough estimates.

There are also programs for accounting, which help in keeping tabs of the costs of the project and provide bookkeeping information; software for environment and energy compliance concerns; programs for project contracts; and software packages that guide the owner and the builder through building codes and legal issues associated with a construction project.

What to look for in a software program

For those who are not very familiar with using CAD or other building trade software packages, it is important to choose the ones that are easy to use and can provide information that is not too muddled with unnecessary jargon. In buying software for a building project, look for brands that provide specific information about costs, plans and designs. The various screens should also be easy to understand, which means that they provide detailed information in the simplest language possible. The steps that it would take for a software user to perform basic actions should also be considered - the fewer, the better.

Building construction software products have revolutionized the architecture and construction industry. Whether you're a home owner or a builder or an architect, getting yourself familiar with these modern tools will go a long way towards helping you have a successful building project or a well-designed, within-the-budget home.

Read more information about Construction Estimating Programs and assessing construction costs of projects at http://www.construction--estimating.com

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Marble Tiles for Your Flooring

Most home owners want to have appealing homes. So they make sure to use and put materials that can add up to the beauty and appeal of their homes.

Marble tiles are materials that are popular in making home applications especially for floorings. These tiles have been used for time now since these materials are best for making sculptures, work of arts and building homes. It is a fact that when a person have an appealing home, he/she would feel relax after a long and busy day. So it is really a good thing to make a home appealing and beautiful. It can make the homeowner feel happy and can also attract guests and others.

In making home improvements, more and more people are using marble tiles especially for their floorings. Since in using these tiles, you can achieve an appealing and attractive home. There are plenty of varieties of marble tiles for you to choose from. These tiles differ in shapes, patterns, colors, textures and designs, so you have to get one that can match your home's style. So take your time in looking for the one that can look best at your home.

There are lots of advantages that homeowners can have in using marble tiles. These tiles can give cooling effect to one's home. It can maintain the coolness of one's home, so it is best for homes that have humid weather. These tiles are known for their elegance, so if you use these materials in your home, you will definitely gain an elegant and beautiful home. It will give shine and spark to your home, but of course, you have to do things to maintain its spark and shine.

You have to maintain the spark and elegance of your marble tiles flooring. Always keep it from dirt and dust. You can sweep it daily or mop it. You can also use vacuum cleaner to free it from dirt and dust.

Marble tiles are quite pricey but it is worth it since it can give elegance and spark to your home. So it is best to always maintain its beauty. Keep them from damage or stain. You have to keep your tiles from water and acidic solutions that can cause stains. But it is happens accidentally, you have to clean the spill right away.

Never drag things on your marble tiles, it can cause scratches. So it is best to put protective gears or bases to your furniture to prevent your tiles to be scratched. Indeed, they are best for home improvements, but you have to make sure to maintain it and take good care of it to make it last for long period of time.

Eliza Maledevic Ayson

http://marble-tile.xon.us/

Eliza Maledevic writes for http://Jump2Top.com - SEO Company

Toilet Paper Under The Bathroom

How to Build a Simple Computer Desk

Back a few years ago I decided I needed to buy a computer desk. After looking around at a half dozen furniture stores and department stores, I came to the conclusion that there were only two types of computer desks on the market; very expensive ones from high end furniture stores and pressed board garbage from low cost box stores. Neither suited my budget or tastes, but I needed a computer desk.

It was during this realization that I came up with an idea of building my own simple computer desk. I remember seeing standalone kitchen cabinets for sale at one of the local home improvement stores. I thought, hey if I could affix a countertop surface to two kitchen cabinets I'd have a functional computer desk.

Finding the Components for my Computer Desk

With the idea in mind I grabbed my tape measure and drove to a local home improvement store. The store had numerous standalone kitchen cabinets for sale, made from all types of wood. Some were low end constructed, while others were more high-end constructed. I found one cabinet that consisted of a top drawer and a large front door with adjustable shelves. I then found another cabinet consisting entirely of a column of drawers. After pulling them aside, I then visited the countertop area of the store, and surprisingly I found pre-fabricated 5 foot countertops for sale. I selected one that was aesthetically appealing to me and rested it on top of the two kitchen cabinets. I spaced the two kitchen cabinets apart so that they were located at the far ends of the countertop to allow room for a chair and seating. I then made a height measurement and determined that the only modification required was to cut about 2 inches off the bottom of each kitchen cabinet.

Building a Computer Desk

With my desk idea nearly realized, I purchased the two kitchen cabinets and countertop and brought them home for assembly.

Using a skill saw I removed two inches of the base of the cabinets. This was easy to do since the cabinets had about a 3 inch area below the fixed base cabinet shelf and the drawers that was effectively empty space. I then positioned the two cabinet pieces in my office area and mounted the kitchen countertop to the two cabinets using screws and brackets.

Finally, I mounted a keyboard tray slider to the underside of the countertop and my good looking and functional computer desk was ready for use.

Note: Keyboard tray sliders can be found at most office stores.

About the Author: Over the past 20+ years Mark Donovan has been involved with building homes and additions to homes. His projects have included: building a vacation home, building additions and garages on to existing homes, and finishing unfinished homes. For more home improvement information visit http://www.homeadditionplus.com and http://www.homeaddition.blogspot.com

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Choosing a Full Service Hotel vs A Condominium Resort

The thought of having someone at your service 24 hours a day is appealing whatever your reason for travel - whether for a vacation, business, or to visit your family. For some, staying in a hotel is just a place to rest their head while to others it is the destination itself. While some look for clean rooms and a good restaurant, others may prefer to have a variety of activities to keep them occupied during their stay.

For that reason hotels are as different as the travellers who stay in them. A traveller may find an Inn near the airport very suitable while another insists on 5 stars in the heart of London. Budget hotels exist for the person who is travelling on a strict budget and there are hotels which cater to the businessman and that offer meeting rooms and other business related services.

Resort hotels are popular with families travelling on holiday, while others prefer the quiet exclusivity of a boutique hotel overlooking the Swiss Alps. Boutique hotels offer a more personalized service, smaller and high end, they are often found in urban areas which give guests an opportunity to explore a different side of the city they are visiting.

What they all have in common is goods and services, in this case, full services. Hotels comprise a very large section of the establishment in the hospitality industry and are classified as offering full-service or limited-service, or no-service. Full-service hotels offer their guests a host of different services which include at least one restaurant as well as beverage options, be it a coffee bar, cocktail bar or lounge as well as room service. The larger hotels which cater for exclusive clientele quite often have retail shops available for their guests who can find daily newspapers, gifts or cosmetics.

On top of this, many full-service hotels offer laundry or valet services, a concierge who can arrange theatre tickets and taxis as well as a host of other services. Some boast swimming pools as well as beauty salons, and you may even be able to find a fitness or health centre.

How are Hotels Categorised

Full service hotels, such as a conference hotel, can be distinguished from one another by different features, or services they offer. Conference hotels provide meeting rooms and accommodation for out of town delegates as well as full banqueting services. While there are no hotels categorised as "wedding hotels," very large weddings are easily hosted in this type of hotel as they not only provide accommodation for the wedding party, but also host the wedding in beautifully decorated rooms while providing full catering services.

There are hotels dedicated to casino gambling which offer legal gambling on the same premises along with all the services you may want to find in a full service hotel. Some casino hotels also contain conference or wedding facilities.

Merging Full service with Condominium-Style Rooms

Condominium resorts are becoming more popular and quite a few luxury full service hotels are adding this option to their services. They tend to be very large establishments and because of this are usually managed by luxury hotel chains. But they can also be independently owned and then affiliated with a hotel chain through franchise agreements. This allows them the opportunity to participate in a national reservation service and gives the impression that they belong to a larger group. The main point is that they provide guests with the services and amenities offered by a full service hotel.

More often referred to as resort hotels, this type of accommodation is directed toward families on vacation, but also offers a guest the option of longer stays. They are often set in exotic locations, but can also be found in cities.

These offer luxurious accommodations comprising of apartments complete with kitchens, living and dining areas and separated bedrooms. They offer guests a host of recreational facilities which are suited to locations they are set in. Typically you can find these resorts in vacation destinations like Disney World for instance, but most often they are close to nature such as the sea or the mountains.

Among the facilities they offer are swimming pools, golf courses, tennis courts or other sporting activities like skiing, depending on location. They cater for your children by offering game rooms and supervised entertainment while the adults can make use of beauty spas or health centres.

These types of destinations are a great way to combine business with pleasure, and make perfect conference venues. While delegates are kept busy attending meetings during the day, their families are free to explore and partake in the many activities that are designed to keep them entertained and amused. In the evening, baby sitters can be arranged while you dine.

Due to the nature of their business, occupancy may fluctuate greatly with the seasons, and because of this you may find great off season offers and other incentives.

Stephanie Larkin is a freelance writer who writes about a wide range of topics involving the travel industry. Ms. Larkin also writes about the service side of the travel industry including travel deals one would find by working with a travel agent.

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Inexpensive Romantic Getaways at Hotels

If you are looking for a romantic getaway in western New York state, you need look no further than Buffalo, New York hotels that cater to the romantic couple. As Buffalo is close to Niagara Falls, you can take a long weekend to see the Falls, get away from it all and spend some romantic time together as a couple. And if you think that you have to spend a lot of money and cannot afford a weekend getaway, think again.

It does not have to cost you a lot of money to stay at a Buffalo, NY hotel or an Amherst hotel. You can find one that will not offer you all of the comforts of home, but even a package designed for the romantic couple. This includes accommodations and a gift card to a nearby restaurant, all included in the package.

If you stay in Buffalo, New York hotels that offer a free, continental breakfast, you can end up spending very little money during your long weekend getaway. These breakfasts offer muffins, pastries, cereal and even do it yourself waffles. Also included are juices, coffee and tea. If you time this right, you can have a brunch and then use the gift card for dinner, saving yourself a lot of money.

In addition to seeing Niagara Falls, you can also spend some time enjoying the amenities of the Buffalo, NY hotel. These include fitness rooms as well as indoor swimming pools. You can choose from king sized to queen sized rooms and have free internet access as well as cable TV, including HBO channels, right in your room. The lobby will often offer tea and other free beverages throughout the day so you can relax with one another and not end up spending a lot of money.

Many couples think that they have to spend a lot of money if they want to get away for a long weekend. This is not true. When you choose a Buffalo, NY hotel or Amherst hotel that offers these amenities, especially one that will give you a romantic weekend package, you can actually enjoy such a getaway on a shoestring budget.

In addition to Niagara Falls, there is much to see and do in Buffalo, NY. There is a huge shopping district and nearby university. Western New York state is one of the most picturesque areas of the state so you will not run out of romantic scenery when you visit this area of the country. This is true no matter what time of the year you are traveling to this part of the state.

If you think that Niagara Falls is just for newlyweds, think again. This area is one of the most romantic spots on Earth and visiting a Buffalo, NY hotel can really put the romance back into your relationship for a lot less money than you think. Instead of thinking that you cannot afford to get away together for a few days, consider a romantic getaway at one of the Buffalo, New York hotels that offer romantic packages.

Michelle Subs is an author and a consultant. For more information visit http://www.comfortinnuniversity.com

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African Safari Adventure at the Kalahari Hotel in Wisconsin Dells

The Kalahari Hotel in Wisconsin Dells is an ideal vacation place for tourists who would want to experience the adventures of the African Safari without having to go to Africa. The hotel features a large collection of tribal artifacts, jungle plants, African murals and many other African attractions.

The hotel also features its large indoor water park which is ideal for enjoyment with the whole family and friends.

Guests are welcomed by the friendly staffs. The hotel lobby is full of different African decors. As a tradition, each guest is provided with a colorful bracelet that serves as an entrance pass upon entering the water parks facilities.

The hotel is composed of more than 700 spacious guestrooms mostly called Hut Rooms. These rooms, decorated with a safari style theme, are equipped with microwave oven, mini refrigerator, iron, hair dryer, colored TV, coffee maker and other electronic facilities.

Other types of suites found in the hotel are as follows:

African Queen
Bird's Eye
Combination
Horizon
Hospitality
King Whirlpool
Royal African Queen
Royal Hospitality
Royal King Whirlpool
Royal Two Room Family
Safari
Two Room Family

Other types of rooms include:

Desert
Hut
Lodge
Nomad

There are also condo units and cottages available for sale or for rent.

There are plenty of restaurants within the hotel offering different kinds of local and international cuisines. The Kahunaville Restaurant is one of the restaurants which serve specialties from a Las Vegas type culinary. Room catering can be arranged from these restaurants.

The indoor water park of the hotel promotes a lot of excitement and attraction that can be enjoyed exclusively by the hotel guests. It comes with a wide area of dressing rooms. Among the major attractions of the water park are:

Master Blaster
Tanzanian Twister
Rippling Rhino
Lazy River
Victoria Falls
Flow Rider
Wave Pool

The water park employs professional lifeguards to ensure the safety of its guests. Exclusive pools for children are also available.

Right at the area of the water park, children and adults can have a refreshing drink of their choice from the concessions around the area.

Guests can also have a sip of their favorite wine or have dinner at the Great Karoo just outside the water park. It is strategically located for a great view of the whole water park.

After having the most exciting ride and spending a long day of adventure, you can indulge with a relaxing spa treatment at the Oasis Day Spa and Salon. It offers several natural spa treatments which will surely provide you the most relaxing experience you can ever have.

Hotel guests can also have the opportunity for hands-on experience in creating those masterpieces of pottery at the Pottery Pizzazz. This shop also sells a wide variety of pots explicitly designed ideal as souvenir items.

A great shopping experience can be enjoyed at the Zakanaka that features a wide array of beachwear, souvenir items, safari items and African clothing.

The hotel also caters to any social gathering events or business-related occasions such as tradeshows, exhibits, weddings, parties or corporate meetings. There are many conference rooms to choose from. Catering services can be arranged for the specific occasion.

The Kalahari Hotel in Wisconsin Dells is really a one-of-a-kind hotel that provides the most complete package perfect for a vacation and adventure.

For more information on Kalahari Hotel Wisconsin Dells and Wisconsin Dells Water Park Hotels please visit our website.

Stucco Stain From Roof Leak

Bathroom Remodels

There are a myriad of different reasons homeowners choose to remodel their bathroom. It seems though that the one of the most popular reasons is people want a functional yet more inviting bathroom, where they relax after a long day's hard work. Since a bathroom is a place where so much time is spent, it makes sense to have one that has a soothing, almost spa-like atmosphere. Today, bathrooms can be furnished with several different amenities including whirlpool bathtubs, steam showers, heated towel racks, and so on.

More and more homeowners are also deciding to take a more hands-on approach to their bathroom remodels and decide to do it themselves. Before you begin such a large remodel project by yourself, you should determine a few things so you know where to begin. Some of your decisions may be influenced by what particular bathroom it is (a full bathroom used by family and guests or the private master bathroom). In addition, you will have to determine if the size of the bathroom is adequate, if you want to replace any fixtures or bath furniture, and if you are going to completely remodel the bath and or shower. These will all significantly impact how minimal or extensive the remodel is.

Once you have determined what you want the remodel to accomplish (i.e. a new shower, bigger bathroom, etc.), you need to figure out how you want the design. Research online and through magazines to get an idea of the design and dcor you want for the bathroom. Do you want a traditional bathroom or something with a more modern feel? Pick out fixtures, bath furniture, and dcor that matches the style you want.

You also need to decide a budget. This is definitely one of the first things you should do since it will greatly influence everything else, from how extensive the remodel is to what kind of fixtures and bath furniture you select. Performing a do-it-yourself remodel will definitely help save money since you will not have to pay for labor.

Aside from the fact that you will get to enjoy a beautiful new bath, the great thing about a bathroom remodel is that it is a sound investment and will increase the value of your home. Should you ever decide to sell, it will increase the dollar value of the home as well as its selling appeal to buyers.

Drywall Repair For Damaged Walls

Laminate Flooring For the Bathroom

The flooring that you choose not only makes an impact upon the dcor of your room, but it can also affect the budget and your maintenance needs. Laminate flooring is one flooring choice that is wonderful for bathroom renovations. It comes in many different colors and styles, to allow you to find just the right look for your bathroom to turn it from boring and dull to extravagant and inviting. It is not just beautiful, however. It is also easy to clean and take care of, which is why many homeowners turn to laminate flooring for their homes. There are other benefits to adding laminate flooring, too.

If you are a do-it-yourselfer, then you will be happy to know that laminate flooring can easily be installed by you. Laminate can be installed over most existing flooring or over a concrete subfloor, which will save you time and energy in the installation process as well. It is a floating floor, which means that no glue or nail is needed because the pieces "float" on top of the existing flooring. The pieces lock together to create a cohesive and strong floor that will withstand wear and tear, giving you a durable and beautiful floor that you will enjoy and be satisfied with for many years. All you need to do is click and lock the pieces together and you will have a beautiful, inexpensive floor for your bathroom renovation or other room's renovation.

You want to take the health needs of your family into consideration when choosing your flooring, too. If you or a family member suffers from allergies or asthma, you will be happy to know that laminate is one of the easiest floorings to keep clean and healthy for you. It only needs to be vacuumed and/or damp mopped to help keep it dust and dirt free. It stays shiny without time consuming waxing and if you happen to scratch it, you can easily repair it. Most laminate flooring manufacturers include directions for caring for your laminate floors to keep it looking as beautiful as possible. Laminate is dust resistant and does not harbor any bugs that could cause an allergic reaction as well.

You can use laminate flooring in any room in your home. This is what makes it such a great choice. Kitchen and bathroom renovations are excellent choices for laminate flooring, simply because laminate holds up well to the activity that takes place in these much loved rooms. It stays looking beautiful and shiny with very little effort, too, which makes it great for any home. Laminate flooring will also work well in the living or family room. Adding the warmth of a wood grained laminate flooring can help to add just the right touch of welcomeness and warmness that you have been looking for.

No matter what color or type of flooring that you have been considering, you will want to check out laminate flooring. It comes in many different styles and designs from casual to extravagant to allow you to create the perfect look and feel for your room and your home.

Leroy Calstard very often creates publications on ideas corresponding to husky compressor and husky compressors. You can have a look at his publications on husky tools and husky compressor at http://www.insidewoodworking.com

Temporary Ceiling Repair

Protect Your Home and Health Against the Dangers of Moisture

If you are building a home, or remodeling a home think seriously about ventilation and preventing moisture damage. Homes are built much tighter these days, and proper ventilation is a must.

Moisture can be very damaging to a home, and sometimes even to your health. There are some types of mold that are downright dangerous.

Where does it all come from?

We have many moisture creating features in our homes today. Bathrooms, in particular, have changed and most homeowners are packing them with all that the latest fixtures have to offer.

The bath has become not only a place for hygiene and grooming, but a retreat with many spa-like amenities. These include steam showers, showers with multi-spray units and large rainheads as well as whirlpool tubs. Water is abundant today in a bathroom, and all of that moisture has to go somewhere.

Proper ventilation could save you a sizable sum in repairs, not to mention a lot of time and aggravation. Not only can moisture do structural damage, but it creates mold and adds to the time required for cleaning. Better to avoid either situation.

Good bathroom ventilation is used on a regular basis. This means you want a system that is quiet enough that you will actually use it. Also it is necessary to select a system that will do the job for the square footage that you have. You need to know what to buy to tackle the job at hand.

Proper installation to carry moisture outside

Your exhaust fan needs to be properly installed to be effective. That means it needs to send the moisture outside, and not into your attic where it could do more harm.

An adequate unit will cost you a bit of money, but the rewards make it money well spent. Better to remove moisture before you find you have damage to your structure, and need to make expensive repairs.

Find information on how to select an exhaust fan for proper bathroom ventilation, as well as more bathroom remodeling tips.

Vinyl Siding Melting Damage

Keys To Replacing Old Doors And Windows

Several businesses around the Irvine region offer a complete service for doors and windows at competitive prices. However, deciding which company to go with is a little more difficult. Homeowners who have decided to replace their existing doors and windows with a more energy-efficient glass should take many issues into consideration when deciding on which company to use.

Many companies in the Irvine region will offer excellent prices on the replacement of doors and windows. However, many of these companies will use inferior materials to save money. Many homeowners may be tempted to use these companies solely based on price, but cutting corners when it comes to your doors and windows will end up costing you in the long run.

Choosing the right doors and windows to complete your renovation of your home is an important first step. Energy efficient windows and doors can keep out the heat or cold weather. When doors and windows are built with inferior quality materials, they are not able to keep out all of the inclement weather, making it necessary to run the heater or air conditioning longer during the day. Energy efficient windows can, for example, keep the heat of direct sunlight from transferring into your home, keep the cold wind during winter out.

In the Irvine region, the heat of summer can often bring people's electricity bills into the hundreds of dollars per month. However, with a small investment, you can buy doors and windows that will lower your bills and give you a few hundred dollars per year in savings. This type of investment will pay for itself over just a few years, making it indispensable for any Irvine homeowner to replace their decaying doors and windows.

Accompany your new doors and windows with new technology that keeps your home energy efficient by lowering the amount of heat lost through the roof. By using modern insulation, homeowners can save significantly on their heating bills during the winter.

So when it comes time to remodel your home, don't just look for the company that offers you the cheapest price to replace your windows and doors. Rather, look for a company that uses the best materials and modern glass technologies to give you the greatest savings in the future. A few extra dollars in your original investment to remodel your home will reap benefits immediately as you begin to realize incredible savings on your electricity and gas bill.

Need more on windows and doors? Cal Windows and Doors specializes in bringing you information about the best such as Peachtree Windows and Doors and other high-quality companies. Learn how to prepare your home for sale with upgraded windows and doors and other great tips on how to get beautiful windows for your home.

Toilet Wood Floor Water Damage

Liverpool Airport Hotels - Why Should You Stay There?

Liverpool Airport Hotels are easy to find, as Liverpool Airport is ideally located just out side of Liverpool City Centre, and so is handy for all the facilities of a busy modern city such as Liverpool.

With passengers taking more city breaks, long weekends as well as longer holidays, there has never been a better time to enjoy your time off work, and travel.

If you fancy a long weekend exploring a European City, or visiting friends and family who live abroad, then perhaps you will want to extend your holiday by staying in a Liverpool Airport Hotel.

If you're considering arriving at, or departing from Liverpool Airport, you may be looking for a Liverpool Airport Hotel to stay in. As the airport is so close to the city centre, you can choose from any number of Liverpool Airport Hotels. With so much to do in Liverpool and Merseyside, you really will be spoilt for choice. And that's before you consider visiting places further afield such as North Wales, The Lake District and the Golf Coast. Why not stay in Liverpool for an extra day or two and make the most of your time here? From the tours of the Beatles landmarks, to the modern art at the Tate Gallery, other museums and art galleries, and the brand new exciting Liverpool One shopping environment, there really is plenty for everyone to do in Liverpool.

As well as Liverpool and Merseyside, the North West offers many places to visit and things to do. Sport is well represented in the North West. The North West coast is known as the Golf Coast, thanks the many golf courses, including Royal Liverpool, Royal Birkdale and Royal Lytham. There are also 7 Premier League football clubs in the North West. Horse Racing is also popular, with the famous Haydock and Aintree race courses easy to get to. Blackpool, Southport and the Lake District are all worth a visit if you can make the time.

The picturesque North Wales coast line includes the popular destinations of Rhyl, Colwyn Bay, Llandudno and Anglesey which are within easy reach, and there is always plenty to do, whatever the weather.

Whether you're flying to or from Liverpool Airport on a weekend city break or a summer or winter holiday, make sure that you consider a Liverpool Airport Hotel either before or after you travel.

With flights to and from many different European destinations, you can be sure that you can fly to where you want to be, or depart from where you are.

As the 2008 European Capital of Culture, Liverpool has become one of the most popular places to visit. Make sure you see what all the fuss is about, and either fly from, or to Liverpool Airport, and stay in one of the Liverpool Airport Hotels.

Find out more about Liverpool Airport Hotels, and book your Liverpool Airport Car Parking online at LiverpoolAirport.com

Support Post For Valley Beam

Antique Bathroom Vanities - A Choice Between Genuine And Imitation

Choosing antique bathroom vanity is a serious matter though. You simply do not go in a shop and but the first piece you see. Selection involves factors such as price, design, functionality, type of wood, age, and even the manufacturer.

Basically, when selecting the piece, you are caught between this question: "Should I go for the genuine vanity or should I buy antique design vanity? Unsuspecting buyers may think that every vanity, as long as they look "antique" is the same. The truth however is that both have different qualities.

So what's the difference between authentic antique vanity and antique-design vanity?

First and perhaps the best indicator of the authenticity of it is the price. Authentic antique vanity can go 10 times more expensive as its antique-design counterpart, or even more. And just like a good pair of jeans, it looks better through the years. Antique pieces are often made from mahogany, cherry and oak, types of hardwood that are known to last a lifetime, even more if it is treated properly with wood sealant. A good crafted one will not suffer any water damage.

Antique-design vanity on the other hand is relatively cheaper than its authentic counterpart but is still quite expensive. The price of a single piece can go from $400 to $2,000 depending on its size, design, and type of wood used. While it is not authentic antique, it is designed and crafted to appear very old and to reflect the age gone by using the same type of wood from which authentic vanities are made from. One of the advantages for choosing this type is that you can get it brand new. Meaning, they have the look of all the antique beauty and elaborate designs, but without the wear and tear. Also, your options are almost endless if you choose to buy brand new pieces without spending a lot of money.

Whether you buy an authentic or an imitation antique vanity, there are things that you have to make sure of. First, buy from a reputable manufacturer or antique store. Second, check the warranties that the company offers whether you buy it online or at your local antique or furniture store. And last, choose a vanity you really like.

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

Toilet Tank Lid Cracked

Miami Airport Hotels

If you are a traveler who is short on time, you could choose to stay in one of the Miami airport hotels. There are several good airport hotels in Miami where you can book your rooms directly through the website of the hotel or through their toll-free numbers. Famous airport hotels in Miami include Holiday Inn Miami, Crown Plaza Airport, and Holiday Inn Express Airport.

You can also collect more detailed information on Miami airport hotels from the Airport Hotel Guide. The guide is a popular information source, and it has been recognized by news organizations including USA Today and TSI International.

Rates for the hotels are available on a nightly basis. While searching for a good airport hotel, you might find hotels offering you a good discount. Roughly, the normal charges of the airport hotels can range from $300 upwards. For example, Hampton Inn and Suites charge an average rate of $208, while Mandarin Oriental Miamis average price is $561.

Miami airport hotels offer everything that you might need for a perfect stay. Hotels like Hilton advertise their services on their websites. For example, Hilton claims to provide in-room movies, mini-bar, hair dryer, coffeemaker, state-of-the-art alarm clock, and cable television with premium channels. It also talks of an ergonomic chair and business-friendly desk, wireless high-speed Internet access and dual-line telephones with speakerphones.

While you seek to make that business trip and lodge in one of the Miami airport hotels, you will usually experience a good ambience for business discussions and a personal serenity. And it wont be an exaggeration to say that Miami airport hotels can offer you the best mix of a business as well as a vacation trip.

Miami Hotels provides detailed information on Miami Hotels, Miami Beach Hotels, Discount Miami Hotels, Miami Airport Hotels and more. Miami Hotels is affiliated with Miami Beach Real Estate.

Plaster Wall Moisture Problem

Green Remodeling - Small Ways to Go Green

Homeowners who are environmentally conscious are today concentrating mainly on green remodeling. By going 'green', you may experience reduced building and maintenance costs and in the process, improved health. So even if your home is not 'green' you can always think of 'green' remodeling to make it green.

- When venturing into 'green' remodeling, you have to choose amongst options, features and products that serve your interests the best. When buying materials, choose organic, healthy and low impact things like bamboo flooring, natural plasters, natural fiber carpeting, low VOC paints and stains and non-synthetic and natural finishing like bedding linens and cleaning products.

- Other options you have are products with high levels of salvage like natural stone and lumber, agricultural byproducts like linoleum and wheat board and recycled products like fly ash in concrete. As these products are durable and come with low maintenance, they don't have to be replaced or refinished often. This way money and energy is saved, while waste is kept out of landfills.

- You could also consider products produced locally or regionally when going into green remodeling. This is because these local products support the local economy and have lower levels of embodied energy. This means that less energy and resources is used during its production and transportation as everything is found and done locally.

- Besides using these ecologically safe products and materials for green remodeling, there are some tips you have to bear in mind for reduced consumption of energy in your home. Use more of solar power through solar water heaters, passive solar and photovoltaics, where electricity is generated from solar power.

- Have a long lasting metal roof or use light colored 40 year old shingles for your roof as it is reflective, thus absorbing less heat and lowering air conditioning bills.

- When you are re-siding the exteriors of your home, use oriented strand board or low formaldehyde material.

- Install water efficient fixtures like low-flow shower heads and faucet aerators and dual flush flush toilets to reduce your utility bills.

- When choosing tiles, re-use salvaged tiles with 50% or more of recycled content in them.

- Chose your windows while taking insulation, infiltration prevention and durability into consideration for better heating and cooling of the home, and thus reduced utility bills.

- Use LED bulbs instead of incandescent light bulbs, and make sure built in lighting fixtures can accommodate LED bulbs too.

- In addition to all this, you could have a home recycling center that will help ease the burden on local landfills.

- Also have rain barrels kept under the roof or gutter for prevention of contaminated runoff, with urban pollutants, from traveling into lakes and rivers by trapping this water. This water can later be use for watering the yard or garden.

- Even consider setting a rain garden on a low point of the garden to collect rainwater to be used later.

By bearing all these points in mind while green remodeling, you are sure to be proud pretty soon of your environmentally friendly house.

James Tyler is the owner of Ace Builders, a residential remodeling company serving the Raleigh, North Carolina area. Tyler writes about issues relating to all types of remodeling and home improvement projects.

For more information, tips and advice visit http://www.acebuilders.net

Roof Truss Repair

Remodel Your Bathroom at the Lowest Cost

Bathroom remodeling concerns numerous options that can in fact turn your zeal and energy into something that seems like an overwhelmingly frustrating task. But when done with a proper plan that has been laid beforehand, it not only makes the work easy but also lowers the costs and also builds a bathroom that's functional and comfortable, and in fact enough to increase the value of your home.

An accurate budget being the keyword, you must also pen down your likes and dislikes. This shall determine your ultimate goal. Understanding all the required permits comes next; it shall help in creating an architectural plan to support your visualization.

If you are just planning to replace the old basin, the bath and the toilet, the cost shall obviously stay low. However, if it's a complete makeover of the layout, you need to re-route the existing plumbing, piping and the electrical connections. Add to this the bathroom floor and the costs can go up to several thousands of dollars. Therefore, you need to concentrate on the materials that shall resist the wear and tear of daily usage and still look good.

Stone and ceramic are thus the materials of choice for all those who admire durability. Though the price stays high initially, over years, it pays off offering a true value for your money. Else, it is vinyl; being resilient and allowing easy installation and cleaning, it is the ultimate choice for most on a shoestring budget. Or you may consider Acrylic; it is a lightweight material that's both resilient and tough besides being capable of retaining temperature. Those who are willing to get things made from glass, china, marble, wood and chrome, must keep their budgets slightly high above the lowest mark. The only other place you should spend more is on a high quality epoxy grout that won't crack with use.

Now, it's high time you start gathering the price quotes. You may visit different hardware stores and bathroom remodeling contractors but it shall take time finding the right one; else, there are online directories hosting a vast array of bathroom remodeling contractors and suppliers. The latter are controlled by an authoritative body. Therefore, there is no chance of their delivering you a haphazard job and running away with your money.

One such online directory is Respond; Respond.com brings together the best bathroom remodeling, plumbing and electrical experts along with suppliers with huge stores of goods required for every type of bathroom remodeling project. Let them know what's in your mind and the only task you shall need to perform is hitting the Go! Button; however, it may be a bit difficult for you to choose between the competitive rates.

Water Heater Damage

Why to Opt For Modern Showers

The foremost purpose of taking a shower is to maintain hygiene in a safe manner. It is easier done that bathing, especially for disabled and elderly people as one require very less effort to step in and out, which in turn presents a lower risk of slipping and falling.

There are many kinds of showers available these days, such as electric showers, power showers and mixer showers.

Electric showers provide instantaneous showering any time for any number of people. They take water directly from a cold water supply and heat it as it is used, so the need for storing hot water does not arise. They are also easy to install, either in traditional bathrooms or in dedicated cubicles.

Power Showers produce a much more powerful spray from the faucets than either electric or over head tank fed mixer showers, as the water pressure is enhanced by a pump that generates extraordinarily powerful flow rates.

Mixer showers do not require electrical connections. They are also are easy to install. For homes with enough supply of hot water, these mixer showers are the best option as they work by mixing together hot and cold water supplied to the desired temperature. The water flow levels are also better than electric showers.

Shower models come in all hues and types that can fit to any budget. The minimalist hand held shower to classic ones which can increase and decrease water jet force according to one needs.

As the arena of showering shifted to a bathroom from open water sources, cases of drowning and getting contagious diseases have gone to negligible levels.

If you want to know more about Showers then feel free to visit Bella Bathrooms.

Moisture On Vapor Barrier

Cyprus Holidays - Hotels in Ayia Napa

Island of Cyprus lies in the eastern part of Mediterranean Sea, not far away by shores of Libya. Due to its richness and pleasant climate, this land has been very disputed during the centuries and saw many bloody wars. Even today this country has two parts, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and the Republic of Cyprus, but the two parts live in pace and try to enjoy in harmony the fast growing development of the island. Nowadays Cyprus is member of the European Union and one of the main spots where are spent beach holidays in Europe.

Island of Aphrodite (its ancient name) or Cyprus is the third largest Mediterranean island and one of the favorite tourist destinations, attracting over 2 million holiday makers each year. All this people choose to spend holidays on Cypriot shores due to the excellent year-round weather, splendid sandy beaches, friendly people, and great accommodation offered by most hotels in Cyprus. No matter if vacationers choose to buy holiday deals in north or south, there are resorts where everything is designed to make travelers feel good and to let them to remember whit pleasure the moments spent there. In the south of Cyprus some of the main vacation spots are Paphos, Protaras, Limassol and Larnaca, while in north destinations which attract most tourists are Kyrenia and Ayia Napa.

All accommodation units on this sunny island welcome tourists with open arms, but hotels in Ayia Napa seem to be in the top of the best resorts in Cyprus. There are all kind of hotels in Ayia Napa, from budget 2 & 3 star hotels up to 4 and 5 luxury beach resorts, where holidays come to end too fast and are remembered long time after that! High-budget holiday makers can choose between Hotel Alion Beach, Hotel Panas Holiday Village, Hotel Napa Mermaid, Hotel Atlantica Club Sungarden Beach, Hotel Napa Plaza, Hotel Olympic Lagoon Resort, Hotel Nissi Beach, Hotel Asterias Beach, or Dome Beach Resort, while budget travelers have at disposal a wide range of excellent 3 star hotels like Hotel Limanaki Beach, Hotel Nestor, Hotel Nissi Park, Senator Hotel Apartments, Hotel Vias Apartments, and Hotel Bella Napa.

Ayia Napa is located on the eastern coast of Cyprus, very close to Cape Greco, and attracts foremost vacationers interested in spending beach holidays (its sandy beaches are renowned even worldwide!) and to enjoy the warm waters of Mediterranean Sea. A great fact in this beach resort is that in Ayia Napa can spend excellent vacations both families and singles (there are a few night-bars and clubs where are organized really great parties!) because in the area are features of all kind that make everyone feel well! Of course, daytime activities such as water-skiing, windsurfing, canoe rides, scuba diving, snorkeling and speed-boating are very popular among tourists, while in the night people who love to party can do it until a new day appears on horizon! Few people know that there is located the biggest and multiple award-winning theme water park in Europe, with a great variety of slides, so kids and adults alike can enjoy unforgettable moments under the friendly shine of Mediterranean sun! When vacationers got hungry after swimming or other activities, there are many restaurants where they can enjoy the tasty Cypriot foods and wines, renowned since the ancient times.

After tourists have spent memorable vacation days in Ayia Napa , most of them will return to the island of Aphrodite to enjoy better all what this magic land has to offer. And if they want to learn more about the culture of this friendly people, they can try out some other resorts in this country. Hotels settled on splendid beaches offer everywhere great accommodation and holidays in Cyprus are excellent in any part of the island!

More information about accommodation and holidays in Cyprus can be found on Cyprus Holidays and Hotels in Cyprus. This article belongs to Victor Tuszing.

Toilet Wall Damage

Fiber-Cement Siding Compared to Vinyl Siding

In the world of remodeling the exterior of your home, there are several things to consider when comparing fiber-cement siding to vinyl siding.

Disguising the Problem

Vinyl siding is sometimes used as a cover-up to be placed over the old damaged cladding. The current problems may still exist. Sometimes it may be improperly installed. This invites insects and moisture to build up behind the panels, and may even go through the structure of the home.

Flammable

Vinyl facing may melt or burn if it too close to a heat source such as your grill or a close by fire. The flammability of the cladding is such a concern that some counties/districts are starting to educate homeowners about its natural flammability.

Fiber-cement facing is non-combustible when exposed to significant amount of heat or flame. It has been appreciated for this safety feature. It is also approved for fire-rated structure.
Fading

All colors fade from the sun and there are several options that you can do to replace vinyl cladding. You can install a replacement piece and try to find the matching color of your original siding. You can also replace all the cladding again if you can't find the matching color. You may also paint the facing, but keep in mind this type of facing is made to expand and contract which will cause the paint to chip and peel over time.

Fiber-cement facing can be painted any color that you desire. It will also remain longer than with wood. It won't crack and peel as quickly as vinyl.

Warranty

Always look at the warranty before your purchase. Look closely at the "Life-Time" to see how many years the warranty really covers and also what is covered. Check the "Normal Weathering" section to see what their definition is of normal weathering.

Fiber-cement facing may be found to have a 50 year transferable limited product warranty, and a 15 year finish warranty. This warranty is good for even the most sever climates.

Poor Quality and Aesthetics

Vinyl siding may not look as natural as wood. It has overlapping seams and fake wood grains that try to copy the appearance of wood.

Fiber-cement siding has the beauty of real wood with the ability to be painted any color and not have the chipping and peeling of vinyl or wood. There are no overlapping seams to take away from the natural appearance it will lend to the home.

Weather Resistant

Fiber-cement cladding is a very durable product that can even withstand the most severe climates. It will not go brittle in the cold or be damaged by flying debris like the other type of cladding is known to do.
Thickness

The great amount of thickness that accompanies fiber-cement cladding adds to the products strength that provides impact resistance from wind or hail.

The finest vinyl siding is only 5/100th inch thick.

These are several things you need to consider when investing in the exterior of your home. In the long run, having fiber-cement siding is aesthetically and financially more sound than having vinyl siding which is an inferior product.

Mr. Oliver is a marketing agent of Blue Ridge Exteriors. The siding contractor provides James Hardie Siding throughout the Richmond Virginia area. For more information on their James Hardie Siding please visit their website.

Family Room Pop Out Ceiling

Install Kitchen Cabinets - House Remodeling Ideas

One of the best ways to economize on your kitchen project cabinets, thank about installing on your own.

If you have the correct hardware with some strategic planning, the procedure is really quite simple.

You will need to make up a plan to successfully attack the installation of you your kitchen cabinet with a friend or partner, though, because it's very difficult to position those cabinets alone.

Continue to study this to learn the information about how to easily install kitchen cabinets by yourself!

* Before anything else, assemble the cabinets employing the instructions that accompanied them.

* Employ a pencil to lightly mark the cabinet positioning. Insure that they will be level and will not interfere with your electrical outlets, will permit you to use your current plumbing, and things if this nature. How dreadful would it be if you found when your installation was complete you determine that your sink doesn't fit..

* It does not matter hardly at all, you can choose to install the wall or the floor units first. Included instructions direct you need to install the units of the floor first, however if you are more comfortable you can do it the other way around.

* Employ a stud locator to find the studs for each cabinet. Make certain to fasten the cabinets to the studs, and use cabinet screws instead of using drywall screws. Drywall screws just can't cope with the weight of kitchen cabinets.

* Bore guide holes. This prevents your cabinets from splitting and results in the cleanest joins.

* Fasten the cabinets to the wall studs employing a cabinet screw at the top and bottom of the cabinet unit. For sturdier cabinets, it's a very good idea additional to screws to buttress the weight.

* Examine each cabinet to make sure that it's level before securing it to anything. It could be necessary to add filler material like wood slats or tile underlayment beneath the units to insure your cabinet's level.

* Set the corner cabinets first, since it will be impossible to move the wall if you end up with less space than anticipated! Subsequently install the other units around them. If you have voids between the units or need to adjust one down to allow for the wiring or plumbing, place a wood panel in-between the units.

* When you're ready to install non-corner units, it would be a important idea to fasten them together, and then attach them to the wall. This assures that the front panels are flat and flush with each other.

* In the case of wall units, the procedure is nearly the same, however if you have really sturdy ones, you will most likely need to employ wood pieces called "shims" beneath them to help underpin the bulk.

* You may choose to employ a friend or partner to help hold up the cabinets, however if you followed the suggestion to connect your cabinets into a row before you put them up, it's going to be difficult to handle all that bulk. Experiment with stacking buckets or paint cans beneath the units to assist in keeping them up there. You should still to have your helper hold tightly; it would be really despicable if they fell over and were blemished or fractured

* Once you have got all of the screws into place, you will need to carefully remove the supports.

Complete Renovations | Home Improvement Loan | Home Decorating | Kitchen Backsplash | Public Designs

Interior Window Framing

Space Saving Tips For Small Bathrooms

It's essential to get the most space out of your bathroom as most bathrooms do contain limited space for such objects in the average house hold. It's not a physical space saving tip to use light colors when painting or decorating a bathroom, but in the sense of lighting and feeling it really does provide a bigger atmosphere so this tip should be used in a small bathroom.

Lighting in a small bathroom is very important and is the best way to make you and others feel like they are in a spacious room rather than a dingy dark one. Options include spotlights from cabinets and the ceiling which provide phenomenal lighting in any room without using up any space as they are implemented. Curtains sometimes get in the way and make a room feel darker, so replacing them with blinds will give you that natural lighting effect you want with the same amount of privacy.

In terms of physical space saving options it's a good idea to use wall hanging objects such as mirror cabinets and towel holders so you not only have all that extra space on the floor but you get that extra storage option available. Another good tip is to purchase a bathroom set that can be implemented into corners of a bathroom and hide pipes that no one wants to see.

Most families include a bath and a shower in their bathroom if they have a big enough room - but this isn't always possible in the average house hold unless it feels really cramped. If you want a bath and a shower it's still possible by purchasing a shower that fits on the wall above the bath. This shower also normally includes a glass enclosure attached to the side protecting the bathroom from being covered in water.

The possibilities for creating that extra needed space are endless but the main tips for doing so would be keeping the bathroom simple and clean, having a simplistic effect automatically gives the spacious illusion to visitors. Having a couple of mirrors around the room is also a good technique - but not too many as this will over do it.

Written by James Chapman, a director of Bella Bathrooms who supply Small Bathrooms for the UK market.

Bella Bathrooms is an online retailer formed by 2 plumbers from the North East of England. Having hands on experience of custom bathroom installation and products has enabled Bella Bathrooms Ltd to only select quality bathroom products for their online shop. They sell bathroom furniture, bathroom suites, showers and bath related products for consumers through the United Kingdom.

Architecture Books
Wood Stoves Books

Proven Small Bathroom Decorating Ideas

Are you looking for small bathroom decorating ideas? If so you are not alone. People spend a lot of time and money decorating the public areas of their house. They will spend years searching for just the right couch for the living room or thousands on decorative pots and pans for the kitchen. Have you ever given a thought to your bathrooms? Everyone spends time in their bathrooms daily, is yours decorated? Or is it just a towel and a toothbrush? Make yours an oasis with our small bathroom decorating ideas.

Decorating will help you make every trip into your bathroom a pleasant and relaxing trip. A decorated bathroom also shows your friends and family that you care about your entire house, not just the "public" areas. Carry a theme throughout the decorating in your house and you will look very creative to your guests without having to create new ideas for each room. Using the same theme and colors to decorate in the bathroom allows you to design one coherent space and will give you a sense of home no matter what room of your house you are in.

If you are stuck for small bathroom decorating ideas, start by looking at the colors and ideas you have used for other rooms. You have probably spent a lot of time thinking about the design and decorations you use in your house so there is no need to redo that work when you start decorating your bathroom. If you have extra furniture from decorating your house and have room in your bathroom try the furniture out, you may be surprised that it fits and that it looks great. Bathrooms are also a great place for family pictures that you simply do not have any other wall space for. Your local frame shop can assist in creating a frame for your pictures if you are afraid of water and steam damage but most people do not have any water damage on their pictures from being hung in the bathroom.

If you haven't started decorating or designing your house, you may find that working on your small bathroom decorating ideas first is a great place to start. Decorating the bathroom first is great because the smaller space makes decorating fast and easy. You can also try out your decorating ideas in your bathroom to avoid spending a lot of money on an idea you want to try out but are not sure you will like long term. Have you ever wanted to paint a wall orange? Try it in the bathroom first.

Once your done decorating the small bathroom you will have a great sense of pride and you can take ideas you came up for your bathroom and carry them over to the other rooms in your house. Did you tile the sink? Use the same tile in the kitchen to save money. After you have completed the decorating of your small bathroom you will start to discover that new decorating ideas never stop popping into your head. After all spending some much time in a room that you just finished decorating is inspirational.

It does not have to be difficult to come up with small bathroom ideas. Make the most of your ideas and you will have a great looking bathroom you can be proud of.

Learn more about small bathroom decorating ideas quickly and easily by visiting http://www.lakemarybusinessdirectory.com a very popular website that provides resources, articles, consumer information and business reviews.

Structural Engineering Books
Home Skylight Books

The Bible's Power Over One Child

I mentioned Sean in another one of my articles, the story of a young foster boy that we were taking care of. Sean's father was my ex-wife's uncle, and they were going through some tough times for a while and their three children ended up as wards of the state. We eventually ended up taking the oldest child because he was the hardest one to place and another home. His brother and sister ended up with a family that wanted to adopt them and eventually Sean went to live with them and I believe all three of them were adopted by this family. I don't know this for a fact though.

Sean was a emotionally damaged child. His parents would punish him with some strange and bizarre punishments. They weren't really physical punishments but seemed to leave the emotional scars on him and I often think about where he is and what he is doing.

We watched him for about a year and I learned quite a bit from this young man. He was in the third grade but was still at the first grade level for reading and math. I would spend a couple of hours each night during the week helping him with his schoolwork, I seem to have created some sort of allusion that I would be able to bring him up to the third grade level within a short period of time. Wrong. He must've had learning disabilities and of course I don't think I was that good teacher.

Sean was easy going, polite and extremely obedient. He would do anything to avoid getting in trouble and often blamed others for his mistakes. His punishments must have been more than he could bear before he arrived at our home. I think you're getting the picture about what kind of a child Sean was.

One day I found myself in a dilemma with Sean, I couldn't get him to tell me the truth, even though I knew he was lying. I forget what the problem was but I remember a hollow look in his face. It was almost like he wasn't really there. It was almost like he was just doing time, sitting on the bed, listening to me asking the same question over and over again, "Sean are you lying", but he wasn't even paying attention.

I normally would not punish my children for accidents, and never tolerated lying. I was trying to explain to him that he wasn't going to get in trouble, I just wanted to know the truth. He wasn't budging at all and stuck to his story. I remembered that his mother and father were Catholics and feared the church, almost as much as they loved it.

That's what I came up with my evil plan. I don't know where I come up with these ideas, but every once in a while one pops up in my head and I run with it.

I told Sean that I was going to bring the Holy Bible in, and if he could swear on the Bible that he was telling the truth, I would accept that and this would be the end of our conversation. I couldn't believe my eyes, as he started crying and screaming, frantically and excitedly as a yelled out, I did it, I did it, don't bring the Bible in, I won't do it again.

I couldn't believe that was all it took to get information from him. I have always been a pretty good interrogator and found myself gathering information from those people easily, but this was amazing. His fear of the Holy Bible got me thinking about how powerful this book actually is to some people. I remember when I looked upon this book, pretty much the same as Sean did.

It's just a book, like any other book. It's not made at a holy factory or a secret monastery in the Swiss Alps somewhere, it's made from paper and ink and can be damaged and destroyed like other books. I would be surprised if I threw the Bible into the fire, that it wouldn't burn. I would be even more surprised, if I seen three men standing in the fire, wait a minute that's another story in the Bible.

Is it possible for this book to actually control the lives of people. It seemed to control Sean, I wonder if I, could have actually been driving a nail home that his parents started. Could I have added to his belief, that the Bible is a book from God the creator of everything.

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development.

Greg is currently working on a video library filled with great movies on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion. Simple Words Create Powerful Beliefs.

Wave And Flood Home Damage

Dog Creates Remodeling Nightmare

How many homeowners normally leave their dog in the backyard or they have full time access to the backyard through a doggie door. You're probably wondering how can a little dog create a remodeling nightmare for any contractor.

This wasn't the case this dog was a large Labrador retriever and tore up everything in the backyard constantly. The house remodel we were working on was a two story room addition over a single story house. This job lasted around six months and the dog was a daily reminder of how much attention a large dog actually needs.

Let's start with the first item of value the dog actually destroyed. It was my favorite tool bags of course that I have taken care of for over five years and deeply appreciated the fact that they were broke in just the way I wanted them to be. Kind of like a baseball mitt that doesn't quite fit right because of how stiff it is until you break it in.

While the homeowner of course apologized and never even offered to replace them. Oh but after that he did mention never to leave anything lying around in the backyard. Lesson learned of course and never forgotten. Well to make a long story short this large dog could chew up tools, lumber, plumbing pipes, electrical wire and was even able to destroyed the plywood fencing we would use to keep him away.

I'm going to stop right there with the remodeling nightmare created from this dog in hopes that other contractors can learn from my valuable lesson. As a contractor you should never assume that a homeowner will replace any damaged or broken tools and materials.

As a homeowner with a dog reading this article, think about having a place to enclose the dog if necessary while remodeling work is done on your home.

I love being around dogs and other animals but sometimes a problem like this can make life extremely miserable for both parties.

Greg Vanden Berge has been building and remodeling for over 30 years and his information has proven valuable to most contractors and homeowners all over the world. He usually tries to write at least two articles a day on home improvement or remodeling problems.

Greg is in the process right now of working on a home inspection website that will revolutionize the home inspection business. He is also working on a book to help homeowners and contractors as well as other home related professions in dealing with the home inspection process.

You can visit the home inspection website currently under construction at Home Inspection Help

Wet Carpeting In Hallway

How To Make Your Kitchen Cozy

When you shape the kitchen interior, the greatest problems are connected with drawbacks of planning and lack of space. Appropriately chosen kitchen furniture can resolve this situation, even more so that variety of models gives such an opportunity. The main thing is to imagine how your own kitchen acts out, i.e. even on the stage of planning you are to foresee conformity of all objects and their sizes. Believe us, this will greatly facilitate the whole process, up to setting the last shelf in the dresser.

So, you have already made up the list of all kitchen equipment with indication of its size. Now pay attention to technical details, such as dimensions and location of the ventilation, pipes, wiring, sockets, flexible (gas, water-supply) hoses etc. Enter all necessary stuffing in your list and you can set off for the shop to make your choice. If you are going to buy all elements of kitchen interior separately, dont forget that the standard depth of household appliances is 600 mm, so check in advance the parameters of the things you need.

The dominant is high storage cabinets for storing foodstuffs and high cabinets for storing inventory (brushes, brooms etc). It is necessary to remember that they should not break off the work surface and they should not be located on the outskirts of your kitchen field. If you prefer an inbuilt grill or oven, it is the high storage cabinet that will accommodate them without breaking the uniformity. Besides you can pick up the height of their location, so that it is convenient for you.

Now lets touch upon on-floor cabinets. They are the basis of your workspace, their height directly affects the extent of your hands fatigue after cooking food, a great amount of drawers on rollers can help simplify reaching out for any object of kitchen interior that you need at the moment. We advise that you plan the space of on-floor cabinets in such a way, that the most frequently used objects could be easily accessed (pullout rotating shelves), while the rarely used dishware can be placed on the ordinary shelves.
A detail: trays and baking sheets can be conveniently settled in the plinth case under the on-floor table, which in fact, can have any width, depending on your requirements. If the height of the on-floor cabinet (preparation table) is not convenient for you, the plinth will add several centimeters, necessary for your accommodation and will relieve your hands and back of overstrain. Important: it is extremely comfortable to work while sitting, so if you decided to bring in something new to the interior and give yourself a treat, plan a pullout shelf under one of cabinets of work surface or get a high (bar) stool.

Overhead cabinets are to be located not less than 450 mm from the work surface, it is necessary, in order to accommodate freely all used electrical appliances (a food processor, a coffee-machine, a toaster etc). The height of standard cabinets is 600 mm, perforce you can buy 900-mm cabinets. They will exactly reach the ceiling in typical flats. Even if after all this, there are some things left and there is some vacant space on top, we finish the composition by entresol shelves up to the ceiling (open or closed ones) or a cornice with inbuilt lamps. Corner wall-mounted cabinets have either open shelves, or a folding door, which makes all the contents visible; the rotating shelf is remarkable for its capacity and convenience.
The distance between the work surface and overhead cabinets is called the apron. With regard to the work surface the main thing for the apron is to be in harmony with it as to colour and texture. For instance, a glossy table top and glazed tiles, mat colour of the work surface and mat apron (covered with mat washable wallpapers or imitation of tiles).

Such attention to the image of the apron is connected with the fact that it should protect the wall from dirtying, for example, from grease that can be easily washed off. The work surface is often overloaded with objects and their abundance induces the feeling of discomfort. We will free it with the help of the apron. Lets fix the microwave oven on brackets, arrange the parade of species on the miniature shelves and place the small metal items and knives on the magnetic panel. One more nuance: the decorative nook (plinth), made of water-resistant materials, will protect the back surfaces of on-floor cabinets from ingress of moisture.

When you place standard furniture, there may be narrow gaps between separate elements or between the furniture and the wall. Use them put a narrow shelf or a table in this gap. For example, a movable table will increase the active surface and will be used as a serving table.
A narrow socle will prove useful for storing preparation plates, towels, bottles. Select the same materials for these inbuilt constructions as those used for main furniture. Kitchen furniture made from natural hard wood (oak, cherry, beech, nut-tree) and work surface from granite and marble look impressive and respectable.

Ultramodern directions of finishing are represented by metal surfaces (stainless steel, aluminum) and heat-resistant glass. Inexpensive surfaces can be made of laminated plastic, ceramic tiles, plastic. All these materials are rather practical and differ in the ways of installation and operation: laminated plastics is deformed by high temperatures, the tiles can crack as a result of unsuccessful landing of a heavy pan, plastic is vulnerable to scratches, but in contrast to laminated plastic it withstands high temperature almost without deformation. No kitchen can do without silent assistants, such as a gas cooker, refrigerator, sink. Selection of equipment depends only on you. When the kitchen is small, the equipment and sink are to be compact.

There are sinks of various shapes and dimensions; in our opinion, it is better to select a round sink made from stainless steel. It is smaller than the square one, yet everyone, who has ever used a round sink, will agree that it is more convenient for washing and cleaning, and besides it has a more aesthetic look.
It is very convenient, if the sink has additional ribbed trays for drying dishware, the water then does not spill on the surface of the table top and gradually trickles down to the sink. There are models, where the sink is combined with a drying apparatus, but if you have a dishwasher, you can do without a drying apparatus. Instead, choose a sink with two additional compartments for wetting cutlery and rinsing washed dishware. The drawback of the combined multisection sink is that it takes up too much space. If you have some room, buy a wider 800-mm table top instead of a standard 600-mm one. Then the part of the table top that adjoins the wall can be lifted for 15-20 mm and you will have a convenient shelf. Besides under the table top you can have a special cavity 20 cm deep that will allow you to conceal drainage equipment. As a result, we get additional space under the sink, where you can put a dishwasher and arrange shelves for cleaners on the remaining space.

The main principle of placing the sink is convenience. It should not be located far from the gas cooker and be connected with it via a common work surface. If the kitchen is small and you planned it as a single line (please refer to the previous article), place the sink in the center, and refrigerator and the gas cooker on each side. A sink in the corner looks good in a big kitchen. The main advantage is economy of space. It is possible to plan a kitchen island; in this case the sink perfectly fits into the center of the composition.
One more must of the kitchen interior is the gas cooker. Modern cookers with burners and an oven have the same height as the furniture, that is why there are no problems with breaking off the sole horizontal work surface. Nevertheless, if the cooker does not match this parameter, it is preferable to choose models with a flap that closes the burners, when food has been cooked.

Inbuilt kitchen equipment is more expensive, yet more convenient. You can use any combination of equipment at your discretion. This principle is called domino. The basic modules are gas and electric burners, an oven, a cooking panel. Delicatessen-lovers will install a grill, a deep-fryer, a steamer, a brazier. You are absolutely free in the flight of your fancy and can endlessly enrich your arsenal of kitchen innovations. Work with inbuilt models is practical, because you use minimum dishware and have maximum pleasure from cooking. Also important is the fact that cooker hoods are inbuilt as well, they absorb smoke and soot in the horizontal, but not vertical direction. A substantial drawback that prevents many people from buying inbuilt equipment is its high price.

A small fridge, as well as the washing machine, can be put under the work surface. If you need a big fridge, dont forget about the law of non-breaking off the work surface, when you place it.
So, you have taken care about all kitchen components, and in conclusion add to the interior some personal charm, because its face should reflect the traits of your personality.

Your imagination will prompt what elements of dcor are relevant in your interior, these can be flowers, paintings, porcelain collections or just cute trifles. The designers of the best repair and construction companies will help you orientate in the endless variety of kitchen furniture and household appliances. With their help your kitchen will be not only convenient and cozy, but will also become a unique reflection of your personality.

Arthur Prudent is a developer of London builders: kitchen, bathroom renovation - web site offering all aspects of builders services. Find Home Improvement articles at "Useful Tips"

Drywall Backing In Ceiling