Outdoor Cedar Patio Furniture Goes Indoors!

It would be obvious to assume that the sudden boom in Patio Furniture  sales was due to the hot new trend of building "Outdoor Rooms" that  originated on popular Home and Garden TV shows and in Outdoor Decor  Magazines. But there's another less obvious explanation as well. Patio  Furniture peices like the Garden Bench, Porch Rocker, Athena Adirondack  Chair, Classic Adirondack Chair, Adirondack Loveseat, and Picnic Table  are more and more being adapted for use indoors, particularly in  Cottages and Cabins.

Perhaps the most versatile indoor/outdoor  peice is the Garden Bench. The Garden Bench has long ago been adapted  for use in cottage entranceways near the hat and coat rack. And more  recently, there is a trend towards dressing up Garden Benches for use in  Cottage sitting rooms using painting and stenciling techniques and  adding designer pillows.

Similarly, Porch Rockers are being used  inside Cabins and Cottages. Though many people choose to stain or paint  their Rockers, many designers are recommending that you leave them  unfinished for an indoor rustic look as the Cedar wood ages naturally. READ MORE..

Interior Decorating With Picture Frames

There are many ways to decorate the interior of your home, none the  least of which is with picture frames. Picture frames have the unique  ability to personalize a house in more ways than one. You can share with  friends, family and visitors your memories and cherished moments.

There are literally dozens of different picture frames to choose from including:

Collage picture frames
Digital picture frames
Magnetic picture frames
Shadow boxes
Wholesale picture frames

You  don't have to spend a fortune to decorate your home using picture  frames. In fact cheap picture frames or discount picture frames look  just as classy and elegant as expensive ones. One thing you do need to  do before decorating your home however is stock up on picture framing  supplies. Be sure you get any matte, mounting equipment and other items  you need so you can do your decorating in one fell swoop.

Steps For Decorating Your Home

There  are several steps you can follow to ensure your decorating goes well.  Here are a few tips for saving time and decorating efficiently: READ MORE..

Bedroom Furniture

Buying bedroom furniture can be an exciting time; unfortunately if  you have not shopped for bedroom furniture in awhile or this is your  first time to buy bedroom furniture on your own you may not be well  versed in the many different kinds of bedroom furniture available.

Confusion  about bedroom furniture often arises in the different sizes of beds and  mattresses available. The twin or single bed is about the smallest type  of bed on the market and while manufacturers differ in the sizes  slightly, the standard twin or single size bed measures 39" x 74." If  you need a twin or single bed that is slightly wider and longer you  might consider the size known as the super single; which measures 48" x  84." The old fashioned or full bed also known as the double bed is  measured at 54" x 74". This is the kind of bed that you commonly see in  standard hotel rooms. A queen size bed measures at 60" x 70" although  you can purchase what is known as the California queen bed, a size that  comes in longer than the regular queen bed at 60" x 84." The next size  up in bedroom furniture is the king size bed measuring 76" x 80" while  the California king size bed measures 70" x 84." READ MORE..

Caring for Your Wood Furniture

There is nothing like wood furniture to add elegance and beauty to a  home. Whether it is a thick, all-natural butchers block table, an Art  Deco wooden dresser, a simple mahogany dining room table or a sleek,  modern coffee table, wood furniture is a staple in homes across America  and the world. Make sure your wood tables, vanities and dressers stay  gorgeous for generations to come with these simple solutions and  guidelines.

Stain, Stain, Go Away!

Ever gasped after a child  inadvertently left a giant scratch in the surface of your dining room  table? Or cringed when a well-meaning adult accidentally knocked over a  drink onto your beautiful wood coffee table? Well, fear not. One of the  best attributes of wood furniture is that it is simple to touch up or  renew its original luster.

Small nicks and scratches can usually  be disguised with the help of a store-bought scratch cover product. For  larger scratches, try using a felt tip pen or shoe polish in a color  closely matched to the finish of the furniture piece. Shoe polish  applicator bottles filled with the stain work well for the cover-up job,  as do Sharpie markers. Coloring in the scratch is easy and surprisingly  effective. READ MORE..

Decorating a Romantic Room

Creating intimacy in a room is about finding a mixture of elements  that combine in such a way that they make both you and your partner feel  comfortable and close. Some of these elements include lighting, color,  decoration, and furniture. In order to develop a truly romantic space,  you will have to experiment with different ideas, always paying close  attention to your most subtle subconscious preferences and dislikes.  Your goal is to find a design that makes you feel both relaxed and sexy.  In this way you yourself will reinforce the intimate nature of the  room, by the air you give off when you enter it. Others will pick up on  this, and instantly feel at least some of the effect you are trying to  achieve.

If you have a significant other, you will want to  incorporate their taste and feedback into the planning of the room. It  is ok to occasionally spring a sexy surprise by redesigning the bedroom,  but you have to be prepared for the eventuality that they are not going  to be inspired by what you have done. Worse, the redesign may even make  them uncomfortable. This is not a rejection of you, simply a matter of  taste, and should only inspire you to work with them to achieve a room  you both feel good in. READ MORE..

Tips for Taking Care of Fine Wood Furniture

Now that you have purchased some fine wood furniture, it is important  to take proper care of it. With some basic care, your fine furniture  can last for years, and stay just as beautiful as the day you bought it.   Below are some tips on taking proper care of wood furniture.

1. Wood Furniture Care

Proper  care of wood furniture is essential if you want it to last.  Keeping it  out of direct sunlight will keep the wood finish from fading out.

Even  though many pieces of new wood furniture come with finishes that are  resistant to sunlight, it is still possible for them to fade if exposed  to the sun for extended periods of time. You may wish to close the  drapes or blinds in rooms containing this furniture during certain parts  of the day to keep the direct sunlight off.

Keeping wood  furniture dry is also essential. If the wood gets wet, it can cause the  finish to peel or fade, and can actually warp the wood.  Be sure to wipe  up any spills as soon as you are able.  Do not let them dry or you may  end up with a permanent stain. READ MORE..

Great Tips for Choosing Furniture

You're finally going to do it!  No I don't mean tie the knot, I mean  your finally ready to buy that new furniture you've been dreaming about.   We adorn our bodies with fashion which makes a statement about who we  are.  Your furniture does exactly the same thing for your house.  It's  your fashion statement for your home.

Here's some helpful tips on  getting the most value for your money, and choosing furniture that will  work with your home and your lifestyle.  You're friends will be green  with envy when they see your new look.

First you need to know the  size of the rooms you are going to be furnishing, right down to windows,  and walls that might not work well.  You can either purchase a piece of  software that will help you design a cozy room or grab a pencil and  paper and start sketching.  If you have any original pieces you are  keeping, then make sure to work them into your room plan.

Once  you've decided what would look good where, and how large of furniture  you can purchase, you need to set your budget.  Decide how much money  you are willing to part with and stick to it. READ MORE..

Childrens Furniture

Children's bedroom furniture and nursery furniture can help turn a  bland and boring bedroom into a fun and cozy retreat. Since there is a  wide range of designs and materials available, you can find the perfect  children's furniture for your child's bedroom, whether you prefer a  whimsical decorating style or practical, sturdy pieces.

If you are  shopping for furniture for your infant's nursery for the first time,  you may be surprised by the many types of furniture available. You can  buy a few pieces to tuck into a corner of an older sibling's bedroom or  you can shop for entire sets so that you can create a comfortable,  furnished nursery.

Cribs are usually the first piece of nursery  furniture parents shop for. These versatile baby beds come in  traditional Jenny Lind designs or more modern styles. Some of them can  be converted to toddler beds for added value. Designer cribs are  available in a wide range of designs. You can even find round cribs  instead of traditional rectangular cribs. However, don't forget to take a  look at bassinets, cots, cradles, and Moses baskets, as well. These  smaller beds are perfect for newborn infants, since parents can easily  move them from room to room. READ MORE..

Decorating Your Kitchen With Antique Plates

Antique plates can add whimsy and interest to your décor. Many people  hang them right on the walls for a unique look. You can hang them up on  special holders made just for this or use ribbons to hold them and hang  from fancy hooks. Learning how to arrange your plates so that they look  best is key to making them a successful part of your wall décor.

Lets  say you have a beautiful antique platter that will go perfect in your  kitchen.  You run out to the store and get a hanging bracket, insert the  plate and hang it on the wall over the server.  Instant charm!

Pleased  with your accomplishemnt you stand back. You tip your head to one side  and then the other. Squinting, you take another look at the plate.  Something doesn't look right.

If you have ever found yourself  dissatisfied with the appearance of the decorations on your walls you  are not alone. Many people make the same common mistakes that the eye  can read as awkward but the individual does not know how to fix. Here  are some guidelines to keep in mind when arranging your plates as well  decor:  READ MORE..

Using Vintage Hankies To Decorate The Bedroom

Vintage hankies can make interesting wall décor! These treasures of  yesteryear are beautifully made with lace and stamped patterns. Have  them framed in vintage style frames for a striking effect. Frame them  either folded in a corner or fully extended depending on the pattern.  Hanging them on your walls can be easy if you follow the tips below.

You  can use flea market finds or hankies that belonged to your grandmother,  but either way you'll need to set them up in a nice frame.  Once you  have done that, pick a spot that needs decorating and hang up your new  artwork.

Stand back and take a good look.  Does it look great or is there something just not right about it?

There  are a few common errors that are made while hanging and arranging items  on a wall. These errors look awkward to the eye, but you cannot put a  finger on exactly what is wrong or how to fix it. Use the guidelines  below when arranging hankies on a wall:

Hanging Large Pieces:

Hankies  in large frames can be the focus of your décor so you must make sure  you hang them in a spot that is appropriate for the size and focus.  Where is the best spot to hang large décor? Try over the bed if you  don't have a headboard, behind the couch, over a fireplace or on a  feature wall. A feature wall is where the placement of furniture or the  layout of the home naturally guides the eye to a wall - a great place to  feature hankies. READ MORE..

How to Choose a Sofa for a Family with Kids

If you have children in your home, what sort of sofa should you choose?
With  kids in the house, you probably need more seats. A 1 seated sofa is  notas cost effective as a 3 seated sofa. You need 3 single seated sofa  to seat 3people as compared to just a 3-seater. The price of 3  single-seated sofa issignificantly less than the price of a 3 seated  sofa.
That means, for a large family, you would save substantially  if you go forthe 3 seated sofas as compared to several 2 or 1 seated  sofas.
One way to see the best value is to calculate cost per seat of thatsofa.
For a single seat, the cost per seat is just the price.
For a 2-seated sofa, the cost per seat would be price divided by 2
For a 3 seated sofa, the cost per seat would be price divided by 3and so on. READ MORE..

Kitchen Island Ideas for Great Custom Kitchen Islands

Use kitchen island ideas to better understand how to create a more  functional and comfortable kitchen.  Using custom kitchen islands means  having the most appropriate island for your home and kitchen area based  on your kitchen space and your needs.  Kitchen island ideas take us back  to the farmhouse kitchen, even back to medieval times when a large  worktable was used to do most of the preparation work.
Besides  meal preparation, the kitchen can become a gathering area for family and  friends if there is enough space.  Since so much happens in the kitchen  on a regular basis, getting the layout right is important.  The kitchen  island can serve as an additional eating area, and food preparation can  easily be done there.  In a large kitchen, the kitchen island can  shorten the distances within the working triangle (sink, refrigerator  and range or cooktop) and make it more efficient. READ MORE..

Want a Beautiful Limestone Floor but Worried About The Maintenance? Read On

Limestone is a type of sedimentary rock. It is chemically made up of  the mineral calcite (calcium carbonate). Limestone is formed by the  deposition of calcium carbonate on the floors of water bodies. Limestone  is one the most widely known form of sedimentary rocks comprising about  10% of the sedimentary rocks.
The colour of pure limestone is  white or almost white. But you would find that various limestone's  generally exhibit different colours because of the presence of  impurities such as clay, sand, organic remains, iron oxides etc. It is  more prominent on weathered surfaces. Limestone's are also found in  varied forms because of the difference in the way it has been formed.  So, you may get limestone's that are crystalline, elastic, granular or  dense.
Limestone finds wide-spread application in the construction sector.
You  would find Limestone being used in architecture. Its ready availability  and the versatility of the rock that allows it to be easily cut into  blocks or more elaborate carvings make it very desirable for architects.  It is also very durable and generally remains unaffected by exposure.  The flip side is that it is very heavy and that's why it is practically  not possible to use it in tall buildings. Its cost is another  detrimental factor. You would find that limestone used in humid climate  remains unaffected, but it is very much vulnerable to acids. If a  limestone structure is situated at a place where acid rain is frequent,  you would find that the limestone undergoes heavy weathering destroying  its beauty and shape. READ MORE..

A Place For Everything In Your Home

Are there homeless items living in your home? If you're likemost  families, you have countless bits and pieces lackingdesignated spaces,  so the homeless items are left lying on thenearest shelf or countertop.
After  awhile all the little items without a home begin toaccumulate, causing  clutter and chaos in your household.Without a specific place for  everything, your level ofdiscomfort may increase because when you need  one of thesefloating items you will not know exactly where to go to  findit. Talk about stressful!
How do you combat the urge to throw  your stuff on the kitchentable and decide to put it away later? First of  all, stoptelling yourself that you'll 'Get to it later.' For  mostpeople, later means 'When I can no longer see the table top andhave  to eat dinner on top of a pile of newspapers.' Unlessyou're one of the  blessed few who weren't born with the 'do itlater gene' you know how  quickly the mess can pile up and howuncomfortable the resulting feeling  can be. Your home becomes acluttered mess, less than welcoming place to  hang out.
When was the last time you were searching frantically  for yourcheckbook only to find it well hidden underneath a stack ofjunk  mail? What about the universal search for the illusive carkeys? How many  jobs were ultimately lost because the key searchwent on for thirty  minutes or more on a daily basis? Thesolution is simple really. Every  item in your home needs itsown 'place to be.' READ MORE..

Beach Theme Bedroom

Using accessories is a fun way to accent your bedroom for a beach  theme.  You will find that you can dramatically change the look of your  room simply by making small changes with the accents.  See how easy it  is to get a designer beach theme look in your bedroom without shelling  out the big bucks.
If you're not sure exactly what you want in  your beach desing, try looking in decorating magazines and books to get a  flavor of the accessories you would like to see in your bedroom. For  keeping the beach look consistent, you'll have to limit yourself to only  purchase the accessories that match your theme.
Colors for a  beach décor should make you think of the beach. Light and breezy with  lots of blues and maybe even some yellows. If you prefer neutral tones  think of the beige of beach sand and the color of shells.
Incorporate  sea shells, ocean prints, and other seaside accents that will help  bring out the beach in your bedroom. You should group your accessories  in odd numbers.  It always looks nice if your groupings consists of tall  and short accessories mixed together. An interesting group of accents  might consists of some shells aside a nice beach theme frame and a  taller lamp. READ MORE..

Decorating Your Kitchen With Accessories

Just like a nice outfit, your kitchen can benefit from accessories!   If you are thinking about redecorating but don't have a lot of dough to  put into your kitchen, try simply adding some accessories in a matching  theme or color and see how it transforms the room!
Now before you  rush out to the store, you should probably decide what sort of theme you  are going for.  Do you want the look of old Italy?  How about a cottage  theme?  Why not try a country style kitchen? You will want to buy  different accessories depending on the theme you choose.
If you  can't quite put your finger on exactly what you want,  look in magazines  and decorating books or surf the internet to get a flavor of the  accessories you would like to see in your kitchen. Once you have found a  style you like, you can purchase accessories close to those you see in  the magazine or book.  Color choices, of course, should compliment the  main color in the room.
Sometimes, you can just rearrange the  accessories you already have to create a whole different look. It is  recommended to group your accessories in odd numbers rather than even  numbers. Different heights and textures are also attractive. READ MORE..

Summer Decorating Tips To Cool You

Redesigning your home for summer gives you the opportunity to have  fun with your home. A few simple changes can make your home feel  refreshed as well as refreshing.
Make your home feel fresh and cooler with these interior design ideas:
[B]Welcome to Our Haven[/B]
Start  with your exterior to instill the image of a cooling retreat. Provide  shade to your front door. If you don't have sheltering trees, add  umbrellas in heavy pots to shade the entry landing. A wall water  fountain near the front door adds cooling sounds to support your sense  of hearing. You can make a standing water fountain with a small pump, a  container with no drainage, a water plant like the common reed, and  pebbles. Deep shade and water sounds invite you to linger outdoors while  promising further respite inside.
[B]Cool Down With Lighting[/B]
Yes,  the color of light influences the way you feel. Use white and blue  iridescent accent lights. Change out your yellow-casting light bulbs  with cooler daylight-mimicking light bulbs. Look for bulbs that simulate  natural daylight, the healthiest light source for the human eye, with  reduced eyestrain. Soften your room lighting at twilight with more light  sources instead of a few bright lights.

READ MORE..

How to Select an Interior Designer

Selecting an interior designer is the most important decision that  you can make before investing a lot in a home decorating project.  Assuming you can afford the services of an interior designer, you have  many choices of designers available. How do you go about selecting an  interior designer? If you have the time to go through an interview  process, this is the best way.
Get three different recommendations  for good interior designers that belong to the American Society of  Interior Designers. Then ask each one of the three designers if they  would do a free consultation with you about the space you are working  with. Take good notes during the consultation, not only about their  design ideas, but also other factors including cost, how they relate to  you, and whether you think their sense of style is compatible with  yours.
Once you have had a consultation with each interior  designer, carefully go over your notes. Also, if they have any online  portfolios of their previous work, spend some time looking at those.  Which designer is the best fit for your room? Don't assume that a  designer with a distinctly modern edge to their work will be able to  change their stripes for your ultra-traditional project unless they have  done it before and you like the results.

READ MORE..

How to Choose Bed Sheets Effectively

Buying sheets is not as easy as it used to be or should be. There's  such a wide variety of styles, colours and fabrics to choose from. You  may go to a store wanting plain white cotton sheets but end up so  confused because you have so many different types of cotton, that you  may go home with the wrong one (in most cases) or end up buying  something you don't want.
The amount of time you'll find yourself  spending in trying to choose the right type of bed sheet can be VERY  frustrating and buying online makes this process even harder because you  can't FEEL how soft/rough the fabric is. Frankly speaking, most people  would rather spend that valuable time doing something else.
Well,  here are a few pointers you should keep in mind when you want to buy  sheets for your bed or anybody else's bed for that matter. These are  just a few simple 'rules of thumb' for selecting the right sheets. Once  you understand these, there's no reason why you should not be able to  choose the best sheets for yourself, your family and guests each and  every time. You can literally order online as though you went to the  store in person.  READ MORE..

Choosing Conservatory Blinds

Since conservatories have so many windows, choosing conservatory  blinds is extremely important. The blinds are a major part of the room's  decor and can really help create a strong, beautiful design. Luckily,  there are many wonderful blind styles to choose from.
People  choose to use blinds in their conservatories for several reasons. First,  even with e-glass, windows let in some heat and sunlight. Since a  conservatory is almost all windows, even a small amount of heat coming  in each window can really increase the room's temperature to an  uncomfortable level. In addition, the sun's rays can damage furniture  and fade upholstery over time. People also buy blinds for the  conservatory to provide privacy from prying eyes. This is especially  important for conservatories facing a busy street, as the feeling of  being watched will often cause homeowners to end up spending very little  time in the room. Additionally, many homeowners use blinds as design  elements to help give the room a finished look. Before you shop for  conservatory blinds, you may want to find out if your windows come in  standard sizes. Often, conservatory windows are custom windows, designed  to fit perfectly together. Each window needs to be measured and blinds  need to be custom made.  READ MORE..

A Look at Wooden Bunk Beds

Wooden bunk beds are a very popular type of bunk bed and have many  advantages over metal bunk beds. Specifically, wooden bunk beds are  often safer since there is no need to worry about metal or weld  cracking.
The main disadvantages of wooden bunk beds are size and  bulk. Wood is much thicker than the metal tubing used on beds and, as  such, takes up a lot of space and is very heavy. As a result, moving a  wooden bunk bed is an ordeal and not something you want to do very  often. Likewise, shipping these beds is fairly expensive, although if  you buy online and out-of-state, you will save money on sales tax.
Wooden  bunk beds are often quite elegant. Many have shelves, drawers and/or  desks built right into them, and can be finished in a variety of wood  stains. The beds can make a bedroom more appealing to children, who can  draw on them, put stickers and hang posters on them, depending upon the  desires of their parents.

READ MORE..

The ABC of Being a Good Interior Designer

It may seem that all you need to be a good interior designer is a  sense of aesthetics and a flair for design. That is a good start, yes,  but it gets you about five feet forward in terms of your career. The  first thing to do is to turn a latent, in-born talent into an effective  tool. Just because you can figure out what looks nice and what doesn't  does not make you a good designer or decorator. You may know how to use  light and colour, how to synthesize architectural elements with design  details and how to integrate space and design, but that is about five  percent of the work. Most of the real work begins when you come to the  execution.
Some formal education in the basic concepts of interior  design is absolutely essential. There are many schools, which will give  you a basic background course, and most of them are diplomas, but they  are all very elementary in terms of the knowledge and the skills they  provide you with. You could either pursue a full-fledged course at a  reputed institute, preferably one with accreditation; or you could learn  by working with someone who is a storehouse of talent. Work with the  best, work for free if you have to, because it will be worth it. But  regardless of where you get the education and for how long, the one  thing an interior designer must always remember is that one is a  lifelong student. Every day gives you an opportunity to learn something  new about the trade and explore another aspect of its limitless  potential. READ MORE..

The Benefits of Laminate Bamboo Flooring

Bamboo, a grass once conjuring up images of Pandas and rickety boats,  is now being used to make quality wood floors in many North American  homes.  Bamboo laminate flooring is both an excellent building material  and environmentally friendly; bamboo is easily renewable and matures in  only five years.  It is durable, strong, hard, and dimensionally stable.

Grown  in China and Southeast Asia, the many species of bamboo being used for  bamboo laminate flooring are harvested after four or five years, cut  into strips, dried in the sun, and then laminated either vertically or  horizontally into two- or three-layer pieces.  Horizontally laminated  planks are referred to as "face grained," and vertically laminated  planks are "vertically grained."  Planks vary by color, which usually  comes in natural shade or carbonized (darker).  Carbonized bamboo is  treated with heat to give it a more amber color.

After the initial  processing, the bamboo laminate flooring planks are cut into various  sizes and finished with a stain.  Typical finishes include; no-stain (a  natural look and color), glossy (distinct shine), and matte (mottled  appearance).  Matte-finished laminate bamboo flooring is typically more  scratch-resistant than the glossy finish.  Unfinished or no-stain  flooring gives the buyer more choices for finishing the flooring. READ MORE..

How to Install Bamboo Flooring

Not just food for pandas or the stuff of cheap picnic mats, bamboo is  now being processed with modern techniques into beautiful "hardwood"  flooring that beats standard wood floors in durability, hardness, and  dimensional stability.

An added bonus to these beautiful floors is  the knowledge that bamboo, unlike wood, grows quickly and abundantly,  reaching maturity in five years or less.  Red oak and maple, by  comparison, can take decades to mature and then have to be replanted.   Clear-cutting of forests also has a negative environmental impact and  threatens the planet's biodiversity.

After harvesting, cutting,  processing, and finishing, bamboo flooring installation is not much  different from standard hardwood floor installation.  The important  steps in installation occur before putting in the bamboo floor.  First,  make sure you buy from a reputable manufacturer who is willing to back  up their product with a warranty.

The next step in bamboo flooring  installation is making sure the subfloor is dry, clean, and level.   Dirty subfloors will not bond well with the adhesive, and subfloors that  are not dry will eventually cause rot.  If not level, the bamboo  flooring will squeak when walked on.  If you are competent in home  repair and good with your hands, you may be able to complete the bamboo  flooring installation on your own.  In some cases, with certain types of  bamboo flooring, a professional will be needed. READ MORE..

An Introduction to Hardwood Floors

There's good news about hardwood floors. Because of advanced  construction and finish technologies, they are now more stable than they  were in the past. There are three types of hardwood floors: engineered,  longstrip, and solid. Within these basic types, there are many  variations, so it is worth getting information about many products  before determining which one is right for you.

When determining  the style and material for your flooring, it is important to consider  the areas to be floored, size of the areas in square feet, type of  subfloor, your preference for pre-finished or unfinished flooring and  stain color. You must also decide whether you will install the floor  yourself or hire a professional.

Flooring installation methods,  which include floating, nail-down, glue-down and staple-down, are not to  be tested by an amateur. Of these methods, glue-down flooring would be  comparatively easy for a newcomer to install. Inexperienced persons  should not try nail-down installation on their own as it requires  special skills and lots of time.

Comparing prices and products at  different supplier stores and home centers before finalizing the  flooring will help you to find the best deal. If you are confused or  uncertain about the product, consult a shop-keeper or installer. While  placing an order for material, do not forget to order installation  material such as adhesives, nails, tools and so on. READ MORE..

Long-Strip and Engineered Hardwood Floors

Longstrip hardwood floors are wide and long, and each plank has 2 to 3  strips of thin hardwood. These planks can be floated, stapled and  glued-down. The floors can be installed in all parts of the home and are  made up of numerous wood plies that are glued together, using a tongue  and groove connection made from soft core. The core is sandwiched  between a hardwood finish layer on the top and soft wood ply below.

Different  types of wood can be used for the finish layer. The layer consists of  separate and small solid wood pieces (usually 17 to 18) arranged in  three rows. Longstrip planks could be as long as 86 inches. The maximum  width is 7 ½ inches.  Floating installation makes them suitable for  different subfloors and below or above ground level. The longstrip and  engineered planks are good for concrete slabs and basements. In job  sites where moisture exceeds the normal level, these glued planks can be  used easily as gluing enhances dimensional stability.

Engineered  hardwood floors, on the other hand, are wood planks made up of numerous  wood piles which are glued and laminated. Quality engineered hardwood  floors can be used over different types of subfloors such as fully-cured  concrete and dry slabs because of higher dimensional stability. READ MORE..

A Look at Solid Hardwood Floors

Solid hardwood floors should neither be installed over a concrete  slab nor below ground level because of high moisture sensitivity.  Unsightly gaps appear when moisture dries and the floors contract in the  winter heating months. The floors expand and gaps disappear during  summers. The wood planks may buckle or cup because of excessive  moisture. In view of these facts, enough space should be left for  expansion and wood should be acclimated. Nail-down installations are  most appropriate for these floors. The possibility of re-coating and  refinishing increases the life and appearance of solid hardwood floors.  Generally solid hardwood floors are made up of ash, maple, red oak and  white oak.

Solid wood floorings are divided into three sub  categories: strip flooring, plank flooring and parquet flooring.  Thickness of strip flooring varies between 5/16 inch and ¾ inch.  Available widths are 1 ½ inch, 2 inch and 2 ¼ inch. Though plank  flooring is sold in two thicknesses, width can range between 3 inches  and 8 inches. Parquet flooring has geometrical patterns that are created  with wood slats.

Hand-scraped hardwood floors are hand crafted.  Character markings on handscraped hardwood floors (hand sculptured  floors) are a unique feature. These floors offer the best finishes for  either the modern world look or the old reclaimed wood floor look. Both  engineered and solid hand sculpted floors are sold. Beautiful  handscraped hardwood floors are very expensive. Engineered handscraped  hardwood floors are best suited for a structure erected on a concrete  slab and in high humidity conditions. A few companies also market  distressed hardwood flooring that has machine made markings unlike hand  made markings in handscraped hardwood floor. Handscraped floor is  costlier than distressed version, but both floorings offer a rich look. READ MORE..

Refinishing Hardwood Floors

The quality of the wear layer determines frequency of refinishing of  hardwood floors. Poor quality products can not withstand being  refinished even once. The thicker the wear layer, the more refinishing  it can withstand. Good quality engineered flooring can be refinished two  or three times depending on subfloor's smoothness and experience of  refinisher.

Refinishing a hardwood floor is a time consuming  process and requires the proper techniques, tools and patience for the  best results. The process consists of three stages: sanding, staining  and finishing. You can rent a floor sander from a home improvement store  or flooring company.  It is a heavy equipment you may need assistance  in using it. Remove any  nails, staples or tacks from the floor to  prevent tearing the sand paper. Use 20 grit sandpaper in the sander.  Make sure that sander follows wood grain direction instead of across the  grain. If the machine is switched on, it should not remain static.  After sanding entire floor, replace 20 grit sandpaper with 100 grit  paper to remove lines and scratches on the floor. The room should be  well ventilated while sanding, and it is important to wear a dust mask. READ MORE..

The Benefits of Gourmet Picnic Baskets

Instead of carrying dinnerware, silverware, beverage containers, and  so on, gourmet picnic baskets contain food for the feast. Gourmet picnic  baskets are woven baskets, either with an open top or a closeable lid,  containing cheese, salami, bread, crackers, olives, vegetables, dips,  and desserts like strawberries, chocolate sauce, whipped cream, mints,  and so on. They can contain any or all of these items, or even more.

The  key with all these ingredients is to have a large variety of each of  the elements. For cheese, pack Parmesan, cheddar, Gouda, or other good,  packable cheeses. For breads and crackers, make sure you have enough  different kinds so that your dining partners can enjoy a grand buffet of  taste sensations! So when you go to buy a gourmet picnic basket, be  sure to ask what the picnic basket includes. For the cheese, make sure  there is a way to cut it.

Some gourmet picnic baskets do come with  dinnerware, glassware, thermoses, cheese knives, and so on. If you  really want to go all out, carry two baskets -- one for materials, and  one for food! You can get gourmet picnic baskets in backpack format too,  so that you will have free hands to carry another container or hold  someone's hand as you walk through nature's vistas. READ MORE..

A Guide to Decorative Picnic Baskets

Decorative picnic baskets come in many sizes, styles, and artistic  flares. They can be packed with some basic cheeses and cracker varieties  with a couple of napkins, or they can be full-on feasts for four to  eight people, stocked richly with salmon, caviar, fruit, vegetables,  sweets, wine, water jugs, dinnerware, silverware, glassware, corkscrews,  and cutting boards.

Decorative picnic baskets tend to display  their contents openly, with no lid. Sometimes, they are so full that  they pop out of the basket for display purposes. For this reason, they  make perfect gifts.

Everybody recognizes the classic rattan-woven  picnic basket with the wooden handle and two flaps. You can almost smell  the fresh bread wrapped in kitchen cloth, the cheeses and crackers, the  freshly opened bottle of wine emanating from under the lids. These are  often called vintage picnic baskets. READ MORE..

Turning Your Childs Room into a Mysterious Jungle

(When designing a child's room, you want to create an atmosphere that  inspires and stimulates them mentally. The room should be interesting  to the child, and should reinforce both rational thinking, and  creativity. One way to achieve this goal is with a fun science based  theme, which will present a topic in the natural world in an exciting  manner.)

The jungle is a dark and mysterious place, full of dense  shrubs, towering trees, and shadows within which any number of strange  animals could be lurking. It is a place of predators and prey. It is a  place of exciting adventure. It is also a place that is full of the  opportunity for learning more about animals, plants, and nature in  general. If you present it in the right way, a jungle-themed child's  room can be an engaging, inspiring project that may encourage them to  develop a long term love of learning and nature. READ MORE..

An Introduction to Massage Chairs

A comfortable recliner is the prime parking spot for many-a-man. Try  plopping down in your dad's recliner and see how long it takes for him  to make you move. Companies continue to produce chairs that are becoming  increasingly comfortable, attractive and sophisticated. Their  popularity has spawned an evolution among recliners.

Today, more  than ever, massage chairs are gaining popularity. With people working  longer hours, having longer commute times and generally just more  stressed out, massage chairs provide a way for people to relax their  muscles in the comfort of their own homes. Although many people continue  to prefer the firm kneading of a professional massage therapist,  massage chairs offer similar results for less long-term costs and  immediate availability. READ MORE..

A Look at Shiatsu Massage Chairs

The term "shiatsu" refers to a form of Asian massage. This  traditional massage uses techniques of digging deep into the muscle  tissue to ease out knots and relieve tension. The shiatsu technique can  involve patting, rotating, sweeping and vibrating the affected areas.  Another popular technique is the "barefoot shiatsu" in which the  therapist walks on the back of the patient to remove tension.

Many  of today's shiatsu massage chairs are designed to imitate human touch.  These chairs are often useful in the treatment of headaches, digestive  problems, back pain and more. The benefits of shiatsu massage chairs can  be likened to an actual massage. The difference is that with a massage  chair, you can reap the benefits of this popular massage from your home  at any time you wish. READ MORE..

The Convenience of the Portable Massage Chair

Human resource officers have, over the past decade or so, began to  understand how massage therapy can benefit their employees. Employees  that sit at a desk for most of their day are at risk for carpal tunnel  syndrome, neck pain, back pain and tension headaches. Because of these  issues, many companies have started to invite massage therapists into  the office to provide stress and tension relief to their staff.

Massage  therapists that specialize in corporate massages use portable massage  chairs. These chairs are specially designed to be lightweight and easy  to haul. Usually made from aluminum, these chairs can be transported  from office to office with ease. Employees can lie forward with their  faces comfortably resting in a face cradle. This type of massage is  performed without the use of oils and you can continue to wear your  office attire. READ MORE..

The Advantages of Corner Kitchen Sinks

If your kitchen is U-shaped or L-shaped, a corner kitchen sink is  likely to increase your efficiency as it would be equidistant from your  working platforms. A corner kitchen sink may be in the form of a round  bowl, a rectangle, a square or even in a triangular form. You can opt  for a custom-made sink made out of granite, stainless steel or copper to  be a perfect fit for the kitchen corner of your choice.

A  center-fit kitchen sink is preferred when your kitchen is galley-shaped.  The central idea behind choosing the position of a sink is to make it  most convenient for you to work. Remember, the sink plays a central role  in all your kitchen activities, from the preparation of food to  cleaning up after the meal. READ MORE

Installing Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors can be secured using various installation methods such as floating, glue-down, nail-down, and staple-down. The ¾ inch solid floors can be nailed down. Adapters are used for thin flooring. The hardwood flooring can be stapled down over wood subfloor. The staple-down method is simpler than nail-down. Before securing hardwood floors, read the installation instructions provided by manufacturer for the right tools and methods. In glue down installation, the hardwood floor is glued onto the subfloor or cured and dry concrete slabs. Staple-down and nail-down methods are best for solid wood plank floors and solid wood strip floors. Parquet and engineered wood floors can be secured with glue. Floating is a quick and easy method of floor installation, in which hardwood floors float over different sub floors. The floor is not tied to the subfloor. A slim pad is inserted between subfloor and wood floor. The pad cuts noise level, and protects from moisture. Only groove and tongue of planks are glued together. Floating is used to install longstrip floors. Read more..

The Allure of Exotic Hardwood Floors

 Exotic hardwood floors are made up of solid exotic wood that is not grown in North America. These wooden planks are imported from Africa, Australia, Brazil, and the Far East. They are known for distinct coloration and wood grain, and can be bought as solid hardwood plank or engineered wood construction. Exotic hardwood flooring is used for its distinct look. These pricey floors should be considered an investment as homes with exotic wood floors fetch higher price than the homes with other floorings. When selecting your exotic hardwood flooring, you can choose from different grain styles and colors. Dark colors go well with conventional interiors, while light colors are suitable for casual and modern interiors. These versatile floorings come in a wide range of finishes. Exotic hardwood flooring can be installed in all rooms but the selected area should be kept dry. Read more..

The Benefits of Pre-finished Hardwood Floors

Pre-finished floors come with an extended factory finish warranty unlike unfinished floors. The heavy duty finishes are urethane-based. Within a few minutes, a number of urethane coatings can be applied on planks using ultra violet lights. However, you also have the option of unfinished hardwood flooring. The pre-finished hardwood floors have a definite advantage, as clean up and labor is not required and one can choose from a number of wood species. Unfinished floors need sanding and coating after they are secured while pre-finished floors do not. Pre-finished hardwood floors are cheaper and can be maintained easily. Addition of aluminum oxide chips to the finish, a recent advancement, makes urethane finish more durable. Pre-finished hard wood flooring made from red oak is cheaper than floors made of white oak. Red oak flooring is soft and its grain pattern is open. Pre-finished products are usually available in three or four colors. The surface of pre-finished engineered floor has a hardwood veneer that is known as the "wear layer". The layer may be thin or thick. The thickness of this layer will determine how many times refinishing can be done. In some products, refinishing is not possible. Read more..

Finding Cheap Hardwood Floors

A wide range of hardwood floorings are available in the market. While deciding the style and material for the flooring, take into account areas to be floored. You should know the size of the area in square feet, type of subfloor, your preference for pre-finished or unfinished flooring, stain color, whether you want to do it your self or hire a professional, the waste factors that depend on product type, and the room's shape. Flooring installation methods including floating, nail-down, glue-down and staple-down. If you're looking to do it yourself, glue-down is probably your best option. Inexperienced persons should not do nail-down installation on their own as it requires special skill and lots of time. Comparing prices and products at different supplier stores and home centers before finalizing the flooring will help in finding the best deal. If you are confused or uncertain about the product, consult shop keeper or installer. While placing an order for material, do not forget to order for installation materials such as adhesives, nails, tools and so on. Read more..

An Introduction to Air Purifiers

Air purifiers have been around in various forms since the 1940s, when the first HEPA filter was designed to protect workers from airborne nuclear material. Since then, air purifiers have been used in hospitals, work sites, and homes to protect against viruses, mold, bacteria, pollen, pet dander, tobacco smoke, dust mites, and a great number of industrial and household chemicals. The people who stand the most to gain from air purifiers are those with allergies, asthma, and other respiratory ailments. But everybody can benefit from having cleaner air in the home. The Environmental Protection Agency lists indoor air pollution among the top five environmental risks to public health. In fact, the inside of your home could well contain two to one hundred times more air pollutants than an outdoor urban environment. Air purifier value varies widely. You can spend upwards of $1600 for the best air purifiers known to man, or you can spend as little as $70 for a good car unit. You can also spend an arm and a leg on junk if you're not careful. One thing to keep in mind when buying an air purifier is unit-to-filter value. If your unit uses a HEPA filter, find out how much it costs to replace the filter. You may end up spending thousands on the filter alone. The question is, what kind of a machine do you want? Read more..

Types of Home Air Purifiers

Room Air Purifiers Room air purifiers replaced tabletop units in the 1990s as the leading type of home air purifier. Tabletop units proved to be mostly ineffective, because of the inadequate volume of air being moved through the unit. Room air purifiers are almost as portable, and they are a lot more effective. There are three basic types of home air purifiers made for single-room use. HEPA Filtered Air Purifiers HEPA stands for High Efficiency Particulate Air. Most often made of charcoal, a HEPA filter is placed upwind of a high-velocity fan on the unit, which forces the contaminates into the filter, catching debris such as dust mites, tobacco smoke, pollen, and other pollutants. Ion Generators Ionic units work by sending negatively charged ions out into your home. The ions attach to chemicals and particles in the air, causing them to become attracted to the surfaces of your house as well as to each other. The pollutants simply drop right out of the air. You then wipe, mop, and vacuum the material off the surfaces, as part of your regular chores. Ion-generating home air purifiers produce some ozone, so be aware of emission rates. Read more..

The Benefits of Owning an Ionic Air Purifier

Ionic air purifiers are not filter systems. Ionic air purifiers work by sending out negatively charged ions into the air of your home. The ions latch onto chemicals and particles such as dust, tobacco smoke, and pollen, causing them to become attracted to each other and to the interior surfaces of your home. The result is that they drop right out of the air. You wipe, mop, and vacuum the precipitant as part of your regular chores. This may seem like a dirty way to purify the air, but many machines are highly effective at it. Some ionic air purifiers have fans and others don't. Those with fans can be noisy or very quiet, depending on the brand. Those without fans rely on existing air currents - caused by ceiling fans, human movement, and so on - to carry the ions to the various nooks and crannies of the room. If you buy one with no fan, be sure to place the unit accordingly. If you buy one with a fan, wipe off the grille once in awhile, just as you would with a ceiling fan. One variation on the ionic air purifier is the electrostatic air purifier. It works by actually drawing air in through a carbon or HEPA pre-filter, which catches larger particles such as dust and pet dander. Then, the smaller particles, such as aerosols, pass through an electrical field, which ionically charges the pollutants. Immediately the newly charged particles are caught upon magnetized plates. To maintain peak efficiency, you periodically wash the filter, the electronic cell, and the electrostatic collector plates. This could be anywhere from every week to every six months, depending on air quality. Read more..

The Benefits of Ozone Air Purifiers

Ozone air purifiers or "ozone generators" are known for their effectiveness at reducing and masking the smells of new carpet and acrolein, a chemical partly responsible for the noxious odor of second-hand tobacco smoke. There are two types of ozone generators. Direct ozone generators work by intentionally producing ozone that goes out to cancel out some chemicals in the air of your home. For bars, fire restoration jobs, and other major odor issues, nothing beats a direct ozone generator. When possible, vacate the premises, including pets, plants, art, and important items that are made of rubber. Seal the building and run the generator for a few days. Thoroughly ventilate the interior before reentering. Indirect ozone generators are part and parcel with ionic air purification systems. Ionic air purifiers produce and send out negatively charged ions into the air, causing chemicals and particles to drop to the floor and surfaces. You clean off the surfaces as part of your regular chores. Ozone is one byproduct of this process. Read more..

The Benefits of HEPA Air Purifiers

The military designed the first HEPA filter in the 1940s for use in the Manhattan Project, when safety from free-floating nuclear material was a primary concern. Today, HEPA air purifiers are very widely used to remove dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and other airborne particles. They are perhaps the most tried-and-true method of air cleaning to date. The best part about HEPA air purifiers is that they emit no byproducts or secondary pollutants such as ozone. The Department of Energy continues to be the sole certifying body for all HEPA filters. The DOE has strict standards. All HEPA filters must be able to catch at least 95% of particles as small as 0.3 micrometers. If you are shopping for HEPA air purifiers, beware of "HEPA-type" or "HEPA-like" filters. They did not pass DOE muster on their ability to filter air. HEPA Air purifiers work by drawing in air via a fan. Large particles get trapped in the folds of the filter, while small particles and chemicals attach to the charcoal matter in the filter. Some fans have a straight design whereby the air is drawn in from the back and blown out through the front. These units clean the air very quickly and are good for aiming at your bed or sitting area. Other fans are unidirectional, pulling in air from all sides of the machine and blowing the filtered air out in all directions. These are good for cleaning the air in whole rooms. Read more..

Which Air Purifier is Best For You?

Perhaps the best air purifiers are those from the IQAir line. These units are widely used in hospitals to eliminate mold, viruses, and bacteria. In fact, the Hong Kong Hospital Authority chose the IQAir Health Pro as the only acceptable air purifier during the SARS outbreak. The IQAir Health Pro uses a carbon pre-filter, a gas media absorber, and a HEPA filter. Its efficient design prevents already-cleaned air from immediately reentering the intake duct. It filters air up to 50% faster than most other purifiers, and at almost a 100% filtering rate. Being the best, it is also the most expensive, often costing up to $1,600. Another hospital-grade air purifier brand is Clarifier. Their three models can all be had for under a grand. They include high carbon content for superior odor reduction, strong HEPA efficiency, and an ultraviolet light for killing off mold trapped in the HEPA filter. If you want a quiet machine without sacrificing too much efficacy, buy a Blueair or Electrolux model for $350 to $600. The Blueair 601 controls pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, and general indoor pollution in a range of up to 679 square feet. The Electrolux 510A is a very quiet and economical unit that includes a filter change indicator light. Read more..

The Importance of Home Air Filters

Many people are not aware that the air inside our homes is five times harmful than the air outside. Because of airtight home and office building constructions, the airborne pollutants are trapped inside, making the contaminated air unable to escape. Clean air is even more important inside the home than it is outdoors. Home air filters, also called as ""furnace filters"", keep the coils and heat exchanges on the heating and air conditioning system clean, which otherwise make the system work harder. Home air filters contain high efficient motors and anti-microbial filters, resulting in healthy and clean air in home or office. There are manifold types and styles of home air purifiers, including HEPA, carbon, zeolite, UV light air purifiers, and more. Some air purifiers have filters, and some use stainless steel rods to collect contaminates. Read more..

A Look at Electronic Air Filters

Many people mistakenly assume that an air conditioning only controls the temperature of a living space. Air conditioning also involves the cleanliness of the air. Filtration is an excellent way to accomplish air cleaning and provide enhanced levels of comfort to a building's occupants. Continuous exposure to unfiltered air results in asthma, allergies, and breathing problems. Generally, air-conditioning systems include electronic air filters, which use electrical charges to attract and deposit 95% of household allergens and irritants to the human body. An electronic air cleaner is installed between the furnace and the air ducts to improve indoor air filtration throughout the home. The air inside the home circulates through the cooling system, carrying millions of airborne particles with it. When this air is drawn into the system or device, a pre-filter in the electronic filter traps the majority of the allergens and irritants. Those particles that do pass through the pre-filter receive an electric charge inside the filter. Collector plates of the filter attract these particles and hold them until the cells are cleaned. Electronic air cleaners offer the optimum balance between air filtration and system pressure drop (air restriction). Read more..

What are HEPA Air Filters?

The Environmental Protection Agency has determined that almost 90% of the people spend their time indoors. This means that indoor air quality is much more important than outdoor air quality for most people. HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are recommended by allergists and medical professionals for the removal of all dust particles in the size range of droplet nuclei from the air. The HEPA filter, a mechanical filter, was developed by the Atomic Energy Commission of U.S.A. during World War II to prevent radioactive particles from escaping from plants and laboratories. Those initial HEPA air filters were very bulky compared to those that are produced today. HEPA filters are able to trap 99.97% of particles having the size of 0.3 micron, including harmful fibers, dust, smoke, pet dander, and more. With the capacity to collect dirt particles, which are 1/300th the width of the human air, these filters have high resistance power and cannot be placed directly in heating or cooling systems. These filters are used as the primary filtration systems for electronic clean room assembly, isolation wards, surgical theaters, bioengineering units, pharmaceutical processing units, and other places where the maximum removal of sub-micron particulate is required. They are also used in portable units to supplement a building's ventilation system by providing disinfected air. Read more..

How to Choose the Right Air Conditioner Filter

The air filter in an air conditioning system keeps the cooling coils and air inside the room clean and free from all pollutants, pet dander, ozone emissions and airborne particles. There are many different kinds of air filters available today, such as HEPA, standard, pleated, electrostatic and electronic filters. Of these, standard, pleated and electrostatic filters are the most common types of filters that are used in air conditioners. Generally these filters are located in walls, ceilings, furnaces, or in the air conditioner itself. Standard Air Filters, having the capacity of removing 10 percent of the airborne pollutants, are made of spun fiberglass with cardboard frames. . They should be changed once a month..Pleated Air Filters catch around 35% to 40% of the particles in the air. Owing to their greater surface area with filter material folded back and forth like a paper fan, manufacturers claim that they can last from two to four months. The cost of these filters ranges from $5 to $20 which is slightly more than that of standard filters. Read more..

How to Choose the Right Air Conditioner Filter plus articles and information on Interior-Decorating

Because there are several air filter manufacturers on the market, it is helpful to be able to sort through the different manufacturers and products. The brief manufacturer/product profiles below are intended to help consumers do just that. Honeywell Honeywell dates back to 1885, and produces thermostats, air cleaners, humidifiers, and more. They offer four types of air filters: Replacement Media filters, HEPA air cleaners, Media Air Cleaners, and Electronic air cleaners. All these filters has advanced technology and meet American Lung Association Health House guidelines. Honeywell's Whole-House HEPA Air Cleaner provides a powerful, three-stage filtration process to deliver the cleanest air. The three-stage filter system includes activated carbon, pre-filter and HEPA filter. These filters contain an AIRWATCH indicator, which reminds when to change filter, and come with a one-year warranty. The Honeywell's Electronic Air Filter destroys almost 98% of pollutants and comes with a 5 year-warranty. Honeywell also offers two types of Media air filters: Furnace Mount Air cleaners and Return Grille air cleaners. Read more..