Tag / door handles

by Ted

Get That Envy-Inspiring Home You Dream Of

So you’re thinking of improving your home once and for all? This can be a good idea. First, it is essential that you learn the basics that are common to many do it yourself projects. If you feel you need some great information to get started, continue reading.

If you are not able to get a designer, you can do it yourself. You can find books, magazines and websites with great ideas. One layout in a magazine can be your inspiration for what you want your home to look like. You can also find information about cheaper do-it-yourself projects in these resources.

Fans are great for cooling your home. You should install some ceiling fans to keep their air circulating and create a cool environment. Using room and ceiling fans can help reduce the amount of energy you use running an air conditioner, lowering your electric bill.

TIP! Fans are a must in the hot summer months. Ceiling fans help circulate air, which will help in cooling the room.

If you are doing some work on your house, you need to have a drill. A drill allows you to drill different diameter holes, as well as screwing in a variety of screws. Here is the best kind of drill to have: 9V cordless with bits ranging from 1/4 to 1/32 in both Phillips head and flat head types.

Floor Joists

If you can afford purchasing real wood floors rather than laminate, then do so. Laminate looks like real wood but it cannot be refinished. In 10 or so years you or whoever owns the home will be required to get a whole new floor rather than refinishing it.

TIP! If you have some wiggle room in your budget, spring for real wood flooring, as opposed to laminate. Although laminate might look real and be easy to clean, you cannot refinish it.

Building material can be stored between floor joists or rafters in the ceiling. A little effort goes a long way and you can store sections of molding and other longer building materials out of your way. Nail some furring strips to two exposed rafters or floor joists, and place the material in there.

The first step to a kitchen or bathroom renovation is turning off the water! Make sure you know where the shut off valve is before working near the plumbing system. Taking this step can help prevent a flood.

Spend time once a week to dust all home accessories. Dust can quickly accumulate. Besides keeping everything as clean and beautiful as it should be, when you dust regularly you’re in an excellent position to observe the first signs of damage, wear, or pest infestations in your home.

TIP! It is important to thoroughly dust your home weekly. Lots of dust can gather in a small period of time, causing allergens to accumulate.

Baby food jars can come in handy as small organizing tools. You should screw or glue the lids under a wall shelf. Put small items like jewelry, screws, nails, or jewelry parts into the jars. You then have to twist your jars into place again underneath the shelf. This will help maximize your space and efficiency.

An excellent method of making your front lawn more attractive is to use outdoor accent lighting that is facing downward. You can even place lights in a tree so it looks like natural light. The lighting is also great for spotlighting outdoor dining areas or garden statues.

If you wish to do an easy home improvement project, get to a store and purchase some paint. Fresh paint has the ability to make a home feel new again and is easy and cheap to apply. It ensures buyers will be interested in moving in.

TIP! If you would like to make a simple home improvement to give it an updated look then go to the local store and pick up some paint. A new coat of paint makes your house feel fresh and new without the costs or headaches attached.

It can be very expensive to replace your flooring, no matter what material you use. One way to do it that is affordable is to get rid of the floor that is there and stain the concrete instead. The look is modern and industrial, and the color possibilities are nearly endless.

If you currently have low ceilings, you may want to consider new window treatments that can give your room the illusion of greater space. The trick to making the ceiling appear higher is to locate the drapes, valance, and curtain rod closer to the ceiling.

Unless you can afford a designer or a contractor, you need to start learning how to do certain things. The Internet, library, home improvement store and bookstores are great tools for increasing your knowledge. A magazine layout can inspire a room or your whole house. Such resources are often full of tips on getting more bang for your home improvement buck.

TIP! If a designer is out of your price range, it is time to do your own research. You can learn from websites, books, magazines and more.

If you are putting cabinetry in your kitchen, pull out a level. You can begin at the absolute highest point of your kitchen floor, setting the benchmark line for the cabinet installation.

Do you have an old dresser sitting in your bedroom that’s seen better days? You can revitalize your old furniture with sandpaper and some new finish. When you refinish old furniture, you get a new look for less money. The new stain can be just about any color you want.

Do not buy furniture that is upholstered with strong patterns. Doing so may lock you in to a certain style in your home. Purchase furniture in solid, basic colors such as tan, black, blue, brown and green. In this way, you can change accessories frequently for a fresh new look. Add patterns through pillows, blankets and drapes instead.

TIP! You should avoid furniture with a busy upholstery. Buying items with floral print, geometric shapes and patterns can pre-determine what your home decor must look like.

One of the best and easiest ways to improve a dull and outdated kitchen is to instal a new sink. It makes the room look brighter and better right away. A new sink in a bold color or unusual finish can really perk up your kitchen.

A good way to make your home look good is to replace the door handles. It’s quick and affordable, too. The most complicated tool you will have to use is a screwdriver. You can buy handles and knobs at your home improvement store.

Adding quality insulation to your attic is the best way to conserve energy and save money. Because heat rises, houses with bad insulation can lose a lot of heat during the colder months. Most hardware stores sell insulation, and installing it yourself is relatively simple.

TIP! Insulating your attic should help you reduce your energy bill. If the insulation of your attic is not good, you might be losing a lot of heat in the winter.

Old toothbrushes are great for cleaning chores. Old toothbrushes work for a multitude of surfaces such as the kitchen sink’s faucet area or even your car’s engine parts. They’re also free, which is another great bonus. Why bother getting a new brush when you can get more use out of your old one? Go ahead and save your money for another project.

Door Handles

List the things you need before you go to the home improvement store. In this way, you can avoid traipsing back and forth to the home improvement center for forgotten items.

TIP! Create a shopping list when you plan to go to the store to get supplies. Having this list of items will allow you to visit the store just one time and will help you be organized.

Look at your home’s door handles. Shiny brass knobs look amazing. Carefully view all the door handles in every room. Consider replacing these handles with brass door ones in order to take a huge change.

Decorative paints can go a long way in making a room look extravagant for less. The supplies you need are very inexpensive and you can use many different techniques to create the effect you want. Try ragging or fresco: these techniques are easy and the results incredible.

Visit open houses or model homes to get some ideas about your home improvement projects. You can look at the latest colors and styles and get some great ideas. A professional decorator is often the inspiration for the looks that you see, so you can get great ideas without a lot of hassle.

TIP! Before you decide on renovations, attend new subdivision open houses. Experience the very newest in options for decorating and see what the outcome of a home improvement project may look like before you get started.

Make safety a priority when working on your residence. Turn off the gas if you will be working around them. You don’t want to inadvertently spark a gas explosion due to carelessness. Be aware of the location of the shutoff valve. In addition, you want to be aware of any gas lines and their locations to avoid accidentally hitting one.

It is good that you’re reading this article. Keep on reading for the conclusion. You should feel good about getting this far. You should now be equipped with a good foundation for tackling your own home improvement projects the right way. Should any inquiries still remain, review the article again.

The right light in a space can make all the difference. A brighter room will always appear warmer and invite new guests with a sense of comfort already in hand. A second fixture will also brighten a room. Just changing the lighting in a room can give it a fresh new look and open it up.

TIP! Putting in the right type of lighting for a room makes a tremendous difference. A bright room normally is very inviting towards anyone who enters the home.

by Ted

Tips For Home Improvement

It’s great to do DIY home improvement tasks and do them well. Nonetheless, there are many considerations when tackling home improvement. Safety is one of these major considerations. Do you know where to being with your home improvement projects? Fortunately, the below article contains excellent advice that will help you begin your home-improvement project.

If you have little cracks in the roof of your home, just get a 3 inch roll of aluminum tape to fix it up. To use the tape, simply remove the paper backing from the tape and apply over the crack. Aluminum tape creates a waterproof seal.

Only spend time on home improvements that are practical. Improvements that make no sense like a sun room with no insulation in a cold climate, or a deck with no shade in a hot climate might deter a possible home buyer. Stick to what is liked, and don’t reach outside of what local climate allows.

TIP! Change your door hinge as a start to your home improvement projects. They can be found at any hardware store.

As you plan home improvements, consider your neighborhoods’s character. For instance, choosing a Victorian style may stick out in a row of homes with a cottage look. When doing a remodeling, take into consideration what the home will look like in the context of the other homes around it.

When it comes time to purchase furnishings, shy away from living room pieces that have active patterns in the upholstery. Upholstery with complex patterns such as floral prints or geometric shapes will make it hard for you to find decor that matches. Purchase furniture that is decorated or made in solid colors and tones, then accessorize with patterns. Patterns can then be easily updated at a later time, so as never to look dated and old-fashioned.

If expense is a factor, consider vinyl tiles instead of ceramic or stone. Vinyl flooring is simple to put in, durable and water resistant. Vinyl flooring comes in sheets for large-scale flooring projects, and it’s also available in individual tiles for smaller jobs.

TIP! Place several nail holes along the rim of the paint cans! This helps because it will make less of a mess with the paint when the lid is replaced. With a nail, put several holes in paint can’s perimeter, in the bottom of that channel, to avoid a problem.

Write a list of things you might need before going to the store. Creating a list will allow you to only make one trip to the store instead of many while keeping you organized at the same time.

In time, the caning of a chair begins sagging. You can easily repair your caning to its original form with a simple trick. All you need to do is run a wet sponge along the bottom of the chair’s sagging caning. Only use warm water. Let the caning dry overnight. Continue doing this until your caning is back to normal.

In home improvement projects, you need to dedicate a certain space in your yard for the debris that results from the project. Getting rid of all that debris can be a big expense, so it is critical that you plan ahead in order to economize and avoid delays with regard to your project.

TIP! Whenever you need to go the home improvement store, it is best that you have a checklist of all the things you have to use. This will make it less likely that you’ll have to return to the store for something you forgot to get.

When you are thinking about tackling a paint job project in your house, it is crucial that you know how much paint will be needed to get everything done. Don’t guess about the costs because that can end up costing you big time. Take measurements and do it right!

Install a shower if you don’t already have one on the premises. Not only is a shower more convenient than a tub, but it also more cost effective. You can save 75% of your normal bathtub water by taking a five minute shower instead.

Before you attempt to sell your home, you need to ensure that each individual space within the home as a clear purpose. For example, your office should have the right furniture and accessories for a typical home office. This allows potential buyers to see themselves within the space, allowing them the opportunity to determine how they’d use it. When a home features clearly defined, functional areas, it is infinitely more appealing to buyers.

TIP! The right light in a space can make all the difference. Well lit rooms feel cozy and comfortable for all those in residence.

Wipe any dust, dirt or oil from your baseboards and walls with a damp rag before you start painting them. You can avoid the need for extra coats of paint by providing a clean surface for the new paint.

On major home improvement jobs, homeowners should always take information from their contractors with a grain of salt. Many contractors will try to take advantage of home owners. Be sure to verify all the potential problems that a contractor mentions a home having.

Imagine the best use of your outdoor areas. Your backyard can be an attractive, cozy addition to your living space. This area would be great for entertaining, barbecuing or just relaxing.

TIP! Consider installing motion detector lights on or near your front door. When you are only turning on the light when required, you are saving a lot of money on electricity.

Is your floor covering looking out-dated? If you are very ambitious, you can take up your entire floor and use sticky wood flooring instead. This might seem like cheap flooring, but it is actually quite nice. Also, it’s easy to lay down this type of flooring; therefore, many people can do this without assistance.

A brand new welcome mat and a fresh coat of paint can do wonders for the front of your house. Your front entrance is the portal to your home and it is the first impression that guests get of your home. An inviting mat and fresh, cared for plants will give visitors a good first impression.

If your low ceilings have you and your family feeling claustrophobic, consider updating your window treatments to create an illusion of more space and add a pop of color that can be changed with the seasons. All you have to do is place your window treatments higher to make your ceilings appear higher.

TIP! As you remodel your bathroom, pay special attention to lighting. It’s common to think about how the new fixtures will look, while forgetting the light brightness the fixtures allow is just as important.

Door Handles

How do your doorknobs look? Brass door handles shine immensely, and they make for a great improvement in your home decor. Look at the handles you have in every room and switch them out with door handles that are brass to ensure a striking change.

Expect to pay plenty for work you want done quickly. Contractors will usually be eager to work harder on a project. As long as you are willing to pay more, they will be willing to do the work. As long as you are both on the same page about this, your job will get done on time.

TIP! One of the best times to remodel is during a real estate market downswing. Homeowners are able to save a lot of money during these times because contractors are more competitive for your work.

A great home improvement task can add greatly to your house, but as previously mentioned, don’t forget safety equipment. You must learn more in order to know what you’re doing. What’s stopping you? Get started with improving your home by using the tips above!

by Ted

Looking For Inspiration On Your Home Improvement Project? Try This Advice!

Improving your home can drastically improve your home’s look and even its value. The following information will help you see how home improvement can work for you.

Sometimes, it takes only a small investment in order to improve your house’s value. If you are actually reselling your home, try a few small-budget improvements. One example might be a new splash of paint on the interior and exterior. Such a simple and inexpensive upgrade on your end can add an enormous amount of value when selling.

Think about what you’re going to do before you do it. If you want to stay withing your budget, you have to have a plan. Making constant changes to your project after you start can be expensive and time consuming. If you’re working with contractors or other professionals, you’ll also find that they are much more comfortable with well-defined goals to work towards.

TIP! If your door is constantly squeaking, try replacing the hinge. Fortunately, these are easily located at most home improvement stores.

Consider getting a washer and dryer combo unit if you are limited on space. You can find many combination machines that can fit in small spaces. These combos both wash and dry your clothing.

It is important to thoroughly dust your home weekly. Dust can quickly accumulate. Regular cleaning eradicates dust, but also keeps your home free from ants, fleas and other pests.

Your paint cans could do with a few holes in their rims. During use, the rim of the can can fill with paint and create spills and drips when replacing the lid. With a nail, several holes can be made in the perimeter allow the channel to stay clear.

TIP! When considering your next big project, start by securing help from your family and friends. If you start, then ask, you may find many people scared off by the work at hand.

You should never allow a contractor to begin work on your project without a signed contract. If you can, have a lawyer look over the contract before signing it. You should put in when the work will be finished, any guarantees on work, and what is going to be done.

Consider updating the insulation of your house for your next energy saving home improvement project. Place weather-stripping on all your doors and windows. When you minimize the air flow in and out of your home, you can run your environmental and temperature controls with far better efficiency. You will also end up saving quite a bit of money on your next energy bill.

Always turn off the main water supply before working near pipes in your home. Become familiar with the master shut of valve before completing any projects that involve the water supply or your pipes. By doing this, you will prevent flooding from occurring.

TIP! Prior to making up your mind about any particular type of home renovation, visit a few open houses in the area. You will get a feel for the latest color palettes and you can see how your home might look if you used some of the newest ideas.

Ask for references before hiring anyone to make home improvements. Think about it like you are hiring an employee. Call the references and inquire about the contractor and his work.

Downspouts, gutters, and chimneys are often not noticed for home improvements. It is vital to look at these areas and repair them if necessary. If not cleaned regularly, chimneys can ignite, and plugged downspouts and gutters can result in water damage.

A luggage rack can be recycled into a stylish, inexpensive end table for your living room. Simply place a piece of glass on top of the luggage rack for an instant side table. Place a lamp and some magazines on top of it, and you have a beautiful, usable new side table.

TIP! Seal your tile grout. Grout has a porous consistency.

Try to use only natural materials for any home improvement projects being done inside. Real building supplies like wood and stone are much better than using synthetic ones. They are much more attractive and durable to use. The initial expense up-front for these materials may pay off over time because they will last longer.

Your kitchen and bathroom renovations will start with turning off water sources so that you don’t create flooding when you work on your pipes or fixtures. Sometimes homeowners forget about doing this and cause more problems for themselves.

If many repairs are required before moving in you should do the more difficult ones first. Smaller projects that do not require moving heavy furnishings can be done little by little after moving in.

TIP! When you are looking for a contractor to help you with home improvement, compare the estimates you are given very carefully. Make a list of what you need done and ensure consistency in your requests of prospective contractors.

If you leave gutters clogged, you could end up with a serious issue. Leaky gutters on the sides of houses can cause water to seep into the basement, which will eventually cause a flood. Clean out the gutters before this happens.

Paint is the first thing to think about when you’re styling a room. It is a lot easier to paint before the floor is installed. Even with tarps and drop cloths, you are sure to find a way to get some paint on your beautiful new flooring.

You can boost your home’s value and improve its curb appeal simply by adding another coat of high gloss paint to its shutters and front door. A home with a light exterior siding color is complemented well with a darker color paint. Consider adding a lighter paint to shutters or doors when you have a dark exterior color to your home.

TIP! A fresh coat of paint or a charming welcome mat can really improve your front entrance. First impressions are important for houses, and your entryway will be where your guests start forming theirs.

It’s always important to check that any new lighting added to bathrooms is as bright as you need it to be. For bathrooms especially, people tend to put all their effort on elements such as the tub or sink and forget about proper lighting. Fixtures in the ceiling should be selected with some thought given to how easy it will be to replace bulbs in the future, and you can improve the room’s utility by adding accent lights to the sink and mirror areas.

To rejuvenate a dining area, consider refinishing your table. While this isn’t the easiest of projects, doing so will leave you with a brand new looking table. Take your time and do it right for maximum impact.

It is not necessary to change the kitchen cabinets of your home to obtain a new look in your kitchen. Repainting them can really recreate your space. There are several kinds of finishes that can be used on cabinetry. Learn about different techniques online and select the one that will work for your space. Do the work yourself and update your home affordably and easily.

TIP! If you have home improvement projects that use the water supply, shut it off before working. You really need to know where the shut off valve to the water in your home is located so you can turn it off to work on the sink.

You can refresh your bathroom by putting up some new artwork and wallpaper. It does not cost much, and there are a lot of styles available. It’s also simple to install. By putting in simple, cheap artwork, you can completely transform the look of your bathroom.

It might be too much to update the inside of your house. Schedule times to work on the project when others or occupied elsewhere in the home or away from home. That ensures stress levels stay low.

This hint will help you through a long cold winter. A water softener should be used to filter water. You can get rid of magnesium and calcium deposits so that the water is not as hard. There are many different kinds of water softeners that you could use. Make the choice about which is right for your house.

TIP! Do a walk-through of your house every month to catch things around the house that you can improve. For example, you could find an air leak.

Fixing up your kitchen doesn’t take an insane amount of money. Just a bit of paint can really change things up. A number of interesting finishes can be applied to your cabinets. Do a little research, find ideas that you like and add your special touch to make them your own.

Brass Door

Consider paining the interior or exterior of your home. Simple coats of paint could refresh the walls instantly and having a different shade could make a room look as if it was redesigned. You can also paint old wooden or metal furniture for a new look.

TIP! Save your home’s foundation, and walls, by assuring that storm water is directed away from the base of your house. To keep run off water from damaging your house, create a gradual slope falling away from it, so that water doesn’t accumulate near your foundation.

Have you looked at the handles on the doors in the house? Brass door handles are very shiny, and they’re great for improving how the inside of a home looks. Carefully view all the door handles in every room. Consider replacing these handles with brass door ones in order to take a huge change.

After reading this, you should now feel capable enough to get started. By following the tips presented here, you’ll soon be bragging to your friends and showing off the beautiful home you have created with DIY home improvement projects.

You should always check the guarantee provided to you if you hire a professional contractor for home improvements. Failure to check the paperwork could result in you being stuck with shabby work, and no recourse to follow. You need to be sure that the work is guaranteed and check the length of the guarantee.

TIP! New carpet is a great project that is going to change the feel and look of every room in your home. Make sure you research and find the perfect carpet for your home.

by Ted

Why Live Unhappy With Your Home? Make Improvements!

Many people feel overwhelmed or even intimidated at the idea of beginning a home improvement renovation or project. When you are educated and have the right tools, you can do any home improvement project yourself. Use the following advice to help you complete your project.

Keep your eyes peeled for major carpet sales at local home improvement stores. Often, they will reduce the cost of installation to extremely low levels to help sell the actual carpet. When you see this type of sale, it’s time to move as often full-priced installation can cost more than the carpet itself.

It can be a very large expenditure to purchase brand new furniture. Add some spice to your home by buying vintage furniture. You can find some great deals among things that someone else didn’t want. Some may need to be worked on, but if you put in the time, it will be a great addition to your home.

TIP! Connecting PVC pipes is easy and only requires you to use PVC primer and cement. Don’t buy anything else, as it won’t work and could cause a leak.

Always personalize your goals when it comes to home improvement. You’ll be adding personal touches whenever you take on a project.

If you have tried everything you can to stop your door from squeaky, you may need a new hinge. You can find hinges at different hardware stores. All you need to is attach each section to your door and the frame of your wall. You then align the hinges so you can replace pins.

Prior to beginning work on any electrical appliance or lighting fixture, make sure the circuit breaker switch for that area of the house is turned off. If you don’t, you’ll be in for a shocking experience that could result in your death.

TIP! The view from your windows may increase the value of your home. If your home looks out onto the ocean, for example, this may increase its value.

If you want a simple home improvement, go buy some paint. A new coat of paint is just the thing to make an entire home seem brand new, and only requires a bit of time and money. Getting a new coat of paint will make your home more appealing to potential buyers.

If one of your windows requires a new screen, but you are unable to locate a replacement that fits, consider how simple it is to just make one of your own. You can get a kit and attach the screen by using a tool that is fairly cheap. There are some windows that will need to have a special screen, though you can always add external screens using adapters that are easy to install.

The quality of a great door cannot be underestimated. It is the first and last thing your guests will see. As well, a poor fitting door can lead to a large amount of heat loss. If your door and frame are not made well you will lose your sense of safety.

TIP! The wall-to-wall carpeting found in some older homes can be stained and outdated. Wood floors can last significantly longer than carpeting, and have a timeless look about them.

Sharp Furniture

Consider padding the edges of sharp furniture if you have small children or clumsy animals. You can even turn this into a stylish do-it-yourself project. Local retailers should have corner protectors and foam tapes you can use to dull sharp furniture edges or objects that your child is sure to collide with at some point. Make sure, too, that you remove a potential tripping and strangling hazard for your children by taping down all loose wires.

There are many types of materials you have to avoid while making home improvements, and certain types of drywall now fit this bill. Don’t buy drywall (also known as wall board or sheet rock) that was made in China. Since 2005, a great deal of the drywall used in the U.S. building industry has been sourced from China. The quality control used in manufacturing this drywall leaves much to be desired. Sometimes drywall from China has noxious gas that may hurt your electric wiring.

TIP! You should think about putting in a shower if you do not have one. A shower is easier to get into than a bathtub and also limits the water consumed by people in the house.

If you’re thinking of making some improvements to your home, consider updating your front porch. A porch is highly visible to the public and gives a lasting first impression to guest visiting your home. Clean up clutter and add nice enhancements such as flowers and flower pots, patio furniture, wood varnish, and light fixtures. This is a great way to increase the value of your home.

Give your septic tank regular care and maintenance. It’s easy to purchase chemicals that speed up the process of decomposition and prevent overflowing from occurring. Make sure to avoid damaging your septic tank when making home improvements. Make sure you are very careful when planning your project because you don’t want to mess up a septic tank or something else and be forced to pay a large amount on damages.

Cedar fences are great for areas that are fire-prone or very dry. Cedar wood can help prevent fires in these areas.

TIP! When choosing a contractor for home improvement, be sure you’re assessing estimates that are based on comparable specifications. Make a list that you give to each of the contractors of the things you want done.

As you plan your yearly remodeling projects, focus on the early months during the year for building your budget. This is when you have to watch money the most, as the holidays have just passed. If you try to finance the project without enough money, you could go overbudget, which in turn will cause stress. Putting aside money before you start allows you to completely avoid this scenario.

If you want to get rid of a popcorn ceiling, have a professional test it for asbestos first. Asbestos can be very harmful and should be handled by professionals wearing proper protection and using proper disposal techniques. A ceiling that contains asbestos should be removed by professionals with special equipment for doing so.

You should not fill a room with too much furniture. A room full of furniture gives the impression of a small space. This is especially important if you are trying to sell, as you want your rooms to look large and enjoyable to be in to any prospective buyers. The room looks bigger when you have fewer pieces of furniture in it.

TIP! Keep an eye on the weather. If it rains a lot in your area, installing a patio outdoors may not be the best investment.

If there is a lot of space in the attic, you should install a dormer window to make the area more usable. This window will look great from the outside and could double the square feet of your home. For a small investment, this will give you more livable square footage and increase your property value.

Door Handles

In order to makeover your home very quickly, you can use new paneling on your walls. Paneling is an inexpensive and quick way to give your home an updated look. If at any time you decide to make more changes, it is not difficult to remove and won’t damage the walls.

TIP! Consider how long you plan on living in the house. If you may not be there for a long time, spending lots of money on alterations may be unwise.

Have you looked at the handles on the doors in the house? Installing brass door handles give off that rich looking shine, and really add to a home’s decor. You can make a big change in the appearance of your home by simply switching out your old door handles for attractive matched brass handles.

People put a lot of time and money into installing showy features like radiant floor heating. They’ll do this while neglecting other aspects such as the paint job. Potential consumers will register these errors, thinking the house is a “fixer-upper” and request a price that is much lower than the actual value. First impressions are crucial to helping your home sell.

Ceramic tile can be used in kitchens and bathrooms. You can have unique designs on the tiles, or you can go for a certain solid color that provides a nice chic look. Putting in ceramic tiling is a good way to increase value and help your room look great.

TIP! If you decide to use a contractor, remember that their reputation is more important than how much they cost or any extras that they offer you. A contractor who offers very low prices is usually someone who performs shoddy work that will not last.

You may have thought that it was going to be difficult to tackle your home improvement project without the help of a professional contractor. If you use the information provided by this article, you may be able to do at least some projects without any outside help.

by Ted

Simple Home Improvement Ideas For The Homeowner

Do you consider yourself pretty handy around the house? Are you a Mr. Fix-it? Are you able to repair your own home? Use the tips included in this article to learn more about home improvement.

If you are planning something major in terms of a home renovation project, make sure you hire a professional to help with the plans. Plans created on your own or through friends may be pretty, but not functional with your current home. Someone who professionally designs will do it the right way and you will avoid any disaster.

A crazy addition will add some pizazz to your house. Try putting in a wine cellar or a library with some book shelves. It will impress your guests and anyone that is interested in purchasing your property.

TIP! Brand new furniture, even from department stores, can break the budget. Garage sales and thrift stores can add a new flare to your room! You can find some great deals among things that someone else didn’t want.

A good tip in deciding what kind of home improvement project to do is to take stock in what you would like to achieve. While this is a good idea, you should also make sure that each improvement is practical.

Does your porch need a new paint job? Make sure you apply a high quality exterior paint product. When you are painting you have to use the same kind of paint to go over the old. Oil-based paint is good for trim, as it lasts longer, but it should not be used on a deck or floor outdoors, as it becomes very slippery with snow.

Make puncture holes in paint can rims with a nail. This will prevent paint from filling the channels of the metal paint cans, and as a result they will not spill when you replace the cover. If you pound some holes in the top of the can it will prevent this problem from rearing its ugly head.

TIP! You should store building material stacked in between floor joints or your ceiling rafters. It is fairly easy to store a lengthy piece of molding or even a two by four in this fashion.

Maybe you don’t really have to replace your bedroom doors; they may simply need refinishing. Take the door off its frame, then sand it until you expose the wood. You can then use oil based and a paint roller. Change out your doorknobs to something fancier.

Safety should be a top concern when improving your house. No matter what sort of task you take on, there is some risk. Make certain you know how to use your power tools by reading instructions and seeking help as needed. Numerous online tutorials exist to help you with projects.

Dressing up pillows for a young adult’s room can be very simple. Just take some old pieces of clothing with interesting patterns, cut and sew into a cool pillow cover. Doing this can add an excellent personal touch and provide some personality to a teenager’s room.

TIP! Tie or cut dangling blind cords. Children and pets have both been known to become tangled in these dangling cords, sometimes leading to strangulation.

If your home renovation project involves work in the bathroom or kitchen, make sure to shut off the water. Whenever you are dealing with pipes, fittings, or fixtures, finding and turning the shutoff valve should be step number one. This step will help you prevent a flood.

You should put windows in the bathroom for more ventilation. Without ventilation, the humidity from the shower makes your bathroom the perfect environment for mold. Even applying paint to the walls will not completely remove the mold. Rather, take preventative steps aimed at keeping it from developing in the first place. Add a window or some type of ventilation in order to cut down the humidity.

You can improve your basement by staining the floor. Staining concrete floors is less costly than replacing them, and it looks very stylish. Stained concrete is also easier to keep clean, as it is less porous. Go with something that will make the floor shiny. Your floor will look classier than ever.

TIP! Do you want an elegant upgrade to your home that doesn’t break the bank? There are many little changes you can make around the house, but the simple act of putting in a new doorbell assembly can add a huge change with little work. Completing this small project will give your front door an entirely new atmosphere.

Almost all supplies that are used in projects concerning home improvement are targets for a thief. Keep your materials in a secure location when you are not actively using them. If the house being worked on is secure you can leave them inside. When the home isn’t secure, it is nice to have a locked storage unit.

Start thinking about ideas on how you would like to improve your home. Start planning ahead of time to compare as many different ideas as possible. You’ll be much less stressed during your project if you don’t feel rushed.

When painting the exterior of your home, it is very important to buy high-quality paint. By choosing a paint which is superior in quality, your paint job will last much longer. Although higher quality paint does cost more, it is going to last longer and cover your home surface easier and faster. If you choose a low-quality paint, you will probably have to paint your house again a few years from now.

TIP! Safety precautions are the first consideration when planning a home renovation. These precautions will help insure that neither you nor your home are harmed.

If you have nearby neighbors, you may want to consult with them about your plans for home improvements before making a schedule for work. It can be irritating to live next someone partaking in a construction project. You will enhance neighborly goodwill by letting your neighbors know what will be going on so they are not unpleasantly surprised or inconvenienced.

When you are remodeling your home, do your plumbing and electrical projects first. These repairs usually require holes to be drilled into walls and floors, so it is best to do these repairs before others such as wallpapering or laying new flooring. If you have your walls open already it will make it easy to do any other renovations.

Installing new ceramic tile in the kitchen or bath can be quick and easy. Consider unique and colorful designs, or a solid scheme that will complement the rest of the room with chic style. This home improvement project can really increase the decor of your home.

TIP! The high costs of replacing carpeting in your entryway and hallways is rarely justifiable. High traffic carpet areas will be dirtier and more worn after mud and rain exposure.

The constant pressure can cause the bristles to bend and crack, which wears them out more quickly. Rather than setting the broom on the floor, buy a hook from which to hang it. That way, the bristles stay straight, and the life of the broom is significantly extended. In addition, hang mops in such a way that they can dry thoroughly so that mildew does not form.

Turn the gas off before doing any work near those pipes. The fact that you do not smoke does not guarantee you will not create a spark. Keep in mind that you might let some gas loose while moving lines, even if they are not open.

Homes with updates tend to sell quicker than older homes with little renovations. You can’t find a solitary home improvement project that will have a greater impact on your home’s value than a well-executed kitchen renovation. You will also recoup the bulk of the investment you make, too.

TIP! When trying to choose what home improvement projects to tackle, and you aren’t sure where to begin, think about using a professional who specializes in home design. In addition to making sure you get the most for your money, they also will help give your home style.

Door Handles

When did you last look over every door handle in the home you live in? Changing to brass hardware and door handles can improve the look of your home. Take a look at your door handles for each room, and switch them with brass door handles to really bring out a change.

Before giving the inside of your cabinets a thorough cleaning, swipe the vacuum cleaner in there first. That will help you tackle loose dirt. Use soap and water to scrub your shelves and cabinets clean. Start at the highest point and move down as you clean. After cleaning, replace the cabinet liners and work on repairing any sagging shelves.

TIP! Re-caulking your windows is a great home improvement project that will lower your energy costs, as well as prevent damage to your home. In addition to the obvious insulation improvements, this can also prevent moisture from seeping in and stimulating mold growth.

Invest some time in getting ready to undertake your home improvement project! For instance, if you are going to be painting the interior of a room you must gather material to cover your possessions or clear the room completely before painting. If paint gets splattered onto the furniture it could ruin it permanently. Old sheets or drop cloths will easily protect your furniture from any damage while painting.

It takes a lot of research and work to become good at home improvement, no matter how good you might think you are at it. There is always more to learn, whether it is new tricks or building skills. If you use the tips in this article, you are going to be a master.

To avoid excessive repair bills ensure storm water does not flow towards your walls. Ways to do this include putting a hill between your house and the stress, and making your downspout longer so the water exits further away.

TIP! Putting in hand rails can help with safety and add to the beauty of a home. You can install them in your entry way, on sidewalks or on your deck.

by Ted

Benefit From A Better Home With These Home Improvement Tips

The idea of starting and finishing home improvement projects intimidates a lot of people. If you educate yourself on what you are doing, however, you will find success. Continue reading to learn some tips on how to perform any home improvement project you desire.

A beginner’s tip for home improvement is to think about what you personally want to accomplish. Add your own tastes to any improvement project.

When doing home improvement work, one of the most important tools to have is a drill. You can make holes and drive screws of any size. Choose at least a nine-volt drill with a variety of attachments.

TIP! Think about adding insulation during your next round of home improvements. Use weather stripping along all the exits to the outside world.

When doing exterior home improvements, consider your neighborhood. A house that has a style completely different from those surrounding it may be problematic. A home that blends into the neighborhood is going to have a better resale value.

Anyone who owns a home can fix their own faucets which leak. When you can respond to issues like this promptly, you reduce water waste and the potential for damages. The savings you get from this will add up since your water bill will go down.

Update the look of your teen’s room by making their pillows look great. You can use old t-shirts with neat designs, band shirts, or even jeans to cut and sew into pillows. These are great additions to any teen’s room and offer a boost of personality.

TIP! Downspouts, gutters and chimneys often do not get the attention they deserve in an annual maintenance schedule. It is important to inspect these aspects of your home to make sure they are functioning properly, and to make any necessary repairs.

When you decide to begin a home improvement project, know how much work is required. Create a list of all the tasks you must take care of. You should also consider getting a second opinion to make sure you haven’t missed important details. You will save money if you have a clear picture of everything that needs to be done.

Do not forget that you need to have proper ventalation in your bathroom. You do not want to get stuck with unnecessary mold growth due to the humidity from the hot showers. Painting only covers mold up, it doesn’t eliminate it. It is better to make a change to prevent it from forming in the first place. Vents and windows can effectively dehumidify the space.

Don’t neglect the bathroom when you’re going to sell your house. Bathrooms are more expensive to update than living rooms or bedrooms, and potential buyers can definitely be turned off by having to spend a lot of money updating one. Replace any worn or outdated tub, shower or sink. Replace linoleum flooring with tile.

TIP! Using the right type of lighting in any room makes a big difference in how it looks. Bright rooms feel much warmer to the homeowners and visitors.

Use fruits and flowers to brighten up your kitchen. Also, beautiful flowers and a bowl of fruit can help to rejuvenate your kitchen. These inexpensive ideas will make your kitchen look brighter instantly. Viewing a vase of freshly cut flowers brightens up any day.

You can easily make your entrance look better and safer by replacing the knob on your door. This particular project requires less than one of your hours. The only tool you will need is a simple screwdriver. Then pick up a new knob and get the job done.

Give your porch an “up” as well. A porch is highly visible to the public and gives a lasting first impression to guest visiting your home. Keep your porch clean and add tasteful enhancements. Flowers, nice furniture and great lighting can be used to dress up an otherwise boring and bland porch. These simple improvements raise the overall value of your home.

TIP! You will get what you paid for when you buy a good door. The door will be seen by every visitor you have.

Refinish your hardwood floors to increase the value of your home. While a large project, refinishing isn’t hard. Instructional classes can often be found at your local hardware store, as can the equipment you will need to rent. The cost will be cheaper when you do it yourself.

Setting your budget for home improvement projects or major renovations during the early parts of the year is generally a good idea. Thanks to the holidays, your resources during these months are rather limited. The reason for this is sometimes more money creates more stress, so you can ease the problem by budgeting during the first few months of the year.

In a home improvement project that involves bricks, it is a wise investment to buy extra bricks. These extra bricks will come in handy if you need to make some repairs since it will be very hard to find new bricks that correspond to the ones you used. There are frequent changes in styles of brick. Buying as many bricks as you can will make it easier to match them in the future.

TIP! If you require your improvements done quickly, you’ll need to pay up. Contractors will usually be eager to work harder on a project.

Ceiling Fans

Put in some ceiling fans in the rooms you use the most in order to have proper air circulation throughout your home. Fans can instantly cool a room during the warm summer months and can be used in the winter to push the heated air downward. Most ceiling fans can be switched to force the air up or push it down, depending on what is needed at the time.

Personalize your home, but don’t make it too different from the other houses in the area. Going to far in your renovations might be great for TV, but it’s not useful for much else. Outlandish things like that can make it tough for you when you wish to sell the house.

TIP! Want to spruce up your dining room? Sand down your dining table and try refinishing it. Though the job is time-consuming the results are worth it.

Have you really took notice of your door handles lately? By cleaning or changing the door handles, you can easily change up the look in your home. Switch out the door handles in your house and put in some brass handles.

You might have thought it might be hard to do home improvements on your own. However, if you absorbed the information from this article, you can give yourself the necessary skills to help you handle some projects on your own.

You should drain the water heater twice a year. By keeping your hot water heater drained regularly, it will run much more efficiently and last longer. Just put a hose on the drain value and release the water.

TIP! Always accentuate your home’s unique selling points. Don’t block any spectacular views or hide any elegant fixtures.