How To Kill Termites Effectively

There's no need to move to another town just because termites have started nesting in your home. There are ways and methods to learn how to kill termites as well as various companies that will do it for you. Know how to kill termites now and save your property.

Detecting Termites

Learning how to kill termites should not be the concern of homeowners with existing termite problems alone. Even if you do not have a problem yet you should also know how to kill termites. This is because termites can survive almost anywhere. If your house has wooden components in it and you have moist surroundings, then you are in danger of termite infestation.

Some cases of termite infestation may not be easily detected unless the damage has been done. It would therefore be a sensible idea to be watchful of winged termites, mud tunnels or hollowed wood that may all indicate the presence of termites.

Consulting Experts

In some cases, we may be tempted to perform the termite inspection and control ourselves. There is nothing really wrong with doing things yourself but asking experts to inspect your property and apply effective treatments is the rea5B4l answer to the question of how to kill termites. Extermination companies know better how to kill termites and stop them from coming back. Your only real task is to find a good company. You can do that by asking people you trust to recommend you one and comparing prices and services before choosing one.

Pre Treatment

Contractors know the right methods and techniques for pre treatment in order to prevent termite breeding. Before building a home, you can have your soil and wood pre treated with chemicals. You can also talk to your contractor about making sure that wooden parts and structures are safely elevated from the soil.

Baiting

The newest method of killing termites effectively is by baiting. Exterminators who use this method may use wooden monitors to first attract termites and then replace the monitors with treated ones. Treated baits contain chemicals that can be ingested by workers and taken back to the colony. Once fed to the other members, the treatment can inhibit molting and can eventually result in the death of colony members.

Chemical Barrier

Another method used by exterminators is the chemical barrier. In this method, trenches and hole may be made on the areas surrounding the foundation. The trenches can then be filled with chemicals that can prevent termites from reaching the house or returning to the soil. Non-repellent chemicals may also be used and when ingested can result in termite5AA death.

Tenting

Tenting is a complicated and aggressive answer to how to kill termites. As the name suggests, it involves enclosing the house in a tent and fumigating it. Of course, this would mean vacating the house and taking with you any edible items or medications that may be contaminated. The extermination company will usually inform you what you should remove from the house and what else you should do. Common sense also says that you should inform your neighbors about your tenting procedure so they can keep away from the area.

Discover how to kill termites effectively. For the top do it yourself termite control, trust only the advice of experts.

Tuckpointing

Tuck pointing is a growing industry. It has been around for thousands of years, but has become much more popular in the past ten years. This has spawned a number of innovations.

Originally, brick/stone masons would hammer and chisel out the mortar as needed. Then rinse away their dust allowing the new mortar to stick. After preparing the cracks for re-pointing, these masons would mix up new mortar to replace the old cracked mortar. At this point, they used a hopper or a trowel to hold their mortar, and a pointing trowel or a tuck-pointing trowel to push the mortar into the chiseled mortar-joint. After allowing the mortar to dr1C84y to a proper texture, these mortar-joints are tooled and brushed clean.

In todays market, tuck pointing is considerably different. We no longer have to hammer and chisel the mortar-joints to open the cracks up for repair. Most companies use an angle grinder fitted with a diamond-carbide blade prepared for the purpose of removal of the mortar. This innovation allows us to cut the mortar-joints out deeper and faster than had typically been done prior. This depth is about to of an inch deep, and allows for a better bond into the wall. This still requires the dust to be rinsed away to improve the ability to stick or bond in. In recent years, the new mortars are blended to match the original mortar of the masonry work. Note that not all companies are offering Custom Color Matched Mortars. (For companies that offer the Custom Color Matched Mortar System copy and paste this in your search bar). We also no longer need to use the pointing-trowel or tuck pointer to install the new mortar. This industry has adopted a tool used for grouting tile. It is called a grout bag, and it allows for more speed and accuracy when injecting the new mortars/grout into the mortar-joints. The mortar is still allowed to dry to a desired texture, then tooled and brushed clean.

Each of these new tools and processes has made this service faster, stronger, and more desirable. There are books and other reports available at http://alamomasonryrepair.com/products.htm which will help you to locate quality contractors in your area or guide you through the process of doing the project yourself.

James Nech is a Masonry Repair Contractor in the Dallas / Fort Worth area. His company has repaired thousands of homes restoring them to their original beauty. When he is not repairing Brickwork or other masonry he can be found talking or writing about it. For more articles on brick repair visit his website at http://www.alamomasonryrepair.com

Granite Tile Basics

If you want to know all about granite including the basics, key characteristics and the processing manner, this article will prove to be quite informative for you.

Granite is a natural stone that looks extremely beautiful and provides ultimate alternative for interior and exterior decoration. The stone is beautiful to look at and practical to use. People love to install it due to its durability and classy look.

When it comes to the origins of this stone, you would be surprised to know that granite is formed deep inside the earth due to the extreme heat and pressure appF8Flied by the atmosphere over thousands of years. The stone can be defined as an igneous rock formed due to the pressure applied to liquid magma between other layers of rock. Thereafter it cools and forms a layer of its' own.

The rock is amalgamated with different elements such as feldspar, mica and quartz. The process of cooling process is very slow. The suspended mineral elements inside the magma result into the crystalline look of granite. Granite is hard in nature due to the harsh origins and lengthy process that suspends several stabilizing elements within it. You can vouch for the durability of this stone.

As soon as the raw granite is removed from its bed, the first stage of granite processing starts and the stage is known as cutting. Here, the large portions of granite into manageable blocks. Thereafter, these blocks of granite are cut to size so as to utilize them as slabs and tiles with the help of wire saws treated with different types of durable abrasives such as sand, diamond and aluminum oxide.

High pressure water jets are also used to cut the granite in tandem with traditional wire saws. As soon as the process of cutting is accomplished, the stone undergoes three more processes that make them look like tile flooring or countertop slabs. The stone is polished on one side, calibrated and gauged.

Once the processes are over, the stones are ready to be used as tiles and slabs. Most commonly these tiles are used as kitchen installation and outdoor installation. The leftover granite tiles are used as cutting boards, coasters and fireplace surrounds.

If you want to care the granite tile flooring and countertops, the process is very simple. The stone is heat-resistant and works as worry-free countertop solution. You can use hot pots and plates on the surface of this stone directly. The granite tile is durable. However, it still requires your attention. You should consider the application of an appropriate sealant seriously. Consult a specialist to determine the variety of granite tile you want to install. The sealant acts as a protective coat for your granite tile. It protects the tile from moisture. You can purchase different types of cleaners and polishes to keep your granite tile free of dirt and scratch.

We, at BBM Impex are dedicated to represent the nation's treasure of natural stone. visit Granite supplier & exporter.

I am freelance writer, I have written on many fields that are under the sun. I have passion to play with words. Accuracy, clarity and impact are the hallmarks of my work.

I am not a "Shakespeare", and don't have ability to convert imagination and thoughts into words, If I have to define myself in a few words, I would say I am a copywriter, I have good command over research, expertise to explore extensively and ability to prove that. I can write on any subject, from beauty to intellect, food to travel, paradise to Hades, flowers to nuclear bombs, rainbow to Tsunami, pen to sword, Britney sphere to Halen Keller, Tumors to Health and fitness, celibacy to Seduction. You can also find some of my articles at Freelance SEO Copywriter and Article Ghost Writer

Reglaze a Bath Tub

Bathtub not looking as good as it should? Are you stuck with one of those outdated colors of the 1970's? With a few simple preparations and a lot of patience, you can learn how to reglaze a bathtub and save yourself the hassle of buying and installing a new tub.

Of course, you'll want to make sure that you work safely. Since refinishing a bathtub involves chemicals, some of which are toxic, make sure that you ventilate the area well before beginning. Also, protect yourself with a ventilator, safety goggles and gloves. Once protected, gather your supplies and get going! Give your tub a cursory cleaning and remove any loose caulking and gaskets.

Most bathtub refinishing kits come with several chemicals. The first two are chemical cleaning solutions that will remove soaps and oils from the surface of the tub and prepare it for the primer. Most kits require you to clean the tub with the first solution, scrubbing the tub with sandpaper, usually 220 or 240 grit. Once the tub is thoroughly scrubbed, rinse away any residue.

The second cleaning solution is applied next, usually with a specially designed cleaning pad that also scores, or roughs, the surface of the tub. This second step removes any remaining oil or soap and also provides "grab" for the primer. Rinse the tub again and dry with an old towel or paper towels.

The third solution in the kit is a primer reducer, a solvent that removes any remaining residue and prepares the surface for the primer. Carefully apply the reducer with paper towels. After this, repair any damage to the tub's surface and drain area with putty and allow to dry. After about 30 minutes, sand the repaired areas smooth with a fine grit sandpaper, clean with the primer reducer and dry.

It is time to mask the area around the bathtub that will not be refinished. Carefully apply tape and paper to the areas around the tub, burnishing any tape with your fingernail or a credit card to assure a good seal.

Next, you'll apply the base coat to the tub. Remember to wear your respirator for this part of the process, and make sure that your area is properly ventilated. Following the manufacturer's directions, mix the primer's components exactly and use a spray gun to apply to the bathtub. Allow the primer to dry for at least 30 minutes before applying the top coat.

Mix the paint for the topcoat following manufacturer's instructions. Apply the topcoat using the spray gun with even strokes. This topcoat will take about 48-72 hours to completely cure. Reglazing your bathtub can be a cost effective way to dramatically update your bathroom!

Claire Bowes is a successful Webmaster and publisher of bathtub remodeling. Claire provides more information on her site about bathtub refinishing and designs.

A New Bathroom Vanity Can Transform the Room

It may be time to remodel, or give your hallway bathroom with the 1970's decor a facelift. Perhaps you just want a design change to reflect your personal style. Whatever reasons you may have for tackling your bathroom asDF4 the next home improvement project, one of the most important furniture pieces you will need to select with care is a single bathroom vanity or a double bathroom vanity. The bathroom vanity tends to be the focal point or centerpiece in any bathroom so finding the right one is important.

Before you get started on your bathroom home improvement project, take the time to measure the space you will have for all your fixtures. If you are replacing the shower and toilet, measure these spaces and the size of the new fixtures you would like to put in their place. When measuring for your bathroom vanity, you will want to decide if you would like a single bathroom vanity or a double bathroom vanity. If you have a small space to work with or only one person uses the lavatory each day, a single vanity will be the obvious choice. However if you have the space, a double vanity is always a luxurious upgrade for your bathroom especially if more than one person at a time will be using it everyday.

Another thing to keep in mind when remodeling your bathroom is the interior design theme you are trying to create. When choosing a new bathtub, sink, vanity, or even the plumbing fixtures, consistency with a design theme is key. Whether you like antique, rustic wood, traditional, or contemporary styles for your new bathroom make sure that all elements work together to create a cohesive look. Nothing feels worse than spending all the money, time, and effort on re-doing your bathroom only to be dissatisfied with the final result because it just doesn't all work together.

There are many places to find vanities and such for your project, but one of the best places to find the lowest prices for your bath and shower fixtures or for discount bathroom vanities is online. If you take your time to find the right online company to do business with, you can find the best price for your new vanity, as well as get added discounts like free shipping or other incentives. Shopping online also helps you save time and energy, because you never have to leave home to find the perfect bathroom furniture and fixtures.

So no matter what reason you have for remodeling your bathroom make sure you do your homework to find the best bathroom vanity and other fixtures that may need replacing. Measure the space you have to work with in your bathroom decide on the decor theme you want to create with your bathroom facelift, and try shopping online for your bathroom vanity, shower, bathtub, and other accessories online for the best prices.

If you would like more information on bathroom vanities online, single bathroom vanities or double bathroom vanities, please visit Premiere Vanities.

How to Replace a Circuit Breaker

It is always a good idea to have each circuit breaker clearly labeled. This prevents confusion and frustration in the event that one needs to be reset or replaced. You can begin labeling the circuits by turning them off and on to see which appliance it is connected to. Circuit breakers consist of the main power supply to your home as well as individual circuits for appliances within your home.

Learning how to replace a circuit breaker or install a new circuit breaker is a little more complicated than merely resetting a tripped breaker. Firstly, you should purchase a new circuit breaker from a home improvement or hardware store. Before installing a circuit breaker you should turn the main power breaker off to shut down power to the entire house.

You can remove the gray circuit breaker panel by unscrewing the faceplate. You will see two wires on the side of the breaker; be careful to remember what position each wire is in as you remove the panel. You can use a wire nut to hold and bend back the wire that you will use later on. Repeat this process for both the white and colored wires. After removing the old breaker box simply reinstall the new circuit breaker box and replace the wires in the same manner in which they were previously installed.

Installing a circuit breaker box is a seemingly simple task. Even if you are not technically inclined, you should still be able to perform this task. If, however, you are uncomfortable in dealing with electrical issues, it might be wise to consult with an electrician. All electricians know how to replace a circuit breaker and it is not very time consuming for them, and so it should not be expensive for you, and might save you some unnecessary frustration.

Circuit Breakers Info provides detailed information about circuit breaker panels, circuit breaker manufacturers, plus advice on how to replace and install circuit breakers and where to buy used and surplus circuit breakers. Circuit Breakers Info is the sister site of Electricians Web.

How to Replace a Circuit Breaker

It is always a good idea to have each circuit breaker clearly labeled. This prevents confusion and frustration in the event that one needs to be reset or replaced. You can begin labeling the circuits by turning them off and on to see which appliance it is connected to. Circuit breakers consist of the main power supply to your home as well as individual circuits for appliances within your home.

Learning how to replace a circuit breaker or install a new circuit breaker is a little more complicated than merely resetting a tripped breaker. Firstly, you should purchase a new circuit breaker from a home improvement or hardware store. Before installing a circuit breaker you should turn the main power breaker off to shut down power to the entire house.

You can remove the gray circuit breaker panel by unscrewing the faceplate. You will see two wires on the side of the breaker; be careful to remember what position each wire is in as you remove the panel. You can use a wire nut to hold and bend back the wire that you will use later on. Repeat this process for both the white and colored wires. After removing the old breaker box simply reinstall the new circuit breaker box and replace the wires in the same manner in which they were previously installed.

Installing a circuit breaker box is a seemingly simple task. Even if you are not technically inclined, you should still be able to perform this task. If, however, you are uncomfortable in dealing with electrical issues, it might be wise to consult with an electrician. All electricians know how to replace a circuit breaker and it is not very time consuming for them, and so it should not be expensive for you, and might save you some unnecessary frustration.

Circuit Breakers Info provides detailed information about circuit breaker panels, circuit breaker manufacturers, plus advice on how to replace and install circuit breakers and where to buy used and surplus circuit breakers. Circuit Breakers Info is the sister site of Electricians Web.

Designing the Ultimate Game Room - Ideas To Get Started

Many people would love to be able to create and have their ultimate game room. When you spend a lot of time entertaining others or you enjoy having extra space in your home to relax and have fun, a game room can be a great way to be able to have room for the kind of activities you love to do. If you really want to design the ultimate game room, you need to have the right ideas to get started. Here are some ways that you can begin the planning and renovating process.

Turning your game room ideas into a reality will take a list of things that you want to include in your new room. Think of this as the ultimate Christmas List that will contain all of your wildest dreams in a game room. Maybe you want to have video games that you can play over and over or an old-fashioned pool table. Think about your favorite images of a game room and then make a list of the elements you like most about the room. This is not a time to think about price or feasibility, but rather just to find out what you really want to do.

Ultimate Game Room

Next, you need to create a budget that is realistic for your life. For many people, they will begin with the cheaper parts of creating an ultimate game room, like the flooring and the wall coverings. As this process progresses, they will begin to add pieces that add dcor and then the actual game playing pieces. Unfortunately, you will not have your game room up and running by the weekend, but you will eventually have the room of your dreams it just may take a little longer.

Don't forget to add the luxuries that make an ultimate game room a place all your friends talk about. For example, add in a bar and a keg cooler or a place for a refrigerator for snacks. You want to think about all the things you might want down in that room and then figure out ways to add them. A leather couch and a flat screen TV will help you entertain friends that aren't actively playing games, but will ensure they are having a good time.

This article was written by Gregg Hicks of http://www.reliableremodeler.com which provides Internet-based home improvement information and services. Offering homeowners a simple, quick, and free way to access, qualified home improvement remodeling contractors.

Austin Remodeling

One of the many wonderful aspects of the Austin, Texas real estate market is the variance you will find amongst properties found within the city of Austin. While many large national tract home builders have entered Central Texas, the actual city of Austin still maintains its wide array of choice and design for home buyers. Throughout the city, especially in such areas as Tarrytown, Cat Mountain, Westlake, Hyde Park, and others, remodeling, and even complete tear downs have become increasingly popular. As a buyer or seller considering such a project in today's marketplace, you must be careful to avoid certain pitfalls.

Unlike what you may have seen on television shows which glorify and oversimplify the process, remodeling a home with the intent of profiting in the near future takes careful planning and discipline. The most important decision you will make is picking a property in which you can not only add value, but also one in which there will be demand for when the time comes to sell. Help differentiate your investment by looking for certain features that are both unique and highly desirable for your particular market. A great example in Austin is a property with a view of Lake Austin or the hill country. School districts can help differentiate your property as well. Affordable remodeled homes in the Eanes school district historically have a very low days on market.

Getting a number of bids from licensed contractors and selecting contractors that you trust is extremely important. Ask for references and for examples of past work. Since time is money, find out how long it is truly going to take to finish the remodel. Do not take everything said at face value until you can validate it. Since many times financing is involved, you will need to understand the process of draws and the lender's inspectors that will validate certain work is completed before releasing funds. While this may seem burdensome, it may allow you to sleep better knowing that certain things are being completed to a lender's satisfaction. It is important to understand the budget and to be aware of where cost overrides could potentially occur and what you will do if there is one. Having some type of buffer in place is much more advantageous than being tapped out to the last penny.

Before moving forward with a remodel, be certain you know the true market value of the property in its current untouched condition. Unfortunately, making a strong investment decision isn't as simple as weighing your predicted future value versus your original cost of investment plus remodel cost. You must also look at such factors as realistic carrying cost of the debt, taxes, construction time, in addition to factors affecting possible future market conditions, such as current market supply versus demand, trends for the future, etc. Simply remodeling doesn't guarantee profits. Make smart decisions and consider all of your risk prior to moving forward with any remodel. Remodeling for the sake of remodeling is a risk you don't need in today's market.

Donald Plunkett is President of Congress Realty, a flat fee listing company which serves Austin and many other markets in the Western United States. His company is a member of over 50 MLS systems. More info: http://www.congressrealty.com

French Country House Plan - How To Get It Right And How To Screw It Up

French Country is a popular home design style nowadays, both exterior and interior. This article addresses the French Country home design style on the exterior.

WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT?

Do you think that French Country, or the effected Country French, is a home design style? We'd say, "Not exactly."

French Country is a range of home design styles

1. From an early French farmhouse to not quite a French embassy

2. From residential design styles, including but not limited to Rustic French, Rural French, French Provincial, French Eclectic, Chateau (French version of the English Manor House), and the namesake French Country

3. From in-between Cajun style and Louisiana Plantation style

4. From the time period in America bracketed roughly by WWI and WWII

Comment: There is a stylistic kinship of sorts with other home home styles that are casually (and incorrectly) taken as singular and not as a set. For example, American Victorian is a/k/a (Victorian, in each instance) 2nd Empire, Gothic, Italianate, Queen Anne, Folk, Stick, Shingle, and Richardsonian (Romanesque). Or for example, Southern Colonial ranges from Warburton House (1680) in James City County, VA or Christ's Cross (a/k/a Cris Cross) (circa 1690) in New Kent County, VA and simpler, all the way up to Bacon's Castle (1650) in Surry County, VA and Stratford Hall (1725) in Stratford, VA [noting that other examples abound either standing, or artistically ca1653ptured earlier-on or reproduced, the author having chosen these for their geographical and temporal proximity, Post-Medieval English roots, and breadth of character].

You'll find beaucoups publications about French Country on Amazon.com and at your local bookstore. To wit, along with a slew of other design-oriented books, a while back we ordered Provencal Inspiration: Living The French Country Spirit by Home Planners, and immediately received a notice that Amazon's out of stock. French Country is back bigtime. As another, more recent example, our just completed custom house plans in French Country Style for a property in Asheville, NC will be offered later this year at $4+ million [and the facades really do have a rural sense to them].

French Country style reminds us more than most of Craftsman style multiple roof slopes; windows of different sizes and heights; broad overhangs and soffits; knee braces and other exposures of construction structure; front-facing gables; a mix of gable, clipped gable, shed, and hip roofs; natural materials; masonry exterior, especially stone; a mix of finish clads; restraint in exterior accessories and adornments. French Country style can be comfortable and inviting in its more relaxed presentations.

However, French Country home design departs from the Arts & Crafts Movement in several respects: high-peaked, steeply sloped roofs at pitches way above Craftsman's; a refinement in exterior trim particularly in rakes; an understatement of observable structure; gutter systems sometimes with gussied-up copper appointments; curved rooflines to accommodate steep slopes, larger windows, unpierced ceilings and interior walls; broad soffits; arches and curve-topped dormers, elaborated ironwork; balconies; turrets; Classic columns; masonry accessories in relief, some interest in symmetry, etc. Simplicity and elegance.

There are ways to botch French Country home design, e.g., hold rooflines to one pitch to assure consistent soffit depth and single-level eaves in the name of cheap, easy, and stylistically insensitive; apply Corinthian columns in lieu of, say, Tuscan, or flute the Tuscan columns; confuse French styling with English, unbalance vertical and horizontal to favor horizontal; not mullion grouped windows, not apply true French casement windows; use plastic shutters, S-dog the shutters, not apply true French doors, asphalt shingle the roof, insist on broad facia and frieze boards, etc.

And there are ways to develop French Country home plans by using - contemporary technologies, among them, e.g., cost-efficient cultured stone, particularly in its fieldstone representations perhaps by Owens Corning; and by using artistry, e.g., the half-round copper gutter systems of A. B. Raingutters, Inc., Classic Gutter Systems, L.L.C., the gas or electric luminaires of Charleston Lighting Company or the aluminum wrought-like railing of Southeaster Architectural Metals, the garage doors of the Carriage House Door Company, and the like.

French Country style encourages applying design principles of excellent residential design, such as, Russell Versaci's Creating a NEW OLD HOUSE: Yesterday's Character For Today's Home, The Taunton Press, 2003, and Jacobson, Silverstein, and Winslow's Patterns of Home: The Ten Essentials of Enduring Design, The Taunton Press, orig. 1941, reprint 2002; and, separately, sacred geometry. Here again, you can embrace and succeed or disregard and fail in the design effort.

Take, for example, the layering and other arrangement of finish clad, notably in steeply sloped gable ends. In Versaci's realm of signaled, or suggested, age, it is the wise designer who specifies supposedly older, heavier (looking) materials fieldstone and the like from grade up to, say, L1, and then some lighter material higher up. Such arrangement and layering would be particularly in-keeping with more steeply sloped roof gable ends which would most unlikely be originally run up 2 stories under high, hard to support roof pitches. That is, L2 should and would appear to be of more recent vintage than L1, and presenting a story of age without such attention to detail is to send the gift horse packing.

Finally, in the vernacular of Patterns of Home, again for example, the French Country style readily lends itself to creating a courtyard, or "Creating Rooms, Outside", and to dormered space demonstrating design keystones of "Refuge and Outlook" under a "Sheltering Roof," particularly if the rooflines are low-profiled and trimmed more simply on L2 than on L1.

Before The Architect designs and drafts custom home plans nationwide. Its principals Ralph and Jean Pressel have worked hands-on together since the 60's in custom home design, drafting, consulting, plus building and repair in every major trade. The e-book Home Design Standards - Home Building Standards and the website http://www.beforethearchitect.com are enterprises of Before The Architects principals.

Vinyl Shutters - Home Improvement Spruce-Up With A Shutter Installation

Incorporating vinyl shutters into your home interior design transforms you into a master manipulator of light and shadow, while outdoor vinyl shutters add color and brightness to the exterior of your family's living quarters. A dramatic improvement in curb appeal is one of the main benefits of a quality vinyl window shutter installation.

Revamping Windows With Interior Vinyl Shutters

Interior vinyl shutters are a favorite among do-it-yourself remodeling enthusiasts, due to the straightforward installation process. Kits include fully assembled window shutters, except in the case of more sizeable custom shutters. You also receive all the shutter hardware and components needed for a successful DIY project. However, if heavy-duty hinges, screws, hanging strips, and filler strips sound like a foreign language to you, it may be advisable to call in the experts.

Well-crafted vinyl shutters should b2238e manufactured from exterior grade vinyl, with the characteristic smooth finish, that ensures permanent, fresh color without fading, peeling, or scratching. In contrast to wood shutters, these window coverings are not prone to warping, and nasty surface cracks won't appear overnight. Aluminum reinforcements add strength, especially in larger shutters.

Bathroom and kitchen remodeling call for a window treatment suitable for high humidity areas. The moisture resistant properties of vinyl shutters make them ideal companions for the windows in these rooms. Vinyl shutters also sport superb insulation qualities, enhancing energy efficiency. The insulation also contributes to a reduction in outside noise interference.

Interior vinyl shutters are designed for windows of all shapes and sizes. Patio doors and French doors can also be softened with shutters. Look for shutters that brandish blades of a reasonable thickness, especially if the shutter is fairly wide. The tilt bar, which should include an adjustable tension screw, must have a smooth action. The durability of the shutter, and its ease of use, depend largely on this small, yet vital component.

Choose shades and styles that complement your interior paint colors, soft furnishings, and other aspects of your home interior design. If your idea is to install a product with a wood-like appearance, make sure that the louvers are opaque. This will also maximize the light filtering ability of the vinyl shutter.

A Flair Fix With Outdoor Vinyl Shutters

Curb appeal has to do with a variety of factors, such as gardening and landscaping, paint finishes, patio ideas, and awnings. Fixed vinyl shutters have the potential to upgrade the aesthetic appeal of your property drastically, with a minimum of fuss.

If you don't require functional shutters, outdoor vinyl shutters are an inexpensive alternative to wooden shutters. Available in every imaginable hue, these elegant, fixed shutters feature styles such as louvered, raised panel, and board and batten. Modern technology ensures color that remains bright, with no chipping or fading.

Functional, hinged designs for sun protection are also available, but these are only usable during stable, calm weather. Extensive warranties accompany well-crafted, low-maintenance vinyl shutters, attesting to their durability.

Transform a run-down veteran into a vivacious dame, with the magical touch of vinyl shutters.

Awnings-and-Blinds.com - Read the free Sunair Awnings article at Awnings-and-Blinds.com - also by Rika Susan of Article-Alert.com, where she shows you how to develop your turnkey business idea into an Adsense empire.

Copyright of this article: 2006 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.

How to Build a Shed

The easiest way to build a shed in the backyard is to make a trip to the local Lowe's or other hardware shop to purchase a shed-building kit.

Never choose one from a picture in a brochure or from the Internet. When viewing in person, you can check for important quality control details such as thickness of timber, overlap structure of panels, type of wood, whether it is pre-treated with a preservative and the quality of flooring. Thick timber is longer lasting. An overlap structure on wall panels is important to prevent water leakage. It is beneficial for the shed to have been pre-treated with preservative, but in your upkeep you will still want to treat it once a year. Flooring should be thick so that it does not give with the weight of tools and equipment you want to store.

Do not skimp on size or quality, because in the long run, you will be happiest with a large, lasting building.

Before starting, make sure you have a level base on which to build the shed. Otherwise, the wall panels will not line up properly. Double check that you have all necessary building tools for the particular shed-building kit; you will not want to stop mid-project to purchase more tools. Find out if you need permission to erect a small building on your property. Detail an access route for getting large panels and other materials to the site for the shed.

To begin, make sure the land is dry. Excavate a place to put in a concrete floor. If you choose to make the shed above ground, then wood boards are acceptable. Follow instructions and proceed to screw all pieces together in the pre-made holes. Run a frame sealing mastic around windows to prevent weather damage. T

o insulate, either use glass fiber loft insulation or expanded polystyrene slabs covered with wallboards. If the shed needs electrical wiring, be sure to bury cables in the ground or run them high overhead. Wires should never drag along the ground, wall or fence. Call a professional electrician for assistance if you are not familiar with these procedures.

It is possible to build a shed without purchasing the kit. Keep in mind that you are essentially building a box. Begin with the same flooring process- either excavate for a concrete floor or use a wooden floor. A simple shed can take the shape of a lean-to with one large slanted wall nailed to three smaller side walls. If you feel confident in your building abilities, then a more complicated shed would be a four-sided rectangular shed with a pitched roof. To attach the roof, nail the slanted slabs of wood to the upright walls. To finish the project, apply a preservative treatment, and any insulation or electric wiring that is desired.

Keith Kingston is a professional web publisher offering advice on garden sheds and outdoor Storage sheds

Foundation Repair

To begin one first must know, or at the very least admit they may have an issue. I deal with foundation issues, daily. It is my job to know when you have foundation issues. I feel like Doctor Death saying that but Im not really that bad. I have preformed literally hundreds if not thousands of foundation inspections over the years. Saving many people thousands of Dollars in repairs they didnt need.

In order to find out whether the signs you have seen are big trouble, contact a Foundation Repair Company. They usually provide an inspection for free. If you need more detailed information an Engineer may facilitate a report. Either way you must take the first step.

Once an issue has been identified, it is time to choose a company to perform the necessary repairs. This can sometimes prove to be a job in and of itself. Not all contractors are reputable, and selecting the best one can be more than most people bargain for.

I once heard it said Dont Call Him a Cowboy Until Youve Seen Him Ride that is how I feel about Foundation Repair Companies, or any Company for that matter. Just because they can show you high priced commercials with Over the hill Celebrity spokesmen, dont make them a terrific company. Thats not to say cheaper is better either. Because we all know that we usually get what we pay for. A good rule of thumb I use is to exercise caution, dont get so many estimates that you forget the reason why you are getting them, and ask for references. If the contractor hesitates forget them. Someone who is hesitant in providing a reasonable request like references will probably have to create or fabricate some for you.

After you have selected your contractor they may request a deposit. Dont worry this is customary in the Foundation Business. Foundation Repair companies need to purchase building permits and other incidentals prior to starting your project. This usually takes several weeks and some of there manpower to accomplish. That is why they will request a deposit upon signing, and not upon arrival.

I operate Metro Foundation Repair, in the Dallas area. Some of the Foundation Repair contractors here have very good reputations for their Warranties. I even have heard that one contractor in Dallas offers a Lifetime Warranty backed by the Texas Warranty Trust. I cant stress to you enough the importance in research at this point. For example who owns the Foundation Warranty Trust, or what ever it is. Another example is what is the cost for adjusting the piers under the Warranty. Some contractors actually charge money to adjust their work if it fails. Not many Foundation Repair companies provide a fully transferable Warranty. They often charge money to transfer it to a new owner. Some Lifetime.

Travis E. Nech
http://www.metrofoundationrepair.com

I hope I have given you the advice you where looking for. If not send me an email to info@metroleveling.com I will try to answer any questions you have, and point you in the direction you need.

Future Articles will illustrate the differences in Concrete Pressed Piers, and Steel Piers, as well as the concerns raised with using Helical Piers.

Thanks for Reading and I hope you will pass it on.

See What Your Home Remodel Will Look Like Before You Invest

A problem faced by anyone contemplating home improvements, interior decorating, landscaping, or a major remodel of their home with the addition of a second story or a new room is what will the project look like after it is completed.

Technology has now come to the aid of professionals, home handymen, and women by providing software packages that perform and display all aspects of home improvement, decorating, landscaping and even a total remodel of a home.

For the interior designer or decorator these software programs allow you to drag and drop images of interior furnishings such as chairs, tables, sofas, lamps, and buffets. You can even hang pictures on walls and change the flooring. Do you want to know how the room would look if the colors were different? One click and you can see the room in any color you desire. Change window coverings from blinds to drapes, add a chandelier in the dining room, or change your kitchen appliances from white to black and then to silver.

The programs are so detailed that you can see different fabric choices on sofas and the throw pillows that accompany them.

You can see where shadows will appear depending on the style of light fixture that you choose.

Will French doors suit the entry to the family room? Its an expensive exercise to install them and then determine that they do not work with the rest of the dcor. With the software programs available you can add the French doors before you invest!

Will a 20 x 30 foot deck look ridiculous on the back of your home? Will there be enough room for a swing-set and sandbox for the kids if you add a water feature to your landscaping? Should the fence be painted white or left natural? All of these questions can be easily answered by doing your landscaping in virtual 3D reality.

Having a problem visualizing whether your new second story addition would look better with a shingled gable roof or a metal or clay tile mansard design? With the software programs, you can change roof design and/or materials with a click or your mouse.

Homeowners spend tens of thousands of dollars remodeling a kitchen or bathroom and never really know how it will appear until it is completed. Now you can make major or minor modifications to any design without cost.

And, to make viewing your proposed changes ultra convenient the software provides you with 3D viewing, which means you can literally see the room from any angle you choose. How would the room look if you are sitting on the sofa or standing at the entry or in front of the window click your mouse and see what others will see!

There are two basic types of design and planning software available:

1. Software that your purchase and own, that will reside on your computer, in a similar manner to any other computer program.
2. Software that you pay a monthly or yearly service fee, that resides on a companys remote computer server that you manipulate via your computer.

There are advantages and disadvantages to both products.

Additional information on design software. Home improvement, remodel and landscaping information.

Fireplace Spark Guards - A Simple Solution To Protect Your Home

Fireplace safety should be a priority for every homeowner and no where is this more important than in protecting your area from sparks and burning embers with a fireplace spark guard. This article will explain what they are and what they can do to make your fireplace safe.

It's no secret that a majority of house fires are started from sparks coming out of a fireplace. At best they can burn holes in your carpets, rugs, furniture, or anything else nearby. At worst you could be looking at a complete disaster.

A fireplace spark guard wraps around the fireplace opening and prevents dangerous sparks from flying out.

You may be thinking that a spark guard is the same as a fireplace screen, but it isn't.

A fireplace spark guard is a moveable screen that is made from steel roads around the top and sides with a black mesh screen connected to it.

The guard will overlap the fireplace opening to prevent any sparks from coming out the sides. It will also include handles on both sides to help in moving it around.

Because the spark guard can be folded out completely flat instead of the normal curved screens you so often see, there are no embers flying out through the top of the screen.

The difference with guards and fireplace screens is that a fireplace screen is permanently attached to the fireplace. It hangs from a mounted track and slides open and shut.

You can find fireplace arrestors or guards in all types of sizes and styles that will accent any room decor as well as your fireplace.

You can choose ones made from steel, brass, aluminum, gold plated, etc. They can be found online through several different sites that offer up a wide variety of fireplace accessories.

Keep your family and your home safe around the fireplace by utilizing a good fireplace spark guard.

You can learn more about Fireplace Spark Guards as well as much more information on all types of fireplaces and fireplace accessories at http://www.FireplacesA-Z.com

Remodeling For Retirement and Beyond

Statistics show that more and more seniors are wanting to remain in their own homes in the later stages of life, as opposed to being admitted to a seniors home or facility. What this has created, is a demand for a niche market that remodels homes for seniors. This market is dedicated to understand1C66ing and offering remodeling services that cater to the needs of this aging homeowner population. Whether you are wanting to remodel for yourself and/or your partner in preparation for the years ahead, or if you are considering updating your house to make it "senior friendly" for resale, there are particular elements to consider.

Before we head into a list of great remodeling projects to think about, there is one forewarning that should be headed: Although certain remodeling projects can add resale value for a niche market of seniors looking for a home that suits their particular needs and disabilities, take note that too many major renovations in this regard can harm the potential resale value of a home. It is best to err on the side of modesty with your renos, so that you don't alienate future buyers.

Homeowners of any age can benefit by incorporating innovative designs into their home improvement plans, creating not only a stylish environment, but also a safe and comfortable home for years to come. The following are home modification suggestions that can be both stylish and functional for an aging population.

- Widen hallways and doorways for greater mobility. Doorways at least 2-feet-10-inches to 3-feet wide are considerably easier for seniors using a walker or a wheelchair

- Replace treacherous steps outside and inside with elegant tamps. (they don't need to look like they belong in a hospital!) A good designer can streamline function into fashion, and that is what you should be aiming to do. Take note, stairs that are a minimum of 7-inches high and 11-inches wide are the most safe and easiest to climb.

- Remove bathtubs and replace with roll-in showers. If you are working with a home that has two bathrooms try to keep one bath in tact. This is key for resale as you have then optimized one bathroom for seniors and one can remain standardized.

- Other simple bathroom renos include installing a hand-help shower, putting in non-skid strips in the bathtub and replace a standard-height toilet with a taller model.

- Remove carpeting to expose hardwood floors or replace carpeting with floor tile for better wheelchair accessibility.

- Lower cabinets and counter tops to wheelchair height and create spaces beneath these areas for a chair to roll under.

- Evaluate the height of appliances like dishwashers and stoves. Consider raising them to accommodate those with back problems or impaired mobility.

- Find ways to improve lighting throughout the house. Floor level night -lights can be very helpful in preventing a fall. Remember that conventional flip light switches and round doorknobs can present challenges to those with arthritis. Install rocker switches and replace lever-style door knobs with easier alternatives.

- Install doorbells that light up as well as ring, to accommodate hearing impairments.

As you design a remodeling plan, consider that the kitchen and bathroom often demand the most thorough changes. With the rest of the house you want to focus on wheel chair access and good lighting to help with easy mobility from room to room.

Austin Lansing is the Manager of Operations with High Country Realty, an agency that specializes in Blue Ridge real estate. Explore Jasper real estate listings to view beautiful properties in Pickens County and around the North Georgia area.

Is a Sauna Right for Your Home?

Stress is quickly becoming a part of today's fast-paced life. All the pressures you encountered at work, in school, and elsewhere, are better off released from your body. And total relaxation coming from a good sauna experience is what you really need.

But then again because of people's busy lifestyle, finding time to go to a sauna salon becomes harder each day. Well, if you can't go to the sauna, why not let the sauna come to you? There are a lot of modern home saunas a16B6vailable today that can be installed conveniently in one of the available rooms of your house.

The benefits of saunas are not only for the body's total relaxation. It has many health benefits as well. Regular sauna sessions are known to improve a person's cardiovascular health and immune system. A lot of skin disorders are treated by a sauna because it helps in flushing out toxic substances from the body through sweating.

But one of the notable benefits of sauna is in the area of weight loss. Several people can attest that sauna had helped them cut off inches and lose some pounds. Sauna works by melting body fats and turning them into sweat. Also, it is known to speed up one's metabolism, which is very important to ensure the normal function of all body processes.

Home sauna kits can be easy to install. And not much space is required. It can be placed somewhere in the bathroom, or even inside the bathroom closet. But if you have an extra room in the house, preferably adjacent the bathroom, you can join the two together for a real spa experience.

Modern home sauna kits are available in a ready-to-assemble package. For those who can afford it, custom-built sauna baths are the way to go. By custom building, you can specifically design the whole room, considering the space you have, and use the equipments of your choice.

The heat source is the most important element of a sauna. And you have different options. Wood fired heaters are the most popular choice among families who prefers a Finnish-style sauna room. Then there are electric heaters too, which can conveniently be plugged to a regular power outlet. Gas heaters are also used.

So if you need to enjoy a warm, relaxing treat anytime you feel like it, install a sauna right inside your homes. And you will be living healthily and calmly from then on.

Thomas Oak writes articles for http://www.hot-sauna.com/ if you are in the market for a new sauna stop and take a look at all of the latest advancements and information on new saunas and sauna kits for your home.

How Often Should You Renovate Your Home?

For some individuals or families, the fears of cost overruns and lengthy stays in a construction zone are enough to dissuade them from undertaking a major home renovation project.

This could be quite understandable. However, it's a shame because there are a lot of good reasons to renovate. If you like the neighborhood where you live, for example, but feel cramped in a small, outdated kitchen, upgrading may be a better alternative than moving.

A well-planned home renovation could also increase your property value. If your home is older than most in your area, new flooring or other updates can help to bring your home up to par with others on the market. Knowing the basic factors about the renovation process, as well as getting assistance from the professionals involved, helps in avoiding unnecessary expenses and delays.

Plan A Renovation Project In Advance

A home renovation project makes for an opportunity to create the space you've always wanted. In the initial planning stages, draw a list of the things you wish to do. Write down everything you would want to add or change in a room. For instance, you may wish to install a convec5B4tion oven or a larger refrigerator in the kitchen or new flooring and a Jacuzzi tub in the bathroom.

Later, when you get an idea of cost from a professional renovator and from your own research, you can decide which options to keep and which ones are too expensive. To help you better plan your renovation, check on magazines and online home decorating Web sites.

In addition, also visit home shows and home decor shops to see some of the latest innovations in building products, countertops, appliances etc. Take note of product prices and energy ratings as you shop. You may find that certain upgrades will pay for themselves over the long run in terms of energy and water savings. A professional renovator can also be a good source of ideas and product suggestions.

Lastly, look for houses that have been recently renovated and see how the changes made affected the overall feel of the neighborhood. Everyone will appreciate it if the changes you make to the exterior of your house will compliment the architecture of your city block, or neighborhood.

What To do Before Starting Renovation Work

Before starting major home repair work, first take a good look at your own house. Try to respect the main features of its original design. You don't want your work to contradict it too much.

Make sure to check your renovation design against the Building Code and requirements set up by your local government. Some types of cha5ACnges generally do not require any special permits, and these include replacing interior doors, existing plumbing fixtures with similar items, cabinets or countertops without repairing or replacing drywall, or relocating rough utility lines.

The next move is to solicit bids from professional renovators. It is a good idea to get more than one opinion on the best way to proceed with the project and the estimated cost. They will quickly examine the areas you wish to upgrade, along with the items on your wish list in order to give you a complete estimate. They can also advise you if the project requires further design or architectural retooling.

Once you have chosen a professional renovator, it is time to go over your wish list in detail. They will inspect your home to take measurements and ascertain the locations of electrical and plumbing lines. The renovator may be able to offer logistical suggestions on your design such as improving the flow of traffic in a kitchen. If a room requires a change to the electrical wiring or plumbing, they will likely be able to tell you at this point.

A successful home renovation project requires good team effort between you and the professionals that you hire. To ensure a good outcome, you need a clear plan and good communication. Then all that's left is for you to sit back and enjoy the results.

Vanessa A. Doctor from Jump2Top - SEO Company

http://realestatepress.org - Real Estate Press

Bathroom Remodeling For the Luxury of Style

Bathroom remodeling can be your opportunity to express your individual sense of style. If you are remodeling your home, bathroom remodeling will definitely be high on priority. Your bathroom should be comfortable, attractive and functional. Bathroom remodeling becomes more important if you like to spend long time in the bathroom, introspecting and just being with you. After all, bathroom is your comfort zone.

When you think of bathroom remodeling, consider every aspect of it. Right from floor plan and layout to the kind of tiles, roofing, sanitary fittings, accessories and dcor you would want to have in your bathroom.

Hiring a specialized bathroom-remodeling contractor can be a good decision if you want a bathroom thats just perfect and an explicit modern space of your home. These contractors are well experienced in bathroom remodeling and work within the specified budget. Moreover, you dont have to run around to see to the petty issues related to bathroom remodeling since the contractor will give you comprehensive set of services.

Bathroom remodeling can be a very good home investment since it leverages the market value of the house. Whether you like to sell the house or take loan against it, a simple investment like bathroom remodeling can help you get good returns.

One thing you must remember while going for remodeling is that in no case should you compromise with comfort and safety to make space for style and trends. However, if you do thoughtful planning, your bathroom-remodeling plan can have the best of both the worlds.

Natasha
For more tips and details visit http://www.allremodel.com

New Homes Georgetown Texas - Building A Better Home

Georgetown is a growing city that has the real estate to fit each residents needs. Located about twenty minutes from downtown Austin, Georgetown is a small city with developing real estate. Georgetown continues to benefit from the annual population increases in central Texas. This city has become popular for residents looking to avoid crowded town around the city like Pflugerville and Round Rock. Georgetown real estate ranges from apartments to ranch land to master planned communities. All of these home choices are available in and around the Georgetown area.

There are two master planned communities within Georgetown. One is a master planned active adult community that has strict age restrictions on home buyers in their community. This master planned community has private golf courses and fitness centers to make sure their residents are active adults. The other master planned community is a luxurious community with a private championship golf course and world class fitness facilities. Homes range well into the millions and can be as large as 7,000 sq. ft. This is a resort community that offers residents the best amenities to accompany their world class homes.

Town homes around downtown area of Georgetown are very popular. These homes located along Highway 29 and resemble a farm town community where mail men deliver mail to your doorstep each day. Most of the homes in this area were built in the 70s and 80s and provide home owners with a historic living situation. Many of these homes are owned or rented by Southwestern University students. Some of these town homes are smaller and college students benefit from the low cost, close to campus locations.

Apartments and condominiums have become popular in this area. The apartments in the area are located around the downtown area of Georgetown. Apartments in this area give residents a chance to live in a small town, and many tenants are college students. There is one condominium complex within Georgetown. This complex overlooks the San Gabriel River and gives residents the chance to enjoy the environment from their back landing.

Area neighborhoods give Georgetown residents the chance to live within communities and enjoy the communal atmosphere that neighborhoods have. There are many neighborhoods in the Georgetown area. All students are given the chance to attend the public school system and Georgetown High. Georgetown residents understand the history of the town, and the history of the people who built the town. This is why Georgetown has been able to keep its small town atmosphere as the city continues to grow.

For more information about new homes Georgetown Texas as well as new homes Austin Texas, please visit DR Horton.

Anatomy Of A Woodworking Project

Have you ever thought about the process from start to finish of a woodworking project. There is a lot more involved in the process than you think. Most of us skip thru each process not really thinking about how each step affects the overall project.

1. Fill a need

I believe that in all things we do, we want to fill a need. Otherwise, why do them. The need may be basic or secondary. We also may not understand which need is which. The need may be materialistic. You or someone you know, needs a kitchen table, so you build one. But, is that really the basic need? I doubt it. I believe the basic need is more primal than that. Just as we need food, shelter, and clothing, everyone needs an avenue for self expression and a sense of accomplishment. Otherwise, we would buy the kitchen table. It would, in the end, certainly be cheaper.

2. Getting an idea

Where do you get the idea for your next project? Clues are all around us. Sometimes, ideas come from some of the most unlikely places. One word in a discussion can trigger an idea. For some, it may be a specific problem they are trying to solve. Others may be lucky and have the eye of an artist and have the ability to visualize an object. I will a5B4dmit that I am not an original thinker. My ideas usually come via a request from a customer or the desire to change something I have seen to make it my own.

3. From mind to paper

The next challenge is to move this great idea from your mind to paper. My first step is usually a sketch. Then, there is a discussion with the customer. All projects have a customer!! It may be you, a loved one, a neighbor, or if you are really lucky, a bonefide cash carrying customer who is willing to PAY you for your hard work. When there is an agreement on the sketch, my next step is a full size drawing. If at all possible, do not skip this step. There was a time when I felt that 1/4 or 1/2 scale would suffice. But, after completing some full scale drawings,I found it much more comforting to know that I have the exact measurements to work with.

4. Selection and preparation of materials

This is an area where I believe much time and thought needs to be utilized to get it right. The last thing you want, is to complete a project, and then realize the wrong materials were selected. Aesthetics, project location/use, material strength, the mix of materials, and grain are just a few of the things that need to be considered. This is also another area where the customer MUST be consulted.

For traditional furniture, there are any number of books and other publications that can be used.For an original idea, the worl5B4d is your palette.

For the first part of material preparation, I use software. This software is called Cutlist Pro. There is a version available to the hobbyist that costs less than $100.00, and you will quickly recoup that cost. By entering your inventory of materials into

the program and then creating an accurate cut list, the program will design the appropriate cutting procedure using parameters you setup. Depending upon my needs, I will use either the mode that sets up the most efficient use of material or the mode that sets up the easiest cuts.

The first step in the materials preparation process is to bring the material into your shop and let it acclimate for a couple weeks. When you start cutting material, please, cut all material at least 1/4 inch over size and a few inches longer than required. There are many stresses inside a piece of wood and when sawed, these stresses are relieved. You may not see it right away. Let the material sit overnight. You may be surprised at just how much a piece of wood can move. I would also suggest that you consider cutting some extra material to the same dimensions as your parts.

There is always the possibility of an error somewhere in the process. Having dimensioned lumber available will reduce your stress level. Please DO NOT get rid of your scraps until the project is complete.

5. Preparation of equipment.

This is one of the most importan5B4t, but most neglected parts of the project. If your equipment is not maintained and calibrated properly, you will encounter many moments of great frustration. Are your cutting tools sharp? Dull cutting tools cause many of the blood letting accidents in the shop. Inattention to the task at hand has caused many accidents.

Before starting a new project, take the time to ensure that your saws are calibrated properly, so you can get that 90 or 45 degree cut exact. Make sure that cross cut sleds are exact. On mine, the thickness of a piece of painters tape makes the difference between failure and success.

6. Execution

This is the fun part. It is also the part where the most mistakes can be made, in material and in you. Never ever work when you are tired, or are unable to give your full attention to the task at hand. Missing body parts are not worth it.

As the old saying goes, measure twice and cut once. Make sure you cut on the correct side of that inch mark. It is extremely easy to turn a 5 1/4" cut into a 4 3/4" cut. Believe me, I have done it.

Take time with your tools. Do not push them beyond their capability. Wixey makes an angle gauge that will increase your accuracy when setting up a saw to cut any desired angle. Try to use the same ruler throughtout the project. Minute differences in rulers can cause problems when trying to put a project together.

Do not get in a hurry to start gluing t5B4hings together. Always do a dry fit to make sure things line up properly. Make sure your joints are not too tight. Glue will make a tenon expand so it is almost impossible to insert it into its mortise. Making mortise and tenon joints properly, takes time and patience. I usually cut my tenons thick and use a rabbet plane to get them to the proper thickness.

Make sure you have plenty of clamps, but use them judiciously. Improper use of clamps can rack a project out of square. When it is time for the glue-up, take some time to mask areas that may get unwanted glue on them. Try to use only the amount of glue required. Make every attempt to limit squeeze-out of excess glue. There is nothing worse than finding dried glue that will not take a stain. Remove the tape when the glue gets to a stiff consistency.

7. Preparation for Staining and Finishing

This is one of the areas that most woodworkers hate to do. But, it is just as important as the construction portion of the project. This is what everyone is going to see. Using progressively finer grits of sandpaper, the wood needs to be sanded until no perceptible swirl marks are found. For most furniture, 220 grit is about a fine as you need to go during this step.

8. Staining and Finishing

The are many many different forms of stains and finishes. All have their pros and cons. Before applying a stain to your project, take time to test diffe5AFrent products and processes on scrap wood of the same type as the project. Perform the complete finish process on each piece of scrap so you will KNOW what the project will look like when complete. After determining which product and process looks best, do not skip or change any part of the process used on the scrap, when it comes time to finish the project. Small differences in the finishing process can make a drastic change in the look of the complete project.

9. Post finish

Now it is time to really make your project shine. Do not get in a hurry to start this process. Wait until the finish is completely cured before starting this process. Some products will cure over night. Some can take weeks.

You most likely will need to buff or polish your finish to get the silky smooth look and feel of the project surface. Most people will rub the surface of a project to get an impression of how well the finish was completed. There are many oils, powders, and polishes that will create that mirror finish often desired. Please read as many of the different finishing books and brochures as possible to get an understanding of the process.

Now go and show off your hard work to anyone who will listen. Enjoy the moment. Most projects will contain a flaw here and there. Do not point them out when showing off a piece. Most likely, you will be the only one that knows the flaw exists.

Skip Evans
http://www.my-wooden-creations.com

Best Kept Secret in Conserving Water Heating Energy Use

We continue now with our examination of the Energy Efficiency Evaluation Report we received for our house under the ecoENERG5B4Y Grant program. We are learning a lot for our $325 payment to have this energy audit done.

According to a certain big box building materials supply store, this next recommendation is '...about 4 times more cost effective than a solar water heater'.

A new energy saving device is known as a drain water heat recovery (DWHR). This energy conservation device has no moving parts (we like that), consumes no energy itself as it works (we like that even more), requires no maintenance and is sold by many vendors with multi-year (four or more) warranty.

It's a simple concept. Hot water, say from a shower, leaves the house at around 37 degrees C / 110 degrees F through a vertical drain pipe. Cold water at around 11 degrees C / 45 degrees F will come into the hot water tank from the outside to replace the hot water used during the shower. This device is simply a copper drain pipe (through with the used hot water from say the shower leaves the house) with a much smaller copper pipe (through which the colder water comes into the house) wrapped around it.

As the hot used water leaves the house, it warms up the copper piping which then will warm up the incoming cold water to around 25 degrees C / 75 F. This means that the hot water tank does less work, because the fresh water coming into the tank is warm and not cold, as a result of the DWHR device, thus saving energy to heat the water.

The cost is between $600 and $800, p58Alus sales tax and installation, and is available on-line at at least one of the big box stores web sites (and possibly other big box stores), including drain connectors, plus installation cost.

We like this idea a lot because of its simplicity. If you live in Canada, in the northern regions of the Unites States or Europe this device could save you a lot of money off of your water heating bills and conserve energy resources. While useful for a home, this would be extremely useful for hotels, motels, health clubs and the like which use a lot of hot water.

Want more evidence of the viability of drain water heat recovery devices? The ecoENERGY Grant program, run by an Agency of the Canadian Federal Government, offers a grant of $100 to home owners who install this device within the ecoENERGY Grant program.

Interested? Do a search using your favorite internet search engine and find various retailers and distributors for more information.

To read more about the DWHR device, other energy saving recommendations from our energy audit or about our home renovation experiences, simply to go our blog, Daily Home Renovation Tips, using the resource link below.

http://dailyhomerenotips.com/

Copper Weathervanes - A Great Option For Making Your Home Stand Out

You live in the suburbs and the one thing that kind of bums you out about it is that fact that your home looks just like everyone elses. Sure, the uniformed appearance helps with aesthetic appeal of the entire neighborhood, but at the sometime, it can get a little boring. So, if you are searching for a way to make your home stand out from the rest, a beautiful way to do it is with copper weathervanes. They are eye-catching selections that would be an ideal addition to any home.

Copper weathervanes are extremely appealing to the eye because of the beautiful copper that they are crafted from. When purchasing yours, there are two main finishes that you can choose from including polished and antique. The polished finish is one that is very shiny and shows off this materials reddish bronze tone. Now, over time, if you do not apply a lacquer or polyurethane to protect it from the elements, it will weather to a gorgeous verdigris color, which is actually the antique option that was mentioned. If you want yours to have that antique finish right off the bat, you can get ones that are already finished off in that way.

With copper weathervanes, there are many different styles, shapes, sizes, and designs available, which makes it a synch to find something to match where you want to put it and your personality. For example, if you want something for your rooftop and you like things that have a nautical theme, then a great option for you would be one that is in the shape of a schooner or sailboat that is larger in size. Along with being a great choice for the top of your house, this outdoor accessory would also be a nice choice for other spots throughout your space as well. Like you could put one that depicts a peaceful dove in your garden as a nice decorative accent, which would also be a nice addition to any shed back that needs a little sprucing up.

When it comes down to it, there are just a lot copper weathervanes to choose from and some other style available include ones that feature farm animals like chicken, pigs, cows, and roosters, others that have more of a transportation theme like cars, motorcycles, and trains, and you can even get ones that feature garden whimsy scenes including fairies, dragons, and witches. And, those just listed are just some of the options that are available. For a great way to see them all, do not head down to your local garden center or landscape store. Instead, make a b-line for your personal computer and do some online shopping. You can see everything that is available without leaving your home and your selection will even be shipped right to your door. Now, it does not get any easier than that.

So, if you are looking for a way to make your home stand out from everyone elses on your block, a fantastic way to do just that is with beautiful copper weathervanes. One would be a stunning addition to your home and is a great way to break up the monotony in your neighborhood.

Jennifer Akre, a successful business owner of numerous furniture and decor sites, provides the online shopper information on weathervanes and weather vanes. Finish your home in style. You Deserve It - Treat Yourself: copper weathervanes.

See What Your Home Remodel Will Look Like Before You Invest

A problem faced by anyone contemplating home improvements, interior decorating, landscaping, or a major remodel of their home with the addition of a second story or a new room is what will the project look like after it is completed.

Technology has now come to the aid of professionals, home handymen, and women by providing software packages that perform and display all aspects of home improvement, decorating, landscaping and even a total remodel of a home.

For the interior designer or decorator these software programs allow you to drag and drop images of interior furnishings such as chairs, tables, sofas, lamps, and buffets. You can even hang pictures on walls and change the flooring. Do you want to know how the room would look if the colors were different? One click and you can see the room in any color you desire. Change window coverings from blinds to drapes, add a chandelier in the dining room, or change your kitchen appliances from white to black and then to silver.

The programs are so detailed that you can see different fabric choices on sofas and the throw pillows that accompany them.

You can see where shadows will appear depending on the style of light fixture that you choose.

Will French doors suit the entry to the family room? Its an expensive exercise to install them and then determine that they do not work with the rest of the dcor. With the software programs available you can add the French doors before you invest!

Will a 20 x 30 foot deck look ridiculous on the back of your home? Will there be enough room for a swing-set and sandbox for the kids if you add a water feature to your landscaping? Should the fence be painted white or left natural? All of these questions can be easily answered by doing your landscaping in virtual 3D reality.

Having a problem visualizing whether your new second story addition would look better with a shingled gable roof or a metal or clay tile mansard design? With the software programs, you can change roof design and/or materials with a click or your mouse.

Homeowners spend tens of thousands of dollars remodeling a kitchen or bathroom and never really know how it will appear until it is completed. Now you can make major or minor modifications to any design without cost.

And, to make viewing your proposed changes ultra convenient the software provides you with 3D viewing, which means you can literally see the room from any angle you choose. How would the room look if you are sitting on the sofa or standing at the entry or in front of the window click your mouse and see what others will see!

There are two basic types of design and planning software available:

1. Software that your purchase and own, that will reside on your computer, in a similar manner to any other computer program.
2. Software that you pay a monthly or yearly service fee, that resides on a companys remote computer server that you manipulate via your computer.

There are advantages and disadvantages to both products.

Additional information on design software. Home improvement, remodel and landscaping information.

See What Your Home Remodel Will Look Like Before You Invest

A problem faced by anyone contemplating home improvements, interior decorating, landscaping, or a major remodel of their home with the addition of a second story or a new room is what will the project look like after it is completed.

Technology has now come to the aid of professionals, home handymen, and women by providing software packages that perform and display all aspects of home improvement, decorating, landscaping and even a total remodel of a home.

For the interior designer or decorator these software programs allow you to drag and drop images of interior furnishings such as chairs, tables, sofas, lamps, and buffets. You can even hang pictures on walls and change the flooring. Do you want to know how the room would look if the colors were different? One click and you can see the room in any color you desire. Change window coverings from blinds to drapes, add a chandelier in the dining room, or change your kitchen appliances from white to black and then to silver.

The programs are so detailed that you can see different fabric choices on sofas and the throw pillows that accompany them.

You can see where shadows will appear depending on the style of light fixture that you choose.

Will French doors suit the entry to the family room? Its an expensive exercise to install them and then determine that they do not work with the rest of the dcor. With the software programs available you can add the French doors before you invest!

Will a 20 x 30 foot deck look ridiculous on the back of your home? Will there be enough room for a swing-set and sandbox for the kids if you add a water feature to your landscaping? Should the fence be painted white or left natural? All of these questions can be easily answered by doing your landscaping in virtual 3D reality.

Having a problem visualizing whether your new second story addition would look better with a shingled gable roof or a metal or clay tile mansard design? With the software programs, you can change roof design and/or materials with a click or your mouse.

Homeowners spend tens of thousands of dollars remodeling a kitchen or bathroom and never really know how it will appear until it is completed. Now you can make major or minor modifications to any design without cost.

And, to make viewing your proposed changes ultra convenient the software provides you with 3D viewing, which means you can literally see the room from any angle you choose. How would the room look if you are sitting on the sofa or standing at the entry or in front of the window click your mouse and see what others will see!

There are two basic types of design and planning software available:

1. Software that your purchase and own, that will reside on your computer, in a similar manner to any other computer program.
2. Software that you pay a monthly or yearly service fee, that resides on a companys remote computer server that you manipulate via your computer.

There are advantages and disadvantages to both products.

Additional information on design software. Home improvement, remodel and landscaping information.

How To Completely Rehab Your Home In 10 Days!

This report is about taking a house and restoring it to an aesthetically pleasing dwelling that has reclaimed its functional utility. In effect, it is the anti-aging medication for bricks and mortar.

This report assumes that you have already or will soon acquire the proper house. The one that is in essence, ripe for rehab. Be selective and sure of the houses potential to allow for a profit after all the hard work is done. I will help you find your house or houses.

In the proverbial n16D0utshell, it helps if you choose a house from the start that has a sound plumbing, heating and electrical system.

Plumbing
Heating
Electrical

These are things that are expensive to correct in relation to the value they return to you upon resale. Most often, people cannot see the inner workings of these systems and they take them for granted.

Very few buyers are going to give you an extra $15,000-$20,000 in your asking price because you have replaced things that they cant see and already take for granted as just a basic component that is buried in the structure. Also, they assume these components to be warranted against defects by you.

After all, it is mandatory in most, if not all states that you fill out a disclosure form that tells the buyer of every defect that exists or ever has to your knowledge. So inspect the systems of your investment alternatives carefully, as they can be expensive to repair and replace, with minimum dollar return value being realized at the sale.

Along these same lines, you should also pay close attention to the following cash vacuums:

Roof
Foundation
Structural Integrity

Here are a few ways to quickly gage a home from its appearance:

Stand across the street from it. Now look at the bones of the structure. Does it look like a sway-backed horse, with the roof sagging in the middle? Does it have flat areas in its design that dont allow water to be drained away quickly?

Water, dampness and rot are the equivalent of cancer to the human body when it concerns a structure. Shingles can be replaced. That wont necessarily stop me from buying. Usually I will use that old roof as a bargaining chip in negotiating the seller down to a lower price. However, if I crawl into the attic and see that the plywood has become rotted and truss members are also affected, its time to move on to my next potential deal. Life is too short and I will never rehab it in 10 days if I have to rip the roof off and rebuild it too.

Some other conditions, such as sagging eves, wavy roof surface, rotten fascia and trim pieces, and insect infestations can be deal killers too, if severe.

Solution: Get into the structural members with a long, sharp, sturdy, standard flat-tip screwdriver and attempt to penetrate structural components that are made of wood. You wont hurt anything if there are no underlying deficiencies. However, if someone has freshly painted over or patched it, that screwdriver is one heck of a lie detector! Use it.

Now, Im not saying people would do that. It may just be the termites have eaten everything but the exterior coating of the wood to conceal their activity whatever the case probe.

There are also tile roofs, metal roofs, cedar shake roofs, hot-rolled roofing, tar and gravel roofs and always a few new high-tech roof coatings. I feel my main concern is whether the decking or the roof support structure has been undermined by water, insects, rodents, poor materials, poor design or craftsmanship, a lack of fasteners, strapping, etc.

Shingles and coatings can be replaced. Just know what is underneath. Thats my criteria. Negotiate lower for needed replacement of roof coverings if you can. I dwell on roofs because it protects everything else!

Next on the list of deal killers is the foundation. The same thing applies to the foundation. I will start by standing back from it and looking at it from a distance. Does this place look like the Leaning Tower of Pisa? Or are the seams coming apart? Do the windows and doors look square? Are porches, stairs and additions on firm ground as well?

Block homes can tell you very quickly if they are stressed out just by the appearance of the mortar joints. Those giant unsettling cracks can and do tell a story. This does happen and mortar cracks maybe 10-years old. You need to investigate further.

Once again, water is a sign of trouble with foundations because it leads to erosion, rot, mold and mildew. It washes out foundation materials and slabs will crack. It rots sill plates and your walls are no longer firmly attached to a base.

If you have a crawl space, its time to get your coveralls on and get in there. Now, lets use our heads here and I mean this! Before you enter a dark, supposedly uninhabited, infrequently entered, dark and restrictive to movement area, assess the situation. Ask someone who has knowledge of the dwelling if there has been any animal activity that they know of. You may also encounter bees, wasps, ants, spiders, snakes, slugs, mosquitoes, rats, mice and a host of other inhabitants. Beware and be prepared. Its truly another world in some cases.

If you dont want to do it, hire a professional and I do mean a pro, not some Joe who says he is one. For goodness sake, use a licensed professional home inspector to protect yourself in all areas if youre just not sure!

OK, youre a trooper and youre going in. Good for you, Rambo! Youll make it in this business because it takes faith, guts and determination. By getting into this type of situation, youll learn a lot more about every part of the homes you inspect.

You should have a strong flashlight, your trusty screwdriver, maybe some insect repellent and a safety observer standing at the access entry to give you piece of mind. Now you can go to the perimeter walls and inspect where the walls meet the foundation. Look for rot, misalignment, cracks, separations, water damage or any other condition that doesnt appear normal.

While youre down there, look at the other foundational supports, you will see pier blocks and posts, other concrete support pillars and walls, bea5B4ms, joists and cross bracing, and the underside of sub-flooring. Check this stuffs condition. Does it look original? Is it structurally sound? Or are there some discrepancies that need further investigation? Take a good look and smell!

Dont leave yet. You also will want to look at all that plumbing and electrical that is there as well. Scan the perimeter. Do you see any sunlight coming in from where it shouldnt be? That might be a hole that needs repair. This is common sense land, not computer a chip lab. You can inspect for general condition. Simply follow everything to its logical end, looking mainly at the condition of the different components.

OK, youve made mental and physical notes. Now dust yourself off and go inside the house if everything has checked out so far. So the roof and foundation have passed your keen eye. Lets look at the rest of the house with respect to its structural integrity. More than half of your structural integrity check at this point is already complete as the roof and foundation are two of the most important components and those have been done. Now you are left with the interior spaces of the structure.

Heres what I do once inside. I stand at the front door with a checklist in hand (www.inspectamerica.com) and I begin to scan the walls, ceiling and floors. Im looking for water stains on all three surfaces, as well as patches that were used to repair 5B4or conceal damage. I go through every room and look for signs of damage or concealment.

Any flat floor is a good candidate for my scientific marble test. Ill drop my marble; if it rolls to a corner, that floor aint level, Buckwheat. Thats a simple test but I do want to know that the under-layer or sub-flooring is sound and firmly attached to all those joists, and beams and trimmers and blah, blah, blah.

Soft spongy floors are of concern, creaky floors are annoying and rotten floors are another story. So once again, Im looking at the structural support of the floors. I dont care that the cheap, yellowed vinyl is coming up at the seams. I dont care that the carpet is matted down or thread bare, and I dont mind if the finish is worn off of hardwood floors or tiles are loose.

Floor coverings fall under the label of cosmetics. Thats such a pretty word and thats what you want to concentrate on: cosmetics...more on that in a moment.

So the floors pass my test for sub-flooring and structural integrity is great. Now I can check that the walls are square because they are attached to that floor, and then I can check that the doors all operate properly and are square too.

How much more can there be than that, Dan? Well, let me tell you a few things that can bite you here. Lets say the structure overall is good. By that, I mean you have a solid roof, a solid foundation and sturdy5B4 floors and walls.

What is behind those walls? The things that bite you arent usually seen until you get bit. One particular painful bite is finding out your wiring is not grounded or that the circuits are not properly protected. Youre looking for three-pronged outlets and modern plastic-encased wiring made of copper, not aluminum. You want circuit breakers, not fuses. What you really need here is a licensed electrician to do this more in-depth and professionally licensed review of the system.

I have seen more than one Joe Homeowner rehab go up in flames because of a lack of respect for electricity. Licensed electricians bring you up to code and protect your investment. Find a good one and make it a point to shower him or her with praise, attention and money well spent.

They will give you free estimates, so use them as a preliminary inspector with you. If you decide to buy it, use them to do the work that needs to be done.

Plumbers are a breed apart. You would think they use gold for soldering your pipes with the prices they charge. My grandfather was a plumber and I was on the truck with him at nine years old. A plumber may or may not give you a free estimate. With a little digging, it can be done. Just give them the work if indeed you do buy the house.

With plumbers, the only time youre going to need one is if you are doing major system work or the once every ten year hot water heate5B4r job. Also the occasional clogged main sewer line to the street.

In todays P.V.C. plastic plumbing kits world, you can hire just about any good all-around handyman to get the job done. If you have to tear through a wall to get at plumbing, building code inspector-man will say, Get a licensed plumber.

Heating and cooling: the air conditioning system, if the house youre inspecting doesnt have adequate heating and cooling, that can become expensive. Lets say you have a flat roof home in a hot climate with window unit air-conditioners, and you intend on bringing this house up to what a modern day home dweller expects.

You may have a problem. Where would you put new ductwork if you dont have attic space to house and route central heat and air? Once again, call in a pro if you need some advice. They do give free estimates!

Heres a point for you to follow up on: the plumbing, heating and air-conditioning guys all drive service trucks. Be on the lookout for those trucks if they are your neighbors; go say Hello and introduce yourself.

Regardless, I have always done this and what I am saying is this: these guys most always work on the side and that means half price. You may have to pull a permit as a homeowner but the savings is substantial. Develop a network of these blue-collar geniuses. They are the guys who will transform your investment fast!

So now you have a solid5B4 house. By that I mean, plumbing, electrical, heating and air-conditioning, roof, foundation and overall good structural integrity.

So whats left to do? Call in your army of carpenter ants, from painters to carpenters and flooring installers, yard maintenance and tree trimmers, and handymen of all sorts.

This is the whirlwind tour. Let the demolition guy in first. Order a dumpster for the next ten days. Order demolition man to throw out everything including the kitchen sink. What I am out to do at this point is to clear the decks.

A blank canvass is created for the painters to perform the transformation. They come in at this point and patch and paint. Let them blast the place with their airless paint-spraying arsenal inside and out. Give them 3 days and you have just added a huge improvement to your investment. This is the biggest dollar-for-dollar return you can make.

One cautionary note here: Make absolutely sure that quality paint is used. When it comes to painting, its the labor that kills you, not the material. I insist on Sherwin Williams Super Paint. It is a miracle formula that I am convinced could cover up bullet holes without any patching compound and it lasts forever. Its worth every penny; insist on it!

So my idea of finding the ideal fixer upper is to find those where the structure and systems are fine but it still needs demolition man and the paint brigade. Everything 5B4up to this point has been inspection and appraisal of the situation. Once Im satisfied that it is a cosmetic rehab and not the expensive money pit, I send in my cosmetologists.

I wouldnt call these guys that to their face but these are normally men adding residential make-up to the bricks and mortar. Once the painters leave, the flooring guys are right behind them, laying tile and carpet. These guys are out in 2-3 days and my cabinet and handyman plumber are attacking.

Light fixtures, vanities, toilets, sinks, doors, switch plates and outlet coverswham, ten days are up and this house is either held out for rent, lease-optioned or sold for a whole heck of a lot more than the ten grand I put into it, if that much.

You must be somewhat of an appraiser and deal finder. It takes time to recruit your cosmetologists, but you will run across them in your travels. Friends and family usually can provide you with some serious leads. Start networking and talking to tradesmen. Get their numbers and schedule them to descend upon your ugly duckling at certain times and watch the transformation begin.

It took me years to learn these tricks. I did it all myself for years and it always took three months when I did it myself. The sad part is that I thought I was saving money that way.

Can you see how much I actually lost? Here is a quick example. I bought a house for $55,000. Its deficiencies were purely 5B4cosmetic. I used other people to do all the work and I pitched in to keep them organized. Ten days later, it was done. I spent a total of $5,000 on materials and labor and it appraised at $90,000 in 10 days!

Thats $30,000 in 10 days, not 3 months. Now marketing time would take 45 days but I know how to do that too, and I will also show you how you can do it too.

There is no doubt about it. This can be done and you can do it. In all honesty, it may take you 30 days to achieve a completed house. Thats may be 3 times what it took me but I am experienced.

Heres a pretty neat way I figured out how to find good cosmetologists (tradesmen). If I know relatively no one in the area, I will ask a local appraiser to suggest who he would use if he were me.

This is an intelligent way to ask that question. I ask it in this form: If you were me, who would you use? Now that triggers a self-preservation mechanism in their brain and they give me excellent people, who are very good at what they do! Try it; it works.

I went to appraisal school and learned a lot. Believe me, appraisers are underrated and treated poorly. They truly are experts at discerning quality and value. They know whom does quality work. Make friends with a competent appraiser and the lenders that accept their appraisals. Hint: Youll get very fair evaluations and their lender approves them.

Marketing, hunting, findin5B0g and capturing the ripe for rehab houses is another book entirely. However, dont lose faith because I have written that book for you as well. Here is an excerpt from my other book. It is called Magic Bullets In Real Estate.

There are 4 phases, or lifecycles, to real estate and here is how it often goes.

Phase 1 You will see new construction, bright shiny homes popping up,

landscaping contests, baby strollers and tricycles in the neighborhood.

This is probably going on in the suburbs of the city, as new growth tends

to radiate out at a pace of one mile per year from growing and

prosperous cities.

Phase 2 The same neighborhood now 10-15 years later has aged a bit and

now you see basketball hoops and 2-wheel bikes, as the kids are older

and want more mobility.

Phase 3 The kids are grown and gone with families of their own and now the

parents are riding their own 3-wheel bicycles, trikes to the hip grannies.

Here in Phase 3, youre looking at 25-35 year old homes, where some

people are passing away. Others are just hanging in and some are

moving in with the kids or going to an A.L.F. (Assisted Living Facility).

No doubt, you have outdated homes, deferred maintenance and some

repairs to be made. Here is the beauty of this whole thing. These are my

cosmetology candidates. Heres why! The formally elder owners livedA46

there and they needed everything to work. They didnt update it. They

just fixed things that needed repair in order to maintain a level of

comfort. They had pest control and the Sears man come annually and

piddled around. So things were kind of looked after in that manner. Buy

here!

Phase 4 Revitalization Thats what happens as a result of you buying your ripe-

for-rehab fixer-upper in Phase 3 neighborhoods. Odds are, you will rent

it out, lease-option it or sell it to a young family when it does sell, and

guess what? Yep, out come the tricycles and baby strollers and it starts

all over again.

Tricycles

Bicycles

3-wheel bikes (buy here!)

Revitalization

Determine what cycle different neighborhoods are in! Follow cycle #3.

Isnt that a beautiful story; isnt that the truth? Think about your own parents and your own childhood. Now I also want you to think about that brand new young family that is counting on you to treat them fairly and give them a trouble-free home when they buy or rent from you.

The harder and smarter you work, the better quality and value you can provide to others. Dont rip them off. Dont take advantage, dont scrimp and for Petes sake, do your best to do your level best. You need education and help from others to achieve these heights of excellence.

Dan Auito is a dual-licensed real estate agent and appraisal assistant. In addition to being a 20-year veteran of the United States Coast Guard, Dan has also founded a non-profit drug prevention corporation, a real estate consulting group and is the author of Magic Bullets in Real Estate. This 300-page power-packed book (due out in Sept 2004) comes with a website (on line in Sept 2004) that further supports its readers. Please visit with the family at http://www.magicbullets.com we look forward to seeing you!