How to Stack Firewood

Stacking firewood may seem like an easy job and it is. But if you learn how to stack firewood correctly the first time it could help avoid some problems in the future.

The first thing to think about is if the firewood is green, wet or dry. If it’s green or wet you will want to stack it in a technique that will allow it to dry quickly. In order to dry the firewood, it is important that it has plenty air flow.

First you will need to settle on where to stack the wood. If it’s green or wet the best place to stack it will be out in the open where it will be exposed to the sun and wind. If it’s dry a shed or covered area will be best. If you don’t have a covered structure to stack it in a tarp or other cover will work.

You will want to stack your wood on something that keeps it away from the ground. Wood will absorb moisture from soil contact and it can encourage mold and decay. Not to mention the dirt will stick to the wood and make a mess. You can stack it on a concrete slab or on a pallet, tarp, plywood, or anything to keep it off the ground. A common way is to place two parallel boards, poles or similar objects on the ground and stack the wood on top and upright to them.

Begin stacking the wood and put the pieces parallel to each other and fit the pieces together as neatly as you can to make sure a stable stack. If you don’t have stakes or something to stack against you can criss cross the pieces on the ends in the style of a log cabin so you can have perpendicular ends. It’s usually best to not load your firewood more than 4 feet high or it could become unbalanced and fall over.

If your wood is wet or green it will shrink as it dries. It’s common for the stack to start to lean to the side that dries the fastest which will usually be the side facing the sun. It can help if you make your stack a little away from the sun to compensate.

If your wood is dry you can stack it in a shed or under cover. It’s best if the structure is ventilated to allow air flow. If you cover it with a tarp make sure you don’t cover the whole pile all the way to the ground. This will hold in any moisture that may get in or that the wood absorbs from the air. Not only will this keep the wood from drying but can encourage mold.

Stacking firewood is a pretty easy job and there really isn’t a right or wrong way to do it but hopefully these few tips may help you find the way that suits you best.

How to Stack Firewood

Stacking firewood may seem like an easy job and it is. But if you learn how to stack firewood correctly the first time it could help avoid some problems in the future.

The first thing to think about is if the firewood is green, wet or dry. If it’s green or wet you will want to stack it in a technique that will allow it to dry quickly. In order to dry the firewood, it is important that it has plenty air flow.

First you will need to settle on where to stack the wood. If it’s green or wet the best place to stack it will be out in the open where it will be exposed to the sun and wind. If it’s dry a shed or covered area will be best. If you don’t have a covered structure to stack it in a tarp or other cover will work.

You will want to stack your wood on something that keeps it away from the ground. Wood will absorb moisture from soil contact and it can encourage mold and decay. Not to mention the dirt will stick to the wood and make a mess. You can stack it on a concrete slab or on a pallet, tarp, plywood, or anything to keep it off the ground. A common way is to place two parallel boards, poles or similar objects on the ground and stack the wood on top and upright to them.

Begin stacking the wood and put the pieces parallel to each other and fit the pieces together as neatly as you can to make sure a stable stack. If you don’t have stakes or something to stack against you can criss cross the pieces on the ends in the style of a log cabin so you can have perpendicular ends. It’s usually best to not load your firewood more than 4 feet high or it could become unbalanced and fall over.

If your wood is wet or green it will shrink as it dries. It’s common for the stack to start to lean to the side that dries the fastest which will usually be the side facing the sun. It can help if you make your stack a little away from the sun to compensate.

If your wood is dry you can stack it in a shed or under cover. It’s best if the structure is ventilated to allow air flow. If you cover it with a tarp make sure you don’t cover the whole pile all the way to the ground. This will hold in any moisture that may get in or that the wood absorbs from the air. Not only will this keep the wood from drying but can encourage mold.

Stacking firewood is a pretty easy job and there really isn’t a right or wrong way to do it but hopefully these few tips may help you find the way that suits you best.

Installing Replacement Windows

How To Install Replacement Windows

Ever wondered how to install replacement windows? Installing replacement windows is easier than you might think and it’s a fantastic way to save money on the install and over the years with lower heating and cooling bills. If you have moderate DIY skills including the ability to use power tools then you likely have the skills required to install replacement windows. If you’d like to learn how to install replacement windows then I recommend you read a detailed article over at Home Construction Improvement on installing replacement windows.

How to brighten up a boring bathroom

One of the least appreciated rooms in the house is the bathroom. The bathroom is often the last room to get any make-over attention. It is a functional room and can become boring and tired-looking. You can decorate it using vases filled with flowers, printed rugs and towels, and the unmistakable scented candle. But, if you have some hours and a little extra cash, you can lighten up your boring bathroom into a bright and fun space to relax in.

Working with what you’ve got is the best way. First, clear out all of the lotions, potions and accessories from the bathroom so that you can give it a good clean. You may be surprised at how much this simple act improves the brightness in the room. Throw away any old bathing products and items that you no longer use or need.

Changing the color scheme in your bathroom may costly, but if you can afford it, repaint your bathroom. Most bathrooms are small and do not need more than $50 worth of paint. No matter what color your bathroom suite and tiles may be, painting the walls white will instantly brighten your bathroom. Before you choose your paint color, you have to know what colors will brighten your bathroom. Generally, yellows, light browns, light greens and blues will work well for bathrooms. Use a specially formulated moisture-resistant paint, to help protect the walls. Adding 2 or 3 framed pictures can give a focus to the room away from the obvious shower or bath; you can use cheap frames and paint them yourself or glue on beads, sequins or shells to match the bead curtain.

Colors will be affected by the amount of light that enters your bathroom. For example, if you have a small window that does not let in enough light, you will need even brighter colors to make up for the lack of light. However, if you have a large window that lets in enough light, you can use some other darker colors. If your bathroom does not naturally get enough light, you do not need to put up drapes or curtains.

If you use shower curtain that is looking dingy, you can either wash it with hot water and a little bleach, or replace it with a bright color that will accentuate the rest of the bathroom accessories. For example, if you have iron-wrought fixtures, you can use a taupe-colored or cream-colored shower curtain that will make your bathroom look traditional-mission.

If your bathroom window has frosted glass, there really is no need to have curtains as well. Curtains restrict the light entering the bathroom, and are a magnet for mould. Instead, why not make a simple bead curtain or one incorporating shells or ribbons, and hang this at the window instead. Take a length of thin dowel the same width as your window; using string or thin cord, thread a selection of beads on to lengths of cord the same height as your window. Tie these beaded cords onto the dowel at regular intervals. Fix an adhesive coat hook to each side of the window frame at the top, and sit the dowel on the hooks to hold it in place.

Keeping all your bathroom clutter hidden, or at least stored neatly, will make your bathroom look bigger and cleaner. Plastic crates are the most practical way of holding the plethora of gels, lotions and other grooming accouterments. You can pick colors to match your main bathroom scheme, or use a range of different bright colors and displays them in rows or stacked up as part of the overall decoration.

You can also use rugs and toilet seat covers with printed designs on them. Make sure that the designs don’t clash with your shower curtains, and work well with the other components of the room. The best way to decorate is to create harmony within the bathroom. You don’t want too many decorations or the bathroom will look cluttered.

For a more natural look, white-painted wood gives a clean finish, and baskets made from woven coir (coconut fiber) are durable and give a rustic feel to the room. If you have pipes that need to be boxed in, consider including some storage shelves and cupboards at the same time. The space beneath a sink unit or at one end of the bath could also be utilized to provide more storage.

By clearing away all the unnecessary hygiene items and storing them in practical and attractive containers or shelving, your bathroom will become much more user-friendly. Adding some bright sparkling accessories and a lick of paint will also help to take the boredom from your bathroom and give you a space fit for pampering yourself.

Keep Humidity under Control with a Dehumidifier

There are various levels of humidity in the air. A higher level of relative humidity, more than 50 percent, in the air can lead to the growth of fungus and mold in homes which can pose health risks, such as asthma and allergies, to a household and also provides an ideal living environment to termites. Dehumidifiers are electrical appliances that are used to reduce the humidity level in the air. These devices are excellent for use in hot and humid conditions where the percentage of water vapor in the air is very high.

The most commonly used types of dehumidifiers are mechanical and desiccant. Mechanical dehumidifiers work by drawing moist air over a coil and a fan. These work best in places where the humidity level is high and warmer temperatures. Desiccant dehumidifiers work by exposing a desiccative substance to an air stream with high relative humidity and do not employ compressors. These are ideal for use in areas with relatively low humidity levels and low temperatures.

Most small areas may only demand a desiccant dehumidifier, but larger areas with humidity issues will demand a mechanical dehumidifier that utilizes compressors or thermo-electric peltiers. Dehumidifiers with compressors feature coils that compressed air or refrigerants move through. These types of dehumidifiers are extremely effective and energy efficient but somewhat loud. Dehumidifiers with thermo-electric peltiers utilize thermo-electric technology by passing an electric current through two dissimilar metals and transferring heat. Thermo-electric dehumidifiers are virtually noiseless because there are no moving parts but are less energy efficient and are only ideal for smaller areas.

While any type of dehumidifier will bring relief to you and your home, it is best to take some time and look at various options available in the market so that you get value for your money. Some recommended features that dehumidifiers should have include:

• Humidistat – Electronic or digital controls that allow you to select or program humidity level.
• Large Tank Capacity – Dehumidifiers with larger tanks work more efficiently than smaller models.
• Washable Air Filter – Most dehumidifiers have an air filter. Choosing a model with a washable air filter will make maintenance easier.
• Hose Connection – Purchasing a dehumidifier with a hose connection makes having to empty the condensed water unnecessary. The hose diverts the condensed water into the floor drain or sump pump.
• Portability – A dehumidifier that features casters or wheels allows you to easily move the unit.

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Guest Post: Dehumidifiers keep you and your home safe from excess moisture that can lead to unhealthy growth of mold and mildew. Keep the recommended features in mind when you purchase a unit so that you can take full advantage of a quality dehumidifier.

How to brighten up a boring bathroom

One of the least appreciated rooms in the house is the bathroom. The bathroom is often the last room to get any make-over attention. It is a functional room and can become boring and tired-looking. You can decorate it using vases filled with flowers, printed rugs and towels, and the unmistakable scented candle. But, if you have some hours and a little extra cash, you can lighten up your boring bathroom into a bright and fun space to relax in.

Working with what you’ve got is the best way. First, clear out all of the lotions, potions and accessories from the bathroom so that you can give it a good clean. You may be surprised at how much this simple act improves the brightness in the room. Throw away any old bathing products and items that you no longer use or need.

Changing the color scheme in your bathroom may costly, but if you can afford it, repaint your bathroom. Most bathrooms are small and do not need more than $50 worth of paint. No matter what color your bathroom suite and tiles may be, painting the walls white will instantly brighten your bathroom. Before you choose your paint color, you have to know what colors will brighten your bathroom. Generally, yellows, light browns, light greens and blues will work well for bathrooms. Use a specially formulated moisture-resistant paint, to help protect the walls. Adding 2 or 3 framed pictures can give a focus to the room away from the obvious shower or bath; you can use cheap frames and paint them yourself or glue on beads, sequins or shells to match the bead curtain.

Colors will be affected by the amount of light that enters your bathroom. For example, if you have a small window that does not let in enough light, you will need even brighter colors to make up for the lack of light. However, if you have a large window that lets in enough light, you can use some other darker colors. If your bathroom does not naturally get enough light, you do not need to put up drapes or curtains.

If you use shower curtain that is looking dingy, you can either wash it with hot water and a little bleach, or replace it with a bright color that will accentuate the rest of the bathroom accessories. For example, if you have iron-wrought fixtures, you can use a taupe-colored or cream-colored shower curtain that will make your bathroom look traditional-mission.

If your bathroom window has frosted glass, there really is no need to have curtains as well. Curtains restrict the light entering the bathroom, and are a magnet for mould. Instead, why not make a simple bead curtain or one incorporating shells or ribbons, and hang this at the window instead. Take a length of thin dowel the same width as your window; using string or thin cord, thread a selection of beads on to lengths of cord the same height as your window. Tie these beaded cords onto the dowel at regular intervals. Fix an adhesive coat hook to each side of the window frame at the top, and sit the dowel on the hooks to hold it in place.

Keeping all your bathroom clutter hidden, or at least stored neatly, will make your bathroom look bigger and cleaner. Plastic crates are the most practical way of holding the plethora of gels, lotions and other grooming accouterments. You can pick colors to match your main bathroom scheme, or use a range of different bright colors and displays them in rows or stacked up as part of the overall decoration.

You can also use rugs and toilet seat covers with printed designs on them. Make sure that the designs don’t clash with your shower curtains, and work well with the other components of the room. The best way to decorate is to create harmony within the bathroom. You don’t want too many decorations or the bathroom will look cluttered.

For a more natural look, white-painted wood gives a clean finish, and baskets made from woven coir (coconut fiber) are durable and give a rustic feel to the room. If you have pipes that need to be boxed in, consider including some storage shelves and cupboards at the same time. The space beneath a sink unit or at one end of the bath could also be utilized to provide more storage.

By clearing away all the unnecessary hygiene items and storing them in practical and attractive containers or shelving, your bathroom will become much more user-friendly. Adding some bright sparkling accessories and a lick of paint will also help to take the boredom from your bathroom and give you a space fit for pampering yourself.

Keep Humidity under Control with a Dehumidifier

There are various levels of humidity in the air. A higher level of relative humidity, more than 50 percent, in the air can lead to the growth of fungus and mold in homes which can pose health risks, such as asthma and allergies, to a household and also provides an ideal living environment to termites. Dehumidifiers are electrical appliances that are used to reduce the humidity level in the air. These devices are excellent for use in hot and humid conditions where the percentage of water vapor in the air is very high.

The most commonly used types of dehumidifiers are mechanical and desiccant. Mechanical dehumidifiers work by drawing moist air over a coil and a fan. These work best in places where the humidity level is high and warmer temperatures. Desiccant dehumidifiers work by exposing a desiccative substance to an air stream with high relative humidity and do not employ compressors. These are ideal for use in areas with relatively low humidity levels and low temperatures.

Most small areas may only demand a desiccant dehumidifier, but larger areas with humidity issues will demand a mechanical dehumidifier that utilizes compressors or thermo-electric peltiers. Dehumidifiers with compressors feature coils that compressed air or refrigerants move through. These types of dehumidifiers are extremely effective and energy efficient but somewhat loud. Dehumidifiers with thermo-electric peltiers utilize thermo-electric technology by passing an electric current through two dissimilar metals and transferring heat. Thermo-electric dehumidifiers are virtually noiseless because there are no moving parts but are less energy efficient and are only ideal for smaller areas.

While any type of dehumidifier will bring relief to you and your home, it is best to take some time and look at various options available in the market so that you get value for your money. Some recommended features that dehumidifiers should have include:

• Humidistat – Electronic or digital controls that allow you to select or program humidity level.
• Large Tank Capacity – Dehumidifiers with larger tanks work more efficiently than smaller models.
• Washable Air Filter – Most dehumidifiers have an air filter. Choosing a model with a washable air filter will make maintenance easier.
• Hose Connection – Purchasing a dehumidifier with a hose connection makes having to empty the condensed water unnecessary. The hose diverts the condensed water into the floor drain or sump pump.
• Portability – A dehumidifier that features casters or wheels allows you to easily move the unit.

——-

Guest Post: Dehumidifiers keep you and your home safe from excess moisture that can lead to unhealthy growth of mold and mildew. Keep the recommended features in mind when you purchase a unit so that you can take full advantage of a quality dehumidifier.

How to shampoo carpets

Regular cleaning and maintenance of carpet is very important to increase its lifetime. Deep cleaning becomes a necessary process to fulfill since carpets are highly susceptible to many kinds of stains such as dust, dirt and liquid spills.

Cleaning process should be done at least once a year. You may either take your carpets into a carpet cleaning service or carry out the carpet cleaning process on your own. If you prefer to do it yourself, shampooing the carpet will be the best way out.

Liquid shampooing method does not involve any assistance of an expert. Find out how to shampoo carpets with the given tips and instructions below. Towards the end you will be acquainted with the right method to clean your carpets yourself.

Here is the correct way to shampoo carpets.

You will need:

1) Carpet shampoo
2) Vacuum cleaner
3) Mechanically operated brush

Working instructions:

1) Remove all of the furniture out of the room if possible before shampooing the carpets. If it is not possible, move all of the furniture to one corner of the room. Remove anything that might obstruct the shampooing process.

2) Vacuum the whole carpets thoroughly. Do not skip this process. This is important to get rid of all the loose dirt and make the carpets easy to clean.

3) Read the working instructions on the label of the carpet shampoo. Carefully apply the shampoo on the carpets according to the instructions.

4) Run the mechanically operated brush on the carpets starting from one corner. This brush will work well on the dirty portions by making a foamy solution into the carpet pile. If the carpets have been dirt deeply with grease, you should use a traffic-lane cleaner individually from the shampoo. Increase the amount of the traffic-lane cleaner to clean the extreme stained areas.

5) Once the shampooing process finish, leave the carpets for the night to dry completely.

6) The next day, vacuum the whole carpets thoroughly once again. Now you can walk on your carpets and arrange all the furniture back to its place.
Here are some additional tips to follow:

1) Always wear hand gloves while working with carpet shampoo to keep your hand save from chemical reaction.

2) Always make sure the carpets are fully dry before arranging all the furniture back.

3) Follow closely the carpet manufacturer's instructions while using the shampoo and the mechanically operated brush.

4) You can use a steamer machine along with shampoo. You can get it along with the cleaning product.

Now you know how to shampoo carpets like a pro.

How to paint Terra Cotta pottery

For generations, terra cotta pottery has been used widely as outside and indoors planters for growing houseplant or young herb. Low-cost pottery with their boring looking will turn great with style when you add some attractive colors.

Maybe it sounds easy, but you have to know how to paint terra cotta pot properly if you want your decorative painting efforts to last. Here are a few simple instructions that guarantee your painted technique will maintain to look attractive for years.

To paint a terra cotta pottery, you will need:

1) Terra cotta pot
Choose any size of terra cotta pot of your preference.

2) Pottery sealant spray
For pot that will be used for planting, use oil or water based polyurethane. Both of them will work great but oil based polyurethane will last longer.
For pot that will not be used for planting, use water-based polyurethane or craft acrylic sealant.

3) Acrylic or latex paint
Choose two or three colors of your preference. Most hardware stores able to scan just about any color you may bring to make a color match, therefore you do not have to try and mix yourself.

4) 2 inch wide foam brush

5) Masking tape

6) Clear acrylic coat spray

7) Sheet of self-adhesive laminating sheets and scissors (optional)

Fine grit sandpaper

Instructions:

Wash and rinse the terra cotta pot with warm water and let it dry completely. Next, sand the pot with fine grit sandpaper to remove any rough spots or loose clay particles.

Spray inside of the pot with pottery sealant as recommended above. Let the pot dry thoroughly. Once it dried out, spray inside the pot with pottery sealant again and let it dry thoroughly for about 24 hours. This process is necessary to ovoid the outside finished from peeling and bubbling consequence of moisture that coming through the pot’s interior.

Paint outside of the pot with your first preference color with foam brush. Allow the pot dry thoroughly for several hours.

Once the pot is dried out, wrap masking tape around the center of the pot. Apply your second color and allow it to dry thoroughly for about several hours.

If you want the pot finished in variation with circle or square design, draw circles or squares on a laminating sheet, and then cut out the stencils carefully. Once the pot is dried out, peel off the laminating sheet and set the stencils on the pot where you want it. Apply your third color and allow it to dry thoroughly for about several hours.

Remove the stencils. Spray the whole pot with clear acrylic coat. Allow the pot to dry the thoroughly.

Once the pot dried out for several days, plant any houseplant or young herb with a sufficient amount of soil.

Now you have spent a good amount of time and effort painting your terra cotta pot. It is great for making a stylish look of indoor or outdoor, and also great for gift.

How to paint Terra Cotta pottery

For generations, terra cotta pottery has been used widely as outside and indoors planters for growing houseplant or young herb. Low-cost pottery with their boring looking will turn great with style when you add some attractive colors.

Maybe it sounds easy, but you have to know how to paint terra cotta pot properly if you want your decorative painting efforts to last. Here are a few simple instructions that guarantee your painted technique will maintain to look attractive for years.

To paint a terra cotta pottery, you will need:

1) Terra cotta pot
Choose any size of terra cotta pot of your preference.

2) Pottery sealant spray
For pot that will be used for planting, use oil or water based polyurethane. Both of them will work great but oil based polyurethane will last longer.
For pot that will not be used for planting, use water-based polyurethane or craft acrylic sealant.

3) Acrylic or latex paint
Choose two or three colors of your preference. Most hardware stores able to scan just about any color you may bring to make a color match, therefore you do not have to try and mix yourself.

4) 2 inch wide foam brush

5) Masking tape

6) Clear acrylic coat spray

7) Sheet of self-adhesive laminating sheets and scissors (optional)

Fine grit sandpaper

Instructions:

Wash and rinse the terra cotta pot with warm water and let it dry completely. Next, sand the pot with fine grit sandpaper to remove any rough spots or loose clay particles.

Spray inside of the pot with pottery sealant as recommended above. Let the pot dry thoroughly. Once it dried out, spray inside the pot with pottery sealant again and let it dry thoroughly for about 24 hours. This process is necessary to ovoid the outside finished from peeling and bubbling consequence of moisture that coming through the pot’s interior.

Paint outside of the pot with your first preference color with foam brush. Allow the pot dry thoroughly for several hours.

Once the pot is dried out, wrap masking tape around the center of the pot. Apply your second color and allow it to dry thoroughly for about several hours.

If you want the pot finished in variation with circle or square design, draw circles or squares on a laminating sheet, and then cut out the stencils carefully. Once the pot is dried out, peel off the laminating sheet and set the stencils on the pot where you want it. Apply your third color and allow it to dry thoroughly for about several hours.

Remove the stencils. Spray the whole pot with clear acrylic coat. Allow the pot to dry the thoroughly.

Once the pot dried out for several days, plant any houseplant or young herb with a sufficient amount of soil.

Now you have spent a good amount of time and effort painting your terra cotta pot. It is great for making a stylish look of indoor or outdoor, and also great for gift.

Best ways to remove stains from carpets

Keeping carpets clean can be very hard, especially those that are a plain and light color. While taking our shoes out before entering a carpeted room and vacuuming regularly will save our carpets from wear and tear. We also have to be very careful while eating and drinking in carpeted rooms. Spills caused stains and that can ruin a carpet.

Before you throw your stained carpet out and spend a lot of money to replace it, you must try to remove the stains first. Most of times, people will end up with stains caused by coffee, chocolate, wine, pet urine, lipstick, grease, and other things that are thought hard to remove.

There are many ways to remove stains from carpets, ranging from solutions that are made from items at home to expensive commercial products. Almost every way of stain removal process depends upon the type of stains and carpets. With these considerations in mind, the best ways to remove stains from carpets can easily be chosen.

One of the best and the easiest ways to remove stains from carpets is to clean them immediately while they’re fresh. If you notice fresh liquid stains on your carpet, quickly take paper towels or cotton rag to blot the stained area. Gently blot the stains with fresh paper towels or rags as much as you can. Then rinse the stained area with some water and continue to blot some more. Never scrub the stains because it may grind deeper into the fibers.

If the stains are from a semi-solid item such as peanut butter and jelly, pick up as much of the item off as possible with a blunt knife. Then blot the same way as for liquid stains. Semi-solid items are easier to clean than liquid stains, since they not absorb into the carpet fibers.

Lifestyle choices to avoid chemicals are objectionable leads some people to look for homemade solutions. A mixture of one part vinegar with one part water is highly recommended. Be aware that vinegar may leave sour smell like for a little while. For tougher stains, dust baking soda on the stain thoroughly before applying vinegar solution, blot with clean cloth and rinse.

There are many commercial cleaners found in stores that are formulated for cleaning carpet stains. A commercial solution may damage the fibers of your carpet. Therefore test a carpet cleaner on an unremarkable spot first before applying it to clean any remarkable stains. If you using a commercial carpet cleaner, make sure to follow exactly the manufacturer’s instructions. Apply the recommended amount of cleaner solution into the stained area and gently rub with a clean rag from the outside to the center. This will prevent the stains from spreading and making more mess.

Now you know the best ways to remove stains from carpets. You will be surprised at how great your carpets look.

How to clean wood walls and paneling

The important thing to remember when cleaning wood walls and paneling is you are cleaning wood. Cleaning wood is totally different than cleaning painted walls. It can be tough work but following these simple steps will help preserve the beauty of your wood walls and paneling.

Use a product that is safe and only for wood. A good choice would be 'Pledge' in liquid form that you add to warm water. Another product that works well is 'Super Shine All'; it can be used in a spray form. These products won’t strip the finish of your wood and they won’t leave any residue or buildup on the wood.

Now that you have the cleaning product you will be using. You have to dry clean your wood walls and paneling. This means get rid of all cobwebs and dust with a dry mop. You may also remove any nails or tacks. I suggest using a ladder or get an extending dry mop for hard to reach areas.

Do not use wet mops to clean wood walls or paneling. It allows excess water to drip. The best way to clean your wood walls is to use the spray form or a bucket with the solution in it. Always use soft cloths and nothing abrasive. Start at the top and in small sections. After cleaning a section, dry thoroughly with another soft cloth. If some areas are harder to clean because of fingerprints or grease you can use a product like Goo Gone or other citrus based cleaners. These cleaners are safe for wood walls and they remove grease, crayon, scuff marks, tape, etc.

Once your walls are clean and dry you can apply a light coat of polish like Liquid Gold in spray form or Pledge with a dry soft cloth. Newer walls may require polish but I suggest using polish on older walls because they get dry and lose their luster so a product like Liquid Gold or Lemon Oil will add shine and help preserve the wood. When polishing wood always remember to spray product on the cloth or use a drop cloth. This will prevent slip and fall accidents. For older wood walls the polish may be absorbed quickly so you can apply a second coat.

Some products such as Endust is great for dusting your walls in between cleanings and it will help to prevent dust from accumulating. Another nice thing about Endust is it doesn’t cause the wax buildup that you can get from polishing over and over again. For heavy duty dirt on older walls, I’ve used Spic and Span and it worked very well. However, I don’t recommend using it on all walls. When in doubt about what to use for cleaning your wood walls, try to contact the manufacturer or look up the type of wood your cleaning on the Internet. There should be suggestions on how to care for your type of wood walls. It is better to be safe than sorry.

Another cleaning tip for wood walls is using plastic scrapers that you can purchase at the hardware store to remove candle wax, tape and food. It won’t scratch the wood and it can be used on other non scratch resistant items in your home. To maintain the beauty of your wood walls and paneling, I suggest cleaning them every 6 months. Hopefully these steps and tips will help you clean your wood walls and paneling.

How to clean wood walls and paneling

The important thing to remember when cleaning wood walls and paneling is you are cleaning wood. Cleaning wood is totally different than cleaning painted walls. It can be tough work but following these simple steps will help preserve the beauty of your wood walls and paneling.

Use a product that is safe and only for wood. A good choice would be 'Pledge' in liquid form that you add to warm water. Another product that works well is 'Super Shine All'; it can be used in a spray form. These products won’t strip the finish of your wood and they won’t leave any residue or buildup on the wood.

Now that you have the cleaning product you will be using. You have to dry clean your wood walls and paneling. This means get rid of all cobwebs and dust with a dry mop. You may also remove any nails or tacks. I suggest using a ladder or get an extending dry mop for hard to reach areas.

Do not use wet mops to clean wood walls or paneling. It allows excess water to drip. The best way to clean your wood walls is to use the spray form or a bucket with the solution in it. Always use soft cloths and nothing abrasive. Start at the top and in small sections. After cleaning a section, dry thoroughly with another soft cloth. If some areas are harder to clean because of fingerprints or grease you can use a product like Goo Gone or other citrus based cleaners. These cleaners are safe for wood walls and they remove grease, crayon, scuff marks, tape, etc.

Once your walls are clean and dry you can apply a light coat of polish like Liquid Gold in spray form or Pledge with a dry soft cloth. Newer walls may require polish but I suggest using polish on older walls because they get dry and lose their luster so a product like Liquid Gold or Lemon Oil will add shine and help preserve the wood. When polishing wood always remember to spray product on the cloth or use a drop cloth. This will prevent slip and fall accidents. For older wood walls the polish may be absorbed quickly so you can apply a second coat.

Some products such as Endust is great for dusting your walls in between cleanings and it will help to prevent dust from accumulating. Another nice thing about Endust is it doesn’t cause the wax buildup that you can get from polishing over and over again. For heavy duty dirt on older walls, I’ve used Spic and Span and it worked very well. However, I don’t recommend using it on all walls. When in doubt about what to use for cleaning your wood walls, try to contact the manufacturer or look up the type of wood your cleaning on the Internet. There should be suggestions on how to care for your type of wood walls. It is better to be safe than sorry.

Another cleaning tip for wood walls is using plastic scrapers that you can purchase at the hardware store to remove candle wax, tape and food. It won’t scratch the wood and it can be used on other non scratch resistant items in your home. To maintain the beauty of your wood walls and paneling, I suggest cleaning them every 6 months. Hopefully these steps and tips will help you clean your wood walls and paneling.

How to Remove Paints from Clothes

A) To remove WET paint from clothes:

- For WATER-BASED paints

Scrape as much as possible off the surface of the clothing, then use plenty of running water to away the rest. Rub gently or use a soft brush to dislodge any stubborn remaining paint from the fibers (be very careful if treating wool or silk). Make sure all the paint is gone, and then the clothing can be washed as normal.

- For OIL-BASED paints

Scrape as much as possible off the surface of the clothing, and then use a simple detergent – undiluted to dissolve the paint. You will probably have to use quite a lot. Keep adding it until you are sure that all the paint is ‘loose’ from the clothing. Then, and only then, start rinsing, with plenty of plain cold water. Once you’re sure all the paint is gone, the clothing can be washed as normal.

B) To remove DRIED paint from clothes:

- For WATER-BASED paints

Soak the clothing for at least 24 hours in cold water. Then, as for wet paint, rub gently or use a soft brush to dislodge any stubborn paint from the fibers. Make sure all the paint is gone, and then the clothing can be washed as normal.

-For OIL-BASED paints

You will almost certainly be unable to scrape the paint off the surface of the clothing. You will probably have to use a commercially-produced paint remover: be sure to read the instructions CAREFULLY as to whether it is usable on the material from which your clothes are made. Again, once you’re sure all the paint is gone, the clothing can be washed as normal.

You could also use paintbrush cleaner, available from any DIY store, but I would not recommend this for any artificial fabrics, or for wool or silk.

Of course, prevention is always best – wear old clothes for decorating, or craft activities, or cover up with an overall.

Outdoor Solar Lights - Better Security Lights Too

There are several things to think about when it comes to how to use outdoor solar lights in your yard or landscaping project. Many people use them because outdoor solarlights can be very beautiful and can provide a great mood when it comes to mood lighting. You can get a good idea of the types of lights that you like to use, and you can find a really beautiful way to highlight important areas in your home or outdoor areas.

Many people use outdoor solar lightings as a great tool when it comes to their own landscaping projects. However, there are other ways to look at an outdoor solar lighting project. It is crucial to think about the various ways that you can use solar lights. Not only can they be great points to use for your landscaping, but they can also become excellent sources of security lights.

Traditionally, security lights use electricity. They are regular lights, and they are lights that require you to use power. However, have you ever thought of using outdoor solar lighting as security lights?

There are several reasons that outdoor solar lights will make excellent security lights. First of all, it is going to give you a chance to have lights that are not using electricity. This is good for the environment, and is good for your power bill. When you can cut back, even just a little bit, on the way that you spend money on electricity.

There are other reasons that you might want to consider using outdoor solar lighting for your new security lighting. It is new and improved, because the lighting is stronger, brighter, and more impressive. Working with many different ways to find excellent solar lighting – and you might begin to realize that solar lighting is actually one of the best choices for you when it comes to security lighting. More reasons?

First of all, using outdoor solar lights for security lighting allows you to have lights that work, all of the time. Security lighting can only be as secure as your electricity – so if you want to have lights that work well, even when your electricity is off, you’ll be able to find them when you are using solar lighting. It is easy for you to be able to enjoy this type of lighting no matter what – because it is always going to be there. Many people enjoy the security that goes along with knowing that no matter what happens, they’ll have their security lights. When your lights draw their power from the sun, you will be able to appreciate that.

Bottom line; no human made energy source can be as reliable and stable as the suns energy. Therefore, relying on suns energy for security lights is worthy of trust, more so when they come with motion detectors and automatic on and off switches.

Walk-In Closet Design

Walk-In Closet Design

Walk In Closet DesignLast winter we renovated our walk-in closet with impressive results. Walk-In Closet Design is fairly easy especially if you use some of the free online design tools. We ended up designing and purchasing our walk-in closet materials from EasyClosets. They have a really great online design tool that makes it really easy to design your closet and look at renderings.

Some of the design considerations for walk-in closets should be:

• Functionality over Visual Appearance
• Use the corners for hanging clothing as we did (see photo)
• Be sure that drawers can easily be opened without hitting other shelving or drawers
• Be sure to leave room for tolerances as walls are never perfectly square and plumb
• Tape out your design on the floor and make sure there is sufficient room to stand in the closet

If you’re interested in learning more about your walk-in closet renovation check out our final walk-in closet design.

DIY Foyer Organization

When you walk into a fancy hotel or home, you get your first impression from the foyer. This entrance area of many homes is often ignored and can become cluttered, messy and neglected. There are some things that you use daily that are just more easily kept near the front door. The problem is that these things are not necessarily attractive and they don’t necessarily have anywhere specific to go.

Look at your foyer and figure out what your biggest problem is. It could be coats, umbrellas, school work, mail, pocket contents, cell phone chargers and more. Coats often become a problem because you want to shed them as soon as you come in the door. If you don’t have a coat closet nearby, then the problem can compound very quickly.

To solve the coat problem, you can install a hanging bar from the wall. You may be able to make an attractive hanging area out of a dowel rod and two brackets. You can paint, stain or decorate this bar however you would like. Use decorative or wood hangers to keep the area from looking junky or unattractive. Another option would be to utilize coat hooks. Make sure that you buy them large enough to hold your coats. If you have nicer wool coats or suit coats, they should always be hung on wood hangers or cedar hangers shaped to fit their design, or you risk damage to the garment.

Another common problem for the foyer area is mail. You come in the house with mail, paperwork, flyers from the door or school work. A vast majority of these paper products can be trashed almost immediately. The problem is that we sift through the stack, pick out what’s most important or interesting, and then toss the stack on a table near the door. You can solve this clutter problem by using bins for sorting mail, putting a small trash can near the desk or even keeping your shredder right there by the front door. Conceal it in a cabinet so that it is not an unsightly addition to your foyer. You can come in, throw important mail in one bin, things that you might need to look at later in another, shred personal information and throw away opened envelopes and junk mail all within seconds of walking in the door.

We like to empty our pockets when we come in the door. We need to keep cell phones, wallets, keys and purses near the door so that we know where they are the next time we leave the house. Make sure that you have specific hooks for purses, a charging station to keep cell phones, PDA’s and MP3 players charged, and a piggy bank for all that change. When you’re ready to go, everything you need will be neatly organized instead of crammed in with all of your other junk.

Whether you use hooks, wood hangers, a cabinet containing your shredder or charging stations, every little step you take helps to keep your foyer organized. When it all has a place to go, your life will quickly run more smoothly and your home will become more inviting.

Successfully Shopping For Ceramic Tiles Online

Internet shopping is here to stay. More and more of us are browsing and shopping online for thousands of different products. In this article I am going to provide you with some tips for buying ceramic tiles online.

The advantages of shopping line are obvious. It is convenient as you can shop from the comfort of your own home. In addition to this you are not restricted to shop opening hours and can make online purchases at any time even 3 or 4 am in the morning. My favourite benefit is that you can shop anywhere in the world and therefore get a much wider range of products to look at which is where my ceramic tiles come in.

The downsides of shopping online are real as well. However with a little bit of understanding it really is easy to find some great bargains. I recently bought a whole batch of tiles for my bathroom.

Some points to consider when buying tiles online are;

1) Seeing stock first hand – A good idea is go and physically look at tiles in your local tile store as you get to see up close what you will getting. It just a matter of getting the ceramic tiles product code and then searching using an online tile finder to get the best deals.

2) Ask for samples – With some online tiles stores you can request samples be sent to your home. This is a good final check to make sure that the quality is correct.

3) Pay with a Credit Card – As long as the store has a secure payment processor I suggest you pay with your credit card as you get maximum protection against fraud and faulty goods.

Commercial Building Product Headed Home

New codes are sending fire retardant treated wood into residences.

Guest Post By Huck DeVenzio, Arch Wood Protection

Commercial, public, and military buildings have used fire retardant treated (FRT) wood for a century in order to minimize damage from fire. In many applications, building codes have long required a noncombustible material or suitable substitute, such as FRT wood.

Now, this wood is likely to see greater use in single-family homes, and changing residential codes are prompting the trend.

As more people build homes closer to natural areas and closer to each other, the potential consequences of wildfire have increased. Officials in fire-prone areas are closely reviewing codes written for the "wildland-urban interface."

The International Code Congress has established a model code, the International Urban-Wildland Interface Code, and California's state fire marshal has developed Wildland Urban Interface Building Standards. These documents emphasize designs and materials that are less susceptible to ignition from firebrands and radiant heat. They effect choice of building products for roofing, siding, windows, trim, and even decks.

FRT wood is pressure-treated with fire retardants that reduce flame spread and smoke development in lumber and plywood. It is available in interior types and exterior products that retain fire retardance when exposed to the elements.

For more information on FRT wood, including videos on residential usage, visit www.usefrtw.com.

For practical homeowner tips, see www.firewise.org.

# # #

Author Bio: Huck DeVenzio is manager of marketing communications at Arch Wood Protection, Inc., a leading producer of wood treating chemicals and licensor of some of the best known brands of treated wood, including Wolmanized® lumber. Mr. DeVenzio has been involved with wood preservation since 1973. For more information, visit www.wolmanizedwood.com.

Chinese Drywall

Chinese Drywall

Chinese drywall is creating an enormous problem for some owners of new homes especially in the southern US around Florida. The problem is even worse for some homeowners because their insurance policies are being canceled due to the discovery of the Chinese Drywall. If you fear that your house has Chinese Drywall in it then you should read the following article about how to Identify Chinese Drywall.

You might be wondering if there are any tell tale signs of Chinese Drywall? There are in fact several hints to it’s existence including: the smell of rotten eggs throughout your home, copper pipes and wires turning black or labels on the back-side of the drywall saying “Made In China”.

Top 4 Selling Stationary Table Saws

Top Selling Table Saws

Table saws are one of the most important tools in any shop. If you have the luxury of a medium to large workshop the you can benefit from a large stationary table saw. Large stationary table saws provide extra horsepower and a larger work surface. These two benefits improve precision and safety. The following four stationary table saws are the top selling models on the market.

Powermatic 1791228K Model 64 Artisan 10-Inch Table Saw

A powerful 1-1/2-horsepower motor combined with rugged construction and 50-inch Accu-Fence system make the Artisan 10-inch table saw the premier table saw for the contractor, craftsman, or home hobbyist. Other features include the T-slot miter gauge, which increases accuracy and flexibility in stock width capabilities, and solid cast-iron extension wings, providing ruggedness for increased accuracy and longevity. The unitized wiring system is readily removed for portability. Shown with optional mobile base.

The Powermatic 1791228K is available for $1,099.99 from Amazon with FREE shipping.

DELTA 36-L51X-BC50 10-Inch Left Tilt 5-Horsepower Cabinet Saw

The DELTA 36-L51X-BC50 10-inch left tilt 5-horsepower cabinet saw can handle any job you throw at it without any problems thanks to a powerful 5-horsepower motor that makes it a perfect fit in a high-performance shop. This left-tilt version of the famous DELTA Unisaw has a computer-designed motor cover, a miter gauge, standard insert, and a 4-inch dust connector that will fit most common vacuums. Included is a commercial-grade 50-inch Biesemeyer fence system with adjustable steel support legs, as well as a carbide-tipped blade, cast iron extension wings. The table is 27-by-76-inches long. It is backed by a 5-year warranty.

The DELTA 36-L51X-BC50 is available for $2,386.42 with FREE shipping from Amazon.

Grizzly G1023SL 10″ Table Saw

Built with the same heavy steel cabinet and cast iron table as the extremely popular Model G1023S, this left-tilting saw became an instant hit when introduced last year. Just as with the G1023S, the motor is 3HP, single-phase, 220V and has a triple-belt pulley. The blade splitter has been redesigned from that of the G1023S for even easier adjustments, and the accurate and dependable Shop Fox Classic fence also comes as standard equipment.

The Grizzly G1023SL is for $1,075.00 from Amazon.

JET 708663PK JTAS-10XL50-W1 10-Inch Table Saw

10″ XACTA SAW Left Tilting Arbor Tablesaw with Left tilting blade for greater accuracy and safety. Choice of 3 HP, single phase; 5 HP, single or three phase. Comes standard with the XACTA FENCE II 30″ or 50″ Commercial. Both fences also offer a 12″ rip capacity to the left of the blade. Large precision-ground 27″ x 40″ cast iron table with two extension wings. Reinforced steel enclosed cabinet. Built-in slanted cabinet floor leading toward the standard 4″ steel dust port. Convenient front left rail-mounted magnetic on/off switch. Chrome-plated handwheels. Hinged steel motor cover. Totally enclosed, fan-cooled motor. Wide stance trunnion design to eliminate vibration and insure perfect blade alignment. Three matched v-belts mounted between the two arbor bearings for longer bearing life and greater stability. T-slotted table with precision mitre gauge. See-through blade guard with splitter and anti-kickback pawls. One-piece precision ground arbor. Standard Equipment XACTA FENCE II Precision fence system. Mitre gauge Blade guard/splitter. Cast iron extension wings. Cabinet-style stand. Dust port Blade not included. XACTA-LIFT All JTAS-10 Kits are available with the XACTA-LIFT router insert and deluxe fence built in.

The JET 708663PK JTAS-10XL50-W1 is available for $1,799.99 with FREE shipping from Amazon.

4 Great Ways to Save Money on Appliance Purchases

We all want to save a little green on our next big appliance purchase. Whether you’re upgrading for style (stainless looks great!), to save energy, or because your dishwasher just up and quit, here’s four great ways to save money on your next purchase.

Buy Used on Craigslist

If you’re buying an appliance to replace a broken one and you’re working with a tight budget, Craigslist is a great place to look. At any given time, there are hundreds of used appliances for sale, most at least 50% off retail. We’ve bought a refrigerator, washer, and dryer with good experiences, and our friends bought a refrigerator and a stove. Why is Craigslist great? Because at any given time, someone in your community will be upgrading a 3-year-old appliance to a brand new one, and you’ll like save more than a few hundred bucks upgrading. Want to know how much to pay? Here’s our rules: 1-2 years old: 50-60% of retail; 2-4 years: 40-50% of retail; 4-5 years: 30-40% of retail; 5+ years: 10-30%.

… or Get a Coupon

If you prefer new appliances to the used variety, make sure you pick up a coupon before purchasing. Almost all major retail stores offer online coupons for at least 10% or more. One Project Closer keeps a current list of Sears Coupons (including appliance coupons) that’s a good place to start. They also feature a number of ways to pickup a 10% off Lowes Coupon.

Install it Yourself

Whether you buy it from Craigslist or from a retailer, you can save $50-100 bucks by installing the appliance yourself. Installing a refrigerator is little more than plugging it in, and in if has a built in water dispenser, hooking up a single water line. Washers and dryers are similarly easy to install. Perhaps the most complicated appliance to install is a dishwasher, which requires only three hookups. Check out Home Construction Improvement for their instructions on installing a dishwasher.

Borrow a Truck and Haul away the Old One

Perhaps the simplest way to save money on appliance purchases is to haul the old appliance away yourself. Most districts will allow you to dump appliances for free. Many will recycle key components of a broken appliance before sending the remaining parts to a landfill. Hauling an appliance away yourself will save between $30-60 bucks.