Easy Ways to Protect Your Family Before a Disaster Strikes

If you knew that spending 15 minutes right now could save the people you love in the event of an emergency, would you do it? Of course you would!

During recent disasters like hurricanes, fires and tornadoes, one need has come to the forefront more than any other -- the need to get a victim's identification, medical history and emergency contact information as quickly as possible.

At Home

You spend all your time taking care of others, but what about you? If someone had to locate your contacts in a medical emergency, could they do it? Grab your address books (we know you have more than one!), your cell phone, PDA, Filofax and anything else you usually carry with you and let's get organized.

First, let's create a list of emergency information for each member of the family including:

Their name, age, address, phone number

The name of their primary physician

Allergies and any prescription drugs the person is taking

Chronic medical conditions and, anything else you would want an emergency physician to know.

At least three emergency contacts for each person:

1. For yourself, list your spouse's home, cell and work numbers, for your spouse, list your numbers. For your children, both you and your spouse's numbers.
2. Next for each person, the name and contact numbers of a nearby relative or good friend;
3. Then on each list, include the name and numbers of an out of state relative or friend. In case of regional emergency, you can often call long distance, even though you can't call locally. A distant friend ca1D5En be a touch point for the entire family until communication is restored.

Make several copies of each list and place them:

In an easy to find place near your main home phone

Place each child's list in his permanent school record, in addition to his regular emergency card. Place your and your spouse's list in your personnel files at work with your other emergency information. If you don't feel comfortable having it in your file, consider placing it in a sealed envelope to be opened only in an emergency, or put the information on a password protected CD.

With the person you chose to be your emergency contact.

You can also put this list in your computer, or PDA so you have it with you in an emergency.

Don't forget to ask the people you want to use as contacts, for their permission to use them. Some people might not feel comfortable having to be relied upon in an emergency and it's better to know that now!

Every six months put a reminder in your calendar to review and update all of your emergency plans.

Once you get your own contacts in order, book some time with your parents, kids and the other people that you love, to make sure, in case of a medical emergency involving them, that a hospital knows how to contact you.

Home/Cell Phone

Clearly indicate your emergency contacts on your main telephone speed dial. Don't use the person's name, use their relationship to you, ie. "parents", "sister", "husband", "work". Then do the same thing on your cell phone. After the London bombings a paramedic came up with the idea of putting "ICE" (in case of emergency) on your cell phone, with the number of your emergency contact. You can do that on your cell or simply put in "husband" or "home" like you did above. Make sure you do the same thing on your PDA, laptop or anything else you usually carry.

Protecting Children

In the days after 9/11, 2,100 children were left in daycare because their parents had never indicated on their daycare emergency cards, who should be called, if the parents were unable to get to them to pick them up.

Choose someone you would want them to be with, until you can get to them and make sure that information is on the child's emergency list and on his school's emergency contact card.

Since children don't carry wallets or drivers licenses, make sure that you put Shoewallets on younger children (see information later in this article) and that older children have emergency information in their backpack, on their cell phone or anything else they carry with them.

Emergency Plan

Make sure each member of the family knows what to do in an emergency, especially if you can't get back home, or if your home is uninhabitable.

Appoint a special place for everyone to meet away from home, and make sure everyone knows who your out of state point of contact is, in case you need to relay messages to each other. Keep that plan with the emergency lists, in an easy-to-find place. Some families have even put their emergency plans on wallet-sized cards, one for each member of the family.

Safeguarding Copies of Vital Information

As victims of Hurricane Katrina found, when you have to function after a major disaster, being without your driver's license, birth certificate, social security card or bank account numbers can be a huge problem.

Make a copy of all of your and your children's vital records and put them in bank safe deposit box or other secure place, preferably in two different locations. One of them should be in another city or state if possible.

If you're concerned about the security of hard copy documents, scan them onto a password protected CD, and store those instead of the hard copies.

Away From Home

Thousands of people a year end up as trauma patients in the emergency room after being hit by a car while crossing the street near their home or while jogging. So carrying contact information with you while you're walking or jogging isn't just a good idea, it's as necessary as your running shoes! Most accidents happen just a few blocks from home, just where people feel comfortable doing errands or going out for a run without their driver's license or other ID.

A Shoewallet, a small lightweight wallet you attach to your shoes, holds an emergency contact card, and a license/credit card/key, guaranteeing your info is always right where you need it. www.shoewallet.com/nokep

If you have a company ID badge, slip an emergency contact card into it for those quick runs out of the office for meetings or a snack.

Another way to make sure hospitals and emergency personnel can find your next of kin in an emergency, is to register your contact information free of charge at the Next of Kin Registry. NOKR is an internationally recognized resource designed to put you and your family together in case you are unconscious or unable to speak or give consent for treatment. www.nokr.org

Special Needs

If you or your family members have chronic medical conditions, you need to make your medical history and records easy to find in an emergency. Download your free Grab it and Go Form to capture all of your family's medical and emergency information and store it along with your other vital information. http://www.nokep.org/grabgoformdownload.htm

For the seniors in your life, make a plan for you and your relatives to take turns checking in with them every other day, to make sure everything is all right. It might also be a good idea to invest in an emergency monitoring system with a button they can press in case of a fall or other emergency.

For Alzheimer's patients, those with dementia or the mentally disabled you might have to use a combination of these tips. A Shoewallet would provide emergency ID in a place the patient won't be able to disturb. The Alzheimer's Association has a wonderful program called "Safe Return, which provides a bracelet and special tips in protecting patients who wander. And signing the person up on the Next of Kin Registry, gives an extra layer of protection in case they become lost or hurt.

Your Family's Action Plan

You can find even more information about keeping your family, emergency information and vital documents safe in the Safer Family Action Plan. Download your copy today at http://www.nokep.org/fmp.htm

Laura and Janet Greenwald, are the founders of The Next of Kin Education Project
To download a free copy of these Emergency Tips or for more information go to: http://www.nokep.org.

Home Building Links

Solar Power System - How To Know Which Type You Need

There are many choices when deciding which solar power system is right for you. This article provides a brief run through of three of the more common solar power systems.

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Mold Testing - Forensic Science Investigation for your Family's Health

If you have reason to believe you have a mold problem in your home, you may need to consider getting professional help. Investigating your own home for mold problems is certainly a step you should take, but if your sleuthing does not come up with solid evidence then you will need to get mold testing done. Though it is an expense most homeowners would prefer to avoid, mold can be a serious health issue and should not be taken lightly.

Investigating on your own before bringing in a professional is fine, so long as your investigations do not end up disturbing mold and spreading the dangerous spores into the air. The easiest way to begin searching for mold is to follow your nose; mold and mildew have a distinctive smell, which is generally associated with damp surroundings. Indeed, mold needs moisture to survive, so the best place to start is any area where you know there has been water leaking or seeping into the home. This could be something 2206as large as a roof or plumbing leak, or simple condensation from constant steamy showers or an improperly tuned air conditioning unit.

Surface mold is easily detected, and generally easy to dispose of. Many commercial mold killers exist on the market and most do a fine job. The more insidious types of mold, however, are often hidden behind walls or under carpets, and this is where mold testing comes in.

Professional mold testers have the tools and expertise to uncover mold hidden in many parts of the household. Often they will take cultures and grow the mold spores in a lab, to discover what kinds of mold are growing, and whether they are benign or dangerous. Though scent is a good indicator of mold, it is not always practical to sniff around the entire home, and sometimes areas are missed. Also, some types of molds are less 'nose-worthy' than others, though no less damaging to your families health.

If you have had a leak or flood or other water intensive problem in the home, there is a good chance that mold has had a chance to grow. Mold spores simply float around in the air, and it doesn't take much to allow them to thrive. However, unless the area remains moist, the mold will dry up. This doesn't mean the problem is necessarily solved, as the spores still end up airborne, and ultimately breathed in.

If your own investigations have proved fruitless, but you are still convinced there may be mold in the home, then mold testing is imperative. The cost can be significant, however, so it is best to try and find out as much on your own as possible. However, the cost is often worth it, when hidden mold is discovered in places you might not have expected.

It is also a good idea to have mold testing done when buying a home, as part of the general building inspection, as the history of the home is not always disclosed. In the event of a flood, professional mold removal services can be quite ruthless, often cutting out large pieces of wallboard to remove and sanitize mold breeding grounds. Some homeowners prefer to avoid the expense of this kind of large-scale disaster relief, but the result can often be hidden mold in the walls. As a home buyer, you want to be sure that you are not buying hidden mold as well.

Though mold testing can be expensive, if you suspect there may be mold but you have not been able to find any, it may be worth it. Mold can cause many serious illnesses, particularly respiratory sickness, so removing mold is imperative. The cost of not testing for, and removing mold will ultimately be born by the health of your family.

For more information on mold testing and household mold, please visit:
http://www.HealthyHomeFacts.com
Brent Craig is a writer and researcher with an interest in healthy home options.

Six Clay Pipe Roof Dormer

Recovering From Bankruptcy - Re-Establishing Your Credit

If you have filed for bankruptcy you have been through a very stressful, and probably humiliating, time in your life. It can be traumatizing to realize that you have hit rock bottom financially and you may feel panicked or shaky about what this means for your future.

You may feel guilty for what you were not able to pay. Or you may still be working your way out of Chapter 7 non-dischargeable debt such as student loans. Or you're trying to keep disciplined about paying off what you owe under your Chapter 13 bankruptcy payment plan. If you declared bankruptcy before certain expenses hit, new expenses may now be coming due. Keep working with professionals until you are through the process and for as long as you need their services while you rebuild. Get the emotional support you need from family and friends and try to keep a clear head.

If an unexpected life event has caused your debt trouble, make sure you're taking care of yourself and accepting friends' offers of help while you're sorting out your financial situation. If unrestrained spending has created your debt problems, you may want to think about getting some professional counseling help to identify the root of your overspending and what potential "triggers" to look for so you don't re-create the problem in the future.

Regardless of what caused your financial crisis, once your debts have been discharged, you have done what you could. Give yourself an emotional clean slate. Allow yourself a new start. Focus on ways you can begin, step by step, to create a different financial future. Here are a few tips to get on good, solid footing for your new beginning:

• Create a budget. Maintaining self-discipline over your spending is really important in order to re-establish your credit. Having a budget puts your financial reality on paper and keeps it right in front of you. Creating and sticking to a budget is a great tool to boost your money management confidence and to give you some real resources and hope for a new, financially secure future.

• Keep things stable. Credit bureaus and future creditors like to see that you have a stable employment history, residence, payment habits, etc. Start by staying in your current residence and job for a few years. Pay your bills on time and keep receipts of all paid bills.

• Open an account. If you don't already have a checking or savings account, open one up and keep more than the minimum required in the account. Creditors like to see that you can manage your money wisely.

• Use your credit card...wisely. After you've filed for bankruptcy, or even if you're just trying to repair your credit, using a credit card or charge card wisely can actually help you. Creditors like to see that you use your credit or charge cards consistently, and that you pay the bill consistently - on time and more than the minimum. If you can't get a credit card because of your bankruptcy, see if you can find someone to cosign on the card or apply for a secured card. A secured card is when you deposit money into a savings account with your local bank and then they give you a credit card with a line of credit for the amount of money in your account.

• Think ahead about future expenses. Part of managing money wisely means thinking ahead about potential expenses in the near or long-term future and planning for how you will be able to pay for them. For example, you could begin by making a list of your bi-annual or annual insurance premiums, car inspection renewal costs, magazine subscription costs, club or association dues, sports team fees, etc. Budget for those expenses! If you lost your house, or still want to purchase a home, use that as a goal for managing day-to-day and future expenses. It will be a few years before you will be able to build up sufficient savings and credit to be eligible for a mortgage, but you can start rebuilding your dreams now.

• Consider planning for contingencies. If you've come right up to the edge of not being able to pay your debts, or even if you've crossed that line into bankruptcy, you know how life events can dramatically change your financial circumstances. To best care for yourself and your family, consider how you would answer the questions:

  • What would happen if you or a working partner lost your/their job?
  • What would happen if you or another family member experienced a catastrophic illness?

  • What would happen if you or another family member suffered major property loss due to theft, fire, or natural disaster?

• Start saving. Make it a goal to save enough money to cover at least 3 months of expenses in the event of an emergency.

With persistence and self-discipline you should be able to rebuild your credit within 3-5 years. Don't lose heart! It probably took you a while to get into financial difficulty, but with a plan and some discipline you can turn it around and get on solid financial footing again.

Stay Vigilant and keep an eye on your credit...

For more information on Credit Repair or Bankruptcy visit my blog at http://creditprotector.blogspot.com/

Thanks, Donald Martin

Shaped Wood Shingle Siding

From Work to Home - How to Survive the Transition From Full Time Work to Stay At Home Motherhood

As a new mother, do you feel snowed under with life changes that come with a new baby? I vividly remember this difficult time. Before we had out first child, I was on the management staff of a local treatment center. It was an office filled with a lot going on, people that filled my day with problem solving skills, adult conversation a great deal of mental stimulation.

After my daughter was born, and the family and friends had all left, I suddenly was alone with this incredible Silence. For the first few days it was rather enjoyable, no one to interfere just me and my girl. But, then it became overwhelming. My days were filled with the monotony of feedings, changing diapers, naps, more feedings, more diapers, and less naps. The mental stimulation was absent, and I was starting to get depressed and not sure of how to cope with this new world I had really wanted, but had not anticipated.

This can leave many new moms feeling like a failure, inadequate, and even depressed. If left unresolved, this can be unhealthy not only for us, but our children as well

Survival Tips

1. Recognize this is a definite life change

The difference between working full time and being a full time stay at home mom can be huge. At work, you have a set schedule. You know when you begin and end. As a mom, you are always on duty. At work, you may have a support staff to help you make phone calls, handle email and other errands. As a mom, you are the support staff. For some moms, just seeing the difference can be helpful.

2. Get Connected

God has created us to be in community with others, and to support one another. Galatians 6:2 tells us to Carry one another's burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Check your paper for some local moms groups, or local churches for womens bible studies. Call your local gym to see if there are any classes for new moms. Exercise is a great way to meet new people.

3. Ask for help.

One of the things I have noticed as a counselor is the freedom that comes from admitting we are struggling. Somewhere, as women we believe that to ask for any help is sign of weakness. We begin to isolate and stay to ourselves. King Solomon saw the importance of asking for help: Eccl 4:9-11 Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their efforts. For if either falls, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to lift him up. Also, if two lie down together, they can keep warm; but how can one person alone keep warm?

Find a few other people that have walked the journey of parenting that you admire. Feel free to ask them questions. There is wisdom in many. We have all heard kids dont come with manuals. All the more reason to ask other people for their advice.

4. Be open to redefine yourself.

It is okay if you feel like you are not the same person that you were before you gave birth. Parenting changes people. It tends to reshape priorities, and bring a sense of relaxation when needed. Those that are able to parent with a sense of humor seem to enjoy it more. The newborn days were a growth time for us as parents and our daughter.

5. Be Flexible

There are many books that stress the importance of getting a newborn into a schedule. I concur that babies do better when they have a routine. However, as they grow and develop their routines change. Flexibility is an essential for survival.

Making the transition from work to home can feel like a whirlwind. Being intentional about getting connected, and asking for help will help you rebuild the stability you may be seeking. Flexibility and openness will result in growth, allowing you to be a better parent.

(All Scriptures from Holman Christian Standard Bible Copyright 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 by Holman Bible Publishers.)

Terre Grable is Christian licensed professional counselor in Franklin, Tennessee. She enjoys helping couples strengthen and rebuild intimacy within thier marriage and relationships, and helping parents and teens become better friends when they feel like enemies.

http://www.terregrable.com

Home Mold Test Kits

How Much Is Your Logo Worth?

Nowadays, with the rapid progress of high technology, almost nothing is hard to do. Everything is easy, even more, things are done instantly. People get less care about the quality, it seems like it's not important anymore. The word good is replaced with instant. That's what people need.

With that kind of situation, art or design field is not an exception. We can find hundreds or even thousands of companies or individuals who offer logo design service which can be done in only days (which normally take months) on the internet. Not only fast, it is much cheaper as well!!

I was once visited the very well known online company website who offers freelancers to get the job done from the various field. As a freelance graphic designer, I was interested to join, I thought it would nice to get a job online from worldwide even I have to bid and win to get the project.

I was shocked when I was browsing around and find out that the highest budget that the clients offer is around $179 for logo design.

Sure! It would be easier and quicker for me to design a logo with the $179 budget! But, as a professional designer, I have the responsibility to design a logo based on understanding corporate mission, philosophy, beliefs, objective, goals, and anything related to the company or product that I can dig in and then translate it into a written concept.

No doubt that it can NOT be done only in several days! Not even a week! Not to mention the designing process itself. Without such in-depth understanding, the logo designer will not be able to translate any corporate values into a coherent, creative graphics. The logo will be soulless.

The CEOs or the company owners who really understand how important the logo is, will not approve the logo design until they are really, really, really satisfied. A good logo design has to reflect all the important corporate value. Logo is definitely much more than just an illustration or graphics to put on business card or signboard in front of your office!

A good logo design has to be created from nothing to final high quality artworks, not just a combination of text and pre-designed icons related to the core business. Logo designers should not design an IT or network company logo using repeatedly circular or ellipse kind of shape, or visualize spa service using a water-drop, or golf related company using golf-ball. It has to be much MORE than that!

Logo designers have to provide a book of Graphic Standard Manual (GSM) which contains of how to apply logo on any media, such as business card, letterhead, envelope, packaging, merchandise, signboard, vehicles, etc. to complete their job. Thats how much the logo should worth and thats what logo designers get high-paid for! Logo has to be done by logo designers, not logo makers. Logo design should be considered as an investment, not a cost!

Anton Ardjanggi : Jakarta-Indonesia based freelance graphic designer
anardlogo

Home Mold Test Kits

Logical Consequences: 5 Parenting Solutions and 1 Mistake

Have you ever given your child an illogical consequence? I have. I learned how my kids tricked me too. Don't make this mistake.

Being a working mom, like many of you, I was so busy. Although I loved gardening, I never had enough time to weed the rain ditch in front of our home. When my boys misbehaved I thought I had the perfect solution. "Go out to the ditch and pull a bucket of weeds," I'd order.

I never noticed how quickly they pulled the weeds. I did wonder why the ditches never looked weeded. Since I was usually working in the kitchen, the boys would open the front door and yell up the stairs, "Here are the weeds, Mom." I'd look down the stairs and nod, "OK." Then I'd go about fixing dinner and they'd go off to play.

Now they're adults. They recently told me their "dirty" little secret. They loaded their buckets with dirt and weeds from our compost pile. They also pulled out a few fresh weeds to top off their buckets. They knew I'd never come downstairs to check their buckets. They knew I'd never guess their "dirty" little secret.

So what did I do wrong? You got it. Two things:

I didn't check their work closely.
My consequence for their misbehavior suited me but it didn't suit their conduct.

My consequence wasn't logical. What can you do to avoid my mistake? Make sure your consequences are logical. How? Make sure they fit the misbehavior.

Here are 5 examples:

If your children fight over the TV controller no TV.
If your child punches a hole in the wall - make him/her fix it.
If your child leaves toys around take those toys away for a week.
If your child calls his sister bad names require him or her to apologize nicely.
If your child won't eat the dinner you fix let your child go to bed hungry.

If you think before you speak, you'll be creating consequences that fit the misbehavior. You won't be making my mistake and you will be helping your children grow. You'll be building character too.

Jean Tracy, MSS, "Granny Jean" invites you to subscribe to her FREE top-rated Parenting Newsletter, "Tips and Tools for Character Builders" at http://www.KidsDiscuss.com

At http://www.KidsDiscuss.com you'll find fun dilemmas to discuss with your kids at the dinner table, in the car, and on vacations, and during family meetings. You'll also find Granny's Character Building books and tools.

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Removing Walls Is Easier

Coronary Heart Disease - Your Heart Is Your Responsibility

In the world of disease, there is none as dangerous to the American population as coronary heart disease. Claiming nearly a million lives annually, coronary heart disease is responsible for more deaths than the next seven causes of non-violent death combined. Controlling and preventing heart disease deserves the full attention of both the US medical community, and of every individual American. Is there anything you can do to reduce your won chances of developing coronary heart disease?

Because coronary heart disease is the result of atherosclerosis, or the build up fatty plaque on the arterial walls, narrowing them and limiting or blocking the flow of blood to the heart, keeping the arteries free of plaque is essential to preventing coronary heart disease.

There are factors which can increase your risk of coronary heart disease; it is hereditary, and if someone in your family developed it, especially before they reached fifty, your chances of developing it are higher than normal.

Your risk will also increase if you have high blood pressure or diabetes, are obese or do not get adequate exercise, or have too much bad cholesterol and too little good cholesterol. Post-menopausal women are at greater risk for coronary heart disease than pre-menopausal ones.

The primary weapons in the battle against developing coronary heart disease are diet and exercise, and elimination of tobacco use. Saturated fats and trans fats common in red meats and fried and processed foods are big contributors to clogged arteries; replace at least fifty percent of the red meat you eat with fish--especially wild salmon, tuna, sardines and mackerel.

Grill or roast foods instead of frying them, and replace the processed snacks with fresh fruit and vegetables. Blueberries are showing exceptional promise in ridding the body of bad LDL cholesterol. Controlling your salt intake will help lower your blood pressure, and decrease your risk of developing coronary heart disease.

If you dont exercise regularly, you are inviting coronary heart disease. You dont need to start training for marathons; just add a little activity where you can so that you are up and moving for at least thirty minutes each day. Start planning daily walks; climb stairs whenever you can; park at the furthest end of the parking lot at work. If you go to the mall, park as far as you can from the stores in which you intend to shop.

For those in whom coronary heart disease has already developed, medication and surgery may be indicated. Angioplasty to clear blocked arteries by implanting them with inflatable balloons is quite common; but in very serious cases of coronary heart disease, heart bypass surgery may be necessary.

You can also find more info on Congenital Heart Disease and Congestive Heart Disease. Treatheartdiseasehelp.com is a comprehensive resource to know about Heart Diseases.

Building A Family Room Addition
Roofing Room Additions

Easy Bun Workouts for the Couch Potato

You don't want to miss the next episode of Law and Order, or House, or South Park. Understood. But you also don't want a rear end the size of Alaska. So, what's a girl to do?

Unlike the breasts, which are made primarily of fat, the buttocks are made primarily of three muscles - the gluteus maximus (largest), the gluteus medius, and the gluteus minimus. Muscles respond well to toning exercises, so if you follow a bun workout program, you'll soon have a firm, shapely bun. And when are you supposed to find time for this kind of exercise, you ask? Well, rather than skipping commercials, why not use each commercial break to do a different bun workout? You won't miss a minute of your television programs, but by the end of the episode, you'll have had a good bun workout.

What exercises can you do? Here are a couple easy bun workouts that you can do to get you in shape fast:

Bun Workout #1: Lift and Balance

Start out on your hands and knees. Stretch your right leg out behind you, keeping your toes on the floor. While squeezing your buns together, raise your right leg to hip level.

Hold for five seconds. Then return to starting position and repeat with the left leg.

Bun Workout #2: Stairs

Yep, just walking up and down a set of stairs can be a great bun workout. If you live in a two-story home or if your home has a basement, you can walk up and down the stairs and it won't cost you a thing. If your home does not have a set of stairs anywhere, you may want to invest in an exercise bench. If you're using a bench, step up with your right foot, draw your left foot up onto the bench beside your right foot. Step back with the right foot, and so forth.

You don't have to be a hardcore exercise fanatic who works out for hours every day to have firm buns. A few minutes of your television time will do quite nicely.

For Part 2 of Easy Bun Work Outs, please visit: Great Ways To Firm Your Buns at Womans-Health.Net. Other work out articles include: Free Weight Training Exercises, and Female Strength Training Techniques.

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Colonial Style Porch Ceiling

Eco-Brokers

There is no shock in saying that the current state of our planet from an ecological basis is worrying. Summers are getting hotter, winters are getting colder and the planet seems to be moving more into extremes of weather with every passing year. It is only recently that society seems to be really getting on board with plans to improve the world's condition and to this end there is a new designation available for real estate professionals, the Eco-Broker. Following the lead of many different groups and societies that not only alerted the general public to the current state of affairs but have brought forth some of the new technology and ideas that could stand to save our home, Eco-Brokers are a new breed of brokers who are educated and knowledgeable about the possibilities that home owners have in installing and purchasing eco-friendly technology for homes.

Now more than ever the environment is becoming a real concern. One thing that has damaged the environment significantly is our dependence on forms of energy that are either non-renewable or environmentally damaging. This can caused a real surge of research and development of appliances and gadgetry for the home that does not exact such a high toll on our environment. From energy efficient appliances to complete green design for homes, Eco-Brokers are at the forefront of education and implementation of these ideas. There are a huge number of new technologies that one can employ to make a home more friendly on the environment. Something as simplistic and ensuring that the home is properly sealed can save an incredible amount in heating and cooling bills or something as extreme as a complete solar power system can almost nullify the energy drain of a home.

There is a real move towards an eco-friendly society and we as a society should hope that it is not too late. Humanity has taken a real toll on the planet and it is something that we can see on a daily basis from the increased number of storms to the rising heat and the melting of the polar icecaps. The planet is clearly sending out a message that we need to make some changes to the way that we live our lives. Eco-Brokers are brining this change to the front lines of the real estate industry. If we are to make these changes then they need to start at home with individuals before they can become a greater part of society. After all without our planet, what do we have?

Branden Schroeder is a Realtor serving the Maryland real estate market. For more info on Maryland real estate contact Branden or visit online at http://www.marylandhomesandproperty.com

Shaped Wood Shingle Siding

Keys For Effective Electrical Troubleshooting

Equipment can malfunction for a variety of reasons. Mechanical contacts and parts can wear out; wires can overheat and burn open or short out; parts can be damaged by impact or abrasion; etc. Equipment may operate in a manner far different than it was designed to, or not at all.

Typically, when equipment fails there is a sense of urgency to get it fixed and working again. If the defective equipment is part of an assembly line, the whole assembly line could be down causing unexpected 'time off' and lost revenue. If you are at a customer site to repair equipment, the customer may watch you, knowing that they are paying for every minute you spend troubleshooting and repairing their equipment. Either one of these scenarios - and there are more, can put a lot of pressure on you to solve the problem quickly.

So What is troubleshooting? It is the process of analyzing the behavior or operation of a faulty circuit to determine what is wrong with the circuit. It then involves identifying the defective component(s) and repairing the circuit. Depending on the type of equipment, troubleshooting can be a very challenging task. Sometimes problems are easily diagnosed and the problem component easily visible. Other times the symptoms as well as the faulty component can be difficult to diagnose. A defective relay with visual signs of burning should be easy to spot, whereas an intermittent problem caused by a high resistance connection can be much more difficult to find.

What makes an expert Troubleshooter? One trait of expert troubleshooters is that they are able to find virtually any fault in a reasonable amount of time. Easy faults, complicated faults, they find them all. Another trait is that they typically replace only the components that are defective. They seem to have a knack for finding out exactly what is wrong. No trial and error here. So what is their secret?

You might think that a person who has a very good understanding of how the equipment works, should be able to troubleshoot it effectively. Being a good at troubleshooting requires more than this.

Expert troubleshooters have a good understanding of the operation of electrical components that are used in circuits they are familiar with, and even ones they are not. They use a system or approach that allows them to logically and systematically analyze a circuit and determine exactly what is wrong. They also understand and effectively use tools such as prints, diagrams and test instruments to identify defective components. Finally, they have had the opportunity to develop and refine their troubleshooting skills.

If you want to troubleshoot like the pros you will need to develop your skills in each of these areas. Let's look at them in more detail.

1. Understand how the circuit works. This consists of understanding the operation of all the components that are used in the circuit. This could include such components as: push buttons, contactors, various types of switches, relays, sensors, motors, etc. Electrical circuits typically control or operate mechanical systems and components. You also need to understand how these mechanical aspects of the equipment operate to carry out the work.

   You need to be able to determine how the circuit works under normal conditions and what effect changing one of the circuit inputs has on the circuit operation. For example, what happens to the overall circuit operation when a push button is pressed; which relays energize, which lights illuminate, does the pump start or stop, etc. You also need to be able to determine what effect a faulty component may have on the circuit operation.

2. Use a logical, systematic approach to analyze the circuit's behavior. This is critical. There are several approaches that troubleshooters use. They may have different steps or processes but they have the following in common: They all approach problems systematically and logically thus minimizing the steps and ruling out trial and error. One such approach used to teach troubleshooting is called the '5 Step Approach'. A summary of the key steps are:
   • Observe Most faults provide clues as to their cause. There could be visual clues such as signs of damage or improper operation. Don't forget to use your other senses; sounds and smells can also provide valuable clues. Through careful observation and a some reasoning, most faults can be identified to the actual component with very little testing.
   • Define Problem Area At this stage you apply logic and reasoning to your observations to determine the problem area of the malfunctioning equipment.
   • Identify Possible Causes Once you have the problem area(s) defined it is necessary to identify all the possible causes of the malfunction.
   • Determine Most Probable Cause Once the list of possible causes has been made it is necessary to prioritize the items as to the possibility of them being the actual cause of the malfunction.
   • Test and Repair Once you have determined the most probable cause, you must test it to prove it to be the problem or not.

   See A Systematic Approach to Troubleshooting for more details on this approach.

3. Understand how to use tools such as prints, diagrams and test instruments to identify defective components. Let's first look at prints and diagrams. Some of the key things you should be able to determine from these are:
   • how the circuit should operate
   • what kind of features the circuit has
   • what voltages you should expect at various points on the circuit
   • where components are physically located
   • how the components are actually wired together
   Various types of test instruments are available for testing electrical circuits. The ones you choose depends on the type of circuit and its components. A common test instrument which is invaluable to a troubleshooter is a Multimeter. It is capable of measuring voltage and resistance with some meters capable of other measurements such as current and capacitance. You must be able to determine what type of test instrument to use, when and where to use it, and how to safely take readings with it.

4. Practice! Troubleshooting, like any skill, requires practice to become proficient. Practice can be difficult to get. Depending on your job, you may not have the opportunity for enough troubleshooting practice. And even if you do, your employer may not want you to practice troubleshooting on equipment they depend on. Until you become reasonably competent, it is best to practice troubleshooting in a controlled environment. One option is to build or purchase equipment that can be used for troubleshooting. This equipment is designed with the ability to apply faults to it. Here you can practice your skills in a very realistic environment without affecting equipment in use.

   Another option which is gaining more popularity is the use of computer simulations. These simulations can be extremely realistic and allow you to practice your troubleshooting skills in a safe environment. Some other advantages are portability, cost effectiveness, and can be used in almost any location. Some even include an assessment function that assesses the user's troubleshooting skill, provides feedback, and records their troubleshooting processes.

Review your own skills in each of these areas. Improving any one of them, along with a good dose of practice, will improve your troubleshooting skills.

This article is published by collaoration between author Warren Rhude and Business Industrial Network. http://www.bin95.com/

A series of award winning simulations for learning electrical troubleshooting skills has been developed by the author. Click http://www.bin95.com/electrical_software_downloads.htm for more information on these programs or http://www.industrial-ebooks.com/ to download free demos.

Home Mold Test Kits

DIY Deck Building

When planning your deck building, you will want to look carefully at the deck railing choices that are available. Many people choose to build a deck themselves as a project, because a deck can make a big difference in the look and feel of your home. It also adds value to your home and may even be a focal point of your home. A deck will also give you a great place to entertain during the warmer months.

Deck railing comes in many different styles, sizes, and designs. You will want to make sure that the deck railing that you choose blends with the deck pattern that you have chosen. Planning and preparation is an essential part of your deck planning and building. If you prepare and plan carefully, you will find that a deck can give you years of fun and enjoyment.

Things to Consider

Here are some things that you need to consider when choosing which deck and railing pattern that you are going to us:

Location You first need to determine where you are going to build your deck. The size of your home and how it is located on your land will have a big impact upon your deck placement. You need to remember that you may have several options for your deck, including enclosing the deck for privacy or making a walkway to your deck.

Climate The climate of the area that you live in is also very important. A moist environment will dictate what kind of material that will work best for your deck railings and deck.

Style You want to choose a deck that will enhance the look of your home. For example, you will not want to put a traditional, colonial railing on a home with a contemporary style. Be certain that you keep the style of your home in mind when looking at patterns for your deck and rails.

Size The rails that you choose will be dependent upon the size and shape of your deck. You want to check with your local government, neighborhood covenant, or homeowners association because there may be limits on the size of deck and the design of the deck that you can build in your yard. If you build against their wishes, then you could be looking at steep fines or you may have to tear down your deck and rebuild it according to their specifications.

Shape Consider the shape of your desired deck when you are looking for a deck plan. You can usually find plans for almost any shape of deck, but you will want to carefully look at the plans to make sure that it meets your desires.

Preparation is the key to finding the best deck and railing pattern for your particular yard and desires. By simply doing some preparation and planning, you will find that your deck choice can give you years of fun and enjoyment.

Andrew Caxton contributes adding long articles on deck plans for http://www.deck-porch-railings.com A website with tips on deck railing plans

Home Mold Test Kits

Wholesale Modular Homes - Your DIY Skills Can Really Pay Off

If youre a skilled DIYer with construction experience, a Wholesale Modular Homes Program may be perfect for you. There are many modular home manufacturers across the US who have wholesale modular home programs, and as long as you are capable of taking on some of the tasks normally assigned to a modular home builder, you can save considerably on the already low price of you modular home.

Retail Vs. Wholesale
A retail home builder sells homes directly to consumers for their personal use. A wholesaler usually sells products to a retail home builder who uses them in constructing projects. But a wholesale modular homes seller offers homes to consumers wholesaler after factory-assembling after assembling the modules from which the completed home will be built with all the products like plumbing, wiring, insulation, and pipes already installed.

Where wholesale modular homes differ from retail modular homes is in the construction process. The retail modular home construction will include digging and pouring its foundation, finishing its interior and exterior, and connecting its electrical, water, and septic systems. But if you or your friends are handy or have home building experience, or know how to find subcontractors, you can opt for a wholesale modular homes program.

What A Wholesale Builder Does
In a wholesale modular homes program, the homes manufacturer will produce and delver the homes modules to your building site, where you have already had the foundation dug and poured. The manufacturer will arrange for a crane to mount your individual modules on the permanent foundation, and for a crew to attach them. You will also get the materials necessary to complete your roof; the crew will complete it and also nail the structures of the home together.

A wholesale modular homes program will leave you with ah home which is from seventy-five to eighty percent complete, depending on the complexity of its plans. All modular homes are engineered to meet the building cods of the areas in which they will be constructed, so you wont have to worry about the inspection process.

What You Will Do
What you will have to do, or hire someone to do, is connect your modular home to its utilities sources, and finish its interiors and exterior. While having to do this yourself may delay the time before your modular home is ready for occupancy, the money you save will be considerable.

Mountain View Homes and Development Homes of Tennessee, for instance, has a wholesale modular homes program which offers a one-year warranty on all work done by their own crews, and will let you buy a four-bedroom, three-bath 1700-square foot two story home for less than $104,000. They have many other wholesale modular homes as well, and their program is typical of wholesale modular homes programs across the US.

You can also find more info on Wholesale Modular Homes and Modular Homes. 1modularhomes.com is a comprehensive resource to get information about Modular Homes.

Homeowners Clinic Expert Q & A - March 2006

When it comes to interior finishing, properly installed drywall is the first step to a room that's crisp and pleasing. Learning how to install this ubiquitous building material requires the kind of pro-level information that this book delivers. In 159 pages it explains its topic in a methodical fashion, taking the reader through the material itself, the fasteners needed to install it, the tools needed, estimating its quantity, attaching, and--of course--applying tape and compound to hide the seams. It's an indispensable reference if you'll be finishing an attic, basement or an addition. It costs about $15 at bookstores. For more information, visit creativehomeowner.com.--R.B.

Bored with the old paintings and curtains? Want to give a new look to your house with opulent accessories? Worried over money! Dont bother as money solution is at hand helping you make amendments in your home.

With home improvement loans you can make all the necessary changes to give a fresh look to your home. These are defined as a financial support provided to renovate and beautify your home, which will add up the equity value. The finance availed through this particular type of loan can be used for the construction of a new room, painting the wall, construction of a landscape or a swimming pool, or a conservatory. Many loan borrowers use the loan amount for white washing, purchasing new furniture, replacing of windows, etc.

There are multiple lenders in the market to provide with the financial help for any purpose. Loan seekers must obtain free loan quotes from various lenders to identify the right loan plan suited with their current circumstances.

No doubt, the customer after hearing this will be too curious about the interest rates. As there are a lot numbers of loan lenders, in the financial market, the competition between them is a stiff one. This has automatically brought down the interest rates of home improvement loans to a competitive level making it more convenient for the borrower. Depending upon your credit history, current circumstances, debt to income ratio, the interest rate is determined ranging from 6%-20%.

When home improvement loans are available on easy terms to raise the value of your home, shed down the worries and start with your renovation work. Refurnish your home, renovate the exteriors and enjoy the new breeze of relaxation and happiness. Make sure to scour the market through various free loan quotes to avoid any future embarrassments.

For more information about free loan quotes, secured homeowner loans and homeowner loans Please visit our website.

Plumbing Problems May Require a Plumbing Contractor

Plumbing is something everyone must deal with, whether finding a plumbing contractor for new construction, a remodeling project, or just providing plumbing repair.

When Do I Need to Call a Plumbing Contractor?

Some common problems found with plumbing include: Rattling pipes; may be caused by several factors, most commonly because they are not sufficiently secured or strapped to the wall frame. The pipes may need to be properly secured. Slow drains; may be partially clogged. If a kitchen sink, the dishwasher may be improperly plumbed. The drain may need to be unclogged, or the dishwasher plumbing corrected. Loss of hot water when another faucet is turned on; especially in older homes when hot and cold water pressures are not balanced. A pressure balance valve may be required. Toilet tank leaks; plumbing parts inside the tank or seals may need replacing.

To make sure these plumbing repair problems are properly addressed, or when doing a remodeling project, you may want to enlist the services of a licensed plumbing contractor.

Plumbing a Remodel or New Construction

A remodeling project might include new plumbing design or new plumbing installation. You will want to meet with the plumber and all contractors involved and develop a timeline, so everyone works together and the project goes smoothly.

Before taking bids from potential plumbing contractors, make sure you have detailed plans. Provide each candidate with an identical copy of the plans. Rule of thumb is to get at least three different bids for a project.

Ask candidates if they are licensed to do plumbing. Also request references. Ask each candidate when they could start, and when the project would be completed. Take the time to check references on other projects they have completed.

To find a licensed Plumbing contractor in your area, use references from people you know, or check with a local licensing agency. Online resources are also available; people in Canada can find a qualified, licensed plumbing contractor at www.handycanadian.com.

Max Sheppard is Co-Owner of HandyCanadian.com: where homeowners locate professional plumbing contractors, and qualifying contractor.asp?cus_type=3">contractors acquire new leads.

Home Mold Test Kits

Why Do Americans Hate The Open Golf Tournament?

Of course that's a sweeping generalisation, not all Americans hate The Open, but it's a point worthy of discussion, so here's what I think...

As I write this, the 2007 Open is taking place in Carnoustie Scotland.

Tiger Woods is bidding to be the first player in around 50 years to win the tournament 3 times in a row, so he is one American that doesn't hate it, but let's take a look at why a lot do.

The fact it's being held in Scotland for one! The game of golf was invented in Scotland, although the US would like to claim it as their own. Their tends to be an attitude that the US is the home of golf, and any golf outside the US is a lesser event.

Hmm...
The Open is the oldest tournament, and the most prestigious. That's why it's simply called The Open. The Americans like to call is the British Open, but that's just an invention of theirs to try and put the US Open on the same level.S

The Open is always held on a links golf course, which basically means by the sea. This leads to fierce winds, deep straggly rough and unpredictable greens.

This is unfamiliar territory for the American golfer, used to playing in balmy temperatures on manicured courses.

The Open can be contested by anyone who qualifies, which means the Americans have to compete with players who don't qualify for 'their US tour'.

So to sum up, let's not forget that many Americans love The Open. They love the game of golf, and what The Open means to it, but plenty of Americans don't like it because it is played outside the US, holds top sway in a worldwide game they'd like to be in control of, and is played in circumstances they don't normally get.

Don't believe me?
Well, remember that the Superbowl, which the Americans modestly call the greatest show on earth, is basically a domestic championship, but the winners are called 'World Champions'!!

Gordon Bryan is the author of 'Make Money From Sport,' a guide where he takes you through the single technique he uses again and again to profit from any sport! Find out more at: http://www.gordonbryan.com/makemoneyfromsport

Shaped Wood Shingle Siding

From Work to Home - How to Survive the Transition From Full Time Work to Stay At Home Motherhood

As a new mother, do you feel snowed under with life changes that come with a new baby? I vividly remember this difficult time. Before we had out first child, I was on the management staff of a local treatment center. It was an office filled with a lot going on, people that filled my day with problem solving skills, adult conversation a great deal of mental stimulation.

After my daughter was born, and the family and friends had all left, I suddenly was alone with this incredible Silence. For the first few days it was rather enjoyable, no one to interfere just me and my girl. But, then it became overwhelming. My days were filled with the monotony of feedings, changing diapers, naps, more feedings, more diapers, and less naps. The mental stimulation was absent, and I was starting to get depressed and not sure of how to cope with this new world I had really wanted, but had not anticipated.

This can leave many new moms feeling like a failure, inadequate, and even depressed. If left unresolved, this can be unhealthy not only for us, but our children as well

Survival Tips

1. Recognize this is a definite life change

The difference between working full time and being a full time stay at home mom can be huge. At work, you have a set schedule. You know when you begin and end. As a mom, you are always on duty. At work, you may have a support staff to help you make phone calls, handle email and other errands. As a mom, you are the support staff. For some moms, just seeing the difference can be helpful.

2. Get Connected

God has created us to be in community with others, and to support one another. Galatians 6:2 tells us to Carry one another's burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Check your paper for some local moms groups, or local churches for womens bible studies. Call your local gym to see if there are any classes for new moms. Exercise is a great way to meet new people.

3. Ask for help.

One of the things I have noticed as a counselor is the freedom that comes from admitting we are struggling. Somewhere, as women we believe that to ask for any help is sign of weakness. We begin to isolate and stay to ourselves. King Solomon saw the importance of asking for help: Eccl 4:9-11 Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their efforts. For if either falls, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to lift him up. Also, if two lie down together, they can keep warm; but how can one person alone keep warm?

Find a few other people that have walked the journey of parenting that you admire. Feel free to ask them questions. There is wisdom in many. We have all heard kids dont come with manuals. All the more reason to ask other people for their advice.

4. Be open to redefine yourself.

It is okay if you feel like you are not the same person that you were before you gave birth. Parenting changes people. It tends to reshape priorities, and bring a sense of relaxation when needed. Those that are able to parent with a sense of humor seem to enjoy it more. The newborn days were a growth time for us as parents and our daughter.

5. Be Flexible

There are many books that stress the importance of getting a newborn into a schedule. I concur that babies do better when they have a routine. However, as they grow and develop their routines change. Flexibility is an essential for survival.

Making the transition from work to home can feel like a whirlwind. Being intentional about getting connected, and asking for help will help you rebuild the stability you may be seeking. Flexibility and openness will result in growth, allowing you to be a better parent.

(All Scriptures from Holman Christian Standard Bible Copyright 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 by Holman Bible Publishers.)

Terre Grable is Christian licensed professional counselor in Franklin, Tennessee. She enjoys helping couples strengthen and rebuild intimacy within thier marriage and relationships, and helping parents and teens become better friends when they feel like enemies.

http://www.terregrable.com

Home Mold Test Kits

Cabinet Hardware - A Great Way To Change The Look Of Your Cabinets

The cabinets and cupboards in your kitchen are starting to look a little old and outdated to you. However, you do not have the money or the time to totally refurbish their appearance. Not to worry, there is actually a way for you to give them a lovely new look that does not cost a lot of money. All you need to do is purchase some new cabinet hardware for them.

That is right, if you want to improve the look of your kitchen cabinets and cupboards, getting new cabinet hardware is the way to do it. There are many different options available, making it easy to find something that will nicely complement what you currently have in your space. For example, maybe your cupboards and cabinets are made from wood and are a deep, rich espresso color. Then a nice choice for livening them up would be something of the contemporary variety, like ones crafted from stainless steel that have a brushed finish. Or, maybe your cabinets and cupboards have more of an antique feel to them, a great choice for you would be something that has that same vintage vibe like ones crafted from bronze that have an oil rubbed finish.

When it comes down to it, there are just a ton of cabinet hardware styles and designs to choose from. The reason is that they are crafted from a wide variety of materials including the bronze and stainless steel ones mentioned above along with other metals, and even wood, stone, ceramic, glass and more. Plus, there are also a lot of different finishes available too and they also come in many shapes and sizes. If you want an easy way to check out all the choices, do not make the mistake of going to your local hardware store because there is an even better way to see them all. And, that way is by just logging onto the Internet and doing some online shopping.

When changing up the look of your cabinets, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind. One of those things is knowing exactly what you need because you cannot just change up the look of one hardware piece and not the others. If you do that, you will have a very mismatched look going on that is extremely tacky. So, make sure to change everything, including the knobs and hinges on your cabinets, the pulls on your drawers, and the drawer slides inside your drawers. Another thing to keep in mind is pretty simple and that is to just buy enough of each piece, and maybe a few extra in case some should break down the line. That way you do not have to worry about finding the exact same ones later on since you have them in advance.

So, if the cupboards and cabinets in your space are bumming you out a bit with their boring appearance, turn to new cabinet hardware to change up their look. With all the choices that are available, you can do it pretty easily and what is even better, is that you do not have to spend a lot of money.

Being a business owner of many indoor and outdoor home decorating sites, Jennifer Akre shares comments and reviews on cabinet hardware and invites you to learn more about kitchen hardware and drawer pulls. Enhance the spirit of your home. Shop today - Click: cabinet pulls.

Beainspector

Patio Maintenance in Fall

Ahh fall! Crisp air, beautiful colors, and -- oh no! -- winter preparation! It's true that fall brings many household maintenance tasks, but the pleasant weather makes it enjoyable to be outside, and the time spent maintaining your patios and yards will add years to their life span.

Patio maintenance is particularly important in the fall. Patios which are made of wood should be treated with a waterproofing substance to protect them from the winter weather. This is not a big project -- it can be done in an hour or two for an average sized patio. The time spent doing this will protect the wood and prevent costly repair bills in the springtime.

Moisture is the big enemy of wood, so anything that can trap moisture should be removed. This means sweeping it from time to time to get rid of the falling leaves and to remove debris from between the floorboards of the patio. This can be done with a screwdriver or other small object. Debris which remains between the floorboards holds moisture and quickly rots the foundation frame underneath.

If your patio needs a coat of paint, the fall is a good time to do it. The paint will give the wood more protection during the wintertime. Just make sure not to leave the job too late in the season -- the weather should be clear and dry on the painting day for maximum effectiveness.

If you have plants on your patio they must be prepared for winter. Perennials can be protected with sackcloth and placed in an area where they are less exposed to the elements. Annuals should be removed from their beds and in the soil can be re-fertilized.

Patio furniture should be examined and repaired if necessary, and should be stored in a protected area. Leading patio furniture outside during the winter is bad for both furniture and patio -- moisture will accumulate under the legs and stain or rot the patio floor.

Doing all this work in the fall will extend the life of your patio. In addition, there will be fewer patio jobs to be done in the springtime. All you will need to do is bring out the furniture and replant your plants.

Linda is author of: http://www.patio-furniture-ideas.com

At our site you find information about almost anything you need to know about outdoor and patio living.

Building Your House Help

How Using The Right Ladder Can Make Those Jobs Easier

Ladders come in a variety of styles and heights, and it's important to choose one that meets the needs of the task you're performing. Safety should always come first when using a ladder, so it's necessary to make sure you use the right ladder for the job. For instance, an extension ladder is suitable for reaching those high spots when decorating or cutting tree branches. But trying to reach up too high on a step ladder can be hazardous and lead to accidents. On the other hand, step ladders are ideal for those odd jobs round the house, from changing a light bulb to hanging curtains.

Extension ladders are used for all kinds of outside jobs, from professional window cleaning to painting gable ends of buildings. Aluminum ladders are commonly used, being lightweight and easily portable. However, a fiberglass ladder, although much heavier to move, is safer to use in the vicinity of electrical cables. Well-known manufacturers that sell a range of quality ladders include Werner Ladders and Wing Enterprises.

Inside the home, ladders come in handy in a number of situations. For instance, if you have high book shelves, fitting a rolling library ladder makes it quick and easy for you to reach those top shelves. Library ladders are generally made from wood, and come in a choice of colors and finishes to blend in with your dcor. Another place where a fitted ladder comes in useful is in a loft hatch. An attic access ladder makes it simple for you to utilize that extra storage space in the roof.

Whatever your requirements, from doing DIY in the home or garden, to reaching high shelves, there's a ladder to meet your needs. Choosing the right ladder for the job can help make your task much simpler.

Caroline Smith is a regular contributor to GetLadders.com - an online resource offering a range of ladders including attic ladders, the Little Giant Ladder and more.

How Using The Right Ladder Can Make Those Jobs Easier

Ladders come in a variety of styles and heights, and it's important to choose one that meets the needs of the task you're performing. Safety should always come first when using a ladder, so it's necessary to make sure you use the right ladder for the job. For instance, an extension ladder is suitable for reaching those high spots when decorating or cutting tree branches. But trying to reach up too high on a step ladder can be hazardous and lead to accidents. On the other hand, step ladders are ideal for those odd jobs round the house, from changing a light bulb to hanging curtains.

Extension ladders are used for all kinds of outside jobs, from professional window cleaning to painting gable ends of buildings. Aluminum ladders are commonly used, being lightweight and easily portable. However, a fiberglass ladder, although much heavier to move, is safer to use in the vicinity of electrical cables. Well-known manufacturers that sell a range of quality ladders include Werner Ladders and Wing Enterprises.

Inside the home, ladders come in handy in a number of situations. For instance, if you have high book shelves, fitting a rolling library ladder makes it quick and easy for you to reach those top shelves. Library ladders are generally made from wood, and come in a choice of colors and finishes to blend in with your dcor. Another place where a fitted ladder comes in useful is in a loft hatch. An attic access ladder makes it simple for you to utilize that extra storage space in the roof.

Whatever your requirements, from doing DIY in the home or garden, to reaching high shelves, there's a ladder to meet your needs. Choosing the right ladder for the job can help make your task much simpler.

Caroline Smith is a regular contributor to GetLadders.com - an online resource offering a range of ladders including attic ladders, the Little Giant Ladder and more.

Skylights

New Construction Windows

Hello, my name is John Rocco.I grew up around the window and door business. My father owned a glass shop that dealt in every aspect of residential and commercial glass.Naturally, when it came time to choose a profession, i wound up in the window and door business.I have been in the business for about 27 years, and i have been self employed for 20.

One of the things that separated my company from my competitors was my willingness to show my customers how to replace their windows themselves. Whenever i would encounter a customer with a curiosity or willingness to learn how to install their own windows,i would offer to sell them the labor on one window,using them as my helper.Then,they would install the rest of the windows using the knowledge gained from helping me install one.Most window companies would never do this because there is so much money made on the labor.But i was always so busy,i never felt like it was costing me money.

Eventually, i made an installation video for those homeowners who wanted to do their own windows.While the video is for sale on my website, i decided to take excerpts from the video and write an article once a week covering some part of the window replacement project.This article is going to cover the difference between window frames used in new construction homes, and the window frames that are used to replace existing aluminum or wood windows.

When a new home is being built,the windows are nailed to the wood studs that make up the house frame.In order to accomplish this, new construction windows have a fin around all four sides of the frame that rests against the outside of the stud and nails are driven into the studs through the nailing fin. After that,flashing paper is applied to prevent water leaks,then the exterior material is applied. That material can be stucco, brick, siding, etc.

Now,imagine 10 or 20 years later when you want to replace those windows. If you were going to install your replacement windows the same way the original windows were installed, you would have to remove the exterior material around each window in order to get to those nails holding the frame in there. You can see how this procedure could cause many problems, not to mention all the labor involved. I have seen homes in california with stucco exteriors where the homeowner had the stucco cut out in order to remove the old windows.The problem was they were unable to match the stucco colors after patching. Its just not a very efficient way to replace windows. So the replacement frame was designed.

In most parts of the country it's simply a new construction window frame with the nail fin removed. In the west, where stucco is a common home exterior,a retrofit frame was designed. If you're going to be replacing the exterior material on your home, then you might want to consider going with the new construction window since the nailing fins will be exposed anyway. Also, chances are that a contractor will be doing your exterior replacement,and it would be wise to let the contractor install the windows as well.Since my installation videos deal with window replacement only, these articles will focus on replacement frames and retrofit frames. Using these two frame styles,a do it yourselfer can replace their old windows without any damage to existing interior and exterior surfaces. And the job can be done using common tools such as a drill,tape measure, and caulking gun.

In next weeks article,we will discuss the replacement of wood sash windows.

John Rocco has been installing replacement windows since 1978

To learn more, visit http://www.vinylwindowsforless.com

Door At Stairs

How Do I Choose a Floor Plan for my New Kitchen?

When you first begin to plan remodeling your kitchen, all the things that have to be decided, chosen and purchased may overwhelm you. Where do you start? You may want to start by hiring a designer to help you through the process. This is probably your best bet because a good kitchen floor plan is more difficult to produce than it seems. But if this is out of the question because you have a fixed budget, then you will have to do the footwork yourself.

The new trend in homes today is to keep your home as open as possible. If this fits in with what you want, you may have a big project on your hands, but it can be done. If your kitchen is against a living area, an open bar area between the kitchen and living room helps open the space up while still keeping your kitchen as a separate room.

If you have a large enough space, one of the most useful additions to any kitchen is an island. It gives you more storage and counter space to work with. And as you design the floor plan for your kitchen, think about how much storage you currently need and what extra storage needs you may have in the future. This will help you decide which of the following floor plans fit your style.

Some of the larger floor plans are G-shaped, U-shaped and L-shaped. These are just what they sound like. Cabinets and appliances form these shapes in the space around the kitchen. There are also Galley kitchens, which are very popular in many homes, but their design can feel cramped as kitchen cabinets and appliances are lined up along opposite walls.

The rule of thumb when planning the layout is to keep your work triangle as small as possible while leaving as much open floor space as you can. The work triangle is the perimeter of the area connecting the most important areas of the kitchen: the oven, the refrigerator and the sink. This imaginary triangle serves to help you design your kitchen in a manner that will reduce work and make you more efficient by keeping everything just close enough to be convenient.

The work triangle should be no great than 26 feet and no less than 12 feet, with each leg measuring no longer than 9 feet and no less than 4 feet. You should not place your island or any other obstruction within the triangle.

Armed with this information, get started on your floor plan by deciding which floor plan you like and then measure your triangle to see if you are within the parameters. Take into consideration how much traffic flows through your kitchen and where the large traffic areas are. They should not fall within the work triangle.

A few other tips to remember: make sure your cabinets are at least 16 inches deep, keep at least 36 inches of continuous countertop space in the food preparation area, put your dishwasher close to your sink and make sure that any doors in cabinets, the refrigerator or other storage areas have plenty of clearance. While it may seem like a lot of rules to follow, it will make your kitchen more accessible and convenient when you use it.

Chris Brown is a regular contributor to Home Remodeling, Bathroom Remodeling and Kitchen Remodeling websites. Chris also takes pride in many of his own do-it-yourself projects around his own home.

Do It Yourself Home Help

Where To Find Cheap Marble Tile Flooring Materials Online

Marble is a trusted material for flooring and wall tiles, as it has always been so for centuries. Invigorating the beauty of one's home through utilizing marble tiles for flooring helps to create stunning front terraces and uniquely designed living rooms and foyers.

Today, there are a lot of marble floor tile designs, as well as online stores where consumers could choose designs, ask for advice, and purchase the tiles. Whatever the color, design, price or which store you buy them, marble floor tiles perfectly compliment a small home, as well as a large estate.

Popular Marble Tile Designs

Marble floor tiles these days have a wide offering of designs and color patterns. There are tiles that are available polished, tumbled or honed. Honed marble tiles are utilized to provide more floor traction, whereas polished tiles are used to provide a more elegant look, however they could become slippery when wet, necessitating the placing of bath mats to prevent accidents.

Tumbled marble, on the other hand, with its old-world feel and rustic look, is also becoming a popular design for homeowners.

How To Get Advice On Buying Good Marble Floor Tiles

With the proliferation of hundreds, or thousands of online stores selling marble flooring material, it would be best to seek advice from industry experts and long-time dealers and manufactures, in order for consumers to to get the best tile materials at the most affordable, and cost-effective prices.

Wherever you may be located, one good start in asking for reliable consultation and advice is the local chapter or the office of the Marble Institute of America (MIA), which is a nationwide industry association. The association's website helps consumers get advice on tile cleaning and care, installation guidelines, as well as finding reputable tile contractors and dealers nationwide.

The Floor Covering Installation Contractors Association, is also a good industry group that would assist homeowners regarding the rules and practices covering the aspects of floor covering. Another reputable organization would be the National Tile Contractors Association (NCTA). This organization is committed to improving the floor tile installation industry, as well as helping consumers have informed choices regarding tile flooring materials and installation options.

Tile Colors And Prices

Marble tiles are generally utilized for both interior and exterior flooring applications. Floor tile sizes usually range from 305 x 305 mm, 500 mm, to 800 mm free length. The tile finish could also differ from polished, gauged or beveled.

Natural stones, such as marble and limestone, have prices ranging from $5 to $20 per square foot, and are more preferred in higher-priced renovations. Glass tiles on the other hand, can range as much as $25 to $50 per square foot, depending on the design.

Among the different marble tile colors sold in stores are white, red, black, mottled and banded gray, pink and green. For each color noted, there may be some variations in the mixtures or texture, and these are mostly available at your neighborhood home dcor shops or in hardware stores online.

Marble Tile Flooring - http://tilenet.net

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Foundation Repair Contractors

If your house or any part of your property experiences foundation failure, it is not a job you want to correct yourself. In order to do this properly you would have to be extensively trained and have a fast knowledge on the subject. This is not your everyday fixer upper project. Chances are to get the job done right; you are going to need to hire a professional. If you are like some people, this might make you a little uneasy. After all, how many times have you heard about contractors taking advantage of their customers? Some not so ethical contractors will charge you more than the job is worth. If you are a little uneasy calling in a professional, here are some basic guidelines for what to expect from a good foundation repair contractor.

The first thing any foundation repair contractor should do is an initial investigation and then a foundation failure report to some extent. Report will explain how severe the problem is and list the proposed repairs needed. If they are going to have to pier, they much included pier spacing and foundation lines in the reports. This takes some time. It might not be a one visit evaluation. A foundation repair contractor may have to come out, do an investigation and then present you with a formal report at a later time that will detail all the work. If you find a contractor who quotes you a price right then and there, chances are they are not a good one. Also do not be surprised if you are charged a fee for the inspection and the report. Most fees range from a few hundred to almost $1000 dollars. Make sure you ask if that fee will be deducted from the final price of the job once ordered. A qualified and ethical contractor will tell you yes. If they say no...stay away from them

Once the investigation is done and a report is ready, a reliable foundation repair contractor will go through it with you and give you the quoted price. They will also explain that quote and answer any questions you may have. If you are getting quotes by a few foundation repair contractors, bear in mind that the prices should not vary much if they are all doing the same work. This is because the materials should pretty much be the same price for all foundation repairmen. One of the possible reasons for the difference of prices between contractors is the amount of experience they have. A knowledgeable, skillful and experienced contractor might cost a little more money than one who has less experience. Keep this in mind when considering the cheapest contractor. Ask questions about their experience to help ensure you are making the best decision for you, your house and your budget.

Once all the work has been done, you should be given a report that contains all the hydraulic measurements and depths regarding the piers. This report should be saved as it will come in handy if you ever decided to sell you house.

Having foundation failure fixed is a costly project, but by following these guidelines, you will be able to find a foundation repair contractor that you are confident with. Make sure they are one who take pride in their work and are not looking for the quick buck.

For the best network of Foundation Repair Specialists check out http://www.Foundation-Repair.us

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