A Quick Guide to Home Mailboxes

Everyone in the United States gets mail. This means that every one in the United States needs a mailbox. If you are in need of a mailbox, or if you just want to purchase a new mailbox for your home, you may want some information about your options for home mailboxes.

 There are two types of home mailboxes. The most common is a curbside mailbox. But some people also have a wall mounted mailbox. These can be placed directly next to your front door. They sit either vertically or horizontally.

 The most common home mailboxes used are the metal ones. These are inexpensive to purchase, however, they are prone to rusting. If you do not want a rusting problem, you can purchase one made of vinyl. The vinyl mailboxes are also less prone to fading, chipping, or cracking. But they are a bit more expensive to purchase.

 Some of the least expensive home mailboxes are the plastic ones. They are highly durable, weather proof, rust proof, and very light weight. Some are even made to be indestructible because they are made with double walled plastic.

 The last type is security mail boxes. These are vandal proof and they come with a locking mechanism. This prevents someone from stealing your mail and from damaging the mailbox. These are usually quite expensive to purchase, but sometimes needed.

 The above were some of the most common choices you have for purchasing home mailboxes. There are many options to choose from. Decide how much you want to spend and what type of mailbox best suits your needs. This way you can easily find what you are looking for and be one step closer to getting your mail!

Facts about Bathtub Surround and What it Can Do For You

Hidden away in a corner of the bathroom is a remarkable innovation that most people will never notice unless they meticulously inspect its edges.


Bathtub. Fit for luxurious baths and showers. 


Who could ever think that beneath these exquisite creations is an ingenious utilization of what would otherwise have been just another feature of a typical form inside the house.


Going into the details of the bathtub, one gets the delightful impression of making a totally unexpected, felicitous discovery. That beneath the wonderful and relaxing baths are functional devices that serve as a barricade against water seepage — bathtub surround. Without it, you could have been stomping your way out of the bathroom due to water loss.


The Hidden Concept


What most people do not know is that bathtub surround is an innovative tool to seal or lock-in water within the perimeters of the bathtub. These bathtub surrounds can be used anywhere but they simply works well with bathtubs.


These kinds of surrounds usually come in kits, where the handbook or instruction manual is included. However, this manual is best read while inside the store because there are some instructions on buying certain materials that will be needed when you are already installing the bathtub surround.


However, as good as it may sound, many people are still not aware of the benefits that they can derive from bathtub surrounds. Hence, here is a list of some of its advantages so that they will know that the next time they see bathtub surrounds, they know that they should buy one for urgent situation or certain kinds of bathtub disaster.


1. Convenience


Bathtub surrounds are not built just for the sake of building it. These kinds of surrounds are especially made to provide convenience for the bathtub users.


With bathtub surrounds, people can expect easier, more convenient way of retaining water while taking a dip.


2. Optimum water conservation


One of the best things about bathtub surrounds is that it promotes water conservation. This is because with these things present in your bathtub, you can be assured that what you get is full ration of the amount of water that you have just placed inside your tub. This means that as you progress with your bath, no amount of water is wasted that is usually brought about by leakage or seepage within the walls of the bathtub.


3. Reliable


Bathtub surrounds can actually give you many years of leakage-free soaking and bathing. With these devices, you can be assured of a hardwearing, stain-defiant, and manageable bathtub.


4. Good Impressions


Old, grimy bathtubs are absolute disgusts. They do not just make your bathroom filthy-looking but they can also promote water leakage while taking a dip.


Hence, through the use of bathtub surround, you can easily renovate your bathtub, thereby, creating a fresher and modernized look.


Best of all, bathtub surrounds somewhat conceal the imperfections brought about by the wear and tear of your old bathtub. It covers any cracks or breaks within the walls of your bathtub, which can consequently modify the overall look of your tub and your bathroom.


Indeed, bathtub surrounds can provide many uses. It goes a long way from that sleek tool to a more workable device that does not only solve common bathtub problems but can also modify and enhance the total look of your bathtub as well as your bathroom.

About Ceramic Tile Kitchen Countertops

Ceramic tiles for kitchen countertops have become a must have in home buyers' kitchens.


Whether you prefer glazed, porcelain, quarry or mosaic, these tiles are versatile and come in an array of designs, colors and shapes. A design savvy look, country flair, artistic interest or upscale appearance can enhance your kitchen countertops surface that's low maintenance but high in style. Tile countertops are also a great idea for completing your kitchen renovation since tiles are not only durable but are heat resistance.


Be creative and always design your kitchen tile layout the way you like it. One interesting way to do it is to tile your backslpash. Be sure to put colorful, unique and single designs tiles in between plain fields tiles. You can do multiples of the same design tiles or each can have a different design or color. To make your kitchen come alive, use beautiful kitchen tile with attractive colors or designs. Your kitchen tile can standout or contrast, but you always want them to blend in with what you've got going on the cabinets and the floor. You do not want to get dizzy walking into your kitchen from all the "busyness."


Murals also are a nice addition for your backsplash or you can add picture, marbles or things you collect for added interest. You do not want to get dizzy walking into your kitchen from all the "busyness."


It seems though more and more home buyers are demanding granite kitchen counter tops.


Granite provides a beauty and warmth and it is ideal for aesthetic appeal in home design. Granite and its popularity are a little pricey with prices starting at 60.00 a foot installed. Although they are very popular, solid granite countertops may not be for everyone. A homeowner may not be willing to pay the price because of limitations on resale value. In situations like these you can always go to the granite tile countertops as an alternate means. The granite tile countertops are designed from the same desirable stone as the solid granite with all the desirable elements remaining the same. Granite tile countertops can withstand putting hot pots/pans on the counter. They also serve as an excellent surface for handling dough and confectionery. Granite tile countertops have such a natural beauty that compliments almost any style cabinetry. Granite tiles are very versatile and offer a wide range of ideas and options for installations. If you are not wanting to install granite tiles all over your kitchen consider doing just your island top for a focal point and conversation piece. These will make the tiles pop against the design choices you have made in your kitchen.


Granite tiles provide a great choice for the homeowners on a budget and can easily be done as a week-end project. The practicality choice of granite tile countertops can be set into any other material including laminated counter tops or solid wood. Clever design plans allow the homeowner to present their own style and taste without great expense.


The granite countertop appeal can not be compared to any other.

Building Your Dream Home - Part 3

Exterior Framing Continues


With the home’s sub-floor down and the exterior walls framed and up, the framing crew was on to the roof. Though the roof was rather simple in structure with just a 12/12 pitch and no valleys it was a significant framing undertaking due to just the size and height of it. The house was 32 feet wide by 44 feet in length, and the exterior side walls stood 11 feet tall in the great room. This exterior wall height of 11 feet translated into a roof ridge that was 27 feet off the floor of the great room. Consequently staging was required to install the ridge pole and roof rafters. In addition, since the span from the top of the walls to the ridge was so long, heavy 2x12s were required for the roof rafters. Within a week, however, the team had completed the installation of the roof rafters and the house began to take on real shape.


I should comment briefly about the sub-floor and exterior walls before I move on.


I decided on using ¾” tongue and groove plywood for the sub-flooring rather than OSB/particle board as I was concerned that the OSB was too sensitive to moisture. I was concerned about this, both from the construction phase and from normal home use. I was concerned that during the construction phase that snow and ice could potentially lead to damage such as warping. I have seen this before when OSB was used on sub-flooring. I was also concerned that during the life of the home, that there could be water incidents, e.g. a leaking dishwasher or washer machine that also could also lead to water damage to the floor. I also believe that plywood is stronger and that it would provide for a more solid and rigid floor.


Regarding the exterior wall framing I used 2x6 construction. This is typical in New England as the additional wall depth allows for higher insulation factors; a must in colder climates.


Sheathing the Outside of the Home


In order to get plumbing and electric contractors onto a site typically they want the home “buttoned up”. This includes the roof shingled and the doors and windows on. Thus my framing crew moved onto the exterior sheathing once the walls and roof framing were complete.


As with the sub-floor, I again chose plywood for the exterior sheathing for the same reasons mentioned earlier. On the exterior walls ½” exterior grade plywood was used. On the roof 5/8” exterior grade plywood was used. I know many builders today use OSB for both the walls and roof, however, I still believe for stronger construction plywood is the way to go.


The sheathing effort took about a week to complete. During this time exterior doors and windows showed up on the site. Staging the delivery of material reduces theft and insurance risk as well as keeps a less cluttered construction site. However, as I have indicated earlier, communication is critical when you are doing “Just-in-Time” material delivery.


Installing Exterior Doors and Windows


The installation of the doors and windows was a major undertaking for this project as the lake side view of the home was literally a wall of windows; 32 feet in width and 27 feet in height. A great deal of engineering had gone into the window design so that the 10 large custom windows would fit together like a jig saw puzzle. This said, when the windows arrived on site and were inspected, it was determined that some of them were not built correctly to the dimensions specified. After much debate with the framing crew, the window vendor and me we reached a compromise on sharing the cost of fixing the windows. The window vendor took back the improperly sized windows and the framing crew began the installation of the doors and what windows they could install. Fortunately the window vendor was able to return to the site with the properly sized windows within a few days and the construction phase did not miss a beat.


Completing the Interior Framing


With the doors and windows installed, the framing crew proceeded to complete the Interior Framing. This was an exciting time, as the rooms began to take real shape. You could now walk down hallways and into bedrooms and closet areas. Within just a few days the interior walls were complete and the framing crew proceeded onto the roof for the shingling.


I should note that 2x4 construction was used on the interior walls as insulation was not required on the interior walls.


Shingling the Roof


The last task to complete before the house could be classified as “Buttoned Up” was to install the shingles on the roof. Fortunately my framing crew was also able to do this task, thus eliminating the need for yet another subcontractor.


I chose a 30 year architectural shingle due to the quality and look I was trying to achieve on the home.


Though relatively a simple roof, it was quite large and the weather was less than hospitable. Consequently it took nearly 2 weeks to complete this task. However, with the roof complete, my electric and plumbing contractors were now able to begin their work.


Also, with the main house now structurally complete, the framing crew moved onto the garage framing and construction phase. As a result of staging the garage behind the main home construction phase, I was able to have subcontractors work in parallel without getting in each others way.


Rough Electric and Plumbing


With the house “Buttoned-Up”, my Electric and Plumber subcontractors showed up to begin the roughing in phase of their respective tasks.


Rough Electric


I had met a few days before on site with the Electric subcontractor to discuss the placement of all the wall outlets and switches, as well as where the light fixtures would be situated. During our discussion he marked the wall studs for the placements of the electric wiring boxes so that we could visualize the entire electric wiring scheme. We also marked where the telephone and cable boxes would reside.


During the electrical rough in wiring phase, the electrician installed all the wiring boxes and ran wire from the boxes to where the main circuit panel box would reside.


Rough Plumbing


As with the Electrical Subcontractor, I had met several weeks earlier with the Plumbing Contractor. During this meeting we discussed the form of heat for the home, as well as where the bathrooms and kitchen were to reside in the home. We also discussed types of bathroom fixtures including tubs, sinks and toilets. Consequently, when he showed up on site he new exactly where to run main drain and supply pipes and vent stacks. He also roughed in all of the plumbing for each bathroom and kitchen plumbing fixture.


Within a week both the Electrical and Rough Plumbing contractors had completed their tasks and had successfully passed their respective inspections.

Building Your Dream Home - Part 2

Razing the Cottage


With new house plans and permits in hand, subcontractors hired and a Septic Design in process, it was now time to raze the existing cottage. I considered employing the local fire department to burn it down, however I chose the demolition route instead. Though I did not contact the Fire Department, I was convinced that this route would have led to multiple delays and pitfalls, as I would have been at the whim of several town employees and weather conditions. The demolition route required only the excavator subcontractor and had less weather related schedule risks. In addition, the demolition cost and effort was very reasonable. Within two days, it was as if the cottage never existed on the land. It is important to note, however, that the cottage was relatively small. It was 22’ x 30’. If the cottage had been significantly larger, then the Fire Department route may have made more financial sense.


The demolition effort itself basically consisted of three parts. First, all of the furniture and appliances needed to be removed. Most of these items were old and musty and were not worth saving. Next, the excavator used a large backhoe and tore apart and crushed the building into small pieces. Finally, the excavator loaded the debris into several 20 cubic yard dumpsters, which were then hauled away by a dumpster company. Finding the appropriate dumpster company was a little bit of a challenge, as there are strict regulations on the disposing of certain home construction material. In addition, the dumpster costs can dramatically increase depending on how far away their facilities are from the construction/destruction site.


Breaking Ground


After the cottage was razed, and the stakes were placed outlining the boundary of the new home, it was time to break ground. This was a very exciting time as my dream was about to begin to take shape. I was building a large contemporary home with a wall of windows facing the lake front. Admittedly it was only a hole in the ground, but this hole represented the rough footprint of my future house. Seeing the hole, I could begin to more easily visualize my future home.


Digging out the hole and preparing the site for a foundation is one of the most critical aspects of building a new home. As a result, I spent several occasions with both the Excavator and Foundation subcontractors reviewing the house plans and the site prior to, and during the excavation. It was imperative that all of us were on the same page to ensure that the foundation walls, with all its jogs and step ups/downs would be located and installed per the plans. During these meetings a few adjustments were necessary to the foundation plans, however with all the team members involved the changes were minor and absolutely necessary. The changes helped prevent more serious problems later on and ensured that the outside aesthetics of the home were maintained.


As I already indicated, the foundation is extremely important to any quality home. If the foundation is not built upon a solid footing, nor constructed of the appropriate concrete strength, the foundation walls will crack in short order. These cracks can lead to water in the basement, settling in the framing, and eventually cracks in the finished walls and ceilings. Consequently, it is imperative that the excavation site not only be properly dug out, but also backfilled with crushed stone and sand to provide for a stable base and to enable proper drainage underneath and around the home. In my case I had the excavator dig out sufficiently to enable 18” of crushed stone to be backfilled into the hole and still meet my foundation plan requirements.


Once the site was prepared for concrete, the foundation crew installed concrete footings 18” wide and 12” deep. In addition they installed several cement footings in the middle of the house footprint for lally columns. The footings represent the base of the home and support the concrete foundation walls and the home itself. Due to the fact that it was winter, Calcium Chloride was used as an accelerator to speed the curing time of the concrete. In addition water had pooled in a portion of the hole, so constant pumping was necessary during the curing time.


After a couple of days, the foundation crew installed forms for the concrete walls. A day later the foundation walls were poured. Three days later the forms were removed and the foundation walls were in. I then had my excavator subcontractor return. After tarring the outer walls, just up to the level of where the finished grade would be, he installed a perimeter drain around the foundation and then backfilled the foundation with clean sand and fill. It is important that boulders and clay not be used as backfill material. Boulders can crack the foundation walls while being pushed into place, and clay can lead to improper drainage around the home.


With the foundation in and backfilled I was ready for framers.


The Framing Stage


The framing stage is probably the most exciting part of building a home. In a relatively short period of time, literally days, a house begins to take real form. Within less than a week knee walls were up, floor joists were installed and a plywood sub-floor was down. After a couple of weeks, the first floor walls were up and ceiling joists were being installed. I was so impressed I was convinced my new home was a month ahead of schedule. Boy was I wrong.


Before I elaborate on my misconception I should jump back for a minute. While the excavation work went on, I was also engaged with the Framing subcontractor. The Framing subcontractor needed to order framing material including lumber, doors and windows, shingles and siding. Inevitably there were issues with the availability of material and delivery dates, and as a result, we spent a fair amount of time resolving these issues. Fortunately, due to constant communication and quick problem solving we were able to have the initial delivery of lumber arrive on the site within a day after the backfilling of the foundation.


It is important to note, that it is at this time of the project that the large outlays of money begin to occur. Lumber costs for a home construction are quite large, and final payments are due to the Excavator and Foundation subcontractors. Excavation/Sitework and Foundation installations are a significant portion of the cost of building a home. In addition, the Framing subcontractor requires a portion of his labor to be paid in advance.


Also, it is very important that Homeowner Construction Insurance be obtained prior to the construction phase. This insurance protects the Homeowner/Builder against material theft and job injuries. All of your subcontractors and their employees should be insured but don’t count on it. During any building project, subcontractors are bound to hire extra help for short stints and I would be surprised if these temporary employees were added to the subcontractor’s insurance policy. The homeowner/builder insurance policy is small change compared to the risk of theft or the threat of injury lawsuits.


As I indicated earlier, I was in for a surprise with the framing phase of my home. As mentioned, the initial framing moved quickly. However it was still winter and frequent snow storms and extremely cold weather began to hit. This dramatically slowed progress. In addition, with the fresh supply of snow it quickly became apparent that my framing crew had an affinity to snowmobiling. So even on the sunny days my framing crew was frequently absent. No matter my level of complaining or prodding I was unable to control my framing subcontractor’s work ethic.


Consequently, I had to contact my plumbing, electric, and fireplace subcontractors to inform them of the delay. This was extremely painful to have to do, as I had no definitive date on when I would actually need them and each of them had very full calendars. As a result, to be able to call them at the last minute and expect for them to drop what they were doing to come to work on my project was highly unlikely. Again, through regular communication with these other subcontractors I was able to mitigate some of this problem, however my project did experience significant schedule slips due to my framing crews shenanigans.


In retrospect, I am not sure what I could have done to have prevented this problem. Reference checks on the Framing subcontractor had been positive. I guess I should have asked what his hobbies were and made sure they did not correspond to the season I wanted the work done. It is also a fact that unexpected things do happen on any project and one should expect it and plan accordingly. For example, put some contingency dollars and schedule into your project for events such as mine. Also, I can not stress enough to establish a rapport and regular communication channel with all of your subcontractors. Do not assume anything during a project of this size.


To Be Continued ….


In Part 3 of “Building Your Dream House”, the Framing continues and Rough Electric and Plumbing begin. Stay tuned……………


For more help on building a new home, see HomeAdditionPlus.com's New Home Construction Bid sheet. The New Home Construction Bid Sheet will help ensure that your new home construction project goes smoothly and is completed on time and budget.

Building Your Dream Home - Part 1

For most of my adult life I had thought about someday building my Dream Home. Several years ago I finally got the chance. I had purchased a lake front lot with a small cottage on it. My initial intention was to use the property “as is”, and someday raze the old cottage and build a new home in its place. After a couple of weekends in the musty old camp I came to the conclusion that I needed to speed up my timetable.


Part of the dream in building my own home was to act as the General Contractor and to personally supply a great deal of sweat equity. I accomplished both of these goals, however it was not easy. There were many roadblocks and bends in the road along the way. In the subsequent parts of this chronology, I will review my experiences in hopes that others may gain from my experiences.


Determining the Home Style and Size


After making the decision to raze the cottage and build a new home, I had to first determine what type and size of home to build. My lot was limited in size and required careful planning to ensure that I would meet all of the setbacks governed by the town I lived in. Although I had these concerns, I decided to forgo the Architect route. I deemed it too expensive and probably not necessary for the style of home I wanted to build. Instead I picked up a handful of Home Plan magazines and surfed the internet for home designs. I also picked up an inexpensive software package for designing homes and floorplans. After a week of reviewing home plans, I found one that met most of my requirements in terms of a floorplan. The footprint was smaller than I wanted, but I concluded that I could redraw the floor plan accordingly using my newly purchased Home Design Software Package.


The Home Design Software package was not as simple to use as the instruction manual implied, however after a couple of weeks I had a floorplan with all the dimensional information.


Assuming the role as the General Contractor


As I had indicated earlier, one of my goals was to assume the role as General Contractor on this project. I quickly learned that banks frown upon lending construction mortgages to everyday homeowners and to folks who have little professional building experience. I got around this issue by deciding not to use the banks for financing. However, from what I learned later, it may have been possible for me to assume a construction mortgage if I had quit my day job and applied for the loan as a “full time General Contractor”. Indeed, I would have needed to complete a full proposal to the bank with all costs and subcontractors identified, but this is necessary anyways.


As the General Contractor I developed a build schedule and task list. Some of the top items included: Identifying subcontractors, pulling permits, and having a septic design approved.


Carefully Pick your Sub-Contractors


Identifying the right subcontractors is the most important task a General Contractor performs. Poor selection of subcontractors can lead to delays in schedules, cost overruns, poor workmanship and strife between the various subcontractors on the job. Prior to hiring subcontractors, it is important to visit their current jobsites. Review their work on existing jobsites and mingle with the other subs to judge the working relationship. In addition get two or three reference checks on the subcontractors. If there are poor workmanship, personality issues, or references move on. Do not settle for second rate subs, even if it means slipping your schedule or costs goals, as you will more than likely suffer even larger schedule slips or higher costs by hiring the wrong people.


Pulling Permits


Once you have selected and hired your excavator, chief framer, and foundation company, review with them your plans. Make sure you walk the site with them, and carefully stake out the house footprint, paying careful attention to lot setbacks, septic tanks, leach fields and well location. Once all are agreed upon with the house plans and the location of the home, contact the building inspector and review with him/her your plans. You will need to submit a very thorough package to the building inspector prior to getting approval. There are frequently town and state forms that need to be filled out regarding wetlands, and home thermal analysis. In addition, detailed engineering drawings of the proposed home may be required. In my case the Framer was able to assist in developing additional sketches of the house plan to ensure structural compliance to local, state and federal building codes. If I had used the initial home plans I had obtained, those would have been sufficient. I also could have contacted an architect with my selected plans to provide additional details, however it was not necessary in my case.


After about a week and several hundred dollars later I had the permit to build a new home.


Septic Design


My home required its own septic system on site. As a result, I required a septic design and an associated permit for the new home. I recommend pursuing this as early as possible in any new home project as this can take up to 2-3 months to complete as both town and state approvals are required, not to mention site and engineering work.


Without knowing exactly where the septic system and tank will reside, it may be difficult to locate the exact position of the home and in many cases the building inspector may not approve the building permit until the septic design permit has been obtained. I was fortunate in that the property already had a small septic system on the lot, so the building inspector gave me approval. I was at financial risk, however, in the event the new septic design was not approved or needed to be repositioned from the proposed location. Fortunately that was not the case and I was able to move forward on razing the cottage and beginning site work.


To Be Continued ....


In Part 2 of “Building Your Dream House”, I will cover razing an existing building, performing site prep work, and pouring foundation walls. Stay tuned……………


For more help on building a new home, see HomeAdditionPlus.com's New Home Construction Bid sheet. The New Home Construction Bid Sheet will help ensure that your new home construction project goes smoothly and is completed on time and budget.

Carpet Or Tile?

Keeping a home clean can at times be a major challenge. There is the dust to clean, furniture to clean, and the floor to vacuum. All of this can add up to hours of wasted time. But what if you could trim the time you spent cleaning your home by up to half? Think that notion is a bit farfetched? With tile flooring, it’s not. Many homeowners are quickly discovering that tile flooring is the ideal alternative to carpet floors. Tile, unlike carpet, doesn’t cling to hair, dirt, and other deposits left by family members or guests. This can make maintenance a breeze and provide you with plenty piece of mind, considering that you won’t have to worry about people coming in and out with shoes in your home. Below we will be exploring some of the additional perks tile flooring has to offer over carpet flooring. 


Allergies can be a troublesome problem when one has a carpeted home. Pollutants including pollen and dust make home in carpet fibers, where they can begin to wreak havoc on your allergies. Tile doesn’t bond to pollutants like carpet does. This, in return can keep your allergies from acting up. 


By going the tile route, homeowners can save a significant amount of money. Although tile might initially cost more, it will save you a significant amount of money in the long run. Tile, unlike carpeting, doesn’t require constant vacuuming or steam cleaning. On a further note, tile doesn’t need to be replaced every several years. It can last forever given that it’s properly maintained.


Although tile does have a large number of perks, it does have its disadvantages. For one, family members might be uncomfortable walking barefoot over the cold surface. This can be remedied by having a tile heating system installed. Tile also has a tendency to make stains more apparent. Thus, whenever you encounter a fresh stain, be sure to quickly clean it.


Tile is a very ideal alternative to carpet flooring. In terms of maintenance, health, and finances, tile couldn’t make any more sense.

Find The Right Size Room Air Conditioner

We're not talking about the weight of the air conditioner here, but tons of cooling.  Evaporative air coolers, or swamp coolers used for spot cooling as personal air conditioners.  Measure the airflow over the air conditioner's cooling coils.  Portable air conditioners are ideal for cooling down small rooms such a small livingroom or a bedroom.  A portable air conditioner is very good to provide supplemental cooling.  The central air conditioner will be more advantageous for large rooms and in cases where whole houses or apartments needs cooling.  Our portable air conditioners are a versatile and economical solution to your cooling problems.  Portatemp.com is a manufacturer and vendor of portable air conditioners and temporary cooling units.


  Our experience and product line provide the best resource anywhere for portable air conditioners and all of your temporary cooling needs.  Early applications for the liquid-desiccant air conditioner will be as a thermally activated cooling system for processing ventilation air in humid climates.  A new central air conditioner is not very expensive and can save you hundreds of dollars each year on cooling costs.  The values are based on a central air conditioner with a 36,000 Btu/hour capacity and national averages for cooling loads and electricity prices.  Ensure your air conditioner is the correct capacity for the size room it is cooling.    


   To replace or service auto or car air conditioning, look to iCARumba.com to find relevant air conditioner info.  Generally speaking Generally speaking a portable air conditioner will be a good supplement to central air conditioning in places mentioned right above.  FRIEDRICH Air Conditioning does not make covers for air conditioners because of the mold and mildew problem.  Spot coolers, portable air conditioners, mobile air conditioning equipment, & portable evaporative coolers.  There are a couple of common measurements that can tell you a lot about an air conditioner's cooling capacity and energy usage.  An oversized air conditioner is actually less effective than a correctly sized unit, and wastes energy at the same time.  Remember - using a properly-sized air conditioner will provide better comfort and use less energy than one that's too big or small.


  This chart from Energy Star can help you find the right size room air conditioner to meet your needs.  ENERGY STAR qualified central air conditioners have a higher seasonal efficiency rating (SEER) than standard models, which makes them about 25% more efficient.  Department of Energy to block it from scaling back an increase in minimum air conditioner energy-efficiency standards.  All of the models listed in the link above meet, and in most cases exceed, the ENERGY STAR requirements for room air conditioners.  The waythat central air conditioners are rated is according to theirseasonal energy efficient ratio (SEER).  In order to be ENERGY STAR qualified, room air conditioners must exceed federal efficiency standards by ten percent or more.  Oversized units decrease the efficiency of your air conditioner and waste energy by cooling the room quickly but not removing enough humidity.


  The guideline addresses issues such as energy efficiency and air conditioner noise in a clear and concise manner.  The energy cost savings realized over the lifetime of an energy-efficient central air conditioner can offset the initial cost of the product.  ENERGY STAR central air conditioners use about 20% less energy each year than a standard air conditioner.  Recent studies show that the average central air conditioner will consume two times the energy required to adequately cool your home.  


  Designed for ease of use, this little air conditioner utilizes frozen water to create a personal climate-control system anyone can use.  Please have a sales representative help you purchase a room air conditioner or central air conditioning system that meets your needs.  Further a portable airconditioner can be acquired for substantially less money than a central system.  The laws governing CFC's now do not allow your air conditioner contractor to add Freon to a leaky system.  If your home already has the ductwork for a home heating system, then adding a new central air conditioner is easy.  The new central air conditioner will use the same ductwork as a forced-air heating system or radiant heating system.


  If you are replacing your central air conditioner, tell your contractor what you liked and did not like about the old system.  When the air conditioner is coupled with a duct system that meets Manual D criteria, the proper flow is achieved.  One advantage of split system air conditioners is they are usually very quiet.  Let's take a look at three topics: air conditioner efficiency, selecting the right size air conditioner and buying a new system.  If you have a central air conditioner, your system cools and dehumidifies the defined space.  


  Since air conditioners use a lot of electricity, their efficiency became a public issue.  Filter maintenance alone will increase your air conditioner's efficiency, but to get the most from your unit, a thorough cleaning is required.  Professional Maintenance All air conditioners and heat pumps require regular maintenance to perform at peak efficiency.  Change the air conditioner's filters regularly Dirty filters restrict air flow, reduce efficiency and worst case, can cause the evaporator to ice up.  An oversized air conditioner costs more to buy and cycles on and off more frequently, reducing its efficiency.  The efficiency of the typical air conditioner increases the longer it runs.  Sharpa's air conditioners not only exceed federal efficiency standards, they exceed design standards as well.  Their air conditioners not only exceed federal efficiency standards, they also exceed design standards as well.  


  You can see that metal make it possible for an air conditioner to cool (or to heat) the air.  The heating capacity of a reverse cycle air conditioner is the heat that can be put into a room.  If you plan to use the air conditioner in a kitchen, allow for the extra heat generated by the oven and other appliances.  In rooms with a high local heat dissipation the portable air conditioner is more efficient than a central air conditioner.  The same idea holds true for your air conditioner or heat pump.  If you don't service your air conditioner or heat pump regularly, you'll find yourself uncomfortable and broke.  In this article the term air conditioner will apply to a heat pump or a standard air conditioner.  Just setting the dial below room temperature will not activate the air conditioner if it is set in the heat mode.  http://www.air-compressor-part.com/air-conditioner-filter/

5 Reasons Why You Should Consider Bamboo Hardwood Flooring

Choosing hardwood flooring over other options such as laminate, linoleum or carpet is no small decision.


Now that you have chosen to go with hardwood, you need to decide what type of hardwood you would like to have in your home. 


Typically, most people think of oak, maple or cherry hardwood first. But wait, consider bamboo flooring. You will be taking advantage of one of the best hardwood flooring choices available today. Bamboo has a lot to offer. 


Let’s look at these five main reasons why bamboo flooring mat be your best choice. 


Warm Environment :
 Bamboo flooring provides a warm finish because of the natural grains and growth patterns that occur in the boards. While many traditional hardwood choices do give you a beautiful floor, but it is one that also looks like it should be in a gymnasium or an auditorium. Bamboo flooring allows you to create a stunning flooring finish that exudes warmth and comfort. 


Strength and Durability :
 Bamboo is the perfect choice for a highly durable, strong floor that can stand up to the use and abuse that animals and children can deliver. It can even resist the drop of a pan in the kitchen as well as high traffic areas such as living rooms and hallways. 


Environmentally Responsible :
 Bamboo flooring is the most environmentally responsible choice for hardwood, because it is not a wood at all. It is actually a grass that can reach its full maturity in only five years. When the bamboo plant is harvested, it sends out runners spawning new plants all around them. Because bamboo is a renewable resource, you are making an environmentally responsible choice.


Color & Style :
 The natural color of bamboo is a natural blond color that shows the grains of the wood and the natural growth pattern that provides a warm color that matches every décor. The other color option is achieved in a smoking process that carbonizes the grains in the wood, resulting in a rich amber color, which is a stunning, darker variation.


Cutting Edge :
 Bamboo flooring is the newest most exciting floor choice to hit the market in recent years. Your bamboo floor will most likely be the only one of its kind on your block, making it a cutting edge style that will provide your home with a beautiful, unique flavor all its own.

10 Easy Tips To Refresh Your Space For Spring And Summer

It's the time of the season, friends!


1.Time to paint those bland winter walls! Neutral tones are just fine, but add in some of the cool blues and greens that are making a statement this Spring. Pastels and Ultra Brights are the spring and summer trend for this year.


2. Clear the clutter! Time for spring cleaning. Get to those scary spots (under the bed, closets, storage) and throw away all that old junk that you don't need. A good philosophy to follow is 'The things you truly need will come to you'. This will reassure you when you come across that shoebox of old trinkets that you would probably be too embarrassed to put on display anyway.


3. Splurge on some new artwork. Whether it's a light hearted oil painting, a sleek sculpture, or a Monet piece you've been eyeing for a year, reinvent your space!


4. New accessories! Reframe your photos with more interesting casings. The heavy woods and metals are out for the spring. Change up that china vase, try blown glass, recycled glass cobalt, or topaz! There are a variety of colors and shapes to choose from. Throw pillows can bring any color into your room or out of your artwork.


5. Change your window treatments. Lighter fabrics such as satin, chiffon, hand painted or dyed silks, are all in this spring. The colors are zesty and the look is fresh!


6. New rugs can change the entire look of your space! Move away from the heavy traditional patterns and textures and look for stripes, polka dots, and Kandinsky-esque styles.


7. Love your furniture but looking for a change? Slipcovers are still the way to go! Solids are always safe, but if you want to branch out, a lot of the light colored damasks are coming back in. Again, if you want to be trendy, go with greens and blues--light to bright colors. If you know your taste, then just be creative with it!


8. If you can manage to swing it, change out a few of your side tables with lighter colored woods or glass tops. If not, cover up the winter table tops with some light colored scarves or placemats. Work with what you've got, it brings out your most creative self!


9. Change your dishware for the season! Use fun, bright colors and chic designs on pottery or glass. Tangerines, ocean tones, hot pinks and purples! Check out Issac Mizrahi's line.


10. If nothing else, open up your space and add a splash of color with fresh flowers. They are at their best now and the colors are the inspiration for modern color trends. House plants and foliage of any kind (even if it's faux) are a must in your spring space!


So there you have it! Spring-summer 2006 is the time for reinventing and refreshing! Use your invigorated senses to inspire your dwellings. Happy Summer!

10 Easy Steps To An Organized Home Office

Without the structure of an office outside of our homes, it is easy to scatter anything work related all over the house. We still need to complete our work in a timely and efficient manner. After all, the less time we spend working, the more time we have with our family. An organized home office will make for a faster and more pleasant workday. Here are a few ideas to get you and your home office organized.


1) Do you have a home office? You don’t necessarily need an entire room, but you should have a well-defined space to contain all your office essentials and files.


A desk in your bedroom that will hold your files, paper, pens, calculator and of course computer will do fine, especially in the beginning.


If your “office” consists of the dining room table, some of the drawers in your kitchen, a file cabinet in the basement and the computer in the bedroom, you may want to think about organizing everything in one spot. 


Are you spending a lot of time searching for a particular document, running from room to room to find it? Consider moving all your files and papers to one central location, preferably close to the computer if that’s where you are doing the bulk of your work.


2) Keep your personal files and papers separate from your business things.


You will eventually have enough paperwork to deal with without having your personal bills, magazines and the kids’ after-school schedule mixed in there. Create a separate spot for those somewhere outside of your home office space.


3) Create a file system that works for you. Remember, you may be working for someone else, but when it comes to your home office, you are your own boss.


Think about how you look for a particular file or piece of paper. What will be the easiest way for you to find it? Then create a file system that works for you. Don’t worry, if you don’t get it right the first time, you can always resort and try again. Sooner or later you will come up with a system that is “just right” for you.


4) Take a good look at your work area. Do you have piles of papers, files, mail, floppy discs and CDs lying around? Do you notice anything else piling up? Set aside a few hours and put everything away. Use your new file system and find “homes” for anything else.


5) Now that you have your office organized, set aside a few minutes at the end of your workday to keep it that way. Try to “leave work” for the day with a clean, empty desk. You will appreciate it the next morning. This will also prevent you from ever coming across a huge pile of papers again.


6) Add a personal touch to your office. Bring in some pictures of the kids; add some pretty plants, inspirational quotes, or anything else you can think of that will make your office a pleasant place to work in. In addition to getting and keeping you in a good mood whenever you step in your office, you are more likely to keep it clean and organized if it is a place you treasure. So splurge a little on some special office décor.


7) Let’s talk about the files on your computer. You can waist just as much time searching for an online document as for a piece of paper. If your computer is used for work as well as for personal use, create a work folder and use subfolders for particular employers, projects etc. 


Again, come up with a file system that works for you and keep your work files separate from your personal files. This is particularly important if other family members access the computer as well. If that’s the case, and you are using Windows XP, I strongly recommend setting up a separate user account just for work and password protecting it. This will prevent other family members from accidentally changing or deleting your work files.


8) In addition to your regular files, you also want to keep your emails organized. Let’s be honest, we have all wasted time searching for a particular email that contained some vital information we needed fast. Setting up folders for different clients and projects has worked well for me, but again find a system that works for you and stick with it. Sort the email as soon as you read it. It only takes a second or two to drop it in the appropriate folder, but will save you a lot of time if you have to find it later.


9) Now that you have a good filing system (both physical and digital) in place, set aside a little time every few months (or weeks if appropriate) to purge your files. We can quickly accumulate a lot of documents both in our file cabinet and on our hard drive that we no longer need. At the very least, try to purge your files twice a year.


10) Now that your office is organized, you may also want to take a look at organizing your time. Again, come up with a system that works well for you.


I encourage you to start with a few of these ideas to get your office and yourself more organized. You will be surprised by how much time you will save not searching for files, papers or the stapler. Before long, you won’t know how you ever functioned without an organized home office.