Lighting Tips for Your Bathroom Remodel

No bathroom remodeling design is complete without a plan for improved lighting. Lighting serves many functions in the bathroom, from highlighting the decor to helping you accomplish your daily grooming and hygiene routine to complementing your reflection in the vanity mirror. By installing the appropriate lighting in your bathroom, you can both make the space feel larger and create place for personal retreat.
Here’s a look at the types of lighting you should include in your bathroom remodeling plans:
Task Lighting
Task lighting in a bathroom is one of the most important types of light to include in your bathroom remodel, as it gives you the necessary illumination for applying makeup, shaving, showering and performing other essential tasks.
When designing your task lighting, pay extra attention to the illumination around your bathroom vanity, which is essential for grooming and applying makeup properly. A common mistake homeowners make is placing a single light directly over the mirror, which casts misleading shadows on your face. If possible, surround the mirror with vanity lights or add sconces on either side of the mirror to create more even lighting on your face.
For additional task lighting, place a waterproof, recessed light above the shower or tub.
Ambient Lighting
Ambient lighting is a stand-in for natural light, enhancing the mood or atmosphere of a bathroom. If you’re fortunate enough to have a window or skylight in your bathroom, take advantage of the natural light as much as possible by removing blinds or curtains and using a thin shade or frosted glass instead. If your bathroom lacks natural light, you can simulate it with a lamp or chandelier on the ceiling. You can also create a soft glow by concealing, rope lights around the perimeter of the room behind molding that sits up to six inches below the ceiling.
Accent Lighting
Accent lighting is typically used to illuminate an aspect of your bathroom you want to highlight, such as artwork, a unique tile arrangement, a beautiful tub or an interesting sink. To create accent lighting, add a recessed spotlight with a beam aimed at the element you want to highlight.
Other Bathroom Remodel Ideas
Once you’ve designed your bathroom lighting scheme, make it work in harmony with the rest of your decor by using color and decorative elements to enhance the lights. A large mirror above the sink will reflect your bathroom’s light and make the space appear larger. For a small bathroom remodeling project, artistically arrange a collection of smaller mirrors. Adding a soft, light color to the walls and floors will also help reflect your bathroom’s light. You can also include a light-colored rug.
Finally, attach your different lighting elements to various dimmer switches to give you total control over your bathroom’s ambience. This will not only help you create whatever mood you desire, but it can help you save energy and lower your utility bill.
Although bathroom lighting is often neglected, good lighting is essential to any functional bathroom. As you begin plans for your bathroom remodeling project, make sure you include the one element that will help make the space look its best — and make you look fabulous.
~Flora Richards-Gustafson, 2010…

Dare to Repair: Can You Handle Your Water Leak Repairs After Reading This?

Want to learn how to handle water leak repairs without calling a plumbing service, or just want to put your new Apollo Precision Tools to good use for small home repairs needed around the house when your husband handyman isn’t around? If you’re interested in putting your ladies’ tool set to good use, then pick up a copy of Dare to Repair : A Do-it-Herself Guide to Fixing (Almost) Anything in the Home.

Written by two CIA wives who’ve had to make do and learn household repairs while their husbands were away on business, this book is an excellent reference to handling small home projects by yourself or with a homegirl.

Give Me the Specs: How is Dare to Repair Organized?

Dare to Repair is approximately 246 pages of content (the index starts on page 247) broken down into several chapters, as follows: Plumbing, Electricity, Major Appliances, Windows, Walls and Doors and Home Safety. Each chapter discusses the most common home repairs you may need to handle in your home, or learn about through a friend’s experience in their own residence.

Repair Name: Each repair is a subsection within the chapters, sans fancy names that confuse you. In other words, you know what the name of the project is or aims to accomplish, because it is clearly labeled at the top of the page on which the project begins.

General Introduction & Story: Small paragraphs about the authors’ experiences with the home project help ease you into getting the gist of what the project will entail.

Introductory Information: Articulate information about the repair and how it will help improve the quality of life (comfort level) of your home are provided as you transition into getting down to the nitty gritty of getting the job done accurately.

Directions & Illustrations: The directions are written in second-person format with basic illustrations to assist you in identifying key tasks. The narrative guides you through each step so that you don’t get lost, and the pictures include captions that allow you to understand the step(s) it references.

Tools Needed: Usually on the second page under the directions, you’ll see a small, approximately inch-long section that’s sectioned off. This section of the tutorial tells you what tools you’ll need – and includes a nifty illustration of the tool as well.

Sidebar Tips: Several tutorials have sidebars which provide an extra helpful tip that can help you get the job done more efficiently.A�

Who Should Dare to Repair?

Dare to Repair is a great book for any woman equipped with the right combination of spunk, guts and wit to take on almost anything that needs to be fixed in her home. This book makes a great gift and cute pick-me-up for the independent lady in your life.…

Kitchen Cabinet Ideas – Important Ways to Implement Organization to Your Cupboards

There are lots of kitchen cabinets ideas that you can find these days if you want to use it to organize your kitchen. In fact, the ways to organize your kitchen can even reach a hundred and the key is to select a style that could help you save money and time. First idea you can implement is to put labels so that you could keep everyone in the family well informed of where everything should be going. For example, the snack cabinet should be labeled so that the children would know where they would get their food.
Some plastic tubs can also be used to make the organization a lot simpler. These tubs are used to segregate various types of food and kitchen stuff. You can store some cereals, chips, and candies in the tubs. You can also place some cooking utensils in the tubs and other baking supplies. Make sure too that the tubs are clear so that you can easily see what you are trying to find.
Another effective kitchen cabinet idea is to organize your cabinets also by items. You can place cans, boxes, and bags in each shelf and cabinet. Some families even draw a map so that you would know for sure what each cabinet has. You can even place your listing right inside the cabinet or maybe in the cabinet doors. You also have the option to place the listing in your refrigerator to serve as a guide for every member of the household.…

Easy & Creative Kitchen Remodeling Ideas

When given the chance to remodel an area of one’s house, the kitchen is usually the first one that is chosen because it is where a lot of the family spends quite a few hours of their day. All of their meals are here, homework is done at the kitchen table, the preparations for meals are done here, and meetings are held here with various people from kids to traveling in-laws.
Aside from the living or dining room, this place is the most used room in the house. So, to have it remodeled is a great idea, especially if the house is more than 10 years old, the kitchen will definitely need updating, because of all the new energy saving ovens, stoves, refrigerators, dishwashers, and microwaves that are now available. If one is planning to sell their home soon, remodeling the kitchen would add value to the house and add to the functionality of the kitchen.
Most people like to update their kitchen cabinetry at least once a decade. This gives them the chance to keep their kitchen in style because styles do not change that rapidly in home decor and it can be expensive. The first thing to consider when updating the cabinetry is the quality of the cabinets. It would not do to have cabinets that got wet one time and the facing began to peel off of it.
So, ask for the cabinets that can endure a lot of water and liquids, because there will be spills and they will not just be the typical glass of water. There will be soda pop, juice, milk, and a variety of other liquids spilt on the cabinets that could possibly strip away its beauty. A good question to ask the sales associate in the store before buying any cabinets is: Will these cabinets be stripped if lemon juice, vinegar or soup is split on it? If the answer is yes, try to pick something else.
Another quality consideration is the temperature of your kitchen. How hot does it usually get when cooking? Does the oven turn into a melting point that causes everything, including you to sweat? If so, consider the damage that could do to your new cabinets. Would you really want to have to replace them in a year or so because they are so warped from the heat that you cannot open them? Ask the sales associate what temperature heat the cabinets can withstand before they warp or are damaged.
When remodeling, one needs to consider the option of having custom cabinets made versus buying cabinets off of the showroom floor. Sure, the custom cabinets will look amazing in the kitchen and should be made of materials that are strong enough to handle the abuse of your kitchen, but will the debt of those custom cabinets be paid off before you are ready to renovate the kitchen again? With standard cabinets, you can afford to buy them and install them without breaking the bank. So, keep your budget in mind when shopping around for new cabinets.…

When the Use Of Security Fence Panels Makes Sense

When the Use Of Security Fence Panels Makes Sense

Security fences are used for a number of different purposes that include crowd control, security on job sites, and enclosing restricted areas. Security fence panels may offer far more diversity and variety than is found with standard security systems.

An increasing number of different types and variety of materials are being used to construct security fence panels. Panels can be made of glass, vinyl, wood in addition to the traditional chain link and wire. Because of the ease with which theses materials can be handled, they may be suitable for use in different situations. A glass fence may be needed when objects or areas are too secured, but at the same they should be fully displayed, and not obscured from public view. This can be the case with valuable objects in art exhibits or museums.

Because the materials are easier to handle, security fence panels can also be used to enhance the visual appeal of the surroundings. With some creativity, they can easily be placed in positions that emphasize one area, while obscuring others. On separate occasions, different levels of security may be needed, or some areas may need to be isolated from others. Secure areas can quickly be formed by combining the required amount of security fence panels into the desired formation.

Another common use for security fence panels is on construction sites. These fences are usually more stable, and can consist of metal panels that are welded on to steel frames that are then interlocked. The advantage of using the types of fences is that they can be constructed to be robust and rugged, while the choice of materials used can also provide some visual appeal. They can be easily installed as a free system, when anchored in loose ground surfaces, or secured on asphalt or concrete. The addition of gates, to allow access to vehicles or personnel can add more function to the panels when assembled as part of security system part.

The security fence panels used in high security areas are usually made of wire mesh and topped with razor or barbed wire. This system can provide good visibility, as total observations of the nearby surroundings are needed while at the same time, they may not detract and can even provide a visually pleasing appearance.

An increasing amount of emphasis is growing on the functions of the function of the fence, as well as the visual concerns. Panels are being designed to perform specific functions. Some panels are made with materials that are designed to deter climbers, while others are even resistant to cutters.

A recent innovation that appears to increasing in popularity in the United Kingdom is the welded mesh panel. They have been used in Europe for some time and the growing popularity appears to come from the perception that they improve security and reduce the occurrence of vandalism.

Another increasingly popular option is the expanded metal fence which is form when panels are combined as one continuous unit. The expanded metal panels provide all components of a higher degree of security, while being resistant to vandals. They can also be used to obscure visibility when needed.…

Calling a Plumber Or DIY?

Plumbing problems are common and can be difficult to diagnose. A Plumber in Columbus can use their training and experience to quickly identify the source of the problem and suggest a solution. A plumber also has a higher level of customer service and will follow up to make sure the problem does not recur. DIY plumbing projects are not recommended because you may not be following safety guidelines and could end up injuring yourself.

A leaking pipe is an easy DIY project. It may be possible to fix it yourself with some simple tools. You may even be able to tighten a screw or put a patch on it, but if you are not familiar with plumbing, a simple mistake can result in a broken pipe or an open drain. In these cases, calling a plumber is the best option. If you can’t do the work yourself, you’ll end up wasting valuable time and money.

A plumber is the best option when a plumbing emergency arises. A plumbing emergency is no fun and can ruin your day. You may notice a high water bill, a rotten egg smell, and fluctuations in the pressure of your water. In addition, a professional plumber will have the right tools and equipment for the job. Additionally, they have the proper technical training and experience to handle more complicated problems.

The most common plumbing emergency is a burst pipe. A bursting pipe can be dangerous and costly, but with the proper tools, you can fix it yourself. WD-40 or duct tape can fix a number of small home maintenance issues. You don’t have to have the experience to make repairs if you have a simple knowledge of plumbing. You don’t have to be a master plumber to have a beautiful house, so don’t be intimidated by the job.

While DIY plumbing projects can be done by homeowners, some plumbing problems are more complex than a DYI project. For example, a frozen or burst pipe can lead to no water, and a clogged toilet can cause a flood. If a clog is causing a water main problem, it’s better to call a plumber than to take a chance on a DIY project.

Some plumbing problems are simple, while others require expert skills and expertise. In addition to a DYI plumbing project, a plumber in Columbus will be able to diagnose the problem and provide an estimate for the cost. If you’re a DYI plumber, you’ll also be able to save time and money by not wasting your valuable time. If you’re not a plumbing expert, hire a licensed professional.

While you can do plumbing repairs yourself, it is best to leave major projects to a professional. A plumber will handle larger projects and can save you money. A DYI project can be a huge inconvenience, but if it is a big problem, you’ll need a professional. The cost of a plumber’s labor may be too expensive for your budget. A DYI plumbing project can be completed by an amateur, but a professional can do it yourself with proper training.

Although some plumbing problems can be easily fixed with DIY skills, others may require professional assistance. DIY plumbing projects, such as a leaking faucet, may involve a large amount of damage that needs to be repaired. However, a plumber’s skill and experience can help you avoid costly mistakes and save valuable time. If you are a novice at DIY, a DYI project might not be worth the effort.

While no water and slow drains are extreme plumbing problems, they are common in our homes and need a professional’s expertise. A DYI project may not be an option if you’re not sure about the issue. When in doubt, call a professional. A professional can diagnose the problem and give you a time estimate. When the water pressure is too high, it can damage the pipes.

While many homeowners are savvy when it comes to DIY home repairs, they must admit that there are times when they need to call in a professional. In these cases, the task is too big and requires too many skills to perform correctly. If you’re unsure of the steps, it’s best to hire a plumber in Columbus. You’ll save money and feel more confident when you know you can fix a particular plumbing issue on your own.…

Important Pointers in Home Remodeling

Important Pointers in Home Remodeling

The feel of a new house is exhilarating. But it is not every day that you get to buy a new house. So, the only option that you have to give your house such a kind of feel is by remodeling it. But, you don’t just remodel readily, there are a few things that are important for you to keep in mind before, during and after the home remodeling task.

Before

Before you start, it always pays off if you can plan elaborately what you want to happen to your house. Don’t think that planning will only be time-consuming as in the end, you will be able to save time and effort when you have planned early on.

Researching will help give depth to the plans that you will be making. You can do your research online, in design books or in magazines. You do not just copy what you see in the pictures but you also should try to understand the connection between the different elements of design so that you can create impressive house design plans.

After planning, the next thing that you need to do is to purchase the materials that you will need. The most common, although what you personally need will depend on your house, are paints, accessories, and cleaning items.

During

The designing stage involves all the hard work and manual labor. If you want, you can hire an interior designer to do this task for you. But if you want to do it on your own, things can be made easier by doing it systematically.

Begin with the floors, the walls or the ceilings. Then, you can proceed to the furniture and other home fixtures. You can leave the extra room accessories as the last task that you will be doing. You can do the remodeling one by one, one furniture or house facility at a time. But, this may not allow you to see the change that you want to notice in your house. This is the reason why most do their home remodeling within a time that is as short as possible.

Feel free to deviate from your plan when you think that the new idea that you have will be better. Sometimes, you can’t really make a good decision in terms of the design unless you have seen it. Mix and match colors as you see them fit. Try out different combination until you come up with what seems to be the best one.

After

Once you have done all the plans in remodeling the house, the after care will involve, of course, tidying and keeping the materials that were used. As early as possible, remove marks of renovations such as paint splatter, furniture drag marks, etc. Aside from that, it is also important to take good care of the “new house”. House cleaning should be done regularly. It should be kept clean, and its current look should be maintained. Take note that you can keep the look of the house as long as you like. But, remodeling it again in the near future may also be considered.…