Home Remodeling Ideas to Save Money and Frustration!
Home Remodeling Ideas to Save Money and Frustration!
Today everybody is looking to save. Save money, of course, but also to save frustration and hassles. And, all the home remodeling ideas now must have those elements. Even though we’re all trying to cut back and become more frugal, we still want to create, to build and to improve our lives and our homes.
But what can be done on a limited or even nearly nonexistent budget?
Well, there’s actually quite a bit, if you’re willing to step out of your set plans and concentrate solely on adding value to your home and doing smaller, more focused projects. Sure, we’ve all been beat up some financially, but there are ways of fighting back.
For instance, when it comes to appliances and fixtures; new is nice, but there are many, many options out there that will improve the look and equity of your home and add a “gently cared for” attitude. I mean think about used or recycled items. Nobody has ever asked me if I bought a particular thing at a salvage yard after its been installed. And, if it works perfectly, who cares?
Look in Craigslist or simply Google “particular item your town” (ie. used fireplace insert Dallas TX) and be willing to flex a little. Also, see if there’s a salvage business close to you. Google “salvage building materials your town” or “used appliances your town.” Some larger cities even have more than one. Habitat for Humanity also has “ReStores” all over the country. If you’ve never been in one, you don’t know what you’re missing! Nice stuff, cheap.
Always buy your own materials. As a homeowner, you are considered the General Contractor. That means you’re the boss. Talk to your building contractor (if you’re going to hire one) and see if they’re willing to not mark up the materials and show receipts as they go. Most will, or at least sell them to you for what you could get them for from Home Depot. Get 3 bids and tell all the bidders what you’re doing if they ask.
Do as much of the work as you can. The people at the “big boxes” are usually more than willing to show you how to do things. A lot of them have actually worked in the industry. And, every remodel is made up of parts and pieces. You’d be surprised what you can do! Remember: most home improvements don’t return what it cost to do them unless you do the work yourself.
Be patient. Buy items out of season (furnaces and insulation in summer, AC and landscaping supplies in winter, etc.) and hire labor in the rainy season or winter when they’re hungriest. Also, if you’re planning a large remodel and can take your time, buy the individual items when they are on sale, gathering your materials and storing them in the garage until you’re ready.
Finally, don’t finance the project… even if you plan on putting your home on the market when you’re finished and pay off the loan then. In fact, unless you’re comfortable jumping into large projects, don’t even consider ones that need you taking out a loan. For more information, along with free tips and ideas for your home, go to and click around. You’ll find lots of ways to help you get the most bang for your buck!…
Reflect Your Passion With an Herb Garden Design Theme
Reflect Your Passion With an Herb Garden Design Theme
Reflect your passion with an herb garden design theme. The herb gardens described here are easy to maintain, easy on the pocketbook, and best of all, they make a statement about you.
In keeping with the “easy to maintain” concept, container-planting is the way to go. You’ll need potting soil, pots with drain holes, and organic fertilizer. With the exception of what you plant to reflect your theme, that’s about it.
If you love to barbeque, a barbeque theme garden might be just the thing to support your passion. Since decks and patios are where outdoor cooking happens, locate your barbeque theme close by. You can fit all the herbs mentioned in three containers all about 24 inches diameter in size. In one container, plant tomato with a cage or trellis, with basil, thyme, dill and parsley. In a second, plant peppers (red and habanera) and another tomato plant close together so both can use the cage, and add mint and some more basil. In a third container plant rosemary, chives and oregano. To add a final touch, have the artist in your family decorate the containers to reflect your theme.
Tea drinkers love to experiment with different tastes, and having fresh herbs to make their favorite brews makes the taste even better. A tea garden not only supports this passion, but it can be a place to entertain or to spend quiet time. Chamomile would look great in a fancy tea kettle, and you can add large cups and saucers to continue the theme. Make sure you drill holes in anything you’re going to plant in so you will have adequate drainage. “”Easy to grow herbs” in your tea garden are any of the mints, lemon or lime balm, scented geraniums, and-of-course chamomile. Many other herbs make great teas as well, so have fun, experiment, and enjoy a variety of brews.
Another theme that creates an interesting fragrance is a citrus theme garden. You might consider a Meyer lemon tree as a focal point or a dwarf navel orange tree. Now add herbs that will continue the citrus theme like lemon or lime balm, and orange mint will work too but it’s a bit invasive. To complete this theme, add citrus colored flowers such as marigolds, zinnias, calendula, chrysanthemums, and (although not a flower) margarita sweet potato vine.
If you’re into home remedies, a medicinal theme garden can be functional as well as beautiful. There are so many choices in this category that you would need a farm to grow them all. Some of the more common medicinal herbs are aloe vera, chamomile, tea tree, summer savory, dandelion, feverfew, saw palmetto, passionflower, and avocado.
Create an herb garden theme that resonates with your particular interest. If that’s Shakespearian, for example, plant herbs mentioned in his writings. A formal herb garden can transport you back to another time in old England; or try a biblical theme with herbs mentioned in the bible. And if you’re an Italian food lover, create a pizza herb garden in the shape of a pie.
Creating a theme garden that reflects your passion invites conversation, provides fragrance and flavors you like, and best of all it’s just plain fun to do.…
Tips To Help You Create The Herb Garden Design Of Your Dreams
Tips To Help You Create The Herb Garden Design Of Your Dreams
Your herb garden design can be as simple or intensive, formal or informal, as you’d like. Following a few basic tips can help you create the herb garden that’s right for you and also increase the value of your property.
Low growing plants look best in small and formal gardens.
A variety of different heights look best in an informal garden.
Place taller herbs in the back.
The shortest plants will be in front, some of them being used as border accents.
Choose the plants proportionally to place behind the others.
Consider placing culinary herbs in one area.
Place different aromatic herbs in different locations for the full effect of their fragrances.
Include the presence of a path through part of the herb garden.
Every spring divide old clumps of oregano, thyme, and mint and replant them. This will increase the life of these herb plants and expand your herb garden.
Place the plants in the order that pleases you.
Keep adding perennials to your garden beds.
Do not place dill and fennel side by side or they will cross-pollinate!
Consider adding a bird bath and hummingbird feeders.
Add a bench or chair so you can sit and enjoy your herb garden.
Accents in your garden
Some gardeners like to maintain a constant border with one herb, perhaps lavender, rosemary, or parsley. One of my garden beds is a mix of herbs, old-fashioned herbal flowers, peppers, and eggplant with a border of beets around it, as I like the red foliage of the beets. Another flower-herb bed contains artichokes, calendulas, and feverfew with a border of strawberries. You’d be surprised at how this pulls the visual appeal of the garden together. If you want to use two or maybe even three plants as a border, arrange them in a way that you have a visually pleasing pattern to them.
To set your herb garden design apart or just portions of it use hedges, trellises or even wooden fences. If you can’t use any of these or don’t like these ideas, why not enclose the area using rows of potted plants or container herbs.
An important rule to remember is: the larger the garden, the more maintenance it demands. If you have the time, energy, and don’t mind then the sky is your limit, make it as large as you want or as many different gardens as you’d like.
We now have 16 gardens and they do take a lot of time, but we are willing to put in the time as we enjoy them. We make sure each garden has perennials as well as herbs and plants that self seed each year. Saving seeds and doing cuttings, divisions, and layering helps keep down the cost of purchasing new plants each season.
Grouping your plants
When deciding your herb garden design and exactly where your specific herbs will live, you really don’t have to worry about breaking any hard and fast gardener’s rules. One rule to keep in mind is to separate those herbs that like the dry soil – like rosemary and thyme – from those that need more moisture – like basil and parsley.
One More Tip
The most important advice I can give you is to create your herb garden design exactly how you want it so you get the most enjoyment out if it.…
A Buyer’s Guide to Whirlpool Baths
A Buyer’s Guide to Whirlpool Baths
When it comes to adding a popular feature to your bathroom, whirlpool bathtubs are an attractive option that offer personal comfort and buyer appeal, in the event you are considering selling your home. The size of your bathroom can dictate the size of the whirlpool baths you are able to install, but there are three basic types of whirlpool tub models that dominate the market. It helps to understand the difference in whirlpool baths to use as a guide, when you are ready to buy one.
When you are considering the best whirlpool baths to install, it can depend on whether you have children or an elderly adult with blood pressure issues or strong medications. Another factor might be the size of your bathroom because some people will consider corner garden tubs, two person whirlpool bathtubs or even a single jetted whirlpool bath that fits in a standard bathtub opening, but features a jetted tub feature for a relaxing massage.
Thermal Air Whirlpool Baths:
Thermal air whirlpool bathtubs operate by distributing heated air bubbles, which are controlled by a thermostat. You control how hot or warm the air bubbles will be and you can also control how active the bubbles are by changing the speeds. These are comfortable massaging bathtubs that are safe for the elderly or for younger children because the force is not as high pressure as the pumped hydrotherapy models of whirlpool baths.
Hydrotherapy Whirlpool Baths:
Hydrotherapy whirlpool baths are probably some of the most popular and are considered the traditional jetted bathtubs that use a pump to send the water through strategically placed jets in the tub walls, typically 6 to 8 jets. These are relaxing to sore muscles because the water pressure coming through the jets offers a massaging action through the water jets. These whirlpool baths aren’t recommended for young children or the elderly, however, because the force of the jets can make it hard to maintain proper balance, while in the water. They are great for relaxing muscles, relieving stress and tension and lowering blood pressure, however.
Combination Thermal Air Hydrotherapy Baths:
Offering the best of both worlds, the combination thermal air hydrotherapy whirlpool bathtubs offer either function or both, which makes it easier for you to control the type of bathing to be done by young children and the pressure of the jets can be lessened by using the thermal air bubbles instead. These whirlpool bathtubs are a little more expensive because you have the combination of motors and pumps to give you a wider option of the amount of massaging you get, whether you prefer jetted or the softer massage of thermal air bubbles.
When you are deciding on the best whirlpool bathtubs for your bath, it helps to measure your opening, and see what models you have to choose from. If you have a large bathroom, you might be able get a larger whirlpool bathtub that has enough room to accommodate two people. On the other hand, you can easily find single whirlpool bathtubs that will fit in a standard bathtub opening and they make a great bathroom enhancement that adds personal comfort and buyer appeal when it comes to resale time.…
Arabic Bathroom Design
Arabic Bathroom Design
The Moroccan approach to bathing takes the idea of bathroom design to another level. Communal bathing in neighbourhood hammams turned the concept of the bathroom into something much more than a utility space, but into an important social arena where business, gossip and relationships were formed and sustained. Hammams remain an important part of life even today and traditional Arabic bathroom design incorporates rich references to both cultural and social influences from the Arabic and Islamic worlds.
Tadelakt
A traditional take on plastering – Tadelakt is a lime based mortar/plaster, coloured with natural powder dyes, finished with a coat of black Marseilles soap and stone polished, rendering it waterproof. In Morocco this finish is the norm for bathing and bathroom areas, the material is easily malleable and can be sculpted to create soft, tactile curves that incorporate solid baths or shower areas.
Tiles
Famous for intricate tiles, the Islamic geometric designs incorporated in Moroccan architecture offer much more than simple decoration, but more a representation of both religious and cultural references to the interconnectivity of life. The patterns are so complex that mathematicians throughout the ages have battled to decipher the codes. Mosaic or hand painted bathroom tiles are a perfect complement for Tadelakt bathrooms, infusing traditional Arabic design into the heart of the space.
Basins
Rather than porcelain units, palatial Moroccan bathrooms cater for a more refined taste, where a hand hammered copper bathroom sink and bath are polished and sunken into mosaic tiled stands.A�
Bathing
Water takes a unique place at the heart of Islamic culture, religion and design – as life-giving, sustaining and purifying it is recognised as the origin of all life on earth and as such is ascribed status within the culture. At famous Moorish settlements in Southern Spain, such as the Alhambra, the presence of water runs through the entire heart of the structure. In respect to the humble bathroom the same prevalence is given in creating a space in which to contemplate, purify and rejuvenate.
Mirrors
Morocco is renowned for its traditional crafts, including blacksmithing and metal work that create beautiful, intricate patterns in everything from window shutters, lamps, jewellery and frame work. Incorporating either beaten metal or patterned framed mirrors into the bathroom is a great way to infuse interior design with a signature look.
Creating an arabic bathroom is an easy method to have that unique wow factor in your home.…
Stone Garden Water Features Add Elegance and Beauty to Your Garden
Stone Garden Water Features Add Elegance and Beauty to Your Garden
Stone garden water features for many people are a place for relaxation and contemplation. They are aesthetically pleasing and soon become a home’s outdoor focal point. Stone is found everywhere in nature and can be shaped and fitted into any garden setting.
A cascade water feature is easily adapted to any setting. The feature can be a single rock that has water flowing across the top or a series of rocks that form a waterfall or elevated brook. This is to achieve the sounds of running and splashing water. Individuals can also incorporate stone statues specifically designed for garden ponds. However, the most naturally looking and sounding water features use what nature has already provided.
There is elegance and beauty in naturally formed stone, and it can be used to develop a specific theme. Stone that has natural depressions can be used to plant grasses and other plants typically found around water. Simply fill the depression with an adequate amount of growing soil and begin planting. Individuals can add lighting so the cascade water feature can be enjoyed at night, as well. Ground cover can used around the feature to give the impression the rock formations occurred naturally. Ensure any plants or shrubs planted will not eventually block any views. Owners can also encourage the growth of mosses. The moss will be provided plenty of moisture from the mist created by the splashing water. Soon it will look like nature provided the theme and the stone garden water feature will be the home’s destination spot.
Be mindful of the fact that after a few years the water garden may take on a different look. Various plants and shrubs will have grown up around the feature and they can possibly change the look and ambiance. However, many owners strive for this more natural and slowly changing environment. The stone water garden can be a private setting for relaxing and getting away from it all, or a gathering spot for all members of the family. Individuals can place stone benches or wrought iron tables and chairs near the water features to enjoy afternoon tea or that first cup of coffee in the morning.
There will be some maintenance required to maintain the water features. Leaves and debris should be removed as quickly as possible. Organic matter allowed to decompose in water can encourage algae growth. Typically, water pumps will be used and they must be kept free of debris, as well. Proper aeration will keep the water fresh and clean. Good pond aeration is also vital if individuals plan to raise fish in their pond. A cascade water feature will provide proper aeration by keeping the water moving. To prevent stagnation and algae growth the water must be provided with dissolved oxygen. Waterfalls and running water collect dissolved oxygen from the air and then deposited it into the water.…
Garage Doors – Installing a New Door Can Be Paid For With Tax Credits and Rebates by the Government
Garage Doors – Installing a New Door Can Be Paid For With Tax Credits and Rebates by the Government
Most home owners either do not have the space or funds to build a separate outbuilding which can serve as a workshop. Because of these limitations most garages either double as or are adapted to be a work area. Whether the garage is used for wood working or an automotive mechanic work, after the first winter season it becomes clear that it can be very chilly and painful on the hands.
Should the winter be especially harsh, as has been experienced in the past few years, any garage time is usually delayed until warmer weather. Before December 31, 2010 is the perfect time to replace the garage door with an insulated door for several reasons. The benefits will do more than just provide a warm interior.
An insulated garage door goes a long way for regulating a comfortable temperature not just during the winter, but the summer months as well. There are large tax incentives for those qualifying energy efficient doors; up to $1500, in fact. Newer construction is superior to the aging doors of 15 years ago. Not every door is created equal, however.
There are commonly three basic styles of construction: steel, composite or genuine wood doors. Vinyl garage doors are available, too, but all of these types of doors have their own advantages ranging from strength to being permanently stained or fading and does not always include insulation automatically. It is true that any door will provide a minuscule amount of protection from extreme hot or cold temperatures, but even the most basic door without insulation will only shield a home owner temporarily; usually for just an hour or two.
An average price for a base steel garage door model and the most inexpensive type can range from about $850 – $1100 installed depending on the region. Base models do not include any insulation. An insulated steel door will usually start at a couple of hundred dollars more, but keep in mind that the increased expense of several hundred dollars in upgrading can easily be made back with tax credits under the government stimulus package that went into effect during 2009. Essentially the home owner will get the extra strength of an insulated garage door increased comfort for free. The garage door company should have all of the information regarding any tax credit available, as it is a good benefit for up selling.
Budget is usually the deciding factor for most home owners. As additional features or styling is added, such as windows commonly referred to as glazing, the cost, of course will increase. Composite garage doors offer the best of steel and wood overall with regards to styling and price. Genuine wood custom garage doors can easily cost more than $5,000, but the greatest variety of styles and the beauty of real wood is unmatched by any other material. It is rare, but on occasion the garage door company may have a cancelled or returned special order which may be available at a reduced price. There may be substantial saving available if this is the case.…