Large projects can be intimidating, but they just need to be broken down. Holstine outlined five steps a home owner should take during the initial stages of remodeling to make things run more smoothly.

Step 1: Take an inventory of your needs. Look around your kitchen and identify the problem areas. Maybe your cabinets are falling apart, or the sink has an irreparable leak. Poor lighting can make it difficult to cook. Make a list of what must be changed.

Step 2: Make goals. What do you want out of your new kitchen? Some example goals include:

More space
The ability to compost more easily
Better lighting
Save energy and money
Step 3: Decide what you are going to do yourself and what will require a professional. Study your budget, time and skills to determine what you can take on.

Step 4: Hunt for the products you want. Perform good research to find nearby stores with products that meet your goals. Don’t forget to measure your spaces before shopping so you can buy accordingly.

Step 5: Put it all together. Write out as many details as possible and take the plan to your contractor. Try to cover everything, from the little things like cocks and grooves, to the big things like flooring and plumbing.

“Every little detail should be spelled out as specifically as possible so [the contractor] knows exactly what you expect from the project,” Holstine says. It is important to explain to the contractor your definition of “green,” because people have different ideas about what that means. If you want the contractor to meet your expectations, you must clearly outline them.

Another important aspect of home addition building relates to compliance of rules. Check out the rules and regulations laid out by the authorities concerned in New York City before embarking on home addition. As per rule, the property owner has to pay a certain fee to the local municipal before starting work on the home addition. The owner or remodeling contractor is also required to obtain all requisite clearances before starting the construction work. Care has to be taken to ensure that the home addition work does not disturb the neighborhood.

Once you prepare the master plan for home addition, freeze the design to enter the second phase. Identify a suitable contractor or professional specializing in home additions. Evaluate their work by checking with their past projects and clients. If you find this a difficult task, utilize the services of the architect in evaluating the jobs. However, at times, the architects themselves, will refer suitable candidates for the job. Besides, there are some agencies, which take up the entire house addition project from the beginning to the end. However, at every step, the property owner will be consulted. The architect agency will charge a lump some amount to execute the entire work. If yo are a professional engaged in a twelve hour job, it is suggested that you hand over the work of home addition to a professional firm. It will reduce your burden on various matters relating to preparing the estimates and purchasing the necessary materials.

When it comes to addition to the kitchen, keep a tight control on the budget. Since the kitchen accessories are costly, there are chances that you might over stretch the budgetary allocation. Be wise while spending on home addition.

What is a Green Building?

There has been an increasing concern with environmental and pollution issues in recent years. This has not come about completely without some serious justification. All indications are that we are in a serious crisis. The Green Building movement is a reaction to this crisis. A Green Building is a home, building, or other structure that is built, maintained, repaired, or even demolished with thought to the environmental impact. This impact may take several forms.

One of these forms is energy efficiency. The production of electricity from the burning of fossil fuels is one of the most harmful activities to the environment in existence today. Green Buildings consider renewable energy sources that might include the use of wind, solar, low impact hydro power, or biothermal energy. The source of power is not the only concern. Another concern is the reduction of power use in lighting and appliances.

Water pollution is another concern of the Green Building Movement. This is especially true in the case of urban runoff. Storm water runoff is a major source of pollution in rivers and lakes. Green Buildings take into consideration the reduction of all toxic materials. This includes mercury, asbestos, and lead. These three substances have been linked to major health problems.

Green Building also is involved in waste. Waste is a key word. Waste can be reduced. It can be reused and recycled. The reduction of waste in construction, or renovation, and even demolition involves such things as proper disposal of materials. Landscaping is also involved. Large scale landscaping projects involved with Green Building seek to protect and preserve natural resources as much as possible.

The above are just some of the factors that are part of the Atlas Green Building Movement. They have in common a concern for the environment. There are a wide range of issues that are nearing the real danger point. Global warming has become more than just a liberal hobby, and a recognized scientific fact. Pollution of the sea and the waterways is endemic and increasing. Asbestos and lead have poisoned and sickened thousands. People are beginning to wake up and realize that we live on a fragile planet and we continue to abuse it at our risk. The Green Building Movement is a place to stop the slide, and return to sanity. It is a grassroots movement that offers hope not only to us, but to the generations that will follow us upon this earth.

The highest return will involve correcting a specific type of functional obsolescence. The charts may tell you that adding a bedroom may return 70% and adding a bathroom may return 85%. In truth, adding a 6th bedroom to a 5 bedroom house and a 4th bathroom to a 3 bath house. But adding a 3rd bedroom and a bath in the form of a master suite to a 2 bedroom, 1 bath rambler on a great lot in a great location, can easily return double your investment dollars. Atlas Green Homes Houston

The needs will vary depending upon the type of pool you own. Therefore, this article will talk about it in general. You should always refer to your pool and pump instructions for additional information. Things you will likely need are liquid or powder shock, bromine, chlorine powder or tablets, sanitizing cartridge for the cartridge filters, pH increase or decrease and a test kit to test the chemical levels.

Do not take off just yet and run to the local pool supply store for chemicals. Stop and take a few minutes to check out all of your hoses, skimmer baskets, clamps, gaskets and o-rings. If any of the parts look like they might need replaced, take them with you to the pool supply store. It is a lot easier to match replacement parts if you have the old part with you.

Now that you have the easy part finished, it is time to begin the fun. The first thing required taking the cover off. You will want to enlist help for this, because you want to avoid getting any top water into the pool water. In an above ground pool, you should siphon the water off with a hose.

To get a good siphon started, hook up the hose to the spigot and put the other end of the hose into the top water. Turn the hose on for a minute to fill it. Next crimp the hose a foot or two away from the faucet, and with your other hand, disconnect the hose from the spigot. Position the hose at a downspout drain to discharge then let go of the crimp. The water will reverse and start to drain.

Once you have the water cleared, use a leaf rake to remove as many leaves and twigs as possible. Next, remove your cover weights or springs. At this time a few people positioned around the pool will help to keep the cover out of the water. Try to fold your cover like a blanket keeping the crud in the middle then remove the cover. You need to scrub the cover thoroughly so it is dry for summer storage.

Now it is time to attach all the pump hoses. Remember to lube plugs, fittings, valves, and o-rings with petroleum jelly. Also, be sure to remove any freeze plugs that were used to cover the hose openings. You will most likely need to add water to the pool. It needs to be filled to the skimmer halfway point.

At this point you should start re-circulating the water and check for any leaks around the pump and hoses. Once your pool is leak and drip free, skim off as much floating debris as you can with your skimmer net. Open all your valves to flood the hoses and prime the pool pump. Most manufacturers recommend constant recirculation of the pool water for at least three days. Any crud and debris on the sides and bottom of the pool will need to be scrubbed off. Use the broom attachment of your pool vacuum for this.

After all debris has been removed and the pool has been scrubbed, check your filter for cleaning. Some pumps have removable filters; others are back-flushed, so clean as directed. Once the filter is cleaned, you can now super shock the water as per your manufacturer’s instructions. If you start with green water, you will need a lot more shock. It may take a few days of recirculation to clear the water. Once the water has cleared, test your water or take a sample to your pool supply store and have it analyzed. Adjust the water as required and keep the recirculation going. All that is now left to do now is to wait for the water to warm up so you can start enjoying your pool.

Author , Atlas Green Homes

How many times have we heard the jokes about the ambitious do-it-yourself homeowner who starts project after project, only to stop in the middle and not finish any one of them? Usually the weekend warrior runs out of time, or perhaps money, or maybe he or she realizes that much more has been bitten off than can possibly be chewed. The results are evident – half-finished paintjobs that leave some walls in one color while others sport another; flooring has been exposed but never finished; kitchen cabinets are leaning against the wall yet will not be anchored in for weeks or perhaps months. Sadly, many a homeowner neglected to receive some sound remodeling tips prior to embarking on their tasks. To this end, here are some tips and tricks that will you to get off to a good start, before you actually pick up your checkbook or your tools!

One of the first remodeling tips that are usually neglected is the fact that it should have a general appeal. Granted, this may be common sense, yet it is astounding how many homeowners add or take away from their homes in such a way that a future sale is compromised. While the homeowner may think that a purple bathroom with yellow handprints is just darling, the potential buyer who tours the house two years down the line will probably wrinkle his nose at this décor faux pas. In the same way, if you decide to add on to your home, do it with an eye on the investment potential. In other words, do not do a half-fast job yourself, but instead pull the proper permits and hire licensed contractors to at least take a look before the building inspector stops by.

Experts have a tool box full of different small bathroom remodeling ideas, but most can be grouped into two categories: creating light and creating visual space. The illusions of space and light complement each other and expand a small space. Anyone who has tried to apply makeup in a small dark room knows how important light is, and it’s created in a variety of ways, both natural and artificial. Natural light comes from windows, skylights, and any other opening that allows sun into the space. Whenever possible, windows should be left uncovered or only lightly covered by a filmy white or light-colored window covering. Paint colors from the cool end of the color spectrum reflect and enhance natural light, as do mirrors and light-colored flooring. Even a light-colored, inexpensive rug used to cover a dark floor can brighten up a space. Artificial light, originating from ceiling lights, wall sconces or lamps, can also brighten a space when employed artfully. Recessed lighting, which creates the illusion of space as well as light, could also be a viable option for you. Just be sure to use artificial light that is bright without being oppressive. Look in your home and garden store for special bulbs that can be used to effectively diffuse the light.

Other remodeling tips include the popularity versus functionality of a desired item, as well as value for the items. For example, just because recessed lighting is the latest fad, it may not be the lighting of choice for the bathroom where it may create dark spots and shade in undesirable areas. In addition to the foregoing, the value of the items purchased should remain intact, thus adding value to the home rather than simply costing money. Thereafter it is a smart idea to do a bit of research to see where home decorating trends are headed. Some old time favorites, such as ceiling tiles or even marble counter tops, are becoming a thing of the past, and if you are wondering about adding value to your home it is best to decorate with the market in mind. Naturally, not all homeowners will look to sell their properties within the next few years or until after the next remodel, yet this rule of thumb is certain to add value to the biggest investment you will ever make rather than just drain the bank account.

Hopefully these remodeling tips have added a little bit of common sense to the mix of weekend projects and large undertakings, and the next time you contemplate a project, please be sure to think it through from beginning to end before your jump into the car to head to the local big box store for supplies!

Author Bio
About the Author: M. Johnsona operates a variety of collectible websites and newsletters. Visit the website for many coin collecting tips. www.remodelingtipcenter.com

Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com – Free Website Content

Each year, thousands of children are rushed to emergency rooms after falling from the top bunk of their bunk beds or loft beds, while many more receive less serious injuries that are not seen by a medical professional. Typically, the main reason of injury involving bunk beds or lofts beds is horseplay and not from improperly installed beds. Before you purchase bunk beds or loft beds for your child, consider the age of the child and plan to make rules regarding the use of the bed. Although younger children are thought to experience more injuries, the most problems occur with older children who are more apt to disregard rules and exhibit unsafe or risky behavior.

For the most part, bunk beds and loft beds are just as safe as conventional beds. For smaller children, consider designating the lower bunk as their bed instead of allowing them to regularly climb to the top bunk. Also, ensure the bed is properly maintained and meets all current safety regulations and standards. Additionally, approximately eight percent of bunk bed related falls and injuries that must seek medical attention are related directly to the ladder. In addition to ensuring the ladder is properly installed, instruct your child on the correct method of ascending and descending the ladder.

When you begin searching for an appropriate bunk bed or loft bed for your child, choose a bed that appeals to all the safety standards. A bunk bed should have guard rails that have no more than three and one-half inches of space between the rail and the mattress. This will prevent children from falling through the space and potentially injuring themselves. If necessary, you may need to install extra boards if the space between the guard rail and the mattress. Furthermore, the guard rail needs to extend no less than five inches above mattress so that your child will be unable to roll off the top bunk.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the bunk bed or loft bed your purchase has guard rails on both sides. Even though one side of the bed will be placed next to a wall, a guard rail is essential due to a child potentially falling next to the wall and becoming trapped between the wall and the bed frame. Again, the guard rail should be no greater than three and one-half inches above the bed frame. Also, you should ensure that the mattress purchased to fit the bunk bed or loft bed properly fits the frame. Many parents choose to use a preexisting mattress used on a child-sized bed that is smaller than a traditional twin bed frame. Children can potentially fall between the mattress and the frame in this situation, so you should ensure the mattress is of the proper size.

In addition to ensuring the mattress is of proper size, you should also check that the mattress foundation is properly suspended above the bottom bunk or the space below. If the bed sits on a wooden platform, consider reinforcing the mattress with wooden slats or metal straps. This will prevent the top bunk from collapsing, especially if the lower occupant is kicking or pushing the above mattress.

By purchasing a quality, well constructed bunk bed or loft bed that meets all safety guidelines, you can make certain that your child will be safe and free from injury from the bed.

Author Bio
John Marcus specializes in Beds www.1-loft-beds.com

Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com – Free Website Content

Great for Resale

No groups could ever appreciate the cliché on decorating in neutral style more than that of the builders and real estate agents.  Fact is, neutrals make just any home more salable.  When staging and selling a home, it is important to make it easy for potential buyers to imagine the house as their own.  Incorporating colors and designs that personally suit you may not work the same magic with buyers.  With colors and designs that are universally appealing, you are keeping safe and decreasing the chances of turning off potential buyers.

Capturing a Timeless Look

One great thing about going neutral when decorating your home is that the look never goes out of style.  Unlike the ever-changing trendy and bold designs, you are not bound to change anything as soon as a new fashion swings in.  This lasting appeal makes the home improvement investment a cost-efficient one.

Versatility

Just as you should never go without any neutrals in your wardrobe, this same reason makes them a hit in home improvement and remodeling.  Selections of this category serve as the best foundation for whatever personal style you want to inject into just any room or the entire house.  As styles and hues in neutral complements with just any other color and décor addition, you can easily capture a modern minimalist, chic and elegant, sophisticated, vintage, homey country, conservative, old-world and just any style that can be considered your signature.  Let your creativity work and enjoy the many unique combinations you can explore.

Maximized Comfort and Relaxation

Today, with all the stresses that one is exposed to, the psychology of colors in homes is getting more and more attention when it comes to selection.  Neutral colors can considerably affect the mood within the house as well as hold a relaxing ambiance that soothes some of that big-city stress.  This can transform your house into a peaceful haven that you definitely would want to go home to.

An Atmosphere to Live with and Enjoy

Depending on your personal preferences and how expansive or limited the available space is, you can use various shades of neutrals to create an intimate or airier feel to the room.  Dare to get creative with accents and bring out the fun in any space.  Get as luxurious as you feel like by integrating materials and textures that can bring out the richness that the family would lavish at.  You see, neutrals can also be anything but boring.