 |
|
|
Lighting Tips
|
|
-
"The standard incandescent light bulb is very inefficient at producing light. It wastes much of the electricity that it uses by producing the byproduct of heat. This heat also leads to the relatively short life span of these bulbs. A fluorescent bulb can last more than 10 times longer and wastes less electricity."
-
"Use accent lighting to add style to your rooms. You can use it to illuminate artwork or special features in your home. Have your accent lighting controlled by different switches to be able to set a variety of different moods. "
-
"Low voltage lighting makes a perfect choice for outdoor lighting. A transformer drops the standard 120 volt output down to a much safer level. This allows you to bury cable just below the surface because of the reduced shock risk."
-
"Save money by replacing your incandescent light bulbs with longer life and more efficient fluorescent bulbs. Most replacement bulbs contain an adapter but make sure that the light bulb you purchase fits your socket before you buy it."
|
There are currently no Announcements.
House Cleaning
|
|
-
"When using bathroom cleaners or products containing bleach, be careful not to drip any of the cleaner on carpets. They can easily bleach carpeting."
-
"Make a house cleaning schedule. Staying organized will help you make the most of your time and will remind you to clean areas before they get too bad."
-
"A solution of bleach will kill mildew in showers and bathtubs. Be careful to allow plenty of ventilation when using bleach and not to drip the cleaning solution on carpet or other textiles."
-
"Stay organized. Keep all of your house cleaning supplies organized and together. You can buy a storage tray with a handle at most home improvement stores to easily organize and carry your cleaners."
-
"Rinse dishes and put them in the dishwasher as soon as you've finished using them. Dishes that have sat for a period of time can take 2 to 3 times longer to clean later."
|
There are currently no Announcements.
|
|
|
Positive Attitude Changes Everything - P.A.C.E.!
|
While many assumed that paper was on its way out as scheduling and planning was relegated to electronic devices and desktop computers, they were wrong. Computers certainly play an important role in daily business and personal planning. However, rather than replacing paper, computers are being used in conjunction with traditional business tools. More
Your bathroom is ready for a major overhaul. Where do you begin? You know which tub you want. The shower is uncertain. You saw a great vanity you'd love to have. The old tile floor looks terrible, yet you don't know how you want to replace it. You want the commode moved but you don't know if that's possible ... the list goes on. You may want to consider hiring a professional to help with the project. More
Now that spring has arrived, a lot of people are itching to get started on their home improvement projects. But where can you turn to find a good contractor? More
Walk into any recently built house on the Parade of Homes tour and you're likely to find at least one room with a totally rustic look. Here are some tips on how to create a similar look in your home. More
Winter is here and with rising fuel costs, the U.S. Department of Energy is already warning that heating bills will be higher this year. Want to cushion the blow to your wallet? There are some things you can do to make your home more energy efficient before winter arrives. More
Some of us are lucky enough to have a pool. If you are even luckier, you get to enjoy that pool year round. But then, pool maintenance never takes a break. Follow these daily, weekly, and other maintenance tips to keep your pool looking great. More
Having the deck of your dreams can be a snap - literally. Modular deck tiles - real hardwood tiles that easily snap together - are the next hot thing for do-it-yourselfers out to expand their outdoor living space. More
A custom kitchen requires careful planning of many details in several different areas. Finding the right contractor for your project and communicating your plans ensures the contractor understands your needs, style, and desires before the project starts. More
A custom kitchen requires careful planning of many details in several different areas. Finding the right contractor for your project and communicating your plans ensures the contractor understands your needs, style, and desires before the project starts. More
Whether it's extra bedroom space, a new den, a playroom or just a quiet spot to call your own, finishing the basement is one of the greatest ways to improve cramped living. However, a basement has a few unique characteristics that must be considered to ensure that the space functions well for your needs. More
|
|
|
|
Plumbing Tips
|
|
-
"A clogged drain in a bathroom sink is often the result of hair building up around the stopper. Most stoppers are removed easily for cleaning by either turning them and lifting up or detaching the lift mechanism from under the sink."
-
"If you have a septic system, commercial drain cleaners can kill the bacteria in your system that make it work. Use these chemicals sparingly or not at all."
-
"Does your toilet run constantly. Check the flapper at the bottom of the tank to make sure that it seats completely. Also check the float ball for leaks."
-
"Periodically drain your water heater to remove sediment from the bottom. Sediment in the bottom of the tank can cause the water heater to fail prematurely."
-
"Have hard water? Consider having a plumbing professional install a water softener in your home. Water softeners remove minerals from your water reducing scale buildup in your system and improving the performance of soaps."
|
There are currently no Announcements.
-
"Do not water your grass at night. Watering at night will encourage fungus to grow which can eventually kill your grass."
-
" Do not cut your lawn too short. The shorter you cut it, the more shallow the roots are. Grass cut to the proper height will look better and will be healthier."
-
"Keep the blade on your lawn mower sharp. A dull blade doesn't cut your grass, it tears it and leaves it susceptible to disease and fungus."
-
"Fertilize your lawn about 4 times per year starting in the spring. Your last fertilizer application should be at the start of winter. Set up a schedule with your landscaping service. "
-
"If your lawn sees heavy use or you just want to do as much as you can to help your lawn, consider aerating it. You can find aerators at most any home improvement store. They help reduce the compacting of soil that occurs on a lawn."
-
"Never cut your lawn when it is wet. This can tear your grass and leave it exposed to mildew and fungus."
|
|
|