One of the easiest ways to get your home noticed is by installing exterior lighting. A few outdoor-lighting upgrades also provide an inexpensive way to boost your home's overall value. An added bonus is that a well-lighted home becomes a less-than-desirable target for prowlers.
If your home has a deck or a patio, you've got a party waiting to happen. But summer days can be so hot! Your best bet for outdoor summer entertaining is a late-afternoon or evening deck party - when your guests can relax and enjoy your hospitality, minus the oppressive mid-day heat. And the best way to extend the life of your outdoor gathering is to ensure the fun doesn't peter out when the sun goes down. The best way to accomplish that is with attractive, functional outdoor lighting.
Outdoor lighting doesn't just mean overhead porch lights anymore. Think creative! Think innovative. Think low-to-the-ground lighting to illuminate brick pathways and guide your guests' steps along drives and walkways.
Think inventive lighting options - perhaps in festive or whimsical complementary accent colors - to highlight particularly attractive landscape details... like the evening-blooming primroses gracing your garden.
Think striking. Nothing sets off a decorative outdoor detail (an exquisite door wreath, or an unusual shrub or tree, for instance) quite like the singular focus afforded by a well-placed spotlight.
Think romantic. Subtle outdoor lighting can give that moonlight dip for two in the pool or hot tub an extra touch of cozy ambiance.
But it's important to remember outdoor lighting isn't just inventive, striking or romantic. It's also practical and safe. It seems that not a week goes by that we're not hearing about another tragic home invasion. One of the easiest ways to prevent your family from being another heartbreaking statistic is to ensure you've got adequate outdoor lighting - to keep would-be home invaders from targeting your home in the first place.
For superior exterior visibility, invest in lighting along walkways, front and back porches and the garage. Consider installing lights along the rear of your home, as well. Prowlers won't go to a well-lighted area; and if you live in a wooded area, there's no better way to keep skunks and raccoons at bay.
If your busy schedule has you returning home after dark, a few timer-activated spotlights trained on your garage and all your entryways will prevent you from ever returning to a dark house; and they'll help eliminate potential threats to your safety. Motion-activated lighting provides another low-cost solution.
Whichever exterior-lighting option(s) you decide on, you're certain to love your home's new look - not to mention the enhanced feeling of security you and your loved ones will experience.
Showing posts with label home maintainence. Show all posts
Showing posts with label home maintainence. Show all posts
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Measuring Crystal Chandeliers
The common concept of the masses regarding crystal chandeliers is that the home is a big factor to one's home. It is said that the crystal chandeliers give life to people's home. In some homes they spend big amount of money for their home's elegance and crystal chandelier is one important factor of one's home. It is as important as candle on a birthday cake. So when choosing a crystal chandelier you must be really knowledgeable and know your craft, because choosing one can be real tricky at times. It is important for you to be able to at least measure up some spaces on where you plan to put your crystal chandelier. The first thing you'll need to figure out is what size you need. There is a rough guide to fitting a chandelier to your room size - for each foot of your room, figure 2" of chandelier. Measurement is very important because it factors many key information for placing your crystal chandelier.
For example, if your room is 14' x 16', a 30" chandelier would be the appropriate size as well, be informed that there are different size when it comes to crystal chandeliers so you better be up well-informed about your home's basic measurements. Here are some measurements that I think would help you a lot when it comes to deciding for your home. A table that seats 4-6 people will have a 20" - 24" chandelier. For table that seats 6-8 people will fit a 25" - 29" chandelier and a table that seats 8-10 people have to fit a 30" - 36" chandelier. The size is very important you have to give it a definite attention for you to be able to determine if it fits or not.
Another important thing to consider for picking crystal chandeliers are its dimension for your home, it is very important to see if your wall is high or low to avoid having some conflicts on it when you put it. Buying a big chandelier for a low ceiling may be a little out of character, buying a small chandelier for a high ceiling will make it look like its too small and the details will be hard to see at all. There are more to consider on owning a crystal chandelier than just owning one. People have to be aware of what it can be in you home, it isn't just another décor in your home, it serves as lighting and a good décor as well. It has a lot of work not just for external look and appearance.
So when considering a crystal chandelier for your home be more aware and be more knowledgeable in considering a chandelier for your home. Doesn't just be one of the people who buy it for elegance and style; rather be one of those smart owners who purchase them for their functions. Measurements are very important and knowing your home is very important, don't waste time, effort and money for nothing. Be smart and be informed. Have a glamorous home and take advantage of its functions.
For example, if your room is 14' x 16', a 30" chandelier would be the appropriate size as well, be informed that there are different size when it comes to crystal chandeliers so you better be up well-informed about your home's basic measurements. Here are some measurements that I think would help you a lot when it comes to deciding for your home. A table that seats 4-6 people will have a 20" - 24" chandelier. For table that seats 6-8 people will fit a 25" - 29" chandelier and a table that seats 8-10 people have to fit a 30" - 36" chandelier. The size is very important you have to give it a definite attention for you to be able to determine if it fits or not.
Another important thing to consider for picking crystal chandeliers are its dimension for your home, it is very important to see if your wall is high or low to avoid having some conflicts on it when you put it. Buying a big chandelier for a low ceiling may be a little out of character, buying a small chandelier for a high ceiling will make it look like its too small and the details will be hard to see at all. There are more to consider on owning a crystal chandelier than just owning one. People have to be aware of what it can be in you home, it isn't just another décor in your home, it serves as lighting and a good décor as well. It has a lot of work not just for external look and appearance.
So when considering a crystal chandelier for your home be more aware and be more knowledgeable in considering a chandelier for your home. Doesn't just be one of the people who buy it for elegance and style; rather be one of those smart owners who purchase them for their functions. Measurements are very important and knowing your home is very important, don't waste time, effort and money for nothing. Be smart and be informed. Have a glamorous home and take advantage of its functions.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Home Maintainence And Improvement To Keep Car working
It is surprising how many car owners allow their vehicles to fall into disrepair even though the car is their only mode of transportation, as well as a huge purchase. Being neglectful of the car causes some rather large problems and often times results in the purchase of a new one as repairs can get far too costly. Keeping the car, not just in working order, but in good working order, is just plain smart and healthy for all parties involved.
The thing is, a car that runs well is just a smart idea. The potential for accidents, breakdowns, and major mechanical failure is drastically reduced when the car is in good condition. Not only is this so, but a car in good condition easy on the eyes, ears, and the passengers. Simply put, a car that is sputtering and vibrating is far less desirable than one with a smooth ride and a quiet purr. The task of maintaining the car in good working order may seem a daunting one, but most of it is just common sense and practical steps that any owner should implement.
The first step is done even before the car is in your possession. Buy a car that has a record for reliability and dependability. Understand that all cars are not created equal and if you have specialized needs and performance requirements, purchase a car that can meet or exceed these. Research and ask questions before putting down the money for that car. A car with a good record will pretty much guarantee, but not all the time, that few repairs will be needed as long as the car is kept tuned and in check which brings us to another way to keep the car running well.
Service the car as often as required or as needed. Whenever a problem does arise do not hesitate in taking care of the problem. Some issues can be addressed by the owner while some, unfortunately, need the attention of a mechanic. The Owner's Manual is a great resource that allows you to know when and what needs to be replaced or looked at.
Basic issues that can be handled by the owner and which will improve the car's condition and keep it in working order can be anything such as replacing the air filter which can improve the gas mileage. No matter what year, results such as this are beneficial. Follow the recommended guide lines for changing oil as this will always help the function of the engine. There will be a noticeable difference in the performance of the car if you wait too long to change the oil. Tires are often overlooked yet easily taken care of and should always be inflated properly to avoid flats. These alone will improve the car's working order along with immediate care and attention of all other issues that arise. Other tips include having a friend drive the car as they will be able to spot problems that you may be used to and not aware of. Keep the car clean and take pride in it as this gives you cause to keep up with repairs. The way you drive will also affect the car's condition. Drive gently and with caution to avoid unnecessary wear and tear.
It is relatively easy to keep the car in good working order as it comes down to you. How much you care and how much you put into the car will mean a lot. Just be cautious and attentive to the car's needs and respond accordingly when an issue does arise as this will pretty much guarantee a car that works great.
The thing is, a car that runs well is just a smart idea. The potential for accidents, breakdowns, and major mechanical failure is drastically reduced when the car is in good condition. Not only is this so, but a car in good condition easy on the eyes, ears, and the passengers. Simply put, a car that is sputtering and vibrating is far less desirable than one with a smooth ride and a quiet purr. The task of maintaining the car in good working order may seem a daunting one, but most of it is just common sense and practical steps that any owner should implement.
The first step is done even before the car is in your possession. Buy a car that has a record for reliability and dependability. Understand that all cars are not created equal and if you have specialized needs and performance requirements, purchase a car that can meet or exceed these. Research and ask questions before putting down the money for that car. A car with a good record will pretty much guarantee, but not all the time, that few repairs will be needed as long as the car is kept tuned and in check which brings us to another way to keep the car running well.
Service the car as often as required or as needed. Whenever a problem does arise do not hesitate in taking care of the problem. Some issues can be addressed by the owner while some, unfortunately, need the attention of a mechanic. The Owner's Manual is a great resource that allows you to know when and what needs to be replaced or looked at.
Basic issues that can be handled by the owner and which will improve the car's condition and keep it in working order can be anything such as replacing the air filter which can improve the gas mileage. No matter what year, results such as this are beneficial. Follow the recommended guide lines for changing oil as this will always help the function of the engine. There will be a noticeable difference in the performance of the car if you wait too long to change the oil. Tires are often overlooked yet easily taken care of and should always be inflated properly to avoid flats. These alone will improve the car's working order along with immediate care and attention of all other issues that arise. Other tips include having a friend drive the car as they will be able to spot problems that you may be used to and not aware of. Keep the car clean and take pride in it as this gives you cause to keep up with repairs. The way you drive will also affect the car's condition. Drive gently and with caution to avoid unnecessary wear and tear.
It is relatively easy to keep the car in good working order as it comes down to you. How much you care and how much you put into the car will mean a lot. Just be cautious and attentive to the car's needs and respond accordingly when an issue does arise as this will pretty much guarantee a car that works great.
Home Maintainence Made Easy For All Seasons
Here's a handy home maintenance checklist for this fall. It includes some items most homeowners tend to overlook. For your convenience, print this out and keep it where you will see it.
The furnace filter should be replaced every three months. An easy way to remember this is to perform the inspection on the first day of spring, summer, fall, and winter. Or the first of each quarter (January, April, July, October).
Inspect the ducts, filters, and heating equipment. It may be best to clean and vacuum vents, ducts, and other heating components. Use a certified HVAC professional, if necessary. Many offer discount specials during the fall season.
Open and close the fireplace damper to ensure that it is operating correctly.
Clean the fireplace of ashes if you have not done this since last winter. A good New Years Resolution would be to always clean the ashes in a timely fashion.
Clean the interior of the chimney. Don't want to get covered with soot? Leave the dirty work to a chimneysweep. If you can't get Mary Poppins, try the yellow pages.
Install a top screen on your chimney to keep out debris and animals. Even raccoons have been known to fall down chimneys!
Check the levels of your propane or oil tanks. You will most likely need to replenish the supply.
Inspect and repair all pipes. To prevent freezing problems in colder climates, drain and shut off the outside faucets.
Clean gutters and downspouts. You don't want little "trees" growing in your gutters next spring.
Inspect the roof for loose shingles. Hint: If you have some extra roof shingles left over from your roofing job, immediately store a few in a not too noticeable area outside where they will be exposed to the elements. They will weather along with your roof shingles, and if you do need to replace an occasional shingle in the future, they will blend in very nicely with the rest of the roof
Check for leaks around roof vents, skylights, and chimneys. You may want to hire this out to a professional who is properly certified and insured.
Pressure wash and seal the deck. One coat should be sufficient.
Check for cracks in concrete and seal appropriately.
Inspect your foundation walls and seal any small openings. It's amazing how rodents and insects can squeeze through even the smallest holes, especially those where pipes or wires enter the house. Proper sealing also protects against moisture damage and heat loss.
Protect outdoor items such as patio furniture, grills, and hoses. The best protection is inside storage in a basement, garage, or shed. If this is not possible, wrap or cover them securely. Remember to drain the hoses first.
The furnace filter should be replaced every three months. An easy way to remember this is to perform the inspection on the first day of spring, summer, fall, and winter. Or the first of each quarter (January, April, July, October).
Inspect the ducts, filters, and heating equipment. It may be best to clean and vacuum vents, ducts, and other heating components. Use a certified HVAC professional, if necessary. Many offer discount specials during the fall season.
Open and close the fireplace damper to ensure that it is operating correctly.
Clean the fireplace of ashes if you have not done this since last winter. A good New Years Resolution would be to always clean the ashes in a timely fashion.
Clean the interior of the chimney. Don't want to get covered with soot? Leave the dirty work to a chimneysweep. If you can't get Mary Poppins, try the yellow pages.
Install a top screen on your chimney to keep out debris and animals. Even raccoons have been known to fall down chimneys!
Check the levels of your propane or oil tanks. You will most likely need to replenish the supply.
Inspect and repair all pipes. To prevent freezing problems in colder climates, drain and shut off the outside faucets.
Clean gutters and downspouts. You don't want little "trees" growing in your gutters next spring.
Inspect the roof for loose shingles. Hint: If you have some extra roof shingles left over from your roofing job, immediately store a few in a not too noticeable area outside where they will be exposed to the elements. They will weather along with your roof shingles, and if you do need to replace an occasional shingle in the future, they will blend in very nicely with the rest of the roof
Check for leaks around roof vents, skylights, and chimneys. You may want to hire this out to a professional who is properly certified and insured.
Pressure wash and seal the deck. One coat should be sufficient.
Check for cracks in concrete and seal appropriately.
Inspect your foundation walls and seal any small openings. It's amazing how rodents and insects can squeeze through even the smallest holes, especially those where pipes or wires enter the house. Proper sealing also protects against moisture damage and heat loss.
Protect outdoor items such as patio furniture, grills, and hoses. The best protection is inside storage in a basement, garage, or shed. If this is not possible, wrap or cover them securely. Remember to drain the hoses first.
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