Month: July 2019

Above-Ground Polyethylene Water Tanks

July 30, 2019
Home Improvement

Portability

Above-ground tanks provide the convenience of being portable so you can move them from one location to another as desired. However, water holds a lot of weight so it would need to be emptied before moving it. You may find that another location on the property will capture more water or will make grain harvesting more convenient.

Easy Access

Having an above-ground water tank makes it easier to access for just about any reason. If it requires repair or needs replaced due to age or wear and tear, you don’t have to dig up the ground or hassle with locating the tank or hitting a pipe. If an accessory needs replaced, it is easily available. This can include replacing a valve, the first-flush or potable-water screening devices, etc. It is also easier to move since it is on top of the ground.

In addition, an above-ground water tank is easier to clean, especially since it is routinely required for potable water systems.

Energy Efficiency and Reusing Natural Resources

Because you can use an above-ground water tank for rainwater collection, it saves energy by reducing the usage of electrical components that pump and filter water, which cities have to use to deliver water to residences. Even if you do not collect the water for drinking, it can be used for cleaning, watering agriculture or plants, etc. Basically, you are reusing natural resources and saving energy in the process.

Lifespan

Polyethylene tanks are a dependable solution for above-ground water collection, as well as grain storage. They can handle various chemicals, fuels, and oils so water and grain storage options are no problem. They carry the strength and durability needed for years of operation and handle the draining and filling of liquids with ease. In other words, they won’t expand and contract as much as other materials that experience the various levels of water at various points in time.

Ways Can Make Home Even Homier

July 29, 2019
Interior Design and Decorating
  • Decorate with Pictures: Adding personal memories and mementos to your tabletops and walls will help personalize your home. This gives your home the look and feel that someone is actually living there, rather than looking like a model home, sterile rental or hotel room. This is also a way to finally get those pictures off of your phone or camera and give them a real purpose.
  • Create Comfy Seating: Your home will automatically take on a homier feel when you decide to create comfy couches and chairs for guests and family. Having enough seating for all of your guests will make your space feel more inviting and decorative.
  • Make Your Bedroom a Sanctuary: A good night’s sleep is a priority for people of every age. Ensure sound sleep by making your bedroom as comfy and cozy as possible. This may include coordinated pillows and bedding, soothing lighting, and light blocking shades, to promote high quality sound sleep in your peaceful bedroom sanctuary.
  • Throw Blankets: Incorporating throw blankets and decorative pillows into your seating areas makes this space more welcoming and homier. This is a simple and functional way to make your space more inviting.
  • Candles: Adding natural light and scents from candles will improve the ambiance of your home. Candles add another dimension to your senses, while making your space visually appealing as well.
  • Eliminate Overhead Lighting: Instead of turning on those industrially-designed overhead light fixtures, try switching on a tableside lamp! This will eliminate harsh lighting and provide a warmer glow to your space. Even better, recessed LED lighting with a dimmer switch can give you maximum control to create just the perfect brightness for your space.
  • Add Seasonal Decorations: Keeping up with current holidays and weather trends will help update your home every season while also getting you and your family into that holiday spirit!

 

Info of Z-Wave Technology

July 28, 2019
DIY

Through Amazon you can get the Revolv smart home gateway, which networks with most of the major component manufactures, Insteon, Schlage, Kwikset, Philips, Nest, Honeywell and others. It comes with an iPhone app and no monthly subscription fee which is a huge bonus.

Insteon will connect with it’s own devices and sync with a cloud server, it also has no monthly service or subscription fees which really helps in the long term. It wouldn’t be much help to be stuck with a contract or subscription service when you are trying to upgrade or change things out in the future.

Lowes sells their own brand “Iris” which is pretty cheap at $99 and a pretty good way to get started.

Doing some research and checking out these different products will give you a good idea whether or not the gateway will meet your requirements, mesh with the systems you want to change out in your house and let you check out some components and their prices. A good gateway price should be around 100-220 dollars and you want to make sure it will either network with multiple brands like Revolv or has enough different components to cover your home automation needs. In the future things like Refrigerators and Coffee pots will be controllable directly over the network, but for now you could connect them through z-wave outlets to turn them off and on at a moments notice.

The Revolv system and with its iPhone app and soon the android app is the easiest way to get started. By being compatible with so many manufacturers and devices it will make it easier to get set up and allow you to shop around for the best value on the components you want to install in your house. The proprietary systems will make it harder to find a good value on some items.

Check out a few of the systems yourself and see if you can find a good fit. We’ll address some of the components soon as well as the challenges and practicalities of getting these systems set up.

Decorative Mosaic and Backsplash Tiles

July 27, 2019
Interior Design and Decorating

Porcelain tiles are commonly used for walls

There is no comparison having designs with porcelains tiles on the walls of your kitchen and living rooms. These tiles are quite famous due to long lasting nature and these will also enhance the aesthetic look of the walls. Among various porcelain tiles, you can opt for Bermini Bianco 2×2 Mosaic, Bermini Camo 2×2 Mosaic, Dimensions Concrete 2×2 Mosaic, Dimensions Glaicer 2×2 Mosaic, Dimensions Graphite 2×2 Mosaic etc

Decoration with Ceramic tiles

Decorative ceramic tiles always can give awesome effect to the walls of your rooms. These tiles are easy to maintain and are durable too. These tiles are hugely used in all types of residential and commercial decorations. There are large varieties of the ceramic backsplash and mosaic tiles are available in the market and you can easily select any one of them. You can go for the styles like Almond Glossy, Antique White Arabesque, Antique White Elongated with Hexagon pattern, Antique White Glazed handcrafted, Bianco Arabesque and more.

Design with pebbles

If you are willing to have a smart design of backsplash tiles on the walls of your kitchens and bathrooms, then opting for pebbles will be a nice idea. You can opt for various pebble collections in limestone, marble, and travertine etc. These are available in different colors and designs. Among various styles, you can select any one of the followings:

Alaska Gray polished pebble
Black and white pebble with tumbled pattern
Black and marble pebbles with tumbled designs.

Decorative blends are attractive

Using decorative blends for wall renovation will always give your house a nice look. These designs are just perfect for your kitchens and bathrooms. You can opt for Aria Interlocking Pattern with glass stone blend, Black marble and glass mixed pattern available in the gray shade, black marquee glass stone blend with shades in gray and black, Café NOCE glass stone with a nice blend of chocolates and creams.

DIY Garden Toolbox

July 26, 2019
DIY

Before you start working on this DIY project, make sure that you have all the necessary tools to make your work easier and convenient. If some of the tools are not available in your home, you can always borrow them from your neighbors and friends. Keep all these tools away from your children because they could be dangerous when they operate it without your knowledge. Here is the list of the following tools.

  • Circular saw
  • Hammer
  • Drill
  • Drill bit (1 inch)
  • Glue
  • Utility knife
  • Square

When you decide to make this project, make sure that you have prepared the required materials which will be used in this DIY project. Never rush in getting them to make sure that the materials you have selected are of great quality. Also, ask for the seller’s advice when buying these materials. Let them recommend the best wood that they think is perfect for your project. Here is the list of the required materials.

  • ¾ inch pine
  • ¼ inch wood dowel
  • Deck screws
  • Tree branch

The simplicity of this toolbox comes from the tree branches utilized for the handle and sides. Three branches is enough with a dimension of 25 inches each. Make sure that the tree branch that you have selected is strong and sturdy. This will add the durability value of the toolbox. As you search for tree branches, select those that are green and freshly cut ones. This is because they are proven to be strong and flexible. The saw, drill, and knife will be used to carve the handle ends. Aside from the branches, a wood dowel is also required with the following dimensions: 6 feet, 1×6 inches; 4 feet, 1×4 inches; and ¼ inch long.

After all materials and tools are prepared, you are now ready to start making your own garden toolbox. Before you start with the procedures, you need to gear yourself with safety goggles to protect your eyes. You should also make sure that there are no children hovering while you work because they might get harmed with the hazardous tools. Here are the steps.

  • Step 1: Construct the basic box. Cut the pine or cedar in accordance to the dimensions stated above. Screw the pines together with the use of deck screws. To avoid splitting the wood while screwing, predrill and drive the screw into a countersunk hole. When doing this step, make sure that you do it in a sturdy table so as to screw the wood more carefully and accurately. Crave the handle ends to suit the holes. The handle has to be bent in order to easily slip it into the next hole.
  • Step 2: Suit the branches. After the basic box is formed, fit the branches by cutting its ends. For more durability, fasten the wood to the sides of the box with nails and screws. The screws should be kept at a minimum of 1 inch from the ends to prevent splitting. Again, predrill to prevent wood splitting.
  • Step 3: Put in dowels. In the handle ends, drill about a ¼ inch in diameter. Next, put the dowels to secure the handle in place. This is the most crucial part because the handle must be very secure and strong to take on all the weight of the toolbox when you lift it anywhere.

After you have finished assembling and putting all the pieces together, you can paint it to add more color. Do this to have an organizer of your garden tools. It’s easy and fun to do. The sense of accomplishment that you experience after completing this DIY project is overwhelming. This does not only save you money, but it also promotes self- esteem.

Natural Surrounding With Wood Mosaics

July 25, 2019
Interior Design and Decorating

Wood Resists Temperature And Humidity

People liking to have unique décor in their house use these tiles. They can be installed like any other tiles by workers. They can be polished, lacquered and fixed using an adhesive like any other tile. They can be bent on curved surfaces which make the work easier. The surface is treated to resist temperature and humidity. This helps the interior designers to use them on the walls and floor of bathrooms and kitchen. There is an aesthetic feeling with wooden flooring. The value of the house increases with wooden tiles.

Wood Looks Lavish

The price may be a little more but it is worth for all the looks. They last for a long time and resist all the wear and tear. There is a bit of maintenance cost where the wood has to be polished and lacquered. The scratches and stains can be removed with a little buffing. It is always better to polish it with the natural color. If the color dulls also there is not much change because it has its own color. There are hardwood tiles also in the market. Here the tiles are made of hardwood. This may cost a little more but many builders prefer using it.

Wood Mosaics Available In Different Patterns

Wood mosaics have different colors, patterns, and designs. They can be mixed and matched to give a unique pattern. Investigating more about the quality and the price helps in deciding better. The waterproof coating allows the contractors to use them for bathrooms and kitchens. When wood was used in olden times there was a lot of maintenance necessary to keep them in good condition. But with these mosaics the maintenance is lesser and they need not be painted much as they are made robust for the wear and tear.

Easy To Install

Whether it is a newly built house or for renovation the wood mosaics is the correct choice. There is a lot of choices which can be within the budget of every builder. People liking eco-friendly will surely select these mosaics which can be laid easily. The wooden pieces are held by a mesh and can be cut and pasted according to the measurement. In cold countries, wood is ideal flooring as it keeps the place warm. People liking not to copy the neighbor’s style will surely like the wooden flooring. It gives a different décor and finish.

Wood Gives A Lavish Look

Only high-end houses and commercial places had the finishing of wood. Wood flooring and backsplashes proved to be costly. But now wood mosaics are affordable for everyone. The lavish and elegant look from wood is got through wooden mosaics. Only the people who had enough money would have wood decorations in their house. Now the people who like to have the wood designs can have it according to their choice. There are designers giving the mosaic panels according to the customer measurements. They offer installation also if the customer prefers he can take it.

British Colonial Interiors

July 24, 2019
Interior Design and Decorating

Create a dramatic impression with neutral shades and dark teak wood furniture with an interplay of local motifs like paisley, lotus, elephants and peacocks, mixing with traditional British furniture.These interiors have soft subtle textures, ivories and linen whites, with elegantly carved dark wood almirahs and hope chests, creating comfortable sophistication in light and airy spaces but with a touch of British formality. Choose from old hope trunks, distressed cabinets, folk painted tribal jharokhas and dark rosewood Calcutta Cabinets.

Lightweight and eclectic handloom printed fabrics, authentic textiles with floral paisleys, colorful ikats and joyful animal prints in cotton throws, tossed over the Maharaja bed or used as a blanket in the evening carelessly draped over the plantation chair, the ambiance is captured in the romantic monsoon settings of the tea estates.

Mix and match sari patchwork throw pillows for an eclectic, world travelled flair and pashmina jamavar blankets with a persian influence. Hang mandla printed cotton tapestries or banjara rugs in an erratic fashion, simplify with sheers and cotton voiles. Classic rope beds or daybeds, Indian diwans with ivory cushions make it relatively easy to get the British Colonial look.Using a rope chair as an accent, match with old door teak coffee and sofa tables, dark patinas play with the soft ivory furnishings.

Look for natural cottons and silks, handloom textured fabrics with traditional Indian folk prints in Indigo and Jaipur blues are a favorite. Rattan chairs and a colorful painted screen with Indian reds and green, floral patterns and beautiful hand carved designs are a fun and attractive way of adding the wow factor.

Light and airy subtle hues inspired by tropics, neutral shades are used on the walls of a traditional British Colonial interior. These airy hues helped negate the overwhelming tropical heat as well as the watery blue patinas on doors bring in the calming energies of the ocean.

Pale washed greens, distressed blues, creamy tans, ochre creams and ivory whites contrast beautifully against darker furniture and teak woods. Deeply carved headboards and rustic wood almirahs make the interiors globally sophisticated.

Find a Capable Fence Contractor

July 22, 2019
Home Improvement

The person you hire should be easily available, offer fair rates and provide warranty for the job. Contractors must be knowledgeable of building codes and local ordinances. City councils will require building permits before you can build a fencing structure. Henceforth, the contractor should take on this role of coordination and documentation. The height, materials and style should meet specifications prescribed by the local board.

Enclosures must conform to setback policies. This refers to the gap between structures from highways, streets, rivers, or flood plains. Fences just like sewage systems and landscapes are regulated according to zoning rules of your place. The fence contractor must be familiar with these processes. At the same time, these service providers must be covered by appropriate insurance policies which include worker’s compensation and liability. Liability protects the homeowner as well as neighbors against damages during the construction because of the contractor. Worker’s reparation will cover injuries to the workers.

Once you have made a choice, ask for a formal contract that will outline all details. This should include complete list of materials; prices; project timelines; total cost; and, payment schedules. Most contractors will ask for a deposit which is equivalent to ½ of the overall amount before constructions starts. This is usually used for purchase of materials. It is standard practice although you can save by buying the materials personally. Find out if the contractor will agree with this arrangement.

Using Gas Equipments

July 22, 2019
Home Improvement

Usage of registered and branded gas equipment – It is very important to check for the registered mark or the brand name before purchasing any similar accessory. A registered mark indicates that it has gone through safety tests before being put on sale and is totally safe for use.
Hiring registered installation and servicing professionals – While planning to install a new accessory or getting it serviced, one should make sure that the professional is licensed and accredited to take care of the procedure and knows the right methods to take care of the equipment. They should be capable of following guidelines from the user manual provided with the deice.
Performing periodic servicing for the equipment – The equipment should be sent for servicing frequently as with regular use, there may be leakage or similar problems that may turn fatal for the people as well as the surroundings.
Setting up of alarms – While there is a leakage of gas or carbon monoxide when there are no one to pay attention, setting up alarms can help people to be alert of a possible issue with the equipment. These alarms detect the leakage and accordingly provide alert messages by producing loud sounds to take necessary steps.
Good Ventilation – Setting up ventilation units such as wall ventilators or exhaust fans help the leakage to free itself. It is always necessary to set up installations in places that are open. Closed spaces cause a further problem, and the degree of fatality is higher.
Taking necessary measures while there are people around – When there is a leakage in a household or similar area, the first step is to evacuate the area and open up the windows to let the gas dilute itself. While there is a leakage, one should keep in mind that there should be no lighting up of naked flame such as cigarettes, candles, lighters, etc. This may allow the area to catch fire.

Build a Backyard Fire Pit

July 22, 2019
DIY

A sophisticated fire pit in the backyard can include a number of features like gas lines and in-built seating to add a dramatic punch! It is an inexpensive method to build a pit on your own than hiring a professional. You should start with digging a pit that takes roughly around eight hours. Add in cemented covers and retaining walls. While picking a significant spot for the pit, ensure that you look for a flattened area which measures around 10-12 feet in diameter.

Materials
1. Course concrete sand (1 cubic yard)
2. Retaining wall units
3. Concrete Adhesive
4. Gravel

Tools
1. Level
2. String
3. Stake
4. Shovel
5. Rake
6. Tape measure
7. Handheld tamp
8. Mallet
9. Wheelbarrow
10. Safety gloves
11. Wet saw
12. Plate compactor

Procedure – How to Build a Backyard Fire Pit

  1. Cut a part of the string which should have a length similar to the radius of the fire pit. Tie one end of the string to a stake that is kept at the center of the fire pit. The other end of the string is connected to an upside down can. Using paint, draw a circle to identify the boundary of the pit. Dig out the dirt and debris present within the marked circle. Ensure that the pit is around 18 inches deep.
  2. Gravel must be poured within the pit at a height of six inches. Make sure that you the base is smooth by pouring the gravel after every layer inside. Once you’ve raked the topmost layer, tamp it down. You can spread a thin layer of sand atop the granite layer.
  3. Mark an inner radius within the fire pit which functions as an efficient guide for placing retaining walls. After you’ve placed the first row retaining walls within the inner circle, secure the units into the gravel using a mallet. Ensure that the retaining wall units are at equal levels.
  4. The second row of retaining walls can comprise of a groove at the bottom and a ridge that stands at the end. This easily interlocks the retaining wall units together. Once the units are clean you can stick each unit together using concrete adhesive. The pavers added to the fire pit consist of 4-6 inch of a gravel base.
  5. The pavers can be laid in suitable pattern which depends upon the kind of style you’re looking for. You can lay the pavers in a staggered layout or arrange the bricks against one another. In order to get a smooth edge you can always purchase pavers from a store. Aluminum or plastic edge restraint keeps the pavers from moving.
  6. Using a plate compactor, the surface of the paver remains compact therefore being highly necessary. The pavers around the pit are usually tapped to remove the sharp corners for a less uniform look.