Month: November 2019

Centerpieces to Spice Up the Dining Room

November 21, 2019
Interior Design and Decorating

Before starting with the decoration, you should decide on whether to use a tablecloth or runner. Many people will choose a runner to protect the wooden furnishing from scratching and staining plus it looks modern and elegant. The tablecloth and runner also does not need to match the curtains but if a carpet is present, make sure that the colour suits the carpet. Alternatively, you can use contrasting colours such as black and white, yellow and red, or perhaps purple and green.

Centerpieces can be more than just flowers and candles. They can also be a combination of decor items or something completely out of this world and abstract.

The item that will be used as the main focus should be in a different colour than that of the tablecloth or runner. Try to avoid blending the same colour decor items so that guests can actually see the distinctive decor elements. The only exception to this decor rule is the use of transparent glasses and vases.

A trend that is taking wedding venues by storm is the upside down wine glass containing an item of sentimental value and a candle placed on top. This centerpiece is placed on a dark plate that accentuates the glossiness of the wine glass. This should be done in sets of three for a wholesome look.

Filling a tumbler (a tall glass) halfway with beads in the colour of your choice might seem generic. So try topping the bead filled glass with water and placing three of these tumblers on a reflective plate. This is a simple yet gorgeous centerpiece that won’t take too much effort to construct.

Sometimes people travel to different parts of the world and tend to buy souvenirs such as a bottle of local gem stones. However, when you get home you realise that you don’t have any use for these gem stones. Filling small mason jars with either a specific type of stone or mixing them could give the room a rustic appearance. You can either top the jar up with water or place a tea candle on top of the gems.

Stay Safe During DIY Roof Repair

November 20, 2019
DIY

Work Area

Make sure that your work area is clean and organized. It’s easier than you think to slip and fall because of a misplaced hammer or measuring tape. You’ll want to block your work area off from children and pets and identify possible danger zones before you get to work. This means locating unsafe access areas, dangerous power lines, and more. Also consider the temperature. You should never work in extreme elements. Very hot weather can lead to heat exhaustion and dehydration, while icy weather can lead to slick roof surfaces.

Falls

Preventing falls is obviously the main concern when performing roof repair. On average, six roofers die in the US every month from falls. There are ways to stay safe, however. First of all, never work on a wet roof, and keep your workspace as free of debris and tools as you possibly can. Make sure to wear safe footwear. Soft-soled boots provide great traction and are probably your best option. You’ll also want to protect yourself with a safety harness, net, guardrails, and other safety equipment. It might seem like a hassle, but it may save your life. Lastly, always make sure to wear your helmet and set up your ladder properly.

Electrical Safety

Electricity can actually “arc” or travel from a wire to a ladder located nearby. This is why ladder safety is so important. Make sure that your ladder is a non-conductive model made of wood or fiberglass when you’re working near wires. Never touch electrical wires with your hands or any tools. You should always call your local power company if you have to work close to wires. They can inspect them and insulate them if necessary to keep you safe as you work.

Material Handling

You’d be surprised how much material needs to be delivered during roofing repairs. Make sure to lift with your legs, not your back, to ensure that you don’t injure yourself. Be sure to carry your materials up one bundle at a time. If you’re carrying too much, you’ll overwork your body and be more likely to fall. Store your materials as close as possible to the roof – the less you have to travel, the less likely you are to fall.

Siding Efficiency

November 19, 2019
Home Improvement

This discovery should come as no surprise, as media outlets and activists all over have turned going green into a worldwide movement, making environmentalism a consistent aspect of our global political discourse. At the same time, homeowners are increasingly trying to figure out ways to keep their bills low in this recovering, but still shaky, economy. If you’ve tried all the tricks, and your monthly energy bill is still too high, there may be one big roadblock in your way: your siding is working against you.

The rise of suburban communities in the 20th century saw houses being constructed for more cost-efficiency. Building companies began experimenting with other materials like vinyl and aluminum. Although both offered the same amount of insulation, the vinyl technology was not yet fully developed. The vinyl aged quickly, slumping off of houses and often requiring replacement within years of installation. Aluminum, however, gained massive popularity for being cost efficient and low maintenance, eventually becoming one of the most common materials used in the ever-growing suburban America. Although many other options exist today, there are still millions of Americans and people all over the world who have aluminum siding on their home. It costs them thousands a year on their energy bill.

So what kind of siding offers the best value? Wood shingles and beveled wood will always be the most energy-efficient options, but these can be pricey and require consistent maintenance. Many homeowners are too busy and have been spread too thin financially to make it happen. Instead of wood, experts and critics favor a relatively new entrant: insulated vinyl. This new insulated material is less expensive than wood, requires minimal maintenance, and keeps structures more insulated. This means that homeowners are now not only getting the greatest possible value from their siding, but also from their AC and heating units. Insulated vinyl seems to be improving things for manufacturers as well, as they are now able to produce a much wider variety of colors than ever before. They are offering their customers greater customization and greater satisfaction.

So how do you know if it’s time to make the change from aluminum to a more energy-efficient material? Take two fingers and slide them across the material, and then look at your fingers. Are they covered in a chalky substance? If so, it means that your aluminum may be on its way out. Look into energy-efficiency levels of siding materials and determine which makes the most sense for you and your home. Whatever material you choose, you’ll be glad when you start to see the savings.

About Makrana Marble

November 18, 2019
Interior Design and Decorating

Derivation of Makrana marble

It is an entirely Indian marble. A small place named Makrana is the city of origin of this limestone. It is a small place but marble popularity made it a prominent place, and it delivers marble worldwide.

Within India, Makrana marble has proved its significance many times. It is done that by creating the world class and famous buildings in India. A few of them are Taj Mahal a monument that comes into one of the wonders of the world, Birla Mandir that is a beautiful temple made by using white marble from Makrana, Jain temple of Dilwara, Victoria Temple of Kolkata, etc. are a few more renowned names.

There are lots of mines situated in the Aravalli range, and other nearby areas. These are useful to extract marbles from them, and Makrana marble is one of the prominent ones. It has given employment to lots of people in nearby villages.

Top-notch uses

If you want to take advantage of the world-class marble, then you can employ the same at your house with the help of most excellent architects available. They can help you and design it in a flawless manner. Mainly it is used in flooring, and you can go with the similar use. It can also be used on walls as done by famous buildings but that should not pinch your pocket.

A range of varieties availability

Makrana marble is not limited to a single color, and it is available with plenty of variety. So, if you are planning to use it at your home or office, then there are various options available. It is durable if taken proper care that will let it stay for an elongated time. Therefore, it requires a one-time investment and can confer fabulous returns. So, whatever is your will to use marble in your house, you can do that appropriately.

Making a Wooden Gazebo

November 18, 2019
DIY

First off, you need to get a gazebo plan from an authentic and experienced provider to design your gazebo. Numerous websites offer such gazebo plans on the internet free of cost. Pick one plan according to your preference and the available space in your garden. Make sure you take the accurate measurements for all the wood pieces before starting the construction.

Buy pre-cut wood from your local hardware shop or cut the wood yourself. Many hardware shops will cut wooden pieces in case they do not have the pieces that fit the measurement you need. The measurement will entirely depend on the gazebo blueprint you have chosen for construction.

Once you have decided the place where you will be making your wooden gazebo, you can start measuring the area where the foundation of your gazebo will rest. Dig approximate 30-inch deep holes using a posthole auger where each of the posts will go. The number of posts will be equivalent to the number of sides. Generally, they are six or eight in number.

Place the wooden posts in the holes and use concrete to set them. Use a spirit level to make the posts even and level. Support them with braces in order to help them stay in position while the concrete dries. Let the concrete dry for at least 24 hours before moving ahead with the construction.

Install the deck by connecting the plank to the post with decking screws. Make each plank even. Install the center deck post and joints from the center to the outside planks to build the deck base. Level each joist and screw them up inside the frame planks. Add cross supports between the joists and install the deck floor.

Build a concrete slab to extend about 2 inches past the length and width of the staircase and keep it about 4 inches thick to get support from the base of the steps. Measure the distance from one post to another post on the opposite side of the octagon. Cut the roof rafters equal to half this distance.

Nail two opposite rafters to a center point of the roof. Lift the truss to the top of building with the help of ropes and place the truss in place. Nail the cap plates into the appropriate posts. Attach rest of the rafters to the center point and corresponding posts.

Climb up on the roof and install tongue and groove joints for covering the rafters. Install asphalt roofing shingles with short roofing nails. Attach the rail sections to the ground posts using screws for the outside of your gazebo.

Protect Home From Rain Water

November 17, 2019
Home Improvement
  • Sturdy roofing: If you install worn out or missing roofing materials for your home, the water will easily seep in and damage your house structure. Therefore, always consult with professionals for any roofing related services. Also, you should inspect your roofing twice every year, but if there is any severe storm you should always check your roofing. Look for molds or any water marks underneath your roof.
  • Exterior Paints: Run a quick check on your exterior paintings because heavy rainfalls are very dangerous for. If you find bubbling, cracking or peeling in your exterior paints, repaint the affected area with quality paint that has the tendency to resist water.
  • Foundation: Again, run a quick check the foundation. Repair all the cracks to avoid water from leaking into your home. First concentrate in the large cracks. They need immediate attention and repairing.
  • Basement: Now the next thing you need to inspect is the basement. If there is a water leakage, you will find signs of water seepage. Check your carpets for any wet spots. Don’t forget the corners. You can also sniff your walls for molds and mildews behind your walls. Take appropriate steps to remove all these unwanted things from your wall. Hire a professional if the problem is serious. Molds and mildews feed on your walls, and if they get inside your house, it can cause health problems. Call a professional pressure washing company to clean each and every corner of your house exteriors.
  • Gutters: You should always clean your gutters to eliminate any dirt or debris. Or else, the rain water will back up and damage your house again. Window ledge, decomposed boards and water leaking into your foundation or your basement are some of the common problems you will face with clogged gutters.
  • Downspouts: Lastly, check your downspouts to see where the water is being dumped. If your downspout is dumping water 5 feet, then use gutter damage to dump it further.

When taking care of your house in the raining season, do not ignore the damp on your outside walls otherwise, it will seep inside. Also, if you want to get your exteriors painted for before the monsoons, go for modified paints with silicon because they repel water and you can enjoy the weather worrying about your walls at least.

Build a Man Cave Bar

November 14, 2019
DIY

Materials and Tools for a DIY Man Cave Bar

  • 4×4 wooden posts
  • (12) 2×4 wooden boards
  • Fiberboard
  • Framing Square
  • Circular saw
  • Nails
  • Wood glue
  • Hammer
  • Drill
  • Paint
  • Tape measure

Directions for a DIY Man Cave Bar

  1. Side Frame Construction: The two side panels of the bar will be constructed from two short and two long boards. Using a circular saw, cut four of the 2×4 wooden boards to a length of 42 inches. The, cut four more 2×4 wooden boards to a length of 15 inches. Place the shorter 15 inch boards inside the larger 42 inch boards to create a rectangular frame. Secure the boards together using nails.
  2. Front Frame Construction: Using a circular saw, cut two more of the 2×4 wooden boards to a length of 42 inches and another two 2×4 wooden boards to a length of 84 inches. Again, place the shorter 42 inch boards inside the larger 84 inch boards and secure them with nails to create rectangular frames.
  3. Cut and Prepare Side and Front Panels: Begin by measuring the dimensions of each side panel. Using a table saw cut a piece of fiberboard to cover each of the side panels. Then, measure and cut an additional piece of fiberboard to cover the front panel. Attach the fiberboard initially with wood glue, followed by nailing the pieces together.
  4. Bar Assembly: Using two 4×4 posts, connect the front panel to the two side panels. The posts should be cut to a length of 42 inches. Begin by positioning the first side panel and the front panel at a 45 degree angle with one of the posts. Toenail the post and panels together to form the corner of the bar. Repeat this process to attach the remaining side panel.
  5. Create and Install the Bar Top: Using the remaining fiberboard, cut a piece for the bar top that measures slightly larger than the dimensions of the bar itself. Using wood glue on the underside of the fiberboard, attached the board to the top of the bar frame and fasten to the side and front panels using nails.
  6. Paint and Decorate Your New Bar: Once the bar is constructed, it is time to decorate and paint it! Consider using your team’s colors and even incorporating other team memorabilia to make the overall Man Cave look inviting and cohesive.

 

Maintenance for Asphalt Pavement

November 14, 2019
Home Improvement

Asphalt Maintenance

Although pavement maintenance agendas will differ from property to property, the overall purpose of asphalt maintenance is to sustain its appeal and extend its life. Some paving maintenance tasks can be managed on your own or by an appointed staff, such as inspections and trash clearance; while others are best left in the hands of trained and equipped professionals. An ideal pavement maintenance should include basic tasks like regular assessments, sweeping, crack filling, pothole repair, periodic line striping, and most importantly, seal coating. Without a proper sealcoat, asphalt pavements will experience heightened wear and tear from traffic, weather, chemicals, salts, and more, which shortens their life and diminishes their aesthetic value.

Asphalt Seal Coating

Seal coats are emulsions that are brushed or sprayed onto pavements, providing a clear protective layer against moisture and the above-mentioned threats. There are several types of commercial sealcoats available on the market, but the most popular versions include fog seal, slurry seal, and chip seal emulsions. Some sealcoat products are water-based, which are easier and safer to spread. But there are also waterless versions that use organic or plant-based oils or hydrocarbon solvents instead.

Choosing to Seal Coat

If your asphalt pavement is old and in poor condition, it will not likely benefit from a new layer of seal coat. In some cases, it is more cost-effective to repair or replace deteriorated asphalt pavements instead. However, if your asphalt is in good condition, a periodic re-sealing can be a highly-beneficial maintenance decision. Talk to your trusted paving contractor for a professional recommendation of your asphalt’s maintenance and sealcoating schedule. They will know exactly what your property needs and at what intervals. The cost of having your asphalt seal-coated will depend on several factors, such as the square footage, the condition of pavement, and any additional surface applications needed.

Sufficient Sub Floor Ventilation

November 12, 2019
Home Improvement

Due to the various activities that take place in the home, moisture is bound to build up in the air. When this air cools down, condensation takes place and water droplets form on cold surfaces such as the walls and windows. The accumulation of water droplets in the home causes it to become damp. The damp surfaces become a breeding ground for mould and if the home has structural supports made from timber, they can rot and get damaged. The supports will then have to be replaced which can be costly.

When there is an accumulation of moisture on your under floor, this moisture can get absorbed by the floor of your home. If this floor is made from timber, it will end up expanding due to the moisture. This will cause the timber to lift up and your floor will become uneven. Termites are also attracted to moist areas and can cause serious damage to the timber on your sub floor.

Mould spreads very fast in moist surfaces and can cause breathing problems, chest pains and you can even end up developing asthma. Dust mites are also attracted to damp areas and you can develop eczema when they land on your skin. The dangers of having too much moisture on your under floor can be life threatening and you should therefore ensure that you have sufficient sub floor ventilation.

Once you have sufficient ventilation on your under floor, your health will be much better as you will breathe in fresh clean air that is free from fungal spores and other allergens. Pests such as termites will no longer be attracted to your home, and you will not have to deal with rats and cockroaches which are also attracted to damp areas. Fungal decay of the timber in your under floor will not occur and the structure of your home will be intact.

You also have the option of installing vents around your under floor that are in a color which will make your home look attractive. As long as you use vents which are resistant to corrosion such as brass vents, there will be no cost of maintenance. If you need to install fans to have adequate sub floor ventilation, you can use the ones which have a timer which will reduce the cost of running them.

Tips to Beat Summer Heat

November 11, 2019
DIY

  • Use fans. Even if your home is air conditioned turning on fans for ceiling fans will make your home feel cooler as the air circulates.
  • Keep plastic water bottles in the freezer. Then, just grab and go. As they thaw, you’ll have a cold, refreshing drink.
  • Hydrate, hydrate hydrate. Speaking of water, you can’t drink too much of it. Avoid caffeine and alcohol as they promote dehydration. Stick to water or sports drinks or other sources of electrolytes.
  • Put your lotions in the frig. That’s right – think about storing lotions and cosmetic toners in the refrigerator. They’re perfect for hot, tired feet
  • Change you eating habits. Instead of hot foods, try lighter summer fare and have small meals or snacks more frequently. Cool fruit should be a summer favorite. You’ll feel lighter and cooler and you don’t have to stand by a hot stove.
  • Cool your head to cool your body. If you’re outside exercising, take off your cap, put a little cold water in it and quickly invert it back on your head. Refreshing!
  • Be especially careful to guard babies and the elderly from overheating. They will dehydrate easily and are more susceptible to heat-related illness. Make sure they’re cool and comfortable.
  • Get your house ready for the summer. Clean blinds and shades and plan on using them. Keep your home a little dimmer and cooler. Have your air conditioning service done by a pro so you know it can keep up with the summer heat and you can avoid a breakdown on a hot summer day. Be sure to keep the A/C filters clean by changing them once a month so your air conditioning unit runs at its peak efficiency.