Contemporary Bathroom Design - Remember These Tips!

Contemporary lifestyle has been seen with high-tech gadgets, devices, equipments, and contemporary structural designs. The bathroom naturally has not escaped this phenomenon, be it in the household, commercial establishments, and buildings and offices. Contemporary bathroom design has been in evidence, making way to pieces of bathroom essentials completely inspired with styles and essences presented by the modern times.

If you are planning to have such design, there are a variety of factors that you have to remember. Everything is to be considered because if you trip along the way, everything would be useless. This is the reason why it is important to include the service of a professional designer to ensure everything is taken cared of and put into the right places. It does not only include the kinds of furniture, equipments, essentials and small items, and others that are needed in the bathroom. It involves structural considerations, as together with practical matters to boot.

Here are some tips that will help you materialize that plans:

Get a bath that is placed as the center of the bathroom. Different types of baths that can be used for contemporary designs have been in proliferation. Choices include baths that are made of stone, stone composites, marble, and wood. You can have a bath mounted on blocks or in a cradle. Or have it surrounded with timber or tiles. Either way, it constitutes a modernized feel that will surely increase resale value of your home.

Choose a basin that is wide, has shallow design, or why not irregularly shaped one? Insert it into a work surface, or have it wall mounted. Shelves or towel storage units can be added below the basin. For a more contemporary feel, add it with lacquered or dark wood cabinets, chrome taps and edgings, and other accessories.

Bold brassware pieces can be added. Bold, angular, satin or matte finished taps and showerheads are great for creating a contemporary feel. Shiny brassware is not recommended for this purpose as it easily wears out causing it to get marked and dulled over time.

Other aspects to be focused on are the walls and furniture. Dark wood, mahogany, and ebony are perfect to contrast with chrome and stainless steel fittings. On the other hand, tiles designed with porcelain and limestone looks are a very popular choice for the contemporary look.

For bathroom design ideas, visit http://www.bathroomdesignideas101.com

Let A Whirlpool Bath Take Your Stress And Pain Away

Hydrotherapy is a wonderful way to relax the body and mind, and it has beneficial effects on a number of health ailments. Today there are more affordable options of hydrotherapy available than ever before and you can enjoy all the benefits in your home with a modern whirlpool bath.

Enjoy the H5B4ealth Benefits of Hydrotherapy

A whirlpool bath uses the principles of hydrotherapy to help ease stress, respiratory ailments and aching muscles and joints. In a whirlpool bath, jets of water and air create streams of bubbles that ripple their way around the body, providing a soothing, massage effect.

Also the water jets are positioned to give the main muscle groups the most effective treatment and as you lay in the bath, you can vary the intensity with a simple dial or switch control.

Whirlpool baths come in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit different sizes of bathroom. The choices of whirlpool baths available include conventional, straight-sided baths, corner baths, offset baths, baths large enough for two people and compact seated version that you can walk into.

The Ultimate Relaxing Sensory Experience - A session in a whirlpool bath can give you a wonderfully relaxing experience and some baths add to this experience with atmospheric underwater LED lights. Turn on the lights and as the whirling water illuminates, a wonderfully magical and soothing effect is created. Soft, moving lights such as these provide an incredible sensory experience just perfect for relaxation. Add a few drops of essential oil to your water and you can heighten the experience even more. As you lie back in a whirlpool bath, resting your head on a padded 5B4waterproof pillow will help you position your body in the water jets. It will also give you extra comfort so you can get the most from your hydrotherapy session.

Built With Safety in Mind - Good whirlpool baths will have been designed and built with safety in mind. Here are some of the things to look out for when you are choosing your bath:

Does the bath have a water level safety sensor? If the water level is below the water jets the water level safety sensor will prevent the jets from turning on. This feature protects the electrical water pump and keeps it working at its optimum.

Does it have a thermostatic control? Many whirlpools have a built-in thermostatic valve that will keep the circulating water at a consistent temperature and avoid sudden fluctuations. This is a useful feature for those with more sensitive skin such as the elderly and young children.

Is there a Residual Current Device (RCD)? This device detects any imbalance of electrical currents. If it does detect an imbalance, the RCD will automatically switch the electric off, protecting both the bather and the bath. When it comes to hygiene, regular use of a whirlpool bath cleanser will extend the life of your bath and keep it working at its best. When you choose your bath, remember to ask your whirlpool specialist what is the best cleanser to use.

Finally, whirlpool baths do offer wonderful healing benefits, but as with all methods of healing4C1, if you are receiving treatment from your doctor you should seek advice about the benefits for you. Hydrotherapy, including the use of whirlpool baths, may not be suitable for pregnant women and those receiving treatment for kidney ailments or high blood pressure. It's always best to check first and then you can relax in total peace of mind, knowing that the whirling waters are good for you.

Andy Tub is a retired bathroom plumber based in North West England. From his Wigan home he writes of his passion for bathroom installations, including new bathroom furniture and bathroom technologies

Basement Renovation

A finished basement can be a great place where you can entertain your family and friends by putting in a recreation room which includes a pool table, ping pong table, pinball machine, and/or dartboard.

Before a basement renovation you should:

1. Look for basement foundation cracks. Hairline cracks in the basement can be the fault of improper curing where as large cracks are most likely caused by settling. Both can be repaired with hydraulic cement if the crack is not active i.e. whatever caused the crack is no longer an existing problem. If the basement crack is still active then the crack patching may be re-opened later.

2. Look for basement moisture problems. Moisture problems may be tough to fix. Water is persistent and can make its way through the basement walls that are considered permeable. An easy way to test water problems is to tape a piece of aluminum foil to various places on the basement walls and floors. Seal the edges of the foil tightly and leave in place for several days. After several days, if moisture droplets appear beneath the foil then moisture is going through the basement masonry. If the moisture appears on top of the foil, the problem is condensation from basement humidity. Look for other water problems by looking in the underside of the basement's first subflooring for signs of leaks. Fix any faulty pipes and fixtures. Look for brownish stains on the basement subfloor and sides of the basement joists. This will indicate active or an old leak that has been repaired. If the stain is spongy, an active leak exists.

Basement renovation planning is key to the success of your basement. For instance, if you decide you want a wetbar and/or bathroom, you will need to have the plumbing done first. This would be a top priority because the plumbing usually goes beneath the cement floor. After the plumbing is completed, you need to plan and install the electric which may include hiring a certified electrician. Your plans shou1015ld include enough electrical outlets, telephone lines and cable hook-ups. These will be used for your television(s), lamp(s), computer(s), electronic games, and a computer modem. Once installed, you must decide on paneling, dry walling, or painting to cover your cement walls. Although paneling might be cheaper, the refined look of drywall makes it the material of choice for finished spaces. Paneling can look dated and does not always last long.

The next phase in your plans should be the stairwell. Some professionals suggest you should open up the stairwell and install a banister because a basement typically features stairwells that are enclosed. By opening up the basement stairwell you remove some of the basement like atmosphere. Some designers would like to see the doorways of the basement widened and employ arches and columns to dress them up. Examples include French Doors for privacy or a partial separator using decorative glass to add elegance to the basement room.

When looking at windows, if applicable, add as many as you can. Basements tend to be dark and gloomy but with more natural light it becomes a better and well lit area. If windows are very limited, look into security and use glass block windows. When it comes to artificial lighting, the choices are fluorescent lights, table lights, floor lamps and ceiling lights. If your budget allows, stay away from the fluorescent lighting since it is not the most appealing in design.

When installing the ceiling, stay away from suspended ceilings because they make the basement look like a basement. Consider using tray ceilings. When choosing the color for painting, use a light, bright, or dramatic color scheme. With these colors, you can turn that dark gloomy basement into a room that opens and brightens.

The basement floor is always cold since it is in direct contact with the ground. Look at having a subfloor between the concrete and flooring space. This will make it a warmer and dryer living area and a smooth surface for your carpet or flooring of your choosing. If a subfloor is not in your plans and you are using carpet, get plenty of padding to put under the carpet. Try to have a storage room added, maybe around the sump and furnace area. This would be convenient for all those things that can't be thrown out. Think about adding shelves to this room to keep it fairly organized.

To control noise, have thick wall to wall carpeting and a high quality pad can absorb much of the sound. You can use sound deadening material below any underlayment or subfloor. This is nice especially if the basement is used for a bedroom or office. An easy way to reduce noise is by installation of thick insulation between ceiling joists.

In below-ground basement renovations, should you want to add a kitchen or bath you can tie into the plumbing system that is in place above. You can buy toilets and lavatories that are specifically designed for below grade applications.

After your basement renovation are complete, start adding the "toys" that will make it an enjoyable area where you get away from it all.

Keith Hoyng is the web master and operator of http://www.quickcash2u.com which is a good source of information for remodeling and much more information. Visit this site at http://www.quickcash2u.com/basementremodeling.html

What Green Building Means

There's a lot of talk in real estate about green building lately, but the phrase is still a little vague. Here's a guide to understanding a few key terms, so you can investigate whether or not a potential home is truly eco-friendly.

Insulation and Building:
Many new buildings are being insulated with recycled materials, such as old blue jeans or blown-in fiberglass. Proper insulation now goes a long way toward saving on energy bills later. Walls can be made of steel and concrete, rather than more expensive and volatile treated wood. Many cities have lumber yards and "re-stores" where you can buy recycled or left over building materials that are strong, cheap, and often antique or authentically vintage.

Appliances:
Look for low flow shower heads and low flush or composting toilets. Consider energy saving washers and dryers, or put a line in your yard to hang wet clothes on sunny days Make sure your HVAC unit is sealed and clean, and look for gas stoves and instantaneous, or tankless, water heaters.

Flooring:
Rather than use expensive hardwoods that endanger the land and deplete forests, many real estate builders have found inexpensive and beautiful alternatives in bamboo (which is technically not a wood but a grass, and yet one of the hardest and most easily replenished flooring materials) and cork (also easily replenished). Concrete, too, can be a sturdy and inexpensive alternative, as can old fashioned linoleum, which is actually made from linen and other natural fibers.

Paint and Other Materials:
Many paint manufacturers are looking for green alternatives to oil and latex; one such option is the use of milk-based paints (which upon application smell like milk instead of harsh chemicals, and which don't have any carcinogenic ingredients.) Recycled glass is now being made into kitchen and bath tiles, and countertops are being made with recycled materials that look even more beautiful and unique than mined granite.

Solar Energy:
Solar energy doesn't just mean expensive panels that sit on your roof (though that's one kind, called active Solar Energy). Considering a solar home can mean investing in thick-paned, glazed windows or in more complicated photovoltaic cells. Though solar tends to be an expensive investment, upfront, the rewards show up every month in your energy bills.

Landscaping:
Look for Xeriscaped yards and common areas with plants that require little watering. Consider getting rain barrels (many cities sell them through their water and energy programs) or converting your outdoor water system to "graywater" (which involves using recycled water from dishwashers and washing machines to water your lawn or wash your car). Looks for trees that are native to your area, and plant them so they shield your windows from too much sun during hotter days.

Neighborhood:
While a lot of green building means being aware of what is going into your home, you might also want to check out your neighborhood. Are there recycling programs or community gardens? Public transportation? Bike paths so you can have the option of avoiding traffic? Are there shops and restaurants close to you, to encourage walking? While thinking about these things may seem unimportant now, our global climate and community with thank you later. (Oh, and don't forget the federal tax deductions.)

If you are looking for property in the Austin Texas Real Estate market Ki Gray can help you in your search. A broker with a long background of helping clients in the Austin market. His site Escapeso Austin Texas Real Estate is a source for information about the real estate market and current events in Austin Texas. It also provides a description of the different Austin Condos going up in downtown Austin.

Simple Bathroom Remodeling

Bathrooms are used by all guests and can be a major influence or distraction when a house is on the market. Giving the bathroom at least the appearance of being updated ad1C84ds good value to your home and makes you feel better.

Here are some simple tips and changes you can make:

1. Get the wallpaper out of there! Usually, wallpaper makes a bathroom look smaller and, if it is "dated," it has to go. Use good quality paint and put up a border - great new look for minimum cost!

2. An old bathtub is a killer! If it is still operational but grungy and chipped, consider a re-glazing. Hire a professional to do this, because it is difficult. Re-glazing is much less expensive than a whole new tub. And, if you buy a new faucet unit, you immediately give the impression of a brand new unit.

3. Improve by getting a new vanity. If you have a large bathroom with a storage closet, try a pedestal sink - there are terrific choices out there with great new materials and phenomenal faucet units. Cracked, "dated," stained sinks are really "turn-offs" to prospective buyers. If your bathroom is cramped, don't add to it with any new furniture or storage pieces on the floor. How about the space above your toilet? Chances are it's a bare wall. Instead of getting a cheap unit that strides the toilet, go to a warehouse outlet and get a nice cabinet to mount to the wall. Between that and a vanity, there is no reason for any of your toilet articles to be cluttering the sink or toilet tops.

4. Get some new towel rods! There are great styles at any discount store, and the difference will be amazing.

5. Some decorating hints: You know those fluffy little rugs that go around the base of the toilet? Dump them! Not only are they disgusting (think about what you may be putting your feet on), they are totally dated. Get a small circular or rectangular throw rug and wear slippers if your feet get cold on the floor! When exploring shower curtains, don't go "cheap." A classy, well-made curtain is a good investment. Pictures are good in bathrooms so long as they do not crowd the space. Find light, airy ones without bathroom themes. Nice landscapes and other outdoor scenes will "enlarge" your space.

6. A word about Flooring in the bathroom: Ceramic tile bathroom floors are quite nice and easily cleaned, provided you have sealed the grout, this is very important in bathrooms. If your room is small, do not use the 12" square tiles - they are too big. Use 9" or even 6" tiles - they will give the room a larger look. Vinyl's are fine to, but get a good quality. Wood laminates work well in bathrooms, so long as everyone understands that any standing water must be mopped up - leaving it on the floor will cause warping and damage. Plus, if you should have an overflow problem, you must understand that water can seep under the flooring and create problem underneath.

If you shop discount warehouses and are willing to put in a little of your own muscle, these are quick, easy, and inexpensive "fixes."

For more home decorating ideas take a look at these tips on decorating ideas for toddler rooms and how to get the most out of your space

Building a Concrete Driveway: DIY Tips for the Budget Conscious Homeowner

Building a concrete driveway is one of those rare options that can satisfy most people's practical and aesthetic concerns. Concrete driveways are not only built to last long but are appealing to the eye at the same time. Granted, they may take a bit of time to build properly, because none of your efforts will feel wasted once you view your final product.

What Not to Forget When Building a Concrete Driveway

Building Codes in Your Area - It's possible, especially if you're living in the suburbs, or belong to a certain community, that driveway specifications may be subjected to certain community rules. Your village, for instance, may prefer for all houses to have similar looking driveways, regardless of the material used. Or, it's the choice of material that's subjected to certain restrictions. To avoid wasting time and money, do your homework and see if building a concrete driveway will result to any violation.

Put Your Plans in Paper - Before getting your still-unused carpentry and building tools and donning your DIY uniform, it's best to put your plans on paper and try sketching the dimensions of your proposed concrete driveway. Make sure that you scale your drawing properly to gain accurate results, and most especially if you've decided not to hire an expert to help you out.

If you don't know how to draw, please please please ask someone to do it for you. Don't be stubborn like other homeowners who insist on doing everything themselves, never mind the consequences.

Submit the Necessary Requirements - Once you've become satisfied with the projected appearance of your concrete driveway, make time to submit the necessary requirements in order for the housing committee in your area to grant approval for your concrete driveway plans. It's possible that they'll be concerned with how your neighbors would feel once the noise of construction reaches their ears; to avoid any future altercations with your neighbors, make sure that you politely and nicely inform them of your plans. Gaining written permission from them won't hurt either!

Going Shopping - With the legal stuff done, the next thing to do is what women love to do best: going shopping! If any woman in your household is a genuine shopaholic, she wouldn't mind accompanying you in your buying quest, even if it's just a trip to the local hardware store.

To save on time and money, make a list of the things you have to buy, compare product reviews, and see what brands are of superior quality but affordable at the same time. As for tools and other equipment, consider either buying them second hand, renting, or borrowing from your neighbors or friends.

Excavation and Base Preparation - The pre-construction stage is over, and it's now time to do backbreaking stuff. First in the list is excavation and base preparation. Like most structures, excavating and preparing a base is required to give your concrete driveway a solid Foundation. It's best to take your time when doing this because one little mistake related to the Foundation can cause the whole thing to collapse.

Building the Driveway - Once you've finished with the Foundation, it's now time to build the skeletal part of the driveway itself. Always consult your handmade blueprint while building the driveway to ensure that you've done everything correctly and according to the measurements you've specified.

Sealing it with a Concrete Kiss - Once you're done with the frame, it's now time to apply the concrete and wait for it to harden.

Finishing Touches - Backfill and provide enhancements for the landscape.

Pros and Cons of Using a Concrete Driveway Benefits - Concrete driveways can be decorated in various ways, making it more easy to use as a complement to the house itself. It is also easier to clean during winter. Concrete driveways can also be sealed right after installation. Cons - Concrete driveways, however, are more expensive than asphalt driveways and require a higher degree of care and maintenance. Lastly, concrete driveways cannot be relayered.

Choosing to build a concrete driveway is a good decision to make in most cases, but of course, it's what the homeowner feels that counts the most. Just remember that when making a driveway, always choose a material that won't crack under the weight of a ten-wheeler truck but enhance the appearance of your house as well!

Lee Dobbins writes for http://concrete.subjectmonster.com where you can learn more about the wonders of concrete.

Home Improvement - Green Design for Remodeling Projects

Homeowners are going green and saving money with energy-conserving solutions and practical eco-friendly home products. Examples include energy-efficient appliances and furniture made from rapidly renewable resources, wall coverings made from 100 percent post- and pre-consumer waste paper, and water-saving shower heads.

Green design is an important element for homeowners to keep in mind as they consider a remodeling project. Green design reduces the impact on the environment and saves resources, and promotes a healthy lifestyle free of toxic materials and allergies. The increasing availability of new technology, innovative products and efficient materials is making it easier to achieve a green home.

Following are a few ideas for homeowners looking to incorporate green products and materials into their homes:

Appliances. Choose high-efficiency water heaters, low-flow toilets and shower heads, faucet aerators, energy- and water-efficient appliances. Also consider bulk-product dispensers for body care products.

1699Flooring. Reuse existing flooring and sub flooring when possible. For new floors, look at flooring made from natural or rapidly renewable materials. To refinish wood floors, use safe processes with green and safe materials. Don't use carpeting in high moisture areas or where spills could occur. Consider area rugs instead of wall-to-wall carpeting.

Lighting. Supplement natural light with efficient electric lighting like compact fluorescent bulbs.

Paint. Use low or zero volatile organic compound (VOC) paints, finishes, adhesives, grouts, caulking and sealants.

Furnishings. Choose cabinetry and other furnishings made from recycled or reclaimed materials. Select compact furniture that incorporates storage. Consider reused, salvaged or antique furniture.

Water usage. Conserve water usage and set water heater temperatures no higher than necessary.

Green design is about improving your home and ensuring a better tomorrow for yourself, your family and your world. When remodeling your home, make it smart and sustainable to improve your quality of life for years to come.

Hilary Basile is a writer for MyGuidesUSA.com. At http://www.myguidesusa.com, you will find valuable tips and resources for handling life's major events. Whether you're planning a wedding, buying your first home, anxiously awaiting the birth of a child, contending with a divorce, searching for a new job, or planning for your retirement, you'll find answers to your questions at MyGuidesUSA.com.

Find home improvement tips and resources at http://homeimprovement.myguidesusa.com/