Radiant Floor Heat

Radiant floor heat has been around for a while, yet many have never heard of it. Our first inclination is to simply explain the system and how it works.

Radiant floor heating systems heat a living space from the ground up. They achieve this by either electric or hydronic heating systems that they incorporate in a concrete slab or they install them dry beneath your flooring.

The electric radiant floor is normally installed during the original construction of a home, but that doesn’t mean you can’t install them elsewhere. Electrical heating strips or mats are laid in patterns across the floor and are embedded in a thin layer of concrete. These strips or mats heat the concrete that will then radiate heat into the living area, and is the most comfortable heating system available.

The hydronic radiant heating systems are more efficient than the electrical ones. They install them at the time of new construction, in any type of concrete whether thick or thin. A thicker slab absorbs more heat and is rarely affected by open doors from the outside. Hot water is pumped through a series of pipes that are laid underneath the floor.

The difference between dry and wet radiant floor heat systems is simple, but strategic. They install the wet radiant floor heat systems at the time of new construction. While wet radiant floor heat systems you may not be able to install more concrete, but you will be able to use the dry radiant systems. They can be installed anywhere under any flooring system.

When you add solar to your radiant floor heat you eliminate the need to add a fuel based heating system and the radiant floor heat rises to provide comfort to every member of your family. The systems don’t spread dust or allergens, they don’t dry the air, they don’t lose heat like their alternatives.

If you’re still in doubt, and are considering the radiant floor heat system, check with a contractor that specializes in the installation of radiant floor heat. Whether you’re building a new home or installing them in your pre-existing structure, the contractor will be able to answer all of your questions and tell you if the systems are an attractive substitute for your existing heating methods.

It’s a fact! Radiant floor heating systems compared with other heating options including gas furnaces, boilers, electric baseboard or even wood stoves, they provide the most consistent comfortable heating solutions. You’ll set your thermostat much lower because the heat starts below the floor and heats appropriately.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in Orange County home remodeling, Mission Viejo home improvement and Orange County contractors.

New windows For Your Home? Go Green

When it comes to green products most people think of things like cleaning products and those items made with natural resources by environmentally friendly means. Green items can be found just about anywhere from the supermarket to a private residence. What many people do not immediately realize however is that many parts of a home are often "green".

Of all things in a home that can be green within a home it is perhaps windows that are the most overlooked. Many people are often surprised to learn that windows are now being made green though they've been around for a number of years. In sharp contrast to old-fashioned windows, green windows can help a homeowner dramatically reduce energy costs and better control the internal climate of their home. Whereas traditional windows will heat up a home during the summer time and allow heat to escape during the wintertime, green windows are made to be extremely energy efficient and are designed to help keep homes comfortable year-round.

In addition to energy savings and better climate control, homeowners who find themselves apprehensive about buying green windows due to installation costs needn't worry. Regardless of whether a homeowner is having traditional windows installed or green windows installed installation costs remain the same. While it's true green windows cost a little bit more than traditional windows do, there will be no additional costs incurred during installation.

Perhaps the most advantageous aspect of going green with a homes windows comes in not saving dollars and cents on energy bills but the long-term effect they have on a home and its occupants. Homeowners should remember when shopping for new windows that those of the green type are not only energy-efficient but they also create a healthier environment, require far less maintenance than traditional windows do, and are constructed for maximum comfort and quality. Of course there's also the added benefit of increased resale value that comes along with installing green windows though this is usually a secondary thought for the majority of homeowners how purchase them.

Another advantage in selecting green windows for a home is that homeowners will have a multitude of different glass choices and styles to choose from. When selecting more traditional windows there are fewer choices and all of all of them are inferior to green windows. Homeowners can select from windows such as multiple pane, low e windows, low conductivity frames, and even windows that reduce the need for artificial lighting. There are so many advantages that come along with having green windows installed in a home that it makes it hard to justify purchasing more traditional or old-fashioned windows when that need or desire arises.

Legendary Windows and Doors Specializes in Orange County windows, Orange County green windows and window replacement Orange County.

Preparing Your Guest Room for Guests

Whenever you find that guests are coming, whether it’s in one day or two months, time will be the ultimate decision maker. When you have only a few hours to prepare, do the essentials, and leave the heavy stuff for later when time allows it.

The very first thing you’ll want to do to a room that has been closed for months or even years, is to open the windows and doors. No matter the weather. Air it out. However if that is not an option, at the very least buy and use an air freshener. Take the bedspread, pillows and blankets and air them out as well, preferably outside.

Wash everything that’s washable, and allow the time necessary for drying. If the last person to live in the room is your college student; remove all posters, unsuitable pictures and other paraphernalia suitable for a teenager, but not your guests. Then take a broom, vacuum cleaner and duster into the room and clean it from top to bottom. Look for spider webs and dust on pictures and mirrors and don’t forget to clean under the bed.

Clean the mirrors and windows with a window cleaner, and shine to bring them to a luster. If no mirror is in the room, provide either a full-length mirror or a hand held mirror. Clean out the closet and at least a couple of drawers. Your guests will have luggage, and clothes that need hanging so make sure there are hangers available.

If they’re staying for any length of time, they will need empty drawers as well. Don’t neglect the bathroom they will use. They need nice clean towels and wash cloths available only to them. Many guests bring their own personal items, but it would be helpful if you have available a few items such as a new toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, conditioner, and body lotion.

A lock on the door would also be nice and would make the person feel safe.

If your situation doesn’t meet any of those needs, consider packing in boxes those items not necessary for their visit. Store them in other areas in your home or in attics, basements, or garages.

You may not want them to be too comfortable, but if you want your guest to be happy and content in the room you provide, sleep in the room. You’ll see what your guest sees. Some prefer to give their guests their own room. Then no one sleeps because you and your guests are all in a strange bed.

Most importantly provide a nice quiet place for your guest and show that you made the necessary preparations for their visit.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in Orange County home remodeling, Mission Viejo home improvement and contractors in Orange County.

Great Rooms Are Great

Great rooms are great and many times in bygone days, the rooms were kept for company only, while the family crowded into smaller rooms. Today however, many are encouraged to put the great rooms to good use and to move the family into them where every member has his own space.

Another word for the great room is family room or possibly even a den. But great rooms have a great sound so let’s just focus on those. If there is a fireplace in the great room, it becomes greater, and there is no better place for the warmth of a fireplace on a cold winter night.

When a kitchen is at one end of the great room, it is all the more complete. A table where members of the family can sit to eat, do homework, play games, pay bills, and the room becomes a true multi-purpose room. Yet each member of the family can be doing all of those things at the same time without encroaching on others space.

To achieve that, it may be best to have the television set at one end away from the study areas where concentration is needed. As you contemplate what every member wants and desires you’ll in all probability find other uses for the room. Exercise equipment in the same room would be an encouragement for everyone in the family to take their turn; built in bookcases come in handy when students need to research information.

If there is a huge span between the ages of the family, you’ll find one member can help the younger ones, even if one is a baby or toddler. When the entire family pitches in where the objective is to share the fun times and the work, the family grows closer.

Another attraction for a great room would be a large window or patio door where the family could move outside to enjoy the warm summer nights. That would make the extension of the great room to include more family time.

To have a special night where the entire family can watch a movie or special television show, the family also laughs and cries together. The great room becomes greater, much better than when a T.V. or computer is in every bedroom and each member spends a lot of time alone. Families should grow together and there is no better place than a great room. It is much easier to have the laws for the room started early in their lives.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in Orange County home remodeling, Mission Viejo home improvement and contractors in Orange County.

Green Natural Slate Roofing

You’ll never find a better roof than green natural slate roofing because it requires minimal processing to make it into roofing. It is also long lasting with low maintenance and is perfect when you consider going green. The green roof reflects cheaper energy bills.

When you install radiant heat barriers that are thin layers of metal insulation (tinfoil with a paper backing or Mylar sheeting), that can reduce radiant heat transfer into your attic by almost 95 percent when the heat barriers are installed to the underside of your roof. Rainwater catch systems are other ways you can save water for landscaping purposes by installing a rainwater catch system.

Those energy savings are good, but the environment stewardship is the very best of any green roofing project. Slate is a natural product and when you follow a few simple rules you take it to the next level.

Reclaimed slate when the slate has been used in older slate roofs many times can be reclaimed and reused. When you find the reclaimed slate you may also have to search for a contractor familiar with slate.  When you do your roof will be at the top of roofing materials Green natural slate roofing lasts many years beyond normal roofing, and when you find an old slate roof, take care in dismantling it and recycle it instead of sending it to the landfill. Always try to find slate locally because of the high cost in transporting it.

The only thing a slate roof needs to be installed is the slate and nails. Both are healthy as roof materials unlike petroleum based roofing materials and common roofing adhesives that can give off harmful volatile organic compounds. Those compounds drift into the air around your home and last for many months and possibly years.

Hire an experienced slate roofer because slate requires skill and experience to install and repair. A green natural slate roof can last for 100 years with little or no maintenance. Steep sloped roofs use the slate roof to its best advantage, and the air in an attic should be ventilated.

Slate roofs are not cheap, but with the correct ventilation and installation, it will last for years to come. You can’t really measure cost in dollars and cents, and when you consider the environment your green natural slate roof will add many dollars to the value of your home.

If saving our environment is important to you, and many don’t believe the cost is that essential, but what is important is that you will be doing your part to save our planet.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in Orange County home remodeling, Mission Viejo home improvement and contractors in Orange County.

Create a New Haven in Your Home

When your home is in relatively good condition, you may only want to change the color scheme, and create a stunning new haven. You can do that with the subtle use of paint. Colors that never would have been included in a home are now available with touches like burnt orange and ruby red paint that wakes up the drabbest room.

Whether those colors simply don’t match in your mind, you will be surprised at the combination of colors many designers use. They use stripes, triangles and even squares to bring one area of a room separate from the rest. The bright matching colors on pillows and throws will make themselves at home within your realm.

There are many reasons someone would want to change the appearance of a room without major remodeling, and even though paint is expensive, it pales when you compare those renovations and additions. However to achieve the professional’s touch, you may want to invest in someone where they reinvigorate one room or an entire home.

The new creation of that haven in your home will have new energy and will speak of individualism, yours. When you spend a great deal of time in one room, say a home office, you’ll want the room to have your tastes, but when your tastes are as drab as the room, you may want to undergo a new more modern approach.

A professional will make that happen, and in a relatively short time. In all probability they will not stop with paint. They may want you to invest in new recessed lighting, or simply stand alone modern lights. A new floor whether wood, tile, or that new stamped concrete will bring your room into top-notch reliability. It you receive customers into your home office, you will want that effect.

When you spend the greatest part of a day in a room, you should design it with proper colors. Pale blue or yellow in a bedroom will be soothing, while more vibrant colors in your kid’s room will work as well. Even though the kid’s in college, they’ve left home, and rarely return for any length of time. So change that room without their permission or their opinion. It’s no longer theirs, and you can now take advantage of extra rooms in your home.

They’ll be shocked and possibly a little jealous when their childhood room is no longer available. Be drastic, change is good. Change will help you, and everything you do to improve your living space will be for your own good.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in Orange County home remodeling, Mission Viejo home improvement and contractors in Orange County.

The Many Faces of Peat

If you’ve used Peat Moss in your gardening chores, you may be unaware of the many uses of peat. Peat moss is cultivated and harvested to produce highly efficient and environmentally friendly substances.  However, it was used in the past to treat wounds in hospitals, whether they still use that method is debatable.

Today it acts as a filter in a relative new way – in septic systems. In the same way it is used to perfect landscaping, it works as a filter in the sewage system, and will need to be replaced every six years or so.

Such diverse uses, and still the top seller, peat moss, prepares the soil for planting everything from grass, vegetable gardens, trees, flowers and shrubs.

They use it primarily as a soil additive and it takes sand and turns it into productive healthy soil. A natural organic additive it will make the roots stronger and produce the desired effect on the final product.

When your landscaper tills it into the top inches of existing soil, the soil is transformed into productive, healthy soil. Regardless where you live, peat moss will improve your entire landscaped property.

Peat moss holds at least 20 times its weight in moisture and will cut down the amount of water needed. Because of its absorbency it will prevent nutrients and fertilizers from leaching out of your soil. It also breaks down slowly over several years, and works better than even the homegrown compost that you should replace yearly.

The do-it-yourselfer has devised other useful tricks with peat moss. He uses it in his workshop or garage to absorb grease, oil or other spills.

No matter how sub-standard the soil in your yard has become, peat moss will bring your shrubs and flowers to life. When first planting a lawn, mix the peat moss with the soil, and it won’t burn or discourage growth like many fertilizers do.

When you want to bring your yard up to high standards, and don’t know where to start, look online to find several local landscaping companies. Ask for references and see exactly what they have done for others. Then ask the landscaper to help you as you renovate your yard into one that your neighbors will want to emulate.

Be sure the landscaper uses plenty of peat moss before planting anything new in your yard. He may also want to add peat moss to your existing plants so they will retain water without any waste. He should have the final choice on this.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in approved general contractors in Orange County, Mission Viejo home improvement and contractors in Orange County.

Bathroom Remodeling Tips

When you’re finished with your kitchen remodeling, consider remodeling your bathroom. If you have more than one bathroom in your home, try not to tear them both out at the same time, or you will find yourself without the use of either room. One at a time is much more convenient unless you’re planning on leaving for a period of time.

When your kitchen is in disarray, you can always wash dishes in the bathroom or laundry room, but you can’t transfer some of the bathroom functions to any other room.

Decide whether you want an entire new bathroom or just to remodel the existing bathroom, and there is a big difference between the two. If the fixtures will all remain in place, start with the walls and get them painted when they remove the countertop.

Whether you do the painting yourself or hire the contractor for the entire job, you still want it painted before they install the countertop. Choose attractive colors that will blend with the new countertop. Bright colors are in fashion today, so don’t just settle on ordinary white.

Before the contractor comes to your home, remove items like towel racks, toilet paper holders, wastebaskets, hooks, rugs, etc. Don’t forget to clean out the cabinet and drawers. That will make the entire job go quicker if you do your part in the minor preparations.

When the contractor comes, stay out of way. He doesn’t need your help and he knows his job, but long before you get to that point, you have to decide on the contractor you want to be in your house for several days. You can do that by picking a couple of kitchen and bath remodelers online. Get a couple of references from them both, and choose the one that will not only give you a good price, but will be responsible and finish on time.

What you want in your bathroom depends a lot on the space allowed. Some bathrooms may be backed up to a closet, and when you tear out the entire room, you could consider enlarging the room by losing the closet.

Your remodeling may include a new or refaced cabinet with new countertops, sinks and faucets. If you share the bathroom with more than one person, a double sink will be both practical and functional. Refacing is a new way of improving old cabinets. Many contractors include new doors and drawers, and that saves you a great deal of hard-earned dollars.

After the remodeling ask the contractor for suggestions to complete the task. There are many new designs that will bring your bathroom remodeling up to modern day innovations, and the upgrading of your bathroom will increase the value of your home.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in approved general contractors in Orange County, Orange County bathroom remodeling and contractors in Orange County.

Exterior Shutters Made in the USA

Many Americans today look especially for products that are made in the USA. They want not only superior workmanship, and top quality products, but a company that will discuss any problems that may materialize during the entire procedure.

Our customers wouldn’t appreciate talking to a person that doesn’t comprehend our language or the problems that may exist when they receive inferior materials in their exterior shutters. When homeowners want the best for their family and homes, they will search for the best, and made in the USA passes that test.

Price of course is often a prime consideration, but when compared with the final product, they prefer to pay a bit more for quality with the assurance that they will not have to worry about shipping damage, lead, or other hazardous ingredients.

The United States has manufacturing regulations that ensure the products made here are safe without those common problems from offshore and outsourced materials arriving on our shores where transportation is their highest consideration. In other words, the inferior material and low cost labor, keeps the price lower and you end up with a substandard product.

A company that hires workers that can hand craft solid prime wood fixed louvered exterior shutters will have pride in the end product. They insist on top quality in their materials as well and the exterior shutters that you install on your home will bring pride to your home.

That pride will extend not only to the quality of shutter, but the fact that hard working Americans, that are fairly paid, made the exterior shutters that added the new curb appeal to your property. You’ll feel that you did your part in bringing manufacturing back here. The appeal will also extend to the value of your home.

When you order products from a company that has their base here in America you help to keep that company in business. You also know that your purchases help to pay the workers that work there.

You’ll also know that the order you place with an American company will be exactly what you ordered, and they have full authority over every single thing they manufacture. Companies that outsource their shutter production have no control.The hand crafted exterior shutters made in the USA will stand out in your neighborhood. Your home will have a finished designer look that shows pride of ownership with a product that you know will last through rain or shine, and nothing shouts louder than Made in the USA.

Golden West Shutters Specializes in Orange County CA Shutters, Los Angeles Shutters, and Plantation Shutters in Orange County.

Awnings For Todays Lifestyles

When you think of awnings, you may think they are only for commercial buildings to attract customers, or to keep the windows cool with the shade they provide. That is of course true, but you’ll notice they are showing up on many homes in your area. They manufacture awnings for any size window and they will shade your windows and at the same time beautify your property.

You will be amazed at the improvements in awnings and the assortment of materials and colors that can be customized for your home or business. Large or small they come in fabrics like heavy canvas, aluminum, and corrugated fiberglass. The automated awnings will fit most lifestyles today, and when they add a wind sensor with a touch of a button, the awnings will open or close at the first hint of wind. The manual awnings are popular as well and operate easily to open or close, and even when left open are sturdy enough to withstand the wind up to a point. They customize the awnings for every window and you can add an awning over a patio door to help keep the sunshine at bay.

The new colors don’t fade but remain in the bright colors to match or contrast your building. Many businesses have their name imprinted on the awnings as a way to identify them to their prospective customers. Awnings are a way to attract customers with an attractive banner. In private homes or apartments, the awnings on each window create a pleasant interior no matter the weather, and they can identify your home for others searching for you. Just mention the house with the ruby red awnings, and there will be no need to explore the neighborhood. You may not choose such vibrant colors, but even tepid colors will bring a unique finished look to your plain unadorned home.

As you look for ways to dress up your home while protecting the interior against harsh sunrays, consider awnings all around your home. Even when you close them tight against the outside walls, they still give a framework of color to the top of your win-dows. When you install those movable awnings across your patio, it opens up an entire new room to your home. You will find you want to spend more time outside when you are protected from the sun, wind and rain. A screen around your patio will keep those pesky bugs away. Even after summer is gone, awnings will serve their purpose in the fall and even as winter sets in. Don’t wait, but call that awning company today, and enjoy your new lifestyle.

The Awning Company specializes in awnings Orange County CA, Orange County awnings and accent awnings.

A Few Reasons Many Remodel Especially Their Kitchens

"Whenever we have guests, they always congregate in the kitchen. I need a new kitchen.” Or they complain their kitchen is too spread out, or their kitchen is too small, or nothing in my kitchen is in the appropriate spot. Or, “I want new appliances in my new kitchen,” and on and on it goes. Not many cooks are happy with their kitchens unless they get it remodeled to meet their own specific needs.

When someone who has the unique problem of having a kitchen that is much too large; we can solve that problem easily while keeping the functioning kitchen in mind.

A kitchen that is too small may be harder to change especially if you don’t have the options of expanding it. We design new cabinets and drawers especially for you that will take advantage of every conceivable space within the confines of your kitchen.         

Many conveniences can be added as well, things like rollout shelves that open up the cabinets in back. Lazy-Susans placed in corner cabinets, twist and turn to make three or more shelves easily assessable.

You can add new cabinets while at the same time you have the old cabinets refaced. You’ll save money and don’t worry that they won’t match. Only a trained contractor would be able to tell the difference.

Countertops to replace tile or other old-fashioned tops will make your kitchen look entirely new. There are many new products that are ‘easy care’ and guaranteed to last. Lighting may be another area where you can modernize your kitchen. Recessed lighting is very popular getting rid of the old fluorescent lighting. Under cabinet lights are also available. A new floor could also give your kitchen a brand new look. The choices are unending.

Just be certain the contractor you choose is licensed, bonded and insured. If not, look elsewhere. If the contractor hires independent contractors to work for him, then there should be proper paper work to make sure the independents get paid. The contractor should have a place of business instead of working out of his garage. They should also have a showroom where you can look at the many options available.

Don’t ever pay a contractor in full before he does any work, no matter who he is. They should have a printed contract with their name, address and license number printed at the top. Pay a reasonable amount down like 10 percent, then payments as each part of the job gets completed. Those amounts should be shown in the contract.

With a few choices and a responsible contractor with references, you’ll have that new kitchen by the end of the year, or before.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in approved general contractors in Orange County, Orange County kitchen remodeling and contractors in Orange County.

Solar Power Systems For The Home

In years and even decades past solar power was reserved for those homeowners who either had large sums of money lying around and for those who were, at the time, unfashionably environmentally conscious. In more recent times however solar power has become extremely popular. Not only that but it has become much more affordable than it once was as well. The falling prices and rising popularity of solar power can be attributed to the technology that drives it. Over the decades and especially over the last two years, the technology behind solar power has advanced rapidly in change dramatically. Whereas there was once just one type of solar power system for a homeowner to choose from there are now many all of which utilize different technologies.

Any homeowner who wants to consider themselves "green" should give serious consideration to adding a solar power system to their home. Even a modest solar power system can save a homeowner a great deal of money in the long term and do a whole lot to reduce energy consumption and their carbon footprint. Homeowners with a bit more money to spend on a solar powered system will find that there are systems available that can take them completely off the grid and make their home power independent. These systems often include more photovoltaic cells than other systems do and often incorporate multiple batteries that store power that goes unused during the day.

A common misconception amongst homeowners is that even modern solar power systems will not be capable of meeting their energy needs or demands. Nothing could be further from the truth however and even older systems are usually more than capable of meeting even the most power demanding of households. In fact so good are modern solar power systems that many local power companies offer rewards to homeowners who own a solar power system and consume less power than they need. For many homeowners this is an easy task as their systems gather enough energy for multiple homes.

Unlike other home improvement projects were homeowners may be tempted or even capable of going it alone, the purchasing and installation of a solar power system necessitate the assistance of a professional. As the initial cost of solar power system can be a bit high it behooves homeowners to consult with a solar power professional long before any purchase is even considered. The same goes for installation. The installation of solar power systems requires experienced hands and can be dangerous, two things which should make any homeowner wary of even considering doing it themselves.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in approved general contractors in Orange County,Orange County solar power, and general contractors in Orange County.

Dual Flush Toilets

Up until recently homeowners had very little choice when it came to toilets for their bathrooms. Sure homeowners could select from different colors and even slightly different shapes but there wasn't much of a choice when it came to the behavior of a toilet. It was simply a case of flushing and then the bowl and tank refilling. These days however homeowners are no longer restricted to one type of toilet working one way. In sharp contrast to toilets of yore, dual flush toilets provide homeowners with an opportunity to save money, be environmentally conscious, and utilize a more modern and efficient type of toilet.

Dual flush toilets do exactly what the name says they do. Dual flush toilets feature two separate flushing mechanisms, sometimes on the same handle, that allow homeowners to flush their toilet differently depending on the contents left behind. Frankly speaking it takes far more water to flush down solid waste than it does to flush down liquid waste. Whereas toilets of old left individuals with no choice on how to rid their toilet of waste, modern dual flush toilets give homeowners an environmentally friendly and efficient option. Flushing down liquid waste in a dual flush toilet will cut water usage in half when compared to a traditional or old-fashioned toilet.

Whereas in years past energy-efficient or eco-friendly toilets have lacked in the design and appeal departments, modern dual flush toilets are anything but boring. In fact because the dual flush industry is a new industry manufacturers work hard at creating designs and colors that are aesthetically pleasing and impressive. They also work diligently to ensure that their toilets are just as comfortable if not more so than old-fashioned or traditional toilets. Some dual flush toilets come with two buttons, one for each flush, while others have a push and pull handle which individuals will use for different flushes.

While dual flush toilets are quickly growing in popularity, great for the environment, and water conservation homeowners will need assistance from a professional plumber in order to have a dual flush toilet installed in their home. The plumbing involved with dual flush toilets can be extremely complicated and therefore installation should never be handled by any layperson.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in approved general contractors in Orange County, Orange County bathroom remodeling, and general contractors in Orange County.

Solar Electric Panels

Like everything else when solar electric panels came on the scene you had no choice of color, design, or shapes. They all looked the same, and were ugly, cumbersome, and very expensive. Today the solar electric panels are changing, and as different companies have taken the plunge, the prices are becoming less expensive with incentives that offset the initial costs.

We don’t want to imply that they are cheap, but with the incentives offered today you may even be able to sell electricity back to the electric company. Think of that, no more electric bills, but credits to your accounts that will be beneficial to you.

The upgraded solar electric panels give you the opportunity to pick and choose exactly what you want. The photovoltaic cells that they install on your roof can look exactly like regular tile even down to the color.

Before you decide you need to research exactly how the solar electric panels work. Each cell is normally made from one or two layers of semiconducting materials normally silicon. As the cells receive light the electric field created by the amount of sunlight, gives the cell its strength and they measure it in kilowatts (kWp).

Look at the advantages of solar electric panels and that they cut your household’s carbon footprint, but more importantly than that, they cut your utility bills. That’s the primary reason many purchase them. Consider if your property is off the grid as far as purchasing electricity and the charges to bring electricity to your home may be prohibitive. Solar electric panels would fill the bill, and make you self-sufficient as well.

Of course there are many things to consider and the size of each cell and system and how much electricity consumed enter into the equation. Also every home is distinct down to the area where the panels are installed, and the amount of energy it can convert when exposed to direct sunlight.

These are all questions that need to be considered in relationship to solar energy panels and your home or business. The initial costs are relatively high, but the panels will pay for themselves within a few years.

When the advantages outweigh the costs and your inability to be self-sufficient in your current situation, consider others points of view especially the professional. He has spent the time and expense to bring a new way of approach to our lifestyle. The professional is the one that will answer your questions, and he won’t charge for his expertise.

SolarGEM specializes in Orange County solar energy, Orange County solar panels, and Anaheim solar power.

Pressure Wash All Around Your Home

That’s right, Pressure Wash not just your home, but all around your home. To keep the dirt, grime, mildew and other stuff off your walkways, patio furniture, patios and decks follow a few simple tricks to accomplish that task. The best and easiest way is to consult a professional who will advise you in the proper procedures to keep your property in new condition by using a pressure washer.

Whether you hire that professional, rent a power washer or purchase your own, you should still have a bit of knowledge to help in getting the job done. You’ll find out quickly that when you use the pressure washer regularly it becomes easier every time, and you can’t beat the end results.
When your walkways have been exposed to the elements for months on end, the easiest and fastest way to clean them and to keep them looking good is to power wash them. Otherwise the dirt and grime clings to the edges and eventually cause damage to the cement.

When you power wash the walkways use a washing cleaning detergent specifically for power washers on cement surfaces.

The reason you need to pressure wash your patio and deck is to keep the mildew and mold from taking up residence. Unless it is cleaned properly it may cause permanent damage including fading and/or cracking. Regular pressure washing will assure you that it will remain in good condition.
When you power wash your patio or deck, be sure to use either a 2400 or 2600 PSI pressure-washing nozzle. If you use less, it won’t get the job done, and more could cause damage to the patio surface.

If you live in a climate where your patio furniture remains outside all year, your chairs and patio tables still sit in the rain, wind, dust and dirt the entire time. They not only fade, but accumulate a coat of grime that will transfer to your clothing when you sit down. Power washing will keep them clean and looking good too.

When you power wash your patio furniture use the low-pressure level so you won’t knock the furniture over. Especially be careful when washing the glass tops of your tables.

If it all seems like a lot of work, and you have neither time nor inclination to pressure wash all around your home, hire a professional. They will get the job done quickly especially when you have unexpected company on their way.

Stanley Window Care specializes in Power washing Orange County, and Orange County pressure washing and Newport Beach power washing.

Searching for the Right Tree Service

Whenever a property owner has a problem with their trees, who should they call? Searching for the right tree service may seem daunting, and you may just go online to see what and who is available in your area. What it comes down to is do you just want a few tree limbs removed? If you don’t have the expertise to accomplish that, a tree service company should be able to help you. They may also be able to help you remove that ugly tree stump.

There are several reasons why you may hire the tree service company. Whether you want tree limbs removed that are a threat to your home or your neighbor’s, or if the limbs block your views, or you just want the tree to be trimmed they should be able to help you accomplish that task.

However when your trees appear to have problems, the tree service may not be able to help. There is a distinction between your local tree service and a certified arborist. Both services should be useful in maintaining a healthy tree, but the arborist is certified and educated in maintaining the health of your trees. The arborist will go a step above the average tree service company. The arborist or tree doctor should be able to identify and treat problems with the goal in mind to prevent those problems.

The arborist is not a miracle worker they may not be able to solve every problem especially if the tree has gone beyond the point of no return. However, when you first notice problems with your trees, and you call them in time to prevent further damage, they will be able to advise you on the best treatment.

To help you in searching for the right tree service and to find a certified Arborist Service, the following are organizations specifically for arborists and tree service members: The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), the National Arborist Association (NAA), and the American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA).

These organizations are the major professionals that help their members keep up to date on the latest knowledge in their field. The certified arborist will identify the problems and know the best treatment and prevention of disease and insect infestation. This knowledge along with their extensive training will be a key factor in preventing problems with your trees and other landscaping problems.

Millennium Construction specializes in Orange County landscape architect, landscape Orange County CA and landscape design Newport Beach.

Energy-efficient Remodeling

Ask a group of homeowners why they've chosen to remodel their home and nearly all of them will tell you that they've undertaken the project in order to improve the aesthetics of their home. While it's certainly important to keep the home looking great and attractive to potential buyers, it is also equally important to remodel a home with the goal being energy efficiency. Making each room in a home more energy-efficient is not only eco-friendly but it also helps homeowners save plenty of money when it comes to their energy consumption and costs. Best of all homeowners who want to do some remodeling for energy efficiency reasons can select any room within their home as all rooms can benefit greatly from such a project.

Energy efficiency in the kitchen is something that is often hard to come by. Things like outdated appliances and appliances that aren't working properly may consume additional energy just to function at semi-optimal levels. Furthermore small things in the kitchen like electrical outlets and even gas outlets and hoses might need to be replaced in order to make appliances and anything else plugged into them run more efficiently and keep them from consuming more energy than they need.

It may come as surprise to many homeowners that things like kitchen floors, windows, and even cabinets and countertops can all be replaced and/or upgraded in order to improve energy efficiency. All of these things can contribute to the environment within a kitchen and as such can cause appliances to function at optimal levels and can even cause individuals to turn up the heat or down the air when it gets too hot or too cold when their kitchen. By utilizing new materials for the aforementioned items homeowners can better control their kitchens climate and make it more conducive to cooking and eating in.

Bathrooms are another great type of room to remodel when homeowner aim for energy efficiency. Things like low flow showers and even toilets go a long way in conserving water and reducing energy consumption costs but homeowners can also focus on things like windows, new faucets, and even showers or tubs to make their bathroom more eco-friendly and efficient. Many homeowners are surprised to learn that the old windows in their bathrooms don't help trap heat nor do they keep cool air out. Replacing these types of windows with new more modern types will go a long way in establishing effective environmental control. Flooring is also something that homeowners can focus on when they remodel a bathroom for energy efficiency. Wood and tile floors are undeniably cool and may cause homeowners to run their heat and air at different times of the year in order to offset temperatures on the bathroom floor. Homeowners can explore putting in carpet or even rugs in order to negate the need for heating and airing bathrooms. In an energy-efficient bathroom remodel homeowners and contractors should stay focused on water conservation and environmental control.

The living room in a home is the central hub for a homeowner and his/her family. It is often filled with things like large screen television sets, surround sound systems, video game consoles, lighting fixtures, and a whole host of other things that require electricity. As such it behooves homeowners concerned with energy efficiency to remodel this room before tackling any others. Many older television sets and even stereos may be consuming far more energy than they're worth and may need to be replaced or relocated. Homeowners and contractors will sometimes employ specific types of surge protectors that regulate the flow of electricity of each device plugged into them. In addition to things that require electricity a living room can benefit from new furniture and even new flooring.

Again, controlling the environment of a living room can dramatically reduce energy consumption and costs. Following along that train of thought windows and even things like window blinds and tint should be explored by homeowners and their contractor.

Whether a homeowner remodels their kitchen, bathroom, or living room first one thing is for certain. They're going to notice a marked change in energy consumption and their bill. As homeowners move throughout their home and remodel for energy efficiency they will see even bigger changes. Energy-efficient remodels are good not only for helping homeowners save money and be more environmentally conscious but they can make a home all the more attractive to potential buyers down the line as well.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in approved general contractors in Orange County, Orange County bathroom remodeling, and general contractors in Orange County.