Gone are the days when people look down on vinyl fabrics and today you’ll see many products not limited to exterior but interior as well. Many are not only replications but they actually replace their former more natural material.
Vinyl blinds are one of the most popular. Not only because they’re attractive, but they’re easy to clean and with a bit of care are long lasting. Consider the old time venetian blinds. The metal didn’t keep their luster, were all about the identical horizontal size, and over a period of time, were not easy to clean.
Today’s vinyl blinds are either vertical or horizontal and often have attractive vinyl fabric or vinyl PVC backing that increase or decrease the light as well as insulate against the sun and the heat. The vinyl blinds protect the interior of your home, and give you the added benefit of insulation. The slats are easily moved and you control the lighting effect.
You’ll find interior vinyl fabrics on clear cushion covers, or the simulated leather furniture. The high-end vinyl product is not easily identified and looks much like genuine leather without the high cost of leather or the death of an animal. Many prefer them for that reason alone.
Attractive colorful vinyl tablecloths are available for every occasion including holidays and birthdays. Their first use may have been on picnic tables, but they have slowly gained popularity inside especially when children are in the home.
Today they use vinyl fabric outdoors for awnings or patio furniture. The vinyl fabric is water resistant, easy to clean, and doesn’t fade like other cotton material. It can be hosed down and is used on convertible tops for cars. They make simulated leather seats from the vinyl fabric as well.
For those who prefer genuine leather and believe that vinyl fabric does not compare, they need to check out today’s vinyl fabric. To say it has been improved is a minor statement. There are actually more grades of vinyl fabric than natural materials.
The high-grade will certainly cost more, but there are more ways to tell the difference than price. The higher quality vinyl fabric is normally smooth and is soft to the touch. The rougher and less uniform the material, the cheaper it is, and it is not durable and usually difficult to clean. So insist on higher quality vinyl fabric and you won’t be disappointed.
Prepare to pay more, but in the long run it will be worth the price.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in Orange County blinds, Irvine home improvement and home remodeling Orange County.
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Custom Home Plans for Every Homeowner
When you have plans to build your own custom home there are many ways you may choose to go. One is to hire an architect to draw out the plans for you. An architect will have the knowledge to put your drawings down including of course the floor plan, but there are other things he or she brings to the table.
The plans have to be approved by a local housing agency and that in itself can be a difficult and costly proposition. The plans must include a site plan, the exterior elevations, electrical plans, wall sections, door and window plans, roof plans and foundation plans and of course that floor plan along with other documents.
The sewage treatment and water drainage have to be included in the initial set of plans. They draw them to scale, and once the building is started government officials inspect the property to make sure all of the regulations have been followed to a T.
If all of that doesn’t scare you, other regulations like removing indigenous plants and trees that are protected by agencies may come onto the scene. And there’s more, but let’s not get stopped before we even begin.
Your second alternative is to buy custom home plans, and your new home may then look like several other homes in your community. If that doesn’t bother you go for it. However if you want an original custom home plan you can tweak those other plans to make a small difference. Or start from scratch, put your own thoughts down on paper and go find an architect who is willing to create a unique custom plan.
Sure they charge, many by the
hours they spend preparing your home to your specifications. Try to find an architect who listens to you. If they insist on their own ideas, tell them “no thanks” and find another. Remember though, they can’t read your mind so be specific.
Many times prospective homeowners make drastic changes every time they meet with the professional. If that is the case with you, prepare to pay for those changes. You really do have other choices. An architect can draw up the plans entirely and often they charge by the square footage of the home; or you could have a consultant help you with custom home designs, and they charge by the hour.
The best advice for the prospective homeowner is to be sure what you want in your new home, then interview more than one professional. Check their references and start the process, there’s no time like the present.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in general contractors Orange County CA, Irvine home improvement and home remodeling Orange County.
The plans have to be approved by a local housing agency and that in itself can be a difficult and costly proposition. The plans must include a site plan, the exterior elevations, electrical plans, wall sections, door and window plans, roof plans and foundation plans and of course that floor plan along with other documents.
The sewage treatment and water drainage have to be included in the initial set of plans. They draw them to scale, and once the building is started government officials inspect the property to make sure all of the regulations have been followed to a T.
If all of that doesn’t scare you, other regulations like removing indigenous plants and trees that are protected by agencies may come onto the scene. And there’s more, but let’s not get stopped before we even begin.
Your second alternative is to buy custom home plans, and your new home may then look like several other homes in your community. If that doesn’t bother you go for it. However if you want an original custom home plan you can tweak those other plans to make a small difference. Or start from scratch, put your own thoughts down on paper and go find an architect who is willing to create a unique custom plan.
Sure they charge, many by the
hours they spend preparing your home to your specifications. Try to find an architect who listens to you. If they insist on their own ideas, tell them “no thanks” and find another. Remember though, they can’t read your mind so be specific.
Many times prospective homeowners make drastic changes every time they meet with the professional. If that is the case with you, prepare to pay for those changes. You really do have other choices. An architect can draw up the plans entirely and often they charge by the square footage of the home; or you could have a consultant help you with custom home designs, and they charge by the hour.
The best advice for the prospective homeowner is to be sure what you want in your new home, then interview more than one professional. Check their references and start the process, there’s no time like the present.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in general contractors Orange County CA, Irvine home improvement and home remodeling Orange County.
Friday, March 22, 2013
Garage Door Openers
According to the FBI a property crime occurs every 15 seconds. Many of those crimes involve vehicles; however the garage door opener is the one thing that intersects property crime. That makes your garage door opener vulnerable. A knowledgeable thief knows how to get through that door, and being closed doesn’t mean locked.
That thief will drive down one street after another with several openers in his hand while punching the buttons. When he hits one and the door swings open, he’s already on his way into your home. A sturdy door that enters your home through the garage, may cause him problems, but not for long. A swift kick will tear the frame away lock and all.
So stop the barrier at the garage door. Many have a lock inside the garage door that locks the door closed when the homeowner is gone on vacation. It can still be opened from the inside, but why not keep it locked when you are home with the garage door closed. Punch it open as you leave your property, but locked otherwise.
When you consider replacing your old garage door, with the rusty springs, look at solid wood garage doors instead of aluminum or vinyl. They may cost more, but they will be an asset when you sell your home. Also the door is heavier, is more durable, and normally requires the screw driven assemblies and safety features that will deter the common thief.
Another thing that will work against the property owner will be the garage that is hidden from sight like those in back of the home. When the garage sits facing the street two things will help keep you safe. First motion-sensor lighting and second by keeping the door closed and locked. A garage door with the door wide-open, and the vehicles gone shouts to the burglar to come on in.
Regular maintenance will keep your garage door working properly. When you visually inspect the springs, rollers, pulleys, cables, and track you may see a potential problem. Lubricate the moving parts, but not the plastic ones. Check the edge sensor to make sure they are in working condition.
Whenever you are in doubt about the safety of your garage door opener, call a professional. They will repair the problems and may make the recommendation to put your home on the list for regular monthly service. With regular service and maintenance your door will retain the needed security for your property.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in general contractors Orange County CA, Irvine home improvement and Orange County garage doors.
That thief will drive down one street after another with several openers in his hand while punching the buttons. When he hits one and the door swings open, he’s already on his way into your home. A sturdy door that enters your home through the garage, may cause him problems, but not for long. A swift kick will tear the frame away lock and all.
So stop the barrier at the garage door. Many have a lock inside the garage door that locks the door closed when the homeowner is gone on vacation. It can still be opened from the inside, but why not keep it locked when you are home with the garage door closed. Punch it open as you leave your property, but locked otherwise.
When you consider replacing your old garage door, with the rusty springs, look at solid wood garage doors instead of aluminum or vinyl. They may cost more, but they will be an asset when you sell your home. Also the door is heavier, is more durable, and normally requires the screw driven assemblies and safety features that will deter the common thief.
Another thing that will work against the property owner will be the garage that is hidden from sight like those in back of the home. When the garage sits facing the street two things will help keep you safe. First motion-sensor lighting and second by keeping the door closed and locked. A garage door with the door wide-open, and the vehicles gone shouts to the burglar to come on in.
Regular maintenance will keep your garage door working properly. When you visually inspect the springs, rollers, pulleys, cables, and track you may see a potential problem. Lubricate the moving parts, but not the plastic ones. Check the edge sensor to make sure they are in working condition.
Whenever you are in doubt about the safety of your garage door opener, call a professional. They will repair the problems and may make the recommendation to put your home on the list for regular monthly service. With regular service and maintenance your door will retain the needed security for your property.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in general contractors Orange County CA, Irvine home improvement and Orange County garage doors.
Friday, March 15, 2013
Lamps are an Integral Part of Home Décor
Rarely, if ever, will you find lamps discussed at the beginning of Home Décor. Normally lamps come to mind after everything else is in place. When the room looks dark and dank even your new furniture doesn’t shine. New lamps can change that, but first you need to decide how the lamp will be used.
Will the lamp be an important feature in back of a chair where reading takes place? Will the use of the lamp be used to subtly shine the light across the floor so no one will stumble? Will the lamp be the center of the room, or off in a corner?
When you answer those questions, you’ll be able to decide the type of lamps that will bring your home out of the dark ages. There are numerous types of lamps and many come in sets and bring modernization to the room. The integral part of your home décor still rests on the lamp. It will make the statement that your home is in the modern era or shines like in the past when a gas lamp or candle lit the room.
There are table lamps, floor lamps, hanging lamps, and even indirect lighting. When your options trend toward modern, contemporary lamps fit in well. The choices are yours to make, and they can either match or contrast your color schemes. However you may not want to mix modern with antique. It is often more attractive when you stick with one or the other.
Otherwise it may look like you chose that old antique lamp from the attic, you know the one that looks as though it went through the war and barely survived. Give that lamp to the Salvation Army and someone will find a use for it. But in your contemporary home, it simply doesn’t fit. Now we’re not talking about heirlooms, and if you have one of those, pick a spot where they stand out possibly on an antique table or in another room.
Lamps are the highlight of any room, and when you install them with the correct wattage your room will look alive. Every lamp has a duty to perform, and not all have to match so choose wisely. If your choice is indirect just be sure you have a brighter light to shine on a book or desk. That way your lighting shares in the ability to use it properly.
When you install a lamp to perform a particular duty, everyone will benefit and the integrity shines through.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in general contractors Orange County CA, Irvine home improvement and Orange County contractors.
Will the lamp be an important feature in back of a chair where reading takes place? Will the use of the lamp be used to subtly shine the light across the floor so no one will stumble? Will the lamp be the center of the room, or off in a corner?
When you answer those questions, you’ll be able to decide the type of lamps that will bring your home out of the dark ages. There are numerous types of lamps and many come in sets and bring modernization to the room. The integral part of your home décor still rests on the lamp. It will make the statement that your home is in the modern era or shines like in the past when a gas lamp or candle lit the room.
There are table lamps, floor lamps, hanging lamps, and even indirect lighting. When your options trend toward modern, contemporary lamps fit in well. The choices are yours to make, and they can either match or contrast your color schemes. However you may not want to mix modern with antique. It is often more attractive when you stick with one or the other.
Otherwise it may look like you chose that old antique lamp from the attic, you know the one that looks as though it went through the war and barely survived. Give that lamp to the Salvation Army and someone will find a use for it. But in your contemporary home, it simply doesn’t fit. Now we’re not talking about heirlooms, and if you have one of those, pick a spot where they stand out possibly on an antique table or in another room.
Lamps are the highlight of any room, and when you install them with the correct wattage your room will look alive. Every lamp has a duty to perform, and not all have to match so choose wisely. If your choice is indirect just be sure you have a brighter light to shine on a book or desk. That way your lighting shares in the ability to use it properly.
When you install a lamp to perform a particular duty, everyone will benefit and the integrity shines through.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in general contractors Orange County CA, Irvine home improvement and Orange County contractors.
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Vinyl, Fabric and Wooden Blinds
Do you prefer dressing your windows in an uncluttered and simple way? Some people prefer simplicity not only because it gives a more modern look to the house, but also because it is easier to maintain. We are talking about window blinds. As opposed to curtains, blinds offer a better control of the light that comes from outside. By changing the angle only slightly, you can still keep your privacy, but get a view of the outside and let some sunlight in.
Blinds come in different types of materials like vinyl, metal, wood or fabric. They can be horizontal or vertical. You can angle the slats up or down as you choose, or you can open the blinds all the way. You can use them all by themselves or you can add matching drapes above them.
Vinyl blinds are the most common types of blinds, because they are easier to clean and they are not affected by moisture. They are also the most affordable type of blinds in the market. Before vinyl blinds were popular, metal blinds were commonly used. But they used to bend easily and especially in humid seasons they would get rusted. There was also the risk of cutting your hands while cleaning them. Vinyl blinds come in horizontal or vertical forms and even though they are not the most durable type of window treatments, they still offer a simplistic option for your windows.
If you prefer vertical blinds, besides vinyl, your second option is fabric blinds. Many home and office owners prefer fabric blinds because they are very ideal for larger windows or sliding doors. Like horizontal blinds they come with a rod that helps you tilt the slats or vanes and they can also be opened all the way if you choose. Vertical blinds are usually preferred when it comes to sliding doors.
Are you a fan of rustic décor? Than look no further than wooden blinds. They come in all shades and colors in today's market and they will add a country flare to your home or office. They are also better in blocking the light if that's what you prefer. The wooden blinds are the most expensive option but they are extremely durable and look quite luxurious. You can choose the hand operated ones or the automatic ones where with the touch of a button you can adjust the angle of the slats, lift them up completely or half way. One thing to make sure if you are planning to purchase wooden blinds is that you need to check and see if they are properly sealed; otherwise they can get damaged easily by moisture, especially if you are planning to use them in your bathroom or kitchen. Faux wood or vinyl are better options for these areas where moisture is almost always an issue.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in general contractors Orange County CA, Irvine home improvement and Orange County blinds.
Blinds come in different types of materials like vinyl, metal, wood or fabric. They can be horizontal or vertical. You can angle the slats up or down as you choose, or you can open the blinds all the way. You can use them all by themselves or you can add matching drapes above them.
Vinyl blinds are the most common types of blinds, because they are easier to clean and they are not affected by moisture. They are also the most affordable type of blinds in the market. Before vinyl blinds were popular, metal blinds were commonly used. But they used to bend easily and especially in humid seasons they would get rusted. There was also the risk of cutting your hands while cleaning them. Vinyl blinds come in horizontal or vertical forms and even though they are not the most durable type of window treatments, they still offer a simplistic option for your windows.
If you prefer vertical blinds, besides vinyl, your second option is fabric blinds. Many home and office owners prefer fabric blinds because they are very ideal for larger windows or sliding doors. Like horizontal blinds they come with a rod that helps you tilt the slats or vanes and they can also be opened all the way if you choose. Vertical blinds are usually preferred when it comes to sliding doors.
Are you a fan of rustic décor? Than look no further than wooden blinds. They come in all shades and colors in today's market and they will add a country flare to your home or office. They are also better in blocking the light if that's what you prefer. The wooden blinds are the most expensive option but they are extremely durable and look quite luxurious. You can choose the hand operated ones or the automatic ones where with the touch of a button you can adjust the angle of the slats, lift them up completely or half way. One thing to make sure if you are planning to purchase wooden blinds is that you need to check and see if they are properly sealed; otherwise they can get damaged easily by moisture, especially if you are planning to use them in your bathroom or kitchen. Faux wood or vinyl are better options for these areas where moisture is almost always an issue.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in general contractors Orange County CA, Irvine home improvement and Orange County blinds.
Monday, March 11, 2013
How To Estimate Vinyl Siding Cost
In an economy where we all need to watch our budget, inevitable home repairs and renovations force us home owners opt for cheaper yet more durable materials. This is why vinyl siding is becoming more popular among home owners. First off it is attractive and it never goes out of style; second, it is (almost) maintenance free and lastly, it is durable. The cost will depend on the type of vinyl siding you choose. If you live in colder climates or in areas where you get storms, tornadoes, hails or heavy rains, you will need thicker sidings (0.035 being the thinnest and 0.055 being the thickest) and possibly some insulation material underneath that. It is always better to pay a little extra in the beginning to save money in the future.
How to calculate the exterior square footage?
In order to accurately calculate your expenses you need to find out your home's exterior square footage. Did you hate math in high school and think you would never need it in real life? Don't worry, it is not as hard as you think. Get your tape measure, calculator, paper and pencil ready. What you will need to do is measure the area of a rectangle (which is your house). First figure out the length and the width of your house. Let's say it's 50'x30'. You will need to multiply this by 2. Next, measure the height of your house. Let's say it's 10'. You will need to multiply 10 with the area of your house. In other words it will be (50+50+35+35)x10=1700. For the parts where you have triangles, like top of the windows, or garage or side of your roof, you will need to figure out the areas of these triangles separately. To find the area of a rectangle multiply its height by its length and divide it by 2. (HxL)/2.Add the rectangles' total to the square footage total. The vinyl siding price per linear foot varies anywhere from $2 to $10. Let's say that the house's total linear footage is 2000 and you bought a vinyl that is $3.00 per linear foot, you will need to multiply 2000 by 3= $6000. This is how much you will spend on vinyl before any taxes or installation fees. You will still need to pay some additional fees to trim the vinyl to fit your walls even if you want to install it yourself. If you want to place a special order in the color of your choice, this will also require an additional fee. When you choose your vinyl, do not go with a material that does not contain titanium dioxide. Sometimes instead of titanium dioxide, you will see “extruded for sun protection”. They are both important to keep the color as new as you bought it the first day, without fading and other sun damage.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in general contractors Orange County CA, Irvine home improvement and contractors in Orange County.
How to calculate the exterior square footage?
In order to accurately calculate your expenses you need to find out your home's exterior square footage. Did you hate math in high school and think you would never need it in real life? Don't worry, it is not as hard as you think. Get your tape measure, calculator, paper and pencil ready. What you will need to do is measure the area of a rectangle (which is your house). First figure out the length and the width of your house. Let's say it's 50'x30'. You will need to multiply this by 2. Next, measure the height of your house. Let's say it's 10'. You will need to multiply 10 with the area of your house. In other words it will be (50+50+35+35)x10=1700. For the parts where you have triangles, like top of the windows, or garage or side of your roof, you will need to figure out the areas of these triangles separately. To find the area of a rectangle multiply its height by its length and divide it by 2. (HxL)/2.Add the rectangles' total to the square footage total. The vinyl siding price per linear foot varies anywhere from $2 to $10. Let's say that the house's total linear footage is 2000 and you bought a vinyl that is $3.00 per linear foot, you will need to multiply 2000 by 3= $6000. This is how much you will spend on vinyl before any taxes or installation fees. You will still need to pay some additional fees to trim the vinyl to fit your walls even if you want to install it yourself. If you want to place a special order in the color of your choice, this will also require an additional fee. When you choose your vinyl, do not go with a material that does not contain titanium dioxide. Sometimes instead of titanium dioxide, you will see “extruded for sun protection”. They are both important to keep the color as new as you bought it the first day, without fading and other sun damage.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in general contractors Orange County CA, Irvine home improvement and contractors in Orange County.
Friday, March 8, 2013
Floor Décor Options
You can decorate your house any way you want, but if you don't show any love and care for your floors, even the most expensive and the most elegant furniture will not shine. Can you imagine walking to a place where there is absolutely no treatment for the floors? It is unheard of, isn't it? When it comes to home renovation, floor treatments should never be overlooked. But what kind of floor décor is the right choice for your house?
Let's say you have little kids. You would probably do better with carpet in the living area and bedrooms. While carpets protect your kids from getting hurt when they fall, they also get dirty easier when the kids constantly spill something. Some dogs for example do not like walking on hardwood floors or tiles. For carpeted areas, it is better if you have a good steam cleaner handy.
When decorating the floors, the first thing one should consider is the floor's visibility. By this, we mean getting the full potential of your floor, not just showing it off. Can you think of a kitchen floor covered with carpet for example? Or a living room with linoleum floor? It is because they are not useful for those spaces.
Hard wood or faux wood floors are great for bedrooms and living rooms. They come in different shades and shapes. If you opt for these but are worried about the installation costs, with a little bit of research and a good guide book, you can do it yourself. This is not as hard as you think.
One of the newest trends in home décor is the polished concrete. Many apartment and studio floors nowadays are treated with polished concrete. This used to be the option for workshops and busy stores. But not anymore. Because of its ease of maintenance and high durability as well as the modern, industrial look and feel, many people are opting for polished concrete floors.
If you are looking for ways to give your floor a facelift, if the old carpet doesn't look clean anymore no matter how much you steam clean it, or the hardwood floors lost their shine and are full of scratches, first take into account your household's conditions and how your floors respond to these conditions. What is best for a specific area in your house? If you like your existing hardwood floors but are worried the kids or pets can damage them, you can either buy large size rugs, or temporarily go with a cheaper carpet to cover the wood for a few years. You can also rent floor scrapers and polishers from a local hardware store and do the maintenance yourself.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in general contractors Orange County CA, Irvine home improvement and Orange County flooring .
Let's say you have little kids. You would probably do better with carpet in the living area and bedrooms. While carpets protect your kids from getting hurt when they fall, they also get dirty easier when the kids constantly spill something. Some dogs for example do not like walking on hardwood floors or tiles. For carpeted areas, it is better if you have a good steam cleaner handy.
When decorating the floors, the first thing one should consider is the floor's visibility. By this, we mean getting the full potential of your floor, not just showing it off. Can you think of a kitchen floor covered with carpet for example? Or a living room with linoleum floor? It is because they are not useful for those spaces.
Hard wood or faux wood floors are great for bedrooms and living rooms. They come in different shades and shapes. If you opt for these but are worried about the installation costs, with a little bit of research and a good guide book, you can do it yourself. This is not as hard as you think.
One of the newest trends in home décor is the polished concrete. Many apartment and studio floors nowadays are treated with polished concrete. This used to be the option for workshops and busy stores. But not anymore. Because of its ease of maintenance and high durability as well as the modern, industrial look and feel, many people are opting for polished concrete floors.
If you are looking for ways to give your floor a facelift, if the old carpet doesn't look clean anymore no matter how much you steam clean it, or the hardwood floors lost their shine and are full of scratches, first take into account your household's conditions and how your floors respond to these conditions. What is best for a specific area in your house? If you like your existing hardwood floors but are worried the kids or pets can damage them, you can either buy large size rugs, or temporarily go with a cheaper carpet to cover the wood for a few years. You can also rent floor scrapers and polishers from a local hardware store and do the maintenance yourself.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in general contractors Orange County CA, Irvine home improvement and Orange County flooring .
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
The Benefit Fence Gates
Privacy, decoration, weather barrier, protection of kids or pets... whatever your reasons are to build a fence or repair an existing one, make sure you give the fence gate the care and attention it deserves. Nobody likes crooked or squeaky fence gates. They are not only an annoyance but also, when they are not functioning properly, they bring the value and beauty of your home down.
It is true that fence gates are subject to damage more often than the rest of the fence, due to their frequent use. Speaking of usage, before you begin repairing or installing a fence gate or a garden gate, keep their purpose in mind. Some gates are for decorative purposes only. Sometimes you will see two little posts with a gate attached to them, right in the middle of a garden. They are not made to keep certain critters out or to protect anything. For those, a simple little latch with a hook will be good enough while gates that are attached to a fence or a wall will require more attention.
What kind of repair do fence gates require?
Sometimes, all you need will be a simple paint job to give your fence gate an updated, fresh look. Sometimes, you will need to replace a latch, a hook or a lock. Most of these parts are quite affordable and readily available in hardware stores. If you are working with an antique gate and the parts are old, you might need to find an expert to fix these or simply replace them by new parts. Since the gates are used frequently, it is better to keep them closed or locked when they are not being used. This way, you can keep them stable and balanced. In addition to this, if you have a heavy gate made from iron or massive heavy wood, then you will need stone or iron walls/fences to support your gate. You won't be able to keep a heavy gate secured if your fences are not made from heavy material to support them.
Like everything else, you will need to clean and do little repairs or updates on your fences and gates to prevent them from getting severely damaged in the future. If you have wooden gates and you live in a humid climate, make sure you prime and seal the wood for heavy weather conditions to increase its durability. You will also need to oil hinges from time to time so they don't squeak. Fence gates/garden gates that are regularly taken care of will greatly increase the beauty and value of your home and who doesn't love that? If you are building new fences, make sure you check your setbacks with your city in order to find out where exactly you are allowed to build them. Another thing you will want to make sure is that there are no buried cables or pipes where you are planning to build your fences. For this, you can contact your utility companies and they will come to your property and mark those lines for you.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in Orange County contractor services, Irvine home improvement and Orange County fences .
It is true that fence gates are subject to damage more often than the rest of the fence, due to their frequent use. Speaking of usage, before you begin repairing or installing a fence gate or a garden gate, keep their purpose in mind. Some gates are for decorative purposes only. Sometimes you will see two little posts with a gate attached to them, right in the middle of a garden. They are not made to keep certain critters out or to protect anything. For those, a simple little latch with a hook will be good enough while gates that are attached to a fence or a wall will require more attention.
What kind of repair do fence gates require?
Sometimes, all you need will be a simple paint job to give your fence gate an updated, fresh look. Sometimes, you will need to replace a latch, a hook or a lock. Most of these parts are quite affordable and readily available in hardware stores. If you are working with an antique gate and the parts are old, you might need to find an expert to fix these or simply replace them by new parts. Since the gates are used frequently, it is better to keep them closed or locked when they are not being used. This way, you can keep them stable and balanced. In addition to this, if you have a heavy gate made from iron or massive heavy wood, then you will need stone or iron walls/fences to support your gate. You won't be able to keep a heavy gate secured if your fences are not made from heavy material to support them.
Like everything else, you will need to clean and do little repairs or updates on your fences and gates to prevent them from getting severely damaged in the future. If you have wooden gates and you live in a humid climate, make sure you prime and seal the wood for heavy weather conditions to increase its durability. You will also need to oil hinges from time to time so they don't squeak. Fence gates/garden gates that are regularly taken care of will greatly increase the beauty and value of your home and who doesn't love that? If you are building new fences, make sure you check your setbacks with your city in order to find out where exactly you are allowed to build them. Another thing you will want to make sure is that there are no buried cables or pipes where you are planning to build your fences. For this, you can contact your utility companies and they will come to your property and mark those lines for you.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in Orange County contractor services, Irvine home improvement and Orange County fences .
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Low-e Windows Control the Sun
Nothing makes a room more attractive and comfortable than when the windows actually control the sun. Even though that sounds like something from the far future, it is a fact, and today low-e (low emissivity) windows control the sun.
The low-e glass window is a windowpane that is coated in microscopic layers of metallic oxides. The coating is invisible and it allows natural light into the home without bringing in the harsh rays of the sun. Those rays are the ones that burn your skin, or fade your carpet and furniture.
The low-e window protects your home in the summer by reflecting sections outside, and in the winter it sends the rays into your home to warm it. Sounds too good to be true? Yes, it does, and it will make sense when you realize that they apply the metallic oxide layer to different areas of your window. Soft coatings are on the inside of the window because they can’t withstand the elements on the outside. Hard coatings are less efficient, but can stand up to the elements and are on the outside of your window.
Originally the low-e glass was only used for one purpose and that was to keep the light and warmth in. Customers loved the new glass, but those in warmer communities wanted the same glass for the hot summer months. The new improved glass now works both ways, and the most common application is between the two panels of glass and is a thin sheet instead of a coating. It acts to reflect the sun and is also a thermal insulation against heat loss.
Windows are often the first thing a homeowners wants replaced and they’ve found that the low-e windows are definitely worth the investment. They help to keep their homes comfortable and the lower air conditioning and heating bills are lower making them environmentally friendly.
However it is advised that you hire a professional to install the windows; especially those where you’ll need new frames as well as glass. The improvements they’ve made in window glass will be an ongoing improvement in your home. You’ll get the cost back if you plan on selling your home, but the lower utility bills will make them worthwhile as well.
The new low-e windows bring your home up to this modern age and because they’re easier to maintain, they will last for the life of your home. You’ll never be sorry you made the investment to improve your home and it will be the pride of the neighborhood.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in Orange County contractor services, Irvine home improvement and Orange County remodeling services.
The low-e glass window is a windowpane that is coated in microscopic layers of metallic oxides. The coating is invisible and it allows natural light into the home without bringing in the harsh rays of the sun. Those rays are the ones that burn your skin, or fade your carpet and furniture.
The low-e window protects your home in the summer by reflecting sections outside, and in the winter it sends the rays into your home to warm it. Sounds too good to be true? Yes, it does, and it will make sense when you realize that they apply the metallic oxide layer to different areas of your window. Soft coatings are on the inside of the window because they can’t withstand the elements on the outside. Hard coatings are less efficient, but can stand up to the elements and are on the outside of your window.
Originally the low-e glass was only used for one purpose and that was to keep the light and warmth in. Customers loved the new glass, but those in warmer communities wanted the same glass for the hot summer months. The new improved glass now works both ways, and the most common application is between the two panels of glass and is a thin sheet instead of a coating. It acts to reflect the sun and is also a thermal insulation against heat loss.
Windows are often the first thing a homeowners wants replaced and they’ve found that the low-e windows are definitely worth the investment. They help to keep their homes comfortable and the lower air conditioning and heating bills are lower making them environmentally friendly.
However it is advised that you hire a professional to install the windows; especially those where you’ll need new frames as well as glass. The improvements they’ve made in window glass will be an ongoing improvement in your home. You’ll get the cost back if you plan on selling your home, but the lower utility bills will make them worthwhile as well.
The new low-e windows bring your home up to this modern age and because they’re easier to maintain, they will last for the life of your home. You’ll never be sorry you made the investment to improve your home and it will be the pride of the neighborhood.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in Orange County contractor services, Irvine home improvement and Orange County remodeling services.
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