The roof on a home is one of the most important aspects of any particular dwelling. A strong and sturdy roof means that a home will be protected from not only weather but pests as well. In order for a roof to remain strong and sturdy for years and even decades at a time, homeowners and new construction contractors must utilize strong roofing materials.
One of the strongest and most reliable types of roofing materials is slate. Among contractors and builders slate has a reputation as being the highest quality material one can use on a roof. On the other hand however amongst homeowners, slate is often viewed as expensive, difficult to install, and extremely fragile. Many homeowners however will select slate tile roofing simply because of its natural beauty, overlooking the cost and some of the issues that come with it. No other type of roofing tiles are as classy as slate nor do any other materials give homeowners and builders the number of choices that slate does. Slate tiling is available in a myriad of different colors, thicknesses, and even sizes and shapes.
With regards to its longevity, slate is well known to hold up and remain reliable for up to a century at a time. In fact some of the more upscale slate tiles may last as long as 150 years when properly cared for. Other types of roofing tiles often lose functionality immediately and need to be replaced just one or two decades after being installed.
When it comes to safety, no other type of roofing tile offers the type of fire resistance that slate does. It has been said that Slate is one of the most if not the most fire resistant roofing that exists. They are 100% fireproof 100% of the time. These types of roofing tiles can come in handy when a homeowner wishes to prevent fires caused by airborne sparks that come from things like wildfires, houses next door that are on fire, and even rogue fireworks.
Homeowners who want to "go green" can take comfort in knowing that slate roofing tiles are among some of the most environmentally friendly that can be purchased. As slate roofing tiles last for so long there is little need to discard them leaving more room for other items in landfills everywhere.
The only real drawback in utilizing slate tiles for a roof is their fragility. Installing tiles on the roof isn't a job any homeowner should try to undertake themselves even when they're using less expensive and more durable tiling. Safety issues aside this is especially true for homeowners using slate tiling. Slate tiling chips and breaks very easily and because it isn't cheap homeowners will want an experienced professional handling their slate tiling so as to avoid reproducing costs.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in general contractors in Orange County, Orange County ca contractors, and Orange County remodeling.
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Monday, September 10, 2012
Infrared Saunas
Homeowners frequently have both pools and Jacuzzi's installed for the purpose of fun and relaxation. While these types of additions to the home can certainly provide their years and even decades of entertainment to a family, some homeowners may wish to do something a little different.
Homeowners looking for something different often elect to have an infrared sauna installed either in place of the pool, Jacuzzi or a traditional sauna.
Some homeowners may be surprised to learn that infrared saunas are actually easy to install and far less expensive to purchase that are pools and Jacuzzi's. They also carry with them a number of different health benefits which can also help homeowners justify the purchase. Homeowners who've had one installed can tell you there's nothing quite like relaxing and cleansing your body of toxins at the same time.
Now when we talk of infrared saunas we do not mean traditional saunas. While traditional saunas essentially utilize basic steam theory to get the job done, infrared saunas go a step further and raise the temperature of the environment around an individual. This creates ample heat for maximum effect. Infrared saunas take advantage of infrared heat which is invisible to human eyes and uses it to create heat on any surfaces that it might come in contact with. The equipment in infrared saunas constantly produces infrared waves which heat up a body's temperature without having to heat up an entire room.
In the aforementioned ways, infrared saunas not only provide rest and relaxation for all who use them but they will save homeowners money as well when compared to traditional saunas. As infrared saunas run more efficiently than do traditional saunas, they produce more heat using less power. Additionally infrared saunas are far less expensive to install than are more traditional units. Many are available in prebuilt kits which are easy to set up with the help of a professional contractor.
Once installation has been completed, a homeowner and their guests can begin using an infrared sauna frequently without worry of energy consumption costs, maintenance, and repair.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in general contractors in Orange County, Orange County ca contractors, and Orange County remodeling.
Homeowners looking for something different often elect to have an infrared sauna installed either in place of the pool, Jacuzzi or a traditional sauna.
Some homeowners may be surprised to learn that infrared saunas are actually easy to install and far less expensive to purchase that are pools and Jacuzzi's. They also carry with them a number of different health benefits which can also help homeowners justify the purchase. Homeowners who've had one installed can tell you there's nothing quite like relaxing and cleansing your body of toxins at the same time.
Now when we talk of infrared saunas we do not mean traditional saunas. While traditional saunas essentially utilize basic steam theory to get the job done, infrared saunas go a step further and raise the temperature of the environment around an individual. This creates ample heat for maximum effect. Infrared saunas take advantage of infrared heat which is invisible to human eyes and uses it to create heat on any surfaces that it might come in contact with. The equipment in infrared saunas constantly produces infrared waves which heat up a body's temperature without having to heat up an entire room.
In the aforementioned ways, infrared saunas not only provide rest and relaxation for all who use them but they will save homeowners money as well when compared to traditional saunas. As infrared saunas run more efficiently than do traditional saunas, they produce more heat using less power. Additionally infrared saunas are far less expensive to install than are more traditional units. Many are available in prebuilt kits which are easy to set up with the help of a professional contractor.
Once installation has been completed, a homeowner and their guests can begin using an infrared sauna frequently without worry of energy consumption costs, maintenance, and repair.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in general contractors in Orange County, Orange County ca contractors, and Orange County remodeling.
Blackout Curtains
You may not even be aware that anyone would want or need blackout curtains, and no, they don’t have to be black in color. In order to change a room from day to night you may want to invest in blackout curtains.
Before you head out to purchase the curtains, you will want to measure your window or windows and find the exact measurement. You’ll also need to know that the curtains or blinds will have to be larger than the window otherwise light will seep through the curtain’s gap. That alone will defeat your purpose.
In order to entirely blackout your windows you must allow at least two inches outside of the window itself and that is where you’ll have to install the curtain rod. If you aren’t worried how the window will look on the inside of the room, a blackout shade may work as well. But if you want the room to be stylish as well as functional there are a few things you can do in order to achieve that.
You can use an ordinary drape or curtain, with the blackout curtain liner underneath and unseen. The liner can be permanently fixed or have the ability to roll up or pulled to the side and out of the way of the window. When it is in the closed position, the room should be entirely dark with the drape or curtain also closed.
It is also important to have the correct type of window rod. If the blackout curtain will hang on the rod with rings, the rod should extend above the window so no light penetrates under the rod. There are also valances that hang above the curtain or drape on a separate rod. They can also help to block out the light.
Why would it be necessary for anyone to have a blackout curtain? For those that work while the world sleeps will then want to sleep while the world is awake. The blackout curtain will fill that bill. Also there are those that have a theater room when the room must be dark in order to show their films.
There is also another very important reason why blackout curtains would be necessary. During World War II the Americans feared Japan and Germany’s ability to bomb our country. For those old enough to recall the city would call for blackouts. Cars with the authorities driving without headlights drove through the streets to make sure no lights escaped from the windows. It was a scary time especially for small children.
Raymonde Draperies specializes in San Diego drapes, San Diego blinds and San Diego curtains.
Before you head out to purchase the curtains, you will want to measure your window or windows and find the exact measurement. You’ll also need to know that the curtains or blinds will have to be larger than the window otherwise light will seep through the curtain’s gap. That alone will defeat your purpose.
In order to entirely blackout your windows you must allow at least two inches outside of the window itself and that is where you’ll have to install the curtain rod. If you aren’t worried how the window will look on the inside of the room, a blackout shade may work as well. But if you want the room to be stylish as well as functional there are a few things you can do in order to achieve that.
You can use an ordinary drape or curtain, with the blackout curtain liner underneath and unseen. The liner can be permanently fixed or have the ability to roll up or pulled to the side and out of the way of the window. When it is in the closed position, the room should be entirely dark with the drape or curtain also closed.
It is also important to have the correct type of window rod. If the blackout curtain will hang on the rod with rings, the rod should extend above the window so no light penetrates under the rod. There are also valances that hang above the curtain or drape on a separate rod. They can also help to block out the light.
Why would it be necessary for anyone to have a blackout curtain? For those that work while the world sleeps will then want to sleep while the world is awake. The blackout curtain will fill that bill. Also there are those that have a theater room when the room must be dark in order to show their films.
There is also another very important reason why blackout curtains would be necessary. During World War II the Americans feared Japan and Germany’s ability to bomb our country. For those old enough to recall the city would call for blackouts. Cars with the authorities driving without headlights drove through the streets to make sure no lights escaped from the windows. It was a scary time especially for small children.
Raymonde Draperies specializes in San Diego drapes, San Diego blinds and San Diego curtains.
Friday, September 7, 2012
New Window Suggestions
No matter the age of your home when your old windows don’t do the job, consider new type windows. These suggestions will help you decide if you want to repair or replace your current windows. No matter the size, you will gain benefits when the windows you replace have double pane windows.
They keep out the noise that is the number one praise. Your home will once again be a place where the noise from your neighbors will be kept in their own zone. Beyond that one advantage there are others as well.
Appearance is a close second when you replace your old termite infected windows. The choice of window frames is wide when you consider the past choices. There are aluminum frames, vinyl frames and some still want the old standard wood frame. The choice is yours and yours alone.
You may think that no one could install new windows on your unusual size windows. Think again. Whether you have bay windows, sliding glass windows or doors, French doors, fixed windows, or garden windows, a professional can measure your windows and replace them without fail. Normally they can and will install new screens as well. They will even install the new green alternatives, and many offer awnings for additional shade and protection.
When you get in touch with a professional that specializes in new windows, they will be able to tell you the numerous advantages of replacing your windows. They will need to know how many windows you want replaced; and whether or not it is an emergency. The professional most often offers free quotes and like we said before, give you valuable advice.
When you’ve made the decision to replace your windows, you will need help and the faster the job gets done, the better. Otherwise you will be vulnerable with the windows removed from your home, and your new windows may be the one thing that keeps out pests and unwanted guests as well.
Check out the contractors and professionals online that specialize in window replacements. Man
y of them also have a selection of coverings in addition to the windows themselves.
Anytime you hire a specialist to come to your home, check them out first. Go online and check out their license, insurance, workers compensation and reliability. The Better Business Bureau is also a good place to check. You’ll need the business correct name, address, and license number. Never pay for a job in full, but stagger the payments with the final paid when the job is complete to your satisfaction.
Legendary Windows and Doors Specializes in Orange County Windows, Replacement Windows Orange County, and Vinyl Windows Orange County.
They keep out the noise that is the number one praise. Your home will once again be a place where the noise from your neighbors will be kept in their own zone. Beyond that one advantage there are others as well.
Appearance is a close second when you replace your old termite infected windows. The choice of window frames is wide when you consider the past choices. There are aluminum frames, vinyl frames and some still want the old standard wood frame. The choice is yours and yours alone.
You may think that no one could install new windows on your unusual size windows. Think again. Whether you have bay windows, sliding glass windows or doors, French doors, fixed windows, or garden windows, a professional can measure your windows and replace them without fail. Normally they can and will install new screens as well. They will even install the new green alternatives, and many offer awnings for additional shade and protection.
When you get in touch with a professional that specializes in new windows, they will be able to tell you the numerous advantages of replacing your windows. They will need to know how many windows you want replaced; and whether or not it is an emergency. The professional most often offers free quotes and like we said before, give you valuable advice.
When you’ve made the decision to replace your windows, you will need help and the faster the job gets done, the better. Otherwise you will be vulnerable with the windows removed from your home, and your new windows may be the one thing that keeps out pests and unwanted guests as well.
Check out the contractors and professionals online that specialize in window replacements. Man
y of them also have a selection of coverings in addition to the windows themselves.
Anytime you hire a specialist to come to your home, check them out first. Go online and check out their license, insurance, workers compensation and reliability. The Better Business Bureau is also a good place to check. You’ll need the business correct name, address, and license number. Never pay for a job in full, but stagger the payments with the final paid when the job is complete to your satisfaction.
Legendary Windows and Doors Specializes in Orange County Windows, Replacement Windows Orange County, and Vinyl Windows Orange County.
Modern Plantation Shutters
When you think of plantation shutters, you, like many others, believe they date back before the Civil War. Plantation designates the homes built by slaves in the south during that period. Modern plantation shutters bear no resemblance and there are many more choices. The shutters add a permanent addition and the value of your property increases exponentially.
Your first choice would be the exterior or interior type of shutter. Now we’re going to write about the interior plantation shutter even though both types operate in the same way. However the exterior shutters can be permanently installed and have no function other than to add beauty and individualism to your property.
The interior shutter still provides privacy as well as protection when they are closed. They are easy to use and when you want more for your windows, you can add draperies or curtains without obstructing their use.
When you desire painted shutters to blend with the same color as the room where you install them, the choice would be wood. Vinyl shutters often come in white or off-white colors, but you can change the color of paint on vinyl modern plantation shutters as often as you paint your room. They may need a special paint to adhere.
Modern plantation shutters also give you the choice to control whether or not light enters your room. When you close the louvers tight the room becomes darker, and you can open the louvers while the shutter is still sitting against your window. So you choose from dark to light and all the way in between.
So besides privacy and protection you’ll find the modern plantation shutter comparatively easy to install. They are easy to use and they don’t just sit there collecting dust but when they do, they’re easy to clean. The modern dusters that don’t rely on feathers work well, and when they need extra cleaning a damp cloth works well especially on the vinyl shutters.
If you’re unsure about the installation of your shutters that will be permanently installed, you may want to call in a professional. One good thing about a professional installation, if they make a mistake while measuring, they will order new shutters and of course there will be no charge for the error.
When you do the job yourself, you may be paying double and the increase in costs won’t be absorbed.
Unusual size windows will be no problem and the advice you receive from a professional will be well worth your efforts.
Golden West Shutters Specializes in Lake Forest Shutters, Orange County Shutters, and Plantation Shutters Los Angeles.
Your first choice would be the exterior or interior type of shutter. Now we’re going to write about the interior plantation shutter even though both types operate in the same way. However the exterior shutters can be permanently installed and have no function other than to add beauty and individualism to your property.
The interior shutter still provides privacy as well as protection when they are closed. They are easy to use and when you want more for your windows, you can add draperies or curtains without obstructing their use.
When you desire painted shutters to blend with the same color as the room where you install them, the choice would be wood. Vinyl shutters often come in white or off-white colors, but you can change the color of paint on vinyl modern plantation shutters as often as you paint your room. They may need a special paint to adhere.
Modern plantation shutters also give you the choice to control whether or not light enters your room. When you close the louvers tight the room becomes darker, and you can open the louvers while the shutter is still sitting against your window. So you choose from dark to light and all the way in between.
So besides privacy and protection you’ll find the modern plantation shutter comparatively easy to install. They are easy to use and they don’t just sit there collecting dust but when they do, they’re easy to clean. The modern dusters that don’t rely on feathers work well, and when they need extra cleaning a damp cloth works well especially on the vinyl shutters.
If you’re unsure about the installation of your shutters that will be permanently installed, you may want to call in a professional. One good thing about a professional installation, if they make a mistake while measuring, they will order new shutters and of course there will be no charge for the error.
When you do the job yourself, you may be paying double and the increase in costs won’t be absorbed.
Unusual size windows will be no problem and the advice you receive from a professional will be well worth your efforts.
Golden West Shutters Specializes in Lake Forest Shutters, Orange County Shutters, and Plantation Shutters Los Angeles.
New Home Additions: Your Personal Exercise Room
So you're a homeowner who's done with small home improvement projects and wants to move on to something large. You're also the type of person who likes to stay in shape but you hate driving to the gym five or six days a week. If this is truly the case then you should seriously consider having an add-on room built onto your home that functions as a mini gym or exercise room.
Having a dedicated exercise space in your home will allow you to avoid having to spend time in the car when you could be spending it working out. It also helps to motivate homeowners who procrastinate about visiting the gym simply because it's too far away, traffic's to heavy, or there isn't enough time to go. You will want to keep in mind that while the construction itself may initially have a high cost you don't have to have gym quality equipment in your new exercise room to make it work for you.
Unless you have the money left over after construction has been completed you'll want to begin shopping for exercise equipment that is both affordable and functional. Many homeowners are surprised at just how affordable simple treadmills, exercise bikes, punching bags, and little things like jump ropes really are. Additionally homeowners will want to buy affordable exercise equipment so that they can save money for things like television sets and some type of sound system for their exercise room. You may be motivated to exercise simply by having your own room in which to do so and expensive equipment might get your blood pumping but other individuals often require more to not only motivate themselves but to sustain momentum as well. If you're a hard-core health enthusiast you may even want to consider having a refrigerator put in somewhere in your new exercise room so as to have immediate access to water or sports drinks. You'll also want to have money set aside for air conditioning and ventilation as well!
You will want to be sure that when the time comes to proceed with such a project, you spend considerable time weeding through the multitude of building contractors that are available in your area. Utilizing not only the Internet and reviews but speaking with past clientele as well can reveal a lot about a contractor. Since it's difficult for many people to stay motivated and in shape, you'll want to find a contractor that best suits your needs so that you end up with an exercise room that is fun to be in, functional and when need be motivating.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in general contractors in Orange County, Orange County ca contractors, and Orange County remodeling.
Having a dedicated exercise space in your home will allow you to avoid having to spend time in the car when you could be spending it working out. It also helps to motivate homeowners who procrastinate about visiting the gym simply because it's too far away, traffic's to heavy, or there isn't enough time to go. You will want to keep in mind that while the construction itself may initially have a high cost you don't have to have gym quality equipment in your new exercise room to make it work for you.
Unless you have the money left over after construction has been completed you'll want to begin shopping for exercise equipment that is both affordable and functional. Many homeowners are surprised at just how affordable simple treadmills, exercise bikes, punching bags, and little things like jump ropes really are. Additionally homeowners will want to buy affordable exercise equipment so that they can save money for things like television sets and some type of sound system for their exercise room. You may be motivated to exercise simply by having your own room in which to do so and expensive equipment might get your blood pumping but other individuals often require more to not only motivate themselves but to sustain momentum as well. If you're a hard-core health enthusiast you may even want to consider having a refrigerator put in somewhere in your new exercise room so as to have immediate access to water or sports drinks. You'll also want to have money set aside for air conditioning and ventilation as well!
You will want to be sure that when the time comes to proceed with such a project, you spend considerable time weeding through the multitude of building contractors that are available in your area. Utilizing not only the Internet and reviews but speaking with past clientele as well can reveal a lot about a contractor. Since it's difficult for many people to stay motivated and in shape, you'll want to find a contractor that best suits your needs so that you end up with an exercise room that is fun to be in, functional and when need be motivating.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in general contractors in Orange County, Orange County ca contractors, and Orange County remodeling.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Re-insulate Your Home
When an individual wants to improve both the look and value of their home, their focus generally falls to the visible. Many homeowners will have professionals come in and clean their homes, their windows and even help them get organized in order to make the house more pleasing to the eye and in some cases to be even buyers.
While it's important to keep a home looking good, homeowners should always have functionality and comfort in the back of their mind as well. This means addressing the needs of a home that go unseen. This is where insulation comes into play. It's not very often that a homeowner will elect to have new insulation put in their home nor to have existing installation checked for problems. Installation, like all other things is entropic and slowly loses its ability to keep a homes interior environment comfortable.
Homes with functional insulation will remain warm in the winter and cool in the summer without needing air and heating units running constantly. In sharp contrast however, homes with poor or very old insulation will need to be re-heated and cooled constantly. While costs will vary from home to home, it usually costs far less to have new insulation installed right away than it does to run heating and air units for an entire season. New insulation will help homeowners cut energy costs and consumption dramatically which also gives them a chance to be more environmentally friendly; not to mention save a few dollars.
Some homeowners inevitably get caught up in trying to decide which parts of their home to have re-insulated. Homeowners should remember that it's important to have their entire home re-insulated even if they must do it piece by piece and over time. This includes not only in wall insulation but insulation for windows, doors, and even things like garage doors. Garages are typically very cold or very hot simply because homeowners ignore them and then the heat and cold is transferred from garage to home rather easily.
As is the case with many home improvement projects, the installation of insulation will most definitely require the assistance of a professional. Insulation installation is no easy task and carries with it a number of safety issues as well that only professionals know how to avoid 100% of the time.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in general contractors in Orange County, Orange County ca contractors, and Orange County remodeling.
While it's important to keep a home looking good, homeowners should always have functionality and comfort in the back of their mind as well. This means addressing the needs of a home that go unseen. This is where insulation comes into play. It's not very often that a homeowner will elect to have new insulation put in their home nor to have existing installation checked for problems. Installation, like all other things is entropic and slowly loses its ability to keep a homes interior environment comfortable.
Homes with functional insulation will remain warm in the winter and cool in the summer without needing air and heating units running constantly. In sharp contrast however, homes with poor or very old insulation will need to be re-heated and cooled constantly. While costs will vary from home to home, it usually costs far less to have new insulation installed right away than it does to run heating and air units for an entire season. New insulation will help homeowners cut energy costs and consumption dramatically which also gives them a chance to be more environmentally friendly; not to mention save a few dollars.
Some homeowners inevitably get caught up in trying to decide which parts of their home to have re-insulated. Homeowners should remember that it's important to have their entire home re-insulated even if they must do it piece by piece and over time. This includes not only in wall insulation but insulation for windows, doors, and even things like garage doors. Garages are typically very cold or very hot simply because homeowners ignore them and then the heat and cold is transferred from garage to home rather easily.
As is the case with many home improvement projects, the installation of insulation will most definitely require the assistance of a professional. Insulation installation is no easy task and carries with it a number of safety issues as well that only professionals know how to avoid 100% of the time.
Home Improvement Guide specializes in general contractors in Orange County, Orange County ca contractors, and Orange County remodeling.
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