Difference Between Contemporary and Modern Furniture

Contemporary furniture and modern furniture are not necessarily similar, although they may seem very similar to each other. Contemporary is referring to a set of aesthetics while modern is relating to a school of design.

Contemporary and modern pieces of furniture have become very prominent lately. Both have made their way to elegant furniture boutiques because of their classy and interesting designs. Although, they both share some common stylistic designs, yet, they are not of the same classification.

Contemporary furniture

Contemporary would refer to a set of furniture belonging to the same time frame. And, it does not matter what time frame it belongs to. Take for example a 1970's contemporary dining room. It would mean that all the pieces in the dining room are all made during the 1970's. A contemporary style of furniture would normally relate to a style that uses modern materials such as chrome, glass, and metal. The overall composition of a contemporary style furniture would incorporate sharp edges, angles, and asymmetrical lines. One thing you would notice about a contemporary design is its smooth texture with less carvings and other decorative details. There are many contemporary styles that greatly vary depending on the country or place they originate. Japanese contemporary, being popular nowadays, has its own style that uses a low surface, a straight line, and a simple design. There is also a European contemporary, as well as American contemporary, which are both popular too with their own distinct touch of style.

Modern furniture

Modern style of furniture would rather focus itself on modernism as its best description. The word modern is basically referring to a school of design. In other words, it does not actually refer to the time frame in which the pieces of furniture were made. Modernism primarily focuses on the function of the furniture. Although, later on it became a blend of modern arts concepts regarding furniture designs. Modern furniture pieces are mostly made of plastic or molded plywood materials. This style of furniture has greatly been inspired from Japan and Asia. The Japanese look in Western furniture is remarkable. It had a striking impact when it first came out towards the end of the 19th century. In fact, one of the most famous contemporary pieces is the Noguchi coffee table. This was designed by a Japanese-American. On the other hand, during the 1920's, Bauhaus school in Germany had a number of designers who revolutionized the look of modern furniture. Indeed, the Werkbund which is also in Germany has manufactured modern furniture that were wonderfully crafted. Moreover, modern furniture is definitely effective in providing aesthetic and functional benefits. A collection of this pieces are designed to fit various sizes of space without foregoing their functionality.

5 Tips to Help You Find the Right Apartment for a More Comfortable Living

Finding the right apartment takes a lot consideration. You need to look for a favorable location, consider what you can afford, think of what you really need, ask for recommendations from people you trust, and visit different units in order to find the perfect place for you to live in.

Moving is not that easy. Aside from adjusting to a new environment, you need to find a place to rent that will suit all your needs. To help you find the perfect apartment unit, here are some helpful tips:

Look for a favorable location

When searching for an apartment, the number one thing to consider is the neighborhood. Nobody wants to live in place that is unsafe. Maybe you want a peaceful place where you can really relax when work is done, without so much noise from the outside. Furthermore, you also need to consider the accessibility of your apartment from your office. Walking distance is a great advantage. However, if you cannot find an affordable place near your place of work, at least make sure it is accessible to public transportation. See if there is a hospital or convenience stores and groceries nearby for more convenience. If you have children who will attend school, it would also be great to find an apartment close to it.

Consider what you can afford

Affordability is a must here. You need to consider how much you can afford on an apartment. This is where your priorities are tested. Considering that your budget is limited, it does not necessarily mean that you will have to rent apartments that are old, dirty, and mismanaged. Another option for you could be getting a nice room but with very limited space and less amenities or an apartment that is inaccessible. It is all up your priorities. To help you lessen your rent, consider having an extra room rented out by a person you can trust.

Think of what you really need

Next, you have to consider your basic needs in an apartment. You need to go into details like the number of levels or floors you prefer, the number of rooms, the room sizes, the number of bathrooms, the kitchen size, the heating and cooling systems, and whether or no you need a balcony or other additional features. If you have a pet, look for a place where pets are allowed. Do you want a building with an elevator or a ramp? Do they have laundry services or a fitness gym? Make sure the location is safe, too. Are the locks reliable? Is there an emergency exit? These things are very important for you to consider so you can decide which apartment is right for you.

Ask for recommendations from people you trust

Before you go checking out apartments, ask family and friends if they happen to know a good place you can rent according to your specifications. You can also consider using the services of a broker, but be sure that your broker is reliable. It is also advisable not to rely on only one broker so you can increase your options. Aside from this, you can also check out the Internet for online listings. This is especially helpful when you are planning for a temporary business or vacation stay in a foreign country, where you have no friends or relatives residing in the place. Just make sure you’re searching on the right website and that you review client feedback and reviews. In addition, to help make your search a lot easier, just type in the place where you wish to stay and the word “apartment.” For example, type Tangier apartment if you wish to find a place to rent in Tangier.

Visit different units

As much as possible, visit as many apartments as you can, but never waste your time visiting the ones that do not meet your basic needs. When visiting prospects, check on the lights, the faucet, and other important features to make sure they really work. Do not hesitate to ask questions about repainting when it's needed before you move in, as well as other repairs needed. Try to negotiate the rent and ask for vacancy rates. This will help you determine whether the apartment is well-managed or not. Talk to neighbors, too. They will provide you with important information about the place and the landlord.

Looking for an apartment can be very stressful, but as long as you know your needs and your limits, you search will be a lot easier. Negotiate and keep your composure when questioning things to keep good relations with a prospective landlord.

4 Major Types of Sunburst Wall Decorations for a Complementing Wall Design

Major types of sunburst wall decals such as wood, metal, terracotta, and ceramic can complement in designing any wall space.

Sunburst wall decorations are attractive wall decals perfect for wall centerpieces. These have become very popular for their exquisite use of different types of materials. These wall decals can complement your wall depending on the types of materials that the buy sunburst wall decor is made of. Sunburst wall designs can actually be made from incorporating different types of materials. However, below are the major types of materials that are generally used to make a sunburst wall decoration:

Wood

Sunburst wall decorations that are made of wood are the most versatile type of material that can be incorporated to any sunburst wall decals. Wood gives any wall space an earthy look. Wood element could also enhance the popular geometric design of sunburst wall decals. It can also give a three dimensional texture. Driftwood are also very popular as an additional accent in most sunburst designed wall decors. Wood designs are also reflecting soft-spoken edges that can complement any furniture styles near the wall.

Metal

Metal is the most popular material that is commonly used in sunburst wall decorations. Most sunburst designs are made from brass, iron, bronze, or silver metal. Since sunburst mirrors are also one of the most popular design, metals such as silver or brass could best complement the whole structure. Metal is also very contemporary and modern. Using this material could complement the modern interior and abstract design of any themed wall. Clocks, sun faces, and mirrors are the most common designs that uses any type of metal materials. Bronze and aluminum metals are also very common materials. These are used to emphasize modern art design that completes your wall furnishings.

Terracotta

Sunburst wall decorations can also be made from terracotta clays. This type of sunburst decal is perfect to complement garden walls of green houses. Such material is perfect for an environment-friendly themed wall. Terracotta sunburst wall decal emphasized a rustic designed centerpiece. Sunburst decals made of terracotta are also very durable and economical. Sculptured terracotta clay can be a very attractive wall hanging as the burnt clay is a very exquisite finished itself. The rustic appeal of terracotta sunburst wall decals is great for both indoor and outdoor use which best complements any garden patio or walk ways.

Ceramic

Though ceramic is not an ideal material used for sunburst wall decals, some designs requires these type of materials to fully accentuate a sunburst design. Ceramic sunburst wall decals are a fragile type of wall hanging that best completes a marble finished wall. These types of sunburst wall decals may not be common but can be very effective to complement sophistication on a themed wall design.

Sunburst wall decoration also adds light and a sense of space to your home. These sunburst diametric designs makes your wall more attractive. It adds more texture to the wall's flat dimension. Upon using the different types of sunburst wall decals you could surely complement any type of wall designs that suits your taste and style.

4 Great Techniques on How to Fix Curling Area Rugs on Laminate Flooring

Curling area rugs on laminate flooring is a common problem. But you can fix this problem with these techniques: reverse rolling, ironing and steaming, placing heavy objects, and utilizing rug tapes.

An area rug is one of the basic necessities in interior design. It has become one of the few versatile home decorations. Just by laying it on the floor, it can instantly improve and beautify any room, whether it is the living room, bedroom, hallway, or dining area. The only problem about it is it keeps on curling especially when they are placed in areas where people usually stay or walk around. And it sure does not look good in that way inside the house. But this problem is nothing to be worried about because they can be fixed when you do the following:

Reverse rolling

Most area rugs have latex at their backs to hold up its foundation or the back weaving. Latex is a pliable material so there is a tendency that when your rugs curl up, they will stay in the same way unless you do something about it. One very easy way to fix it up is by doing the reverse rolling technique. Just roll half of the rug’s length on the opposite direction of its curl and leave it for a few minutes. It gets rid of the curl after you unroll it.

Ironing and Steaming

Applying heat or steam is another way to fix curled up rugs. They work effectively as they do with any fabric. All you need is a flat iron or steamer. Uncurl the curled part of the rug and press a damp cloth to soften the fabric. Set the iron and steamer in normal temperature and press it on the rug until it straightens out.

Placing heavy objects

Another way to fix this problem is by placing heavy objects over the curled part of the rug. This could be the sofa, table, or any other furniture. Their weight will help flatten the rug out, though you have to disarrange some of your furniture at home for a while. But if you want to fix it without distorting the arrangement of your furniture, you can also stack some of your books on the rug. Use those that are large and heavy like encyclopedias, almanacs or dictionaries. If you really want to flatten the whole rug, try putting it under your mattress. Just make sure that you put it in the right position before flattening it out. You can leave it for several days or until you think that it’s already fixed.

Utilizing rug tapes

Rug tapes keep and hold your rugs in place even in high traffic areas. The good thing is they don’t cause any harm to your floor.

5 Effective Methods on How to Keep Accent Rugs in Place

To keep accent rugs in place, all you have to do is place them under the furniture, put some non-slip rug tapes or strips, apply non-skid rug coating or sprays, put stay-put rug pads underneath them, and sew some Velcro unto the rug for carpet floors.

Whether your floor is laminate, hardwood, tile, carpet or marble, putting accent rugs on your floor is a great idea to decorate your space. They add color and details to your room as well as give a comforting and welcoming atmosphere to it. But, you might have noticed that they keep on moving around especially when you place them in high-trafficked areas like the living room, and you often find yourself always putting them back in places where they belong. But you need not worry about this problem anymore because below are simple solutions in keeping your accent rugs in place:

Place rugs under the furniture

One way to keep rugs from moving and keeping them in place is by placing them under the furniture. Heavy furniture can do the trick. It could be the sofa in the living room, the tables and chairs in the dining room, or the bed. The weight of the furniture will prevent the rugs from wandering on the floor.

Put non-slip rug tapes or strips

Non-slip rug tapes or strips can also be placed at the backside of your rugs to keep them in place. They are available in rolls at affordable prices. They also are removable and have no damaging effects to whatever flooring you have. They also prevent rugs from curling. When using these, make sure your floor and rug are clean and dry so that the adhesives stick properly. Cut into appropriate lengths and press them at the back. Make sure to place a tape or strip to each side of the rug and in the middle. Remove the liner to expose the other sticky side of the tape before laying the rug on the floor. Test the rug if it still moves. Add more tapes when needed.

Apply non-skid rug coating or sprays

Rug coating and sprays are alternatives to rug tapes and strips. Tapes and strips aren’t machine washable so they strip off quickly when washed. The coating and sprays hold very well so you may not have to reapply them often. They are applied at the back of the rug and when dried it will form a non-slip coating. They also keep rugs in shape and prevent them from shredding.

Put stay-put rug pads under the rug

Rug pads are textured mats made of rubber material that adheres to surfaces. They are excellent in keeping rugs from moving around. They can be purchased at sizes similar to your rug or larger in which you can cut into appropriate sizes yourself. They not only prevent rugs from slipping but they also make rugs easier to vacuum and help prolong its life.

Sew some Velcro unto the rug

Sewing some Velcro at the back of your rugs can keep them in place in carpet flooring. Sew the ‘teeth’ part of the Velcro at the back of your rug and place them on the carpeted floor. The ‘teeth’ will hold on the carpet fiber thus it prevents the rug from moving.

6 Important Considerations that Will Help You Decide Whether You Should Renovate Your Own Bathroom or Hire a Contractor

In deciding whether you should remodel your bathroom yourself or hire a professional contractor, you need to consider your budget, the type of remodeling you are going to have, your willingness to do all the work, your skills, your time, and the people who will work inside your house.

There are some renovations and remodeling at home that you can do all by yourself, but there are those that will require a professional contractor to do it for you. The question now is, if you want to remodel your bathroom, how will you know when you can do it yourself to save on costs and when to deal with a contractor? The following factors will help you make the wisest decision:

Your budget

This is probably the foremost thing you need to consider before you even think of even hiring a contractor. Many homeowners decide to do all the hard work for renovating their houses to save on costs of hiring a professional contractor. So how much is your budget, really? Ask for quotations from contractors and bathroom remodelers. If you can afford to hire them and you are quite hesitant to do the remodeling yourself, then there is no problem. But if your budget is just enough to cover the needed materials and fixtures, you might want to renovate your bathroom yourself.

Type of remodeling you are going to have

Ask yourself what type of renovation you are going to do and how complex the renovation is going to be. There are certain bathroom renovation jobs wherein your are going to need the service of a professional bathroom remodeler, such as window replacement and shower tiling. If it is just shower retiling or doing uncomplicated tiling tasks like vinyl tiling, you can probably just do it yourself to save on costs. You can also do toilet installation by yourself.

Your willingness to do all the work

Even if you can do the remodeling of the bathroom yourself, are you really willing to do all the work? Consider all the job you need to such as estimation, the canvassing, and purchasing of materials. Are you willing to sacrifice your weekends or even staying up late at night to finish the renovation yourself? Think also of the injuries you might get in remodeling your bathroom. Determine what equipment you might be using and how risky they would be for an amateur like you. However, if you have done other renovation projects for your home in the past, this might not be a great concern for you and you may not think of getting a contractor to do the renovation for you.

Your skills

Before you decide to remodel your bathroom yourself, try asking if you have the skills needed to do it yourself. Can you really do it all by yourself? If you need to rewire something in your bathroom or replace your shower heater, for example, be sure you know how to go through it. Make sure you know the techniques in getting things done. It is also important if you have had experience working on simpler home renovation projects to gain some skills and expertise. Furthermore, ask yourself if you can handle it when things go wrong or when you encounter some renovation problems? When you hire a professional contractor, you can be sure that they have the skills and expertise to get things done. When problems arise, they can find solutions more easily as they are more exposed to such challenges. When you encounter some glitches with your remodeled bathroom, your contractor can guarantee you for back jobs within a certain period of time, free of charge, without having to work and spend on the fixing yourself.

Your time

Another equally important thing you need to consider is your time. Do you really have the time to renovate the bathroom yourself? You may say that you can do it on weekends and probably spend some late night work for it, but can you finish the job in such a time that does not give much hassle to its users? If the remodeling needed is very minimal, then maybe you can do it yourself and save a lot of money. If it is quite complicated and you think that it will take you weeks or even months to finish it, maybe you can hire a contractor to do it for you. Contractors may have two or more men working on your bathroom, depending on the nature of your bathroom remodeling, to get things done within a reasonable period of time.

People who will be working inside your house

If you renovate your bathroom yourself, you would not have to worry about the people inside your house or maybe in your room as opposed to hiring a contractor. If you plan hiring a bathroom remodeler, ask yourself if you are comfortable with people working inside your house. Is there someone who can look after them to give you peace of mind while you are away? It is not that you do not trust contractors, but there are just some people who are not comfortable with strangers working inside their homes and this is one thing you need to consider.

These are just some of the important things you need to consider when you are torn between doing bathroom remodeling yourself or hiring a professional contractor. On the other hand, you may also think of other alternatives, such as doing part of the renovation yourself and leaving the rest to the contractor to save on costs. At the same time, you will save yourself from doing the more complicated and strenuous part of your bathroom remodeling.

7 Necessary Features of a Kitchen Design for a Great Cooking Experience

Cooking has to be convenient and fun at the same time. A great kitchen design features ample workspace; convenient layout; appropriate cabinetry and counter tops; efficient appliances; substantial lighting; safe and clean flooring; and proper ventilation.

A great kitchen varies from one household to another as different households have different kitchen needs and sizes. There are standards, though, that help you decide on your kitchen details to come up with the most convenient and multi-functional kitchen for your home. Here are the best features a kitchen design must have to make cooking a convenient and fun experience for you and your family:

Ample workspace

Kitchens do not need to be spacious; however, they must have enough room for you to roam around and do your chores. Arrange movable appliances in such a way that they do not get in your way when doing daily kitchen routine. There must ample workspace for your cooking and food preparation needs for you and your family. There are a lot of remodeling contractors in your area that can help you design your kitchen. Delaware kitchen remodeling contractors, for example, can help you utilize every inch of your kitchen space.

Convenient layout

When you think of a great kitchen, what comes into your mind is something that is convenient, organized, and even stylish. Choose a layout that is perfect for your needs and pleasing to your senses. Put into mind the appliances and utensils you have, the drawers and cabinets you need, as well as your breakfast nook. If you have a big kitchen space, consider putting an island to save yourself from crossing one side to another. It also gives you more space for storing your utensils and your goods, as well as more seating space. Furthermore, think of where and how to conveniently put your cook top, your exhaust system, your faucet, and everything else you need.

Appropriate cabinetry and counter tops

Along with planning for the layout of your kitchen, think of the cabinets and drawers you will need for all your kitchen stuff. Do you want to display your utensils and gadgets or do you want them kept in drawers? Would you consider a solid wood for your cabinets where you stock your formal party plates and glasses or would you go for glass cabinets? Not only will you need to regard the style of your fixtures, but the also how many of them you're going to need. Consider also the type of counter tops you're going to use on different areas of your kitchen.

Efficient appliances

How do you want to work in a kitchen with lots of appliances, cluttered everywhere, consuming a lot of your time and energy cooking? Modern kitchen designs, feature multi-function appliances that help you save not only space for your kitchen, but also energy and time. Get rid of those outdated appliances that do not cooperate with your electric bills and leave you behind the fast-paced trend. Find appliances that are also user and environment-friendly, as well as those that are safer to use and easier to clean and maintain.

Substantial lighting

There are three types of lighting you need to consider to make your kitchen more efficient and elegant. These are overall lighting for ease in overall food preparation routine, task lighting for specific tasks like cook top lighting , and ambient lighting for a cozy kitchen feel. Make sure your kitchen is well-lit to make cooking easier and more convenient for you.

Safe and clean flooring

Kitchen floors have to be slip-resistant to avoid accident when preparing food. Put non-slip rugs on areas that are prone to water and other spills, such as near faucets, refrigerators, and dishwashers. Choose flooring that is easy to clean and maintain and one that will last long.

Proper ventilation

A great kitchen finally possesses good ventilation system, from kitchen windows to exhausts systems. Make sure your kitchen does not suffocate you and does not cook your sweat out while preparing your meals. Check out modern exhaust systems for different kitchen designs, including downdraft exhaust system that can be placed in your kitchen island with your cook top for a more pleasant-looking and efficient kitchen.

Your kitchen design need not be state-of-the art and outright expensive. What is important is that all the important features should not be left out to make cooking more convenient for you. Be aware of your specific needs so as to choose the right kitchen details. Do not let those alluring designs in magazines and on the Internet dictate your design, but rather let your instincts work for a guaranteed great cooking experience.

4 Important Lighting Tips for a Functional and Cozy Bedroom

To achieve a functional and cozy bedroom, proper use of lighting is essential. Simply follow these tips: combine general lighting and task lighting; emphasize the attractive spots in your room; get to know the different lighting types; and, ensure a correct placement of tasks lighting.

Your bedroom should have ample light source coupled with the right choice of lighting. Your choice of bedroom lighting depends greatly on your needs and regular activities. Proper lighting provides a great place for relaxation and rest. Here are some tips on lighting to give you a comfortable bedroom:

Combine general lighting and task lighting

Your bedroom lighting should be able to provide enough light source for general activities and other specific tasks such as reading and doing some crafts such as sewing. Lights with dimmer controls are highly useful since they provide some variety in the amount of light they provide. Here are some ways of combining the use of lighting in your bedroom:

• a bedside fixture such as a swing-arm lamp can be used to brighten your bedtime tasks. If you wish to illuminate your room with too bright lights, you can add some soft light sources like candles or a fireplace maybe.


• if you want your bed to be the focus of your room, you can use a recessed lighting near or over the head portion of the bed to create some dramatic effect.


• if you are an active individual and would want your room to be flooded with bright yet warm lights, you can use a combination of overhead and uplight fixtures.

Emphasize the attractive spots in your room

To emphasize the beautiful decors and attractive art works on your walls, you can use some lights to specifically highlight them. Moreover, make sure that your dresser should not have distracting shadows around it. You can do this by using some side lights or a head light.

Get to know the different lighting types

Basically, there are four types of lighting. They are as follows:

• ambient lighting - this light is the most practical type of lighting that imitates a natural light. This lighting envelopes the whole room space uniformly. Its light comes from an overhead and central fixture.


• task lighting - this is intended to brighten a particular task or area. Generally, it should have the capacity to provide sufficient lighting that focuses on one spot only.


• accent lighting - is also called point-source lighting. Its purpose is to provide strong light to a particular focal point. This lighting is utilized in illuminating a vase or a wall art in your room.


• kinetic lighting - this is a type of light that is designed to be in motion such as flickering and dancing. This is intended to create some dramatic effects. You can have mirror balls, candlelights, and lava lamps.

Ensure a correct placement of tasks lighting

Proper placement of your tasks lighting should be carefully considered. You should be mindful that every specific task light has its equivalent placement measurement which you should follow.

• your dressing table should have two lights that are 36 inches away from each other. And, the height of the lights from the base of the table should be about 15 inches.


• if your dressing table reaches your waist, make sure that your lighting's height is about 22 inches from the top of the dresser.


• if you go for some lamps for bedside reading, just see to it that the bottom part of your light is about 20 inches above the level of the bed.


• a desk lamp should be 15 inches from the desk surface regardless of whether it is mounted on a wall or not.

The right choice of lighting will definitely create a snug ambiance. Choosing to have custom lighting fixtures in your bedroom would spell a lot of difference. These will surely make your room look even more fantastic.

Advantages and Disadvantages of a Home Addition

Home addition presents its own advantages and disadvantages. It adds space to your house; it increases the value of your house; you can design the room addition yourself; you can choose between custom-made or prefabricated room addition. On the contrary, it lessens your lawn or backyard space; it increases household expenses; and you would have to deal with the hassles of an ongoing construction in your own home.

Adding a room in your house requires a lot of consideration. The question is, are you really willing to add a room in the current home you're living in? Here are the benefits and disadvantages of room additions you may want to consider:

It adds space to your house

Unlike simply remodeling your house or trying to find means to utilize some rooms in your house, a room addition practically adds more space to your house. It helps avoid overcrowding and inefficient arrangement of household furniture and items.

It increases the value of your house

Because something new is added to your house, it follows an increase in your home value. If you're planning to sell your house, the selling price would be considerably higher than your original place. It does not, however, guarantee you from recovering the costs in adding your room.

You can design the room addition yourself

The good thing about room addition is that you can design the room yourself according to your specifications, with the help of your home designer or architect. The room addition will be able to meet the needs and desires you specify. This is especially rewarding when the house you live in is already built when you bought it.

You can choose between custom-made or prefabricated room addition

Unlike building a new home, you can either choose between custom-made or prefabricated room addition. Aside from giving you more freedom to choose among different designs and styles, a room addition is more friendly to your budget. If you want a more economical room addition, you can resort to prefabricated room additions. Browse the Internet for different contractors on room additions, as well as manufacturers of prefabricated room additions. To make your search easier, do a search according to location. If you are located somewhere in Delaware, then look for contractors specializing in Delaware home additions.

It lessens your lawn or backyard space

Though a room addition offers many benefits, you need to be aware of its disadvantages. It lessens the space in your lawn or backyard, not unless you are planning to build another floor level. Make sure you are willing to give up that space in your backyard that may be gone forever.

It increases household expenses

With additional room comes additional expenses. Expect higher electricity bills, as well as other expenses related to the maintenance of the new room. You will also be paying higher property taxes with your room addition.

You would have to deal with the hassles of an ongoing construction in your own home

When planning to add a room in your house, be ready for loud noises starting early in the morning that come with demolition and room construction itself. You would also have to deal with dust and all the mess in your area.

A room addition is practically the best option if your current house is still sturdy, but limited in space. Make sure you know the conditions of adding a new room to your house to fully enjoy the new look and feel of your house.

5 Important Features to Look For in a Rug to Make Your Room Look Fabulous

Hunting for the best runner rugs that will complement your room won’t be so hard once you look for the following features: color, texture, size and shape, material used and design.

Rugs are excellent room/floor decorators. But, searching for the right rugs seems like a chore for there are so many kinds to choose from. This shouldn’t be done in a hurry if you really want the best ornament for your home. The features below will serve as a guide to help you find the perfect rug you've been looking for.

Color

The first feature to look for is the color of the rug. It shouldn’t clash with the hue of the walls itself. The flooring should also be taken into consideration. Bear in mind that the color of the furniture should also be counted. Colors can play tricks in one’s mind such as choosing bland and pastel colored rugs to give off a spacious vibe. Darker and deeper colors endow are room with a cozy feeling, a warm atmosphere and a sense of relaxation. On the other hand, if you prefer rugs decorated with bold patterns with intricate designs, this would best fit with simple and monochromatic furniture. To avoid putting your guest into confusion, take the stated guides into thought.

Texture

Another way to affix a certain kind of feeling is through the texture of a rug. If you prefer a soft and cozy feeling, a fluffy-looking rug in pastel colors would fit this specification. Then again, some prefers a sophisticated look. This can be attained through choosing a rug with elaborate patterns. If you fancy a mod style of room, a rug of monochromatic hue will suit best.

Size and Shape

The size of a rug should depend on the area you want to cover. You don’t want to make you room look packed. A room should always have a welcoming vibe, not a suffocating one. Modern area rugs come in different sizes and shapes. There are ones for a long hallway, for round tables, to name a few. Don’t lose hope because there is always one out there that would be perfect.

Material used

Before purchasing a rug, check on the material used with a keen eye. Hand-woven rugs are of the best quality since each strand is tightly interlaced. Also, examine the back portion of the rug. If the pattern at the back is seen, then that rug deserves a thumbs-up. Reversely, if the back portion is covered with a cloth-like layer, expect that it wouldn’t last long because after some time, it will leave a cotton-like residue on the floor. Good looks plus quality equals perfect choice.

Design

There are loads of runner rugs to choose from. The advantage of modern area rugs is that each one is not exactly identical to the other. A distinct way to reveal your true personality is how you decorate your home. Styles like Persian rugs and Oriental rugs pose a great deal of choice. The appealing plus to rugs is that you may settle in two or more so long as it will match the natural ambiance in your room.

Gaze at your room for a few seconds and think about what areas you would like to focus on. What’s unique to rugs is that each perspective gives a cool vibe.

History and Types of Bunk Beds

The idea of bunk beds is thought to have come from ancient Egyptians who used the similar concept of loft beds. To date, there are different types of bunk beds made from different materials you can choose from, offering great benefits and uses.

Bunk beds have gained its popularity because of their space-saving and multi-purpose benefits. What really are bunk beds and where did they come from? Here are some information on bunk beds you might find interesting:

Idea of bunk beds

Bunk beds are made up of two beds, one on top of the other. A frame supports these two beds, along with a ladder going to the top bed. There is really no evidence on how the use of bunk beds began or where it started. However, during the ancient times, the Egyptians who introduced the use of beds, were found to have utilized a loft bed, which is similar to that of a bunk bed. Others consider it as a type of bunk bed.

Bunk beds are ideal for rooms with limited floor space, such as small rooms, dorms, military camps, and even ships. They are also fun for your kids who are sharing the same room. These bunk beds are usually made up of wood or metal.

Different types of bunk beds

There are different types of bunk beds you can choose from according to your needs. These bunk beds vary in style and size of beds used. The most common types are twin over twin, twin over full, L-shaped, three bunk beds, and futon bunk bed.

• Twin over twin. This is simply described as a twin-sized bunk bed on top of another twin bunk bed. Otherwise known as standard bunk bed, this is the most common type of bunk bed available in the market and sought after by users because it saves a lot of space.


• Twin over full. This type of bunk bed is a twin-sized bed on top of a full-sized bed. You can also choose other bed size combination, such as full over full bunk beds, depending on your needs and the size of bed your room can accommodate.


• L-shaped. This type of bunk bed is designed in a such a way that it forms an L when viewed from the top. The bottom bed is positioned forming a right angle with the top bed. The other side is usually utilized as a working or study table great for you and your kids or designed with drawers.


• Three bunk beds. When you have only one room for your three kids, you can save a lot of space with this type of bed. It features two twin-sized beds on top, perpendicular to each other, and one twin or full-sized bed at the bottom. Same with an L-shaped bunk bed, the extra space at the bottom can be utilized depending on your kids' needs.


• Futon bunk beds. Futon bunk beds are very practical for small rooms and apartments, where you can integrate a couch and bed with one piece of furniture. This type of bunk beds are designed with a twin or full top bed and a bottom bed, usually full-sized, that can be converted into a couch for day use.

It is great to see how bunk beds have evolved from standard bunk beds to sophisticated futon beds and fun loft beds, allowing you to choose from many different styles that suit your needs. Bunk beds nowadays do not only help you with your limited room space, but they also satisfy your style and help create a fun room for your kids to sleep, play, and study.

8 Things to Consider when Buying a Mattress

In order to get the best deal in buying a mattress, here are a number of things that you should consider: warranty, price, size, coil, firmness, side support, ticking, and brand.

Selecting the right mattress needs some careful attention. If you want to have the best in terms of quality and price, then scrutinize before making the purchase. Below are important things that you should consider:

Warranty

When you buy a mattress, make sure it has a ten year warranty. Also, ask regarding proration. It means the percentage, basing from the original cost of the mattress, that the manufacturer should pay you for any defects that may have occurred. It is important to note that a warranty claim will not be honored should the mattress be found with stains on it. It is advisable to buy a cover that is waterproof to protect it from any stain.

Price

Prices of mattresses are definitely negotiable. Although, not all. But, most of the leading brands are willing to negotiate with their price. It is just a matter of learning how to use your bargaining skill with a salesman. And, if a discount isn't possible, then maybe you can ask for free pillows or sheets perhaps, that can go along with the purchase of the mattress.

Size

Consider the user's height in picking a mattress. If you are about 6 feet tall, then choose a king size bed. If you and your partner are under 6 feet tall, a queen size bed will do.

Coil

Coil count is a very essential factor in choosing for a mattress. The higher the count becomes, the better the quality of your mattress. A standard mattress should have about a count of 300. A queen size should have 375 coil count. And, a king size mattress should have 450 coil count.

Firmness

Choose a mattress that is neither too soft nor too firm. A very firm one isn't very good for you since it might cause your spine to bend forcefully.

Side support

The edges of a mattress is as important as the middle portion. Check whether the sides can provide you with maximum support too.

Ticking

Ticking, which is the fabric used to upholster and cover your mattress, should be made of damask. And, not of polyester or vinyl since any of these materials can make you feel really uncomfortable during a warm weather.

Brand

It pays to choose the leading brands when purchasing a mattress. It may be a little expensive compared to other brands, but, it's worth your money anyway. Oftentimes, a manufacturer of cheap mattresses would cut corners in making them so as to offer attractive low prices.

There are several types of mattresses to choose from, yet, many would go for a futon mattress particularly a western futon. This is because it is inexpensive. And, this type of mattress is relatively firm making it a good choice to sleep on.

9 Things to Look For in Choosing a House Plan to Build a Decent and Affordable House

In building a decent and affordable house, you need to choose your house plan carefully. All you have to do is choose a house plan that is less than 1,500 square-footage, 2-storey rather than a large one-story building, with simple roof lines, with garages or porches, has one or no fireplace, minimum hall space, combined plumbing system, simple fixtures, and no basement.

Budget is one of the many things to consider in building a home. You need a house plan that will satisfy not only you and your family but your pockets as well. To build a decent and affordable house, here are things that you should look for in a house plan:

Less than 1,500 square-footage

Go for a plan that only has low square-footage. Usually, building a home that covers more than 1,500 square feet cost more than building a house with a plan lesser than the 1,500 perimeter. This is because builders charge a per-square-foot cost. This would even go up when the plan is larger or more complex. A smaller home also fit to any decent lot and you will also be coinciding with local building codes.

2-story than a big one-story home

A large one-story home with all rooms on the floor cost more than building a two-story house with at least three rooms on the second floor. Examples of affordable two-story house plans are the one-and-a-half story Cape Cod home style, with a bedroom and bath on the first floor and two bedrooms and another bath on the second floor, and a two-story Colonial, with equal square-footage on the both first and second floor.

With simple roof lines

It may be appealing if you have very nice roof lines, but they cost more than simpler ones. Simple roof lines cost less but still perform the same purpose like those of the interesting ones. You can also add a dormer to your sloping roof to beautify the exterior. It will not cost as much as building full complex roof lines.

With garages or porches

They are additional features in the house plan that aren’t costly at all because they are not build with all the walls closed. But they are functional in many ways and also are excellent features in the house. Like for example, the upper portion of the garage can be used as a bedroom or a terrace.

One or no fireplace

Installing a fireplace is expensive. But if you plan to have one, install one in the living room or family room. But if you would rather save the money, ditch having one and opt for heaters instead.

Minimum hall space

Hallways are effective against crowding or traffic but they definitely take up a lot of space from other areas. What is good with minimal hall space is that you can build other features of the house from it like an extra bookshelf or closet.

Combined plumbing system

Combining plumbing systems from different rooms, like the kitchen and bathroom, can cut expenses. This way you will only have to install one plumbing system for both rooms instead of installing it individually.

Simple fixtures

Save more in carpentry by building and keeping features simple like bookcases, cabinets, kitchen counters or pantry.

No basement

A basement is usually used for storage purposes. But building a house plan with a basement will cost you more than a mere solid foundation. You can choose a plan though with a two-car garage or a utility closet, at least you still have some space for storage.

3 Helpful Ways in Finding House Plans for a Beautiful Home

In order to find beautiful house plans for your future home, you can go over special home plan magazines and books, as well as different websites that sell house plans. You can also purchase downloadable computer software for a more advanced way of planning for your future house.

You can start building your dream house by going over a variety of beautiful house plans and choosing the best one as your future home. Here are some ways by which you can find endless choices of house plans:

Go over house plan magazines and books

You can ask your neighbor or a friend or you may go to your favorite bookstore and shop for magazines and books that specialize in house plans. Look for one that has the most information you need, such as the cost to build, the materials needed, and other conditions required, aside from the given lot size and floor size. Popular magazines and books include Architectural Design Magazine, Builder Magazine, Family Home Plans Magazine, and Sater Designs. These publications do not only offer beautiful house plans, but they also include articles that give you tips for an easier and more cost-effective house construction, as well as making your home a more comfortable and magnificent place to live in.

Surf the net for more house plan choices

The internet offers endless house plan choices. Most home plan magazines also have websites, where you can view house plans. You can choose from among these plans and ultimately purchase one that you really want as your home. The cost of these plans are said to usually range from as low as $600 to as high as $2,000, depending on the complexity and uniqueness of the house design. These plans usually include the foundation floor plan, detailed floor plan, roof plan, indoor and outdoor elevation, the specific materials and quantity required, as well as other specifications needed for the construction.

Some house plan websites offer a limited style and fewer number of house plans compared to the other websites, depending on their specialty. It is important to go over as much websites as you can in order to really find the dream house plan you are looking for. Look for websites that are transparent in all their costs when you want to purchase a house plan from them. It would be great to find one that allows you to compare different house plans you desire at one time. Do not hesitate to go over customer feedback and reviews to help you choose which company delivers your expectations. To help you do this, you can check out homeplaninfo.com and find a short description of the website, as well as types of houses featured, the number of house plans offered, and architect or customer reviews. It also gives you direct links to home plan websites, as well as their customer support email address and hotline numbers.

Create your own house plan using 3D computer software

There is also a modern computer software that allows you to make your own house plan. If you know nothing about house plans, there is no need to worry as this software comes with sample or free house plans you can use to start with. There are also tutorials with the package that will help you go about the process. The best thing about this software is that it enables you to view your house plan in 3D. You can visualize the details of your dream house, such as floor tiles and wall colors, with all its 3D tools and roam around the house with its virtual tour. Examples of this software are Home Design Software and Google SketchUp.

In choosing your house plan, make sure you do not get carried away by the elaborate house designs. Always put in mind your budget, the lot size you have, your location. and the other necessities you have for building a home. With so many house plan sources to choose from and the modern technology available, the beautiful house you have always dreamed of will always be within reach.

4 Distinctions of Bunk Beds, Bunk Bed Futons and Loft Beds for a Guided Shopping

Bunk beds, bunk bed futons and loft beds differ in their configuration, mattress details, ideal use and safety.

Parents often prefer bunk beds, bunk bed futons and loft beds than other sort of beds because their kids simply adore them. They are made from different materials and in different colors, most common ones are the white bunk beds. They do not only save space but also makes a room stylish and play-friendly. But one problem that shoppers are facing would be how these three differ. Find out there distinctions for a much guided shopping.

Configuration

Bunk beds are distinctive space-saving bedroom furniture pieces and they come in many styles too. A bunk bed is a twin bed, one on top of the other. Two people can sleep in a similar floor footprint. One can climb up the upper deck through a ladder. There are some bunk beds that provide another pull out bed or a storage compartment. Futon bunk beds are similar in configuration as regular bunk beds but the difference is that the lower bed of the futon bunk bed can be used as a couch. On the other hand, loft beds have a twin bed on top and an open space down low. This open space can be used as a play area by kids or a workstation by elder children. It can also be used as a mini closet.

Mattress details

A standard bunk bed has two mattresses – one twin size bed on top and another twin size bed below. Both beds cannot be folded thus they are fixed twin beds. A bunk bed with a futon is a configuration of a twin bunk bed on top and located below is a full-size futon sofa. The futon underneath could be spread out into a bed at night and then back into a sofa by daytime. Great thing here is, you don’t have to move the entire bed when making the bed into a couch once more because it is front-operating. Lastly, loft beds have but one twin bed above and the part below is an open space for other selected furniture. Mattress protectors should never be left aside especially for little ones. This will shield your foam from bedwetting. It also protects those who sleep in it from allergies caused by dust mites and other pests and bugs. These add-ons are easy to wash and placed back on the bed.

Ideal use

Bunk beds are ideal for kids and great for older ones too. This is a convenient solution to space problems. It can accommodate two persons – one on top and on below. Futon bunk beds are perfect for sleepovers and guests who are staying for the night. This has room for one older child on top and two little kids occupying the futon below. Loft beds have the least capacity in these three choices. It can accommodate just one person on top.

Safety

Before purchasing any kind of furniture, check its safety first. Beds on top should always have guardrails on both sides of the mattress to avoid unconsciously rolling off the bed at night. Make sure that the spacing between the guardrail and mattress isn’t wide enough for a kid to slip through and get strangled. Choose one that has a secured ladder which won’t slip when someone climbs on it. Inquire the manufacturers about the safety ratings and weight limits to prevent injury and accidents.

So you see, different bed fixtures can satisfy different needs. But if you really want the best for your children, choose the best features there is.

3 Essential Things to Consider when Buying a Futon

Before buying a futon, it is necessary to consider these things: purpose of buying your futon; needed size of futon; and, choice of futon style.

A futon originated as a Japanese simple mattress. It is intended to be rolled-up and kept during daytime. Nowadays. a futon would refer to a frame, which is either made of metal or wood, that is used as a support for a futon pad or a mattress. There are various sizes of futons available and they are different in terms of uses too. A futon is commonly used in a den, in a kids' room, in a guest room, and in a family room. It can also suffice the need for a bed in dormitories and apartments. In other words, a futon is known for its versatility in terms of function. In order to have the best choice of futons, consider these essential things:

Purpose of buying your futon

The kind of futon you will buy will greatly depend on its planned use. It is necessary that you determine its foremost function. Figure out if you need it for sitting, sleeping or lounging.The good thing about having a futon bed is that it functions as a sofa and as a bed, giving you the option of using for sleeping or for sitting. It is helpful to identify as to where you will use it too. Whether you place it for use in a guest room or in a child's room. Knowing the purpose of the futon will help you in choosing the appropriate kind of frame. It will also help you choose the right quality of mattress to be used along with the futon. If you plan to use a futon for sleeping, then a wood frame is most suitable since it provides for a firm surface. A thick mattress would go well with it too.

Needed size of futon

The first step in identifying the size of the futon you need is to measure your space. It is important to note that a futon bed will occupy a large space when it is opened fully. Take for example a futon chair that becomes the size of a twin bed once you open it up. A futon is available in various sizes. It can come in twin, full, queen, and king sizes.

Choice of futon style

Futons are available in contemporary and traditional styles. Their frames are made of either wood or metal. A frame made of hardwood creates a traditional look, while a frame made of metal projects a contemporary look. Having a combination of wood and metal frame is also an attractive option. Futon covers are highly important, so give utmost consideration in your choice of cover styles. Just as you would in choosing for a sofa fabric.

Where to Find an Affordable Wall Decor

When decorating your walls, you don't have to go overboard when it comes to spending. Several cheap wall decors are available at the following online stores: metal-wall-art.com, philosophygifts.com, wroughtirondecorstore.com, superwholesaler.com, wholesalemart.com, bargainbunch.com, getprice.com.au, a1agiftsonline.com, giftmood.com, and inspireyourwalls.com.

Wall decors are decorative pieces that enhance the look of a place. A variety of decors is made available according to price, which may range from the cheapest to the most expensive. Below are some online stores selling affordable wall decors namely:

Metal Art - metal-wall-art.com

You can find an affordable wall decor below $50 like wall scones, jewel metal sculpture, vineyard metal wine rack, and treble clef musical wall art - all at a discounted rate.

Philosophy Gifts - philosophygifts.com

An inexpensive way to decorate your wall is by using wall decals, a removable piece of decor usually made from vinyl. These are cheaper alternative to wall hangings and decors with prices below $30.

Wrought iron decor store - wroughtirondecorstore.com

If you want to have an antique ambiance, try decorating your home with wrought iron wall decors that are given at an affordable price ranging from $24.99 to $49.99. They look so classic because of its material, but very elegant to look at.

Super wholesaler - superwholesaler.com

Super wholesaler is a great place to shop for wall decors in bulk. You can find wall arts below $5 each like sea grass canvass, garden plaque, and blue hanging angel decors.

Wholesaler mart - wholesalemart.com

To spare you from spending big bucks on wall decor purchases, check out this wholesaler store where most of their decors are below $15. Some styles are whimsical, others are classic while, the rest have a touch of the country side.

Bargain bunch - bargainbunch.com

An easier way to shop for wall decors without minimum orders is at this site. Various choices include canvass art print, wall hooks, angel plaque, elephant wall mask, and more. As an additional discount, those with orders above $39 will be shipped for free.

Get price - getprice.com.au

These are non-toxic decors ideal for baby's rooms because of it fancy designs. Wall plaques with double adhesive tapes, they are convenient to use and can be transferred from one place to another at any point in time.

A1A Gifts Online - a1agiftsonline.com

Get your wall decor such as candle holder, lighthouse welcome sign, and round dragon plaque with a price of less than $10. You can save as much as $50 per item.

Gift mood - giftmood.com

Decorate your home with a good quality of wall decors from Gift Mood. They have all kinds of decors from hangings, to plaques, to mirrors, and to hooks - affordable and awesome.

Inspire your walls - inspireyourwalls.com

Here's another way of decorating your walls using "lettering". It serves as your source of inspirational quotes while, at the same time adds beauty to your home.

For more information about sunburst wall decor visit Metal Wall Art.

Types of Wall Art Ideal for a Bedroom

There are several types of wall arts that compliment well with a bedroom well. The following wall arts that can enhance the look of your bedroom include the following: themed fabric arts, wall lightings, wall furniture, wallpaper, wall collage, mural painting, and sensual photographs.

A bedroom is considered conducive when it is a comfortable and relaxing place to stay. When decorating a bedroom, be sure to choose wall arts that are pleasing to the eyes. Here are some types of wall arts that are appropriate for a bedroom.

Themed fabric arts

There are many available fabric wall arts that match the bed sheets and pillowcases. This type is a good choice because they may induce a person to sleep. The fabrics are made of light materials, which are relaxing.

Wall lightings

Another good way to decorate your bedroom is using wall lightings. These are mounted on the walls instead of the traditional way of putting them in one corner. The amount of light can be regulated, which can be dimmed anytime to induce sleep.

Wall furniture

A room doesn't look like a room in the absence of a mirror, cabinet, and shelves. They are considered not just as interior furnishings, but as wall furniture as well. They don't only beautify the room since they serve several purposes too.

Wallpaper

A safer way to decorate a bedroom is to make use of a wallpaper. Choose a design that would encourage relaxation such ocean and sky. They represent wide horizon, which can be calming to the spirit. Pastel colors are also soothing and comforting.

Wall collage

To have a personalized look on your bedroom, a collage using memorable photos like weddings and birthdays make a unique wall decor. This can be done personally or hire a professional to do it for you.

Mural paint

Murals are artworks, which make use of paints, watercolor and other medium. This can be applied directly on the wall to create a distinct ambiance.

Sensual photographs

This is a good choice for couples since it stimulates affection and develops intimacy between partners. Framed photos will appear elegant and stunning when displayed in the right place. The ambiance will set the mood while, you initiate the move.

For more information about wall art visit Metal Wall Art.

5 Factors to Consider before Buying Bunk Beds

To have the best choice of bunk beds, here are a few factors that you need to consider before buying one: room space, bunk bed type, bed features, bed style, and bed safety.

Choosing a furniture is not an easy task especially when choosing those intended for kids to use. Your choice of a bunk bed, for one, is a crucial decision to make. A kid's bunk bed should not only be functional and in style, but, it should ultimately guarantee your kid's safety at all times. Go over the five factors that absolutely require your careful scrutiny:

Room space

A bunk bed is definitely fitting for a small room, although, it can greatly benefit to larger rooms as well. It is advisable that you measure the room space by measuring both the ceiling height and the floor space. There should be approximately 2 feet gap from the ceiling to the topmost part of the bunk bed. Although, height of bunk beds may differ, but the average height is about 6 feet high. With regards to the floor space, a twin bunk bed would not be needing as much space as a standard bunk bed, yet, certain additional features of a twin bunk bed might need some extra space. An additional feature would be a pull-out drawer for extra storage space in the room.

Bunk bed type

The type of bunk bed would solely depend on your kids' needs. The two major categories are: basic bunk bed and lofted bed. A basic bunk bed can be a twin bed over another twin bed or it can also be a twin bed over a full bed. A lofted bed, on the other hand, can be a loft bed over a futon bed or it can also be a loft bed over an open space than can be utilized as a study area.

Bed features

A special feature for your bunk bed would depend also on your kid's needs as well as with his age. For kids who love to invite friends to sleep over to your house, then futon bunk beds are more appropriate. A bunk bed with pull-out feature is another good option.

Bed style

There are various styles of bunk beds available for you and your kids to choose from. You have an option of buying one that is made of wood, or made of steel perhaps. A combination of wood and steel is also a nice choice. You can choose from either the traditional style or the modern style. A country style bunk bed would be another option for you. In fact, if your kids would like to have a theme room, there are numerous choices of these too.

Bed safety

First thing to note in buying your kids' bunk bed is their safety. Standard safety features would include a footboard, headboard, and a guardrail.

3 Ways of Avoiding Bunk Bed Injuries

Here are three ways of avoiding bunk bed injuries: practice safety behavior, ensure safe construction, and attention to added considerations.

Injuries are common in kids with bunk beds in their rooms. Common and rampant these injuries may seem, yet, they can still be prevented to happen. It is just a matter of doing some ways to limit if not totally avoid incidence of doctor visits due to falls or head bumps brought about by bunk beds. Below are some helpful ways:

Practice safety behavior

Here are some safety behavior practices that should be strictly followed:

• you should not leave your children below 6 years old unaccompanied in rooms with bunk beds. A fall is a common injury that happens because of bunk beds, and is highly to occur in kids below six years old.


• horseplay is a no-no for kids, either on or under the bed.


• only one kid is allowed on top of the bunk bed.


• don't let your kids hang items on bunk beds like ropes, belts, etc. This is to prevent any strangulation to occur.


• make sure to reinforce to your kids of the safety policy you have given them. It is better not to presume that your kids know and have remembered completely what you told them with regards to safety rules.

Ensure safe construction

It is your lookout that you child's bunk bed should have a safe construction. These are the factors you need to consider:

• the top bunk bed should have a guardrail. The opening for entrance and exit should not exceed 15 inches.


• the top bunk's rails should be about 5 inches from the mattress' surface.


• make sure that the size of your mattress is the appropriate one. Don't use a larger or a smaller one to prevent your child from falling.


• ensure that the ladder is strong enough to accommodate your child in going up and down it.


• the ladder should not have hanging items or clutter.

Attention to added considerations

Apart from the ones mentioned above, here are additional things to be considered too:

• don't position a bunk bed under a ceiling fan.


• don't place it directly under a lighting fixture.


• ensure that there is enough space for your kid to sit on the bed without bumping or hitting his head.


• don't use water mattress for your kid's bunk bed.


• a nightlight is necessary especially for you child sleeping on top of the bunk.


• avoid using substitute parts for your bunk beds. Instead, have the replacement from either the dealer or manufacturer.


• don't remove any earning label as provided on the bunk bed by the manufacturer of bunk beds.

Whether your kids are using full bunk beds or other types of bunk beds, safety holds a very vital aspect in choosing, buying and using these type of beds.

4 Essential Things to Consider Before a Adding a Sunroom to Your Home

It is helpful not to be too impulsive when adding a sunroom to your house. It is safe and wise to fully consider and understand some important things about sunrooms before going into this type of home improvement. It is necessary to take into consideration the following: concept of a sunroom; misconceptions about sunrooms; two types of sunrooms; and, cost to add a sunroom.

A sunroom is a general term that refers to a solarium, a patio, a greenhouse, and an atrium. It is an additional room that provides enough sunlight at the same time protection from wind and rain. It is a dream home improvement for many. Yet, before jumping into a project such as this, it is helpful to consider the following things first:

Concept of a sunroom

A sunroom addition would generally do not have a central heating and cooling. It has a lower cost per square footage as compared to other additional rooms in the house. Its primary purpose is to provide ample light for reading and for plants too.

Misconceptions about sunrooms

The following are the three common misconceptions about adding a sunroom:

• Does not need a building permit - it isn't true. You need to secure a building permit when making such addition.


• Cost less compared to a stick-built addition - not always the case. Sometimes, sunrooms could cost more due to a lot of extras and add-ons.


• Does not need a foundation - building a foundation for your sunroom is basically needed, although, the type of requirements for foundations might vary depending on what your localities impose.

Two types of sunrooms

A sunroom is classified into two types:

• Prefabricated sunroom - is also known as greenhouse type. This constitutes mainly aluminum and glass materials. The sunroom is being fabricated in another place and then shipped to your place. You can assemble it yourself or you can ask your supplier to install it for you instead.


• Stick-built - also known as site-built sunroom. This type would require you to a hire a contractor to construct the sunroom as you would have built any regular addition room. The whole job is done on-site such as the laying of foundation, framing of walls and building of roof.

Cost to add a sunroom

A sunroom would vary in its cost. There is sunroom manufacturer that charges $ about 19,000 with about $ 900 for shipping. This is the cost for a large size sunroom, which is about 24 x 15 feet. A medium size, which is 9 x 15 feet, would cost about $ 11,000 and a shipping rate roughly at $ 700.

Unless one is able to give utmost attention to every detail that relates to sunrooms, he won't definitely have a full appreciation of it. In fact, in order to have the best sunroom addition, it is necessary to fully understand the concept of such project.

5 Common Layouts of Kitchen Design

Here are layouts proven and tested to offer the best when it comes to kitchen designs: one-wall kitchen layout; corridor-style kitchen layout; L-shaped kitchen layout; double-L kitchen layout; U-shape kitchen layout.

Remodeling your kitchen is intended primarily on changing the flow of the kitchen space and design. In other words, kitchen remodeling focuses on the basic and essential aspects of a kitchen. It is not so much on additional and new appliances, cabinets and counters. The aim here is to bring out a better kitchen design plan. Here are five layout types that you might want to use for your kitchen that needs some remodeling.

One-wall kitchen layout

This type of layout would serve best a kitchen room that is long and narrow. A one-wall kitchen design does not use a classic kitchen triangle design, yet, it does not hamper traffic flow inside the kitchen. Since this design is not the best one, it can still be improved with kitchen design plans like the corridor or the L-shape.

Corridor-style kitchen layout

This style of layout uses the classic kitchen design. A corridor-style basically has two countertops on both sides making this design a very functional one. It provides more space for cabinets and counters too. Moreover, this kitchen design is very affordable and is highly recommended to be used in kitchens.

L-shaped kitchen layout

An L-shaped layout is as well-known as a corridor design. And, it is capable of avoiding the clutter problems in a corridor plan. This layout provides more space, thus, you can even install a double sink on the countertops. The drawback here is that the corner space on the counter would make it difficult for you to reach when during food preparation. Although, a solution to this would be to use this counter space at the corner as an area for storing and displaying appliances such as mixers, oven toasters and other small appliances.

Double-L kitchen layout

This is a highly developed kitchen layout allowing two work stations that are both L-shaped. One is bigger than the other. The bigger L-shaped is designed for the preparation of the food, while the smaller one is for the major cooking.

U-shape kitchen layout

A U-shaped layout is similar to that of a corridor-style but with its end being closed. The advantage of having this type of layout is that it provides extra space for a range or a sink, and some additional cabinets. This arrangement also provides a smooth flow of work using the classic kitchen triangle.

Even if you hire kitchen remodeling contractors to do your kitchen improvement, it is still necessary and useful to know the different types of layouts as mentioned above. After all this is your kitchen. Knowledge and full involvement are two important things you must have when engaging in any remodeling project.

8 Preventive Measures in Avoiding Falls during Roof Construction

When it comes to any roof construction, fall protection systems are very crucial in order to prevent accidents or physical injuries. These safety systems include standard precautionary measures such as assessing and identifying possible fall hazards, ensuring ladder safety, providing and wearing of personal protective equipments, installing an edge protection system, using safety nets, using of catch platforms when working on the roof’s edges, practicing good housekeeping, and suspending work on bad weather.

After several years of being exposed to various elements such as rain, strong winds, or snow, roofs eventually wear out which generally results to leaking problems. The best solution for these problems would be hiring a roofing contractor to do the job. But as a home owner, it is very vital that you only hire roofing contractors who have with them a fall protection plan. This plan should include the following:

Assessing and identifying possible fall hazards

This is the first step that every contractor should do in preventing falls and other accidents. Every area of work should be assessed thoroughly so that potential hazards can be identified. After identifying, they should be rectified accordingly with measures that could eliminate or avoid them.

Ensuring ladder safety

Ladders can also lead to accidents if not used properly. Ladders to be used should be inspected regularly for any damage or loose parts. It should also be positioned on solid ground, should be well-stabilized, and erected at the correct angle. Ladders should only be used for access or short work durations and never as a working platform.

Providing and wearing of personal protective equipments

Each worker should be dressed with personal protective equipments such as proper footwear, clothing, harness, snap hooks, karabiners, and so on. These equipments are actually very helpful in ensuring worker safety in work areas on the roof like the proper footwear to prevent slipping or the harness to prevent from falling.

Installing an edge protection system

An edge protection system consists of guard railings. They prevent workers from falling in case of slipping. They are securely placed on the edge of the roof and are often times attached to scaffoldings.

Using safety nets

Safety nets are often installed when edge protection systems like railings are not present, but it is best tied to work platforms and scaffoldings. They are usually installed before any construction work is done. It is hung close to the work area and should be suspended that nothing comes in contact underneath it.
It is never advised to do any welding or cutting jobs above the nets because this can cause deterioration of its material.

Using of catch platforms when working on the roof’s edges

Catch platforms or working platforms consists of scaffolding components placed just below and close to the work area. They should be utilized when working on roof edges and on long working durations. Catch platforms should have the capacity to carry huge amounts of loads.

Practicing good housekeeping

Many slipping hazards or accidents are mostly caused by an unorganized and dirty working area. Thus, good housekeeping should be practiced before, during and at the end of each working day. Equipments should be placed in the right storage boxes and litter should be thrown away accordingly.

Suspending work on bad weather

When bad weather conditions such as strong winds, rain, and snow occurs, it is advisable that work should be suspended and resumed when weather is accident-free and conducive for work.

The safety and welfare of every worker is also a concern for every home owner. They could be held liable for damages when accident or any fatalities occur. It is always a wise choice that home owners should hire roofing contractors with fall protection systems. At least, they could be at ease of each worker’s safety every working day.

9 Ways to Design a Screened Porch

You can have a very nice design of a screened porch by keeping to heart the following ways: consider the size and shape of the porch; consider the outer side design of the porch; consider the inner hallways and pathways inside the floor plan; consider having a built-in ceiling; consider the lighting; consider the adequacy of electric outlets; consider the wall height; consider the flooring; and, consider the availability of a ceiling fan.

A screened porch is a good addition to your house. It can add beauty to your home provided that is a well planned design. It is important to identify the things you need to give special attention and utmost consideration when building and designing a screened porch. Here are a number of ways of doing it:

Consider the size and shape of the porch

First and foremost, it is necessary to consider the size of your desired screened porch. To effectively create a floor plan, it is helpful to buy the pieces of furniture with which you would like to use inside your porch. This should be done before you make the essential building of the structure. To be able to identify the right shape of your porch, you need to use a string to create an outline. This will also allow you to have a more precise measurement of your porch.

Consider the outer side design of the porch

The outer design of the porch should possess a resemblance in the characteristic of the home. The exterior details of the roof, the overhang and the roof pitch should fit your existing home design.

Consider the inner hallways and pathways inside the floor plan

Should you want to have a door directing from the porch to your yard, make sure you consider the interior hallway or the pathway. Normally, a door would occupy about 15 square feet of space in your porch.

Consider having a built-in ceiling

It is a must to use a ceiling that is vaulted type inside your screened porch. It gives a spacious effect on the room. A built-in ceiling basically brings about a cooler atmosphere because of the proper ventilation it provides.

Consider the lighting

The room should have soft and indirect lights. Ample source of illumination is necessary when doing any type of activity inside the porch. Artificial lighting is needed when natural light is almost close to impossible to provide especially during night time. To save on electricity costs, it is good to install skylights to allow natural light to come in during the day.

Consider the adequacy of electric outlets

There should be enough electrical outlets in the different areas of the porch. This is useful for your ceiling fan, television, and other appliances needed. It is advisable to refrain from using extension cords as this imposes high risk of danger to everyone.

Consider the wall height

You should bear in mind that the height of your walls should be tall enough to provide you with a sufficient view of the outdoors. The height of your wall should be about 9 feet.

Consider the flooring

Your flooring should be excellent in function and in style. It is also very important that it is protected from any damage due to weather conditions.

Consider the availability of a ceiling fan

A ceiling fan should be available inside your screened porch. It is something that you shouldn't forget to install. This is very useful during hot summer days.

Your screen porch should be fully equipped with all the essential things to make it a comfortable and practical room addition.

3 Practical Tips to Keep Rain Out of Screened Porches

Rainwater entering your porch not only damages the materials from which it was built, it also prohibits you from relaxing in it. Thus, screened porches should be provided with the best protection available, such as installing an extendable overhang; using storm windows; and installing a floor drainage.

Whether it's for weekend get-together, exercise, entertainment, or dining, a screened porch is an ideal place to relax and enjoy. It is where you get to see the wonders of nature, play with the kids, sing karaoke, water flowers in pots, read books, and take afternoon siestas. But this may not be the case when it rains. Here are practical tips to keep rains out of your screened porches:

Installing extendable overhang

This is perhaps the most resourceful way of preventing your porch from getting wet. Though intense rain accompanied by horizontal winds might penetrate this line of defense, it protects your porch from vertical rainfall. While overhang designs on the market are quite expensive and require professional installation, a do-it-yourself overhang is easy to make, and at the same time, cost-effective. Attach tarp to the porch ceiling and tie the ends to a strong pole. Position it in such a way that it extends several feet from the roof for maximum protection. You can roll it up and down, whenever necessary.

Using storm windows

Like houses with screened windows, screened-in porches may also be installed with storm windows. They are expensive but a one-time investment on them can save you from the hassles during a storm. Glass with locking clips is usually attached with the storm windows to protect your porch from dripping wet. Though they do not guarantee a hundred percent leak-free and sturdy quality, they provide the best protection there is for your porch.

Installing a floor drainage

When rainwater persists in entering into your porch, have a floor drainage installed. Although this does not keep the rain out, this somehow protects your porch floor from being damaged too fast. Wooden floors are easy to have a drainage system installed. Begin by creating a hole in it through using a jigsaw, and then use a decorative drain cover to fit through the hole. Install a gutter from underneath the hole to channel the water outside, rather than just under it. For concrete floors, professional help is necessary. Through installing drainage, you can prevent your floor from soaking in rainwater.

Screened porches add up to a beautiful home. So, it is very important to take good care of them. You will not only save your time, but, it also prevents any hassle in dealing with damages caused by penetrating rains. Not to mention the added cost you will incur in having your whole place being repaired due to rain.

10 Ways to Save Costs on Home Remodeling

A home improvement is one big family project. Yet, it need not be too costly. Here are ways on how to save costs when doing your home remodeling: decrease personal loans, credit and mortgage requirements; utilize structural aspects; construct upward or inward; refrain from moving the plumbing system; do your own renovation; use current electrical work; stay at your work site; avoid hiring major remodeling companies; avail of free consultations; and, lessen the need for contractors.

Every now and then, there is always the desire to make your house look even better. Renovations and improvements must take place so to speak. But, it's a fact that money matters are greatly an issue when it comes to any home remodeling. Yet, you can always find ways on how to go push through with your remodeling project without having to spend so much. Here are ways on how to save any further costs:

Decrease personal loans, credit and mortgage requirement

A second mortgage or personal loans are always needed when engaging in home improvement projects. In fact, you can even say that it's unlikely for one to do some renovations without debts. But, it can be made possible. Save up for such project and push through with the remodeling when the budget is ready. Spending in cash basis is always the safest way to do it. Credit cards, personal loans and mortgages can still be eliminated from your list of fund resources.

Utilize structural aspects

If you happen to have beams, walls, and floors that seem old, you don't have to replace them b y building new ones. You can instead just do some restoration by cleaning and repairing.

Construct upward or inward

Renovations should be either directed upward or inward But, avoid building outward. To build outward would be more costly compared to building upward due to the foundation work to be done. Moreover, going for an inward job is more cost-saving. Should you have existing rooms extra rooms, then you could use it for another purpose. That way you don't have to spend much.

Refrain from moving the plumbing system

You need to take note that a plumbing work is already expensive. And, moving that plumbing system to another part of the kitchen, for example, would be more expensive thing to do. Aim to redesign the area without having to relocate your plumbing setup.

Do your own renovation

When doing a renovation, you have two options available. One is to hire a professional or you could do the job yourself. There are some remodeling that needs a special skill compelling you to hire a professional. But then again, if you want to save on costs, you need to learn how to do these remodeling tasks.

Use current electrical work

An electrical work is as expensive as a plumbing work. So, it is best not to abandon and change. Rather, you can make some additions if necessary. Supplementing is the key to saving costs on electrical work.

Stay at your work site

In undergoing a remodeling on your own, it is costly to be paying for a second mortgage and an apartment rent all at the same time. So, while doing the necessary renovations, stay in your work site. This is another cost-saving tip.

Avoid hiring major remodeling companies

Should there be a need to hire one or two persons to assist you on the remodeling, then go for small remodeling contractors. Big companies would likely to charge more because of its huge expenditures for compensation, taxes and advertising. Smaller contractors are more willing to adjust their price too. However, it is imperative that you check on their previous remodeling work first before hiring their services. Just to make sure that you won't encounter any problems with them.

Avail of free consultations

Avail of free consultations from your nearby home improvement stores. You can avail of a free design layout and free floor measurements from them too. Product samples are given out for free such as flooring chips and the like.

Lessen the need for contractors

For complex remodeling work, you definitely need a few contractors to help you out. But, make sure you only hire when that particular project in the house is elaborate and would need an expert to do it.

To save on costs does not necessarily mean eliminating the services of a remodeling contractor. There are certain parts of the house that absolutely require a professional. The important thing is for you to have a good judgment as to when you need to hire one.

8 Steps to Take Before Remodeling Your Home

Remodeling a home needs careful planning. There are things you need to do before you go into a home improvement project. It is necessary to consider these helpful steps: visualize your dream; discover and learn from other people's experience; think of the family's possible future needs; compute your budget; pick your team; demand for a written contract; get a legal permission; anticipate problems.

Before starting your home remodeling, it is recommended to take a certain plan of action. You can just simply do any home improvement project without a thorough preparation. Planning and preparation are two important aspects in any given project. To be able to have a smooth flow of carrying out the project, here are a few steps you should follow before you proceed with the remodeling of your home:

Visualize your dream

Aside from hiring a consultant to help you plan for your remodeling, you also need to picture out your remodeled home. Then, plot out your ideas in details. If you intend to build additional rooms or perhaps expand some rooms, figure out how these changes will affect the entire house. To do this conveniently, you can use any software for home design to aid you in sketching the plan.

Discover and learn from other people's experience

One best way to avoid jeopardizing your remodeling projects is by learning from other homeowners' experiences. Searching through Web sites for a record of home improvement plans and projects can give you a vivid picture of how you should go about with your own project. Join chat rooms too and ask questions. You will surely learn a lot of things from there.

Think of the family's possible future needs

Consider your family's needs in the future. Make sure that the plans you have for the remodeling project will still benefit you and the whole family a few years from now.

Compute your budget

In any given home renovation, money is always an issue. You really need money to fund your project. Before starting the whole home remodeling plan, come up with a specific budget to work on and make sure to work around that one. Although, oftentimes than not, remodeling a home would most likely to result in spending for more than what is expected. Should your current budget is not enough to cover all expenses for the said remodeling, then plan on how to acquire loans to finance it. Just look for companies that can offer lower interest rates.

Pick your team

As much as you would like to do the whole project by yourself, yet, somewhere along the way you will really be needing others to help you out. So, might as well plan ahead and distinguish which part of the remodeling would require some services from remodeling contractors. This way you can choose the right people to work with you. Make sure they are licensed, insured, and competent.

Demand for a written contract

Whether your project entails an easy carpentry or a complicated project, you should ask for a written contract from your architect or contractor. The details of the project such as scope of work, materials to be used, and the duration of the project should be clearly stated to avoid any problems later on.

Get a legal permission

Anywhere in the world, a government permit is what you need to make your remodeling or any home improvement project legal. You need to secure a building permit to ensure that your remodeling meets the standard building codes and safety regulations in your locality.

Anticipate problems

Problems during the renovation are inevitable. You just have to be prepared for anything that is bothersome to occur. There might be shortage in construction supplies or a breakdown of an equipment. Things like this are likely to happen. So, plan ahead for any alternative or backup strategies.

5 Common Layouts of Kitchen Design

Here are layouts proven and tested to offer the best when it comes to kitchen designs: one-wall kitchen layout; corridor-style kitchen layout; L-shaped kitchen layout; double-L kitchen layout; U-shape kitchen layout.

Remodeling your kitchen is intended primarily on changing the flow of the kitchen space and design. In other words, kitchen remodeling focuses on the basic and essential aspects of a kitchen. It is not so much on additional and new appliances, cabinets and counters. The aim here is to bring out a better kitchen design plan. Here are five layout types that you might want to use for your kitchen that needs some remodeling.

One-wall kitchen layout

This type of layout would serve best a kitchen room that is long and narrow. A one-wall kitchen design does not use a classic kitchen triangle design, yet, it does not hamper traffic flow inside the kitchen. Since this design is not the best one, it can still be improved with kitchen design plans like the corridor or the L-shape.

Corridor-style kitchen layout

This style of layout uses the classic kitchen design. A corridor-style basically has two countertops on both sides making this design a very functional one. It provides more space for cabinets and counters too. Moreover, this kitchen design is very affordable and is highly recommended to be used in kitchens.

L-shaped kitchen layout

An L-shaped layout is as well-known as a corridor design. And, it is capable of avoiding the clutter problems in a corridor plan. This layout provides more space, thus, you can even install a double sink on the countertops. The drawback here is that the corner space on the counter would make it difficult for you to reach when during food preparation. Although, a solution to this would be to use this counter space at the corner as an area for storing and displaying appliances such as mixers, oven toasters and other small appliances.

Double-L kitchen layout

This is a highly developed kitchen layout allowing two work stations that are both L-shaped. One is bigger than the other. The bigger L-shaped is designed for the preparation of the food, while the smaller one is for the major cooking.

U-shape kitchen layout

A U-shaped layout is similar to that of a corridor-style but with its end being closed. The advantage of having this type of layout is that it provides extra space for a range or a sink, and some additional cabinets. This arrangement also provides a smooth flow of work using the classic kitchen triangle.

Even if you hire kitchen remodeling contractors to do your kitchen improvement, it is still necessary and useful to know the different types of layouts as mentioned above. After all this is your kitchen. Knowledge and full involvement are two important things you must have when engaging in any remodeling project.

5 Popular Roofings that Will Beautify and Protect Your Home

There are so many types of roofing materials you can see in different places. The most common types include asphalt shingles, slate, tiles, wood shingles, and metal roofing.

When planning for a new house or renovating your home, roofing is one thing you need to consider well since it plays an important role in beautifying your house while protecting it from different weather conditions. You need to be familiar with the different types of roofing as well as its characteristics to make a wise choice. Here are the most common types of roofing:

Asphalt shingles

Asphalt shingles are one of the most common types of roofing for residential houses. They are usually composed of fiberglass or recycled paper mixed with asphalt and covered with colored mineral granules. With the arising problems of being easily damaged by high winds, heavy rains, and very high heat, asphalt shingles are now made thicker, more textured, and more durable. Homeowners prefer this type of roofing since it is cheap to install, durable, stylish, available in many colors, and basic repairs can be done without the need to hire a roofing company. A roofing contractor would also love to take on asphalt shingles roofing projects because they are faster and easier to install than other materials used for roofing.

Slate

A Slate roof is popular because of its traditional classic beauty and exceptional durability. It is water-proof and very hard to wear despite of extreme weather conditions. Some even last for hundreds of years. It is made by splitting big blocks of slate rock, which is a sedimentary rock usually composed of clay and volcanic materials. Because of its expensive nature, it has become popular mostly in upscale houses. Aside from from being an expensive material, installation and maintenance of slate roofing is also costly because it is difficult to put up due to its heaviness. In addition, only a few contractors accept this kind of roofing project. As an alternative, some homeowners who want a slate look in their homes, prefer to use rubber slate or compositions slate, which are only about one-third of the weight of real slate, making it easy and cheaper to install.

Tiles

Tiles have become popular roofing, usually made of clay or ceramic materials. These are durable, insect-proof, fire-proof, and are available in many different sizes and shapes to fit the look of your house. The problem with clay tiles though, is that they are expensive and heavy in nature. Like using a slate for your roof, you will be needing a roof support and the structure of your house must be strong enough to bear the weight of your roof.

Wood shingles

Wood shingles have become a favorite to many homeowners because of its pleasant, natural look. Its installation needs to be done by a roofing contractor because of its complexity. Usually made out of cedar, cypress, or red wood, they need to be regularly maintained to keep it from rotting as well as to get rid of molds and insects that can ruin your roof. When properly maintained, it is said to last from 30-50 years.

Metal

A metal roof is durable, which can last up to 75 years. In the past years, homeowners would not prefer using this type of roofing material for aesthetic reasons. However today, metal roof fabricators have come up with shingles look, and made metal roofs available in many attractive colors to fit your home. This type of roofing almost does not require maintenance as it is suitable for all weather conditions. It is also very lightweight compared to other roofing materials. Finally, it is environment friendly, especially when using aluminum roofing, since aluminum can be recycled over and over.

With the options given, what you need to consider when choosing your roof now would be the style and structure of your house. Follow your taste, too. These days, roofing materials are designed to last longer, so you better choose what look you really want your house to have. As long as it is durable and well-maintained, and as long as you have the budget, then go for it.