Monday, August 22, 2011

5 Tips for Remodeling Your Kitchen

How To Remodel Your Kitchen

Kitchen remodeling is putting your creativity in mind to work. Do not make it look like everyone else's kitchen. Make it unique, make it stand out, unleash your true self.

Although kitchen improvement is an arduous task, it's worth the hard work. To lessen the burden, here are the things that need to be done for kitchen remodeling:

Things to do:
Select a theme.
Of course your old kitchen theme will work just fine but since you are planning for kitchen improvement, you will have the chance to make it look better.

Pick a kitchen layout

L-shape
Shaped like a letter L, containing a very flexible layout design. We can place anything in any area using this layout and the space between storage, cooking, and preparation area is close enough for an efficient work space.

U-Shaped
Layout is shaped to form a letter "U". It has adequate counter space, and an efficient working environment.

Island Option
Designed to meet modern homes because there are plenty of counter space and prevents traffic within the working area.

Galley Kitchen
Most preferred layout for smaller kitchen space. Appliances are close to one another so its perfect if only one member of the household cooks.

Tips:
1. Keep It Simple
The kitchen is designed to be a working area so avoid any clutter. Do not decorate furnish it with useless items as this will only hinder the efficiency of the kitchen.

2. Spacious and Clutter-free
Kitchen layouts are for different kitchen spaces. Choose a layout fit for your kitchen space. The Island layout looks functional and is an effective working space. But it will just be a clutter if installed on small kitchen spaces.

4. Use whatever you have
Our goal is to remodel, not to construct a new kitchen. Make use of old materials like wood, metal, plastics. etc and turn it into a new one. One good example is to repaint and fix old kitchen cabinets to use with your kitchen remodeling.

5. Hire contractors
Although it may be a good idea to do it alone, contractors still does it better. They are experienced in doing these jobs and can put your ideas into reality.

Why go for kitchen improvement?
Simple. For increased productivity. How can you work well in your old kitchen when you hear cracks on floors, holes in the ceiling, and a very dark room. Additionally modernization keeps us away from obsolete kitchen methods, ideas, and design to give way to a new and improved kitchen.

The goal of kitchen improvement is not only for aesthetics but for improved functionality. Before you decide if your kitchen needs it, plan about it first. Will it increase productivity in the kitchen and lessen your cooking time? Is it different with the current theme of your home? If yes then it's time for to remodel your kitchen.

For the latest in tile selections for your kitchen remodel, contact At Your Door FLoors.

Putting On The Fix remodeling & flooring
http://www.puttingonthefix.com

Saturday, August 13, 2011

How To Select a Low Cost and Energy Efficient Ceiling Fan

How To Select a Low Cost and Energy Efficient Ceiling Fan

Ceiling fans are as effective as air conditioners if bought properly. In fact, it can change how often you use air conditioners thus minimizes the use of air conditioners. What's more is that it is more energy-efficient and environment friendly than air conditioners. On your next home remodeling, consider ceiling fans in your list. But how can we select the proper ceiling fan for a certain room?
First decide where to mount your ceiling fan. Ceiling fans are usually installed in the center of the room for optimal airflow.
Here are the things to consider before buying a ceiling fan:
Room Size
Follow this rule: The larger the room, the bigger the ceiling fan. If you want exact measures to fit with your remodeling, here are the common fan size requirements for a room:
 Small Room(100 square feet) = 30-40" blade
 Large Room(400 square feet) = 50-54" blade
 Very Large Room(400 square feet and above) = 56" or larger blade

Ceiling Height
For safety reasons, fans must not be lower than 7 feet from the floor. Check the height in your remodeling plan, eight to nine feet is the preferred height. For lower ceilings, install a flush mount and for higher ceilings, use a down rod.
When to use a down rod?
If the ceiling is:
 8' = traditional mount with down rod
 9' above = extended down rod
 sloped = extended down rod
Quality of Materials
Avoid buying cheap fans. You are remodeling a house so prefer those that last for years. They are made up of cheap materials and what's worst its electrical components are a substandard which means it can overheat fast.
Heavier parts will reduce noise and prevent wobbling. But it must not hinder the motor speed. If the motor heats up fast, don't buy that fan.
Sealed bearings can last longer compared to the traditional ones because it has permanent lubrication.
Additional Tips:

 Select ceiling fans that are expensive but not unreasonably expensive.
 Look for fans with the Energy Star label. These fans are more expensive but it can be a benefit in the long run.
 Will the fan be in a humid or dry environment? Pick the proper fan for a specific area.
 Indoor ceiling fans cannot be used outdoor.
 Select fans that will match your interior.
 To aid with your remodeling budget, there are fans that have light fixtures in it. It's functional and elegant at the same time.

Brian Heltzel
Putting On The Fix remodeling and flooring
http://www.puttingonthefix.com
At Your Door Floors flooring store
http://www.atyourdoorfloors.com

Monday, August 8, 2011

Tips for Buying a Bathtub

Top 4 Basic Tips To Know Before Buying A Bathtub

Are you looking at remodeling your bathroom? Choosing a bathtub has several considerations to think about before you can make final decisions for your bathroom. The choices are not just how it looks, it must also be functional and be based on how you are going to use your tub. Another thing to consider is technology (yes! bath tubs can use technologies too). Do you want it to be equipped with state-of-the-art technology to relax or just want to have fun or just a plain tub for everyday use.
Here are some top priorities you should consider when buying a tub:

1. 60-inch bath tub will do just fine, it has a space enough for you to stretch and secured enough for you not to slip. Tubs do not better when they are bigger. To be sure, try sitting in the tub before you make your purchase.

2. What is your purpose? Is it for your family to use, for friends so that they can socialize in your home, or for your own personal relaxation?

3. Types of Bathtubs

 General purpose - These are the tubs we commonly use at home. We have grown up to these kinds of tubs.
 Soaking Tubs - These tubs are deeper than the general purpose tub. It allows you to sink your body into the water. These tubs are similar to what you see on Roman films where the princess or king takes a bath.
 Whirlpool Tubs - It has water jets and the water is circulated throughout the tub. It massages your body and helps you relax. Perfect for easing out your stress.
 Walk-in Tubs - This can be a general purpose tub, soaking tubs, or whirlpool tubs, the only difference is that it has a door that will let you walk into the tub rather than climb on it. A perfect tub for the elderly and the disabled.

4. Material of the tubs

 Cast iron tubs are the most durable tub, it can last for years.
 Enamel on steel is lighter than cast iron. Good for bathroom remodeling jobs.
 Acrylic is made out of plastic. It is much lighter than cast iron and enamel. These are often used in whirlpool tubs because it can easily be molded in various shapes.
 Fiberglass is similar to acrylic only that it is more durable. But the downside is that it is very expensive.
 Wooden bathtub is a special kind of tub not often seen in stores. It can be more expensive than whirlpool tubs but it is more beautiful especially you want a more Zen-like appeal to your bathroom.

Putting On The Fix Remodeling & Flooring
http://www.puttingonthefix.com
At Your Door Floors flooring store
http://www.atyourdoorfloors.com