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EZ Feature Top #3

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Is Travertine Tile Right for You?

Written by on February 22, 2010 · Leave a Comment

Travertine tile is a popular choice in many household projects including bathrooms, flooring, and kitchen tiling projects. Travertine comes in a variety of finishes that enable the customer to pick the best finish for them.

• Tumbled travertine: This type of travertine has a variety of sizes and colors which makes it versatile for a variety of projects.
• Chiseled and brushed travertine: this tile has a very classic look that provides a perfect solution for travertine tile flooring. Its rough edges and brownish tinge provide a versatile look.
• Honed and filled travertine: this type of travertine is ideal for bathroom as well as kitchen. This type of tile has a smooth satin finish where most of the holes are filled during the processing of the stone and therefore requires little maintenance. Read more »

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The Benefits of Walnut Laminate Flooring

Written by on October 1, 2010 · Leave a Comment

Walnut laminate flooring can be a good alternative to hardwood flooring for a number of reasons. First of all, it is more environment-friendly. According to the United States Forest Service, American hardwoods are derived from natural forestlands that serve as the habitat for a highly diverse population of flora and fauna. While it is true that there is a sustainable program for managed forests and hardwood material, the consumption of the inventory should continue to be moderate. In this respect, other options like laminate flooring should be explored. Compared to hardwood, wooden laminates have a lower environmental impact because they are not taken from the forest in the same manner as wood.

Walnut laminates also prove to be more durable than hardwood. They are water resistant and easy to clean. Walnut laminate floors are not as porous as hardwood floors that tend to absorb liquids and corrode over time. Because of the nature of their material, laminates do not change shape after continuous exposure to water. Read more »

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Rediscovering Victorian Radiators

Written by on September 23, 2010 · Leave a Comment

Victorian cast iron radiators are recently starting to make their way back into our homes and our hearts. Even though there are modern alternatives to this classic heating system, many people still consider Victorian radiators to be very efficient at providing heat. Not to mention the fact that Victorian cast iron radiators are just simply eye candy.

How They Work

A Victorian radiator provides heat in much the same way as a regular cast iron radiator does. Extremely hot water and low pressure steam are forcibly channeled through the pipes and into the radiator unit. Since the radiator is made of metal (a very effective heat conductor), through the process of convection, air around it gets warmer. Read more »

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Floor Buffer Buying Guide – Which Home Floor Buffer Is Right For You?

Written by on September 22, 2010 · Leave a Comment

Though floor buffers are more commonly used for commercial or large-scale purposes, many people have discovered what it can do for their homes. These days, floor buffer machines come in many models and sizes, making it more practical to have one at home than before.

A typical floor buffer machine looks like a regular household vacuum cleaner. The difference lies in the body – floor buffers are larger and square, compared to vacuum cleaners. Read more »

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Essential Boiler Installation Tips And Safety Guidelines

Written by on September 22, 2010 · Leave a Comment

Properly boiler installation is essential to preventing serious breakdowns and hazardous problems. If you don’t follow certain guidelines in gas boiler installation, these problems could possibly leave your home or your business without heat or hot water. That’s not all you need to worry about. Your combi boiler breaking down could cost you even more – the safety of your family or employers.

How can you protect yourself from these problems? Just make sure you take the steps required for a successful and proper combi boiler installation. Doing so can save you thousands of dollars in repairs or even in replacements. Combi boilers may not be super high-tech equipment, but they can cause you a great deal of expense and trouble if you don’t take them seriously. Read more »

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Qualities You Need To Look Out For When Shopping For An Above Ground Electric Pool Heater

Written by on September 22, 2010 · Leave a Comment

If you want to extend your swimming well beyond the summer season, then it’s time to invest in an electric pool heater. With one, you, along with your family and friends, can experience the fun of summer and reap the benefits of swimming earlier or even later.

Though electric pool heaters are more expensive than other varieties, they are designed to work even in very cold weather. Solar heaters only work when the sun is up. Gas or oil-powered heaters are not built for sustained use and are not readily available for above ground pools. As you can see, electric pool heaters have an edge. Read more »

Categories: Heating - Tags: , , ,

Recognizing and Troubleshooting Common Gas Combi Boiler Problems

Written by on September 21, 2010 · Leave a Comment

Gas combination boilers, also known as gas combi boilers, are fast becoming one of the most popular forms of central heating boilers. They supply households with hot water on demand, without the need for a water tank. By providing the exact amount of hot water that you need, a gas combi boiler can help you save money on energy. Another thing that makes them popular is that they’re very easy to install. As a matter of fact, among all other heating systems, gas combi boilers are the ones that require the least amount of plumbing.

However, they’re not devoid of any problems. After all, it’s still subject to the same wear-and-tear that other heating systems are exposed to. Let’s take a look at some of the common problems people encounter with combi gas boilers. These should help you recognize signs that your combi boiler is having problems too. Some of these problems can be easily fixed by anyone, including you. Others may require certain adjustments that only a qualified engineer can perform. Read more »

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Street-Smart Tips and Advice On Finding A Siding Contractor

Written by on September 21, 2010 · Leave a Comment

Before you even start looking for a siding contractor, be sure you are already certain about what type of siding you want installed. Not all siding contractors work with all types of siding. There are those who specialize on only one type.

Now once you’ve finalized the type and color of siding you want installed, start hunting for a good contractor. Here are some street-smart tips and advice on how you can pull that off:

  • Check around your neighborhood for houses that have sidings that look perfectly installed. Use your neighborly charm and inquire. Chances are they’ve been installed by really good roofing and siding contractors. Before you know it, you have their phone number.
  • When shopping around for the siding materials you are going to use, try to inquire about installation quotes too, especially from the store where you buy your siding. Some stores offer discounts with the installation. Be wary, though, because some stores actually charge considerably more than what their installers do.
  • Get as many quotes as you can. About 3 to 4. This way, you can compare them and find out which one can give you more value out of your money.
  • Get recommendations from family, friends and even your neighbors. Read more »

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Why You Should Seriously Consider Seamless Gutters For Your Home

Written by on September 21, 2010 · Leave a Comment

Seamless gutters are fast becoming popular among homeowners and home builders. A seamless rain gutter system is usually distinguished by its top section which is rounded on one side. This curved edge serves two important purposes. First, it allows the water to flow right into the gutter itself. Second, it prevents leaves, objects and other debris from getting into the gutter and clogging it. The slope actually lets these objects slide away from the gutter instead of inside it.

Seamless gutters are constructed out of aluminum, galvanized steel or copper. Typically, measuring, fitting and cutting them through the use of a seamless gutter machine are part of seamless gutter installation. This is usually, if not always, done on location.

Because seamless gutters are made of metal, they’re well-known for their resilience and strength. Let’s take a look at some of the other benefits of seamless gutters: Read more »

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5 Essential Factors You To Consider When Choosing Vinyl Siding Colors

Written by on September 20, 2010 · Leave a Comment

The most exciting part of installing vinyl siding is deciding on the color. I’m pretty sure that many people would agree. It may also be the most time-consuming phase too. When faced with the task of choosing vinyl siding colors, many people will find themselves lost in a pile of color chips at some point. Other people end up changing their minds many times before deciding on a final color.

Perhaps if you focused your attention on five specific factors, the whole color decision process won’t be as difficult as other people come to believe it is. Let’s have a look at these factors:

The Style of Your Home

Your home’s style and design is absolutely important when considering a color for it. It will determine the look and feel of your home for years to come. It can even become the “brand” of your home. Try looking for color trends among homes whose styles are similar to yours. Pictures will help you visualize the look that you want for your home. Read more »

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DIY Vinyl Siding Installation – Essential Tips For Rookies

Written by on September 20, 2010 · Leave a Comment

Did you know that you can cut the cost of vinyl siding installation by half if you did the work yourself? Installation of vinyl siding is challenging but it’s not difficult. However, there are things you will need to learn and understand in order to get professional results, even if it’s your first time doing vinyl siding installation.

Get the Right Tools For the Job

The tools required for vinyl siding installation are pretty basic ones. If you’re a DIY-er, then you probably have all of these tools and materials down. It could really cut down on your total vinyl siding installation cost. Here’s a rundown of all of the stuff that you need:

  • Caulking gun
  • Chalk line
  • Circular saw
  • Drill
  • Framing square
  • Hammer
  • Ladders
  • Level
  • Tape measure
  • Tin snips
  • Utility knife

In addition, you will need specialty tools including a nail-slot punch and a snap-lock punch. Read more »

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Understanding the Various Types Of Vinyl Shake Siding

Written by on September 19, 2010 · Leave a Comment

One of the most popular materials for exterior home siding is vinyl shake siding. There are three main reasons why this type of shake siding is more preferred by homeowners and home builders alike. It’s more affordable. It requires less maintenance. It’s easier to install.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Since vinyl siding is manufactures, it can come in an almost unlimited number of colors. New vinyl choices have been enhanced to be able to resist wear and tear better than traditional sidings.

Practically part-plastic, shake vinyl siding is very sensitive to direct heat (i.e. from barbecues, grills or other sources). This is particularly why fire safety experts criticize it. This increased sensitivity to heat and fire makes it easier for a house fire to spread to adjacent houses, quite unlike other siding materials such as brick. Read more »

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Sneak Peek At The Various Types Of Siding For Homes

Written by on September 19, 2010 · Leave a Comment

One of the few components that can make or break the appearance and appeal of a home is its siding. Over the years, materials used for house siding grow more diverse. Choosing among the different types of siding hasn’t become any more difficult though. Whether you’re replacing your old siding or just picking one for your new home, there’s at least one that can satisfy one’s needs and taste.

Generally, there are four types of house siding, based on the nature of the material used to make them. Back in the old days, there were only four (which will be enumerated first in the list below). Due to advances in engineering and chemistry, new materials emerged, adding more variety to the collection.

Wood Siding

This is the oldest type of siding available. In comparison with other siding materials, it’s considerably less expensive. The actual cost, however, depends on the type of wood used. Homeowners and home builders who prefer wood siding do so because of its time-tested aesthetic quality and flexibility. Read more »

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Vinyl Siding Calculator – How To Get Good Estimates

Written by on September 18, 2010 · Leave a Comment

Are you thinking about installing new vinyl siding for your home? If you are, then you’re most probably wondering how you can accurately estimate how much you will need to spend to make it happen. There are several ways with which you can pull this off. You can visit a local home improvement store and inquire. Or you could make use of a vinyl siding calculator.

Vinyl siding calculators are often available online. This makes acquiring an estimate more convenient for people like you.

Some Tips and Advice For You

Get at least 3 to 4 estimates for your siding. You could use a vinyl siding cost calculator for each or you could visit a local hardware or home improvement store. The idea is for you to be able to compare rates and prices. Oftentimes, you’ll find yourself in a position where you could make negotiations based on the other estimates you’ve acquired. Oftentimes, it can take more than just 4 bids to find the perfect contractor for you. But it would be well worth your effort. Read more »

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Gutter Installation – How To Do It Like A Pro

Written by on September 18, 2010 · Leave a Comment

Many people choose to hire professionals to perform the rather meticulous task of gutter installation. However, that doesn’t mean it can’t be done by homeowners like you. You can start your own DIY gutter installation project even if you have absolutely zero experience in home improvement. You’re going to need a little help though.

For some types of gutters installation may require the expertise of a professional. Generally, the steps are pretty much the same. Learning them isn’t difficult either. Here are some pro tips on how to install gutters:

  • Take a picture or draw a bird’s eye view of your house. Mark the sides on which you’d like to install gutters. On each line of gutter you’ve drawn, indicate the length. Diagrams like these will help you more properly estimate the amount of material you need, especially how much aluminum gutter you’ll need to buy.

    • Read more »

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The Advantages Of Installing An Industrial Carpet

Written by on September 17, 2010 · Leave a Comment

While residential carpets were built to provide comfort and beauty, industrial carpets were built for long-term use. Though most people not to install an industrial carpet for their homes, some don’t find the idea bad at all. Primarily because these types of carpets pose great advantages. Here are some of them:

  • Industrial carpets do a better job at keeping a place quiet. This is why most offices use them. They have the ability to muffle the sound of footsteps. This is particularly useful if you like to do activities at home that require peace and quiet (i.e. work, yoga or writing).

    • Read more »

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