Frameless Shower Doors are a Great Bathroom Addition

July 28th, 2010

Choosing a quality shower door is a great addition and investment into any home. So what is a frameless shower door, and is it better than framed shower doors? And what options are available for consumers? These are important answers to have before going shopping for a new shower door.

What is a Frameless Shower Door? A frameless shower door is a glass shower enclosure that has little or no aluminum around the sides of glass panels. For example, side panels may be framed with aluminum, but main glass door has no framing. In some cases, there is very little noticeable framing. Thickness of glass varies among products, however, thicker is better as it provides more advantages.

Is framed better than Frameless? Framed shower doors are framed with aluminum on all sides. Aluminum is not always undesirable, and in some cases, it is necessary. However, frameless shower door require less maintenance because of less metal hardware than framed shower doors. Frameless doors are also more streamline and artistic in appearance than most traditional framed glass doors, though metals can sometimes be a perfect accent for a shower door. It really depends on décor, color scheme, and style.

Frameless Shower Doors can be equipped with a number of various options. Because of the nature of frameless doors, the hardware chosen will really stand out. There are many beautiful types of handles, hinges, and towel racks that come in a variety of decorative finish options. Whatever your color scheme, shower door manufacturers have a number of colors available and will also custom match you décor when necessary.

A reliable shower door retailer and installer is the perfect place to go when you begin planning your shower door. The shower door experts have any kind of shower door, and are certified shower door installers serving the Mid-Atlantic area. The shower door experts will get you set with everything you need to know to get your frameless shower door installed.

Let There Be Light in Your Bedroom!

July 27th, 2010

Winter Solstice is the shortest day of the year, and then the light slowly starts returning to the northern hemisphere. But that still means we have many months of the year when our bedrooms get very little or no light in the mornings, when we get up, and are dark long before we go to sleep. If you’re someone who gets blue without enough light in your life, try brightening up your bedroom by making it feel like summer!

Think summer. Light colors, light fabrics. Take down the dark, heavy drapes and let the windows bring in as much light as possible during the day. When evening approaches, pull down the blinds and close the sheer curtains, which will look delightful in the glow of your warm bedroom lighting. Use soft white or pink-tinted bulbs in your lamps, or the full spectrum bulbs that replicate natural sunlight. They can make a huge difference in how you feel!

One way to optimize the light that comes in during the day is to position a large mirror on a wall across from or corner to a window. The mirrors will reflect sunlight and bounce it around the room. Hanging crystals in your windows is another way to bounce light around the room at certain times of day — except this will be like having rainbows all around you!

Make your bedroom feel lighter simply by eliminating or moving around your furniture to have more open space available. Use colors for your bedding that complement the summer scheme, such as celadon, aquamarine, a hint of orange and yellow, or nautical navy blue and white stripes. A floral-pattern or green rug on the floor will evoke summertime thoughts, as will adding some flowering plants, greenery, or vases of flowers. A large tropical plant with palm leaves gives an instant feeling of warmth!

If you have a fireplace in the bedroom, try decorating the mantle with shells or framed photos taken in the summer. A painting or photo above the mantle of the beach, a boat on water, or lush foliage can add to the effect.

Try a few of these suggestions to brighten your bedroom and give you a taste of summertime — even during the dark days of winter!

Furniture Finds: Getting The Look For Less

July 26th, 2010

Whether it’s an apartment, condo or house, buying your first home can be exciting as well as expensive. After depleting your savings account purchasing your home, you might start to feel the pinch when it comes to furnishing it.

Here are some tips to get the look of luxury without the price tag:

• Be Resourceful. How do you find quality furniture without paying a high price? If you’re willing to put in some time, buying unfinished or used furniture to refinish can save you a lot of money and leave you with the same look for less.

• Sniff Out Bargains. Hunt for fix-me-up furniture in attics, garage sales and flea markets. Some of the best pieces could be hiding in a friend’s or relative’s attic. Keep in mind that finding the perfect piece may not be love at first sight. Look beyond the surface to see if there is potential for refurbishing.

• Transform Timeless Furniture. Before you take home any piece of furniture, check for structural flaws such as cracks, loose joints, lifted veneer, warped surfaces or uneven legs. If the integrity of the piece is still good, refinishing it can change the appearance from old and worn to beautiful and timeless.

• Give Furniture a Facelift. Before you can banish the old finish, you need to find out what you’re removing. Give it the cotton ball test. Dampen a cotton ball with acetone nail polish remover, then choose an inconspicuous test spot and dab it with the cotton. If it sticks or the finish softens, you have a varnish, lacquer or shellac finish. Formby’s recommends using their Furniture Refinisher, which will gently dissolve this type of finish. If nothing happens when you dab the cotton ball, then the finish is most likely paint or polyurethane. Try Formby’s Paint & Poly Remover to lift and remove the old finish. After a light buffing with Paint & Poly Remover Wash, you’re ready to add a beautiful new finish.

• Rub On the Finishing Touch. Applying a finish is essential for protecting stripped, stained or bare wood from moisture and wear. Formby’s Tung Oil Finish imparts a warm, hand-rubbed luster to wood, enhancing its natural charm. By hand-rubbing Tung Oil into wood, you eliminate the potential for streaks, ensuring a beautiful, smooth finish. Tung Oil penetrates wood, protecting from the inside out.

French Country Kitchen Design

July 25th, 2010

A kitchen can be more than just about its role in function, organization and efficiency. Kitchens need a personality and a look and feel that can liven up the senses in addition to being a functional place for the preparation of food. The French Country Kitchen design is one of many classic kitchen design themes that you could consider. It can provide your kitchen with a traditional look that has its roots in the hillsides of rural France. It is a style that can fit into both rural farmhouses and in the grandest chateau.

French country kitchen design conjures up images of the Provence and the French countryside with its pastoral settings, lavender fields and rustic French farmhouses. The French country kitchen represents country living that is uniquely French. In designing your French country kitchen design you discover that the French country look is always very rustic, old and warm.

There are many elements that go into the French country kitchen including the use of large pieces of furniture made mainly of light colored woods and can be decorated with ornate carving.

Color & French Country Kitchen Design
Color is an important place to start the design process. You can draw inspiration from some of the principle French impressionists like Monet and Renoir, Van Gogh. Colors that are used in the French country kitchen style can include sunny yellow or soft gold, bright red and rust, grass green, cobalt blue and soft ocean tones.
You can decorate in the style of the French country kitchen design by using vivid colors - poppy red, sunflower yellow, bright blue, meadow green, and sunset purple. Your walls and cabinets and large furniture can be painted in off white, ivory, light beige, and taupe. Cabinets can be painted a glossy white to brighten light-filled spaces in the kitchen or they can be left as natural wood. These colors can provide a light, airy feel so you do not want to use strong colors here. In fabrics such as curtains and seat cushions you might also add paisley, stripes and floral prints to your French Country Kitchen theme.
Natural Materials
Natural materials are an important element in walls, cabinetry and furniture that is used in the design of French country kitchens. The materials used in creating a rustic French country kitchen look include natural stone floors, granite counter tops and tumbled marble back splashes. These natural materials can be used on walls and beamed ceilings, and can be rough stained or painted plaster, or wood painted in natural colors. Floors can be made of stone or brick and covered with wool or cotton rugs, a fireplace made of stone with a heavy beam that can serve as a mantel, and wooden shutters as window coverings. Furniture and cabinets can have a rustic or even a distressed look. Countertops can be done in ceramic tile with tile back splashes.
Accent Pieces
In French country kitchen design you will find that tile, rustic urns, hand-painted European ceramics and pottery accents are used extensively. Ceramic tiles and terra cotta pottery pieces are used wherever possible. Add copper pots and a French country kitchen can can encompass many old world decorating colors.

A kitchen can be more than just about its role in function, organization and efficiency. Kitchens need a personality and a look and feel that can liven up the senses in addition to being a functional place for the preparation of food. The French Country Kitchen design is one of many classic kitchen design themes that you could consider. It can provide your kitchen with a traditional look that has its roots in the hillsides of rural France. It is a style that can fit into both rural farmhouses and grand chateaus.

The materials used in creating a rustic French country kitchen look include natural stone floors, granite counter tops and tumbled marble back splashes.

A Brief History of Wedgwood China

July 24th, 2010

The story of the line begins in 1730 with the birth of Josiah Wedgwood to a family who manufactured pottery. At six years old, Josiah was an apprentice and by 14 he had suffered a bout of smallpox that weakened his right knee. By 1760, Josiah had his own factory and had been experimenting with different formulas of porcelain, clays and glazes and technological advances in the art of transferring designs to the finished product. In 1765 he manufactured a complete set for Queen Charlotte, advertised himself as the “potter to the Queen” and his business took off.

Josiah’s crowning achievement was his creation of Jasperware. Jasper is translucent clay that marries the basalt and Josiah’s original formulas to produce a dense, homogeneously colored stoneware. After more than 10,000 failed experiments with various clays and glazes, Jasperware was launched in 1775 to overwhelming success, especially to his customers in the new democracy of the United States of America. Josiah stated shortly thereafter, “there was no item too rich or too costly for Americans.”

Wedgwood died in 1795 and the business was left to his sons, who, having been brought up wealthy, had absolutely no interest in running it. The job fell to a nephew, Tom Byerly who struggled greatly with the burden of running a business he had little love for. The next 25 years proved difficult for the company and Josiah II took over to turn things around by restoring the formulas and business standards set by his father. Needless to say, constant economic turmoil, wars and growing competition made the 1800’s very difficult and it wasn’t until the 20th Century, under the leadership of Josiah V that things began to improve.

With new, streamlined production facilities, aggressive worldwide marketing especially in America, and exclusive designs, Wedgwood China products began gaining prominence in the industry. In 1966, Wedgwood’s shares were introduced into the London Stock exchange and since that time, the company has been involved in aggressive expansion. The assets of Susie Cooper, Royal Tuscan, William Adams, Franciscan, Mason’s Ironstone, Waterford, and Rosenthal have been merged with Wedgwood to form the Wedgwood group. Josiah Wedgwood I would be proud.

Making a Bed with Luxury Bedding

July 21st, 2010


Decorating or redecorating a bedroom is a time consuming and frustrating experience. Knowing what we want and finding the perfect bedding ensemble isn’t always a perfect fit. Today, consumers have more bedding choices other than the traditional quilts and bedspreads of yesteryear. Textile companies have answered the needs and desires of consumers by creating comforters in various thicknesses and also introduced Matelasse Coverlets and Duvet Covers in diverse styles, assorted fabrics, and color ranges. We see beautiful luxury, designer bedding collections in magazines and day dream a moment before discarding them as “too expensive.” But when given the facts it’s easy to see that luxury bedding and linens are actually a better return on our investment due in part by manufacturers crafting bedding geared towards home owners who simply want the best available. Bedding that highlights the room, feels fantastic and will hold up to everyday use throughout the seasons, surpass our expectations on comfort and provide years of enjoyment. While it is true that quality bedding can be purchased off store shelves, the savings are minimal yet comfort, quality, selection and value may be compromised.

Bedrooms are used today for more than just sleeping. It’s a quiet retreat where we can curl up with a good book, look through magazines, work, watch television, or simply have fun, playing and spending time with family. Bedroom décor and all that’s within can and does affect our mood. Quality fabrics, rich colors, textures and softness provide us with a comfortable place where we can peacefully sleep and wake up refreshed.

In order to achieve the perfect bedroom important elements need to be considered; such as creating a bedroom that feels as good as it looks, knowing what style we want to accomplish, taking into account what activities will take place, and of course one’s budget.
Taking time to think about colors that make you feel good and complements other furniture in the bedroom should be a prerequisite to purchasing designer bedding. Keeping an open mind on the use of color often times has a pleasant ending. While you may dislike green using it in subtle shades or hues can enhance the other furnishings in your room and pull the look together. Flores, stripes and checks with greens, tans and burgundy will give a country feel, while various shades of blue, white and other soft colors merged with large print floras and stripes will give your bedroom a seaside touch. Bold colors and geometric shapes are a good choice for a modern flair while clean lines create a contemporary theme.
For couples, decorating a bedroom together can be a major issue, she wants something with flowers and he wants a solid bedspread, after all it’s just a bed, a place to sleep. In order for this to work, compromises need to be made to help ensure both individual style choices interconnect seamlessly. Start by deciding on a color palette that is suitable for both. Once this issue has been resolved consider using a duvet with a simple pattern, add a Matelasse Coverlet, often a solid colored tone-on-tone cover with texture. To satisfy her desires pull the look together by using decorative pillows in various sizes, shapes, fabric prints and textures, after all…it’s the attention to detail and all the decorative touches that matter most.

A Simple Explanation of Thread Count

One of the biggest mistakes people make when purchasing luxury bedding and linens is buying solely on thread count. However, what you may not understand about thread count may lead to disappointment. So what exactly is thread count? Thread count is simply how many threads (warp) lengthwise and (weft) widthwise are woven into one square inch. While many retailers advertise high thread count linens at wonderful prices your expectations may not be met when the softness and quality are not found. A thread count of 200 can be a better purchase over a 600 count when quality grade fabrics, a better finishing process and a low weave count is used (one thread woven over one thread is better than two threads woven over two threads). Not only will the linens have a softer feel they will also last longer making you a happy consumer.

Fireplace Mantels and the Fast Track to Buying them

July 20th, 2010


You should also be aware that fireplace specialists and other people who may often work with or have some involvement with fireplaces can easily be discovered via the regional telephone books, there will be no shortage of individuals who are in some way linked with the subject of fireplaces and they can save you a sizable amount of your valuable time by helping you with your fireplace related queries.

When you enter into any fireplace purchase you should make sure that the heating source you might be buying a gas fireplace surround from gives you the feeling that refunds and item mantel cap returns aren’t a difficulty, switching or part exchanging a gel fuel fireplace for a fireplace cover ought never turn out to be a real issue.

A variety of sites will publish selected pages for fireplaces, if a consumer should require a electric corner fireplace or a brick fireplace simply locate the most appropriate fireplace section.

If you use the correct methods fireplace tips can be accessed really quickly, if you do not rush when implementing your fireplace research and you will never go far wrong, if you require expert assistance on items such as ventless fireplaces then see if you can locate a number of specialized fireplace articles.

You will see that heating listings are a relatively useful source of knowledge on numerous items such as wood burning fireplace manuals and napoleon gas fireplace, these type of directories can be located all over the net.

Consider also when you search this region of home improvement it is possible you may very well be overrun with a considerable number of truly varied search engine results, such gems as outdoor propane fireplaces and portable electric fireplaces might though be very relevant to your requirements.

Due to the technology of the internet, access to a whole lot of fireplace info can give you guidance on some great items, should you then need a specialized fireplace such as a cast orio fireplace basket, you may possibly be better off researching in a heat installation or fireplace directory, such sites will contain categories therefore locating a copper electric fireplace, custom fireplace mantel or possibly a freplace combination will not be a hassle.

A great many sites will contain particular sectors focused on fireplaces, if you desire a freestanding gas fireplace or a avalon fireplace insert you just locate the most appropriate fireplace section.

For good quality fireplace knowledge an online store that is supervised by someone like a fireplace expert should be perfect, The home improvement newsgroups and blogs are certainly fantastic resources for finding decent quality fireplace tips and advice, these kind of places might very well provide the answers to some fairly precise questions concerning merchandise like electric fireplace inserts or faux marble fireplaces.

Closet Organizer

July 18th, 2010


Closet organizers are a great way to organize some of your closets. You can build units yourself or purchase pre-made organizers and just install them into your closet. Adding storage can be expensive so if you don’t have the money you may just need some tips on how to organize your closets. If you want to learn how to create more space for your closet, you may want to do these next few suggestions.

First step to organizing anything is de-cluttering. You will want to go through your closet and get rid of everything that you don’t use, don’t want, or don’t wear. This is a simple way to feel up some space in your closet rather it be in your bedroom or in your living room. If you don’t think you will ever need something ever again, throw it away.

You will feel better knowing that you have the space now, rather than being overwhelmed with junk. You don’t have to throw everything away, try either having a yard sale or donate the items to charity places like Goodwill. When you are organizing try to put everything in three piles; keep, dispose, or place somewhere else.

Next, look at all that you want to put back. Gather everything that is related into categories like belts, shirts, skirts, so on and then decide how you want to put them back into the closet. You may decide to get a pre-made organizer located at many hardware stores to put in your closet. This is one of the easiest ways to organize.

If you have a handyman as a boyfriend or husband, you may even want to ask him to built you may shelves or organize your closet space. You may also want to place things that aren’t in season in a storage bag or roll away storage containers under your bed so you can free up some space. You may also find that you want to have your rod pushed up so that your long dresses and such don’t touch the floor, by raising the rod, you will have more floor space.

If you are organizing your home or fixing your home up for selling, many people look for the closet space in a home. You will also want to go through the same steps to other closets. When people organize their closets, they end up finding valuables that are worth much more how they are treated. Organizing your closest are not just great for function, but can also be a moneymaking situation. Do you know what’s in your closest. Plan to get a closet organizer or just organize your closets to find out. You never how what you’ll find your closets.

For more info visit: http://www.internetorganizer.org/

Kitchen cookware and accessories

July 16th, 2010


Stainless steel is made from iron and other metals, which is strong and resists against wear and tear. It is inexpensive, long lasting and is most popular in North America. The metals used in stainless steel or iron, may produce health effects such as iron, nickel and chromium.

Ceramic pottery, enamel or glass cookware is easily cleaned and can be heated to fairly high temperatures. Ceramic is glazed; similar glazes are applied to metals to make enamelware. These glazes, a form of glass, resist wear and corrosion.

For cooking and storing food, plastic is lightweight and nearly unbreakable. Many containers have been made for use in microwave ovens, where metal cookware is not suitable.

Stainless steel cookware should be washed in hot, soapy water or a warm ammonia and water solution, thoroughly rinsed and immediately dried to avoid water spots. Use mild, stainless steel cleaners or light scouring with a plastic or stainless steel scouring pad to remove most stains; don’t use steel wool, chlorine bleach or alcohol

Cast iron cookware is usually pre-seasoned coated with unsalted fat and heated to prevent rusting, unless porcelain coated. It should be washed in warm, sudsy water and frequently treated by coating the cast iron interior surface with unsalted shortening, left until its next use, and then wiped out. To re-season, scour the pan completely, rinse and dry; then coat the inside with unsalted fat and leave in moderate oven for two hours. Remove and wipe off excess grease

To remove copper cookware discoloration, use commercial cleaner or a mixture of flour, salt, lemon juice and ammonia applied before regular washing. Wash chrome cookware with warm water and soap or detergent. Do not use abrasive cleaners.

Here are some useful tips to know before choosing curtains

July 16th, 2010


Consider the style, size, and shape of the window, and what you want the curtains for. Think about the room, its proportions and what it’s used for, the upholstery, and accessories. Curtains can be hung from rods in a number of ways. Although most are functional rather than stylish, some decorative types are available. The right choice will not only enhance the window but also turn an ordinary room into a really special place.

Here are ten household helpful hints for choosing curtains:

1. Match curtain fabric with upholstery to unify space that seems untidy.

2. Use carpet to mark off space. A rug is ideal for establishing a social zone within a room.

3. Fabrics with classic patterns give a period feeling to the ambience of a room.

4. Remember that the bed linen, tablecloths, and towels also contribute to decoration.

5. Sheer curtain and gauze enable us to filter light.

6. Venetian blinds allow control over the amount of light entering a room.

7. Do not limit curtains and blinds to just windows. They can be used in an excessively long passage or hallway. Blinds make good screens.

8. In rooms with a lot of pictures, different colored walls, or furniture, it is suitable to use neutral tones for the curtains and upholstery.

9. Take advance of fabrics by using them to renovate your furniture.

10. Use rugs and tapestries as hanging on a wall. Their color and texture are unbeatable and they improve acoustics.