Sometimes, even the simple act of displaying a good security camera can save your entire home from being infiltrated and ransacked. There is something about the sight of a camera that drives away potential burglars and home invaders, and it is always a good idea to make sure that your property is well-protected, don’t you think? But now, the question you’re probably asking is, “Which security camera and system should I get?” Well, there are many different kinds out there, each with its own unique features. But there is this...
Bathrooms are unique in the home when it comes to electrical service. By nature, bathrooms are damp environments and water and electricity make poor bedfellows. Considerations for Bathroom Electrical Circuits Like all home electrical work, it’s important to consult with the local building code before beginning to wire a home bathroom. Building codes vary by area but some things are common. For instance, it is generally a requirement that the electrical receptacles be on one circuit and the exhaust fan and the light fixtures be on another. As with other rooms,...
Some studies have shown that the two most important rooms in the modern home are the kitchen and the bathroom. That makes sense; the first is the most public and the second is the most private. As time goes on, any living space is going to need to be remodeled, either to bring it up to the latest fashion or because of normal wear and tear. There are a few things to be aware of when you remodel your bathroom walls. Removing the Wallpaper Your bathroom has either wallpaper or...
Installing a laminate countertop can be completed yourself with a few tools, and you can follow these simple instructions to replace a countertop and install a new sink as well. Remove the Sink Shut off the water supply by turning off the water valve underneath the sink. Take out the bathroom sink. Remove any objects off the countertops. Disconnect the faucet from the water lines by unscrewing the nut underneath the sink that attaches the sink to the waterlines and it will be near the top of the lines. Undo...
Before power ventilation was invented, bathroom ventilation was performed by simply opening a window. As we have progressed in our understanding of energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and moisture control, bathroom ventilation fans have become the main tool used in order to evacuate moisture from the bathroom and prevent mold and mildew from forming. Different Types of Bathroom Exhaust Fans As with all bath fixtures and furnishings, from plumbing and skylights to sunken tubs and marble tile, a homeowner, architect, or interior decorator can spend buckets of money in this...
The choices of window types and styles today are almost endless. Windows can be customized to fit any opening and the efficiency of the windows can vary significantly depending on the options that are chosen. One of the options on windows that affect the efficiency of a window is between-glass blinds. This system is a very smart innovation that provides valuable shade during periods of intense sun exposure while sporting the convenience of no maintenance and no window treatments. The downside of this product is the lack of...
To fix difficult-to-operate blinds, peer inside the head rail, which is the long metal piece at the top of the blinds that holds them, and locate the square metal pieces or friction clips connected to the track. Remove one or all of the friction clips if the blinds are difficult to operate. This should solve the problem. Lightly pull down on the bottom rail or long metal piece at the bottom of the blinds to reactivate spring if blinds will not lift. Release the cord lock if blinds will...
One thing that most homes have in common is a lack of storage units. And oftentimes, the space in front of windows is under-utilized. Why not kill two birds with one stone and install an attractive window seat that doubles as storage space? It's a good idea to install solar window film to increase comfort and to save money on utility bills while cooling and heating the home. Designing the Window Seat It's a given that the dimensions of the window are not going to change, so that's a good starting...
The days of designing a home with few or small window openings in order to conserve heat are behind us, but it is not an inexpensive project to upgrade the old single-pane, wood frame types of windows of older homes and buildings. In order to make your choices easier, this is a guide to the most popular types of windows found in North American homes. Becoming familiar with the terms will also add to your enjoyment of the process. Awning - windows that are hinged at the top...