Garage Door Materials To Consider Right Now

Most homeowners do not think much about their garages. They simply make mistakes in the sense that they choose the very first garage door that they find and that they like. That is not a good idea. Nowadays, you have access to many interesting options. It is normal to not know what to choose. Do you want to see what the best material is for your roller garage door or do you just want to see if the garage door you have is of a high quality? If so, read on to learn about the most common garage door materials at the moment.

Steel Panels

Many of the garage doors are made out of panels or sections of steels. The steel can be of different colors and can have various thicknesses and sizes. The common gauges we see in the residential garage doors are 24 to 26. A spring system will normally be utilized and torsion is added above the middle of the door. A spring is normally more than enough for the smaller garage doors. However, two will be needed when looking at a wide garage door.

Sectional steel garage doors requite high quality rollers that have 10 ball bearings in order to increase the door’s life expectancy. Hinge and bracket thickness should be also taken into account when a good choice is to be made.

A sectional garage steel door is built with steel backing, raised panels, flush panels, locks, windows, insulation and hardware upgrades being possible. The garage will have an impact on the home’s cooling and heating costs so it is normal to see proper isolation with the use of polystyrene with vinyl back. Insulation can also be added between interior and exterior stainless steel panels. The only problem in this case is that costs are much higher and there are more manufacturing steps that will be needed.

Wood

This is another highly popular option for garage doors. Many homeowners now focus on this since it will add a richer and warmer overall feeling to the home. The problem in this case is that it is really important to go through a proper maintenance schedule. When compared with the steel door there are so many different maintenance tasks that will be necessary. That is because wood is naturally prone to rotting and warping. A wooden garage door is also going to be more expensive when first bought when compared with the steel door.

Garage Door Windows

Generally speaking, the windows can be added in absolutely all the garage doors. That is why we should highlight this topic. While many garage owners do not think about adding windows to the doors, this is one opportunity you will want to take into account. There is a wealth of color and design options available right now. All is normally based on homeowner preferences and a coordination that is necessary with the color of the door. You can use the windows whenever you want to but you should make sure that the door is sturdy enough to withstand the extra weight.

Welding Curtains and Other Safety Gear You'll Need for a Home Construction Project

One of the problems that DIYers have at home is not having to hand the safety gear they need to do jobs safely. Whether you’ve had tons of experience welding or this is your very first go at it, you just may be one of the many who simply forget to use important items as welding curtains and an assortment of much needed safety gear. If you are going to do a home construction project, here are a few tips to keep you safe while you complete your project.

Welding Curtains

You might be thinking that you’ll be working alone and at no risk to anyone around you, but can you guarantee that no one will enter into your garage or shop you’ve set up in an outbuilding? Can you guarantee that sparks won’t fly about igniting anything nearby? Of course you can’t, and this is the main reason why you should buy welding curtain screens when doing a bit of DIY welding for a home construction project.

Helmets

Auto darkening Welding Helmets with a grinding facility serve multiple purposes. Masks protect the sensitive skin on your face from radiation burns, and head from flying sparks, and most importantly, offer protection for your eyes from those ultra-bright lights emitted during welding. Make sure your helmet also has a grinding mode, this stops you from having change your head top when switching between grinding & welding.

Clothing and Gloves

As for welders clothing and gloves, this are protective gear that protects your body and hands in much the same way as a helmet protects your head. Sparks and very red-hot metal can easily touch your skin, giving you third degree burns in an instant. While it does get hot with all this safety gear on, it’s better to be sweaty-hot than sustain painful skin damage. Make sure you procure a quality pair of welding gauntlets, some leather welding sleeves and a jacket & apron.

Grounding Clamps

When working with electric welders, you will want to use grounding clamps. Actually, any time you are working with bare metal it should be well earthed. Why? Because all it takes is one bare wire and you could be fried to a crisp. Remember, in the absence of an earth clamp you become the ground wire and all that electricity coursing through your body is simply not healthy! Do you know how many home hobbyists get electrocuted each and every year? Even one is too many, so don’t become a statistic. If you are working with metal, keep it well grounded.

There are just a few of the types of safety gear you are likely to need when starting a home welding project. Most likely you will be renting your equipment anyway, if you are not using the equipment you use on the job as a welder, so check your local supply store to make sure you are well protected before you strike that first arc with a welder. If not, you might not live to regret it.

Boost Employee Wellbeing With Outdoor Working

There is no better feeling than relaxing in the great outdoors, whether you live in a quiet suburban area or in the city, getting outdoors makes you feel great. If you have some outdoor living space and you’re not making the most of it then you are missing out on a great opportunity. If you have a tiny balcony, a roof space of a garden, or even an outdoor area at your business premises; there are lots of ways that you can easily add a bit of character and style to make your area somewhere that you love to kick back and relax.

Not only does being outdoors give you a vitamin D lift, you can enjoy scenic views or even dine outdoors to have a new experience. Now depending on what type of space you have, there will be various possibilities of changes that you can make. Of course you can tray and do the work yourself or if the job is a little larger you should call in a commercial landcape company like Schill Landscaping.

If you’re looking for ways to improve employee wellbeing and productivity, providing a comfortable outdoor space to work or take a break is a fantastic idea. Working outdoors is proven to boost productivity and happy employees are the best employees. Creating a space outdoors for people is not only going to make your existing employees happier to come to work each day, it will also be an attractive perk if you are looking to take on new staff.

You don’t have to spend an absolute fortune on transforming your space. Adding some furniture is all you need to get started. Decking can be installed at very reasonable prices and adding some plants and trees can make a huge difference. Your staff will soon feel rejuvenated and more motivated by their new outdoor freedom and this could turn to increased creativity, that great idea that you’re waiting for could be about to emerge. If you’re not really a believer in this type of psychological impact then that’s okay but research does show that working outdoors stimulates all kinds of productive effects.

A roof space that isn’t being used can soon become an area where colleagues bond at break time, a slab of concrete can become a picturesque landscape. If you start thinking about the art of the possible, there is no limit to what you can achieve through transforming your outdoor space.

If you have smokers at your company, they probably spend a fair bit of time going on a cigarette break but if they are already working outdoors, going to the smoking area won’t take up anywhere near as much time. Hopefully they will feel so happy in their new environment that they may be able to hold off that urge for a cigarette a little bit better.

Whatever you do with that outdoor space, you’re on to a winner when it comes to your employee happiness so it is a great investment.

Scaffolding-Three DIY Home Improvement Projects Where You May Need It

If you are a serial do it yourself type of person and you have some home improvement projects that you are planning to begin this year, you are going to need to assess what tools you have on hand to get the job done. Chances are you already have a well-stocked home improvement arsenal, but you can always add to it, right?

If you have a home improvement project that is going to take you outdoors let’s say to work on your siding, your roof, or maybe indoors on your vaulted ceilings you may need something more than just an average construction ladder.

Depending on your project, you may need to consider scaffolding.

If you project does in fact, require you to invest in some quality scaffolding you will have some work to do to figure out what the best options are for you. Here a few DIY home improvement projects that may be better suited to scaffolding than utilizing a ladder

Exterior Painting

If you are planning on giving your home exterior a new paintjob scaffolding may be a great way to go rather than relying on using a ladder. The benefits of a scaffold tower when painting is valuable to the job. Not only do you have a larger space to work with rather than standing on one rung of a ladder, you can save valuable time because you won’t have to move your tower as much as you would have to move a ladder. You also don’t have to constantly struggle with keeping your balance and instead focus on getting the job done quickly and efficiently.

Window Repairs-same thing goes for working on windows. You may have to reseal your windows, repair broken glass, or just give them a good cleaning. If you have second floor windows or you are working on an apartment building or condominium unit, scaffolding is much better option than utilising ladders. You can utilise the larger work space that the scaffold tower provides to get your job done faster than you would on a ladder.

Working on Ceilings-as any do it yourselfer or professional already knows, working on ceilings is one of the most taxing on your body. If you are working on a ladder, you not only need to control your balance, but you need to keep your focus by looking up at all times. This is not an easy task to do in addition to keeping focus on the actual ceiling work. Working on a scaffolding tower is not only easier on the person doing the job, but it is a much better option when it comes to safety on the job. You can prevent slips and falls, and damage to walls, and existing structures by not having a rusty old ladder leaning up against them.

Whatever home improvement project you are focusing on, the benefits to you and your project are worth checking into your options.

How to Add a Touch of Luxury to Your Home

Style is subjective. It is therefore almost impossible to create the perfect home. What you can do is create an interior that complements your taste. We all want to return to a home that oozes luxury and comfort, and here is how you can do exactly that…

The Dining Room

Your dining room is one of the most functional rooms within the home, as it is the place you will only go to eat and enjoy the company of your family and friends. However, that doesn’t mean it should be overlooked when it comes to style.

The focal point of a dining room is, of course, the dining table and chairs. It is therefore important to select a standout piece that will wow your guests, but provides a practical space to dine. Visit www.danetti.com for inspiration.

The Living Room

A subtly styled living room can come to life with one interesting textile. If you like to keep things simple, you can use one colour on your living room walls, which could be complemented by an antique Turkish rug, this will offer shape and texture to a room. It will also inject a little personality.

You could also splash some colour into a room by hanging a large-scale piece of art on your wall. You don’t have to opt for an expensive piece, either. Visit your local art shop to find affordable artwork that suits your taste and interior, or browse some cheap works of art that are available to order online. The only thing that might cost you is a fancy frame!

The Bathroom

It is hard to add much personality into a bathroom, but it can be achieved with a little creativity. Instead of opting for the usual nautical theme, create a beautiful bathroom by incorporating an antique fitting, such as antique brass taps, a Victorian urinal or a 1920s chandelier. Not only will this create a rather charming bathroom, but it will become an interesting talking point when guests come to visit.

The Hallway

The hallway provides a first impression of your interior – so you will want to wow your guests and the best way to do just that is with an exquisite chandelier. This one simple accessory can add a touch of glamour and style to even the dullest hallway.

The Kitchen

Tiling is a great way to spruce up a tired kitchen. Pick a tile shade and style that complements your cupboards and worktops. You will be amazed what a difference they can make to your interior design.

The Bedroom

We all dream of our beds after a long, hard day, which is why you should ensure it is the star of the show in your bedroom. One of the most beautiful frame designs to choose from is a sleigh bed, which offers shape and extravagance to any bedroom. Teamed with a beautiful bedspread and throw and you will never want to leave the comfort of your bedroom.

Signs That It Is Time To Remodel Your Kitchen

Contrary to popular belief, most people have no idea when it is actually time to remodel the kitchen. Remodelling is normally seen as something that should be done just when some damage exists. This is completely incorrect. In reality we have so many cases in which it is a very good idea to remodel the kitchen. If you are thinking about this option, here are some clear signs that you want to consider remodelling.

Appliances Fall Apart

Remodelling the kitchen does not necessarily mean that you have to invest in designer kitchen appliances but when the appliances you have are falling apart, it is a clear sign you will need to seriously consider a remodel project. Replacements are available but if major appliances should be changed, a larger remodelling is normally a very good idea.

Kitchen Cabinets Lost Luster And Color

Out of all the furniture present in the kitchen, the cabinets are those that automatically stand out. When you have cabinets in your kitchen that lose their luster or color, the entire kitchen ends up being ugly. It is time to do something to bring back the cabinets to life. Refacing and replacing are viable options.

Not Being At Ease

You will spend a lot of time in the kitchen. This is especially the case for those that love to cook. Because of this, when you start feeling uneasy while you are inside the kitchen, it is time to think about a remodelling project. Kitchens have to be rooms where you are completely comfortable. When this is no longer the case, you want to do something.

Visitors Are Not Allowed In The Kitchen

If you find yourself in the situation in which you do not want to see visitors in your kitchen, it is a great sign that you have to start a remodelling project. Showing off the kitchen is something of high importance for many home owners. As this changes, you want to do something about it.

You Do Not Want To Eat In The Kitchen

The homely and well-designed kitchen will always be welcoming to the family and to visitors. You should be able to comfortably eat inside the kitchen. If you notice that you would rather eat anywhere else, kitchen remodelling becomes a viable option that you want to take into account.

Remodelling The Home

If you want to start a larger home remodel project, it is quite obvious that you want to also consider making changes to your kitchen. In fact, it is highly recommended that you start with calculating budgets by focusing on the kitchen first. That is because of how much time you spend in this room.

Conclusions

Remember that kitchen remodelling projects are costly and tend to be lengthy. Do be sure that you really want to make changes and once you start, be sure you use a proper budget for this project. There is nothing worse than ending up with a kitchen that is not finished when you remodel. Be sure that you calculate everything properly for a great result.

Use These Tips To Choose A Retractable Roof

Adding a retractable roof to the exterior of a home is definitely an idea that can be considered. This is a stylish option that offers protection and creates comfort. Just look at the popular retractable fabric roofs and you can instantly figure out why people now consider these additions.

The problem is that many homeowners do not know much about the retractable roof. Because of this, it is difficult to make good choices. If you want to make a really good choice, here are some tips to help you make truly great choices.

Focus On Outdoor Needs

You need to first think about why you want to install the retractable roof in the first place. Is it necessary to extend the living space or do you want to protect a patio? The purpose of use will have a huge impact on the number of choices that are actually going to be good for the project you had in mind.

At the same time, it is really important that you think about lighting needs that might arise. If you make a bad choice with the retractable roof it is possible you end up with a system that does not allow you to install good lights.

House Style

Adding a retractable roof that does not match the style of the home is always a bad idea. Style and design will influence existing structure size and shape. Really good suppliers allow you to customize the retractable roof you add but that is not always the case. Make sure that you only consider those retractable options that will make the home more attractive.

Weather Proofing

One of the things you want to consider and that many homeowners do not take into account is weather and water proofing. Harsh weather conditions can easily have an effect on the choices that are great and the choices that are not so good. An ideal retractable roof will have a higher wind rating than what you initially consider. At the same time, the system has to be fully water tight and sturdy.

Material Quality

Talking about sturdiness, you want to be sure that you choose those materials that are really good. A product that will be made out of really high quality materials is going to last for a really long period of time. You want the retractable roof to last for years without needing repairs. Be sure that when you look at material quality you also think about the electronic system and the motor that will be added.

Installation Quality

Last but not least, you want to be sure that the people that will install the retractable roof will be really good at their job. Installation always plays an important role in building a good retractable roof. In an attempt to save money we see many homeowners that simply work with the cheap service providers. This is a really bad idea. Looking at past projects is a great way to determine craftsmanship quality and you have to remember that in many cases paying a little more will deliver better results.

Things Homeowners Should Know About Roofing

When it comes to roofing it is easy to notice that most homeowners do not know much about it. Roofs seem simple to build but this perception is the case simply because we do not think about this part of the home. Modern roofs are so much better than what they used to be like. For instance, even something that seems simple like the outdoor Louvre roof is much more complex than what many imagine. If you want to repair your roof or build a new one, you want to remember the following important things.

The Dry-In Process

When a roofing contractor is ready to do the work, you want to inspect nailing and framing. Dried-in roofing is very important as a project benchmark. That is especially the case in areas that are damp. Drying out the entire project should at least include roof paper.

Focus On Simple Details When Designing Roofs

There are many different roofing situations but in all cases there is a simple solution that helps you to guarantee the project will go a lot better. Focus on that in order to end up with a high quality roof that will withstand the test of time. Going for something unique or revolutionary can be highly problematic.

Roof Details Should Handle Different Conditions

With roofs it is always better to focus on many weather conditions and not just think about some you are used to in the area where you live. You want the home to be sturdy for as long as possible. Only focus on something that will be highly durable. Using the best materials, those that are proven to be resistant is a great idea.

Understand Benefits Of Metal And Its Properties

One of the big parts of building a roof is using metal. It is really important you understand exactly how metal will be bended (a process builders refer to with the name broken). Then, see how much metal is going to expand, together with lengths that it can reach. Will metal be delivered in a roll and then cut to the right length? The more you know about how metal will be used for the building of a roof, the higher the possibility to make good choices.

During Design Stage Also Design Venting

Venting is extremely important for how the finished roof will look like, not just for the obvious need to have venting in a roof. If you do not plan venting design properly, the result is going to be something that does not look great. You can consider so many options these days when referring to venting, ranging from roof peak vents to soffit venting. You are surely interested in the modern look of the roof and you do not want to end up with something that is not going to be pleasant to the eyes of the viewer.

Remember these are just some of the things of interest that have to be considered when designing and building roofs. Professionals will consider so much more. If you do not know how to build a great looking and functional roof, it is the professionals that should be involved.

4 Things You Need To Do When Buying Your First Home

Getting on the housing ladder is a huge step (pardon the pun) towards our future. Buying

a home is the biggest purchase you will make in your lifetime. So making sure you get it right is vital. It’s not like you can return your house to the shop!

We’ve pulled together the a simple guide to help make the process a little easier and hopefully get you that little bit closer to moving you into your first home.

Research The Area

This may sound obvious. But knowing an area and understanding an area are two different things. Safety should be high on your list of wants in your street or apartment. Go through newspaper articles or find social media forums to give you an understanding of what really goes on every day.

Regardless of whether you have children or you think you might hear the patter of tiny feet in the distant future, schooling should feature high on your priorities. Get to know the local schools and colleges checking out their reports and seeing how the pupils achieve. Jumping in your car and visiting schools or finding an online group of local parents will help you build a balanced understanding of the standard of education in your area.

Anyone who needs to commute should pay particular attention to the road network surrounding their favoured location. Check out local accident hotspots and find out if there are simple alternative routes should any road closures happen. What could be worse than living in a street that only has one choice of access leaving you stuck at home or constantly late for the office!

Check out this article on other pointers for buying a new home

Understand the Itinerary

When you view a house, look further than the potential. As you walk around the house take notes of any systems your house comes with. From boilers to white goods. Don’t forget the security system. If you see an ADT alarm on the front, get online and read ADT alarm reviews to understand what system you have. Do the same with boilers and heating systems and showers. Check out if there are any known faults or concerns with the products in your potential new home. Knowledge is king and being aware of any potential issues before you part with your money will give you something to negotiate with or a reason to feel confident. It will also give you a good idea of the previous owners care of their home.

Don’t Be Blinded By Bad Design

Everyone has their own idea of home style. Some put more thoughts into it than others. When you walk into a potential new home don’t get put off by the contents or layout of the previous owner. Think big. As a homeowner you have a long time ahead of you to really turn this house into something to be proud of. Walls can be removed. Carpets can be changed for floor boards. You need to look beyond what is there and focus on the potential of the house. If you aren’t confident in your own vision, take a friend with a keen eye for design. Focus hard on the area, does the size of the property fit your brief? Is the garden big enough? Those are the things that aren’t easy, or sometimes possible, to change. If everything else is perfect, the area and the price, remember a house is just a shell. Think outside of the box and work out how to build your dream space. Viewing empty houses is often easier than when the current occupants are still there. But remember, you aren’t buying them too! Just be a little sensitive if they are showing you around their cat themed living room and try to quietly consider the potential.

Get Professional Advice

From loans to home improvements you need to assemble a team of people who can give you the best advice for you. Start by finding a friend you trust. You need someone who can see things clearly but has your best interests at heart. Real estate Agents work on commission to make them work hard for their money. Set boundaries and stick to them, don’t let them convince you that an extra bedroom will come in really handy. Or that another few thousand will get you a house with a bigger garden.

A pragmatic financial advisor is your best friend when it comes to buying a house. Be honest about your financial habits and above all listen to their advice. They have no agenda other than making sure you can live within your means.

From glam to calm and points in between

Are you someone  who loves pretty, sparkly, elegant, or glamorous in home decor?

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 Do you love to continually redecorate, change with the seasons etc. Are you someone who loves accessories?  Many people have this "refined" up to date, concept of beauty and want their living spaces to reflect that.

Believe it or not, there are also people who are equally determined not to have spaces that are perfect and new. They like more pared down, earthy, calm environments that have "real" objects in them.  Some refer to this look as zen.

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As in all things there is usually a middle road that people like to take.  I am certainly not, nor never have been, attracted to glamorous spaces, with silk, sparkle and too much excess.  Comfortable, calm and clean lined is more my vibe.


I have always found the Japanese world view/aesthetic of wabi sabi that acknowledges three simple realities: nothing lasts, nothing is finished, and nothing is perfect, very freeing. Such beliefs allow you to accept the dents, scratches, wrinkles, splits, cracks and scuffs as part of the history of a piece that makes it unique and authentic.  If you want to know more about wabi sabi check out this post.

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Natural materials predominate in wabi sabi homes: paper, aged wood, linens, cottons, etc. Look for anything that celebrates the  marks of time, weather, and  the effects of loving use. In other words look for objects with history on their surfaces.

 I am definitely attracted to the tenets  of wabi sabi, and if you went around my home you would see subtle evidence of my interest in the marks of time, wood, and natural materials like cotton and linen.
But you would also see pristine, light, glass  and leather.  For me combining new and old  is also a statement that  probably brings more attention to the less than perfect objects and what they mean.

I find spaces that have obviously combined the up to date with the old and authentic very interesting, and I think about them as approaching wabi sabi rather than fully embracing it.

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An old door made new with yellow

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A less than perfect stool in a white bathroom

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Pristine white sofas paired with antique, simple tables and a wooden bowl.

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An updated but old space with remnants of the world outside displayed.  

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Modern art paired with a rustic bench and less than perfect but evocative pottery. 

Isn't  great interest created when you set up comparisons in your space?  

Choosing A New Home That Ticks All The Boxes

Buying a new home is always an exciting and joyful time. But, there’s also a lot going on during these times. You have to make so many decisions, and there’s not much time to do everything. This makes it easy to forget about the little things that make a house a home. This post will go through just a few things that you have to think about when choosing a home, even when you’re really busy!

Of course, the location of your new home is incredibly important. It needs to be close to where you work. And, it needs to be close to where your kids go to school. This information is easy to find if you know where to look online. Most property sites will display schools and public transport that’s close by to your choices. Ideally, you want to be in an area with a low crime rate. This information can usually be found on the local police force’s website.

You want your new home to last as long as possible. This means that when you decide on a size for your home, it’s essential to make sure that you consider the future. If you’re a growing family, you may need more rooms in the future. Having to move house with children can be a great challenge. So, it’s best to make sure you’re settled before you have any! It can also be good to make sure that rooms will be suitable for older children. Small rooms will do when they’re very young. But, they’ll need more space as they get older.

The age of a property will define the costs that it will incur during that time that you own it. Newer houses are much less prone to problems in the short term. But, they could be riskier in the long run. Older houses will always be more expensive, though. Work on these buildings will usually cost more than modern equivalents. So, it’s worth factoring this in before you buy a house, it’s a good idea to have it surveyed. This will help you to determine if the house currently needs work done to it.

Getting the money together for a home is the hardest part. Most people end up spending a long time saving and getting a mortgage down a traditional route. But, there are quite a few alternatives to this path. You can use a government-backed loan or a buy to lease mortgage. These options give you a lot of choices when it comes to funding the whole thing. To find the best prices on mortgages, it’s best to use a site like LendingTree.

Hopefully, this will inspire you to avoid skipping the little things when it comes to buying your next home. Thinking about your family in twenty years is a good way to visualise what you may need. You have to think over a long time span for purchases like this. Of course, this means that you have to do some research. Laws and rules are different everywhere. This means that you have to make sure that you know the rules where you are.

The Energy Efficient Windows Kitchener Builders Love

It's not only LEED building projects that use energy efficient windows and doors; builders use energy efficient construction materials on any number of projects to help homeowners lower their costs and improve the comfort of their home. In Kitchener, Ontario, local builders turn to local manufacturers using made-in-Kitchener windows and doors. Energy efficient windows offer a multitude of benefits including:

• long-lasting, durable design that doesn't require frequent repair or replacement
• improved energy efficiency and environmentally friendly design
• no maintenance required
• design flexibility with a variety of styles and materials
• added home value when reselling

There are plenty of window and door manufacturers who make their products in Southern Ontario, but companies like Kitchener’s Golden Windows make Energy Star-approved windows and are certified with the ISO for their quality control procedures. When you’re buying energy efficient housing materials, all you need to know is that the product has the Energy Star sticker – Energy Star is a program run in cooperation with the government of Canada that regulates the performance standards of products with its sticker. When it comes to windows, different climates have different performance requirements to match, but anything made locally for the Southwestern Ontario market should be made for the area’s snowy winters and hot summers. Besides supporting the local economy, the advantage of going with a Kitchener based window company is that you can visit their showrooms or work with them to build windows and doors to your specifications.

According to House Logic, homeowners replacing older windows with at least average-quality energy efficient vinyl windows will net an 80 percent return on investment, making it a popular renovation choice. As a homebuilder or renovator, you want to work with a company that can provide your client with cost savings or add to the appeal of the house.

Immediate Benefits

Today's eco-designs use a variety of materials, including aluminum, vinyl, and wood, to craft functional windows with stylish form. Window designs from Golden Windows, for example, include a variety of grille patterns and colours, allowing builders and renovators to match any interior or exterior design. Properly installed energy efficient windows also offer savings to the homeowner over the long-term, including:

• lower heat and air conditioning costs, even during peak load times
• improvements in comfort such as blocking drafts and filtering hot sunlight
• condensation reduction
• increased light in the home

· reduced fading of fabric materials including carpet, artwork, paper, and wood by reducing the type and intensity of radiation entering the home via sunlight.

Installation

Ideally, you'll find a design you love by a manufacturer who can also install their own windows; this enhances the quality of installation since the manufacturer trains its employees on the specific nature and design of the products. A manufacturer that serves local community needs and works with builders to perfect the installation provides homeowners with better customer service and performance.

Energy efficient windows are a great choice for your home or business and when you're ready to build or remodel, just look for made in Kitchener windows and doors. You'll know you're supporting a local business, finding the right design for your new home or remodeling project, saving yourself money over the long-term, and benefitting Ontario's economy.

WHAT IS THE BEST SPLASHBACK FOR ME AND MY KITCHEN?

There are many practical reasons to install splashbacks in your kitchen. They protect your walls from splashes of water, grease stains, and marks from splattering food. However, just because there’s a practical side to installing a splashbacks into your kitchen, that doesn’t mean it has to be bland and boring. There are a ton of designs to make your space as stylish as possible. The high-grade splashbacks supplier The Plastic People have some advise on how to find the perfect splashback for your kitchen.

REASONS TO CHOOSE ACRLYIC SPLASHBACKS
• Easy to keep clean. All you have to do is wipe with some water and soap, and you don’t have to worry about any grouting.
• It’s cheaper than many other options.
• There are many colours to choose from.
• It’s tough, impact resistant, and very light in weight.

REASONS TO CHOOSE CORIAN SPLASHBACKS
• Easy to keep clean. Water and a gentle soap product will do.
• Stain resistant.
• Digital images can be printed on the material if you so choose.
• It’s tough and hardwearing. It’s also heat resistant.
• It can be easily matched with the material used for a sink and a kitchen work surface.

REASONS TO CHOOSE GLASS & MIRRORED SPLASHBACKS
• Great for modern kitchens.
• It’s an antibacterial material.
• Easy to clean. A dry cloth and glass cleaner should do the trick.
• Gives the illusion of more space in your kitchen.
• It’s safe and durable.

REASONS TO CHOOSE LAMINATE SPLASHBACKS
• Easy to clean. Water and detergent are all that’s needed.
• Has a wide variety of designs to choose from.
• Highly durable.
• It doesn’t requite sealing when installed.

REASONS TO CHOOSE STAINLESS STEEL SPLASHBACKS
• Easy to clean. Water and detergent are all that’s needed.
• Doesn’t require sealing.
• Highly practical.
• It reflects light and gives more light to your kitchen. This is perfect for a small kitchen.
• Gives your kitchen an industrial or rustic theme.

REASONS TO CHOOSE STONE SPLASHBACKS
• There’s a large variety of choice. From limestone, marble, or even sandstone, plus many more choices.
• It’s hardwearing and ages well.
• Easy to clean.

REASONS TO CHOOSE TILED SPLASHBACKS
• Lots of designs to choose from, including mosaic patterns.
• Wide variety of colours.
• Can be cut to size. This is great for corners of your kitchen, or to put around sockets.
• Cleaning it is easy.

REASONS TO CHOOSE WOOD SPLASHBACKS
• Great for a designer look.

Warm water and non-abrasive cleaner is all you need to clean the material. Although, this material needs to be cared for regularly.

Finding Items You Can Decorate Your Home With

Have you just moved into a home that needs to be decorated? If this is the case, you have many options available to you in terms of how to go about decorating your home in a way that will give it class and elegance. Decorating your new home is not something you should be in a rush to complete. You need to take your time to ensure that each room of your home has its own personality based on the various decorations that you place in it. So how can you acquire the home decorations that you need to make your home look spectacular? Here are a few solid ideas that will assist you in completing this task.

1. Visit yard sales to find old antiques that you can no longer buy in stores.

Some of the most amazing finds when it comes to antiques and other things to decorate your house with can be found when people are having yard sales. Perhaps an elderly person has recently died. His or her relatives are selling the person's old possessions to make some extra money. You can buy some truly beautiful items to decorate your house with for far below what they would be valued at if the sellers had them appraised. Many of the items you will be able to buy have not been made in many years. Always keep your eye out for yard sales when the weather is nice.

2. Read classified ads in the newspaper and online.

People will often sell some terrific items in the classifieds. Therefore, it would be worthwhile to take a few minutes each day to glance at what people in your area are selling in these ads. You might be very surprised at the amazing bargains you will be able to come across. There are many times when the sellers have no idea what they are selling. You can take advantage of their ignorance by snatching up some beautiful items to decorate your home with.

3. Stop by your local flea markets on a regular basis.

Flea markets are places where people try to sell the items that they no longer have any use for. Once again, you will be able to find lovely home decorations like a boxwood wreath for far less than you would pay for them in a regular retail store.

Biggest Senior Housing Design Draws

Are you in charge of a senior housing facility? Or, do you plan on starting up one of these communities in the near future? Or maybe you are simply looking for a place for you or a loved one to live in. If any of these reasons apply to you, then it would be a good idea to know what separates a good senior housing facility from a bad one. What are the biggest draws? What factors does a senior weigh when making their decision? Below are some of the biggest draws that senior living communities have - so whether you are looking to promote a facility that you run, or want to know what to keep in mind during your search, keep these items in mind.

Spacious

First of all, the living area should have plenty of room. This goes for not only each senior's private areas, but for the communal areas as well. Seniors should have enough room to move around comfortably, and accommodate an assistant if need be. Places like bathrooms should be wide enough for two, and common areas need to be large enough that no one has to squeeze to get through. Hallways should be wide enough for those in wheelchairs to move around easily, as well as outdoor footpaths. People might get a little bit smaller as they get older, but that doesn't mean they need less room. No one likes to feel crowded or cramped, so a spacious living arrangement is a necessity.

Easy To Use

Daily tasks become a little bit more difficult as time goes by. Arthritis creeps in, walking becomes harder, and tasks we once thought as simple are no longer completed with ease. You want a senior living facility that recognizes this, and tries to accommodate for it. Things like high-up shelves, hard to turn doorknobs, or hard to read signs are all things that will make life a little more difficult for a senior. When planning out a senior living center, a good architect will think about the challenges seniors face in their daily tasks, and how to incorporate solutions into their plans.

Outdoor Amenities

A great senior living facility is more than the rooms. Seniors are eventually going to want to get outside, and having good outdoor amenities are essential towards the draw of any location. Nearby parks, shops and restaurants are all a plus, while on-site footpaths, outdoor lounges and recreation areas are also great. No one wants to be cooped up inside all the time, so seniors need to have a reason to go outside. When comparing two senior living centers against one another, pay close attention to the one that places an emphasis on the outdoor design and amenities.

On-Site Care

As we get older, the number of health problem we face increase. Seniors typically need more health care services nearby compared to the rest of us, therefore the best senior living facilities will reflect that. Not only should the accommodations have room for a live-in helper if needed, but medical services should be on-site as well. These services should also be more than emergency care, but also provide things like memory care units to help seniors with issues related to memory loss – such as dementia. Not only are seniors more likely to need medical care, but it is also harder for them to access it, so having it built into the same facility is a large advantage.

Only Choose The Best

There are plenty of senior living communities out there, but they are not all created equal. Whether you are looking to run one, or live in one, you want your senior living facility to be the best. You want a location that has anticipated the needs of seniors, and when it comes to design, the senior housing architect's design increases comfort and safety.

When comparing different senior living facilities, it is obvious which locations paid attention to their design. These locations will know what seniors are looking for, and will have implemented these needs into their designs from the beginning. Hopefully the above items will help you to figure out what makes a senior living center stand out above the rest, and will be able to make strong decisions going