There is a well-established myth in the world of interior design that wood flooring and underfloor heating simply aren’t compatible. This isn’t difficult to believe. Wood as we all know is a fairly temperamental material – contracting and expanding in different climates.

However, when it comes to flooring, there are ways around this. And it simply isn’t true that you can only have one of wooden floorboards or underfloor heating and not the other. Below is a guide on how to compromise to enjoy the best of both worlds.

The myth

Natural wood gives a great, traditional, rustic look to your house. So it would be a shame to sacrifice this to accommodate for your underfloor heating. According to the myth associated with the flooring, the natural wood will expand in hot weather and then contract in cold weather.

Therefore, underfloor heating will make the wood expand, which could lead to the floor rising, only to contract again and leave large gaps between the planks. Thus your only choice would be to buy engineered floorboards instead.

However, whilst this is true about wooden flooring and wood as a material to an extent, there are ways around this. You just need to do plenty of research.

Solutions

There are several things to be aware of before you purchase wooden flooring that will be compatible with underfloor heating. A good guide to this is included here, which lists several key things to look out for. Firstly, be aware of the manufacturer’s quality control process. The floors you need will have to have consistently low moisture content to counteract the heating. They should also be pre-finished.

Many companies will have invested in and boast about their research into using underfloor heating with their floors. One of these companies would be the ideal choice, and they can be recommended by the Underfloor Heating Manufacturer’s Association should you need some assistance. You want to find a company with experience, technical expertise and, if possible, a guarantee which protects you alongside your use of underfloor heating.

Different types of wooden flooring

Timber is, in most cases, compatible with underfloor heating. However, as above, the timber should have been recommended for use with this. Furthermore, the flooring should have a top temperature of around 27°C, and an expansion gap around the edges to allow room to maneuver in.

Similarly, with vinyl or laminates, you should ensure that the flooring is definitely compatible with underfloor heating by contacting the manufacturer. Many of these suppliers will have already developed their own underfloor heating systems, or will have ones they can recommend.

There are still many options available to you should you want to enjoy both wooden flooring and underfloor heating. It’s simply a matter of properly investigating before you jump into it, otherwise you could encounter problems further down the line. But there is always expert advice out there, and you shouldn’t be afraid of asking as many questions as necessary to the advisers. After all, you want to enjoy these floors for a long time. And if you follow this guide, hopefully you will.

Stephen MacVicar runs Green Apple Flooring, a specialist in wooden floors and laminates. Green Apple Flooring is based on Essex and deliver all over the UK.

Different people lead their lives in different ways, but most of them will agree around some basic things about home design...

And all believe that home design is a must. Of course, the degree of refinement, interests and success vary from individual to individual.

Some people feel comfortable in their mess, so they wonder what the need for order is. We have reasons why it is necessary to design your interior with a sense and keep your home neat.

Make your home neat and comfortable

If everything in your home is OK, if it is neatly organized and designed so you can move around freely, then life becomes easier. If your home is neat when you come home from work you won't spend your time clearing things and trying to find your home. Organize your home for a more peaceful living and a more relaxed feeling every time you look at it.

A properly designed home is healthier

Using the colors you like in your home will definitely lift your mood. One of the basics of home design is using the right colors and shades. You need to create visual harmony. Soothing colors and light shades will lift your mood and instantly make you feel better.

Use the colors you like

When you design your home in the right way, you will instantly feel better. Maybe you had a tough day at work, you come home, and everything seems better. It's because of your home, the way you designed it. The colors can either lift your mood or bring it down. The light too. More light means a better mood. Open your light filtering blinds and let the light come in, you will instantly feel better.

Your home tells a story about you

It is common practice to have people at your house, friends, family. A well designed home won't just help you improve your image, it also makes the visitors feel comfortable in your home, which can have a positive effect, on your personal and professional life.

A well designed home makes movement easier

Unlike a randomly organized interior, a well designed and planned home will make movement easier. Next to that, it will give more energy to you and your family, especially if you remove the extra walls, so the space looks bigger and lighter. It is not easy living in a bunker, it affects your mood too.

A properly designed home satisfies your needs

When you design your home the way it should be designed, when you fit it with your needs and the needs of the people who are living in it, you will feel better. For example, a home that is designed for newlyweds will be private and romantic, smooth and sophisticated, unlike a home for a small family. The home design needs to be bent to the wishes and desires of the occupants, it makes their lives easier.

So think well about the design of your home and the organization of your home, give it a right purpose and the ambiance that will fit you.

Milan Budimkic is a creative freelance writer for industries that include but are not limited to the home decor, travel, entertainment, and much more. When not blogging, Milan likes to travel and read a lot.

One of the least understood parts of a home from an owner's perspective is the heating system. This is largely because if you have central heating, you will likely have specialized people to ensure that it is regularly maintained. Like an automobile, any warranty is normally contingent upon the owner showing records of that maintenance. Maintaining it yourself without qualifications merely raises the bar from the manufacturer's or installer's representatives point of view.

Fortunately, if it does fail and you have good records, you can rely upon them in conjunction with the people that are providing you an estimate on repair or replacement in order to try and find the root cause of the problem.

Here are some tips on determining what went wrong so that you can ensure that the system is covered if it qualifies for coverage

If you have a homeowner's warranty that covers heating systems

Ensure that your record of maintenance meets the minimum requirements with regards to the policy that you have. If it does, contact the warranty customer service people and file a claim.

If you have a manufacturer's or installer's warranty

Follow much the same procedure and then find an experienced professional heating repair firm that will write you an estimate that includes their opinion of why the heating system failed. If it is covered by the warranty, then use the warranty to file a claim.

If you do not have a warranty

In this type of circumstance, if you do not have a background in heating design, it could be difficult to do to much troubleshooting on your own. Instead, it might be better to contact an experienced professional heating repair firm as mentioned above and get their opinion on why the system failed. If it is a major problem and the system needs to be replaced, then you might consider taking their findings to an outside expert to have them provide you with a paid second opinion. Most outside heating experts serve as expert witnesses in court and when they are working for their client, they are impartial and do not serve the interests of the manufacturer or the installer.

Regardless of the outcome, in that circumstance, you will likely learn more about heating systems than you probably ever had as a result of your conversations with them. If a manufacturer part was deemed to be potentially faulty, you can check to see if it has ever been recalled and if repairs were made to it online. If the expert points out ducting or assembly that was done incorrectly as the reason for your system failure, you can document it so that you can approach a representative of the installer.

Keep in mind that oftentimes, the results of any check into why the heating system failed will turn up a couple of percentages: one that points out the major reason it failed and another that highlights wear and tear or other minor reasons that impacted the system over time. These percentages can be helpful when it comes to deciding how to proceed.

Another frequent occurrence is that the system does not need to be replaced, but a part does. In this circumstance, if the qualified repair firm has provided you with that estimate, you can follow through with either the manufacturer or the installer while utilizing the repair person to make the necessary repairs.

Overall, it is never a good day when your heating system fails. By using repair experts in your community to help you determine why it did fail, you will likely save time and money.

Charlie Teschner started MESA Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling in 1982. Charlie has a journeyman and master plumber’s license. He was raised with a strong work ethic and he now applies those values to tasks such as Longmont, CO heating repair.

Are you spending too much on gas and electricity? If you’ve never changed energy companies orhaven’t switched in the last two years, you could be £200 richer if you switch today.

According to a report from the Competition and Markets Authority (published 18 February), 95% of customers who receive their energy from the Big Six suppliers (British Gas, Npower, EDF, E.ON, Scottish Power and SSE) could save over £200 a year for a low-medium usage household, or over £400 a year for a high usage household. However, relatively few people bother to switch to a better deal.

Figures from the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) indicate that 13.5 million UK households have never switched energy supplier despite the savings on offer. The CMA meanwhile reports that 40% of British Gas domestic gas customers have been with the company for over 10 years, despite it being one of the most expensive. Overall, 40-50% of all electricity customers are still with their original supplier.

Use your Power to Switch

DECC has released a new campaign called Power to Switch, which aims to raise awareness of the benefits of switching energy companies, highlighting that millions of homeowners are paying £200 too much for their gas and electricity each year by not switching energy companies.

Power to Switch affirms the reasons why now is the time to switch, with the government having made several changes that make the energy market more accessible and easier to understand. Find out more at www.goenergyshopping.co.uk.

Switch and save

If you’ve never switched energy companies or haven’t changed your tariff for a few years, you will almost certainly save money by switching today. Check your current supplier’s website (or give them a call) to see whether it’s worth switching to another one of their tariffs.

If you want to switch energy suppliers without using a price comparison website, it’s a good idea to choose one of the smaller, independent suppliers. Don’t be put off if you haven’t heard of them – they’re usually cheaper and their service is just as good. In reality, you’ll rarely need to contact them if you set up Direct Debit payments and submit regular meter readings anyway.

Switching energy companies is now faster

Independent energy company First Utility’s successful Fix the Switch campaign helped make switching gas and electricity supplier faster than ever before. In November 2014, the time it takes to switch supplier was slashed from five weeks to two and a half weeks (including a two week cooling off period and three days for the switch). The next goal is 24-hour switching, an ambition which has been backed by industry regulator Ofgem.

Faster switching means getting a better deal on your gas and electricity easier, so find out more about how to switch energy companies or call the Energy Saving Advice Service on 0300 123 1234 for personal advice.

Colin Urquart is a political commentator and energy blogger. He works with various agencies to support change in the energy sector.

Window seats can be a great addition to the dining room by adding not only additional seating but also a comfortable place to enjoy a good view or a form of additional storage. A common additional to virtually any kind of decor, window seat is a universally appealing way to add charm and a welcoming atmosphere to your dining room.

This charming modern dining room features a subdued color palette with soft warm and cool shades balanced expertly by large windows and white walls. The long bench features drawers that provide additional storage in a room that traditionally cannot get enough and the upholstery and cushions add softness to a room that would otherwise feel Spartan.

This cozy kitchen intended to evoke the comfort of the French countryside features lots of rich, natural wood and rustic fixtures. With traditionally shaped furniture and a bold cast iron chandelier, this old world kitchen is well complemented by the lovely window seat bench that offers great views and fresh air. The window seat bench here can also improve the value of the house, especially for houses with traditional interior designs.

This fantastic dining room demonstrates that it is good to get creative with your interior design. By framing the fireplace with identical window seats, this designer has ensured that the white fireplace surround pops out from the blue wall and grabs the attention. The charming benches offer additional storage while providing an excellent balance to the intensity of the blue walls and rich wood floor. The additional storage provided by these window seats will be very useful for utilizing maximum space of a houses with smaller area.

Beach House

Making the most of the fantastic view from this stunning dining room, this long window bench wraps around the room to add a soft, coziness to a space dominated by clean lines and lots of natural light. The charming wicker chairs and natural wood table help to evoke an inviting and casual atmosphere. The simple style of the window seat helps to maintain focus on the real highlight of the room – all those beautiful, big windows that offer a 360° view of the surrounding countryside.

Roof Top Penthouse

This eat in kitchen not only includes a full sized table with convenient tuck under stools but also a wall of window seats perfect for keeping guests nearby but out of the cook’s way during dinner parties. The spectacular view will pull them to the window and the comfortable seating and proximity to the action will keep them there.

Traditional Comfort

This traditional dining nook makes great use of space in a small room and provides a surprising amount of seating space with the simple combination of a curved window seat set into a bay window and a small round table. Charming, inviting, and picturesque, this dining room demonstrates the difference between small and cozy.

Window seats are not just for providing seating space, but it can also provide additional storage, improve aesthetics of the house and it can also improve the value of the house. The comfort and exterior view provided by window seats makes it a great addition for any house and recommended by many interior designers to install, especially after a new window installation or window replacement.

Gina Brewton has been in the home improvement industry for the past 7 years. She is presently working at a residential cleaning company in Toronto. She is also a part time interior designer. She has her interests in cooking, photography, craft and painting. Follow her on twitter@ginabrewton.

Our homes are hosts to so many events throughout every season that sometimes keeping it clean can simply be unreasonable. Carpets are typically the first to go as your guests move about your home. Over time, carpets show signs of aging that no home owner wants to see. These problems range from simple visual unpleasantness to mildew and mold that can harm the health of the occupants. Getting your carpet replaced isn’t difficult but it is an investment, and one that can increase your home's property value substantially. Let’s go over some of the top reasons why you might want to commit to such an investment.

Stains

Carpet stains are a part of life -- they will eventually occur no matter how hard you try to prevent them. Even cleaning these stains can be pointless as some get too absorbed into the carpet for household cleaners to work. The outward appearance might not be your biggest problem either as many of these stains end up causing mildew and mold to form underneath the carpet. I think we have all rented a carpet cleaning product only to be disappointed by the results we achieve.

Smells

Throughout the course of your carpet's life, it will be introduced to so many unpleasant smells you wouldn’t want to list them all. One of the biggest offenders would be pet stains as they can cause a horrid stench for seemingly endless periods of time. Pets are not the only source of problematic smells, misbehaving children and sick guests can be problems on their own. If you can smell your carpet, it’s probably time to get it replaced.

Ruined Padding

Underneath our carpet lies a padding that gives our carpets a little bit of cushion and comfort. The constant traffic we put our homes through will eventually cause that padding to wear down and lose quality. As the padding degrades, it can begin to become uneven, wrinkle, and even make crinkling noises when in use. That padding can also end up absorbing stains that you will either smell or see later.

Animal Hair

Pet owners understand that over time, animal hair and dander seemingly can merge with the carpet. When this happens, vacuums become meaningless and guests with allergies suffer. Replacing that carpet will reduce allergens and allow your guests to breathe easier.

General Wear and Tear

Kids, animals, furniture, and painting all share one thing in common they can ruin your carpet. Animals claw at the carpet, resulting in strands of carpet littering the floor and clogging your vacuum. Moving in new furniture, especially metal furniture, can sometimes snag on the carpet and end up tearing it. All of these issues add up and end up ruining the carpet you once cherished.

With the many hectic situations we encounter in life, maintaining a clean carpet can be troublesome. Thankfully getting your carpet replaced isn’t as difficult as many would believe. Installation often takes only a day or two, and the costs can vary from $2 to $40 per square foot depending on the quality that you select. These prices allow almost anyone to afford a replacement carpet and increase the retail value of their property. Getting your carpet replaced can improve your quality of life as well, since you will be eliminating mildew, mold, pet dander, and pet hair. Maintaining it with a professional cleaning service like Progreen Carpet can extend its life and improve the comfort of you and your guests. Nothing quite beats the feeling of breathing easy in your new home without a single stain anywhere in sight.

Eduardo Dieguez is a freelance writer and film buff, frequently contributing articles on various topics of off-beat media and creature comforts.

Hail storms are some of the most dangerous and harmful weather patterns for your roof. They can wreak havoc on your roof's structure, the top layers, as well as on the various accessories, such as gutters, chimney flashings or vents. What's more, sometimes hail storms usually come together with powerful gusts of wind and harsh rains that can add up to the overall damage, making your roof completely unusable.

On the other hand, hail storms will not damage the roof right away. Instead, they constantly pound the top layers, causing dents, divots and tears in the roofing material. These damages can evolve over time, creating ample holes in the roof with dire consequences for the whole building. To avoid these awful situations, a carefully scheduled roof inspection plan must be devised, together with your professional roofing company.

How can a hail storm be a good thing for your roof?

Especially for an old roof, surviving a vicious hail storm will come with multiple damages, so special care must be given to the inspection process. Additionally, the calm after the storm is the best period to assess damages, evaluate repair costs and establish a schedule for reconstruction. While many homeowners see the aftermath of a hail storm as a disastrous moment and a financial nightmare, some owners consider it a great opportunity for a new beginning. In essence, a hail storm can be the perfect time for a complete overhaul of your old roof and a possible redesign of the whole structure. You will be able to decide, together with a roofing specialist, the most appropriate roof materials, technical solutions and various accessories that will protect your home from a future storm.

What are your alternatives when building a new roof?

Some of the most common questions coming from homeowners after a hail storm are “How can I avoid future hail storm damages to my roof?” and “What should I do?”. Obviously, these questions come as no surprise, considering the amount of destruction a hail storm can bring even to a good roofing system.

Most roofing systems in the United States are made of fiberglass and asphalt composites that are very sensitive to hail and harsh rain. When replacing a roof, it is a good idea to avoid this roofing material if possible. Although it is one of the cheapest options available, it has a short lifespan and requires much maintenance work.

When it comes to materials, your best bet is metal roofing. Available in multiple varieties, from metal shingles and sheets, to multi-layered panels that also include thermal insulation, metal roofing systems are modern, elegant, easy to install and have a long lifespan.

One of the major advantages of metal roofs, especially when compared to ceramic tile or fiberglass shingle roofs, is the fact that they seldom suffer functional damage during a hail storm. They do suffer occasional dents and other cosmetic damage, but thanks to the elasticity of the metal, perforations or tears are very rare. On the other hand, ceramic tiles may crack or shatter during vicious hail storms. The only areas of a metal roofing system prone to hail damage are near the seams, around the ridge and at the hip caps, where improper installing may cause problems.

Metal shingles, metal sheets, and metal multi-layered panels are ideal roofing solutions for any building, from single family homes and small commercial buildings, to churches, warehouses and exhibition centers or sports arenas. They can be fashioned in any shape and are available in a huge range of colors and hues. Also, metal roofing systems can blend with almost any style of architecture and can be installed in every location across the country.

The writer of this article, Flaviu Mircea, is a home improvement buff who does everything he can to keep his home absolutely perfect. The roof, however, is too much for one man to handle. As such, he highly recommends the services of ReRoof USA. You can learn more about Flaviu from Google+.

During the summer, there is an increase in repairs as air conditioners work overtime in an attempt to stay cool. Central air conditioners contain two separate components -- the condenser and the evaporator. You can usually find the condenser on the outside of your house sitting atop a concrete block. The evaporator is a coil that is mounted above the furnace in your main air conditioning unit. If either of these components is not working correctly, you'll need to call a professional for repair. However, there are still several things you can do to diagnose and repair your unit if it's not operating correctly.

Cleaning the Unit

Making sure the unit is clean can help you save money and keep your conditioner running well into the summer. Before you do any work, make sure you cut the power to the unit. If your unit has an exposed plenum, you can clean it yourself. Otherwise, if it's inside of a sealed sheet metal box, don't go anywhere near it. Start by removing the foil insulation at the front of the plenum. You may need to remove the tape holding it in place. Don't destroy the tape, because you'll need to replace it. Use a stiff brush to clean the evaporator, and then clean the tray below the unit. This tray carries condensation away from the evaporator. You can also pour 1/2 tablespoon of bleach into the weep hole to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.

Check the area around your condenser. If there are any weeds, grass or vines, cut them away so they don't obstruct airflow. Use a commercial coil cleaner to clean out the condenser. Follow the instructions on the cleaner to flush out the coil, but do not use a hose. Let the coil dry naturally. The fins on the condenser can be cleaned with a soft brush, but you'll need to remove the grille to access the fins. Be very careful, since these fins are made of aluminum and can be damaged easily. Finally, make sure the unit is level. Make adjustments to the unit until it is level to help keep it running optimally.

Avoid a Freeze Up

Air conditioners freeze up when the pipes are working overtime and become frozen. It sounds obvious, but there are certain precautions you can take to prevent this from happening. Before it gets hot, have your AC check for the proper levels of refrigerant. Low levels can cause your unit to freeze. While you're at it, have a professional check for any leaks.

Make sure the air filters in your home are changed regularly. Dirty air filters restrict air flow can can cause humidity to collect and pool around the coils. Undersized ducts are another problem. This is why you need the right size unit for your home. Getting a unit that is too large may seem like a good idea, but if it's too powerful, it can cause problems.

Don't run the air conditioner on days when the temperature drops below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. This can cause your unit to freeze up. If you want to keep the filtration going in your home, then use the fan option on your units. This will also reduce the level of humidity in your house, which in many cases is all you need to feel cool.

Charlie Teschner started MESA Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling in 1982. Charlie has a journeyman and master plumber’s license. He was raised with a strong work ethic and he now applies those values to tasks such as Longmont, CO heating repair.

One unfortunate aspect of life is that most of us have to contend with drastic changes in the external air. Temperatures sometimes get quite high and during the cold months temperatures plummet, with high humidity making the environment feel warmer or cooler than the thermometer claims. To help alleviate the problem, almost every commercial and residential building owns an AC unit. Air conditioning systems work efficiently to maintain the air within the room at comfortable levels.

What you may not know however is that heating ventilation and air conditioning systems use the fresh air from outside for providing your desired quality of air inside. This begs the question of how changes in outdoor air affect the functioning of the AC units. Here are some of the ways your AC unit is being impacted by outside conditions.

Outside Temperature

The AC unit is made of coils that pick up heat from the outside air, but have nowhere to get rid of it. Therefore, the temperature of the system increases gradually. A heat exchanger is, therefore, required to get rid of the extra heat. A high-temperature difference between the outside air and the refrigerant will affect the amount of heat transferred with the unit and the rate at which it is transferred. Even perfect systems decrease in efficiency with outside temperature rising about 2 degrees. This drop in efficiency is quite dramatic in the real world. You will notice that your air conditioner seems to be working harder as the outside temperature increases.

Poor Air Quality and Pollution

Many factors affect the quality of air we breathe. Pollen, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide are just but a few pollutants that affect us today. With all technological advancements today meant for improving the quality of our lives, it is unfortunate that air quality is not given due attention.

Diminished air quality is bad for everyone, but it can be particularly bad for the AC equipment. Particles of polluted air such as smoke and dust accumulate in the AC unit and these particles will hinder the operation of the AC unit. After some time, the efficiency of the unit is reduced. This is why it is always important to keep on top of making sure that the AC equipment is cleaned and maintained on a regular basis. Regular cleaning removes any such dust and particles that could collect with time.

Humidity in the External Air

Since one of the primary functions of the AC unit is to remove excess moisture from the air, the process can be made much more difficult when the external humidity is high. The efficiency of the AC unit is thus affected when we approach the warm weather months. A high amount of moisture in the air can also carry a larger amount of dust that settles in the unit’s fins and coils. When the humidity is high, the AC systems have to use more energy and work harder to keep the home cool. If you have an older and inefficient system, it may not be able to handle the job quite well. It may be time to consider an upgrade to a more modern solution.

Heat, humidity and air pollution can affect the AC unit. Long and irregular run times of the unit can also affect it significantly. Since your AC unit represents a significant investment, you will want to make sure that you protect it by scheduling appointments with certified technicians that can be found at www.bobheinmiller.com on a regular basis for cleaning, maintenance and inspection. You can also clean the unit yourself using a coil cleaner so as the system can be efficient in its operation. Removing debris and dirt allows the system to work more efficiently and will lead to lower utility bills.

The writer, Edrick Hypolite, is an Orlando resident who always strives to keep his home comfortable and keeps track of everything that could compromise that. If you wish to learn more about Edrick you can visit on Google+.

When you start thinking about selling your house, your thoughts will inevitably turn to the value of your home. Property value can be highly subjective, and dependant on the area you live in, the state of the property market, and of course the condition of your house itself. But if you want to give your home a few inexpensive fixes before inviting an estate agent round for a valuation, here are 5 affordable ways to increase the value of your house.

1. Revamp Key Rooms

If you are hoping to sell in the near future, you understandably don’t want to spend thousands of pounds on a new kitchen or bathroom. However as two of the most important rooms of the house, a few slight tweaks such as upgraded appliances and DIY improvements can freshen up the rooms for the viewings.

2. Make Space

Clutter can really impact the value of a property, visually reducing the amount of space available and making rooms look much smaller than they actually are. After years spent in your home, you’ll no doubt have at least one room that is full of ‘stuff’, so try to tackle this before you get it on the market, to improve your asking price and make visitors see the bigger picture.

3. Light and Airy

Even the largest and most impressive rooms of the house can look dark and enclosed if the lighting isn’t right. So expose those windows and let the light flood in, or where natural light is lacking a few lamps or high wattage bulbs can make all the difference. If the walls are looking a bit dull or dirty, a quick layer of neutral paint will brighten them back up.

4. Spruce Up the Exterior

The one photo that is guaranteed to be in the estate agent window, don’t be let down by the exterior when trying to sell your property. In the run up to putting your property on the market, focus on improving the kerb appeal of your house. Tidy up the garden and brighten it up with some flowers, clear the gutters, and give the windows and doors a lick of paint to have it looking top notch for visitors.

5. Depersonalise

Colourful walls and décor might be just right for you and your family, but don’t assume that everyone will be on the same page. First impressions count, so making your property as neutral as possible will help attract potential buyers.

You don’t need to spend a lot to make big improvements to the value of your house. And a key point to remember is that value isn’t just about the price of a property – it’s being able to sell it at that price too. So spend some time sprucing up the interior and exterior of your home before you take the next step to sell, and have a much better reception from the market when you do make the move.

This article is written by Kelly Gilmour-Grassam, a freelance copywriter from Yorkshire. You can follow her on @KellyGGrassam. This article is written with helpful information from ADM Residential.

There is nothing more romantic than sitting next to a fireplace on a colder winter day...

A fireplace can most often be found in a living room and is a favorite place for the gathering of family members during the winter. Warmth, comfort and a positive atmosphere will surely keep you there during cold winter nights.

Styles and designs

Fireplaces come in many styles and designs, and are generally made from concrete or brick. From recently, in many homes fireplaces made out of glass are being used. People no longer have to think about the safety of the, because they don't have to wait for the wood to burn before they go to bed. It's a known fact that a fireplace without supervision can be dangerous. A fireplace is not an automatic device that has a timer for turning off and on. So it is best to use a fireplace that's made out of glass.

Modern technology gives us the chance to see the fire from every angle of the room, that burns on the right place in the right time. A perfect scene. The diversity of glass fireplaces will bring a feel of comfort, in your living room, your hallways or your office. The magic of this important piece of furniture can be designed in many different shapes and colors, depending on what your interior already looks like.

If you enjoy in romantic moments and you need a spiritual consolation in a pure atmosphere during the cold winter days – it's the right choice for you.

But, before buying a glass fireplace there's something you should consider. The price of the fireplace compared to your budget. Some of the manufacturers offer a life time warrantee, and some offer a limited one. The price varies depending on the material. Aluminum is the most accessible material you can find.

Harmony in the interior

Also, think about the harmony in your interior. There are many types of fireplaces, rustic, elegant, modern or traditional. Pick the one that will be fitting to your interior. Glass fireplaces look really beautiful. But they should also look beautiful when matched with your interior.

Another thing you should consider when thinking about buying a glass fireplace is lighting. It's really important. You don't want to overlook it. Think about this. If you have really big windows, that means you will get a lot of light during certain parts of the day. Well, maybe the window is facing a side which will not get a lot of light, but it will get some for sure. So, since it's a lot of glass in your fireplace, too much light will create a lot of glare. And that, if you didn't know, can be a really bad thing. Firstly, it bothers the eyes. You'll get blinded in certain areas of the room. You certainly don't want to avoid specific places in your room because you don't want to lose your sight. If this is the case, consider using some light blocking tools like curtains or blinds.

Milan Budimkic is a creative freelance writer for industries that include but are not limited to the travel, sport, entertainment, internet marketing, and much more. When not blogging, Milan likes to travel and read a lot.

Stonework rarely needs repointing and renovating, and properties can go decades without needing any major maintenance to the exterior walls if they have been skilfully constructed. However, it’s inevitably that eventually the constant barrage of sun, wind, rain and frost can damage your stonework. And if you spot signs of disrepair, it’s important not to ignore them, or you could face more serious problems later on. If you notice any of these signs, you should consider ringing a stone specialist as soon as possible to diagnose the issue and find a remedy.

1. Cracked Walls and Foundations

It’s understandable that most people panic if a crack appears in the wall of the house, but not all of these faults are so sinister. Especially for new builds, this can occur naturally over the first few years as the property settles into its foundations. However a second opinion is wise, as large cracks and particularly ones caused by swelling, shrinking or subsistence can have serious implications.

2. Damp Walls

Natural stone is porous, but problems of damp shouldn’t occur if stonework has been professional installed and sealed. If walls are damp, there could be a variety of causes for this. Failing to properly seal walls leaves the walls open to absorb moisture, which can become trapped between the pointing. However pointing itself can also cause these issues, as hard cement prevents the natural release of moisture, instead leaving it vulnerable to decay. Other causes of damp include drainpipes running onto walls and flooding.

3. Crumbling stone

The issue of trapped moisture where stonework is unable to breathe can cause more serious problems to the overall condition of your walls, such as crumbling. If your window surrounds or stonework are in such as poor state that it is crumbling, it is far better to get a stone mason specialist to completely repair the damaged area than to patch it up. Simply trying to treat the symptoms of the problem rather than the root cause itself is unwise; you will probably only delay and even increase expenses when the issue has worsened in a few years.

4. Vandalism

A sad but very common cause of stonework problems can be vandalism, as graffiti or intentional damage to walls, statues and natural stone can leave it looking tired and an eyesore. Addressing these issues yourself can be a challenge, as each type of natural stone is best suited to different remedies. However a professional will be able to prescribe the right treatment to renovate your stonework, leaving it looking as good as new.

Maintaining the condition of exterior walls, patios and cladding is crucial for the kerb appeal and value of any property. It can also ensure that problems are addressed quickly, by someone with the necessary skills and expertise do the job properly. So please don't bury your hand in the sand, don’t ignore any of these signs if they do arise – call an expert to get peace of mind and the appropriate solution.

Article written by Kelly Gilmour-Grassam, a Yorkshire lass who enjoys the great outdoors. She is a freelance copywriter who you can follow on Twitter @KellyGGrassam. This article was written with useful information from Henley Stone.

One of the most important parts of the refinancing process is the home appraisal. This is because the appraisal will set the stage as far as how much you will end up paying on your refinance. The appraisal is the official estimate of what your home is worth, so the object of the game is to get as high of a number as possible.

Researching

Getting as good an appraisal as possible begins with research, as this will help you to make an informed decision about the appraiser you choose. And this can be made much easier by doing some of your own research into what homes in your area have recently sold for. Ensure the homes you are comparing are similar to your own.

Once you've noted some homes, you can create a file. The file should include categories like the amenities each home is close to, the square footage of each home, the year each home was built, and the sale price of the home.

You will also likely come across homes in your area that were similar to your own, but ended up selling for less that you expect your home to sell for. However, this may have been due to unique circumstances, such as the owners being forced into foreclosure.

The benefits of doing your own research include providing an out-of-town appraiser with an accurate look at your local housing market.

Getting Clean

The next step is to take a good look around your home for anything that may need to be repaired. This could include items like stairs, windows or anything that could present a hazard. Chances are that your appraiser will notice these things as they do their walk through. And not attending to them before your appraisal can cost you big points on the final estimate of your home's value.

Along with ensuring any repairs that need to be made are completed is making sure your home is ready for an appraisal. This means making your home as presentable as possible. Although you may not need to put in as much effort as you might for an open house viewing, doing the dishes, putting any laundry away and ensuring the garbage has been taken out can all contribute to a positive impression.

Lay Of the Land

Did you know that you can increase your home's value by up to 15%, just by hiring a professional to update your landscaping? According to the American Society of Landscape Architects, that is a fact. Attractive landscaping adds curb appeal , which appraisers consider when figuring out how much your home is worth. Other affordable ways to improve the appearance of your home from the outside don't involve professional intervention. Even a new mailbox, or the addition of window boxes and porch planters can pretty up your property.

Being There

Experts recommend that when getting an appraisal done, the homeowner should always be present. There is no law which states that you can't be there when the appraisal is being conducted. As well, you can definitely inform the appraiser of any features in or around your home which may be unique, but which the appraiser may not see right away, such as special storage or larger-than-usual closet space.

However, experts warn against saying too much to an appraiser. Going for too much control may appear as though you're trying to do their job for them. And so if you offer your appraiser your file of researched area homes and are refused, try not to take it personally.

Aging Gracefully

Another aspect of your appraiser's job is to determine how well your home is aging. If you have taken good care of your home and made updates, your home value may be end up being higher than similar properties in your area. An example of a home that is not aging well could be one that was built only a decade ago, but is already showing signs of wear and tear via drywall cracks or a sinking foundation. Older homes are not immune, and can show their stress with features and details that are out of date, and therefore not major selling points.

Guest author Tony Donovan writes on mortgage-related topics. He recommends The Refi Guide, a site dedicated to helping consumers navigate the refinancing process.

Stone masonry is a historic profession, and one that for many evokes images of medieval men chiselling away at rocks to form little bricks hundreds of years ago. With the evolution of modern manufacturing methods and availability of products such as concrete and brick, you might imagine that stone masons are few and far between in the industry nowadays. However this traditional craft is actually as important as ever for building and construction, and has a range of roles from stone fitting to graffiti removal and stone cleaning.

Stone Masons for New Build

Just because many houses are built from bricks these days, doesn’t mean that stone masons are any less popular for the construction of homes. A bespoke option that offers superior quality to any property development, stone masons use a combination of modern and traditional building methods to create impressive residential and commercial properties. This could be using natural stone, or newer materials and methods such as glass reinforced concrete, which can be manufactured to mimic any stone and shaped with a seamless finish.

For a more affordable alternative to using natural stone for the entire property, stone cladding is becoming an increasingly well-known way to increase the kerb appeal of a home or building. Stonemasons can fit quality natural stone cladding to a property, creating a façade that boasts timeless appeal. As a result, cladding can significantly increase the value of a building, without costing the earth.

Restoration and Renovation

Stone masons also have an important role in maintaining period properties and stately homes that are in need of improvement, whether this be minor repairs or drastic renovation. By choosing an experienced stonemason, renovations, extensions and restoration can be done with seamless results that will be in-keeping with the original period of the property. From porticos to panelling and cornices, a specialist stonemason can really improve the value of these buildings and give them a new lease of life, whether your property is an old farmhouse or a Georgian townhouse.

Stone Cleaning and Graffiti Removal

Some stonework has been exposed to the elements for hundreds of years, and over time this can leave it stained, dull and lifeless. Stone cleaning is a professional service that removes dirt and restores natural stone to its original appearance, making a huge difference to the aesthetic value of a property. However vandalism also poses a problem to many homeowners and business owners, especially in urban areas. That’s why many stone masons also offer graffiti removal services, to remove street art and restore stonework to its former appearance.

From new builds to period properties, and a huge variety of commercial needs, stone masonry offers a professional range of services that makes it a relevant and reliable choice for property developments, home improvements, and restoration. Preserving the timeless quality of stonework for the modern age, stonemasons offer a premium finish for any building project that makes their craft a valuable one.

Now did you know all that?

Article written by Kelly Gimour-Grassam, a freelance copywriter from Yorkshire who loves the great outdoors and eating out. This article is written with useful information from Henley Stone. You can follow Kelly on Twitter @KellyGGrassam.

Chandeliers used to be found only in the living rooms of spacious mansions and grand hotel lobbies and function rooms. Nowadays, though, they can be installed in any home, even yours. Indeed, you can choose from many different types and styles of chandeliers and if you cannot find what you're looking for or don't want to go through the process of having to browse through various catalogues, you can always have a custom chandelier made, especially if you have an innovative modern chandelier in mind.

Indeed, custom chandeliers are offered by many lighting companies. If you opt for these, though, you will be asked a lot of questions to ensure that the finished product meets your exact specifications, so you should have a clear idea of what you need.

For one, you should know the right chandelier size that you require. Keep in mind that the bottom of the chandelier should be at least seven inches from the floor so you have to measure the height of the room from the floor to the ceiling. As for the diameter, you can simply give the area of the room to the company so they can calculate it for you. Remember that a chandelier easily draws attention so if it is too large or too small, it is a mistake people will easily notice, making the entire room less attractive.

Contemporary Chandelier Light

Once the size has been decided, it is time to describe the style of the custom chandelier that you want, which is the more difficult part. First, you have to find out if you want a traditional chandelier, a transitional one or a modern chandelier. A traditional chandelier is usually one with tiers and has a frame usually made of either antique brass or polished brass with the bulbs attached to the frame. With modern chandeliers, however, the design is more varied and minimalist. Aside from these three design types, you can also choose from other more specific chandelier designs, such as Art Deco, Rustic, Asian, Renaissance or even Tropical. There are also dozens of finishes available.

In order to choose the right style, you have to consider the style of the rest of the room, so that the chandelier will complement it rather than go against it. If you can't pinpoint the style of the room, you can just choose one element of it that stands out and use that as the basis for creating the design of your custom chandelier. If you are good at drawing, you can sketch the design of the chandelier you want and then show this to the lighting company to serve as a guide.

In some cases, you can also specify what bulbs you want the custom chandeliers to use so you should take advantage of this option. The bulbs can be exposed or enclosed in spheres or shades and they can be fluorescent, incandescent, halogen, xenon and even LED. They can also be colored or have dimming capacities to create a dramatic effect.

By keeping all these in mind, you can truly have a chandelier that is custom made to meet your needs. It will be one of a kind, as well, so when people ask you where you got it, which they surely will, you can just smile and say that there is no other like it.

Sarah Brighley is a full-time mom and an avid blogger of home improvement ideas. She loves to share the best tips in interior design and furniture.

Property development is a popular and ever expanding field, with more and more people giving up their day jobs to follow their dreams, with an opportunity chance to watch your hard work turn into reality and ultimately make serious profits. However balancing cost, quality and a reasonable time frame is important if you are going to avoid your dream turning into a nightmare, so following these simple rules will ensure that your project comes off without a hitch.

Build the Vision

Before you buy any land or property, or even embark upon the planning stages, every property developer should have a clear idea of their goals and why exactly they are choosing a specific plot. Are you renovating a period property to its former glory, or building a modern home in a kid-friendly area that’s perfect for families? Remember that at the end of the day you need to be able to sell your house, so avoid indulging in personal taste and have a specific market for your development.

Plan and Budget

It seems like an obvious thing to say, but you would be amazed at how many people underestimate costs and time frames in their enthusiasm to get started on a project. One of the most important things that can make or break a property developer is planning, and failure to take account for every expense, delay and potential problem might give you a nasty shock later down the line.

Budget your project and leave a contingency fund in case of emergency, and that way you will already have factored in any unexpected costs in case they do arise. Make sure that you have all of the necessary planning permission, and where possible get quotes before you start for jobs such as stonework, scaffolding, architecture and electricity work. Have a clear vision of what you want, and know exactly what needs to happen to achieve it.

Outsource to Reputable Traders

They say that if you want something doing, do it yourself. But when it comes to property development, outsourcing is essential. However it’s also the area where you’re most likely to slip up if you don’t do your research. Whether you’re looking for a stone mason, electrician, plumber or other professional, make sure that you choose a reputable company with the necessary accreditation, a sound portfolio, and a few good references before you go ahead. Getting the best quote and the most convenient schedule might seem like a priority, but if the end result isn’t up to scratch then it could compromise your whole development.

The success of a property developer doesn’t just depend solely on hard work and determination. Of course, planning, budgeting and a vision is key, but you also need to remember that you are reliant on the market wanting to buy your house. And the construction workers who will make it happen. However if you keep your mind on the end goal and an eye on quality workmanship, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t succeed.

Article written by freelance copywriter Kelly Gilmour-Grassam, who loves fine food in interesting places. Follow her on Twitter at @KellyGGrassam. This article was written with helpful information from Henley Stone.

As winter approaches each year, there are a lot of things to look forward to. The holiday season brings fun with family and friends, and you'll have the chance to make new memories with the people you love the most. Whether you love skiing and snowboarding or you can't wait to have a snowball fight with your kids, you don't have to wait much longer since winter is coming!

However, winter also comes with a specific set of challenges. Snow and cold weather bring plenty of opportunities for fun, but you also need to make sure that the plumbing in your home is ready before the cold weather rolls in. Frozen pipes can burst and cause a tremendous amount of damage, but you can reduce your risk by taking the following precautions.

Head Outdoors

You can start the process of winterizing your plumbing by heading outside. Disconnect all of your exterior hoses, and drain them before you put them away for the winter. If you leave your pipes attached during the winter, they can freeze with water still inside them. This could cause your exterior faucets and pipes to burst. It's best to store your hoses inside to keep them from freezing. If possible, shut off your outside faucets completely for the winter so they won't be accidentally turned on.

Use a piece of cardboard or some extra insulation to protect your exterior water meter from freezing. Finally, make sure that your sprinkler system is turned off, and drain any water that is currently in the system.

Seal Cracks

Next, you can protect your pipes by carefully checking for any cracks or small openings near your doors and windows. Cold wind can enter your house through these areas, and this increases your risk of exposed pipes freezing and causing big problems. Most small issues can be corrected with a little caulk or insulation.

Add Insulation

Adding insulation is one of the most important things you can do to protect your plumbing system this winter. You need to be especially careful to insulate pipes that are located in areas that are not heated, such as your attic or basement. Pick up pipe insulation material from almost any hardware or home improvement store, and simply use this insulation to wrap your pipes.

In addition, it's important to insulate any of your outside walls that contain water pipes. You can also keep your home at a more steady and comfortable temperature by closing off any crawl spaces or other open areas.

Stay Prepared

Even after you've prepared your plumbing for winter, it's important to stay prepared for cold weather. Don't turn off your heat when temperatures are expected to be below freezing, even if you are going out of town. If you do need to travel, shut off the main water valve to reduce the risk of a plumbing emergency.

If your pipes have frozen in the past, you can keep the water moving by allowing a small amount of cold water to continue to flow through the pipes when the weather is extremely chilly.

By taking a small amount of time to prepare now, you can avoid many of the most common plumbing problems this winter. This means you'll get to spend more time enjoying the season and less time dealing with plumbing issues!

Charlie Teschner started MESA Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling in 1982. Charlie has a journeyman and master plumber’s license. He was raised with a strong work ethic and he now applies those values to tasks such as Boulder plumbing repair.

Your central air units are like any complex mechanical system. If you have the basic knowledge of how to see their symptoms, you can save yourself big dollars on major repairs by proactively maintaining your system. Monitor the performance of your system and you will know when it is time to call a specialist such as the professionals at Facemyer Air Conditioning and Heating.

Cycles

Air conditioning systems work to remove humidity from the air and thereby bringing the temperature down. When you set the thermostat to a particular temperature setting, it will set a cyclic rate for your system to cycle on and off for a specific duration of time. The longer the cycle, the more humidity is being removed from the air. In converse, the shorter the cycle, the less humidity removed from the air and the higher the temperature remains. Remember, temperature is a measure of how rapidly particles move about in the air. By removing particles, i.e. water, from the air, the air feels cooler. A tell-tale symptom that there is something wrong within the ac unit is a noticeably short or long cycle. If the AC system has to work too hard to remove humidity, there is a reason for it. The first step for you as a homeowner is to check your air filter and make sure it is not in need of replacement. If the filter is fine and there doesn’t appear to be excess water laying in the filter area of the central air unit, it is time to call your AC specialist. If there does appear to be water laying in the filter area, you will need to check the drain and make sure it is not clogged, which may also require a repair specialist if you are not comfortable with that level of maintenance.

If your unit cycles for extended periods of time and struggles to get the temperature down, which is one of the most common problems, it is vital to get your technician on site. Aside from filter or drain problems, longer cycle rates can be an indicator of a more severe problem. If your unit is getting low on refrigerant, but is not low enough to kick on the failsafe sensors, it will cause your system to cycle longer. Think of it like your car. If your car is low on oil it will still run, but if it loses too much oil it can cause the motor to blow. On newer cars, there are sensors that will shut your car down in the event of a major loss of oil pressure. On older cars, you hear a loud noise and the motor has just experienced major failure. Your ac systems work in the exact same way. If your unit is older or has a pressure sensor that is malfunctioning in the worst way possible, you can cause severe damage that will multiply the costs of repairs. Not only will you have to purchase more parts, but you are more than likely going to have to wait days for them to come in and pay much more in labor costs. Being proactive isn’t easy, but it is certainly cost effective. When the ac coolant (Freon) gets low from a hole in the suction side of the system, it will pull in outside air or dirt and contaminate the entire system. Replacing a compressor, the condenser, and vacuuming the lines are worst case scenario in terms of cost of repair for the outside unit.

Noise

Sometimes the need to call a technician to your home is obvious. There is nothing like a loud shrieking noise to say, “hey, I need some attention over here!” Fortunately, noises in ac units are not typically expensive noises if you address them quickly. To begin your assessment of the situation, follow your ears! If the noise is outside of your home, there are two likely culprits. Best case scenario, it is the fan on top of the unit with some sort of debris that is rattling. If you hear a steady hum and the fan is not moving, call your ac technician. There are several electrical issues that can cause engagement failure of the fan. On the other hand, if you hear a noise in the outside unit and the noise is not coming from the fan, the only other moving part is the compressor. Hopefully, you have a clutch assembly that can be replaced without replacing the compressor. There is a possibility that they must be replaced as a unit and it is also possible there is a problem with the compressor itself. In either case, if you hear a noise in the outside unit and it is not the fan, call your tech immediately.

If you hear a noise in your central air unit, most often located in the garage or a closet, there is a fan assembly that pushes the air through the duct system in the house. This noise may travel through the house and be audible in the vent system in every room. Do not be fooled into buying a completely new central air system over a noisy fan. Deal with a reputable air conditioning repair company that will not try to take your money at every turn. The fan assemblies can be replaced in most cases without replacing the entire unit, especially on newer units. Mobile homes and specialty systems normally make up the exceptions to this rule. Noise problems are typically one of the best problems to have to deal with. They are easy to troubleshoot and can normally be repaired quickly.

Miscellaneous

There are a number of indicators showing you that it is time to call your ac specialist. If your thermostat has lost power or does not reflect the actual temperature of the room, it needs attention. If you smell electricity or other odd smells in the ventilation systems it may be a good clue, a precursor to a larger problem to come. It is a good idea to inspect your home annually. Make a checklist of items that you can personally inspect and make sure they are in good working order. For a system like central air cooling and heating, doing a general walk through every quarter is not a bad idea or doing a spot check when you change the filters monthly. You can visually inspect for any type of damage that may result from animals, kids, weather, or general wear and tear. Keep your eyes and ears open for anything that looks like it is in need of further inspection.

As the ancient proverb goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” In trying economic times, it is even more critical to squash little problems before they become larger ones. The AC system in your home is not like a broken window or garage door. It is going to effect the immediate needs and attitudes of the people you live with and life can get very miserable. While it is not always feasible to fix and know everything yourself, it is always prudent to plan for problems. Give yourself the opportunity to get ahead of the game by being proactively engaged in the maintenance of your home and especially your ac system. Establish a relationship with a local ac repair company that you can trust. The smallest amount of effort will result in the largest payoff. When you can trust your repair technician and learn how to listen to your system when it signals problems to you, the whole experience will be less traumatic for your wallet and your standard of living.

Ray Donato, the author, does everything he can to keep his home safe and comfortable, but understands there are things he can't always do himself, and so tries to remember when he needs to call in an expert. If you wish to learn more about Ray you can visit Google+.

Owning a home is one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences, and highlights the degree of a person’s stability in the community. The owning of a home, while extremely satisfying, requires a vested and acute devotion of attention by the home owner, especially into the air conditioning unit. There are several things that both a new and seasoned home owner can do to keep their units in excellent operating condition.

Know Your System

The competitive fair market economy of the United States has created an environment that fosters technological advancement that is unmatched in the world. The product market is always advancing, bringing new and improved products that achieve higher standards of performance regularly. The home owner needs to make a purposeful effort to identify their specific system in in order to take care of it properly.

The first step to care and maintenance of your air conditioning system is to locate or obtain the manuals for your system. There should be at least two, depending on the type of system you have. If your central air has a design that incorporates the entire system into one unit in one location, it is possible to have one book that covers all of the maintenance required. A lot of homes will have a unit outside of the home that removes the moisture from the air and a system located inside the home that will force the air throughout the home through the duct system. It is possible and rather likely that you will be provided with two manuals in this type of setup. There is no substitute for first hand source information created by the manufacturer that identifies the required regular maintenance for your system. Read the manual and look for a checklist of monthly, quarterly, and annual maintenance checks that need to be executed for the preservation of your system’s operational health. Get familiar with the components of your AC system, especially the air filter system, the external unit, and the internal central air unit. It is not necessary to have a technical troubleshooting education to do the regular maintenance.

The Basics

Once you know where the basic components of your system are, the next step is to identify the maintenance operations you can perform yourself. Recognize immediately that safety is going to have to take a high priority concern. Without professional licensing and training, you need to be careful to follow the instructions in your manual. The first step is to always turn off any electric at the power panel of the unit and make sure it is powered down. Once the unit is powered down, depending on the maintenance you are performing, you are able to proceed carefully.

The most basic task in routine maintenance is to change your air filter. A clogged air filter will drastically impact your system’s performance. There are several types of filters on the market. Some filters are disposable and must be replaced, while other ones can be cleaned and reinstalled. If you have a serviceable air filter, then you must make sure it is completely dry before you put it back in place.

Another routine maintenance check commonly included in a biannual inspection is to make sure the AC drain line is clear of debris and flow is unrestricted. When water builds up in the drain system, moisture circulates through the blower assembly and renders your AC system ineffective. Moisture in the system will also cause component damage in the form of rust and can cause more expensive repairs. While you have the power off and the filter out, it is a good time to clean any dirt or pooled water in the drain pan.

For the more confident homeowner, there are a few other steps to take for regular maintenance. Again, with the power off, inspect your coolant unit. There is an item that looks similar to a radiator in your car, called a condenser. You may have to remove a cover to get to it, but it should be inspected for debris. As water and dirt circulate in the external unit due to its own operation or inclement weather conditions, the fins of the unit may become clogged and restrict air flow. The fins are very delicate and require the utmost care when performing any level of maintenance. There is a tool called a comb that literally looks something like a comb that can be used to protect the fins while you comb out the dirt. It is a good idea to use some sort of softening agent or spray to try and loosen the dirt beforehand and perhaps eliminate the need to use a comb altogether. The risks of damage are severely mitigated when you clean your unit regularly because it prevents significant build up that will require more direct and intense cleaning methods.

One of the last remaining maintenance checks that a homeowner can execute is to visually inspect the duct work in the attic or under the floor of the home, depending on how your home was constructed. If there is a disconnected duct or breach in the airway, the conditioned air will be contaminated and reduce the effectiveness of the AC production. Some rooms may be cooler than others and there may be smells or dirt inside of those rooms coming through the vents.

Third Party Maintenance

During routine maintenance, the biggest risk to the homeowner is possible damage to the fins of the condenser. It is a good idea to delegate that responsibility to a HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) technician who is familiar with the tools and knows the delicate nature of the condenser to not damage it during maintenance. Air conditioning is complex and poses the risk of bodily harm and property damage to the uninitiated. There are several issues that require the paid services of a professional, such as those at bobheinmiller.com, to keep your unit in tip top shape.

Only licensed and certified professionals can purchase Freon in any real quantity. AC units require exact amounts of refrigerant that must be installed with the proper tools and techniques. There is usually no dipstick to check the level of the refrigerant and it must be checked with gauges for proper readings. Keeping the unit at the correct levels of refrigerant will prevent more severe issues to the pump and keep the air cooling operation efficient.

Air conditioning repair companies will normally offer an annual inspection to look over the entire system for nominal charges. Establishing a relationship with AC companies and performing proactive checks will help prevent larger issues and keep major repair costs down. The homeowner that fixes a problem only with a major repair usually discovers they have an even bigger list of things that need repairs, unlike the homeowner that performs regular maintenance. Keeping your unit in top shape does not have to be an intimidating process, it can be one more part of homeownership that makes the house into your home.

The author, Ray Donato, is a home improvement guru who is constantly working around the house in his spare time to make sure everything runs perfectly. If you're interested in learning more about Ray you can visit Google+.

In modern design interior lighting is a very important element...

The lighting bodies – lamps and chandeliers – are a very decorative element that can contribute to the general feel and esthetics of the space. This element is often in the focus of designers and it attracts a lot of attention from experts, and the general public.

Some famous lamps that are the works of designers can be called true little, sometimes big, pieces of art.

But, another factor is very important when it comes to lighting and interior design, and that is the atmosphere that can be achieved by using different shapes, types and intensities of light. All these factors add to the atmosphere of the room, but they change our perception of space size and shape.

The way lighting is set and the type of the chosen light are very important factors that can, combined with the colors in the space, the size of the space and the amount of natural light, influence the atmosphere immensely.

Built in lighting

One of the favored ways of lighting spaces in the past few years has been built in lighting, because of the effects on the space and the big possibilities of combining colors and shapes, and being flexible in the space. Built in lighting can mostly be seen on ceilings and walls, but a very impressive effect can be created by placing it on the floor. In this way built in lighting becomes an element of the floors and next to lighting the space can have a decorative role.

A great to have combination lighting in your space is to let more natural light in. Have big windows, it will pay off. But, don't just have naked windows, a rookie mistake that can cost you a lot of beauty. Give yourself the ability to control the amount of light in your room. How do you do that but with blinds. Blinds give you the possibility to adjust how much light you want in your space. Combined with great artificial lighting, it will give your space the perfect ratio and great beauty.

Color and shape

Additional benefits when putting floor lighting is the fact that this kind of lighting can be white but also in another not flashy color, depending on which space it is used in and what effect you want to achieve. No matter what color and shape you choose, if you adapt this kind of lighting a bit to suit your needs, the results will be rewarding.

Not depending on shape, the color of floor lighting can vary a lot, from non intrusive white tones to strong colors. Also, there are certain lights that change color which can give a space a special character. One is certain, in whatever way it is placed, floor lighting brings luxury and glamour but also limitless possibilities for playing in a space that can give amazing results.

Elements of floor lighting placed together in the right way can turn a common interior or exterior into a flawless combination of style and functionality.

Milan Budimkic is a creative freelance writer for industries that include but are not limited to the travel, sport, entertainment, internet marketing, and much more. When not blogging, Milan likes to travel and read a lot.