tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-92129807279897628192024-03-06T01:04:26.291-08:00American Housesarchitecture design dwell homes pictures and video clipsHéctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.comBlogger170125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-64390605066596328392010-09-23T09:42:00.000-07:002010-09-23T10:07:57.618-07:00Three Helpful Tips for Renting Out Your Home(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - Home ownership has always been a part of the American dream, but that may be changing. Uncertainty in the housing market has led many would-be buyers to believe that renting's the better option.<br /><br />According to a May 2010 online survey commissioned by the National Apartment Association, 76 percent of consumers think that renting is preferable to owning a home in today's market.<br />Likewise, some homeowners believe it's better to rent out their home than to sell it for less than its worth, if they can sell it all. Those considering renting out their property shouldn't make a hasty decision. Neglecting to weigh the costs and potential risks could put first-time landlords in a poor situation. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFUkAEb4NzWH31xnsZjmC9h0RED5U3EDcP-4d827kqPBNkN1L5oDdk_O7EzY5VUB9CVG8JkO1X3cOvvUV_Q2f5QwNXTpOusteOOnuSCZA3rqtoh4JePmfDFMfl1UMx3UVEzvqW5ctHIbaU/s1600/house-for-rent.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 399px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFUkAEb4NzWH31xnsZjmC9h0RED5U3EDcP-4d827kqPBNkN1L5oDdk_O7EzY5VUB9CVG8JkO1X3cOvvUV_Q2f5QwNXTpOusteOOnuSCZA3rqtoh4JePmfDFMfl1UMx3UVEzvqW5ctHIbaU/s400/house-for-rent.jpg" border="0" alt="House for rent"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5520156738252114514" /></a><br />Moco, Inc., a company that provides screening services to property owners, managers and employers throughout the United States, offers the following tips:<br />* Look at the numbers. Renting might not be the best option. If you're going to lose money each month, it might make more sense to sell, even if you won't get your asking price. Consider all potential costs, including property taxes, income taxes on your tenants' rent, maintenance, and the normal wear and tear your property will experience. Remember that you won't be able to pocket all of the rent money; you will have to put a portion of it back into the property.<br />* Find quality tenants. Nightmare tenants can be, well, a nightmare. <br /><br />Prepare for a careful screening process. Many private landlords can't access the quality screening products available to larger businesses without going through a lengthy certification process. However, you can avoid time and expense by asking your applicants to visit MyScreeningReport.com. The report includes a consumer credit report, SSN verification, comprehensive criminal search, eviction search, national sex offender registry search and an OFAC (federal terrorism database) search -- everything you need to determine whether a potential tenant meets your standards.<br /><br />* Use an all-encompassing lease. Whether you use a template or hire an attorney to write your lease, make sure that the lease clearly states your expectations. The lease should state who is responsible for what, when you expect rent to be paid and what penalties you will impose if it is late.<br /><br />For more information, visit <a href="http://www.MyScreeningReport.com">www.MyScreeningReport.com</a>Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-18652970880513109482010-09-16T15:16:00.000-07:002010-09-16T15:42:04.545-07:00Adhesives Offer Advantages to DIYers(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - What's the most basic tool every DIYer has on hand? Why, the hammer, which has been with us since pre-history. But as the human race have evolved, so has its tools; for many projects, a caulking gun and adhesive are easier and more effective than a hammer and nail.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVgEF12so1LmJzUt8y6BvAwPswsaRj8yeNIX6gP164BTxMcx4ls9XJ9PX8t68BKxpH_t_5V6iN5Zp_sqFQrfJLvA5wyaB8EwJ0K4abCndE1BYudHaH1GbEcPQYfjz4S14866ab_rEPKuLT/s1600/Adhesive-uses.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVgEF12so1LmJzUt8y6BvAwPswsaRj8yeNIX6gP164BTxMcx4ls9XJ9PX8t68BKxpH_t_5V6iN5Zp_sqFQrfJLvA5wyaB8EwJ0K4abCndE1BYudHaH1GbEcPQYfjz4S14866ab_rEPKuLT/s400/Adhesive-uses.jpg" border="0" alt="Adhesives"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517645207854063794" /></a><br />When you use mechanical fasteners, such as nails or screws, you concentrate the load on individual points. For example, if you hang up a picture, a single nail has to support the frame's entire weight. If you used an adhesive to glue the picture to the wall, the weight would be distributed across the entire surface.<br /><br />While gluing frames to walls isn't practical, this general principle applies to all sorts of projects. For example, if you're repairing deck steps, using adhesives in addition to mechanical fasteners can result in a stronger, more durable repair.<br /><br />Deck steps become loose as hot and cold weather cause wood to expand and contract, creating strain on mechanical fasteners. By applying straight beads of adhesive before putting the step back in place and replacing the fasteners, you'll distribute strain more evenly. The steps won't loosen when the wood changes shape, because the adhesive secures the boards.<br />Adhesives also offer more flexibility than mechanical fasteners. "Once something is screwed, nailed or stapled in place, it is very difficult to re-adjust its position," says Mike Goldstein, senior brand manager with Liquid Nails Brand Adhesives (www.liquidnails.com). "With an adhesive, there is some amount of open time, approximately 10 minutes, allowing you to reposition the substrate immediately following installation."<br /><br />Liquid Nails Brand formulates products for specific projects. For example, its Interior Projects Adhesive will adhere drywall, molding, paneling, foamback tub surrounds, and ceramic tile repair, while its Heavy Duty Adhesive is recommended for countertops, cabinets, brick veneer and plywood.<br /><br />For more information, visit <a href="http://www.liquidnails.com">www.liquidnails.com</a>Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-49113055889340155982010-09-07T10:52:00.000-07:002010-09-07T11:01:03.298-07:00Steam Cleaners Turn Up the Heat Against Dirt, Grime and Germs(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - In the late 18th and 19th centuries, steam powered factories, boats and locomotives. Now, steam power can be harnessed at home -- to thoroughly clean every room.<br />Americans aren't used to the idea of steam cleaning, but Europeans have been steam cleaning their homes for years. Steam-cleaners work by releasing hot steam vapor into the pores of surfaces, where it breaks up dirt and stains. While a vacuum cleaner removes surface dirt, a steam cleaner removes deeply embedded dirt without using harsh or potentially harmful chemicals.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3a7GTr0HbXPwwOdZhKK9iufywjvr5CrKBy-xJROpJfDAtz97wL1Mqi8TB8TwJGExH1CRS_Ggd8pdZAisd-SRRGO_Xg9WEG8oLThu4Mys1xPMwWU5rq02AOiezObOKg1e8Tjun29un9OF-/s1600/steam-cleaner.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 264px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3a7GTr0HbXPwwOdZhKK9iufywjvr5CrKBy-xJROpJfDAtz97wL1Mqi8TB8TwJGExH1CRS_Ggd8pdZAisd-SRRGO_Xg9WEG8oLThu4Mys1xPMwWU5rq02AOiezObOKg1e8Tjun29un9OF-/s400/steam-cleaner.jpg" border="0" alt="Steam cleaner"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514233064123650402" /></a><br />Steam cleaners clean most surfaces more effectively than a spray bottle and towel. They also disinfect areas better than commercial wipes or sprays. Steam cleaners produce very hot water vapor -- one portable cleaner, Reliable's EnviroMate Pronto, releases steam at 245 degrees Fahrenheit -- which kills bacteria, mold spores and other microorganisms. Steam cleaners are also effective against dust mites, making them an ideal appliance for those with indoor allergies.<br /><br />Homeowners worried about the environmental or health effects of chemical stain removers and disinfectants will find peace-of-mind with steam cleaning. Steam cleaners use nothing but water to clean, deodorize and disinfect. Most steam cleaners use less than a gallon of water per hour. Low-moisture vapor leaves surfaces nearly dry -- a carpet takes around 15 minutes to dry after steam cleaning -- so homeowners don't need to worry about damp areas encouraging mold growth.<br />Steam cleaners are especially effective in killing dust mites and bed bugs, removing pet stains and odors, cleaning grout, removing wallpaper and detailing cars. They can remove grease from kitchen counters, disinfect stuffed animals, clean grill racks and golf clubs, deodorize litter boxes and shine jewelry with equal effectiveness. <br /><br />Powerful steam cleaners, like Reliable's EnviroMate Tandem Steam/Vacuum Cleaner, can take on the toughest messes through steam cleaning, extracting steam residue and vacuuming. The cleaner comes with a 24-piece accessory kit, which allows the machine to steam and vacuum a variety of surfaces, including carpets and furniture.<br />For more information, visit <a href="http://www.reliablecorporation.com">www.reliablecorporation.com</a>Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-37802603064817159442010-05-25T10:10:00.000-07:002010-05-25T10:14:26.760-07:00Shopping for a New Home?Check Out the Kitchen(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - Buying a home is the largest investment most people will ever make, so it's no surprise that such a big decision may seem daunting. There are, however, some simple guidelines that can help you find a home that you will be happy with for a very long time.<br />
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A recent study conducted by Merillat, a leading manufacturer of cabinetry, examined what consumers think about when they're purchasing a home. The study found that the kitchen sways more minds than any other room, followed by the great room and the master bedroom third.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlIcy8I6mn0Y2XyDizdmd6kmG0iVLtm43g7rqXkz31bCU2jewO0LUuvpUKq383y8teuHq60qT8iZC2Ulh6O-y1Qa0gdL6m_PFRcvjqm2p_RaoKZs4A9ukXf1vvvu8YG9eQxoDYklwyDPeq/s1600/kitchen-new-house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlIcy8I6mn0Y2XyDizdmd6kmG0iVLtm43g7rqXkz31bCU2jewO0LUuvpUKq383y8teuHq60qT8iZC2Ulh6O-y1Qa0gdL6m_PFRcvjqm2p_RaoKZs4A9ukXf1vvvu8YG9eQxoDYklwyDPeq/s320/kitchen-new-house.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
"The kitchen is the gathering place for special occasions, family functions and day-to-day activities, which is why it is so important for prospective buyers to ensure their new kitchen will meet the needs of their family from a design and functionality prospective," said Paul Radoy, manager of design services for Merillat.<br />
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Try creating a checklist to help you decide whether a kitchen is right for you. Ask yourself these questions:<br />
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1. Do I like the layout of the kitchen? Consider the kitchen from an overall perspective, and keep all the items that will require storage in mind.<br />
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2. Does the kitchen look comfortable? Do I feel good when I'm in it? You should feel at home right away.<br />
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3. Does the kitchen help facilitate frequent casual interactions with family and friends? Consider the views into the surrounding rooms, like the living and dining areas. Can you easily associate with family and friends?<br />
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4. Is the cabinetry durable and well-built? Is the finish on the cabinetry smooth and consistent? Investigate the cabinet interiors to determine whether they're covered with a durable water- and stain-resistant material or a lower-quality product. Make sure that the color of the interior complements the exterior.<br />
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5. Does the kitchen have visual impact or a good focal point like an island, cooking grotto or other unique feature? Islands are a useful feature that many homeowners desire. When examining an island, identify the tasks or storage functions it serves to decide whether it will meet your needs.)<br />
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6. Does the kitchen have adequate storage space and built-in features to accommodate my possessions? Merillat's study found that, after remodeling a kitchen, many homeowners find that they didn't include enough storage features. Make sure you don't overlook features, like drawer organizers, pull-out trays and lazy Susans.<br />
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To more learn about kitchen design and storage features visit <a href="http://www.merillat.com/">www.Merillat.com</a>Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-91285312184756309372010-05-18T10:29:00.000-07:002010-05-18T10:39:38.968-07:00Is It Time to Upgrade Your Home's Security?(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - As Americans work in their yards and start DIY home projects, it might be appropriate for them to think about improving outdoor security.<br /><br />According to the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. households experienced about 16.3 million property crimes, including burglary and robbery, in 2008. Many people feel that a home security system automatically makes their home safe, but outdated technologies may leave a home vulnerable.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5XXNzr53JIw_fBqotXgljd9gRVxX-lw3n3RtY1dk5FOgjMUxMQnlvMs9L-xXkzaAqbceRTTdQ57KaBsyr1TqVMDVZAERIPfPcNkn35Fk8zQidIw2BMwBz8aDGwpQWTSeoAA5ZijeXhgZU/s1600/UpgradeSecurityC.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5XXNzr53JIw_fBqotXgljd9gRVxX-lw3n3RtY1dk5FOgjMUxMQnlvMs9L-xXkzaAqbceRTTdQ57KaBsyr1TqVMDVZAERIPfPcNkn35Fk8zQidIw2BMwBz8aDGwpQWTSeoAA5ZijeXhgZU/s400/UpgradeSecurityC.jpg" border="0" alt="Home"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472665131753485842" /></a><br />Take outdoor motion sensor lighting. Burglars want to avoid detection, so they are often deterred by well-lit yards and driveways, making motion sensor lighting a wise investment. But for the past two decades, motion sensor lights have used Passive Infrared technology (PIR), which detects heat from moving objects. The problem? PIR technology can be easily fooled.<br /><br />PIR sensors can be triggered by wind or temperature changes. For example, they might turn on by wind-blown leaves, but fail to detect a burglar on a cold night. In addition, PIR motion sensor lights can only detect lateral, or side to side, movement. If a burglar moves towards a PIR light in a straight line, he can approach the house without triggering the light.<br /><br />But one new motion sensor light combines Doppler Radar with PIR to create more reliable home security. Precision Plus Doppler Radar, by Cooper Lighting, uses Doppler Radar to cover those areas where PIR motion sensors fail. Doppler Radar allows the motion sensor light to cover a larger range. Doppler Radar does not sense temperature, so weather changes don't affect its ability to sense somebody approaching the home. In addition, Doppler Radar can detect a person moving in a straight line towards or away from the home.<br /><br />Upgrading a motion sensor light is just one way to protect your home. Some low-tech, DIY solutions include installing heavier doors and deadlocks, and removing large hedges, which burglars can use to hide.<br /><br />To learn more about Precision Plus Doppler Radar, visit <a href="http://www.precisionplusdopplerradar.com">www.precisionplusdopplerradar.com</a><br /><br />More<br />- + <a href="http://americanhouses.blogspot.com/2008/08/home-security.html">home security</a><br />- <a href="http://americanhouses.blogspot.com/2009/03/inspections-ensure-healthy-homes.html">Inspections</a>Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-80033103832314785372010-05-18T09:18:00.000-07:002010-05-18T09:23:25.929-07:00Set Up a Nursery with Room to Grow(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - Preparing for a new baby is an exciting time in a couple's lives. And while baby-proofing electrical outlets and cabinets might seem tedious, no one ever complains about designing a new nursery.<br /><br />From teddy bear wall paper to ballerina cotton sheets, nurseries allow for more fun and whimsical designs than any other room in the house. But your baby won't be small for long -- before you know it, your bundle of joy will be crawling, climbing and toddling about.<br /><br />If you love redecorating, you might want to change your child's room as he or she grows. If your child will be sharing a room, or you plan on keeping one design for more than a few years, you should make decisions with the future in mind.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWDbCUXYmSOjHo0aP92tW_jRHoqpCpokQ4VHCehvQnsvAojqposPQcZNMz5Y7fevKifCH4KWAGL-dr9Aw2NOZgqCYc4Z8fYPn7xiT4y-7GfUsvjp4g07QNEZRxISWnM_E-9WP3CaFVAmH1/s1600/NurseryC.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 264px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWDbCUXYmSOjHo0aP92tW_jRHoqpCpokQ4VHCehvQnsvAojqposPQcZNMz5Y7fevKifCH4KWAGL-dr9Aw2NOZgqCYc4Z8fYPn7xiT4y-7GfUsvjp4g07QNEZRxISWnM_E-9WP3CaFVAmH1/s400/NurseryC.jpg" border="0" alt="Nursery"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472646381564939666" /></a><br />Pottery Barn Kids offers the following tips for parents starting to design new nurseries:<br /><br />* First and foremost, make sure that your baby's room is safe. Choose furniture, bedding and accessories that meet or exceed U.S. safety regulations. Don't place the crib near a window, and keep drapery and blind cords well out of the baby's reach. Cover all electrical outlets.<br /><br />* Design for function and beauty. Caring for a new baby is harrowing enough on its own -- make your life easier by choosing changing tables with built-in drawers or shelves, storage options that are easily accessible, and machine-washable bedding and changing-table covers.<br /><br />* Find bedding that you love, and design your nursery around it. Pick a light, medium and dark shade from the bedding, and use them throughout the room. Consider how long your design will be appropriate for your child. Two years? Longer? Think about color and pattern themes that will last through early childhood.<br /><br />* Go organic. You are going to spend a lot of time washing your baby's bedding, so choose three to four fitted sheets to keep in constant rotation. Organic cotton bedding is both eco- and baby-friendly, as the cotton is grown without toxins or pesticides. Pottery Barn Kids offers 100 percent organic bedding.<br /><br />* Add those special touches. Put photos on display, or spell out your baby's name on the wall. Decorate with handprints or footprints and plush toys, or paint a mural. You don't want to use all of these examples -- the nursery would look too crowded -- but two or three will make your nursery feel like home.<br /><br />For more tips on decorating your nursery, visit the Web site <a href="http://www.potterybarnkids.com">www.potterybarnkids.com</a>Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-5080787113855442662010-05-06T13:36:00.000-07:002010-05-07T19:57:28.106-07:00Navigate Through the Choices in Composite Decking(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - When many consumers decide to add a new deck or replace an existing one with a low-maintenance composite version, they typically discover an overwhelming amount of information available. Homeowners might find themselves faced with many options and have questions about how to choose the right product. What type of composite decking is right for me? How do I choose from the different types of deck boards? What color combinations are right for my home?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC61B983IpRArZrN0Lg5TFSSycoL7ZidZ0WYOwF9AC31mWQ-giyNUUdUovSJB_quHgcZWTXMD4mt71PQqaAsgnK9lYlyuLqv6kdKlJjOvdThEd_Ma0FT7K3iEfBGwiFnXHgOqYZa8i_Af5/s1600/DeckingC.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 297px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC61B983IpRArZrN0Lg5TFSSycoL7ZidZ0WYOwF9AC31mWQ-giyNUUdUovSJB_quHgcZWTXMD4mt71PQqaAsgnK9lYlyuLqv6kdKlJjOvdThEd_Ma0FT7K3iEfBGwiFnXHgOqYZa8i_Af5/s400/DeckingC.jpg" border="0" alt="Composite Decking"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468259823418816402" /></a><br />There are quite a few different decking options available, based on individual needs and budgets. Composite decking is available in several different types of boards with varying looks, colors and qualities; therefore, it is important to understand all the alternatives.<br /><br />Based on all these options, how can consumers decide which is best for their lifestyle? TimberTech, one of the leading manufacturers of composite decking, railing and fencing products, offers a number of tools that help sort through the details of choosing a deck and assist consumers in making educated decisions about their new deck.<br /><br />At the beginning of the decision-making process, consumers first need to choose the type of board that best fits their lifestyles and tastes. Tools like the Product Selector guide consumers through a series of step-by-step questions that are used to uncover their needs, habits and deck usage. The results give consumers options of board type and style that are best suited to their needs.<br /><br />Another tool that is helpful during the planning process is the Deck Designer. By using the Deck Designer, consumers can enter the desired size, shape and color of their dream deck so that they can envision the deck before it is built. When the deck design is complete, users can print a 3-D model of the deck, build a materials list and get installation guidelines and helpful construction tips for their deck.<br /><br />The newest tool, designed to help consumers decide among the varieties of color combinations available, is TimberTech's Color Visualizer. The Color Visualizer lets consumers choose different home colors and decking color combinations. The colors of the primary decking, accent decking, rails or balusters and posts can all be changed to build a customized look. If consumers are looking for more direction, the Color Visualizer also offers suggestions of the most popular color combinations.<br /><br />No matter what type of composite decking consumers choose, it is important to understand the different offerings available by taking advantage of these free interactive tools available online at <a href="http://www.timbertech.com">www.timbertech.com</a>Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-39122013800797146292010-05-04T09:16:00.000-07:002010-05-04T09:55:24.678-07:00Re-insulation Projects Offer Year-Round Rewards(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - Homeowners seeking to pad their homes and wallets should consider re-insulation projects that maximize energy efficiency year-round. Simple, energy-saving practices will not only reduce heating and cooling bills every month, but also will result in a higher tax return next year.<br /><br />The federal government expanded the scope of a tax credit program that rewards homeowners for energy-efficiency improvements, giving homeowners a prime opportunity to increase their homes' efficiency. Homeowners are eligible to receive a 30 percent federal tax credit up to $1,500 for weatherization improvements in their homes through Dec. 31, 2010,<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtxLk4S_45AplTQC5aciquBojqstUbHP3yGq9CgfKSI3wvNnalkADuLsxTzmIvFgsiXtbQrW3R87lnzlS9pii_1kzmBUvNNf3DdOC0bELD6NqartPimZ95pWAIf6NUGw0gnPXb0Exb96T_/s1600/insulation-home.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 349px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtxLk4S_45AplTQC5aciquBojqstUbHP3yGq9CgfKSI3wvNnalkADuLsxTzmIvFgsiXtbQrW3R87lnzlS9pii_1kzmBUvNNf3DdOC0bELD6NqartPimZ95pWAIf6NUGw0gnPXb0Exb96T_/s400/insulation-home.jpg" border="0" alt="Re-insulation"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467459240048234978" /></a><br />And as far as energy-efficient improvements are concerned, re-insulation is a smart solution for the near and short term.<br /><br />"Most of the steps you can take to improve your home's energy efficiency in the cooler winter months are equally as effective in the warmer summer months, when the thermal flows are simply reversed," said Bohdan Boyko, building science manager with GreenFiber, a natural-fiber insulation product made from 85 percent recycled materials. "In most areas of the country, winter has the greatest temperature differences between inside and outside temperatures, but in either situation -; summer or winter -; a properly insulated home is one that will help cut energy bills, lower the home's carbon footprint and help keep a family comfortable."<br /><br />Homeowners can find information on the benefits of re-insulation, including R-Value education, how to's and tax credit information from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, at <a href="http://www.greenfiber.com/">www.greenfiber.com</a> where researchers engineered a special new blow-in product that aids in retro-fit projects. Older homes or homes where current insulation is inadequate can benefit from attic air sealing, duct sealing, attic insulating and side wall insulating. Because the insulation is literally "blown in" through a tube, it can reach high crevices and deep places in walls. "Re-insulation is a fast and easy way to improve a home's energy efficiency, often with little up-front cost," said Boyko. "A blow-in insulation product will perform better than material that is cut to fit, because it provides complete coverage and fills gaps, unlike fixed-dimension insulation products."<br /><br />Do-it-yourselfers should have no difficulties renting equipment and tackling a blow-in natural-fiber insulation project in an afternoon. And because natural-fiber insulation is made from recycled content, it provides the greatest benefit to the environment, diverting materials from local landfills and reducing the energy a home could draw.Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-33935350665374758902010-03-09T12:12:00.000-08:002010-03-09T12:20:13.516-08:00Tips On Making Over Your HomeFrom Blah To Ahh.<br /><br />(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - Giving your home a makeover doesn't just mean on the inside. Often, the exterior can also be in desperate need, but is often overlooked.<br /><br />While outside projects may seem daunting and expensive, new online tools can help consumers visualize the home of their dreams.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ2K-T2EqE17ImbybuUpsmpw1snHE4R8lBk7oQ2eMOnCeg3cyLA22CXYwjRj-9apgtMwTG-CpPwwkq1YuuhsTVBh3d8uZyWI-4uGpxKu9ZU2mc3wNJyNxGd9M6CIR-PcczF7FTMI7ywFg0/s1600-h/house-makeover.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 384px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ2K-T2EqE17ImbybuUpsmpw1snHE4R8lBk7oQ2eMOnCeg3cyLA22CXYwjRj-9apgtMwTG-CpPwwkq1YuuhsTVBh3d8uZyWI-4uGpxKu9ZU2mc3wNJyNxGd9M6CIR-PcczF7FTMI7ywFg0/s400/house-makeover.jpg" border="0" alt="Home makeover"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446731383161463250" /></a><br />CertainTeed Corporation offers ColorView, an online interactive exterior style and color selector, to help homeowners explore options. Through its Web site, <a href="http://www.certainteed.com/colorview">www.certainteed.com/colorview</a> homeowners can envision how high-end roofing, vinyl and fiber cement siding, trim, fence, railing and deck products look on various home styles.<br /><br />Homeowners begin a session by entering their zip codes to view color and brand availability, then select the home style that most resembles their current home. The exterior is then customizable with hundreds of different colors and styles of products.<br /><br />In addition, the following tips can also spruce up your property and give your home a gentle facelift:<br /><br />- Change the exterior colors of your house. A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for a home's exterior or consider re-siding your home with low-maintenance vinyl or fiber cement siding, which is available in dozens of colors from CertainTeed.<br /><br />- Unclog those gutters. Nothing can seem more mundane then spending part of your weekend unclogging the gutters on your home; however, not only will it keep the exterior of your home looking tidy, it can also prevent potential problems down the road.<br /><br />- Clean up the yard. Unsightly weeds, overgrown hedges and grass, and mulch strewn about can give a home a disheveled appearance. Spend a weekend outside tending to the property, planting flowers and pulling weeds. Look for vinyl fencing, deck or railing for an added extra touch to your outdoor living areas such as CertainTeed's EverNew deck and railing or Chesterfield vinyl fence with CertaStucco.<br /><br />- Make it shine. Adding more lighting or just upgrading fixtures that are already in place are easy and affordable solutions when thinking about what to do to the outside of your home. Consider putting in either solar-powered or electric walkway lights, or if you're feeling particularly creative, think about highlighting trees in your yard with small lights or hanging paper lanterns from your front porch.<br /><br />For more information on color options for your home, call 800-782-8777 or visit <a href="http://www.certainteed.com">www.certainteed.com</a>Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-53527195074084493572010-01-14T14:43:00.000-08:002010-01-14T14:49:45.958-08:00The Flip Side of Foreclosure(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - In so many ways, foreclosure is an end. It's a bank's last resort, and the sad final chapter for a family sold on the American dream of home ownership.<br /><br />But in another sense, foreclosure is also a beginning -- a never desirable, but often useful, tool that can help stave off neighborhood blight and create a path toward rejuvenation.<br /><br />As much as everyone wants to avoid foreclosure, it does provide cities -- especially older ones with declining populations -- the legal means necessary for acquiring property that would otherwise become vacant or abandoned.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirXUcU_kboUclckg17AnErZSV-4Usmf0x8_ri-HDIfzFQSCqLNOO7NtyDqFIpC-_osAX2JpMDpn1TOJY3tPZLNEja5gx_ULkLdIy5AnFqWKzrC1tHFJyThi_ZYnCwEXAXmD8RdOLyIzgDq/s1600-h/FlipSideC.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirXUcU_kboUclckg17AnErZSV-4Usmf0x8_ri-HDIfzFQSCqLNOO7NtyDqFIpC-_osAX2JpMDpn1TOJY3tPZLNEja5gx_ULkLdIy5AnFqWKzrC1tHFJyThi_ZYnCwEXAXmD8RdOLyIzgDq/s400/FlipSideC.jpg" border="0" alt="Foreclosure"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426731272163496242" /></a><br />The trouble is that there's a stigma associated with foreclosure, and legislators can be swayed to impose restrictions on the process that make it more difficult for municipalities that want to reclaim and reuse property that has been left to decay.<br /><br />So, from a policy perspective, what can be done to create better legal tools for clearing titles that don't depend solely on the self-interest of debt collectors? Here are some ideas proposed by Mary Helen Petrus, a researcher at the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland:<br /><br />* Quiet title actions, in which governments go to court to "quiet" any and all claims to a property's title.<br /><br />* Laws to facilitate nuisance abatement through receivership (giving courts the power to assign repairs or improvements to an overseer of a vacant property).<br /><br />* New rules making it easier for willing homeowners to forfeit their properties so that governments can take stewardship.<br /><br />* Processes for tax foreclosures that don't have to go through the courts.<br /><br />This is not to say that foreclosure is always the best option. In viable neighborhoods, the most beneficial course of action is generally to focus on improving the quality and affordability of housing for the people who still live there. But when there's a breakdown, and there's no hope of rescuing properties from becoming vacant or falling into disrepair, foreclosure is often the most viable option.<br /><br />This is especially true in American cities where joblessness is high, or the population is dwindling. In these situations, where there simply aren't enough homebuyers to purchase the number of homes available in a market, foreclosure can actually help begin the process of revitalizing neighborhoods. For more information on this subject, visit <a href="http://http://www.clevelandfed.org/pr/foreclosure">www.clevelandfed.org/pr/foreclosure</a>Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-45881335673513832392009-12-03T12:03:00.000-08:002009-12-03T12:11:59.246-08:00Tips for Getting Your Furnace Ready for Winter(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - Frigid days are fast approaching. And as snow falls and temperatures plummet, it is important to make sure your furnace is in proper working condition. Follow these tips to make sure you don't get left in the cold this winter.<br /><br />1. Have your heating equipment properly maintained and cleaned by a licensed heating and cooling contractor.<br /><br />2. Have the duct work checked for air leaks. Research shows that faulty ductwork accounts for more than 25 percent of the heating loss in an average home.<br /><br />3. Replace air filters. A dirty filter restricts air flow and causes the unit to lose efficiency.<br /><br />4. Use a programmable thermostat. By setting your thermostat from 72 degrees to 65 degrees for eight hours a day (for instance, while no one is home or while everyone is sleeping) you can cut your heating bill by up to 10 percent according to the Department of Energy.<br /><br />5. Keep air supply and return registers free from obstructions (for example, furniture, rugs, and clothes baskets).<br /><br />6. Use a whole-home humidifier. Heated indoor air is very dry and needs to be humidified. Actually, one of the driest places on earth could be your home. Don't believe it? The relative humidity of the Sahara Desert is 25 percent; Death Valley's 23 percent. In the winter months, the average heated home can have a relative humidity as low as 13 to 16 percent. The benefits of using an Aprilaire automatic whole-home humidifier include:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3-sVAMNUqWXnuJ5dEYq3ii44HEGa7_S9LSdoayOiCSsGYKHsOgVLnIxRe-wxNOjDWNGHMve5lNwLWAl_xnObf6R525xmsL5jAiDBZqBBdnh9r0FONE0Z9V3lgwaDjpmFZiksBZH2qs2AS/s1600-h/winter-maintenance.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 263px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3-sVAMNUqWXnuJ5dEYq3ii44HEGa7_S9LSdoayOiCSsGYKHsOgVLnIxRe-wxNOjDWNGHMve5lNwLWAl_xnObf6R525xmsL5jAiDBZqBBdnh9r0FONE0Z9V3lgwaDjpmFZiksBZH2qs2AS/s400/winter-maintenance.jpg" border="0" alt="Maintenance"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411105100756216290" /></a><br /><blockquote>* Comfort helps eliminate dry nose and throat and itchy skin, while also reducing static electricity.<br /><br />* Well being optimum humidity levels can help reduce the chance of upper-respiratory problems caused by dry air. Ask your doctor.<br /><br />* Preservation proper humidification levels will protect against shrinkage and cracking in furniture, moldings and hardwood floors.<br /><br />* Energy savings adding moisture to the air means you'll feel warmer with lower, energy-saving indoor temperatures. A home heated to 69 degree with 35 percent humidity feels just as warm as a 72 degree home at 19 percent humidity.</blockquote><br /><br />Visit <a href="http://www.aprilaire.com">www.aprilaire.com</a> for more information.Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-90330136101791305922009-12-02T11:14:00.000-08:002009-12-02T11:21:13.619-08:00Professional Ranges Make Gourmet Meals(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - Watching food programs has become a favorite activity for many Americans, but recreating the gourmet meals onscreen is often easier said than done. True, television chefs often have cooking degrees from fancy schools and years of restaurant experience, but you don't need to be a professional to put an impressive meal on the table. What you do need is professional-quality cooking equipment.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbL-NZqwegLa0K2_492ICdoEkFQNQsjL5ZP3KFi4SX6eFspPEFkDC_XaLNlH4_mYcsg4ZTJJdaRrENTBWUThYpPrQ-nFD8pJmv-XK_gK9Q7RgcGhEt6Phw5nef4mGlKBpv6uO4weBXZ5Qt/s1600-h/kitchen.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbL-NZqwegLa0K2_492ICdoEkFQNQsjL5ZP3KFi4SX6eFspPEFkDC_XaLNlH4_mYcsg4ZTJJdaRrENTBWUThYpPrQ-nFD8pJmv-XK_gK9Q7RgcGhEt6Phw5nef4mGlKBpv6uO4weBXZ5Qt/s400/kitchen.jpg" border="0" alt="Kitchen"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410720942151739058" /></a><br />Americans looking for the professional cooking experience can buy professional ranges for home-use. These ranges mimic the power and larger cooking surfaces of commercial models in a heavy duty, stainless steel package with the insulation and convenience features required for cooking at home.<br /><br />A burner on a standard stove has a power output of about 9,000 BTU, whereas a professional range for the home will average 15,000 BTU. Putting even more power to work for home chefs, Thermador's Professional Series ranges and rangetops feature star-shaped burners with an output of 18,000 BTU each. The results: with this much power on every burner, large pots of water will boil in a fraction of the time, and overall faster and more even heating results, allowing the most challenging recipes and techniques to be mastered at home.<br /><br />Thermador, which started making professional-style ranges for home use in the 1990s, recently introduced its fourth-generation Star Burner. The burner's unique design directs heat evenly from the center of the pan to its edges creating a more even and superior distribution of heat than the standard circular burner, reducing cold spots, which ultimately affects the way the food will cook. Thermador Professional Series ranges also feature patented ExtraLow simmer burners, which have an output of 375 BTU per hour. This precise simmer control system enables home cooks to heat delicate sauces or melt chocolate without scorching or stirring.<br /><br />Professional ranges for the home also offer a streamlined, professional look. With a bold, chiseled profile, high-grade stainless steel knobs and an angled door handle, the Professional Series from Thermador creates a classic, robust feel in any home kitchen.<br /><br />For more information, visit <a href="http://www.thermador.com">www.thermador.com</a>Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-10264578989553744422009-11-25T05:20:00.000-08:002009-11-25T05:30:37.603-08:00Resolve to Get Organized in 2010(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - Start 2010 with a bang: organize your home and work space! Take the first step by installing shelving that is specifically suited to maximize your space. To successfully clear out and keep out clutter, you need storage space. The folks who operate <a href="http://www.Shelving.com">www.Shelving.com</a> and <a href="http://www.TheShelvingStore.com">www.TheShelvingStore.com</a> have been providing shelving and storage fixtures for over fifty years. They know that one size does not fit all when it comes to maximizing your available storage space.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnBeNxgK9GpnTiIgT_0mEC8KPfLu_wiLKxlfGSErBYuUQ7IhpL_Nez9Pf7l1cCBncIsRWCGqi7UZh9EZ4wKoHonWfZKS8pVpjBVwrIHmPP7hyphenhyphen10V5wOzDMXOWs8uyWQjpQCCXGudgHbnsb/s1600/GetOrganizedC.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 340px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnBeNxgK9GpnTiIgT_0mEC8KPfLu_wiLKxlfGSErBYuUQ7IhpL_Nez9Pf7l1cCBncIsRWCGqi7UZh9EZ4wKoHonWfZKS8pVpjBVwrIHmPP7hyphenhyphen10V5wOzDMXOWs8uyWQjpQCCXGudgHbnsb/s400/GetOrganizedC.jpg" border="0" alt="Interior design"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408031994694119666" /></a><br />When measuring the space for your shelving project, go up as high as you can. If you have a 9-foot ceiling, use shelving units<br /><br />that are 8-feet high. If you have large and bulky items to store, use shelves that are as deep as your space will allow. Shelving units that are 24-inch, 30-inch, 36-inch deep or even deeper provide much-needed room.<br /><br />The more shelves you have in each unit, the greater your storage space per square feet of density. For example, a 24-inch-deep by 48-inch-wide shelving unit will occupy 8 square feet of floor space. If you erect a shelving unit 8 feet high and add eight shelves to the unit, you would create 128 square feet of shelving space in just 8 square feet of floor space. Think higher, deeper, wider and add as many shelf levels as possible if you want to get the most density out of your floor space.<br /><br />Be organized (always), be practical (keep it simple) and get some functional shelving. Wall-mounted decorative shelving is a wonderful complement to just about any room, and they create shelving space where free-standing shelving wouldn't be appropriate. Consider glass shelving for a more contemporary design, or wood grain shelves for a softer, warmer tone.<br /><br />Whatever your interior design tastes, there are shelves that will satisfy your desire for form and function. With decorative wall-mounted shelving, you can display your prized items like trophies, pottery and pictures in frames. Your home and office should reflect your personality, so choose personalized displays. Using the right shelf will get you on your way to being organized.<br /><br />An efficient home is a happy home. Start 2010 happy and organized with the help of The Shelving Store.<br /><br />Visit their Web sites at <a href="http://www.TheShelvingStore.com">www.TheShelvingStore.com</a> and <a href="http://www.Shelving.com">www.Shelving.com</a> for more ideas on how to better utilize your existing storage space. They offer free shelving designs for any project.<br /><br /><a href="http://americanhouses.blogspot.com/2009/10/get-organized-for-holiday-entertaining.html">Get organized for Holidays</a>Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-1124248776936897112009-10-29T10:49:00.000-07:002009-10-29T11:07:24.461-07:00Mastering the Alaska Home Heating Test(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - If a wall-hung boiler can heat a home in Alaska problem-free for 10 winters, then it can heat a home anywhere, according to mechanical contractor Mike La Fay.<br /><br />La Fay, owner of Meadow Lakes Supply in Wasilla, Alaska, installed his first Baxi Luna modulating wall-hung boiler in early 2000. Since then, he has installed more than 100 of these high efficiency, eco-friendly heating appliances in homes throughout Matanuska Susitna County, which is a 50-minute drive north-east from Anchorage.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3stDZKSlW3VC2_0nqy8yZC33GeVuKkpioXMQdGgEQcDxV1uCRNc77A_ZPOlLQiq7l5jliMEXwwM2osf188eZ2ZyuMYUKF6r4TJJO8y6N11V8-NCdcghksKKRfOLQDOhvurCXmaLfX-Kj4/s1600-h/AlaskaWinterC.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 265px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3stDZKSlW3VC2_0nqy8yZC33GeVuKkpioXMQdGgEQcDxV1uCRNc77A_ZPOlLQiq7l5jliMEXwwM2osf188eZ2ZyuMYUKF6r4TJJO8y6N11V8-NCdcghksKKRfOLQDOhvurCXmaLfX-Kj4/s400/AlaskaWinterC.jpg" border="0" alt="Winter"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398084941791637074" /></a><br />"It can be 30 below zero here for three weeks straight, so a reliable heating appliance is essential for both home comfort and survival," La Fay says. "I have not experienced any significant problem with Baxi Luna performance. With Gensco, the exclusive Baxi distributor in Alaska stocking parts and accessories, I am really looking forward to my second decade as a Baxi contractor."<br /><br />Gensco is a leading wholesale distributor of heating supplies and equipment, selling only to qualified contractors trade in Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana since 1947. More recently, Gensco supplied 250 Baxi Luna boilers for an award-winning community redevelopment of Seattle Housing Authority, which reported 37 percent energy use savings over another hydronic heating system.<br /><br />"My neighborhood just got natural gas recently, so I now have a Baxi Luna heating our family home and my shop. Our former oil fuel bill was up to $500 a month, and now we are spending around $150 for gas," La Fay notes. "You simply can't get better than that -- saving lots of money while knowing your heating system will withstand the coldest challenges of our winter."<br /><br />Baxi is one of Europe's largest heating products manufacturer and has been making leading wall-hung boilers since the late 1960s. The firm's Bassano, Italy, plant has been producing Baxi Luna wallhung heating since it opened in 1978 and now makes 4,000 boilers a day for export to 70 countries, including the United States. Baxi heat exchangers are stainless steel and bear the ASME H-Stamp.<br /><br />"I can recommend this appliance to homeowners with confidence, knowing it has a proven Alaska track record for quality, safety and environmental performance," says La Fay, who does ongoing maintenance of his installations and remains committed to learning more about the product. "I have learned a lot from a Baxi Luna training and contractor-certification CD-ROM. It is a great tool for a contractor located in Alaska."<br /><br />To learn more about proven Baxi energy-efficient, eco-friendly heating solutions, including modulating, condensing or near-condensing boilers<br /><br />(in either combination central heating and domestic hot water mode, or heating-only), visit <a href="http://www.wallhungboilers.com">www.wallhungboilers.com</a>Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-38646826706133310162009-10-22T10:27:00.000-07:002009-10-22T10:34:51.491-07:00Make Pool Maintenance Mindless, Eco-Friendly(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - Most people want to enjoy their pools, not spend time maintaining them. And with today's busy schedules, it's easier than ever to make mistakes, like running pool equipment too long or letting the water go green -- and not in the eco-friendly sense.<br /><br />But automating pool functions can save up to 75 percent of a pool's annual energy costs, while also reducing chemical use and maintenance time. Pool owners can customize pool functions to their schedule. For example, someone may set their pool's filter pump to run longer or more often on weekends, when the pool experiences heavier use.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn4NJySmsQGSDPxRUqAzZwoxhwKaFrVCmOnjCEw4xk-8Fd54_SkkDTuVANqMB0M2gUNTovWLl0pY08Pexi6T3OK0vFaeC7ZQ0XMFjsOS-EWI8BrnnL7Nmm-61pNgJngNmIZr0UyD1A2fJb/s1600-h/swiming-pool.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 269px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn4NJySmsQGSDPxRUqAzZwoxhwKaFrVCmOnjCEw4xk-8Fd54_SkkDTuVANqMB0M2gUNTovWLl0pY08Pexi6T3OK0vFaeC7ZQ0XMFjsOS-EWI8BrnnL7Nmm-61pNgJngNmIZr0UyD1A2fJb/s400/swiming-pool.jpg" border="0" alt="Pool Maintenance"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395478928282646290" /></a><br />The pool experts at Hayward offer the following tips for Americans looking to enjoy their pools with minimum effort and maximum savings:<br /><br />- Replace your pool's filter pump. A pool pump may be your home's second or third largest energy consumer after air conditioning units. But a multi-speed, energy-efficient pump can save up to 75 percent on your pool operating costs. Hayward recommends its Tristar 2-speed pump or Variable Speed pump that features up to eight programmable speeds. Owners can further reduce energy consumption by setting each action's time, speed and duration, or setting the pump to work during off-hours.<br /><br />- Use a robotic cleaner. A robotic cleaner can quickly pay for itself, saving up to 94 percent of the energy used by a pressure cleaner and booster pump. The best models, like the TigerShark, use little energy themselves, operate independently from other pool functions and shut off after cleaning.<br /><br />- Are you still flipping switches? Save energy by managing your pool and spa functions with automation. The new OnCommand automatic pool controls can be retrofitted to your pool for less than the price of your next big-screen TV. Program and control up to 4 functions such as your multi-speed filter pump, booster pump, pool/spa lights, heater or pool cleaner.<br /><br />For more information, visit <a href="http://www.haywardnet.com">www.haywardnet.com</a>Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-55512239759922631112009-10-22T10:15:00.000-07:002009-10-22T10:26:17.891-07:00Tips for Creating a Sustainable, Stylish, High-Performing Bathroom(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - Pioneering new product solutions can transform any bathroom from a water-and-money-waster to a water-and-cash-saver without sacrificing style or performance. Think that your bathroom doesn't offer a significant potential for cash savings? Think again.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV4aIeikWbPUST6VtAHMABHV-ZwVkTYca6669q816HzF6xkBbb9bF6ZrKPaMaVeasKDU07NNKqQAvpIxIMJA7uyeiu28nvOfvVxAfSIwEhC9XUV_fmldzf9e3rbZAxZFNjMjT6cJ5rcJDv/s1600-h/toilet.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 339px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV4aIeikWbPUST6VtAHMABHV-ZwVkTYca6669q816HzF6xkBbb9bF6ZrKPaMaVeasKDU07NNKqQAvpIxIMJA7uyeiu28nvOfvVxAfSIwEhC9XUV_fmldzf9e3rbZAxZFNjMjT6cJ5rcJDv/s400/toilet.jpg" border="0" alt="Toilet"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395476839265396770" /></a><br />Let's do a little math with the help of the Water Savings Calculator (<a href="http://www.americanstandard-us.com/water-efficiency">www.americanstandard-us.com/water-efficiency</a>/) created by American Standard. Using an average residential cost of $6.06 per 1,000 gallons of water per year, consider this:<br /><br />* Install new 1.28-gallon-per-flush (gpf) high-efficiency toilets to replace older (pre-1990) 3.5 gpf toilets currently in your home. With the average toilet being flushed 12 times per day, replacing two older toilets saves $118 and 19,447 gallons of water per year.<br /><br />* Replace three 2.2-gallon-per-minute (gpm) faucets with 0.5 gpm WaterSense-labeled faucets and use them the same 40 minutes per day. The result: Save $451 and 74,460 gallons per year.<br /><br />* Swap out two 3.0 gpm showerheads for new 1.5 gpm models and save $265 and 43,800 gallons per year.<br /><br />Grab the calculator -- in one year, the average household can save $834 and more than four swimming pools' worth of water!<br /><br />Bulking up your wallet and saving water become all the more appealing when combined with a new generation of plumbing products that offer peak performance. Remember these product selection tips as you outfit a new, greener bathroom for your home:<br /><br />* Look for the WaterSense label. Created by the Environmental Protection Agency, this label certifies that products reduce water usage by 20 percent or more without sacrificing performance. The WaterSense label is currently available for high-efficiency toilets (HETs) and faucets. American Standard has the most high-efficiency toilets independently rated to flush more than two pounds of solids. All American Standard bathroom faucets are WaterSense-certified, and they comply with stringent new no-lead requirements.<br /><br />* Keep performance front and center when going green. The goal is conservation without sacrifice. Using as little as 1.0 gallon of water on the light setting, the H2Option Dual Flush HET scours the sides of the bowl with a strong push-and-pull siphonic action created by a forceful, but quiet, jetted action under the rim. The FloWise three-function showerhead has the option of a full 2.5 gallon flow rate, but an internal turbine also delivers invigorating sprays at lower water-use settings.Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-208833528680721622009-10-16T16:54:00.000-07:002009-10-16T17:05:21.700-07:00Get Organized for Holiday Entertaining(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - As you start preparing for holiday guests, take a look at your home. Is it crowded with clutter? If so, you might want to think about getting your home in order. After all, you need to make room for a Christmas tree, gifts and stockings!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh50FA752XPEXLOqYlA1fBWKv3Tx6TNpjOi849Plj-7av4ryqgZs9YnsU4gki9CEM5J6GCSqUPK3uGyuaQzUzacRTtjrgwKQeKu1CiH7TkdF4U_5D9Gwv8DIgo7epzxLBhAvfoA9zjnZAp8/s1600-h/holiday-shelves.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 334px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh50FA752XPEXLOqYlA1fBWKv3Tx6TNpjOi849Plj-7av4ryqgZs9YnsU4gki9CEM5J6GCSqUPK3uGyuaQzUzacRTtjrgwKQeKu1CiH7TkdF4U_5D9Gwv8DIgo7epzxLBhAvfoA9zjnZAp8/s400/holiday-shelves.jpg" border="0" alt="Shelves"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5393353101613911234" /></a><br />Not sure how to start? Here are some tips from Shelving.com, where folks have been making space work better for almost 50 years. If you need more efficient storage space, they have the answer:<br /><br />- Maximize your space. If you have an old-fashioned closet with just one shelf and one hanging bar, install shelves and use all the vertical space you have. Most closets only utilize about 50 percent of their storage capacity. With a properly designed shelving system, you can use nearly all of the available space.<br /><br />- Make items easy to find. You don't want to waste time pawing through closets or searching under beds to find what you need, so don't just jam clutter out of sight. Create a more efficient storage space. Use labeled bins in your closet. Box up and store off season items. Use shelves and drawers to categorize items.<br /><br />- Decorate with storage space. Put ottomans in the living room, and use them to store magazines or board games. Hang attractive shelves to decorate along your walls. Instead of end tables, use antique chests or drawers that also provide useable storage space.<br /><br />Keeping calm during the chaotic holiday season starts at home -- clutter creates stress and will certainly disrupt the peace and joy of the holiday season. Start with one project (say, a single room or closet) before tackling another.<br /><br />An efficient home is a happy home. Become happy and organized with the help of The Shelving Store. Visit their Web site at <a href="http://www.TheShelvingStore.com/small">www.TheShelvingStore.com/small</a> for ideas. They offer free shelving designs for just about any space in your home.Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-74235062211271391952009-10-07T07:40:00.000-07:002009-10-07T08:56:52.214-07:00Must-Do Kitchen Maintenance(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - As cooler weather approaches, folks start preparing their home for the long winter months, when entertaining moves from the deck to the kitchen.<br /><br />As you clean your home, consider giving your appliances tune-ups to keep them running more efficiently. The home economists at Whirlpool Corporation offer several quick tips and tricks to prepare the kitchen for the holiday entertaining season:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqEanBSYz2U89dVOrtmsD3HAYXEZMnQG4AK9K_iFC6KMomoYUarg3-vd63jDxIOqAKj9-Qd8JOcZ7YVOCGht5gaCBOwSe0B5uCAh7CnkMy6CVjbxkBw_ASbCNODlRun_m6wTvPjH9oqDOm/s1600-h/kitchen-maintenance.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 302px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqEanBSYz2U89dVOrtmsD3HAYXEZMnQG4AK9K_iFC6KMomoYUarg3-vd63jDxIOqAKj9-Qd8JOcZ7YVOCGht5gaCBOwSe0B5uCAh7CnkMy6CVjbxkBw_ASbCNODlRun_m6wTvPjH9oqDOm/s400/kitchen-maintenance.jpg" border="0" alt="Kitchen maintenance"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389887460067068690" /></a><br />* Change the water filter. Be sure to change the refrigerator water filter every six months to keep water fresh and free of contaminants.<br /><br />* Use the dishwasher. According to ENERGY STAR, the U.S. government program that certifies energy-efficient appliances, washing dishes by hand uses much more water than using a dishwasher. Using an ENERGY STAR-qualified dishwasher instead of hand washing will save 5,000 gallons of water, $40 in utility costs and 230 hours of your time each year.<br /><br />* Stop pre-rinsing dishes. When you pre-rinse dishes, the detergent doesn't have any grease or grime to stick to. As a result, the detergent will attack dishes, making them appear cloudy, scratched or etched.<br /><br />* Get rid of dust bunnies. Use a slender vacuum attachment or hosiery wrapped around a yardstick to clear out dust and debris from behind and underneath the refrigerator. Dusting will help the fridge run more efficiently.<br /><br />* Switch to electric. Electric cooktops are about twice as energy-efficient as gas. Electric elements have high-efficiency insulation surrounding the element, and the close proximity to the pot or pan allows efficient heat transfer.<br /><br />* Do a clean sweep. Cleaning appliances on a regular basis can keep unwanted odors at bay, since it has the tendency to exist anywhere moisture is present in a closed environment. Dishwashers and garbage disposals fit the bill -- clean them every 30 days to prevent odors from leftover food particles and residue.<br /><br />To help make this chore a little easier, Whirlpool Corporation developed affresh Dishwasher and Disposal Cleaner, the only two-in-one product on the market that removes unwanted odors in dishwashers and garbage disposals. Recommended for monthly use, consumers simply drop the tablets into the dishwasher and disposal for a convenient and affordable solution to unpleasant odors.<br /><br />For additional information and product availability, please visit <a href="http://www.affresh.com">www.affresh.com</a>Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-35850171988316929772009-10-01T11:59:00.000-07:002009-10-01T12:04:40.664-07:00Professional Ranges Make Gourmet Meals(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - Watching food programs has become a favorite activity for many Americans, but recreating the gourmet meals onscreen is often easier said than done. True, television chefs often have cooking degrees from fancy schools and years of restaurant experience, but you don't need to be a professional to put an impressive meal on the table. What you do need is professional-quality cooking equipment.<br /><br />Americans looking for the professional cooking experience can buy professional ranges for home-use. These ranges mimic the power and larger cooking surfaces of commercial models in a heavy duty, stainless steel package with the insulation and convenience features required for cooking at home.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnwIPzHV6U3rFt-t0kXbINxlRBgUPp6APLKsb_y_BCAdk0AmA-ZlxKAKLehwPv_ZXF4mdR4_cL6j7GET6gRFwQfgh8SYIMBZowDJHX5sYbWTzAGuOW0Ln8y6ST2QDuj1OwW85MRaAsSvgP/s1600-h/professional-range.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 297px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnwIPzHV6U3rFt-t0kXbINxlRBgUPp6APLKsb_y_BCAdk0AmA-ZlxKAKLehwPv_ZXF4mdR4_cL6j7GET6gRFwQfgh8SYIMBZowDJHX5sYbWTzAGuOW0Ln8y6ST2QDuj1OwW85MRaAsSvgP/s400/professional-range.jpg" border="0" alt="Professional range"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387709397258682450" /></a><br />A burner on a standard stove has a power output of about 9,000 BTU, whereas a professional range for the home will average 15,000 BTU. Putting even more power to work for home chefs, Thermador's Professional Series ranges and rangetops feature star-shaped burners with an output of 18,000 BTU each. The results: with this much power on every burner, large pots of water will boil in a fraction of the time, and overall faster and more even heating results, allowing the most challenging recipes and techniques to be mastered at home.<br /><br />Thermador, which started making professional-style ranges for home use in the 1990s, recently introduced its fourth-generation Star Burner. The burner's unique design directs heat evenly from the center of the pan to its edges creating a more even and superior distribution of heat than the standard circular burner, reducing cold spots, which ultimately affects the way the food will cook. Thermador Professional Series ranges also feature patented ExtraLow simmer burners, which have an output of 375 BTU per hour. This precise simmer control system enables home cooks to heat delicate sauces or melt chocolate without scorching or stirring.<br /><br />Professional ranges for the home also offer a streamlined, professional look. With a bold, chiseled profile, high-grade stainless steel knobs and an angled door handle, the Professional Series from Thermador creates a classic, robust feel in any home kitchen.<br /><br />For more information, visit <a href="http://www.thermador.com">www.thermador.com</a>Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-82608498475838713502009-09-29T09:29:00.000-07:002009-09-29T09:37:18.369-07:00Expert Tips for Proper Pool Closing(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - You might not think about your pool too much after the end of summer, but what you do at the end of swimming season will determine your workload come spring. Properly winterizing your pool will make opening it easier, not to mention help prevent damage.<br /><br />Poorly winterized pools may sustain freeze-thaw damage, broken equipment, underground drain damage and poor water quality in the spring. Every year, Americans spend thousands of dollars repairing pools that were not closed properly.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_S7y6uQdNtraFGD65-KOkN2jtP1S1E5-P0HLsq6stfLOFyfk9LV5H3HXQbXJMU1uRz3fpruGgIVyVqcTitYItzgY7wooq6IyhXjqnpC4B0DL_gypT5oZykduQUlVehSyZgQ_s4ohGmLpa/s1600-h/winter-pool.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_S7y6uQdNtraFGD65-KOkN2jtP1S1E5-P0HLsq6stfLOFyfk9LV5H3HXQbXJMU1uRz3fpruGgIVyVqcTitYItzgY7wooq6IyhXjqnpC4B0DL_gypT5oZykduQUlVehSyZgQ_s4ohGmLpa/s400/winter-pool.jpg" border="0" alt="Winter pool"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386929268267309730" /></a><br />BioGuard, a company that supplies water treatment products for recreational and industrial use, offers the following tips for pool owners looking to properly close their pools:<br /><br />* Conduct a final pool water test. Bring a water sample to your local BioGuard dealer to receive a quick, computerized water analysis. The water analysis will ensure that the water in your pool is balanced. After the dealer tests your water, he or she can recommend and provide the exact materials you need to close your pool for the winter, including information on protecting your pool surfaces and equipment.<br /><br />* Brush the walls and floor of your pool and vacuum it thoroughly. Clean the skimmer basket and lint trap.<br /><br />* Use a special filter cleaner to thoroughly clean the filter. A dirty filter can cake and harden over the winter, leaving a messy and difficult clean-up job.<br /><br />* With the pump and filter on, add the appropriate amount of winter shock around the edges of the pool. Wait an hour, then add winter algaecide. Keep the pump and filter on for another hour.<br /><br />* If you completely cover and close your pool, drain it to just below the return water lines. Also, drain your equipment and then add pool-winterizing anti-freeze to pipes and equipment. In colder climates, it may be advisable to remove the pump and filter, and store them in an enclosed structure. Consult your local BioGuard dealer for specific instructions.<br /><br />* Finally, cover your pool to protect from winter winds, leaves, dirt and debris.<br /><br />For more information, visit <a href="http://www.BioGuard.com">www.BioGuard.com</a> or visit your local BioGuard dealer.Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-50033777829586324202009-09-24T09:22:00.000-07:002009-09-24T09:28:07.987-07:00Accessorize Your Bathroom on a Budget(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - Decorating a bathroom on a budget is a lot like updating a wardrobe on a budget. Work with what you have, and use accessories to update and add the "wow" factor.<br /><br />In the bathroom, accessorizing can even include bathroom sink faucets. "With a pre-assembled drain assembly such as Speed Connect, a new faucet is easier to add than a new coat of paint," says Gray Uhl, design director for American Standard. "Even better, top performing lifetime finishes and drip-free, solid brass faucets start as low as $100."<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh37joz16HFI0BfeO8hn8U-CwHbc0JVFEJ3OuzuHDAYTSYB_RSUYUsCQKij7dHfd2U8SogpCTA_Cqc0NnBiOJlxgxnxc2K4LnbeBn6fu_5iNYlhX7Ql8VLdFNquTu_kGGPha7-pzfosSutJ/s1600-h/accesories-bathroom.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 305px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh37joz16HFI0BfeO8hn8U-CwHbc0JVFEJ3OuzuHDAYTSYB_RSUYUsCQKij7dHfd2U8SogpCTA_Cqc0NnBiOJlxgxnxc2K4LnbeBn6fu_5iNYlhX7Ql8VLdFNquTu_kGGPha7-pzfosSutJ/s400/accesories-bathroom.jpg" border="0" alt="Accesories"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385071403023616514" /></a><br />Trend No. 1: Warmer Finishes. Special finishes in warmer tones such as satin nickel, oil-rubbed bronze and blackened bronze are currently popular in hardware and faucets, coordinating well with creams and browns in linens and wall décor. "Matte black finish is the proverbial height of fashion for faucets and accessories right now," says Leslie Clagett on her blog, kbculture.blogspot.com.<br /><br />Trend No. 2: American Minimalism. "Styles such as the Moments, Copeland and Princeton faucet collections echo the same geometric lines and styling familiar in European contemporary design, but warmer and softer," says Uhl. "American minimalist faucets and accessories look best when paired with warmer tones and rich wood surfaces in cabinets and bathroom furniture." Uhl notes that an easy way to get the look is with a design-matched collection such as Tropic, which includes furniture, faucets and fixtures.<br /><br />Trend No. 3: Escape. Turn even a small bathroom into a spa experience with a serene, monochromatic look and plant oils that create a soothing aroma. Asian-inspired design such as the Green Tea bathroom sink faucet completes the look, with the added benefit of a discrete pull-out spout, which makes it easy to rinse the sink or wash delicate clothing items or one's hair.<br /><br />Trend No. 4: The Responsible Bathroom. Look for the WaterSense label on new bathroom faucets. The WaterSense label is an assurance that water use will be reduced by 30 percent or more, without sacrificing performance. Replacing three older faucets with three WaterSense-labeled faucets can save almost $500 and 74,000 gallons of water per year.<br /><br />Style Trend No. 5: You. Most importantly, don't be afraid to be yourself. Bathrooms are personal spaces, so personal statements work well, including tasteful humor. After all, if you can't be yourself in the bathroom, where can you be yourself?Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-23713744885229489372009-09-17T09:56:00.000-07:002009-09-17T10:21:27.816-07:00Mastering the Alaska Home Heating Test(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - If a wall-hung boiler can heat a home in Alaska problem-free for 10 winters, then it can heat a home anywhere, according to mechanical contractor Mike La Fay.<br /><br />La Fay, owner of Meadow Lakes Supply in Wasilla, Alaska, installed his first Baxi Luna modulating wall-hung boiler in early 2000. Since then, he has installed more than 100 of these high efficiency, eco-friendly heating appliances in homes throughout Matanuska Susitna County, which is a 50-minute drive north-east from Anchorage.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU3quliJGd3sGOaXBJgd_CNfwpFcXGIY0U0F1CJQfW_GYWL0e_toBHxLHdjvVVM4ftv6ANeMnpnC5xKaHPGeET3lqCZXd65ew_7W97rIZNNFznFHCeDTrLqDNuyFoKzzq3XIPHM3aiL2v_/s1600-h/house-alaska-winter.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 262px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU3quliJGd3sGOaXBJgd_CNfwpFcXGIY0U0F1CJQfW_GYWL0e_toBHxLHdjvVVM4ftv6ANeMnpnC5xKaHPGeET3lqCZXd65ew_7W97rIZNNFznFHCeDTrLqDNuyFoKzzq3XIPHM3aiL2v_/s400/house-alaska-winter.jpg" border="0" alt="Alaska winter"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382487564709131570" /></a><br />"It can be 30 below zero here for three weeks straight, so a reliable heating appliance is essential for both home comfort and survival," La Fay says. "I have not experienced any significant problem with Baxi Luna performance. With Gensco, the exclusive Baxi distributor in Alaska stocking parts and accessories, I am really looking forward to my second decade as a Baxi contractor."<br /><br />Gensco is a leading wholesale distributor of heating supplies and equipment, selling only to qualified contractors trade in Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana since 1947. More recently, Gensco supplied 250 Baxi Luna boilers for an award-winning community redevelopment of Seattle Housing Authority, which reported 37 percent energy use savings over another hydronic heating system.<br /><br />"My neighborhood just got natural gas recently, so I now have a Baxi Luna heating our family home and my shop. Our former oil fuel bill was up to $500 a month, and now we are spending around $150 for gas," La Fay notes. "You simply can't get better than that -- saving lots of money while knowing your heating system will withstand the coldest challenges of our winter."<br /><br />Baxi is one of Europe's largest heating products manufacturer and has been making leading wall-hung boilers since the late 1960s. The firm's Bassano, Italy, plant has been producing Baxi Luna wallhung heating since it opened in 1978 and now makes 4,000 boilers a day for export to 70 countries, including the United States. Baxi heat exchangers are stainless steel and bear the ASME H-Stamp.<br /><br />"I can recommend this appliance to homeowners with confidence, knowing it has a proven Alaska track record for quality, safety and environmental performance," says La Fay, who does ongoing maintenance of his installations and remains committed to learning more about the product. "I have learned a lot from a Baxi Luna training and contractor-certification CD-ROM. It is a great tool for a contractor located in Alaska."<br /><br />To learn more about proven Baxi energy-efficient, eco-friendly heating solutions, including modulating, condensing or near-condensing boilers (in either combination central heating and domestic hot water mode, or heating-only), visit <a href="http://www.wallhungboilers.com">www.wallhungboilers.com</a>Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-56178688462670005942009-09-15T10:09:00.000-07:002009-09-15T10:18:13.849-07:00Heated Stairs Step Up Safety, Convenience(<a href="http://www.newsusa.com/">NewsUSA</a>) - Anyone who has lived with snow knows that stairs present a unique challenge. They ice up quickly, becoming slippery and dangerous. Outdoor stairs, which often come in irregular sizes, can be difficult to shovel, especially for senior citizens.<br /><br />And even if you remove snow, your stairs may still ice up. Melting snow from the roof often falls on stairs leading up to a doorstep, creating dangerous ice layers. Using sand or rock salt is hardly an ideal situation. Many Americans are not physically able to carry heavy bags. When the salt dissolves, it poses a threat to local flora and fauna.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicL5_ZXTLBwQX_Kj_ww4X6akRQR7tjVtL3dHnlb7fAY_4oFpTSNTE8fph0PHHSCMPM61tMw9sYIfDxcKr6IeHsqHfBKOBXwooHNamRZz0YxnAXJj8nLXJpH1uYn4tzt71bcZ5hU6xdppeK/s1600-h/heated-step.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 269px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicL5_ZXTLBwQX_Kj_ww4X6akRQR7tjVtL3dHnlb7fAY_4oFpTSNTE8fph0PHHSCMPM61tMw9sYIfDxcKr6IeHsqHfBKOBXwooHNamRZz0YxnAXJj8nLXJpH1uYn4tzt71bcZ5hU6xdppeK/s400/heated-step.jpg" border="0" alt="Heated stair"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381744590968426050" /></a><br />Companies and schools with large facilities have taken a unique approach to ensuring safer stairs in wintery weather -- instead of trying to remove snow after it falls, they're using a product that melts snow before it has a chance to build up.<br /><br />At age 15, Hillel Glazer decided he no longer wanted to shovel snow, so he disassembled a heating pad and combined it with a doormat, promptly shorting out the electricity in his parents' home. As an adult -- and with the help of engineers -- Glazer returned to his original snow-melting mat idea.<br /><br />Today, Glazer's company, HeatTrak, makes heated mats that keep walkways clear of snow. Long used by large commercial facilities, HeatTrak's Stair Mats are now available to homeowners.<br /><br />Built with weatherproof, ribbed carpet, HeatTrak Residential Stair Mats are durable enough to be left outside for the entire winter. The mats plug into standard outlets and generate enough heat to melt snow at a rate of two inches per hour. If homeowners turn the mats on when snow first begins to fall, snowflakes will dissolve as soon as they hit the mats, leaving slip-free stairs.<br /><br />HeatTrak Stair Mats are safe to own and operate. Each mat has a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) that instantly shuts off the mat when it senses a current leak. HeatTrak products are sold throughout the United States, Canada and Europe.<br /><br />For more information, visit <a href="http://www.heattrak.com">www.heattrak.com</a>Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-7138232816344447322009-09-07T07:50:00.000-07:002009-09-07T07:54:54.536-07:00If Mahogany Entry Doors Could TalkIf only my doors could talk, I wonder what they would suggest I do to them. My house is currently under renovation and everything that needs to be done has been ironed out except the door aspect.<br />See, the root of this renovation project happens to be my termite infested custom made entry doors. I don’t know if I’m the one at fault or the company that installed these doors five years ago; yes, so recent that’s why I’m so distraught with the idea of having to spend again on new doors.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj0lV9omJ58iFzh4bqWnx0r24Emq85whavrYAgDlmGaRyfEdKyYqzBRjtpgc4vHKWHKeEQRaemenjzPU6BVdvU_p0gpO2s80VoMji0aMfPQAx6ZhUdRcOlyuk4pSZGqHiIoreOrcqi45y2/s1600-h/mahogany-door.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 297px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj0lV9omJ58iFzh4bqWnx0r24Emq85whavrYAgDlmGaRyfEdKyYqzBRjtpgc4vHKWHKeEQRaemenjzPU6BVdvU_p0gpO2s80VoMji0aMfPQAx6ZhUdRcOlyuk4pSZGqHiIoreOrcqi45y2/s400/mahogany-door.jpg" border="0" alt="Mahogany door"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378738998593457842" /></a><br />Anyway, my mother suggested Mahogany double entry doors are the perfect choice and the reason of which I really don’t know. She said properly finished Mahogany exterior doors will keep the termites away. Does that mean the company that made my first custom doors did not apply the proper finishing? Somehow mom’s statement made me feel vindicated as I realized I’m not to be blamed for what had befell my doors, but then again I’m the one spending for the Mahogany entry doors so there’s no reason to celebrate.<br /><br />‘Why, there is, dear! You have every reason to celebrate,” mom said upon hearing my murmur. She went on to say that a friend of hers runs a company that offers fabulous custom made American Red Oak doors, exterior French panel doors, exterior iron insulated doors, and mesmerizing Mahogany interior doors that exude that quaint appeal of Victorian architecture.<br /><br />Mom speaks to me in vague language all the time. What do I know about architecture and I have zero knowledge about Victoria or is it Victory? Right now, all I want are affordable new entry doors regardless if they’re Mahogany or from Mrs. Victoria’s architecture. Mom said she’ll talk to her friend who offers huge discounts on regular clients and amigas so she’s positive she can get me a great deal.<br /><br /><br />Stayed at mom’s house for a month and then I returned home to see what has become of my place. As I pulled up in the driveway, I had my eyes fixed on the entry doors which Mom labeled Murano Brazilian Mahogany. Whatever that meant, it was beautiful and very classy. I told mom I’ll go check inside the house but she told me to stop and say hello to the doors first because if only they could talk, they’d offer me a grand welcome.<br /><br />For additional information, click this site on <a href="http://www.doors4you.com/">Mahogany interior doors</a>.Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9212980727989762819.post-50756618697688701492009-09-07T07:40:00.000-07:002015-05-06T18:19:53.521-07:00Wood Stove Heating Basics<h2>
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Wood stoves are commonly use in almost all American households. </span></h2>
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It is utilized for generating heat and it gives comfort. It is also commonly used for cooking food. The concept of the wood stove was patterned from the fireplace. During the old days, most American households make use of the fireplace to provide heat to their homes.<br />
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It was also widely used in the preparation and cooking of meals. With the help of the famous Benjamin Franklin, the first stove was invented. It was made up of cast iron.<br />
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It had two doors with a pot belly that is large. It operates by burning wood which was inserted in the pot belly of the stove. With the help of the two doors the fire and also the draft can be controlled.<br />
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These stoves are very efficient but at the same time it possesses some risk. The usage of these stoves can cause harm to its users and at the same time very dangerous to the health. The utilization of chemically treated wood for burning releases carcinogens to the air.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZv629iI4GB97gwQ6PFEjggFqRJTYYk7bjmrMEYeQhBn_2LxG8BpfbEgcWjuwUGyfzm2VG12OQLN083sf-M2A31HD_AKUIB62ns5sSFUAm5J1yosgbihH4wiR3R5maDybsflAUqzOGdFs1/s1600-h/wood_stove.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="Old wood stove" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZv629iI4GB97gwQ6PFEjggFqRJTYYk7bjmrMEYeQhBn_2LxG8BpfbEgcWjuwUGyfzm2VG12OQLN083sf-M2A31HD_AKUIB62ns5sSFUAm5J1yosgbihH4wiR3R5maDybsflAUqzOGdFs1/s400/wood_stove.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378736630774197474" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 223px;" /></a><br />
These carcinogens are very harmful are very dangerous to the immune system especially when inhaled. This will also result to respiratory problems and can also cause eye irritation to its users.<br />
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With the help of modern technology latest models of wood stoves were later developed. These stoves are very efficient compared to its predecessor and less harmful.<br />
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And with the growing health hazards cause by the utilization of these wood burning stoves, laws and regulations were imposed by the American Government with the Agency on Environment Protection on the lead.<br />
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The agency checks the manufactures products if it passes the safety and health regulations before it is distributed in the market.<br />
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It will be a violation against the law if the manufacturers of these stoves will sell these in the market without the certification from the agency. To find out further information about wood stoves, visit: <span style="font-style: italic;"><a href="http://ibuywoodstoves.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ibuywoodstoves.com</a></span>Héctor H. Zorrillahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04169401514595330967noreply@blogger.com0