• new materials for kitchen and bath

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    While most of these lend themselves more to a modern kitchen or bath, it's certainly possible to take advantage of advances in materials science in a more traditional remodel as well. For example, I've seen several new Craftsman kitchens using pre-cast and cast-on-site concrete for countertops, and what looks industrial in a modern setting can look warm and complementary in a classic wooden kitchen. Further, now that dyes and inclusions can be added to concrete to give it a bit more character, it's a much more flexible product than it was when it first became popular as a countertop material several years ago.

    Recycled glass and wood, blocks of pressed fibers, resins and other manufactured materials and even more arcane products are being repurposed as countertop, tile, flooring and more. Take a look at a few products and manufacturers I've discovered in the last few months:

    tile / glass / stone

    • Una Terra sells interesting, unique tiles made all over the world – from Italian specialty glass mosaics to American-made stone, they've got some really neat stuff (as well as high-resolution PDFs so you can see the tile up close, something I wish more vendors offered).
    • Marazzi sells porcelain, glass, ceramic and metal-glaz tiles in a small range of basic shades and tones.
    • Bisazza is the American vendor for a large Italian glass and porcelain mosaic tilemaker.
    • Hakatai are my favorite American tilemakers & sellers. Based in Oregon, they produce hundreds of mosaic tiles in glass and other materials for pools, walls, counters, floors, murals and any other flat surface you can imagine. Well, almost.
    • Sonoma Cast Stone sells concrete, kitchen and bath surrounds, tiles & pavers and other items and materials in a wide array of colors.
    • Concrete Network is not a seller, but rather a sourcing site for folks looking for a concrete contractor. The website also includes a big gallery of photos of concrete in use – as countertops, fireplace surrounds, flooring, furniture, sinks and more.
    • IceStone is made from recycled glass and concrete, and comes in a 24-standard color palette with an infinite number of custom options.

    wood

    • Ebony & Co sell hardwood, antique / salvaged, old-growth pine and bespoke wooden parquetry floors in a huge range of woods and finishes. They are also one of the few wood floring vendors who sell specific grades to be used in conjunction with underfloor heating installations.
    • Bamboo Hardwoods has sold sheets of pressed bamboo lumber for flooring, furniture and other products since 1995. They also have a line of custom bamboo cabinetry for kitchen & bath.
    • Teragren sells bamboo flooring, panels designed for cabinetry and furniture, and veneers.
    • Windfall Lumber sells "sustainably harvested wood products," including flooring, mouldings, countertops, decking and whole timbers.
    • New York City's Habitus sells tile, stone, cement, Japanese stucco, porcelain and more, but what they are known for are their cork products: mosaic tiles, floor and wall panels, fabrics, and more. High resolution PDFs are available for download.
    • Treefrog makes and sells exotic wood laminates in interesting patterns and textures
    • Plyboo is a flexible plywood made from bamboo, and is often used for cabinetry and furnituremaking.

    other stuff

    • Yemm & Hart makes decorative polyethylene sheeting and flooring made from recycled tires, just like the stuff that was under the monkey bars when you were a kid – but colorful, stronger, and it won't break up and track all over the place.
    • Lumicor seems all over the news lately. The product is essentially a type of architectural resin which is strong enough to be used as structural material and interesting enough to be decorative. It can be cast thick or thin, and is sometimes used for countertop and tabletop material. It is often cast with various types of fibers embedded, and can be made in an enormous range of colors, textures and opacities. Their portfolio shows several dozen different uses – in homes, retail settings, office space and elsewhere.
    • Paperstone is what it sounds like: a solid surface material, great for countertops, made from recycled paper that has been transformed under enormous pressure.
    • Richlite is another popular product made from a paper fiber-based composite. It was originally distributed as a surface for commercial kitchens and baths in the 1950s, but is enjoying a resurgence as a domestic surface. It is also used for skateboard parks, of all things! It's generally considered a green alternative to Corian and manufactured granite, as it can very closely resemble those materials.
    • Brooklyn's Bettencourt Green Building Supplies sells many of these items, including Richlite, Paperstone, Plyboo bamboo butcherblock, Durapalm coconut flooring, cork, Kirei board, wheatboard and lots more.

    Additionally, Green Home Guide, which can usually be counted on for good and unbiased advice on building materials, has a guide to choosing countertop material; they also have a buyers' guide to green flooring materials, which should give you some general budget information.

    Finally, don't discount the reliable standbys: Corian kitchen worktops are affordable, last forever, quick to fab and install, and look absolutely fantastic. Many contractors are happy to use something tried and true, rather than playing with new materials they've never encountered before. In the UK, we strongly recommend Unique Fabrications in Milton Keynes, who can take on any job, from complex industrial and commercial spaces to residential kitchens and baths.

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  • Creative Ways to Make Your Home Spacious and Brighter

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    Imagine what it would be like to have a spacious and bright home — the perfect environment for relaxation, productivity, and entertainment. Creating such an atmosphere can be easier than you might think. But before you start making changes, consider your lifestyle and how you want to use the space. In the US, the average person spends 70–90% of their time indoors, so making sure your home is comfortable and inviting should be a top priority. And especially in places such as apartments and small homes, it can be even more necessary to make the most of what you have. 

    Before you know it, you'll have a cozy and inviting space that looks like something out of your dreams. And who knows, you might find something new and unexpected to add to the room's overall atmosphere.

    Here are some creative ways to make your home more spacious and brighter.

    1. Install Mirrors

    Adding a few strategically-placed mirrors is an easy, cost-effective way to make any room appear larger. Mirrors also reflect light, making them great for brightening up dark corners and adding a little bit of sparkle to your home. They create optical illusions and provide a unique focal point in your space.

    Now while you're at it, don't forget to liven up the walls with eye-catching wall art. But what about the clutter and stuff you have collected over the years? That brings us to the next point. 

    1. Declutter

    Nothing makes a space feel more cramped and uninviting than clutter. Whether it's an overflowing closet or a bunch of knickknacks that don't have a home, having too much stuff lying around can make it feel like there's no room to breathe. Take some time to get rid of anything you don't need or use anymore. Not only will it free up space, but it can also help to clear your mind and make the room feel lighter and airier. And in such a situation, you can turn to a storage facility and store your excess items. Due to the shortage of space, residents in Louisiana are increasingly opting for storage units and pod rentals to store their items.

    We recommend StrongPoint Self Storage as a reliable storage facility that provides the best solution to store your extra stuff. Especially for residents in Lake Charles or Lafayette, undoubtedly, they are the best storage option. They offer climate-controlled storage units with 24/7 access, making it easier to store and access your belongings when needed. If you're a nearby resident seeking a storage unit near you, call them or look up the keywords storage units Lake Charles for the best deal.

    1. Add Natural Accents

    Now that you have decluttered the space, it's time to add some natural elements that can make your home look and feel more inviting. Bring in plants for a pop of color and to bring in some nature vibes. Adding a few houseplants or even an indoor herb garden can add life to the room and help purify the air, creating a healthier environment for your family. Try adding a few pieces of natural wood furniture, such as a dining table or side table, which can add warmth and depth to the room. The more realistic elements you can add, the more expansive and inviting the space will feel. And as a rule of thumb, incorporate enough texture through different materials and art pieces to create a sense of depth in the room.

    1. Let in Natural light

    Next, let's talk about lighting. Natural light can do wonders for brightening up a space and making it feel more open and inviting. If you have windows, keep them open during the day so that natural light can stream into the room. You can also hang lighter window treatments or even add some skylights to allow in more light. Try to use brighter bulbs for your overhead lighting, and don't forget to add accent lights for a softer, more inviting atmosphere. Another reason to love natural light – it's free! And in the long run, it will help you save on your energy bill. 

    1. Create Zones

    So far, our focus has been on creating a more open and spacious feel for your home. But don't forget to create different “zones” in your space. You can always use furniture, rugs, and art pieces to separate a room into different areas. For example, you might place a rug in the center of the living room for a cozy seating area or put up a bookshelf to divide the kitchen from the dining area. This will help to break up the space and make it feel more organized. Furthermore, defining different areas in your home can help to make it feel less cluttered and provide a more pleasing aesthetic overall. Making your space look and feel more inviting is worth every effort.

    1. Experiment or Rearrange

    The more you experiment with rearranging and reorganizing your space, the better you'll get at creating a more inviting atmosphere. Repositioning furniture can open up a room and make it feel more prominent than before while also allowing you to get creative with your decor. Don't be afraid to move your furniture around and switch up the layout occasionally. This will help to keep your home looking fresh and new and will help to prevent it from feeling stale and boring. In addition, rearranging your furniture can be a great way to make the most of your space and create a more organized, spacious atmosphere in your home. And, of course, it's always fun to experiment with different ways of arranging furniture! It might take some trial and error, but eventually, you'll get a better sense of what works for your particular space and style. 

    1. Add a Personal Touch

    To finish off, make sure to add those personal touches. This could be anything from framed family photos, souvenirs from your travels, or art pieces that have a special meaning to you. These items will make your home feel unique and inviting, giving it a sense of warmth and personality. And don't forget about adding fun accents like pillows, throws, and plants — these small details can impact a room.

    Final Words

    Once you get the hang of it, creating an inviting atmosphere in your home can be an easy and enjoyable task. Keep experimenting with different decor pieces, colors, and textures, and don't be afraid to rearrange your space occasionally. And, of course, don't forget to add those personal touches that will make your home feel like it's truly yours. With these tips, you'll be able to create an inviting home in no time!

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  • How Long Does A Concrete Septic Tank Last?

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    Septic tanks come in various materials, but concrete is often the best choice for durability and longevity. A concrete septic tank can last for many years with proper care, but there are a few things you can do to help ensure its longevity. 

    Make sure to have your tank pumped and cleaned regularly, and avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper and human waste down the drain. If you take good care of your concrete septic tank, it will serve you well for many years.

    What is a concrete septic tank?

    A concrete septic tank is an underground storage tank for wastewater. It is made of concrete or other sturdy materials and is often covered with earth. This kind of tank is an alternative to metal or fiberglass septic tanks, often used in the US.

    Why is Concrete Septic Tank Popular?

    Concrete septic tanks are popular because they are durable and can last for many years. They are also less likely to rust or corrode, making them more reliable than metal or fiberglass tanks.

    How Long Does Concrete Septic Tank Last?

    Concrete septic tanks can last for many years if they are correctly maintained. It is essential to routinely inspect the tank and the surrounding area for signs of damage or wear.

    If any repairs are needed, they should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

    The average lifespan of a concrete septic tank is about 30- 40 years, while some will last longer. The actual lifespan of the septic tank depends on various factors, such as how often it is used and maintained.

    If your home is connected to the public sewage system, you may need to replace your concrete septic tank after 30 years.

    Concrete septic tanks are more durable than metal or fiberglass septic tanks. However, it is important to inspect your tank regularly for signs of damage.

    It is best to replace the tank once it begins showing signs of wear and tear. A new concrete septic tank does not need insulation as you would have in your house.

    However, it may be helpful to install insulation if the tank is outdoors in an icy region.

    Above-ground septic tanks made of concrete are not shared outside of the US, but they are becoming more popular as people become aware of their benefits.

    They can be used alongside metal or fiberglass tanks and provide several significant advantages. They are sturdier and more durable, making them a better choice for homes in remote areas where weather exposure is high.

    Many people also prefer concrete aesthetics over other materials such as metal or fiberglass.

     Advantages of a Concrete Septic Tank

    Below are the advantages of choosing a concrete septic tank over other styles:

    • 1. Strong and Durable

    A concrete septic tank is a popular choice for wastewater storage because it is strong and durable. With proper care, it can last for many years, making it a more reliable option than metal or fiberglass tanks.

    • 2. Prevents Corrosion

    Concrete tanks are resistant to Corrosion, making it easier to prevent leaks and cracks.

    • 3. Aesthetically Pleasing

    Concrete septic tanks are an aesthetically pleasing choice for your home. They can be used as part of the landscaping, making them more appealing than metal or fiberglass tanks.

    One can find concrete septic tanks in a variety of neutral colors. This makes concrete septic tanks easy to match your home's exterior design scheme and landscaping.

    Many people also prefer to install a concrete tank instead of using a metal or fiberglass tank.

    • 4. Prevents Odors from Escaping

    Concrete tanks prevent odors from escaping, which is a common issue with metal and fiberglass tanks. Concrete septic tanks can improve your property's appeal and value in regions where odor control is essential.

    This is especially true in communities with strict ordinances or covenants that require homes to have a certain number of working sewage systems.

    • 5. Easier to Use and Service

    Concrete tanks are easier to use and service than metal or fiberglass tanks, making them a better choice for those who do not have much experience with septic tank maintenance.

    Concrete septic tanks can provide many years of reliable performance with proper care.

    • 6. Prevents Poisoning of Wells

    Concrete tanks prevent harmful products from seeping into your well, which can cause it to become poisoned. This is more of an issue with metal storage tanks because the corrosive materials they contain can leach into your well and contaminate it.

    • 7. Early Detection of Problems

    With proper care, concrete tanks can last 30-40 years. However, this lifespan may vary with how often the tank is used and properly maintained.

    Since concrete septic tanks are more durable than metal or fiberglass tanks, you can inspect your tank regularly without fear of damaging it. It is essential to examine your tank for cracks or leaks that could lead to significant problems.

    • 8. Resistant to Corrosion and Rust

    Concrete septic tanks are resistant to corrosion and rust. This means that they will not corrode or rust over time, which could cause damage to the tank.

    • 9. Less Likely to Leak

    Concrete septic tanks are less likely to leak than plastic septic tanks. If a concrete tank does leak, it is easy to repair.

    • 10. Less Likely to Freeze

    Concrete septic tanks are less likely to freeze in cold weather climates. This is because concrete retains heat better than plastic. They are better equipped to withstand freezing temperatures than metal tanks, suitable for cold climates.

    How to take care of your concrete septic tank

    If you have a concrete septic tank, there are a few things you need to do to keep it in good condition. Here are some tips:

    1. Inspect your tank regularly for cracks or leaks.
    2. Keep the tank free of debris and vegetation.
    3. Avoid driving over the tank or putting heavy objects on top of it.
    4. Have the tank pumped regularly (at least every 2-3 years).
    5. Make sure the wastewater treatment system is properly functioning.
    6. If you are unsure, hire a professional septic tank cleaning company to inspect the tank every few months.
    7. If you hear gurgling sounds coming from your tank, call for help immediately!
    8. Keep up with all necessary tank maintenance and repairs.
    9. If you smell sewage or other odors coming from the tank, contact a professional immediately.

    If you have a concrete septic tank, it is important to keep it in good condition by performing regular inspections and pumping. Otherwise, your tank may begin to deteriorate quickly and cause problems with the wastewater treatment system or damage the landscaping around your home.

    FAQs about concrete septic tanks

    Many people always have some questions about concrete septic tanks. Here are a few of the most common ones:

    • What is the life expectancy of a concrete septic tank?

    A: A concrete septic tank should last 25 to 50 years. However, it is important to maintain and clean the tank regularly to ensure it lasts as long as possible.

    • How big should a septic tank be?

    A: The size of the tank will depend on how many people are in the household. The average household is about two people, so ideally, you need a 200-gallon septic tank. Bigger is much better when it comes to septic tanks!

    • Is it possible to install a concrete septic tank instead of a traditional tank?

    A: Yes! The average cost of installing a concrete septic tank is about $1,000 less than the average traditional tank. And while the initial price tag may be higher, you will save money in the long run because concrete tanks last much longer.

    Conclusion

    Concrete septic tanks may be a bit pricier than traditional ones, but they are worth it in the long term. Concrete is much more durable and can last up to 50 years (depending on how well you take care of them).

    For those who live in areas with extreme climates or high precipitation rates, concrete tanks will also help prevent further damage due to water infiltration.

    If you need any advice about installing your tank or if you want someone else to install it for you, contact our team! We offer affordable pricing options that include installation services to provide all aspects of this service under one roof.

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  • Effective Ways to Future-Proof Your Living Space

    Do you ever feel as though you are constantly improving your home? If you are always decorating, changing things, installing upgrades, and refurbing tired spaces then you certainly aren’t alone. We spend a lot of time in our homes, and we want them to be at their best. Most of us are always seeking ways to make our homes more efficient, more beautiful, and more comfortable. We’re looking for ways to make them more sustainable, to show off our personality and to have a home that we are proud of. 

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    This is completely normal, and to an extent, you’ll probably always want to make small changes and improvements. But you should try your best to future-proof your home, at least when it comes to the bigger elements. A future-proof living space is safe, sustainable, cost-effective, and hardwearing. Yes, you’ll probably always want to paint walls and add accessories, but with a future-proof base to work from, you’ll save money and time, and your home will always be ready to show off to guests. 

    Invest in Good Quality Flooring

    Good quality flooring is essential. It’s a big part of the décor in your living space, taking up a lot of the available area, so you want it to look good. But it also takes a lot of footfall over the years, not to mention spillages, drops, trips and other damage. Poor quality flooring is hard and expensive to look after, and with everything the floor in a family space has to cope with, it won’t last. Investing in a hardwood floor can be a great idea if you are looking for hardwearing flooring that will last the test of time. Even better, you can quickly accessorise a laminate floor with a trendy rug if you are looking to make a quick, inexpensive change. 

    Get into Good Cleaning Habits

    Investing in good quality is often the best way to make sure your décor, furnishings, and appliances last for as long as possible. But this is only true if you look after them. Get into good cleaning and maintenance routines and your home will look good and work well for much longer. 

    Always Consider the Future

    Whenever you update your living space, whether it’s a change to the décor, a new sofa, or a bigger refurb, always do it with the future in mind. Think about whether these changes will still suit your lifestyle and family in 10 years, considering your age, and mobility, as well as your future plans.

    Prioritise

    When it comes to future proofing, don’t worry about things like accessories and soft furnishings, which can be changed easily. Instead, prioritise things like flooring, heating, windows, and important pieces of furniture which contribute to your safety and quality of life. These are the things that need to last, not those finishing touches that make a home. 

    Keep it Simple

    When it comes to décor, the best way to future-proof is to keep things simple, avoiding trends and fashions, and sticking to plain, light colours that work with different seasons, accessories and styles. Keep your walls plain and you can easily change things up with the addition of some colourful accessories. Choose bold wallpapers and designs, and suddenly you are very limited and have to make huge changes every time you want something different. 

    Perhaps the best ways to future-proof your living space are to avoid trends and to make changes mindfully. Always think about the future before you make any changes, but especially bigger, more expensive ones. 

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  • How To Effectively Clean Hardwood Floors 

    image provided by Yes! Air Conditioning & Plumbing – hvac technician

    Hardwood floors are a great addition to any home. It is hard to beat the look and feel of natural wood in your home. This type of flooring tends to feel warmer than artificial wood or tiles and will generally last much longer.

    However, you do need to take care of your hardwood flooring and that starts with effectively cleaning it regularly. 

    It should be noted that it doesn’t matter what style of hardwood flooring you have, whether it’s the latest herringbone flooring or simple planks, the cleaning routine is the same.

    Vacuum Regularly

    The first thing you should be doing is vacuuming your hardwood flooring regularly. Ideally, you should do this every day but in lower-traffic areas, 2-3 times a week will suffice.

    You will need a hardwood flooring attachment for your vacuum. This is effectively a soft nozzle that won’t leave light scratches on the wood as you clean. Make sure the nozzle is clean and not worn before you use it. 

    Using the power of a vacuum you’ll be able to get into all the crevices between the wooden pieces.

    Sweep Often

    Alongside vacuuming, you can sweep the hardwood floor. This can be done to deal with specific spills or instead of vacuuming some days. You will need to use a soft-headed brush as you don’t want to scratch the floor.

    An angles broom will also help you to sweep the floor faster, reducing the amount of time spent looking after your hardwood floor.

    The Cleaner

    Your next step is to invest in a quality hardwood cleaner. You can get this in spray form, allowing you to lightly spray the floor and then wipe it clean. It’s best to use a clean cloth that attracts the dirt and dust when doing this. 

    Spray cleaner is an effective approach to dealing with spills and other localized issues.

    If you wish to clean the entire hardwood floor you’re better off adding a little of the cleaner to a bucket of warm water and using a mop. It should be noted that hardwood flooring doesn’t like getting wet. 

    In other words, wring the mop out so that it is only damp when it comes into contact with the floor. Work your way methodically across the room to ensure every part of the floor has been lightly mopped.

    Sealing the Floor

    The best approach is to purchase a hardwood floor polish. This can then be applied to the floor in accordance with the instructions on the container. 

    For most, this means rubbing a little into the floor with one cloth and polishing it with another. You will need to work your way across the entire room but the good news is that this only needs doing a couple of times a year.

    The polish adds shine to the floor, it fills light scratches and helps to protect the floor against dirt and spills. With a little love and care your hardwood flooring will last for years!

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  • Types of Exterior Drainage Systems for Your Home

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    A recent study has shown that most of the structural damage that could happen in your home will be there because of poor drainage. This can be a costly home repair, so it is important to deploy preventive measures to help save you a lot of money to keep things safe.

    Your home is an important investment and you should work hard to add in the right type of drainage to keep things safe at all times. Let’s take a look at some of the different types of stainless steel trench drains for your home.

    Types of Drainage Systems

    Understanding the risks of water damage is important when choosing the right type of drainage for your home. Without the right drainage system, you may deal with a lot of issues around the home including:

    • Damage landscape
    • Loss of home value because of the water damage
    • Health risks because mold may grow in the basement
    • Basement leaks could flood into the home and cause property damage
    • Foundation cracks that will then compromise the house’s integrity

    With all of these issues in play, you need to do the right drainage to prevent the issue. Some of the best types of drainage systems that you may consider for the exterior of your home include:

    1. French Drain

    The first type of drain that you have is the French Drain. This is a simple perforated pipe that is first installed in a flat yard. The goal of this is to help drain away any water that is standing, which can keep the whole thing safe.

    To use this pipe, you will need to excavate a trench that can then slope away from the property before installing the pipe. Gravel or another porous material will be used to help fill in the trench before the trench is finally covered.

    When there is any standing water in place, it will need to follow the easiest escape route to move away. When this is in place, it will decide to seep down to the French tile and go in a direction away from the yard to keep your foundation safe.

    2. Footing Drain

    The second type of drain found outside your home would be a footing drain. This can be very effective when it comes to a water drainage system. A pipe will be installed around the perimeter of your foundation walls, usually level with the footing to make it easy to put together.

    This pipe is going to collect any of the water that would normally leak through the footing and into the basement through the foundation walls. Since the pipe is in place though, the water will be directed away from the home to keep things safe.

    Once the drain is in place, it needs to be covered up with some gravel, up to the surface of the soil, to help with the drainage.

    3. Gutter Drainage System

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    Another option that you can choose is the gutter drainage system. There is often water that comes from the roof of your home when it rains. Without the right gutter drainage system in place, it can cause a lot of damage and havoc that will happen because it will not drain out well.

    This is when you will need to use a gutter and a downspout system. It is responsible for helping drain away all the water that is on the roof so it goes away from the walls of your house to make sure that the water does not collect there.

    Without these in place, the rainwater will still fall off the home. Without a drain to help push it away though, the water falls right by the home. This may cause damage to the walls of the home and allows water to seep into the basement when it rains hard.

    The downspout drain needs to be set up to drain away all the roof water from the walls of the home. Your goal is to direct the water to a storm sewer or catch basin. The further away that you can do this, the better it is for your home.

    4. Grading Drainage

    The fourth type of drainage that you will see is known as grading drainage. This is a simple type of drain that will involve reworking the grading to slope it away from your home. You always want to keep the water from your home. If there is a slope into the home, this may allow the water into your foundation and basement.

    When you see this happening, you need to go through and do grading drainage to help make sure the water will be moved away from the home. You should have a contractor take a look at the landscaping you have in order to assess the gradient needed to move away the water.

    You may need to do some work with the landscaping to make this one happen. The right gradient needs to be severe enough in order to help move the water away from the home and into the storm sewer while still fitting into the building code. It is best to work with a professional rather than try to do it yourself.

    Deciding to Put New Drainage In Your Yard

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    Exterior drainage systems can be a great option to help protect your home. Water is something that we can’t prevent around the home, but without the right drainage, it will cause a lot of problems to the foundation and the basement of your home. The type of drainage that you will need outside of your home will depend on the type of landscaping you have.

    Most homes will need gutter drainage to help with the rain, but the rest could depend on the way your home is organized. If you have trouble with water getting into your home when it rains, consider some of the types of drainage that you may be able to use to keep your home safe. 

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  • Bathroom Remodeling Ideas to Increase Your Property Value

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    So, you’ve decided to approach remodeling as a way to increase the property value of your home. That’s the first step, and an excellent choice for any homeowner who wants to see a little return on their investment. The next step in that process is choosing which parts of your home to remodel and finding ideas that fit your budget, timeline, and aesthetic.

    If you do a quick search to look for ideas, you’ll find thousands of options, ranging from modest costs to millionaire budgets. You’ll probably want to narrow those options down a little, and the best way to that is to figure out where you’d like to start. Research shows that bathroom remodels are a surefire way to increase the value of your property.

    Below, we’ll talk about five great ideas for remodeling your bathroom, while shooting up your property value at the same time.

    #1 Did Someone Say Walk-in Showers?

    An updated or renovated shower can change the look of your bathroom entirely. Sure, you can always go with a fancy jet tub or the classic clawfoot tub for that vintage look, but if you’re looking for a direction, there’s nothing that can tick up the curb appeal of your bathroom as much as an updated walk-in shower. From waterfall showerheads and multi-directional water streams to heated floors and glass doors, a new walk-in shower can become a statement piece in your newly remodeled bathroom. 

    The materials you use are crucial, like polished chrome fixtures and durable glass, but the shower walls may be the most essential choice you’ll have to make. A dingy tile wall can make even the most enthusiastic buyer turn away. 

    If you go with a solid surface corner shower, on the other hand, you can cost-effectively transform your bathroom. These showers are made with materials generally associated with kitchen countertops. However, you can use this material on shower walls with great results. They’re nonporous, can be cleaned and refinished with ease, and look fantastic.

    #2 A Bathroom Counter that Shines

    Speaking of counters, your bathroom counter is another part of the bathroom that can affect your property value. Just like with shower walls, the materials you use are probably the most important decision you’ll have to make when considering this particular remodel. 

    Solid-surface countertops, which are designed to look like stone, have a high-end, beautiful look while remaining nonporous and easy to clean. A porcelain tiled counter is both cheaper and can be more durable than granite alternatives. Or you can go with quartz bathroom counters, which are designed to look like limestone or marble but are more durable. They’re also nonporous so they won’t absorb moisture and they’re easier to clean.  

    #3 Pull Up Those Old Tiles

    Some bathrooms have floors that are three decades old, stained and chipped, and that kind of damage or degradation can negatively affect your property value. There are plenty of options for remodeling your floors that can be both cost-effective and look great.

    Stained concrete floors, for instance, are an ideal option. A lot of the time, you can pull up those old tiles, and there will be a perfect concrete floor sitting right underneath it. A little polish and staining and your bathroom floors will look luxurious and expensive. Of course, concrete can be a little cold when stepping out of the shower, but that’s nothing a small bathroom rug can’t fix.

    #4 A Fresh Coat of Paint

    This may go without saying, but a fresh coat of paint can do wonders for any bathroom. It isn’t a complicated process, either, though it can be tricky. Choosing the right color scheme, the appropriate tools, and the best quality paints are paramount. When in doubt, go with neutrals. 

    Plus, the best thing about this option is that it’s very cost-effective, and you can do it yourself. 

    #5 When in Doubt, Go Green

    Energy efficiency and water conservation are so crucial in our society, and if you remodel your bathroom with that in mind, it can skyrocket the value of your home. Water-efficient toilets, showers, and sinks are perfect options for updating your bathroom and increasing the value of your property. These options not only decrease the amount of water you’re using; it can also lower your water bill. Any prospective buyer is going to see this as a great benefit and added value.  

    Remodeling is the Key to Increasing Property Value

    The options don’t stop there. There are so many ways to increase the value of your property by remodeling, and it is one of the best ways to guarantee a return on your investment. Your bathroom is the perfect place to start because it’s an integral part of your home.

    You can’t just wait for the housing market to swing your way. Relying on the ebb’s and flows of the market can be a waiting game nightmare. Instead of letting time determine the value of your home, fix it up. Change it. Spend a little on remodeling and renovation, and you’ll thank yourself later. And above all, make sure who you hire – whether it’s contractors in Olympia WA or elsewhere – has great recommendations & experience.

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  • Frank Lloyd Wright’s Ennis House is for sale!

    From Architectural Digest:

    Welcome to the Ennis House, one of the Los Angeles Hills' most legendary homes. At $23M, this Mayan revival Frank Lloyd Wright house has been featured in movies like 'Blade Runner' and is full of furniture designed by Wright himself. Join real estate agent Rayni Williams as she takes you on a tour of the entire house.

  • Arroyo’s Edge: Greene & Greene interiors 2012

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    a tour of six Greene and Greene-designed properties in Pasadena’s historic Park Place neighborhood
     
    This coming Earth Day, architecture buffs are in for a Greene and Greene (and green) treat. On Sunday, April 22, 2012, The Gamble House will present Arroyo’s Edge: Greene and Greene Interiors 2012, a rare opportunity to visit six privately-owned properties designed by Charles and Henry Greene between 1902 and 1915. Featuring acclaimed architectural features and design by the masters of the American Arts & Crafts movement, the five private homes and one private garden will be open for touring along Arroyo Terrace and North Grand Avenue in Pasadena, all within easy walking distance of The Gamble House.
     
    It has been twenty years since a “Greene and Greene Interiors” tour featured the interiors of houses in the historic Park Place neighborhood.  On April 22 from 12 noon to 5 p.m. (last entry 4 p.m.), this remarkably intact enclave of the Greenes’ work – once known as “Little Switzerland” for its woodsy, chalet-style structures – will once again be the focus of a tour to benefit The Gamble House, a National Historic Landmark designed by Greene and Greene in 1908 and operated by the University of Southern California School of Architecture as a public site since 1966.
     
    Thanks to the generosity of six property owners, the Arroyo’s Edge tour will feature: the Duncan-Irwin house(1906-08), the Mary Ranney house (1907), the F. W. Hawks house (1906), the Van Rossem-Neill house (1903-06), the Louise T. Halstead house (1905-15) and the James Culbertson garden (1902-14), and will give participants a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see Greene and Greene interiors that are rarely, if ever, opened to the public.
     
    tour details:
    date: Sunday April 22, 2012
    hours: noon – 5 pm (last entry at 4 pm)
    general admission: $85 per person; $50 for children under 12
    member admission: $75 per person (to join Friends of The Gamble House visit gamblehouse.org or call 626.783.3334 x16)
    Off-street parking is available to ticket holders. We regret that these private homes and gardens are not wheelchair accessible. Visitors should plan to wear sturdy walking shoes.
     
    proceeds benefit The Gamble House, a National Historic Landmark in Pasadena, CA
     
    about The Gamble House: Built in 1908, the Gamble House is the most complete and best-preserved example of the work of renowned Pasadena architects Charles and Henry Greene. The Gamble House is an internationally recognized National Historic Landmark in the style of the American Arts and Crafts movement. Owned by the City of Pasadena, the Gamble House is operated by the University of Southern California School of Architecture.
     
    The Gamble House is open for public, docent-led, one-hour tours Thursday – Sunday, noon – 3 pm, closed on national holidays. For more information, visit gamblehouse.org.

    photograph: Exterior detail from the Duncan-Irwin house (which is part of this tour). Photograph by Alexander Vertikoff.

  • Frank Lloyd Wright, cast in stone

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    Frank Lloyd Wright’s shingle, as it were: this is the cast concrete lettering (the etch marks, I am told, come from the form, which was chiseled) advertising FLW’s architectural and design practice in front of the office portion of his home and studio in Oak Park, Illinois.