Like so many things in life, the location is one of the most important aspects to consider when making any changes. Here are a couple of things to consider when you build your dream water garden:
1. Call Before You Dig
While this one seems obvious, its surprising the number of people who forget to call the appropriate utility companies about phone,gas and power lines, only to accidentally cut them. One simple phone call avoids all sorts of problems, ensuring that you wont have to worry about delays to your project and iritate your neighbours when their phone or electricity no longer works.
2. Made In the Shade
Consider the pattern of the sun and its impacts on shadows in your yard. Also, remember that the direction the sun crosses the sky will change between spring and fall. The angle of the sun will dictate what type of shade you need to create, and where to place your trees and water pond. Many plants require 6 hours of direct sunlight.
3. Regional Considerations
What type of weather and soil conditions can you expect in the area you live in? You may find that the type of soil will dictate the types of plants and trees you can use to create your backyard paradise.
4. Existing Structures
Keep in mind existing structures such as trees, fences and patios. Will your plan mean removing trees? Will the design of your artificial water garden compliment your existing back yard, or will further changes have to be made? These considerations may add to the cost of your project. Keep your neighbours informed of your plans. You may find that they are willing to share in the cost of removing that tree or help in rebuilding the new fence.
5. Hows It Flowin?
Spend time tracking the direction and intensity of water flows that plants need and intensity of that water flow. You may find that some parts of your yard recieve more water than others based on the flow of the water in your yard. You may find that there is a sloping effect in your yard. This will impact your vegetation. Also check for pools of water that gather in certain spots. Raising the level of parts of your yard will ensure that all of your yard recieves the same amount of water.
6. Drawing the line
Remember to respect property codes for your city and wishes of your neighbours. Having an envious neighbour is one thing, violating their rights is another. When in doubt, check it out.
7. Whats the Plan?
Keep the focus of your site in mind throughout all aspects of your yard. Are you building a barrier, an escape from the rest of the city or just looking to make your yard look better for the next owners? This should weight in on all of your decisions.
Before you build your back yard retreat, plan, plan, plan. Remember, there are several factors to consider and the above lucky 7 tips should help you make the perfect water garden yours.
Sunday, December 26, 2010
When and How to Mow Your New Lawn
New lawns require time to become established and set down a root system before they are mowed. If you’ve seeded your lawn, it may be as long as two months before it can be mowed. Sod, on the other hand, may need to be mowed within three weeks of being laid. Plugs, sprigs and stolons can take as much as six weeks to become firmly established. If you’ve seeded your lawn, all seeds must have germinated before you mow. Plugs, sprigs, stolons and sod must have roots firmly set before they’re mowed to prevent damage.
Mowing
• Never cut more than 1/3 of the grass height.
• Assure the lawn is completely dry before mowing to prevent damage.
• Check your mower’s instruction manual and set the mower to the proper height for new lawns.
• Keep your blades sharp for the best results. Dull or out of balance blades will cause you and your equipment to work harder.
• Mow at the highest recommended height and then mow again after a few days.
• Mow your lawn every four to five days if grass has grown adequately. Mowing too frequently will scalp a new lawn. Remember; only cut 1/3 of the grass height. Example: If your grass is three inches high, only cut one inch. This will keep your lawn lush, healthy and well-groomed.
Mowing
• Never cut more than 1/3 of the grass height.
• Assure the lawn is completely dry before mowing to prevent damage.
• Check your mower’s instruction manual and set the mower to the proper height for new lawns.
• Keep your blades sharp for the best results. Dull or out of balance blades will cause you and your equipment to work harder.
• Mow at the highest recommended height and then mow again after a few days.
• Mow your lawn every four to five days if grass has grown adequately. Mowing too frequently will scalp a new lawn. Remember; only cut 1/3 of the grass height. Example: If your grass is three inches high, only cut one inch. This will keep your lawn lush, healthy and well-groomed.
A Guide To Woodworking Plans
Woodworking plans are an essential component of any project. Wood working patterns and scroll saw patterns are needed to plan a project and create accents in your piece. Good plans give step by step instructions, diagrams and illustrations to guide you through from start to finish. You can buy plans, find them for free on the internet or make your own plan.
Finding Woodworking Plans
Free woodworking patterns can be found on the internet. Many are free, but others need to be purchased. You can search for general plans or for specific projects. Patterns are available for everything from a simple box or bird feeder to elaborate furniture projects. Several websites offer plans for making children’s toys and decorative items. Enter the project you are looking for in your favourite search engine or just enter free woodworking plans.
There are books available that are devoted to wood working patterns. You can find these at book stores, on the internet or in your local library. Often, woodworking magazines will contain plans for a wide variety of projects. Purchase a few of these at your local news stand. After you have found one you like best, you may decide to subscribe and receive new plans month after month.
If you are new to woodworking, it’s best to start of with a simple pattern. This will help you learn to read and follow the plans. As your skills increase, you can move on to more difficult projects. Start off with a simple toy or bird feeder before attempting to make a dining room set. Look for detailed and thorough plans to help you create your project.
Good plans include detailed instructions. The instructions should take you step by step through the entire project. Look for plans that have detailed diagrams as well as illustrations of the project at each stage. Print out your plans and keep them in a binder. This will help keep you organized and prevent pages from getting lost or damaged.
You can follow the plan step by step or you may decide to make a few changes to the plan. Changing a few details is a great way to make a generic plan more personal and original. For example, you can change certain designs or accent pieces and give the project a whole new look. Another option is to paint the finished product, rather than staining.
Creating Woodworking Plans
Once you become more experienced, you may decide to try to create your own plan. Start by sketching how you want the finished product to look. The first sketch doesn’t need to be too technical or detailed. You will add the details and dimensions later. Once you have made your original sketch, determine the dimensions of the total finished product.
Determine what type of wood you will use in your project and how much wood you will need. It’s important to use accurate measurements when ordering the wood to avoid running out before the project is finished. Determine what other materials you will need to complete the project. This will help you estimate the total cost.
Create a detailed list of all materials needed and the quantity of each material. Include items such as paint, stain or polyurethane. Consider the tools that will be needed to complete the project. Do you have all that you need? With this information, you can then determine the overall cost. Take this list with you when you go out to purchase supplies.
You will then draw a more detailed sketch of your design. Create diagrams like those found in woodworking plans on the internet. Draw each stage of the process in detail. Write out detailed instructions that will take you step by step through the project. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you don’t skip any essential steps along the way.
Finding Woodworking Plans
Free woodworking patterns can be found on the internet. Many are free, but others need to be purchased. You can search for general plans or for specific projects. Patterns are available for everything from a simple box or bird feeder to elaborate furniture projects. Several websites offer plans for making children’s toys and decorative items. Enter the project you are looking for in your favourite search engine or just enter free woodworking plans.
There are books available that are devoted to wood working patterns. You can find these at book stores, on the internet or in your local library. Often, woodworking magazines will contain plans for a wide variety of projects. Purchase a few of these at your local news stand. After you have found one you like best, you may decide to subscribe and receive new plans month after month.
If you are new to woodworking, it’s best to start of with a simple pattern. This will help you learn to read and follow the plans. As your skills increase, you can move on to more difficult projects. Start off with a simple toy or bird feeder before attempting to make a dining room set. Look for detailed and thorough plans to help you create your project.
Good plans include detailed instructions. The instructions should take you step by step through the entire project. Look for plans that have detailed diagrams as well as illustrations of the project at each stage. Print out your plans and keep them in a binder. This will help keep you organized and prevent pages from getting lost or damaged.
You can follow the plan step by step or you may decide to make a few changes to the plan. Changing a few details is a great way to make a generic plan more personal and original. For example, you can change certain designs or accent pieces and give the project a whole new look. Another option is to paint the finished product, rather than staining.
Creating Woodworking Plans
Once you become more experienced, you may decide to try to create your own plan. Start by sketching how you want the finished product to look. The first sketch doesn’t need to be too technical or detailed. You will add the details and dimensions later. Once you have made your original sketch, determine the dimensions of the total finished product.
Determine what type of wood you will use in your project and how much wood you will need. It’s important to use accurate measurements when ordering the wood to avoid running out before the project is finished. Determine what other materials you will need to complete the project. This will help you estimate the total cost.
Create a detailed list of all materials needed and the quantity of each material. Include items such as paint, stain or polyurethane. Consider the tools that will be needed to complete the project. Do you have all that you need? With this information, you can then determine the overall cost. Take this list with you when you go out to purchase supplies.
You will then draw a more detailed sketch of your design. Create diagrams like those found in woodworking plans on the internet. Draw each stage of the process in detail. Write out detailed instructions that will take you step by step through the project. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you don’t skip any essential steps along the way.
Wood flooring is beautiful and increases the value of your home. They continue to be loved more than stone flooring or slate flooring. Wood has depth and warmth that looks great and gives your home a warm feeling.
A variety of choices are available in both hard woods and other wood types. The type of wood you will choose depends on your personal preference and the décor of your home. Wood is suitable for nearly every room in your home. It may not be best in kitchens and bathrooms due to the amount of moisture found in these areas.
Choices in Wood Flooring
Hardwood remains a popular choice in wood floors. You have the choice of several different hardwoods. Popular choices include oak, cherry, hickory, maple, walnut and bellawood. These can be stained a variety of shades and tones. Consider leaving the wood in its natural color. Some hardwoods, such as walnut and cherry have a rich tone without the need for staining.
Once you have chosen the material, consider your finishing options. You may decide to purchase pre finished wood. This is already stained and protected with a clear coating. Pre finished is generally more expensive, but saves a significant amount of time.
Another option is to install the floor and then finish the wood. You will need to sand, stain and urethane the floor. After each coat, the floor will need to be sanded. This process takes several days to complete. The more coats of urethane you need the better protected the surface.
Another option is distressed or reclaimed flooring. These floors don’t have a smooth texture. However, they are beautiful and have character unlike other finishes. Another major benefit of these is they won’t show scratches as easily as urethane floors.
You have some choices other than traditional hardwood. Laminate flooring offers a choice in flooring. These are made to resemble real hardwood at a lower price. With good quality laminates, it can be difficult to tell the difference between this and real hard wood. Companies such as Armstrong flooring make high quality laminates. Other choices include cork flooring or bamboo floors.
Caring for Wood Flooring
Proper care will ensure your wood flooring has a good, long life. Whether you choose hardwood, laminate or other options, the care is basically the same.
o Sweep or vacuum the floor regularly to keep dirt and dust to a minimum. Dirt and grit on the floor wear away the surface and leave scratches in your floor.
o Use mats at the entrances to your home. This way feet can be wiped, preventing much of this dirt from entering your home in the first place.
o Lightly clean the floor when needed. If occasional mopping is needed, use a nearly dry mop. Too much water can seep between the slats and damage your floor. This can cause warping, damage the surface or cause water to become trapped under the floor. This can result in damage to the backing and mold can grow under the floor.
A variety of choices are available in both hard woods and other wood types. The type of wood you will choose depends on your personal preference and the décor of your home. Wood is suitable for nearly every room in your home. It may not be best in kitchens and bathrooms due to the amount of moisture found in these areas.
Choices in Wood Flooring
Hardwood remains a popular choice in wood floors. You have the choice of several different hardwoods. Popular choices include oak, cherry, hickory, maple, walnut and bellawood. These can be stained a variety of shades and tones. Consider leaving the wood in its natural color. Some hardwoods, such as walnut and cherry have a rich tone without the need for staining.
Once you have chosen the material, consider your finishing options. You may decide to purchase pre finished wood. This is already stained and protected with a clear coating. Pre finished is generally more expensive, but saves a significant amount of time.
Another option is to install the floor and then finish the wood. You will need to sand, stain and urethane the floor. After each coat, the floor will need to be sanded. This process takes several days to complete. The more coats of urethane you need the better protected the surface.
Another option is distressed or reclaimed flooring. These floors don’t have a smooth texture. However, they are beautiful and have character unlike other finishes. Another major benefit of these is they won’t show scratches as easily as urethane floors.
You have some choices other than traditional hardwood. Laminate flooring offers a choice in flooring. These are made to resemble real hardwood at a lower price. With good quality laminates, it can be difficult to tell the difference between this and real hard wood. Companies such as Armstrong flooring make high quality laminates. Other choices include cork flooring or bamboo floors.
Caring for Wood Flooring
Proper care will ensure your wood flooring has a good, long life. Whether you choose hardwood, laminate or other options, the care is basically the same.
o Sweep or vacuum the floor regularly to keep dirt and dust to a minimum. Dirt and grit on the floor wear away the surface and leave scratches in your floor.
o Use mats at the entrances to your home. This way feet can be wiped, preventing much of this dirt from entering your home in the first place.
o Lightly clean the floor when needed. If occasional mopping is needed, use a nearly dry mop. Too much water can seep between the slats and damage your floor. This can cause warping, damage the surface or cause water to become trapped under the floor. This can result in damage to the backing and mold can grow under the floor.
A Guide To Using Decorative Window Film
Decorative window film can be an economical way to add both privacy and style to your home. Whether you apply it yourself or have a professional do it you’ll appreciate the beauty and functionality of the product.
Many people choose decorative window film not for the privacy aspect but because of the aesthetic value. There are many different designs available and they can be used to complement the décor in every room.
If you are considering replacing windows in your home than you can inquire about having the window film applied before the new windows are delivered. Ask the representative from the window company if they do handle the application of decorative window film. If they do they will show you samples of the available types of decorative window film they sell.
Having many windows in a home can help filter in the warmth and brightness of the sun all year long. Some of those windows may face a busy street or look onto a neighbor’s home stealing your privacy.
Decorative window film that resembles etched glass is a very popular choice. It is an economical solution to a family that wants the look of etched glass windows without having the burden of the price.
If you are applying decorative window film to one or two small windows than you might want to save the money you’d pay in labor and try it yourself. You’ll just need a few simple tools and patience to get the job done.
One way to correct this problem without having to cover the window with a blind or a shade is decorative window film. Decorative window film comes in many different designs and once applied to the window it makes it almost impossible for anyone to see inside.
Another approach is to purchase a roll of decorative window film and apply it yourself. This can be a tedious task as the film needs to be applied without any air bubbles beneath it. It also has to be completely straight so that it is aesthetically pleasing when you look at it from both inside and outside of the home.
Glass shower stalls are another spot in your home where you can utilize decorative window film. Many people want more privacy while they are taking a shower and applying window film affords that. It also can add a beautiful accent to your bathroom.
Applying decorative window film can be done in several ways. One is to hire a contractor who has experience in applying decorative window film. Once you have chosen the decorative window film that you want, they will come to your home and apply it for you.
Many people choose decorative window film not for the privacy aspect but because of the aesthetic value. There are many different designs available and they can be used to complement the décor in every room.
If you are considering replacing windows in your home than you can inquire about having the window film applied before the new windows are delivered. Ask the representative from the window company if they do handle the application of decorative window film. If they do they will show you samples of the available types of decorative window film they sell.
Having many windows in a home can help filter in the warmth and brightness of the sun all year long. Some of those windows may face a busy street or look onto a neighbor’s home stealing your privacy.
Decorative window film that resembles etched glass is a very popular choice. It is an economical solution to a family that wants the look of etched glass windows without having the burden of the price.
If you are applying decorative window film to one or two small windows than you might want to save the money you’d pay in labor and try it yourself. You’ll just need a few simple tools and patience to get the job done.
One way to correct this problem without having to cover the window with a blind or a shade is decorative window film. Decorative window film comes in many different designs and once applied to the window it makes it almost impossible for anyone to see inside.
Another approach is to purchase a roll of decorative window film and apply it yourself. This can be a tedious task as the film needs to be applied without any air bubbles beneath it. It also has to be completely straight so that it is aesthetically pleasing when you look at it from both inside and outside of the home.
Glass shower stalls are another spot in your home where you can utilize decorative window film. Many people want more privacy while they are taking a shower and applying window film affords that. It also can add a beautiful accent to your bathroom.
Applying decorative window film can be done in several ways. One is to hire a contractor who has experience in applying decorative window film. Once you have chosen the decorative window film that you want, they will come to your home and apply it for you.
10 Ways to Cut Your Electric Bill
One of the major concerns in the world today is depletion of energy. As concerned citizens all of us must make a concerted effort to be conscious citizens and save electricity. Electricity has become integral to life but imagine having to live without power.
Conservation of electricity benefits you personally as you will pay lower bills. Consider:
1. Doing an energy audit. This will tell you how and when you use energy and where the wastage lies. You will be able to make an “energy savings plan” by pinpointing exactly how you can cut back on energy consumption. Some ideas may be as simple as don’t leave the coffee machine on at all times.
2. Think about resetting the thermostat ten degrees lower during the night. If you can do this for say approximately eight hours a day you will save 10% on electricity without sacrificing comfort. Insulate the home in winter by drawing shut the drapes.
3. Check all insulation in the house. If you increase attic insulation to around 12 inches the electricity consumption will reduce by 20 percent.
4. Plant more trees around the house these will cool the house in summer and insulate the house in winter. Studies show that a green cover benefits in many ways.
5. Have all electricity wires and outlets checked for leakage. Check all fuses and appliances.
6. Fluorescent light bulbs are energy efficient. They use 75% less energy than ordinary light bulbs. These have a longer life and contribute to great savings.
7. Use energy efficient appliances. These use less energy and believe it or not a high efficiency refrigerator uses less electricity than a light bulb.
8. When you are away even for a few hours or days you should turn off and unplug all electrical appliances and turn settings on the thermostat, water heater, and refrigerator to the lowest setting.
9. Ensure that you use a water-saving shower head. Water heating costs for a family can be lowered by at least US$ 250 a year.
10. Weatherize your home. This helps reduce heating bills by 20% and cooling by at least 10 percent. Even when building a home or decorating it use weather friendly materials—those that are not good conductors of heat and cold. Install windows and glass panes in the roof in such away that you use sunlight to light up the rooms during day light hours. Make an effort to switch off lights and fans when leaving a room. Ensure that the filters in air conditioners and heaters are always cleaned and free of clog and dust.
If you live an energy efficient lifestyle you will see the numbers on the energy bill actually reducing. The power to cut energy costs is well within your control. It is as simple as only washing full loads and that to in cold water. Use the hot wash option only for very dirty clothes. Cook food only just before you are ready to eat that way you can save reheating costs as well as refrigerating costs of storing the food. Turn the thermostat of the refrigerator to minimum in cold or cool weather. Switch off freezers if they are not in use. Small contributions can all add up to significant amounts of power saved. And, power saved means money in the bank.
Conservation of electricity benefits you personally as you will pay lower bills. Consider:
1. Doing an energy audit. This will tell you how and when you use energy and where the wastage lies. You will be able to make an “energy savings plan” by pinpointing exactly how you can cut back on energy consumption. Some ideas may be as simple as don’t leave the coffee machine on at all times.
2. Think about resetting the thermostat ten degrees lower during the night. If you can do this for say approximately eight hours a day you will save 10% on electricity without sacrificing comfort. Insulate the home in winter by drawing shut the drapes.
3. Check all insulation in the house. If you increase attic insulation to around 12 inches the electricity consumption will reduce by 20 percent.
4. Plant more trees around the house these will cool the house in summer and insulate the house in winter. Studies show that a green cover benefits in many ways.
5. Have all electricity wires and outlets checked for leakage. Check all fuses and appliances.
6. Fluorescent light bulbs are energy efficient. They use 75% less energy than ordinary light bulbs. These have a longer life and contribute to great savings.
7. Use energy efficient appliances. These use less energy and believe it or not a high efficiency refrigerator uses less electricity than a light bulb.
8. When you are away even for a few hours or days you should turn off and unplug all electrical appliances and turn settings on the thermostat, water heater, and refrigerator to the lowest setting.
9. Ensure that you use a water-saving shower head. Water heating costs for a family can be lowered by at least US$ 250 a year.
10. Weatherize your home. This helps reduce heating bills by 20% and cooling by at least 10 percent. Even when building a home or decorating it use weather friendly materials—those that are not good conductors of heat and cold. Install windows and glass panes in the roof in such away that you use sunlight to light up the rooms during day light hours. Make an effort to switch off lights and fans when leaving a room. Ensure that the filters in air conditioners and heaters are always cleaned and free of clog and dust.
If you live an energy efficient lifestyle you will see the numbers on the energy bill actually reducing. The power to cut energy costs is well within your control. It is as simple as only washing full loads and that to in cold water. Use the hot wash option only for very dirty clothes. Cook food only just before you are ready to eat that way you can save reheating costs as well as refrigerating costs of storing the food. Turn the thermostat of the refrigerator to minimum in cold or cool weather. Switch off freezers if they are not in use. Small contributions can all add up to significant amounts of power saved. And, power saved means money in the bank.
5 Tips For Spring Cleaning
With warmer months just around the corner, spring cleaning isn’t far away. Whether you want to clear some of the winter clutter or just feel like a change in scenery, spring cleaning can make it happen. Now is the perfect time to clean out the garage, basement and/or attic. If there are any items that you don’t plan to use, this article will tell you how to get rid of them while making money doing it. As we all know, this can take a lot of work but a few simple tips can make your spring cleaning experience a breeze.
Tip 1:
If you are storing away your winter clothes, consider using large plastic storage containers that feature snap-on lids. These can be found in the house wares department at most stores and are very inexpensive. Storage containers are very important to keeping your clothes dust and discoloration free, which may otherwise be a problem if they are left hanging in the closet from one season to the next.
Tip 2:
When packing your clothes, roll them instead of folding. This not only eliminates creases and wrinkles, but also saves a lot of space. You will be able to pack a lot more clothes with this technique.
Tip 3:
Label your clothing containers as ‘spring,’ ‘fall’ and ‘winter.’ This will help you to easily locate your wardrobe inside the closet.
Tip 3:
If you have any clothing that you don’t plan to wear or simply have outgrown, consider donating them to a local goodwill or other nonprofit organization. Rather than tossing them out, your clothes can provide revenue for a worthy cause and help the less-fortunate to be able to afford clothing that would otherwise be unattainable.
Tip 4:
If you are looking to clear out some knick knacks or perhaps even some Holiday decorations in order to make room for new ones, consider a trip to the local flea market. Everyone is looking for a bargain and they just may be looking for something that you no longer wish to own. A setup fee is usually required which, depending on the location, can be $10.00 to 20.00 per day. Otherwise, you can always sell items at internet auction sites, including Yahoo and eBay.
Tip 5:
With all of the changes that you’re making, it may be time to switch to a lightweight vacuum. This will save from lugging around a heavier model and will glide across the floor with ease. There’s no use in completely wearing yourself out during spring cleaning, so try to make it as easy as possible.
Tip 1:
If you are storing away your winter clothes, consider using large plastic storage containers that feature snap-on lids. These can be found in the house wares department at most stores and are very inexpensive. Storage containers are very important to keeping your clothes dust and discoloration free, which may otherwise be a problem if they are left hanging in the closet from one season to the next.
Tip 2:
When packing your clothes, roll them instead of folding. This not only eliminates creases and wrinkles, but also saves a lot of space. You will be able to pack a lot more clothes with this technique.
Tip 3:
Label your clothing containers as ‘spring,’ ‘fall’ and ‘winter.’ This will help you to easily locate your wardrobe inside the closet.
Tip 3:
If you have any clothing that you don’t plan to wear or simply have outgrown, consider donating them to a local goodwill or other nonprofit organization. Rather than tossing them out, your clothes can provide revenue for a worthy cause and help the less-fortunate to be able to afford clothing that would otherwise be unattainable.
Tip 4:
If you are looking to clear out some knick knacks or perhaps even some Holiday decorations in order to make room for new ones, consider a trip to the local flea market. Everyone is looking for a bargain and they just may be looking for something that you no longer wish to own. A setup fee is usually required which, depending on the location, can be $10.00 to 20.00 per day. Otherwise, you can always sell items at internet auction sites, including Yahoo and eBay.
Tip 5:
With all of the changes that you’re making, it may be time to switch to a lightweight vacuum. This will save from lugging around a heavier model and will glide across the floor with ease. There’s no use in completely wearing yourself out during spring cleaning, so try to make it as easy as possible.
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