Of all the trades involved in house renovation the one that most people are prepared to do themselves is painting. Why then do you think a painter trains for four years to learn the necessary skills and can you really do as good a job?
We all want to save money when renovating. It may be that you are selling and want to increase the perceived value and speed of sale so you whip out the paint brushes and rollers.
1. Don't take on too many areas at once. If you are still living in the house just tackle one room at a time.
2. Take your time to mask any areas which need to be protected. If you have a steady hand then you should be able to cut in around windows and doors and on the skirting boards.
3. Use plaster to repair any holes or dents in the walls. Sand properly and do a brush coat over the repair before rolling. To speed the drying time of patches use a hair dryer. For deeper holes, partially fill, allow to dry to add some more.
4. Spend a few dollars on good quality paint brushes. You will get a better finish and far fewer brush hairs will end up on the wall.
5. Use a 2 inch or 50Ml brush for your cutting in and a 3 inch or 75 Ml brush for bigger areas such as for painting the ceiling cornice.
6. Use heavy drop sheets. Many DIY painters will drag out some old bed sheets but any spilled paint will soak through to your floors or furniture.
7. Use a specific water based ceiling paint. Even if you want the same color for your ceiling and walls you need a proper ceiling paint. Anything with sheen will show up imperfections with lighting.
8. Work from the top down. Firstly cut in the ceiling colour on the cornice. Then cut around any lights or ceiling fans. Next roll the ceiling. Remember that rollers can spray paint not in your eyes but anywhere in the room. If you get spray on the window glass leave it until it dries then use a scraper to clean it off.
9. For walls it is best to use water based low sheen paint. You don't want high reflection.
10. Cut in up to your cornice, around your doors and windows and your skirting boards, about two inches. If you are going to paint your skirting boards with gloss paint don't get the water based wall paint on it.
11. Roll your walls don't brush them. Always cut then roll for each coat. Ensure the paint is completely dry before recoating. Cold wet or very humid weather will slow down your drying time.
12. If you are painting oil based gloss on the skirting boards over existing water based paint you will need to use a primer coat.
13. Doors can be painted with a full oil based gloss if they are new. But in an older home it's best to use a semi gloss water based paint as it won't show up the bumps and imperfections in the doors. You must cut in the edges with a brush but roll as much of the door as possible.
And now I would like to offer you a FREE 12 part mini course on improving your house to sell go to http://livingwellpublications.com/home/selling/.
And for lots more home improvement ideas to help you sell go to http://www.houseimprovementsecrets.com/sellyourhouse/index.php.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ian_Newton
Wednesday, 17 March 2010
Thursday, 11 March 2010
Save Yourself Time and Money by Taking Care of the Small Stuff
Fixing your problems when they are small is the best time to catch them. This will help cut down the overall costs in the long run and also save yourself from the mental anguish that you would suffer when these small problems turn into bigger ones all due to your negligence.
Repairing these minor problems before they turn into something much larger will ultimately make you feel good about yourself simply from the satisfaction of doing something for yourself and by yourself. Not to mention all of the money you will save should also make you feel pretty satisfied as well. Though your house repair solutions may seem difficult to handle at first, with just a little motivation and action, these small tasks will be completed without too much hassle or time invested.
Prevention is always better than the cure and this falls in with your home repair solutions as well. A well maintained house doesn't cost much to repair and fetches you a profitable investment in the long run. Preventing problems from appearing in the first place and getting them fixed before they end up in huge complications is the perfect home repair solution.
The main problems in your House plumbing are due to:
• Dripping Taps.
• Blocked Drains.
• Problems with your Hot Water Heater Systems.
By adopting simple measures we can certainly prevent them from turning into disastrous solutions. First off, let's talk about that dripping tap...
Usually your dripping tap will worsen if it is left unrepaired. So to stop the tap from dripping you may likely end up over tightening the tap. This will only increase the damage and thus will cost you more when you have to buy a new one to replace it. So when you notice your tap dripping you need to act immediately and replace the washer. That's it!
More plumber repair tips...
• This will help you to save money and you will not be taken for a ride by your plumber. This way you won't get overcharged.
• Always opt for a qualified plumber as an unprofessional person can blotch up your repair job and may increase the damage instead of rectifying it.
• Clear out the area where your plumber is working. This way your plumber can get in and out of there thus saving you money if they are charging you by the hour.
• Get different quotes from plumbers and choose the one that can give you quality service in an affordable way.
• You also need to be careful and should not accept the cheapest quote as you should look for plumbers that come with good credentials so that the job gets done in a professional way.
Make your house more cozy and more comfortable with a nice Breakfast Nook Set. Visit Wade's new Breakfast Nook Furniture website to learn more.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Wade_Davis
Repairing these minor problems before they turn into something much larger will ultimately make you feel good about yourself simply from the satisfaction of doing something for yourself and by yourself. Not to mention all of the money you will save should also make you feel pretty satisfied as well. Though your house repair solutions may seem difficult to handle at first, with just a little motivation and action, these small tasks will be completed without too much hassle or time invested.
Prevention is always better than the cure and this falls in with your home repair solutions as well. A well maintained house doesn't cost much to repair and fetches you a profitable investment in the long run. Preventing problems from appearing in the first place and getting them fixed before they end up in huge complications is the perfect home repair solution.
The main problems in your House plumbing are due to:
• Dripping Taps.
• Blocked Drains.
• Problems with your Hot Water Heater Systems.
By adopting simple measures we can certainly prevent them from turning into disastrous solutions. First off, let's talk about that dripping tap...
Usually your dripping tap will worsen if it is left unrepaired. So to stop the tap from dripping you may likely end up over tightening the tap. This will only increase the damage and thus will cost you more when you have to buy a new one to replace it. So when you notice your tap dripping you need to act immediately and replace the washer. That's it!
More plumber repair tips...
• This will help you to save money and you will not be taken for a ride by your plumber. This way you won't get overcharged.
• Always opt for a qualified plumber as an unprofessional person can blotch up your repair job and may increase the damage instead of rectifying it.
• Clear out the area where your plumber is working. This way your plumber can get in and out of there thus saving you money if they are charging you by the hour.
• Get different quotes from plumbers and choose the one that can give you quality service in an affordable way.
• You also need to be careful and should not accept the cheapest quote as you should look for plumbers that come with good credentials so that the job gets done in a professional way.
Make your house more cozy and more comfortable with a nice Breakfast Nook Set. Visit Wade's new Breakfast Nook Furniture website to learn more.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Wade_Davis
Wednesday, 10 March 2010
DIY Home Improvement For Beginners - The Basics of DIY
DIY or do it yourself is a goal-oriented hobby initiated and completed by individuals or small groups. The basic premise is that if a person learns reasonably fast and knows how to apply basic skills to projects, then the person doesn't have to hire other people to do the work for him.
In recent years, DIY home improvement has made impact in television and in the hearts of interested homemakers and professionals. The idea of improving the looks of your home using your own basic talent appeals to a lot of people. If you wish to begin your own journey in DIY home improvement, certain things have to be taken into consideration so that you can increase your success rate in any DIY home improvement projects.
The basics of DIY explained:
1. Skill- the acquisition of skill in DIY is self-paced, and depends largely on your enthusiasm for the task at hand. Enthusiasm translates to willingness- the willingness to finish tasks and the willingness to learn. If you're just beginning with DIY, stick to small, doable projects that you know would be fun for you. Sustaining interest is also one key problem, so if you're improving your house with your own two hands, make sure that the part of the house that you wish to alter won't make you miserable after a few days.
2. Knowledge- certain things cannot simply be assumed- and this includes electrical systems and cabinet designs. Read all that you can about what you want to do. Limit yourself to doable ones. Making a table is doable, but replacing your living room's large chandelier on your own isn't. Learn, have fun and then go to the next task. This is the formula to successful DIY home improvement projects.
3. Time- let's face it. DIY home improvement projects need a lot of time. If you can't find time for the project, then postpone your attempt first. You can reschedule next summer or during the holiday season. This would minimize clutter in your house and cut down waste materials due to expiration dates.
4. Finances- the aim is to save money and enjoy the DIY project. However, there are some DIY projects that require a lot of money. Never sacrifice the integrity and safety of your house by buying substandard yet cheap materials. It doesn't matter if you save or not. Example, if your roof fails due to thin braces and support trusses then you would be spending a lot more in repairing the damage.
5. Help- sometimes, doing it alone can be difficult. Try to find people of similar interests and start collecting 'tried and tested" formulas for DIY home improvement. On the World Wide Web, there are small yet reliable organizations that gives out DIY home improvement tips, through collaborations with companies that supply the materials to DIY enthusiasts.
6. Creativity- creativity will sustain your early attempts, and would push you to do better in future DIY home improvement projects. Being creative also means being able to go past boundaries in craftsmanship and design. You can customize if you want, being creative is a much prized quality for any DIY enthusiasts.
The author of this article was Benedict Yossarian. For home improvements Benedict recommends Dekorbeton Decorative Concrete as a cheap alternative to expensive bricks and Roof Bond Spray Foam Roof Insulation [http://www.roofbond.biz/] to reduce your heating costs.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Benedict_Yossarian
In recent years, DIY home improvement has made impact in television and in the hearts of interested homemakers and professionals. The idea of improving the looks of your home using your own basic talent appeals to a lot of people. If you wish to begin your own journey in DIY home improvement, certain things have to be taken into consideration so that you can increase your success rate in any DIY home improvement projects.
The basics of DIY explained:
1. Skill- the acquisition of skill in DIY is self-paced, and depends largely on your enthusiasm for the task at hand. Enthusiasm translates to willingness- the willingness to finish tasks and the willingness to learn. If you're just beginning with DIY, stick to small, doable projects that you know would be fun for you. Sustaining interest is also one key problem, so if you're improving your house with your own two hands, make sure that the part of the house that you wish to alter won't make you miserable after a few days.
2. Knowledge- certain things cannot simply be assumed- and this includes electrical systems and cabinet designs. Read all that you can about what you want to do. Limit yourself to doable ones. Making a table is doable, but replacing your living room's large chandelier on your own isn't. Learn, have fun and then go to the next task. This is the formula to successful DIY home improvement projects.
3. Time- let's face it. DIY home improvement projects need a lot of time. If you can't find time for the project, then postpone your attempt first. You can reschedule next summer or during the holiday season. This would minimize clutter in your house and cut down waste materials due to expiration dates.
4. Finances- the aim is to save money and enjoy the DIY project. However, there are some DIY projects that require a lot of money. Never sacrifice the integrity and safety of your house by buying substandard yet cheap materials. It doesn't matter if you save or not. Example, if your roof fails due to thin braces and support trusses then you would be spending a lot more in repairing the damage.
5. Help- sometimes, doing it alone can be difficult. Try to find people of similar interests and start collecting 'tried and tested" formulas for DIY home improvement. On the World Wide Web, there are small yet reliable organizations that gives out DIY home improvement tips, through collaborations with companies that supply the materials to DIY enthusiasts.
6. Creativity- creativity will sustain your early attempts, and would push you to do better in future DIY home improvement projects. Being creative also means being able to go past boundaries in craftsmanship and design. You can customize if you want, being creative is a much prized quality for any DIY enthusiasts.
The author of this article was Benedict Yossarian. For home improvements Benedict recommends Dekorbeton Decorative Concrete as a cheap alternative to expensive bricks and Roof Bond Spray Foam Roof Insulation [http://www.roofbond.biz/] to reduce your heating costs.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Benedict_Yossarian
The Organized Tool Box
Are you always digging around for the right tool? Hammers abound, but why are the flat-edge screwdrivers always missing? Wouldn't it be great to have everything in an easy-to-find space? Here are some steps and tips to get you on your way.
Step 1: Inventory.
First, start by gathering all your tools. Make a list of the locations where you found your tools. Garage, kitchen, basement, car, truck? Lay them all out on a bedsheet or blanket. Sort them by type to get an idea of how many different kinds of tools you have.
Next, examine each tool and decide what to keep.
Is it a duplicate? If so, how many of this tool do I need?
Have I ever used it? Some tools passed down thru the family should be kept for sentimental reasons, but others that you've never used can surely go.
Is it broken? If it isn't usable and can't be repaired then discard it.
Have I replaced it with a multi-purpose tool that does the job more efficiently?
Does a neighbor have a better version that I usually borrow?
Toss out the broken tools, sell the good ones on eBay, get a tax break by donating to a local charitable organization, have a "yard sale for men" or help a favorite college grad begin their first tool box. Only keep the tools you are sure to use in the future.
Step 2: Make a Plan.
Using your list of locations from step 1, think about how and where you use your tools. You may decide to centralize your tools in the garage or basement. Begin sorting your tool collection into groups according to their desired location. This will help you to determine the storage space requirements for each area.
Step 3: Choose your Tool Storage System.
The internet is a great tool for finding the latest tool storage solutions. Portable tool boxes are great for on-the-go types to keep in their car or truck. Behind-the-wheel tool boxes for pickup trucks are a great way to take advantage of unused truck bed space. If you have a ton of small parts, you may consider some plastic storage cabinets with sliding drawers. Pegboards work nicely in the garage or basement workspace to keep tools handy and off the countertops. Maybe you need some new shelving to store larger-sized tools.
Step 4: Implement your new Tool Storage System.
If you've ordered a new tool box or some other item, then when it arrives begin to place your tools in order. Once you've got everything in its place, remember to always take the extra time to put items away when they are done being used. If you've added a pegboard, consider drawing an outline around each tool as it hangs on the pegboard to make it easier to know where to return the tool.
Get motivated--you'll be glad you did. Once you're organized, maybe you'll even have space to buy some new tools!
Copyright 2006, netCityShops, All rights reserved.
Sarah Wagner wrote this article for netCityShops. Visit our online stores for a great selection of wall decor and storage and organization products designed to make your life easier!
You may reprint this article in its entirety as long as you include the signature area. If reprinting on the web, the web address from the signature line must be hyperlinked.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Wagner
Step 1: Inventory.
First, start by gathering all your tools. Make a list of the locations where you found your tools. Garage, kitchen, basement, car, truck? Lay them all out on a bedsheet or blanket. Sort them by type to get an idea of how many different kinds of tools you have.
Next, examine each tool and decide what to keep.
Is it a duplicate? If so, how many of this tool do I need?
Have I ever used it? Some tools passed down thru the family should be kept for sentimental reasons, but others that you've never used can surely go.
Is it broken? If it isn't usable and can't be repaired then discard it.
Have I replaced it with a multi-purpose tool that does the job more efficiently?
Does a neighbor have a better version that I usually borrow?
Toss out the broken tools, sell the good ones on eBay, get a tax break by donating to a local charitable organization, have a "yard sale for men" or help a favorite college grad begin their first tool box. Only keep the tools you are sure to use in the future.
Step 2: Make a Plan.
Using your list of locations from step 1, think about how and where you use your tools. You may decide to centralize your tools in the garage or basement. Begin sorting your tool collection into groups according to their desired location. This will help you to determine the storage space requirements for each area.
Step 3: Choose your Tool Storage System.
The internet is a great tool for finding the latest tool storage solutions. Portable tool boxes are great for on-the-go types to keep in their car or truck. Behind-the-wheel tool boxes for pickup trucks are a great way to take advantage of unused truck bed space. If you have a ton of small parts, you may consider some plastic storage cabinets with sliding drawers. Pegboards work nicely in the garage or basement workspace to keep tools handy and off the countertops. Maybe you need some new shelving to store larger-sized tools.
Step 4: Implement your new Tool Storage System.
If you've ordered a new tool box or some other item, then when it arrives begin to place your tools in order. Once you've got everything in its place, remember to always take the extra time to put items away when they are done being used. If you've added a pegboard, consider drawing an outline around each tool as it hangs on the pegboard to make it easier to know where to return the tool.
Get motivated--you'll be glad you did. Once you're organized, maybe you'll even have space to buy some new tools!
Copyright 2006, netCityShops, All rights reserved.
Sarah Wagner wrote this article for netCityShops. Visit our online stores for a great selection of wall decor and storage and organization products designed to make your life easier!
You may reprint this article in its entirety as long as you include the signature area. If reprinting on the web, the web address from the signature line must be hyperlinked.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Wagner
Cheap Tool Boxes Can Be a Great Option to Get You Organized
If your hammers and screwdrivers are scattered through the house or are all over your car or garage then you sound like the type of person that tool boxes were invented for. Imagine keeping your favorite hammer, screwdriver and drill in one box. When you need one you go to it and take out what you need and then put it back. For projects where you need several items you just take the box with you. The handle on these boxes also make it very easy to carry with you no matter where you end up going to do a project.
However as you aren't a professional and only do the odd job here and there you might not want a fancy one that costs a lot. That is why you might want to purchase one of the many cheap tool boxes that are sold today.
One of these does not need to be complicated or elaborate. You can find many for as cheap as 10$. The cheap ones are usually red and made out of a durable plastic. They are pretty basic and just have areas for you to store your tools and then have a lock to keep everything secure plus a nice easy handle for ease in mobility.
Where to Find a Good Deal
A great place to start looking for them is to shop online. You can find some deals on cheap storage sheds and even read reviews from other users at stores like Amazon. The benefit to buying online is that you usually won't have to pay tax but you might have to pay shipping.
If you'd rather shop locally, a hardware store is a great place to start. If you want more than a simple box but still want a good deal on it thrift stores or garage sales are a great place to shop and you might find a good deal there. However keep in mind that they might be used. You will find that a well made box can last a long time if treated well.
Jon is a professional handyman who shares do-it-yourself tips and gives no non-sense advice on how to maximize use of a Snap On tool. At SnapOnToolBoxes.net, you'll find more information on the related category.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jon_Wells
However as you aren't a professional and only do the odd job here and there you might not want a fancy one that costs a lot. That is why you might want to purchase one of the many cheap tool boxes that are sold today.
One of these does not need to be complicated or elaborate. You can find many for as cheap as 10$. The cheap ones are usually red and made out of a durable plastic. They are pretty basic and just have areas for you to store your tools and then have a lock to keep everything secure plus a nice easy handle for ease in mobility.
Where to Find a Good Deal
A great place to start looking for them is to shop online. You can find some deals on cheap storage sheds and even read reviews from other users at stores like Amazon. The benefit to buying online is that you usually won't have to pay tax but you might have to pay shipping.
If you'd rather shop locally, a hardware store is a great place to start. If you want more than a simple box but still want a good deal on it thrift stores or garage sales are a great place to shop and you might find a good deal there. However keep in mind that they might be used. You will find that a well made box can last a long time if treated well.
Jon is a professional handyman who shares do-it-yourself tips and gives no non-sense advice on how to maximize use of a Snap On tool. At SnapOnToolBoxes.net, you'll find more information on the related category.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jon_Wells
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
