Ms. Fix-It: You Can Do It!

My husband is a computer geek. He’s great at his job, but tools and repair work are just not his things. I didn’t know anything about tools or making repairs either. When we bought our house and problems arose, we hired repairmen. After being overcharged and witnessing how simple some of the repairs were, I thought, “I can learn how to do that.”

I didn’t think much more about it until our garbage disposal broke. When my husband suggested I call someone to come out and fix it, I got online instead. I went to the manufacturer’s website and found a troubleshooting guide. I also found a couple of step-by-step websites that told me exactly what to do. It was so much easier than I thought! When I told my husband that I fixed the garbage disposal, he was incredulous. I was so proud of my accomplishment that I then had the confidence to take on bigger projects.

I discovered that the Internet is a great source of information on “how to” projects. Everything I wanted to try was right there with a simple explanation. The next Valentine’s Day, I asked for a circular saw to make the shelves I wanted in the pantry. I was officially a “repair chick.”

I’ve repaired plumbing, installed sinks and faucets, fixed major appliances, tiled floors, painted, wallpapered, installed carpet, and I’ve even dabbled in drywall. My latest project was building our deck, which I even designed thanks to some cool software. I got help on the deck from men who I had to teach how to help me. This is all only six years after picking up my first tools!

I bought a couple of “how to” books specifically for women. I have to admit that I hated them both. They were terribly condescending. They said things like, “This is a screwdriver. You use it to tighten screws. It’s OK for women to use them.” I’m only exaggerating a little bit. At first, I did need some basics, but that was ridiculous. In this age of home improvement shows constantly on television, I knew enough to know what projects I wanted to try, but I didn’t know how to do them. I have to admit I was a bit intimidated, too.

You have to be prepared for a bit of patronizing from certain men. When my husband is with me at the home improvement store, the male employees sometimes talk only to him, even if I ask a question. It’s as though they can’t imagine that a woman is capable of using power tools. The best part of learning about home improvement comes when you have to hire someone for big jobs. You’re less likely to be swindled when workmen know that you’re “home improvement literate.” You’re also more likely to get exactly what you want because you can describe things specifically so there’s no doubt.

If you’re intimidated or new to the world of home improvement, start small. Fix the garbage disposal, change out the lint exhaust duct behind the dryer, or install a roll-out cabinet organizer. These are all pretty easy projects, but you’ll be amazed by the sense of satisfaction you’ll have and how empowered you feel once you discover that you can do it yourself.

Copyright © 2006, Access 2000 Pty Ltd

Prefabricated Home Packages

Prefabricated Home Packages
By Diane Takahashi

This is by no means an exhaustive list of what's available in the area of prefabricated homes and buildings. This article is to introduce you to the world prefab. If you're in the industry, you'll probably be cringing about now at the word "prefab". But, the word is one that has become synonymous with homes and buildings that have been partially or fully assembled in a factory setting.
I for one am excited to see the latest versions of modern prefabs emerging globally. They're well thought out, beautiful, and energy-efficient.

And to anyone who has any doubts about the quality of today's prefab homes, I'd ask, would you rather buy a house whose parts have all been crafted outdoors exposed to the elements -- by hand. Or, would you rather buy a house built in a factory setting to tight specs exceeding that of site-built homes. I say exceeding, because a normal site-built home doesn't have to endure the rigors of transportation.

For your review, here are quick descriptions of 10 of the many categories of prefab homes available for exploring at http://PrefabExpo.com - in no particular order:

1. Manufactured

Single-family residential dwellings consisting of one, two or more sectional units and constructed to Federal HUD code. Zoning regulations and ordinances of the local Municipality or County might not permit use of mobile and manufactured homes in all areas of their jurisdiction.

2. Modular

Modular refers to a method of building a home, rather than a type of home. A modular home can be built in a factory from a stock modular home plan or from a customized plan, to the state, local or regional codes of where the home will be set up. Modular homes have not typically experienced the zoning restrictions and discriminative ordinances applicable to manufactured and mobile homes.

3. Panelized

Panelized homes are factory-built homes in which panels — whole walls with windows, doors, wiring, and outside siding — are transported to the site and assembled. Panels are made from insulating foam sandwiched between two layers of structural material. The panels are lightweight and might already be filled with insulation when they arrive on the site. The homes must meet the state or local building codes of where they are sited.

4. Steel-frame

Steel framing is an equivalent to conventional stick frame or post & beam home design where the structural lumber is replaced by steel studs and trusses or steel posts and beams. Light-Gauge Framing System features screw-together, galvanized stud-and-truss, grid-type construction system built on 4-foot center.Red-Iron Metal Post & Beam Systems features bolt-together, pre-engineered post-and-beam-type framing system that uses the red-iron steel "C" beams on 8-foot center. The prefabricated home built with this method can be single-story, two-story, and even tri-level home.
Unlike conventional wood framed home that requires interior walls to support the roof, the higher strength-to-weight ratio of steel house allows to span greater distances with less material and fewer supports. The result is higher floor layout and interior design flexibility.

Unlike wood, steel won't shrink, rot, warp, buckle, split, or be attacked by insects. This results in greater durability, lower long-term maintenance, higher energy efficiency and overall greater quality of this prefabricated home.

5. Precut

This category includes wood-framed factory-built houses or cabins where building materials are factory-cut to design specifications and transported to the site to be assembled. PrefabExpo.com presents prefab building kits designed as wood-framed (also known as balloon-frame, 2 x 4, 2 x 6 or stick-built construction) as well as prefabricated home kit / cabin kit using post-frame method. The homes or cabins must meet local or state building codes of the area where they will be sited.

6. Cedar

According to Katahdin Cedar Log Homes, cedar is aromatic to people, and problematic to insects: The heartwood of northern white cedar produces organic compounds called thujaplicins – which create that fresh, pleasant cedar aroma. But to insect pests, such as moths and termites, cedar just plain stinks. They’ll avoid cedar homes and instead search out inviting, tasty pine structures.

Cedar home kits include everything you need to build the home, itself. That is to say, the walls, the floor, the ceiling, the windows and doors. But your foundation, plumbing and electrical system are not usually included in a kit.

7. Timberframe

Timber framing is a specific type of post and beam construction in which a frame is created from solid wood timbers that are then connected by any one of the following wooden joints: mortise and tenon, dovetails, or scarfs secured with hardwood pegs. The frame is covered with any one of a number of enclosure systems. Normally the timbers remain exposed to the interior of the building.

Timber frame structures exhibit a strength and aesthetic quality not found in conventionally framed houses. The timbers are pre-cut, shaped, and finished at the factory, then sent to the construction site, where they can be quickly assembled by a crew, routinely using cranes to lift the bents and beams into place. The use of quality wood, enhanced by joinery that compares with fine cabinet making, maximizes the strength of the timberframe structure. Joinery is the heart of the entire structure.

8. Log

Log homes provide their owners with a comforting and relaxing sense of informality and simplicity. The mass of logs produces heating and cooling benefits, and reduces noise transmission into and throughout the home. These are very attractive characteristics, but there are also challenges in construction and limitations in decorating. These aspects require special design considerations and have unusual maintenance requirements.
Basic Kits Are...

WALLS ONLY: The walls-only log home package includes all the logs for the outside walls, including fasteners. Roof beams and staircases may be added.

STRUCTURAL SHELL: Shell This package includes everything that's in the walls-only package, plus all components necessary to keep the weather out, such as exterior doors, windows, and the roofing system.

THE COMPLETE PACKAGE: Complete packages also includes interior components required to finish log homes. Such items include interior walls, stairs, closets, interior doors and trim.

9. Circular

The circle is the strongest geometrical shape we recognize, and this factor likely influenced builders of circular homes for thousands of years. Prefabricated circular buildings have been built as cabins, studios, homes, offices or community halls and convention centers.
Most of today's prefabricated circular homes and cabins offered across the country use conventional wood-frame or post & beam construction method. These homes and cabins are ideally suited to take the full advantage of locations offering exciting panoramic views, and to incorporate factor of the surroundings into the home design.

10. Dome

Geodesic Dome is using triangular networks forming hexagons and pentagons and creating a free-span, spacious environment of spherically shaped structure requiring no internal supports. This results in large flexibility for utilizing interior space to implement floor designs not limited by structural restrictions. Because of the structural strength of the shape, the domes have a far better record of withstanding tornados, hurricanes and earthquakes than cube-shaped structures of conventional homes.
Advantages...

MATERIAL COSTS: Geodesic domes provide the greatest amount of floor area with the least amount of surface area, reducing the quantity of needed building material by as much as 30-50%.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY: As a result of the shape, the dome has approximately 30-50% less roof and wall area than cube-shaped home of equal floor space. This results in lesser area being exposed to the elements, resulting in reduction in heating and cooling costs of dome shaped structures. Also, the spherical shape of the dome facilitates natural air flow yielding more even temperatures maximizing overall interior temperature comfort.

Disadvantages...

As a result of complicated angles, the interior and exterior finishing of the dome (after speedy assembly of the prefabricated shell) is significantly more labor intensive than finishing the conventional house. Also, the finishing work requires highly skilled or specialized tradesmen which might not be available at every location. These factors might present welcoming challenge for skilled handyman - homebuilder, but would create substantial cost outlay if the hired labor is considered.

This piece was originally submitted by Diane Takahashi,who can be reached at prefabexpo@yahoo.com, or visited on the web. Diane is co-creator of http://PrefabExpo.com a subscription-based online database of prefabricated homes, cabins and buildings and their vendors.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Diane_Takahashi

SMALL DOG BREEDS FOR SMALL HOMES

Just because you live in a small home or apartment doesn’t mean you can’t have a dog. There are many small and toy breeds that make excellent pets for small homes. But even small dogs like variety and exercise, so it is important that you are prepared to spend time with your dog, take her for walks and ensure that she gets the best care. Once you have made that commitment to yourself, you can choose which breed of dog is most suitable to you and your lifestyle.

Small dog breeds make the cutest puppies, and one of the cutest small dog puppies around is the Maltese. This popular small dog breed generally grows to no more than six or seven pounds in weight, and has a beautiful white coat. The Maltese is a very ancient dog breed and has a strong constitution, though it should not be kept in very hot areas, due to the thick coat. The Maltese enjoys walks and is very playful. A great companion if you want a lively little pet and will enjoy the grooming chores.

Another delightful long haired small dog breed is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This lovely small dog is as courtly as its name and weighs about twice as much as a Maltese. The King Charles is a friendly and sociable small dog, well known for giving a lifetime of loyal attachment. This is the ideal dog if you prefer to lead a quiet life.

Top of the line in long haired small dog breeds is the Lowchen, as long as you enjoy spending long hours brushing, and don’t mind the hefty price tag. The beautiful `Little Lion’ dog can cost around $1000. A true indoors dog, the Lowchen is no exercise fanatic but owners have reported `separation anxiety’ to be a problem, so don’t get this dog breed if you are away for long hours every day.

If you want a pet with a shorter coat, try the Miniature Fox Terrier. This lively little dog will need lots of exercise, and appreciates having a collection of toys. Fox terriers can be yappy, so your pet may need to go to obedience school if she annoys the neighbors. This is a healthy and low maintenance dog breed, suitable for the owner who just wants to enjoy having a pet without all the grooming fuss.

A more sleek and elegant short haired pet is the Italian greyhound, and if you want a pet that enjoys exercise, this is the dog breed for you. Owners report that the Italian greyhound is a very well behaved dog, but prone to stress, so it is not a suitable pet where there are small children. This dog breed grows to a height of about 15 inches but is very lightweight – around 5 pounds.

The Welsh corgi is one of the classic small dog breeds, and very popular with Queen Elizabeth II of England. They will be popular with you, too, if you want a playful, affectionate pet. The Welsh corgi comes in two breeds, the Cardigan and the Pembrokeshire. The Pembrokeshire is smaller and more popular than the Cardigan, but both make faithful pets for small homes.

Finally, there is the ultimate small dog breed for apartment living – the toy poodle. Naturally popular in Europe, the toy poodle is somewhat high maintenance regarding its fluffy coat, but a surprisingly undemanding pet. Toy poodles love to play and appreciate having their own toys, but they are easy to train and adapt to their owners. Like most pets, the toy poodle prefers company to being left alone, but if you spend a lot of time away from home, perhaps you should think twice about getting a pet anyway!

Copyright © 2006, Access 2000 Pty Ltd

Obedience Basics for Puppies that Stay Home Alone; a Guide for Working Pet Owners

So, you’ve acquired a new puppy over the weekend and already you’re in love. But Monday morning rolls around and reality hits. How do you raise a well behaved canine while working away from the home?

In more than 50% of American households wives, as well as husbands, work out of the house, while children depart for school or the sitters. Training “Fido” not to use dad’s favorite slippers as chew toys or to refrain from soiling the carpet has become a frustrating challenge for many.

Though training a puppy that spends the majority of time home alone might be more of a challenge, it is not an impossible feat. You can still raise a well-behaved dog despite your busy schedule by following the insightful tips below.

Serious behavior problems in growing dogs usually develop around six months or older. Biting, chewing, jumping up on people, excessive barking, digging, and soiling are all avoidable bad-behavior habits if training is consistent and begins early.

When a puppy is adopted into a human family it leaves its mother and littermates. The pup leaves behind the security of the known and enters into the unknown. This can be a very scary and confusing time. It is also one of the most important times in the puppy’s life.

As the pup’s care giver, it is crucial for you to provide a sense of security and belonging. By consistently demonstrating love and affection, solid groundwork is laid for a loving, trusting bond between you and the puppy. Puppies so nurtured will grow into happy, confident dogs. Puppies denied the security of love consistently demonstrated and regular, positive attention will grow up fearful and full of anxiety. Training such a dog will be difficult, at best.

The very first “lesson” you should teach your new puppy, then, is that his new home is a place where he is loved and accepted. Once your puppy feels safe and loved, he is ready for obedience training.

Obedience training should begin early, and should become a regular part of your weekly routine until your dog has been properly trained. Sessions should be executed in a calm manner, and should always end on a positive note. Your puppy will look forward to each session if you praise his efforts, and do not yell in anger or frustration.

Physical punishment should not be doled out before the puppy is older and can fully grasp what you want from him. There is a difference between a dog requiring a firm hand because he behaves headstrong and willfully refuses to obey, and a dog requiring patience because he lacks confidence or does not quite understand what it is you are trying to teach him.

Training sessions should be kept to 15 minutes or less. A puppy’s attention span is much like a small child’s; interest soon wanes. Forcing a young puppy to endure sessions longer than 15 minutes will be frustrating for both you and the puppy. It would also be non productive, and sabotage training efforts.

A puppy that must stay alone for an eight hour day requires proper training to learn and accept that without excessive barking or other bad behavior. Since your puppy’s first learning experience begins the moment he enters your home, working people find it is easiest to bring a puppy home at the start of the weekend so that they have a few days to begin training.

Your puppy will need to learn to stay quietly in his pen until you decide he can come out. As difficult as it is, you must resist his cries and baby antics to get his own way. Resist the urge to pick the puppy up whenever he cries for attention. Be gentle, but be firm.

The easiest way to train your puppy that there are times when he must be confined to a pen, or certain area of a room, is to sit in the pen with him at different intervals during the first few days. This will help assure him that he will not be ignored while he is in his pen.

Go in and out of the pen as much as you wish, but firmly push the puppy back and close the gate when you leave. Praise the puppy when he is quiet in his pen; when he whines or barks, tell him “No” in a firm voice. Never allow the puppy out of the pen when he is noisy or barking. Allow him out of his pen only when he is quiet.

If he continues to bark after you have told him “No,” slap a rolled newspaper on your open hand while repeating with more emphasis, “No!” The noise will startle the puppy and distract him long enough for you to praise his silence. Be consistent, and this training will pay off. There’s nothing neighbors dislike more than a dog that barks continually every time he’s left alone.

Dogs often respond to aggressive provocation and fear in the same way; by biting. Many dogs also bite and nip during play. Puppies especially are notorious for playfully biting and nipping. While some care givers feel such “rough housing” is harmless, or even cute, puppies should be taught early not to bite or nip. They also have to learn not to struggle or squirm when picked up.

Even a puppy that will be too large to pick up once fully grown needs to learn this lesson. There will be various times in his life – during an examination at the vet’s, while being groomed, or when sick or injured – that he will have to accept being picked up or held down patiently, without struggling or biting.

Start the lesson by sitting on the floor and picking up the puppy. While holding the pup firmly, speak in affectionate, soothing tones. Tuck the pup’s back end under your arm, with your elbow tight against his outside rear hip. This provides a good, strong hold that will make the puppy feel secure. Any puppy will attempt to free himself for fear of falling, if he is not held securely.

If he is small enough, grasp his front paws with the same hand. This will leave your other hand free to pet or discipline the dog.

Some puppies love to be picked up and held, and will immediately relax. Other puppies will squiggle, squirm, and nip to be released. They must be taught to endure being handled.

If the puppy struggles, pet his head and continue to talk to him in soothing tones. If he does not quiet down, give him a little shake and firmly say, “No.”

If he tries to nip or mouth your hand, hold his mouth closed for a few seconds, and repeat, “No,” then release his mouth. Continue this lesson until the puppy learns to remain calm and accept being held. The minute the pup becomes quiet and accepts your handling, praise him. Remember, praise for obedience is one of the most important tools for successful obedience training.

Training a young puppy to accept handling is always done gently but firmly. Under no circumstances handle the puppy roughly, or strike the puppy. Older puppies and dogs can be trained more firmly when they resist handling. (Note: Don’t confuse the terms “young puppy” and “older puppy” with how small or large the puppy is. Distinctions are attributed to age relevancy, not size.)

Until your puppy is completely toilet trained, he should be confined to a certain area of the house and not allowed to roam at will. This can be in a particular room, or cage. Not only will this save you frustration by not having multiple areas of the house soiled before the puppy is completely toilet trained, but dog psychologists agree that puppies feel more secure in a reasonably small enclosed area.

Newspapers should cover the floor of the area. Plenty of clean, fresh water should be available at all times. Using a heavy bowl will help prevent accidental spills. A clean bed (an old blanket or towel works nicely) should also be provided for warmth and for comfort, as well as toys to chew and play with. Like human babies, puppies need toys for entertainment; chewing helps alleviate gum discomfort caused by growing teeth.

When it comes to toilet training, do not expect too much, too soon. No one can expect a puppy to stay alone for a full eight hour day. A puppy under five months old will need to be put outside to relieve himself every 4 – 5 hours. This means that you or another family member will have to go home at lunch or break time to let him out.

This may seem like a hardship, but it is important and will only be for a few months. It is the only way to affectively toilet train a puppy. The puppy will soon adjust to your schedule and will stay clean until taken out of doors at noon, and again in the evening.

By balancing gentleness with firmness, being consistent with patience and love, and by following the above tips, both you and your puppy will benefit. Your pup will be well on his way to becoming the well-behaved canine companion you desire.

Copyright © 2006, Access 2000 Pty Ltd

Does Your Pet Need an Exercise Program?

Pet owners are being urged to make sure their animal companions get enough exercise to keep them healthy. Purdue University wellness veterinarian Lorraine Corriveau says pets, as well as people, should get 30 to 45 minutes of daily exercise. Veterinarians estimate that 25 percent of dogs and cats are obese. Those extra pounds can cause a multitude of health problems for your pet.

Obese dogs run the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure just like their human counterparts. Both dogs and cats are also at an increased risk for diabetes if they are obese. Other animal health problems that stem from obesity include difficulty breathing, and skin and joint problems. So it makes sense to put your pet on an exercise program if they are overweight. The question is how do you determine if rover or tiger should shed a few pounds?

Corriveau offers these tips to help you determine if your pet is overweight:
- Does your pet have a bulging waistline when you look down at them from above?
- Does your pet's belly sag and/or wobble side to side?
- You should be able to easily feel your pet's ribs.
- A good estimate of the ideal body weight for a dog or cat is the weight they were when they first reached adulthood.

If you determine that your pet needs to slim down a bit, here are some suggestions on how to make sure they get enough exercise.

- Take your pet for walks – you can leash train cats as well as dogs.

- Dogs love to run after a ball or stick that you throw.

- Take a flashlight and let your cat leap and jump around following the beam of light.

- Treadmills are trendy for both people and pets, but make sure you research the correct way to exercise your companion animal on these machines so you don't injure them.

You may also need to consult with a veterinarian to find the correct weight-management program for your companion animal since you may be feeding your pet too many calories. Your veterinarian can help you determine exactly how much food is needed for your pet to get enough nutrients to stay healthy and still lose weight.

Copyright © 2006, Access 2000 Pty Ltd

Fight Flea Season and Win

For those of us who have pets, fighting fleas can sometimes seem like a losing battle. The pesky little creatures can be hardy warriors and when we think we’ve just about conquered them and taken back our territory, we get bitten when we’re least expecting it. We arm ourselves with powders, shampoos, sprays, and collars and end up spending more money than we intended only to find that the enemy camp hasn’t been completely destroyed. So should we throw down our weapons and surrender? Of course not.

You may not be able to eliminate fleas entirely especially if you live in a warm climate where flea season is all year long but good preparation and a consistent routine can help keep fleas under control. Fleas are an irritant to people as well as pets. If your dog or cat has the run of the house so do the fleas. In other words, if you allow your pet to sleep on the sofa or your bed the fleas will be bunking there too. They will be found in your carpet, furniture, bed linen and anywhere else your pet spends time.

Flea infestations in pets can cause skin irritations and even hair loss. It seems as if they prey on pets that are ill, weak or have lowered immune systems. So consequently, the healthier the pet is the less chance of flea infestation. At the first sign of fleas we usually head out to stock up on flea control products but we don’t often realize that many commercial repellants can be just as bad for our pets as the fleas that plague them. These products contain harmful insecticides and by using products such as these, our pets, especially those that may have sensitivity can also experience skin irritations, hair loss or illness of some sort. Flea powders can cause severe skin conditions in sensitive pets and should never be used on young kittens or puppies, sick or weak animals. Cats especially are prone to ingest the chemicals found in flea powders because they are constantly cleaning themselves by licking their fur.

There are natural measures we can take in the fight against fleas. A good variety of herbal flea control products exist that are effective against fleas and non-toxic to your pet. Regular cleaning is a must to prevent flea infestation. Steam clean your carpets and vacuum often and thoroughly. Wash blankets, bed linen, throw pillows, throw rugs and other washable items that your pet may lie on in hot water. Keep your pet healthy and the house clean.

If your pet is permitted to go outdoors it may be best to wear a flea collar on the animal. You may prefer to purchase one of the herbal type collars. The pet should also be shampooed periodically with a mild pet or herbal shampoo. If you have a cat then you know that bathing a feline can be a challenging experience. You may be one of the lucky ones to have a cat that actually doesn’t mind being bathed but most cats have a natural aversion to water. One good thing is that cats don’t normally need to be bathed as often as dogs since they are adamant about self-grooming.

Some people swear by certain home remedies that may have a certain degree of effectiveness. One such remedy is to add a small amount of lemon juice to the rinse water when giving the pet a bath to repel fleas and aid in the healing of fleabites. Other suggestions include the addition of brewer’s yeast and garlic to the pet’s food as natural flea repellants. Although I’ve tried these methods and not seen any significant difference in flea control, I have noticed that a bit of lemon juice in the rinse water does seem to make a pet’s fur shine. Whether you choose to try alternative methods or not, good health and regular cleaning seems to be the best defense against fleas. Before trying any radical methods of flea control or in the event that flea infestation causes health problems consult your veterinarian. Fight flea season and win.

Copyright © 2006, Access 2000 Pty Ltd

Proper Nutrition for a Healthy Pet

You may think you feed your pet well but there may be little nutritional value in the daily diet of your cat or dog. We all look for ways to budget and save money but spending a little more on commercial pet foods to ensure your pet’s health is well worth it. Cheap dry foods are usually filled with preservatives and harmful ingredients. Many commercial pet foods, especially the less expensive brands don’t provide our pets with the amount of proteins, vitamins and minerals that they need for optimum health. Often they contain waste products, fillers, artificial preservatives and other ingredients that are not healthy.

Cats and dogs should have raw meat and vegetables added to their diet as these foods contain the most vitamins and minerals. While moist commercial pet foods may contain more nutrients than dry food, vitamin and mineral supplements may still be needed to ensure proper nutrition. While cats are a little more finicky about their cuisine, most cats and dogs eat food items similar to humans.

It seems to be a popular trend these days to cook for one’s pets. I know quite a few people who cook such meals as meatloaf for their dogs to cheese omelets for their cats, not to mention homemade biscuits and other treats. For those who choose to prepare meals for their pets, this is fine but do keep in mind the importance of adding raw food to the pet’s diet as well. We all know that cooking removes much of the nutrients from food so in order for the diet to be healthy it needs to be well balanced.

Vitamins can be essential to keeping your pet healthy especially if they suffer from a vitamin deficiency or a poor immune system. For example, Vitamin E helps to fight disease and Vitamin C boosts immunity and protects against infection. Certain vitamin deficiencies may produce physical symptoms. For instance, a deficiency in Vitamin B may manifest itself in symptoms such as skin allergies or eye problems. Many behavior problems may be the result of vitamin deficiencies as well.

You can add other supplements such as iron to your pet’s diet too. Fresh garlic added to pet’s food can help boost the immune system and also helps to repel fleas. A little apple cider vinegar added to the food or water helps improve skin conditions and keeps the fur healthy. Pet owners may want to consider adding kelp, which can be purchased at a health food store, to the diet. It is rich in most vitamins and minerals.

You can also add new food to the pet’s diet gradually so that their digestive system has time to adjust to the new diet. Abrupt changes in diet can cause stomach upset such as vomiting or diarrhea. When purchasing commercial pet foods keep in mind that labels are sometimes misleading. Try to feed your pet a healthy balanced diet. If you have any concerns about your pet’s diet or adding vitamins, minerals or other supplements to your pet’s feeding schedule consult your veterinarian. He or she should be able to address any concerns you may have as well as make suggestions or provide alternative solutions to any problems your pet may have in dietary adjustments. A healthy diet leads to a healthy, happy pet.

Copyright © 2006, Access 2000 Pty Ltd

Room Painting 101

Room Painting 101

Painting a room is the least expensive way to make a dramatic impact. You can change the entire look and feel of a room with a couple of coats of paint. Before you just start slapping paint onto the walls, you should do a bit of planning.

First, determine the color you want. A lot of people don’t put enough time into choosing the best color. Once you’ve painted the room, you’ll realize how much work it is and how much you don’t want to do it again.

Don’t just go by the convenient little cardboard color samples at the home improvement store. Once you find a color you like, have someone mix up a quart, then actually test it out at the store. Let it dry, and make sure you’re happy with the color. Paints can dry in interesting ways that make them sometimes look completely different from the mixture in the container. If you’re not happy with it, keep looking until you find the color you really want.

Buy high quality, easy-to-remove painter’s tape. A lot of people use regular masking tape. It might be cheaper, but it can peel off what you’ve already painted. When it comes time to tape off painted surfaces, this tape is well worth the money.

Buy proper rollers and brushes. If you have a large area to paint, the extended rollers are a good investment. As long as you clean them, you can use them many times. Invest in decent brushes in multiple sizes. You don’t want to paint trim with a giant brush or buy the cheap brushes that will leave bristles on your freshly painted walls.

Paint the ceiling first! If you have a popcorn ceiling, you need to buy a special roller that will give you better cover on rough surfaces. It’s also a good idea to invest in a paint roller extension and a plastic sleeve that fits on the handle of the roller to protect you from drips. Most people keep the ceiling white or off-white. If you paint the ceiling a dark color, it can make the room seem smaller and very dark, even with sufficient lighting. Before you paint the ceiling, tape the edges of the walls. Yes, you’re about to paint them, but you don’t want gooey drips to dry and give your walls strange little bumps.

With painting, preparation is key. Don’t get too excited and skip tape and floor covering. You can buy special tape to put on the baseboards that already has plastic attached. You apply the tape then just roll out the plastic to make sure the floor is covered. Be sure to remove light switch and electrical covers. Don’t be lazy, or you’ll regret it later. Once everything is taped or removed, you can start painting.

You should always do the edges and brush areas first. The main parts where you can use rollers go much faster, so you won’t have to worry about areas drying before you finish your first coat. Follow the instructions on the paint can. Wait the amount of time suggested between coats, and open all the windows to give yourself proper ventilation. Be sure to clean all of your brushes and rollers thoroughly, and let them dry completely before you use them again.

If you want to paint the trim, make sure all coats of your wall paint have dried completely. Tape around the trim, and remove doorknobs and doorjambs. It’s a simple step, and it makes everything look a lot better. Save any leftover paint for future touch-ups, and leave the windows open until the paint is completely dry.

Copyright © 2006, Access 2000 Pty Ltd

Keep Your Dog Heart Healthy

Heartworms are parasites that live in the heart of dogs. A dog can become infected through the bite of a mosquito and infestation can be transferred from one dog to another in like manner. The worms travel through the animal’s blood until eventually reaching and settling in the heart.

Coughing and difficulty breathing can be symptoms that the dog is infected with heartworms. If left untreated it can lead to heart failure and death. A few worms may not cause any immediate problem and the dog may not exhibit any signs of infestation. Dogs that remain outdoors all of the time may be more prone to become infected than indoor dogs. Although cats may become infected also, heartworm infestation is much more likely to occur in dogs.

If only a few worms are present the dog may not need immediate treatment but prevention is best and early treatment may prove the best course of action for the animal. Heartworm infestation is serious and should not be left untreated for any length of time. It can be very debilitating for an animal that is otherwise ill or elderly. Once diagnosed, hospitalization may be required for the pet suffering from such an infestation.

While there are preventive drugs that can be administered a veterinarian should be consulted since many of these drugs have undesirable side effects that can affect the animal’s well being as well. As with any illness, healthy dogs may have a better resistance to such infestations. A strong immunity is a good defense against illness. You can boost your pet’s immunity by feeding your dog a healthy diet and making sure that your pet gets plenty of exercise. Your veterinarian can suggest vitamin supplements if necessary.

While diet and exercise alone cannot prevent heartworms, proper nutrition can help your dog’s body to be better prepared to fight against infection and infestation. Although there is no way to completely eliminate the threat of heartworm you can talk to your veterinarian about the use of preventive medication and if at all possible try not to leave your dog outside all of the time. Get informed about heartworm and help your dog to live a long and healthy life.

Copyright © 2006, Ian White

Cork: A New Breed of Flooring

When it comes time for a homeowner to update their flooring many choose from wood, tile or vinyl but cork flooring, which has been used in Europe since the last century, is gaining popularity in North America due to its low maintenance, durability and insulating properties.

A completely natural and renewable resource, cork is harvested by peeling it from the cork tree without the tree incurring any damage. Once stripped of its bark the cork tree will grow another layer of cork within nine years and continue to do so for 150 to 200 years, making it an environmentally sound choice.


For those looking for a long lasting, low maintenance flooring cork fits the bill on both counts. Made up of honeycomb-like pockets that trap air, cork flooring resists wear by its ability to regain its shape no matter how much foot traffic it endures or how long furniture has sat on it. Repairs, should they be necessary, are also done with ease. Instead of having to replace the entire floor the homeowner can simply mix shavings from a spare piece of cork, mix with polyurethane, and fill any divots.

Those same pockets of air that provide durability to cork flooring also impart both sound and temperature insulation. This completely natural product provides a perfect marriage between the warmth and sound dampening properties of carpet with the ease of clean up associated with tile. To clean your cork flooring simply vacuum regularly and wipe up spills with a damp cloth and a mild detergent.

Another benefit of cork flooring is that it is hypoallergenic. With an every increasing number of homeowners finding the need to avoid carpets due to allergies to dust or dust mites, cork flooring provides a healthy alternative. Also, due to cork flooring’s water resistance it is excellent flooring for bathrooms in order to provide warmth to the floor while avoiding allergy inducing molds.

If home fashion is at the forefront of the homeowners mind cork proves to be the chameleon of the flooring industry. Available in a wide array of colors, from the traditional honey tones to green, red or even black, cork can also be stained or stenciled in order to match a future change in décor without having to change your current flooring.

Therefore, with its durability, insulating properties, and ability to fit into almost any décor, cork flooring may just become the front runner in the minds of homeowners looking for the next generation in floor coverings.

Copyright © 2006, Ian White

Preparing Your Home for Storm Season

Tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, high winds, and hail can all do tremendous damage to your biggest investment, your home. While violent weather can erupt at any time, the most severe and damaging storms often arrive between March and August, with the height of the storm season usually occurring throughout the spring months (March through May).

This guide will help you prepare your home, your belongings, and your family to avoid the negative effects of severe weather:

Before Storm Season

1. First, visit your insurance provider and go over your policy to make sure that you have appropriate insurance coverage for your home, property, and belongings in case of storm damage. If you are in a flood prone area, remember that flood insurance is not a staple in homeowner's insurance policies.

2. Trim, or have a professional trim, any trees, bushes, or large plants that are near your home to avoid damage. Strong winds can bend trees, causing them to hit your home, which may damage siding, windows, doors, or the roof. It doesn't take a tornado to cause serious damage or injury. Falling limbs can also be problematic, so have any that are damaged, unstable, or those that overhang your home or garage removed.

3. If possible, replace the glass in your home with wind and impact resistant glass. If replacing the glass is not currently feasible, learn about safety film that can be used to cover glass to help prevent shattering. It is also prudent to install storm shutters. Shutters will protect your windows but more importantly will protect the interior of your home and especially your family, from glass that may shatter during severe weather.

4. Sliding glass doors are especially dangerous, and do not forget about skylights. If you cannot employ any of the above protective methods before severe weather arrives, cover large areas of glass with plywood, a tarp, or winterizing plastic for some temporary protection.

5. Purchase a non-electric radio, preferably one that has access to the NOAA weather band for up to the minute weather information, or at least a radio that can clearly receive a local station. Make sure fresh batteries are available at all times, or purchase an emergency radio that is powered by solar energy or one that features a hand crank to charge it up when needed.

6. Make sure at least one working flashlight with fresh batteries is also available, since the power may go out and you may be left without electricity for several hours. Using candles during violent weather is not advised, in case of gas leaks. A flashlight is also helpful for getting someone else's attention should you need to be rescued. Look for a flashlight or radio that includes a personal alarm or siren for this purpose.

7. If your electric service is frequently interrupted during severe weather, consider purchasing a generator. You may also want to purchase or put together a survival kit. There are many different types of generators and survival kits available in assorted price ranges.

When Storms are Predicted


1. Move vulnerable items to a safe location. Put your car inside the garage, move patio furniture, lawn equipment, bicycles, and other items such as barbeque grills into the garage or shed. Anything that cannot be moved to another location should be tied down to avoid causing damage or injury if thrown by strong wind.

2. Close awnings to avoid updrafts of air that could tear them away from your home and cause them to break windows, slam against your house, or cause injury. Close the garage door to protect your vehicle and other items enclosed within.

3. Unplug your appliances and electronic equipment before the storm hits, if you have warning. Surge protectors only work to prevent or reduce damage caused by power spikes and surges; they cannot prevent damage from lightning.

4. Unplug your phone. Unplug the phone line from the jack and unplug the power base from the electrical outlet. Stay off land based phones during storms, especially phones with cords. If you have plenty of warning before the storm, charge your cell phone before the storm arrives. You may need access to emergency services, or you may just want to alert family members and friends that you are safe.

5. Move to a safe location in your home (see "Preparing a Safe Zone" below). The basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of the home is the best choice. Stay away from doors, windows, and anything that conducts electricity.

Preparing a Safe Zone

Consider constructing a safe room or a storm cellar. There are various plans and kits available to help you prepare a safe location for your family during severe weather threats.

You can also transform an existing space in your home into a modestly safe zone for your family on your own. One of the first steps is to choose an area that does not have windows, or to replace windows with safety glass. Even if you cannot replace all the glass in your home, it should be affordable to do in a single room.

The safe zone should be on the lowest floor, and should be protected by interior walls. There should be enough space for the entire family including pets. Let neighbors or extended family members know where the safe zone is located, in case of emergency. If severe damage occurs, they will know where to find you.

Make sure the room has something that can be used for cover. Supply the room with a heavy table or at least a mattress to hide under to protect against debris. This is a good area to store sleeping bags and heavy blankets, which can also be used for cover, and may be needed after a storm.

Store your emergency items in this room, and develop a family plan for reaching the safe zone in case of severe weather. Keep bottled water, non-perishable snacks, medicines, and a first aid kit or survival kit in this space as well.

Copyright © 2006, Ian White

Get Informed Before Choosing to Get Your Cat De-clawed

Should you get your cat de-clawed? This is a question that cat owners may find themselves mulling over. Although you may love your feline friend you don’t relish having your furniture at the mercy of your cat’s claws. It is only natural that cat owners become frustrated when feline scratching is ruining carpets, furniture, wood floors or surfaces and other household items. Although providing the kitty with a scratching post may lessen the problem it might not eliminate the undesirable behavior.

Cat owners may come to the conclusion that de-clawing their cat is the best solution. It is not. Many people are totally against such action. Personally, I agree that to de-claw a cat is not an option to be considered. Often people that are thinking of de-clawing are not as informed as they should be. People may have the misguided perception that de-clawing a cat is a simple and relatively painless procedure. It is not. It is a painful amputation. Imagine having a joint removed from your fingers. De-clawing can affect a cat’s balance and leave them defenseless.

You may feel that your cat doesn’t need to defend itself if it is an indoor pet but anything can happen and your cat may suddenly find itself outdoors with no claws for defense. A window or door may accidentally be left open and the cat may wander outside. Even cats that have never been outside before, show no interest or seem to fear the outdoors have been known to investigate from time to time. The sight of a bird or the sound of another cat could be the bait that lures your feline beyond the safety of its indoor surroundings.

Cats that have been de-clawed may begin to exhibit behavioral changes. Otherwise outgoing, friendly cats may become extremely timid or shy. Some may become more aggressive and start to bite. It must also be understood that there can always be complications with surgery although it may be rare. Infection could set in, requiring extended treatment; there is the possibility of hemorrhage or even an allergic reaction to the anesthesia used. Even if all goes well, the recovery is painful.

When we decide to take on the responsibility to accept a feline companion into our homes we have to keep in mind that it is part of a cat’s natural instinct to scratch. We can bring them into our homes, train them and care for them but their natural instincts will remain. Some veterinarians will not perform the de-clawing procedure. The fact is that de-clawing is inhumane. Don’t make the decision lightly. In fact, choose not to make the decision to de-claw at all.

Copyright © 2005 Ian White

How to Cat-Proof Your Home

If you are planning on bringing home a new kitten it is in your best interest, as well as the interest of the cat, to make a few modifications to your home. Cats are, simply by nature, incredibly curious. However, with a little bit of caution you can keep your home safe for your curious cat.

Plants If you are unable to remove your plants, or unable to place them in a room away from the cat, dust the leaves with cayenne pepper or Tabasco sauce. It is also a good idea to place gravel or aluminum foil over the soil to prevent the cat from digging. Eating some plants can be fatal for cats—so check to make sure your plant is non-toxic. If your cat is persistent, try hanging your plants safely out of reach. Stopping your cat from chewing on your plant keeps both the cat and the plant safe.

Breakables Leaving breakables within your cat’s reach can be dangerous for your cat and will most likely result in the destruction of your valuables. Before you bring your cat home, confirm that breakable items are out of the cat’s reach. Jumping onto high surfaces is common cat behavior—and if your cat knocks something over during the process it could easily cut its paw on the sharp fragments.

Hanging Blind Cords Hanging blind cords are tremendously tempting for cats of all ages and can look like a great opportunity for entertainment. However, keep in mind that cats can easily become tangled in the cord and the entanglement can have disastrous results. It is best to keep blind cords up and inaccessible.

Electrical Cords Just as electrical cords can be dangerous for a teething infant, they can be a serious hazard for your cat. To your cat, electrical cords are just another source of amusement. Do your best to keep cords away from your cat by taping them together and fastening them out of your cat’s reach.

Clothes Dryer Cats are drawn to clothes dryers—and it can be easy to forget to check before turning it on. Make certain that you keep the clothes dryer door closed at all times to prevent any accidents.

Windows and Screens Check all of your windows and screens. Screens should be sturdy and in good condition, otherwise the cat could push them out or tear it off.

Bathtubs and Toilets As you know, cats are extremely curious creatures. Your new cat may feel the need to explore, and it is easy for a cat to fall into a toilet or a partially-filled bathtub. Even if your cat could swim, it is possible that they might not be able to climb out. To prevent your cat from injuring itself, or drowning, keep the toilet lid closed and the bathroom door shut while the tub is full.

Reclining Chairs Reclining chairs can seem like the perfect hiding place to a cat, but reclining chairs can trap and seriously injure a cat so make sure you check for your cat’s presence before returning to an upright position.

Candles A burning flame is an enticing site for a playful cat. To prevent your cat from unknowingly burning itself, ensure that your candles are placed safely out of your cats range.

By following these tips, as well as implementing your own knowledge and common sense, you can help guarantee your cat’s safety.

Vacation Safety Tips for Your Home

It’s vacation time and you are happy to get away, but first remember to prepare your home before you leave. Put your home on vacation while you are away, and your worries will be on vacation as well. As the most expensive possession that you own, the safety and security of your home should take priority.

The steps to securing your home and preparing it for an uneventful return are simple and pain free, especially if you have been good about keeping up with certain things before hand. Follow the simple suggestions in the following strategies guideline to prepare your home during its brief respite from family occupation.

Strategies and Safety Tips for Your Home

Utilities

 Electric- The smallest appliance can cause a fire if the wiring is faulty. Unplug all electronic equipment, computers, televisions, lamps, toasters, microwaves, and unnecessary appliances prior to leaving. Remember to leave the refrigerator plugged in, as well as any appliances that are attached to timer devices that will be in operation while you are away.
 Gas- If the Gas Company will turn off and re-ignite your gas pilot light free or for a minimal charge, then, you may want to consider shutting off this pilot light. Do not attempt to do this yourself, unless you have the proper training.
 Water- Turn off the main valve before you leave. This will prevent inside flooding and damage, should a pipe burst while you are away. Also, turn off outside faucets to prevent small children, in the neighborhood, with idle curiosity from turning them on and leaving the water run. If you have an outdoor irrigation system without its own shutoff valve, then you will have to forego this step. If you are planning to get an irrigation system for your lawn and garden in the future, remember to plan for an individual shut off for it.
 Telephone- Clear old, incoming messages prior to leaving to free up space for any new messages. Do not leave a new away message that tells everyone you are away on a vacation. Anyone who needs to know, already does, and there isn’t any point in alerting potential burglars.

Services

 Trash- Burglars who are casing the neighborhood are sure to notice a change in routine, especially if all of the neighbors have their trash out on the curbside. Ask a close neighbor to take your trashcan down to the curb and to replace it afterwards. If you are going to be away for an entire summer, you may want to check with your trash company for a break in your collection fee.
 Recycles- Follow the same procedure as with your trash.


 Mail- If you are only going to be away for a few days, then ask a neighbor to pickup and hold your mail for you. If you are going to be away longer, call your post office and have them put a hold on your mail delivery. You can easily pick it up when you arrive back from your vacation.
 Newspaper delivery- A pile of newspapers is a sure giveaway that no one is home and hasn’t been for a while. Ask a neighbor to collect and save your newspapers for you on a daily basis. If you do not have someone who can do this for you, call and ask the newspaper company to discontinue delivery for the days that you will be away.
 Ups/FedEx- Ask a neighbor to check for packages that you are expecting and hold them for you. This will prevent possible theft of the package.

Safety Features

 Windows- Windows should be securely locked. Curtains, blinds, and drapes should be fully drawn to prevent anyone from looking inside to see what they can see. If possible, further secure your window by placing a metal rod or wooden bar in such a way that it will prevent the window from being opened, in the event that someone does break the glass pane to gain entrance.
 Shrubbery- Shrubbery should be trimmed away from the window to prevent potential burglars from hiding there. If you have not kept up with this throughout the year, now is a good time to trim the bushes back. Remember to trim any shrubbery near your doors as well.
 Outside lighting- Hopefully, you have already installed motion detector lights on the outside of your home and garage. If not, do so now provided you have the time. Motion detector lights are great deterrents for burglars. Try to position them on the corners of the buildings so that they catch motion from an angle and can detect someone coming around the corner. Remember to position them up high so that someone cannot disable them by unscrewing the light bulbs. Also, if you have previously had the lights installed, remember to check that the bulbs still work.
 Inside lighting- Pick up a few timing devices and set them up in different locations within the home. The minimal expense is well worth the peace of mind. Set the devices up in an arrangement that makes it look as though you are still there. Start in the living room or kitchen and work your way to the bedroom. The devices can also be attached to a radio, preferably on a talk show.
 Doors- All of the doors should be securely locked, including any storm doors that you will not need to use upon returning home. Motion light detectors should have the doorways targeted with their sensors.
 Valuables- Obviously, your valuables are important to you. Attempt to place your valuables in a safe, safety deposit box, or at the very least, a locked closet. It is very important for you to have a list of all of the serial numbers for anything of value that might be stolen, including, but not limited to, televisions, computer equipment, DVD players, CD changers, VCRs, cameras, and any electronic equipment.
 Garage- Remember to lock any doors to the garage upon leaving for your trip. Unplug the garage door opener since it is still possible to use them if the power is connected.
 Secrecy- If possible, pack behind closed garage doors to prevent potential burglars or vandals from knowing that you will be away.

Maintenance
 Cleaning up- Put away anything in the yard that a potential burglar could use. Also, put away anything of value that might disappear while you are gone.
 Mold/mildew- If you live in a home that is prone to mold or mildew, do a once over in the trouble spots with a mild bleach solution. This should help to keep the problem from occurring while you are gone.
 Dust- Dust is simply one of those things that occur naturally in life. Give the house a quick dusting and there will be less of it when your vacation is over.
 Laundry- You will have enough dirty laundry when you come home. Launder and put away all laundry that you have before going on your trip.
 Dishes- Simple task that it is, wash, dry, and put away all dishes, silverware, and pans before you leave.
 Plants- Either prepare your plants to survive alone or ask a friend or neighbor that you trust to come over and water your plants for you. Several strategies for self-watering include purchasing self-watering wicks for the plants or creating your own with strips of felt, placing wet, tightly crumpled newspapers on top of the soil of large plants, and placing smaller plants that are in a container with holes at the bottom in a dish of pebbles or marbles with water. Placing all of your plants together so that they can create and share the humidity is also a helpful strategy. It is actually better to give your friend a key, rather than hide it somewhere outside your home.
 Air freshener- Place a few air fresheners or boxes of baking soda throughout your home if you intend to be away for a while. This will prevent the air from getting too stale smelling or musty while you are away.


Pet care

 Arrange to board your pets or for a friend or neighbor to take them in or visit and care for them. Remember to have a sufficient supply of food available. Also, remember to have the phone number and address of your veterinarian available for an emergency.

Outdoor Maintenance

 Pool- Even if you have a self-chlorinator, it is important to have someone check on your pool while you are away. Remember to latch any gates, remove any furniture that wandering children might use to climb into your pool, and secure any pool chemicals.
 Lawn- Put away all of your lawn and outdoor tools and vehicles in a secure location. Mow the lawn prior to leaving if possible.
 Plants

Savings

 Thermostat- Turn down the settings on the hot water heater and heating thermostats while you are gone. No need to heat what you are not using. The monetary savings will be minimal, but appreciated.
 Unplug- Today’s newer appliances draw electricity even when they are not turned on and in use. Unplugging them will save energy and lower the electric bill, as well as providing a safety measure. Following this step will also prevent damage from power surges also.
 Food- Remember not to overbuy perishables immediately before going on vacation. They probably won’t survive the time that you are away. Freeze anything that can withstand freezing. Throw away anything that will begin to rot while you are gone to prevent unpleasant odors upon your return home.

Following these simple strategies will ensure a pleasant return home. Remember to enlist the rest of the immediate family in accomplishing these tasks to make it as quick and easy as possible. With your home safe and snug, you will be able to relax and enjoy your vacation.

By Ian White ©2006

Organizing Your Garage

Organizing Your Garage
By Ian White ©2006

Let’s face it, for some people; a car is the last thing that is going to fit into their garage. Many garages are filled with useless clutter and junk that simply has no other place to be stored. Effectively organizing your garage can be an intimidating but very worthwhile task.

First things first, you need to go through every item in your garage inventory and make the decision to either keep it or toss it. You’ll be surprised at the amount of items you’re putting into your junk pile. If you’re not comfortable with simply throwing these items away, you can organize a garage sale and get some quick cash for your unwanted belongings. If you haven’t got the time, donating your items to charity can help free up some space, and you’ll be doing a good deed at the same time. Many charitable organizations will make it very easy for you to get rid of your things and simply stop by and take them off your hands for you.

Once you’ve gotten rid of everything you don’t need to keep, take a careful survey of what you’ve got left. Based on the remaining items, you’ll know exactly how much storage space you’ll need, and more importantly, what kind you’ll need.

Maximizing floor space can be difficult, especially with all of the large objects in your garage. If you simply haven’t got enough room, you can construct an additional storage shed in your backyard to make additional space for your clutter.

The easiest method of organizing your garage is by using shelving and containers. You can construct your own from simple blueprints found for free online, or you can purchase a cheap solution at any hardware store. These shelves will allow you to stack things vertically, taking advantage of precious space you didn’t have before. Boxes and containers can help to organize tools or other related items that should be grouped together. Having an entire box dedicated to your plumbing supplies or your seasonal holiday decorations will make it very easy to locate these things in the future.

If you’ve got a lot of tools, consider purchasing a large tool chest to accommodate them all. Not only will this help improve organization, it will extend the life of your tools by making sure they’re kept clean and away from anything that might damage or degrade their quality. By installing pegboard onto a wall of your garage, you can hang more of the tools that might not fit into the toolbox.

Purchasing cheap Rubbermaid cabinets can help create additional space for whatever else is left. These cabinets can be assembled to the precise size you need, and then either stacked on the floor or fastened to the wall.

Follow these guidelines and you’ll be able to park your car where it belongs in no time!

Ian White ©2006

Home Maintenance Tips You Can’t Afford to Ignore

Home Maintenance Tips You Can’t Afford to Ignore

Without a doubt, buying a home can be the largest investment you’ll ever make. With the average home costing approximately $190,000, many homeowners take great pains to ensure that all cosmetic and structural repairs are attended to. However, the truth is that many expensive repairs could be avoided by simply sticking to a routine maintenance schedule. Routinely checking your home for emerging problems will prevent larger, more expensive problems that leave homeowners scrambling for a quick repair—rather than a cost-effective one. Clearly, regular home maintenance is something you can’t afford to ignore.

When to Inspect
Spring is a good time to begin assessing your home for any damage or repairs that need attending to. A good rule of thumb is to check your home at the same time you change your fire alarm batteries—at the beginning (spring) and end (fall) of daylight saving’s time. Doing so will ensure that minor repairs don’t turn into major expenses. Some components of your home may require less-frequent monitoring (foundation), and some may require more (changing the furnace filter). However, taking a walkthrough of your home twice yearly is a good rule of thumb to begin with.

Who Should Inspect
If you feel unqualified to asses every crack and unidentified water leak in your home, feel free to hire a handy man. Not only will he be able to spot any problems, but he can also advise on repairs and costs right on the spot. Do you want a thorough evaluation? Hire a home inspector. Do keep in mind, however, that home inspectors cost much more (around $300) and may not necessarily find every problem.

In most instances, though, simply paying attention to your home is all it takes to spot any emerging problems. For example, if your toilet runs all the time, chances are it needs to be repaired. Have you noticed that your doors don’t shut properly anymore? That could be a sign of foundation settling or warping. Simply making a list of things around your home that seem “off” can make your inspection process much easier. No matter what your plans, the following items are a good place to start when evaluating the condition of your home:

Exterior Items
 Chimneys
Check chimneys for loose or deteriorating bricks or mortar. Make sure that metal chimneys are rust-free. A white, salty buildup on the chimney (efflorescence), indicates moisture build-up, and should be checked out by a professional. It’s a good idea to have your chimneys professionally cleaned and inspected on an annual basis, in addition to you own visual assessments.

 Roofs
Have a leak inside the house? Chances are it’s your roof. Beyond that, look for chipped or missing shingles, or shingles that may be rubbed away by hanging tree limbs. Take this chance to trim trees up away from the shingles. Also make sure to check flashings, soffits, fascia, and any wood trim that comes in contact with the roof for rotting or peeling paint. Touch up and repair as needed.

 Gutters and Downspouts
Clean out your gutters and downspouts twice a year to ensure that no leakage or damage occurs. In addition, you may want to place screens over your gutters (available at home improvement stores) to prevent leaves and debris from entering the gutter system. Check for any places that they may be pulling away from the house or leaking. If paint is deteriorating, now is a good time to touch up.

 Exterior Walls and Foundation
Check for any cracks, deterioration, or peeling paint. If foundation cracking is excessive, call for a professional assessment. Otherwise, you can patch it yourself with mortar patch (which can be piped in with a caulk gun).

 Soil Grading
Does water seem to settle around the house—rather than drain away? Check to make sure that the soil slopes away from the house (1 inch per 6 feet is recommended). If it doesn’t, simply backfill with some topsoil until you reach the desired effect.

 Doors and Windows
Look for peeling or cracked caulk and weather stripping. These can easily be purchased at any home improvement store and repaired in a small amount of time. Clean out window wells and check that windows and doors open, shut, and lock properly.

 Porches, Decks, and Patios
Sealing your wooden porches and decks on an annual basis will help prevent against rotting and deterioration. Secure any wobbly rails or steps, and replace or treat any rotting or deteriorating wood. Check patios for cracks or settling, and repair as necessary.

 Driveways and Sidewalks
Check for cracking, and fill with concrete-patch as needed. Taking this time to seal your concrete areas will help prevent any further cracking and deterioration.

Attics and Crawlspaces
Inspect attics and crawlspaces for any signs of water leakage, and repair as necessary. In addition, look for mildew, rot, and fungus growth. Repair any loose or damaged insulation, and check that attic vents are functioning properly. Look for any signs of vermin, and treat as necessary by placing bait or traps—or hiring a professional exterminator.


Electrical
Do you have outlets that are loose? Now is the time to have them replaced—either by an electrician or yourself. Check your main breaker panel for any signs of deterioration. Turn breakers on and off to make sure all are functioning properly, and check all fuses. Do you smell something burning? Call a professional. Also, take this time to check the ground fault circuit interrupters (usually around sinks and other water elements) to ensure they function properly.

Heating and Air Conditioning
Does your heating and air conditioning run non-stop? Now is the time to have it checked out. Having your air ducts cleaned by a professional will help your unit run more efficiently. Check the coils on the air conditioning unit for any bent or misshapen areas. Clear debris out of the fan blades before using.

Plumbing
Check outdoor faucets and supply lines for any signs of leakage. If you have a septic tank, take notice of any foul odors or signs of seepage in the yard. If you haven’t had your tank emptied yet, do so now.

Take time to repair leaky faucets and caulk bathroom fixtures. Check toilets for any signs of leakage—either from the tank or around the base. Check sump pumps to ensure proper function, and test the pressure relief valve on your water heater to ensure that it hasn’t seized up.

Interior Items
 Walls
Look for any signs of mildew or water damage (yellow stains are usually a sign of water damage). Patch holes and cracks in the drywall, and touch up paint as necessary. Monitor any significant cracks, as these could be a sign of foundation problems.

 Ceilings
As with walls, take note of any mildew or water stains, and repair as needed. Look for drooping ceilings, and locate the cause to ensure proper repairs. Monitor and repair cracks.

 Doors and Windows
Open, close, and lock (where applicable) all doors and windows to ensure proper functioning. Replace weathered caulk around windows and check for any signs of moisture infiltration (particularly in storm windows). Broken or loose knobs, latches, or handles should be repaired now.

While no homeowner can possible catch every problem before it develops into an expensive repair, simply taking note of minor “fix-its”—and repairing them—can help avoid many costly repair bills in the future. Without a doubt, regular home maintenance is something no homeowner can afford to ignore.

Copyright © 2006, Ian White

Storage Solutions: Get Organized Room by Room

Storage Solutions: Get Organized Room by Room

Conquering clutter is easier said than done for those of us who cannot resist—stuff! If you frequent garage sales, antique stores, malls and flea markets—or—if your home has become smaller over the years due to a slow accumulation of things, than there are steps you can take to organize everything. The following article offers strategies to cope with clutter room by room while providing storage solutions and organizational management of your household items.

Generally the living room is where you entertain company so it makes sense to begin there. For living rooms that are truly lived in, shelving makes a big difference provided you keep your shelves organized. Bookcases and shelving units can easily become cluttered so consider well what you need them for. One option is to purchase colored boxes that match your décor and store magazines, photos, candles, cds and other odds and ends in them. This way, guest only see the neat arrangement of pretty boxes punctuated with books and interesting bookends.

Also, instead of pedestal side tables and an open style coffee table, purchase trunks to be used as tables. Many coffee tables are designed to enclose items like books and photo albums. This is a practical way to keep your stuff handy but out of sight at the same time. Try to limit furniture to essential pieces even if you switch pieces seasonally. An overcrowded room is an uninviting space.

Unfortunately, most bathrooms are small—too small for all the stuff that needs to be there like towels, toiletries, cleaning supplies, etc…If space permits, a water-resistant chest at the foot of the sub is an alternative spot for towels and will free up linen closet space for other items you need stored there. There are also inexpensive shelving units that sit above your toilet for additional and attractive storage. And, instead of shoving items all about your medicine cabinet, arrange them in small tins or containers for a more organized look.

The master bedroom should be a place of relaxation. It may be hard to relax when all your clothes are spilling out of your too-small closet. Instead of purchasing another dresser, buy or even make a simple free standing armoire. Angle it in front of a corner. Not only will you have a more space to hang clothes, you’ve created a storage spot behind it where you may store totes of out-of-season clothes. If the top of the unit is flat and sturdy enough, stick your television up there or decorative baskets filled with linens.

Try to make the most of all your space—even under the bed. There are shallow totes available made to fit under the bed. These are perfect for magazines, craft supplies, shoes, wrapping paper, etc…Again, keep furniture to a minimum. If your chair becomes a discarded clothing magnet, get rid of it since it’s not used for sitting anyway. A stack of decorative hatboxes makes a charming and useful storage element for socks, pantyhose, greeting cards, jewelry, etc…

Children’s bedrooms need particular attention on a regular basis. If possible, devote an entire wall to a shelving center. Plain wood works best and may be bolted to the wall in a series of box-like shelves that will hold plastic bins and boxes of toys. Keep soldiers in one, dolls in another. Begin teaching your children how to organize by storing each type of toy separately.

Basements can become extremely unruly with clutter. Best thing to do—take a weekend (or a week) and empty it out. Put up several industrial shelving units available at most home improvement stores. Arrange them in aisles so both sides of the unit are accessible. Then, holiday supplies on one, nostalgic high school and college items for another, household cleaners on another and so forth. If the look bothers you, section off a corner and put up decorative screens.

Finally, treat yourself to a trip to a storage or container store for as many organizing gadgets as you can afford—and then use them. Often the problem of clutter is that there is not an adequate space to keep them. An alternative might be to visit a flea market where you’ll find boxes, crates, shelves and many odds and ends you may be able to fix up and use in your home or garage.

Copyright © 2005, Ian White

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Surviving Winter in Style

Preparing your home to survive the seasons is easy. It is also less expensive to do it yourself. Follow a few simple seasonal, fall and winter, strategies to keep your home in tip top shape and save yourself the headache of costly and time consuming repairs. A man’s home is only his castle if it is not falling down around him.

Fall and Winter Maintenance Tips

Outside Your Home

Using a ladder may be safer, but it also more time consuming, and perhaps even annoying, to get up and down to shift the ladder to a new location. If you do choose to climb onto the roof, do so carefully and be sure to wear footwear with good tread.

Roof and Gutters

 Remove debris- Mother Nature has a way of depositing many things upon the roofs of homes. Remove the debris from the roof. Use a soft bristled broom to gently sweep all of the debris into a pile. Bag the debris and dispose of it properly.
 Clean out the gutters- leaves, roofing grit, and other debris have a way of collecting in the gutters. Carefully remove any large pieces by hand and dispose of properly. Use a small tool, such as a spade or trowel, to remove small, gritty pieces.
 Clean out the downspouts where the gutters meet the walls of your home. An old pair of tongs may be helpful with this task. This will help to prevent a backup of water on your roof.
 Repair minor damage to the fittings- Tighten any of the fittings that have become loose to ensure that the gutter stays attached to your home.
 Replace fittings- Any fittings, that have become damaged beyond repair, should be replaced with new ones.
 Repair minor damage- Silicon caulk and a small piece of aluminum sheet metal may be used to repair small holes that exist in the gutter. If water leaks through the gutters in places that it isn’t supposed to, seepage into the home may result.
 Flush the roof- Flush everything with water from a hose to make sure that you have gotten every bit of debris.
 Cover- If you cover the gutter with hardware cloth, you can prevent buildup of debris in your gutters in the future.

Decks: Pool and Other

 Sweep debris from the decking and place in the trash.
 Put away any pool toys, floats, skimmers, foot baths, thermometers, etc.
 Replace any loose deck nails or screws with new deck screws. First, remove the loose ones.

Windows and Doorways

 For windows sills and doorways where the existing caulk has begun to pull away from the surface, remove the old caulk as completely as possible.
 Be sure to clean the area where the caulking will be applied.
 Wait until the area to be re-caulked is completely dry and re-caulk.

Outside Faucets

 Shut off the inside water valve to each outside faucet to prevent freezing.
 Turn the outside faucet handle to release any remaining water from the pipes once you have turned off the valve.

Inside Your Home

Repairs and preventative maintenance inside the home is just as important as outside the home. Possibly, this is more important if you are thinking about your personal comfort. Plan to spend the lesser half of a weekend investigating needed repairs. Then, plan to spend the better part implementing those repairs. This is where a “stitch in time” actually equates to “a minute now or hours later.”

Insulation

 Purchase and install a hot water heater-insulating blanket to conserve heat. In the event of a power outage, this may decrease the possibility of water damage.
 Prevent the freezing of water pipes that exist in an unheated part of your home by insulating them with special pipe insulation. A more expensive and time consuming effort would be to completely relocate the pipes and reroute them to a heated region of your home. Heat tape may also be applied to the pipes in lieu of the other choices.
 Research the R-value of your existing insulation. Check to see if you have the correct value for each of the areas that are insulated- floors, ceilings, and walls. If you discover that the wrong insulation has been used, replace any areas of your home with the proper R-value.

Heating Systems

 Change the filters to your furnace and put in brand new ones each fall.
 Clean the registers in each room for the best possible efficiency.
 Move furniture, curtains, and loose carpeting or rugs away from the registers so that the air can circulate freely and to avoid a fire hazard.
 Check the gas furnace to make sure that the pilot light is blue. If it isn’t, call and have a repairman from the company out to look at it immediately.
 Hire a chimney cleaner to inspect your chimney and flue and to remove any creosote that has accumulated.

Lighting and Fans

 Check all of your lights, lamps, and fans for loose wiring. Replace any that need to be replaced.
 Clean all of your ceiling fans, lamps, and lighting fixtures.
 Turn the fan’s power supply off and oil the motor.
 Switch the direction of the fan to maximize the benefit for circulating the heat in your home.

Sealing Air Leaks

 Replace sheer curtains with heavier drapes to retain the heat in your home.
 Check for air leaks around electrical outlets, pipefittings that exit or enter the home, attic entrances, windows, and doorways.
 Caulk or add insulation plates (for electrical outlets) to any location that merits it.
 Apply temporary weather stripping to prevent air and heat leaks at the windows.

Safety Procedures

 Purchase smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors for every floor. Be aware that these should be replaced every three to five years depending on the model.
 Replace the batteries in your alarms at least once a year.
 Check the alarms to make sure that they are still in good working order.
 Trim shrubbery away from windows, doorways, and water pipes.
 Have a professional trim any shrubbery that is growing too closely to electrical wiring.
 Replace outdoor light bulbs to motion detectors and doorway lights.
 Invest in a few solar outdoor lighting sets for an inexpensive way to add security to your home.

People spend many hours and fistfuls of dollars to maintain their cars every year. However, they often overlook the family home and the necessary maintenance chores that should be done. Considering the large sum of money that is invested in a home, a few dollars more to keep it in tip top shape is well worth it. Remember, a car may take you where you want to go, but a home is the place you want to be. Baby your home with tender, loving care, and it will return the favor.
Copyright © 2005, Ian White

Author Ian White is founder of http://www.petsitters.com.au This site specializes in helping pet sitters and pet owners connect to each other. Find and screen a sitter for your pet or advertise your pet care business. Register for petsitting, find assignments or post free sitter needed ad.

Decorative Floors: Transform Your Space from the Bottom Up

By Ian White

Decorative floor accents will provide any home with that extra something special that is so reflective of individual style. Plain floors have many makeover options today—and many are not only beautiful, but cost-effective as well. The following article offers ideas and methods to create flooring that will enhance your entire décor and give your home an original stamp of beauty.

Adding floor accents will not only transform a plain floor, but they may even screen or camouflage damaged areas of your floor. While carpeting and decorative rugs are always an option, the subsequent ideas here are specific to your actual floor. No matter what kind of floor you have from wood to cement, there are many design possibilities to give your floor an overhaul in appearance. From designs that incorporate the entire floor to small accents that border your floor, there are many possibilities to consider.

If you were not able to install the expensive parquet floor you had your heart set on at the time you opted for a plain wood floor—you have the creative option of stenciling a faux parquet floor that is not only inexpensive, but utterly realistic and charming. Using various shades of stain a simple design of diamonds and squares would work best on a newly sanded raw wood floor, but it may be beautifully employed on a stained wood floor. Rather than stenciling with paint, you stencil with waterbased stains and may finish however you choose. This design makes a great border for any room, but especially in a formal living or dining room.

This same type of stenciling also works well to create an interesting center point for your flooring or to enhance a special table. Variations on the design could include checkerboard, leaf or floral patterns. Paint may be employed to great effect but it will not provide the look of a parquet floor. Many crafters prefer stamps and these could be used in place of stencils for a similar look.

If you like the look of paint, there are many ways to use it on your floor from single colors that cover the entire floor to patterns that border the floor to designs that are randomly interspersed. Consider a garland motif that rings your living room floor like a wreath or a fun colorful floor of stripes for a children’s playroom. You may even opt for a painted floor to resemble a tiled floor—black and white squares throughout the kitchen perhaps. Of course, paint is also great for a staircase and designs that are very formal to country rustic abound.

Stencils also work great for outdoor flooring like patios and decks. A wood burning tool and some outdoor paint will work magic to spice up your wood flooring. Consider wood burned leaves strewn about your deck and painted with an iridescent green paint. Also, a lilac border is simple to create and will give your flooring a bit of lovely lavender color to perhaps match your deck furniture cushions.

If you are afraid to transform your floor permanently, consider buying flooring remnants or rolls of vinyl to decorate and lay on top of a section of your existing flooring where it can be appreciated as a focal point. Can’t afford an Oriental rug? Try painting or employing decoupage to a piece of vinyl for the look without the high price. Of course, the value is simply a bonus; these methods are lovely in and of themselves and consulting with a professional artist in your area may even prompt you to design an elaborate floor mural.

To find patterns that you like, scour art books as well as carpet and flooring centers. Often you may find something there you can easily reproduce on your own.

Copyright © 2006, Ian White

Author Ian White specializes in helping people who are interested in finding a live-in pet sitter (house sitter) in their town. House sitters provide free pet minding, gardening and home security in exchange for accomodation. To find out about these services, visit the link below. This is a free service for homeowners.

Free registration for confidential matching with house sitters in your area.