As many of you know, I follow, read and comment on over 30 discussion forums on a daily basis. It seems that one of the more frequent points of discussion and questions today centers around backsplashes and the many choices available today. Apart from all the elements of kitchen design such as faucets, flooring, cabinetry and appliances, another choice to make to improve your kitchen space is the backsplash. Backsplashes are positioned behind the stove and/or sink to make these wall surfaces more durable and easier to keep clean, but today backsplashes do more than protect, they can also serve as a design element bringing character, color, and style to your kitchen. Here are some of the choices to consider today:
1. Paint
Probably the oldest and least expensive way to decorate your backsplash is to simply paint the area. If paint is your choice you should make sure you use a durable paint that will not fade, peel or crack under the stress of heat, grease and constant cleaning. High performance paint will resist stains and require only a wipe with water and mild soap although you can scrub away if you like. High quality paints are often antimicrobial fighting mildew and mold, perfect for all kitchen spaces. Paint can truly transform your walls and protect them as well. All you have to do is choose the color that works best for you and your décor. Additionally you might choose to decorate the painted surfaces with stenciling, striping or other embellishments to make the painted backsplash uniquely yours. If you are concerned with the ultimate durability in the prime areas behind the stove and sink you can cover the painted surfaces with a thin plate of clear plastic such as lexan or glass as I will discuss further down.
2.Ceramic Tile
Glazed ceramic tiles as a backsplash are stronger and obviously easily kept clean. Possibilities are limited only by the vast number of choices available on the market today, choices of colors, textures, and styles. Tiles must be grouted and grout is comes in several color options as well as considering the width of the grout line. Choosing a grout which matches your tile color creates a classic look, where choosing a grout which stands out from your tile color will have a much different effect generally creating a more bold appearance. Depending on your style, grout may be an important consideration. You may choose just to tile behind the stove and sink and maybe just above the countertop edge to make it easier to clean then paint above this saves you time and money and can create yet another look. You can also choose from a huge selection of hand painted tiles and tiles with distinct textures and shapes. You are not locked into the idea of just color or flirting with the danger of making your kitchen look like it is a part of the bathroom. Tiles may be rough or smooth, some can have a more matte finish where others will be sheen and tiles may also not have the same color qualities.
3.Glass Tile
Currently the most popular choice for backsplash materials is glass tiles. Glass tiles can resemble ceramic tiles but are made from glass, many times recycled, and have a transparent or opaque appearance as opposed to the solid color of ceramic. These tiles are available in clear, frosted, linear or iridescent finishes and can even be slip proof for floors. Glass is actually incredibly durable and non-porous making glass a perfect choice for the kitchen and because as I mentioned previously can be made from recycled glass adding an additional “green” element. The downside of glass is that these tiles can be very tricky to cut and very expensive. Installing glass kitchen backsplash tiles is very similar to installing ceramic only your choice of grout color is very important. Since most glass tiles are translucent, imperfections in your grouting job will show through the tile. Since these tiles are translucent, their color will also be affected by your grout color choice therefore it is recommended to use a white grout so that the true color of the tile will show through. Glass 1×1 mosaic tiles are quite expensive running at approximately $30 per sq. ft. where larger glass tile sheets are less. One way to include glass into your backsplash design without blowing your budget is to use smaller glass mosaic boarder sheets. These sheets combine well with ceramic or stone tiles or work well by themselves when applied to a painted backsplash surface.
4.Solid glass or lexan/clear plastic
Another option for kitchen backsplashes is solid glass or lexan panes. Solid pieces of clear or colored glass or plastic can be use to create a luminous like effect. Solid glass can be quite expensive and will show dirt and grime easier however this surface is very easy to keep clean as it is seamless. The lexan may be a less expensive option but is still not cheap.
5.Wall paper
Wall paper has become sort of passé in today’s home what with all of the choices of faux painting and textured surfaces. Call me old fashioned, because after all I am old, but I still like wallpaper and the many designs and colorful choices that it offers. For many years durable vinyl wallpaper was consider the best choice for the backsplash areas and even still can be a great choice in conjunction with the glass/lexan option. Putting a wallpaper under the glass panels can add an additional layer of texture and color to your kitchen.
Metallic Backsplashes
6.Stainless Steel, virtually any sheet metal can be formed into a beautiful kitchen backsplash, but some are much more popular than others. The trendiest product in the backsplash market today is Stainless steel. A 100% recyclable and flexible product which can easily fit into irregular corners and angles Stainless steel is incredibly durable and resists heat and corrosion and since it can be installed seamlessly, this backsplash is incredibly easy to clean and is therefore a hygienic material for the kitchen. Although stainless steel is an attractive material on its own, today this product has been transformed into many different textures, patterns, and finishes resulting in many available choices. Stainless steel backsplashes of course look best when combined with stainless steel appliances, steel counters and backsplashes with hardwood cabinetry. A warning though, just like stainless steel appliances or countertops, the backsplash made of stainless steel can be VERY expensive.
7. Copper, as a backsplash is a way to add warmth and beauty to your kitchen. Like stainless steel, copper is a very durable and flexible product that can be installed seamlessly or in tiles. Copper backsplashes are also available in several styles, textures, patterns and finishes. They can be finger print and tarnish free! Like stainless steel, prepare yourself for financial shock when you get the estimate.
8. Countertop surface can be the simplest choice. You may opt to simply continue the countertop surface, i.e. formica, granite etc onto the backsplash. Some may think of this as lacking in creativity and lack the color and texture contrast but may be easier to accomplish.

By incorporating backsplashes into your kitchen, you can add your own unique style imprint on your work space and improve the design style. You will not regret putting the extra time or money into the backsplash as the results will leave your kitchen looking unique and beautiful.

Richard Warren
http://www.articlesbase.com/kitchens-articles/how-to-choose-a-kitchen-backsplash-742216.html

Apple Cider Vinegar contains tannins, which condition the wood.

Once in a while I also add a teaspoon or two of Lemon Oil to the mixture…but you could use just about any Essential Oil, or even baby oil. If you do add oil, stir the mixture often to keep the oil mixed.

I tried Murphy’s Oil soap, but it left a dull residue, so I switched to this method after hearing about on HGTV.

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When considering the different aspects of kitchen remodeling design, you should be open to all the different ideas for planning and remodeling this area. Therefore, it is wise to make a list of the areas and items that you do not like about the existing kitchen while planning a kitchen remodel design.

Here are examples of kitchen remodeling design issues to address:

* Determine a kitchen remodel design budget, and then stick to it.

* What is the size of your family or number of people you plan to accommodate while entertaining?

* What is the number of cooks who will be using the same space?

* Consider the amount of preparation and counter space you need.

* Determine whether you have enough storage space.

* What about the replacement of some or all of your appliances?

* Consider the type of lighting you plan to use for most areas of your kitchen, whether it is natural or artificial.

* Consider the traffic flow and the work triangle, which is the most efficient distance between the oven, sink and refrigerator.

* You might consider adding or designing a kitchen island for storage, cleaning area and cook top or food preparation area.

* A kitchen remodeling design takes time and planning, so consider the type of pantry and cabinets you want and the types of materials used for the floors, countertops and backsplash.

Do you know that there are homeowners who do not cook but have a beautiful kitchen show place? Some families do a great deal of entertaining in this area that is the center of their homes. It may also function as their office, an after school work shop for homework as well as a place to cook and entertain family and friends.

Kitchen remodel designs today are more complex and expensive. The appearance of your kitchen can add to the value of your home or take away from it. However, this does not mean you have to spend $80,000 to create a beautiful and functional kitchen. When you live in an area that does not feature high-tech kitchens with large food preparation areas as well as expensive materials and finishes, it may not be wise to invest so much money on a kitchen remodeling design, since if you do sell your home, you may not get back your investment.

Most homes today feature an open plan design kitchen that provides good natural lighting. This way you, your family and friends can eat, drink, talk, watch television while preparing meals and enjoying the same open space. The most successful kitchen remodeling designs take into account various designing tips.

You do not have to spend an outrageous amount of money for a basic kitchen remodel design. For instance, when your cabinets are in good condition, you may consider staining or repainting them for a fresh appearance. It the cabinet boxes are in good shape, you might want to replace only the doors, the drawer fronts and hardware.

However, if the cabinets need replacing, there are many attractive, reasonably priced materials that can offer the special appearance you wish to create. Keep in mind that it can become very expensive when you remodel large rooms with custom cabinets made of exotic woods.

Your appliances should be energy efficient and of good quality. However, if you do not want to spend a lot of money, you can choose appliances that are all white, black or beige since they are both less expensive and just as attractive as stainless steel. Remember, a purchase of professional or commercial appliances of stainless steel will increase your budget total once you have determined the amount you want to spend per appliance and whether your existing appliances are reusable.

Always being mindful of your budget, you should know that hardwood flooring is more expensive than some tile or vinyl flooring. As long as you do not use such materials as stone, marble, granite, concrete and stainless steel, keep in mind that back splashes and countertops of more common materials will be cheaper. Rather than using imported or hand painted tiles which are expensive, choose the other types of budget friendly synthetic tiles that are both durable and beautiful.

Kitchen islands are wonderful sources for extra storage and preparation areas, with or without a sink, or you may consider installing a cook top. Consider what the available space will be, since a kitchen island does need a certain amount of space to be work efficient. For instance, when working with a small 3′ x 6′ island, you will require at least 130 square feet of floor space for the traffic flow around the island to function well, depending upon the size of the room.

No matter how simple or complex your kitchen remodeling design is, the kitchen can be useful for working on the computer, doing homework or gathering around your family and friends for eating and drinking.

Before beginning to do any work, it is a good idea to learn as much as you can about kitchen remodel design. Since the kitchen is the heart of any home and a special area, you want yours to perform its best for you now and in the future.

Copyright 2008 InfoSearch Publishing

David Lee Buster
http://www.articlesbase.com/interior-design-articles/kitchen-remodeling-design-ideas-and-considerations-316408.html

Few household cleaning appliances receive as much use as the vacuum cleaner. Keeping dirt from the carpets, cobwebs from the corners, and dust from the baseboards, the household vacuum cleaner certainly pulls its weight when it comes to keeping things tidy. But deciding what vacuum cleaner will work best for your needs can be a somewhat confusing task.

First and foremost, the modern vacuum cleaner comes in two decidedly different varieties – with bags or without. A vacuum cleaner that requires a bag also requires the changing of the bag. While this can be a timely process, most newer vacuum cleaners make it surprisingly easy to change the bags. The upside of using a vacuum cleaner that comes with a bag is the fact that the dirt is already contained when you empty it. Using a vacuum cleaner that is bagless – while eliminating the need for the bag change – requires the emptying of the vacuum itself, which can be a dirty job. Weigh bag versus no bag depending on time you wish to dedicate to vacuum maintenance, the cost of the bags associated with the particular vacuum cleaner in which you are interested, and your ability to be in direct contact with dirt and dust.

Most of the more contemporary models of vacuum cleaner come with a HEPA filter that actually catches dust and dirt contained in the air and prevents it from being re-released. This can be an absolutely priceless feature for those who suffer from asthma, respiratory infections, and ongoing allergies.

Also, when in search of the perfect vacuum cleaner, you must thoroughly examine the needs you will require it to meet, such as your need to use the vacuum cleaner for hardwood floors as well as carpeting, the shampooing of carpets, the dusting of baseboards and crown molding, etc. This will determine what features and accessories you will require with a new vacuum cleaner.

Finally, take affordability into consideration before purchasing your vacuum cleaner. While it’s true that more functionality will undoubtedly mean a higher price tag, it may be worth it if you plan to use the vacuum cleaner on an everyday basis and for a number of projects. Some of the pricier models also come with warranties, however, so be sure to include this in your decision making.

Michelle Bery
http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/purchasing-an-appropriate-vacuum-cleaner-96262.html

Until recent years, a vacuum cleaner was simply a useful tool in the domestic world. It was closed up in a closet until time to use, and not given very much attention at all. The times have changed since this perception. Now these devices are guaranteeing that they will lighten our cleaning problems, provide us with brilliant color designs, and are made to look sleek and fashionable.

This has evolved from a simpler time when a salesman would come to your door and sell you one, or your local corner hardware store had just the one you needed because there was only one. The vacuum cleaner was there and never changed. That is until recently.

Today’s buyers can be awed at the innovation and advancement of current vacuum cleaners. This often leaves people asking questions. What kind do I buy? How much should I spend? What color do I want? What brand is best for me?

These questions can be answered by looking around your home. First, you need to know what kind of flooring you have in your home, as there are different vacuum cleaners for different types of floors. There are different models for hardwood floors, and also the simple carpet ones. Will you be cleaning your curtains with it? Does it have the right attachments to do that for you?

You also have the choice of a vacuum cleaner that either is upright or canister form. You should pick the canister form if you have a lot of stairs that you will be cleaning, as it is much easier to transport this style. If you do have a lot of carpet in your home, the upright will provide you with greater suction power to lift dirt out of it.

Now there has emerged a new fad among vacuum cleaners and that is the world of the no bags. Before recently, all vacuum cleaners dealt with bags that would catch the dirt, and you would need to empty it every once in a while. This could become very messy, as well as be a hassle. Bagless vacuum cleaners are marketed on the fact that they have the suction power that will last no matter how full the dust compartment may get. Also, when it is time to clean the compartment out, all that is needed to be done is to take out the filter, empty it into the trash can, and put back in the vacuum.

As much as all the different styles you can choose from today can be very daunting when you go to buy a vacuum cleaner, the options now are definitely an improvement from vacuum cleaners of years gone by.

Susan Fielding
http://www.articlesbase.com/advertising-articles/vacuum-cleaners-what-happened-to-the-ease-of-selecting-the-right-vacuum-73562.html

When it comes to water damage homes may be more vulnerable you think simply because the area is typically so dry. Unlike other parts of the nation where home owners and city planners expect periodic flooding, water damage due to flooding remains a relatively rare for the area. That sense of complacency is what gets more home owners in trouble than anything else. Consider these facts:

1.      Water damage is one of the most common insurance claims submitted by homeowners.

2.      The average homeowner is more likely to experience a water damage related loss than nearly any other type of major claim including fire.

3.      Residents of areas like Houston or other parts of Texas not prone to routine flooding often fail to carry flood insurance since they think it will never be needed, leaving them with large out of pocket expenses when water damage does occur.

Find out the top five ways water damage takes place in most homes and how to respond when the worst happens:

1.      Broken pipe. From a burst water main to the simple aging of old pipes, many area homes experience water damage due to broken or leaking pipes.

2.      Sewer back-up. This unsanitary water related damage is often a homeowner’s worst nightmare and requires rapid response to eliminate hazardous bacterial contamination.

3.      Flash flooding. Although relatively rare, the dry area surrounding can lead to flash flooding that enters homes and causes massive problems in a matter of hours.

4.      Accidents. Overflowing bathtubs or broken toilets can ruin hardwood floors and carpeting but so can accidental fires where water is used to extinguish the flames.

5.      Long term humidity problems. Basements, indoor pools, aging infrastructure and other issues can lead to long term humidity problems that cause water damage over time. Homeowners may grow so familiar with the problem they don’t realize damage is being done to the home. Everything from mold and mildew to structural support can be impacted by long term humidity.

Whatever the reason behind the water damage, it is critical to have your home professionally cleaned and renovated. Mold and mildew can begin growing in as little as two days after water permeates the home and spores can be spread through the ventilation system of your home. Hard wood flooring, drywall, carpeting and furniture are also likely to be impacted either through direct water exposure or bacteria, mold and mildew spores. Search for a full service company like Kiwi Services that is able to provide 24/7 response and handle all water extraction and home cleaning needs.

Call for water damage Houston and flood damage Houston services.

Eliza
http://www.articlesbase.com/interior-design-articles/top-five-ways-water-damage-can-harm-your-home-546927.html

The ideal thing to do is make a list of your price range and budget and what you need your vacuum to do. Then, you can start shopping around and narrow your list down
until you find the vacuum that is perfect for your needs.

There are several vacuum machines on the market today, and you’ll have no problems finding one that will complete your tasks with ease and durability.

Vacuums are available in several different colors, sizes, and prices.  Basically, there are two types of vacuum cleaners – wet and dry vacs, and there are even companies out there that have found ways to combine both features.  You can choose from cordless, handheld, and even bagless models.  If you are feeling really lazy, you can even purchase a robotic  miele vacuum cleaner that will vacuum your entire house for you while you watch.

Normally, vacuum cleaners are made of either durable plastic or aluminum.  They range in colors, from red to silver and white to blue.  For the models, you can choose from upright, canister, stick, hand held, and shop vac models.

There are some vacuum cleaners that are specifically designed to help get debris and dirt out from under your car seat and others that are made to help you clean your hardwood floors.  Other features can include extra detachable extension tools, retractable power cords, a HEPA filter, and an easy to reach power switch.  There are even models out there that will pick up nails and even glasses of water.

Several companies out there produce vacuum cleaners, including Oreck, Simplicity, Dyson, Hoover, Bosch, Sanyo, Bissell, Eureka, and Kirby.  If you are looking for a   miele vacuum cleaner, you have a large selection of discounted and refurbished vacuums out there waiting for you.

One of the greatest things about vacuum cleaners is the fact that the sky is limit.  There are literally hundreds to choose from, giving you everything you need to complete your task.  The most popular types of vacuums on the market today are bagless, as there are no bags to change, all you need to do is empty the cylinder after you vacuum.

Whenever you are shopping for a vacuum, you should always compare prices.  This way, you’ll get the best deal for your money.  They range in prices from 30 dollars to 500, making it more than worth your time and money to shop around.  Before you know it, you’ll have a vacuum cleaner that will making cleaning your home or business both fun and exciting.

Henry Funk

The popularity of laminate flooring has gone from strength to strength since it was first introduced to the UK over 15 years ago. Laminate floors offer a great alternative if you don’t want to make the investment into hardwood flooring, but want to create a difference or add value to your home. Laminate flooring can help transform a room or an entrance way into a spacious and more eye-catching contemporary living area and offers a less expensive and equally attractive option. Laminate flooring is simple to fit and exceptionally practical it can brighten almost any room in the home.

Laminate flooring can be used in rooms of any size from small spaces at home to large office units at work. In homes it is most commonly used in downstairs rooms and hallways however with the introduction of moisture resistant laminate floors its uses have now spread to kitchens and bathrooms as well.

How you decorate rooms often depends on what it’s used for. Is it a place where you scrum down with the kids, relax with a glass of wine at the end of the day or is it for entertaining your guests? Well the right flooring can help you make it all three. To do this you have to mix practicality and style; fortunately with today’s laminate flooring you don’t have to compromise on either. Top quality laminate flooring is less than half the price of a high quality woven carpet and has the added attraction of requiring the minimum amount of cleaning and after care which naturally appeals to a wide variety of people – from those with young families to busy professionals. Laminate flooring is scratch, stain, fade and even burn resistant. Spills wipe away easily and they look fantastic!

The choice of laminate flooring on the market is vast with products ranging from light wood floors like pine to dark wood floors such as walnut. An antique finish in a smaller room can create a rustic country cottage look with bags of atmosphere. In a larger room this finish can create anything from ultra modern chic to the feel of a medieval banquet hall.

Some of the most popular choices include beech laminate flooring and oak laminate flooring. You can even purchase laminate flooring that replicates the look and feel of traditional stone tiles making it an ever more popular choice in interior design. All these types of floors can be purchased from flooring suppliers with many offering discount flooring throughout the year.

Rami Nseir
http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/why-buy-laminate-flooring–103762.html

When you have indoor allergies to dust, mold and pet dander, you come into contact with allergy irritants all year round.  This contact can be the highest in your bedroom, where you come to rest and rejuvenate, but may end up worsening allergy symptoms. The high levels of allergens found in your bedroom can affect your health, and the path to a healthier night’s sleep is through reducing your exposure to allergens and therefore preventing allergy symptoms.  While steps should be taken throughout the home to reduce allergens, start in the bedroom as you spend the most time here.   When you take these allergy relief steps, you’ll be on your way to a healthier home and a healthier night’s sleep.

Step 1:  Cover Your Pillow and Mattress in Dust Mite-Proof Allergy Encasings

Over 1 million dust mites can live in a single bed.  These dust mites love the dark, warm and humid environment found in any bedding, such as your pillows, mattress, box spring, comforter, blankets or linens.  You are allergic to dust mite allergens, which are the dust mites’ dead bodies and fecal particles.  You can protect yourself from the large source of allergens within the bed by using allergy-proof covers (or ‘allergy encasings’), which create a barrier between you and the allergens inside.  Certain allergy encasings may also protect against pet dander that has built up in the bed and are helpful if you have pet allergies.  The allergy encasings zip fully around your pillow or mattress, and the most recommended encasings, such as Allergy Control® encasings, are made from tightly woven fibers that are breathable, totally comfortable and easy to care for.  Scientific studies prove the effectiveness of including these allergy encasings on your bed, and by taking this simple step, you can make a lasting difference toward a healthier night’s sleep.

Step 2:  Wash Your Bedding Frequently

After including Allergy Control® encasings on the bed, it’s important to wash any other bedding, such as linens or blankets, frequently in hot water.  Physicians recommended washing every 1 to 2 weeks, as hot water washing removes the dust mite allergens from bedding that contribute to your allergy symptoms.  If you prefer not to wash in hot water, special allergen-removing laundry products such as Allersearch Allergen Wash or de-mite Laundry Additive can remove dust mite allergens in any temperature.

Step 3:  Clean Regularly to Reduce Allergen Levels

Regular cleaning of your bedroom and home will keep allergen levels lower.  Focus on the bedroom, following these 6 Steps for Allergy Relief and then use similar methods throughout the house.  Prioritize your efforts to those cleaning steps that are the most practical and beneficial for removing allergens.  An allergy sufferer should avoid being home when cleaning is done, or wear a face mask when others clean or when doing the cleaning.  A face mask similar to Allergy Zone face mask includes a center valve that filters allergen particles while allowing breath to flow comfortably for easy use while cleaning.

Step 4:  Remove or Treat Carpeting, the Second Largest Source of Dust Mite Allergens

Dust mites like to burrow into the fibers of the carpet, and as a result, the carpet is the second largest source of dust mite allergens after the bed.  Removing the carpet in favor of hardwood or tile floors is the best option.  If removing the carpet is not possible, clean the carpet with an allergy-related carpet treatment that is designed to kill dust mites or denature (meaning to ‘deactivate’) allergens.  Also remove heavy curtains in favor of light, washable versions or blinds, and select leather or wipe-able furniture over stuffed upholstered furniture.

Step 5: Filter Air with HEPA Air Cleaners, Air Filters and HEPA Vacuums to Remove Airborne Allergens

Allergens can circulate in the air in your home and using air filters and HEPA filtration products such as HEPA Air Cleaners and HEPA Vacuum Cleaners will trap these allergens to decrease the irritants that you may inhale.  Allergy-free® air filters in your central air/heat system will trap allergens from further circulating through the vents.  HEPA air cleaners and HEPA air purifiers will trap 99.97% of allergens down to 0.3 microns that flow through the HEPA filter.  HEPA air cleaners will trap dust, mold spores, pollens and more and are especially helpful for pet allergies as pet dander remains airborne for longer periods of time for improved filtration.

Step 6:  Dehumidify Air to Reduce Dust Mite and Mold Levels

Dust mites and molds thrive in humid environments.  Keeping humidity levels below 50% will decrease the growth of each, which will reduce the allergens in your home. Use air conditioners and dehumidifiers to keep levels ideally between 35 – 40%.    Monitor humidity levels with a gauge to make sure that you’re in the right zone, even in the winter when using a humidifier.

Colleen Finnegan
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/the-secret-to-living-with-allergies-part-4-for-a-healthier-nights-sleep-start-with-dust-control-in-the-bedroom-682960.html