Author Archives: admin

Bathroom Remodel Ideas

For those who have never done a bathroom remodel, bathroom remodel ideas are the most important thing you can have. The basic idea for your remodel is what will guide you on color choices, vanity choices, and tile choices. When you are considering a bathroom remodel, consider all of the ideas you have had for the project, make a list of them, and take the time and effort to think about each idea for a few days. Often, your initial bathroom remodel ideas will change as a part of the process. What seems like a good idea is often reconsidered after several days. However, if you keep returning to the same idea, then chances are it is something that you would be happy with later down the road.

If you are in need of bathroom remodel ideas and you are not sure of what exactly you want, there are many galleries that you can look at for inspiration. Many people will showcase bathroom remodels, as a well designed bathroom is a work of art. As bathrooms are so expensive to remodel, many remodeling companies will showcase previous projects to entice customers to purchase their services. You can use these project showcases as references and inspiration for your own designs.

When coming up with bathroom remodel ideas, there are several components that you need to consider. First, you need a scheme. This can be the theme of your bathroom, including style of vanity, bathtub and toilet, as well as the colors that you use. The colors and theme of the bathroom are vital to ensuring that you get the most enjoyment of your bathroom. This is the heart and soul of the bathroom, with the other elements, such as materials, tile choices and sizing, fitting to meet your idea of good style.

Do not be surprised if your initial bathroom remodel ideas are reconsidered due to price. Often, the more interesting an idea, the more expensive it is to execute that idea. As soon as you go off the beaten path of plain vanities and tile choices, you enter the realm of the exotics. Exotics, be it hardwood vanities or Italian ceramic tile, can greatly increase the cost of your remodeling project. Try to price out your ideas as you refine them so you do not get any nasty surprises later. Then, add another twenty percent to the cost for elements you may not have accounted for, such as knobs and hinges.

If you take your time, you will be able to refine your bathroom remodel ideas into a project that you will be happy with for years to come.

Small Bathroom Remodel

Small Bathroom Remodel

Although undertaking a small bathroom remodel may sound simpler than a large remodel, there are many items that you will want to take under consideration. Number one, a small bathroom remodel will need much more planning than a similar bathroom remodel in a bigger room. In a small bathroom, everything you do is important because space is at a premium. In the small area of a little bathroom, using items you might use in a larger bathroom can make the room feel very small and uncomfortable.  One example would be using large vanities.  The flip side to this delima is that if you use vanities that are too small, you can easily render a small bathroom unsitable for use as your primary bathroom.  This calls into play a delicate balancing act between space available to use and what you choose to put in that space.

Another thing to consider in detail when undertaking a small bathroom remodel is your color choice.  This is vital to the overall look and feel of the bathroom. Unlike larger bathrooms, color choice is of extreme importance, allowing you to create the illusion that your bathroom is more roomy than it really is. Cool, pale colors with a dark accent color will give the room a longer and wider feel than it really is. If you use the dark color on your shorter walls, or as trim, you can create this illusion. Combine this this with a vanity of the proper size to create a larger, more comfortable feel. 

When choosing the vanity, shape as well as size is important to consider.  If you are looking to stretch the room out, making it seem taller, choose a taller, thinner vanity.  By the same token, if you are looking to lenghten the feel of the room, a longer, shorter vanity can help accomplish that.

Once you have settled on the colors and vanities for your small bathroom remodel, you must decide whether or not you will hire a professional to help complete your small bathroom remodel. There are many reasons you may want to hire a professional, but also reasons you may want to go it alone. First and foremost, hiring a professional can be very expensive. Bathroom remodels are one of the more expensive remodel options.  You can figure to easily spend between $2,000 – $4,000 just for supplies and materials. The cost of labor can easily double, or even triple, the cost of the supplies for your small bathroom remodel. This is the reason many people decide to do it themselves, as it really is reasonable and possible to do a  small bathroom remodel on your own.

If you are patient and have some experience with other interior projects, going it alone could be a good choice.  If you have friends or family that are handy, that is another positive for attempting to do it yourself. If you are going to do it yourself, there is one solid piece of advice to always remember.  Each time you stop working on your bathroom, be sure you leave it functional until you are able to work on it once more.

The actual time it takes to complete a  small bathroom remodel can differ depending on the type of flooring and how many items like the bathtub and toilet must actually be moved. If you are just replacing the flooring, adding tile, etc. and exchanging the vanity or adding paint, a small bathroom remodel can be done in pretty short order. If you are taking it down to the studs and re-doing the entire layout, you will likely have your weekends planned for the next month.  If you need the job done fast and it is going to be a major overhaul, you really might consider hiring professionals.  They will cost you more money, but they will have the manpower and experience to get a small bathroom remodel done very quickly.  Wichever direction you decide to go, however, don’t overlook the importance of properly planning your small bathroom remodel.

Bathroom Remodels

Bathroom remodels are often-times very stressful for people who don’t have much experience with interior projects. However, if you can excercise a little patience, and are able to follow instructions, it is possible to do your own bathroom remodels and save a small fortune on the cost of a specialist.

There are a number of items that you will need to be mindful of when undertaking any and all bathroom remodels. First of all, design elements such as color and arrangement are of key importance. Unlike other rooms in your house, except for maybe the kitchen, the bathroom needs to be the most functional. Functionality is usually more important than visual appearance when dealing with bathroom remodels. However, there are many ways for the astute to make your bathroom remodels both functional and good looking.  This is the goal to strive for when undertaking this particular interior project.

The first step in reaching that goal starts with the selection of your color scheme and vanities that you want to use in your bathroom. A color scheme can help to make the bathroom look larger than it really is if you choose wisely. Pale colors on the longest walls with darker colors to accent them on the shorter walls can add width to your bathroom. Adding trim lines along the shorter walls can help give the room more sense of depth. When coosing your vanities, you want to make sure you select the proper sizes.  If your choice is too small, you will lack the storage space you need, leading to a cluttered bathroom down the line.  On the other hand, a vanity that is too large will work against any attempt to make the room look larger as it will dominate the decor.  Reaching a happy medium between these two basics will help you make the most of your bathroom size.

The location of your bathtub and toilet are also imortant in bathroom remodels. You need to achieve a state where your toilet has plenty of room around it without taking up too much space. You also will want plenty of room around your bathtub to keep it functional and create a more eye pleasing design. As baths are meant to be relaxing, having enought space around the bathtub will aid in both the functionalilty and the appearance. If your bathtub area is too crowded, you will likely be unhappy with your bathroom remodels once they are completed and you have had time to live in them.

After you have decided how you want to approach your bathroom remodels and what materials you will need, you have to buy all of the items to make your remodel a reality. Make sure you purchase everything you need ahead of time. The less often that you have to go to the hardware store, the less stressful your remodel will be. If you don’t have much experience with interior projects, there is no penalty for asking family and friends for help. Some parts of the remodel, such as installing your bathtub, are best done with help.

Candle Wall Sconces

Candle Wall Sconces – Create a unique lighting evnironment using candle wall sconces

Ever since electricity was “invented”, candle wall sconces began losing their role as the main source of light in people’s homes.

Before electricity, candle wall sconces were used for ages. Since they used fire to create their light, they were installed on walls where they could easily be lit. Nowadays, however,  light bulbs are installed on ceilings, where they can distribute their light to the whole room more efficiently.  In addition, we don’t have to light them to them to turn them on.  We use switches conveniently placed on walls near the room entrance.

Nevertheless, candle wall sconces never disappeared. Today, they are still used in some houses, but not as the main form of light.  Rather, they are used today as a decoration that’s also a symbol of tradition and class.  The candle wall sconces are also the perfect way to create a romantic mood in or out of the bedroom.

Because they’re used mainly as decorations, the type, size and form of candle wall sconces have to match the style of the room. They look their best with a wooden base and black iron or steel extensions, specially if the room they are in has a lot of wood as well. Of course, that’s not the only style and it all depends on your taste. For example, more modern styles are often used in new age rooms.

As with everything that involves fire, safety should be carefully considered when dealing with candle wall sconces. Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby (and out of sight, of course). Also, it is better if you get candle wall sconces that include a glass container to place the candle inside. That will keep sparks from flying, and it will also keep air currents from blowing off the fire in the candle. And of course, don’t put any flammable objects right under the candle wall sconces.  Finally, make sure that any fire alarms and water sprinklers can’t be triggered by the candle wall sconces. It really ruins the romantic mood when you want to establish a mood for your romantic partner only to be soaked by the water sprinklers.

By knowing and adhereing to these basic safety rules, you can assure that your candle wall sconces will make your room beautiful without causing any damage.  They are also very versatile, so following the rules shouldn’t be a problem.  Candle wall sconces aren’t limited to location due to wiring concerns, so they can be installed just about anywhere.  Good luck!

Build a Workbench

A lot of people like to build things or fix them. While this was for ages an activity that only men practiced, today, both men and women dedicate themselves to the construction and fixing of both practical and decorative objects, using their creativeness, love for hand work, different materials, and the many tools that have been developed over time.

The workbench is maybe the most basic of all tools. It provides a surface to work with, as well as integrated features that vary according to the model. For example, some have vices to fasten objects so they are fixed. Others have special tools, like saws. They may also have storage drawers or boxes, where you can place your most commonly used tools.

While most hardware stores will sell several brands of workbenches, a lot of people decide to build a workbench on their own. Either by buying a guide on how to build a workbench or just by using their own experience.

When you build a workbench on your own, you get several benefits. First of all, you save a lot of money. Getting the materials separately and building it can cost as low as $20 dollars, assuming you have the tools to build it. On the other hand, buying a commercial workbench will cost you at least $100 dollars, and that is if you buy only the simplest models. Therefore, for people who know how to build a workbench, it makes no sense to pay the extra cash.

In addition, when you build a workbench, you can give it the exact sizes you need. This will assure you that the workbench will fit perfectly whatever area that you plant you put it in. Some more experienced craftsmen can even build workbenches that have odd forms in order to fit a space that has some obstacles, like a pipe or a column. This is specially useful if you don’t have enough space in your house and apartment and you really need to make most of what you have.

Yet another reason to build a workbench is that you can equip it with any tools or accessories that you want. Some people add electrical sockets to it. Others are one or two vines to hold objects steady. There are some that include a saw to cut wood or other materials. Boxes and drawers of very specific dimensions can be added too.

Finally, if you build a workbench, you can be proud of it and brag about it when you show it to your friends. Not every engineer or carpenter can say they know how it feels to build a workbench on their own, and those who have, feel a certain pride about it.

Window Sill Replacement

While we might rein ourselves in when it comes to spending for some luxuries or things we like, most of us want the best we can get for our personal surroundings. That’s why our houses and the way we keep them are so important. In fact, some psychologists claim they can tell a lot about us by looking at the place we live.

In any case, most of us try to keep up the maintenance to our homes in order to keep them in top condition, even if sometimes this is not easy. For example, windows can end up being very complex issues. And while replacement windows are an option for replacing the whole window, sometimes we just need to replace one part, and replacing the whole window in this case becomes financially inconvenient.

For example, a common problem in wooden framed windows is that sometimes the sill gets damaged. Window sill replacement can be quite difficult if not done properly. In fact, if you don’t have any experience with window sill replacements, you would be better off by hiring a professional that does them as part of his job. Otherwise, you risk ruining the whole window if you attempt to do a window sill replacement by yourself.

However, if you have experience with carpentry (and only if you have it), you can do it yourself. Window sill replacement requires you to substitute a wooden board with another. You can find these boards in any home improvement store, like Home Depot or Lowes. It helps if you know the type of original wood used. If you don’t, you can just ask a clerk to advise you on which boards will do well for a window sill replacement.

Once you’re back in your house, just pry the old one off with one of your tools. Any strong, long metal tool will do. Afterwards, measure the old sill. Then cut the new board to the same size. You will also want to have the same form, so a jig saw might be needed for the corners that go at the bottom of the window. Once the new board is at the same size of the old one, stain it if it’s necessary for it to match the color of the old board. If you want a more polished look, you may want to sand it as well. Finally, just nail it to the frame and use wood puddy to cover the nail holes.

So, there you go: how to do a window sill replacement. Of course, it’s not as easy as it sounds and it requires some work, but if you have the experience, the tools, and the enthusiasm, you can do a window sill replacement by yourself.

Bathroom Sconce

Despite the fact that electricity changed completely the way light was used at the end of the 19th century, sconces didn’t really disappear. In fact, now that electricity is an everyday convience and we have created new materials and designs for lambs and light bulbs, many manufacturers are selling sconces once again.

However, this time, sconces aren’t used as the main lighting source of a room, although they can and do emit light. Instead, sconces are used mostly for decoration; and in places and situations where a soft light is preferred.

One such place is the bathroom. While there is usually a main source of light, one or two bathroom sconces are a great addition to any bathroom.

First of all, a bathroom sconce looks much better than any other option. And since they are fixed on the wall, they won’t take much space, nor will you have to move them to another place, like you would with a lamp, because of clutter.

Also, there are hundreds of different colors and designs, so you’ll definitely find a bathroom sconce that’ll match the style and color of your bathroom. In addition to their styles and designs, bathroom sconces come with different types of power. Some of them can be wired to the electrical system of your house. Others come with a cord that you can plug to a nearby socket. And there are some that are powered by battery, which are the best to install if you have small children, as they don’t carry the risk of giving your children an electrical shock by accident.

One of the most common locations of bathroom sconces is right next to the mirror. While the light of a bathroom sconce isn’t as bright as the one on the ceiling, it can be aimed directly at the face, which makes looking at oneself in the mirror much easier. The ceiling light, while brighter, will light only the back of the head.

Another good place to install a bathroom sconce is next to the first aid kit or the medicine cabinet. It’ll make it much easier to read the name of the medicine in the package or to see if the expiration date of some medicine has passed already, while allowing you to keep the light low (for those late night excursions!).

In conclusion, bathroom sconces are cheap and effective ways to decorate your bathroom and give it some lighting in places where you really need it.

Wall Sconces

When people think of wall sconces, a common image in their minds is the torch bearing wall sconces that are found on stairways that lead to dungeons in the basements of ancient castles.

That idea is a product of movies and TV shows, where wall sconces are used for dramatic effect. However, there’s nothing creepy or scary about today’s wall sconces. In fact, they’re very often used to give light and image to a hall. Since a hall has to be illuminated anyway, adding wall sconces is a great way to enhance the look of it while giving it light at the same time.

There are some basic considerations and rules of thumb when installing sconces. First of all, there is the height at which they should be installed. Measure the length from the floor to the ceiling. Your sconces should be at three quarters of that distance. So, for example, if the distance between the floor and the ceiling is 4 meters, the sconces should be installed at 3 meters high.

Another good rule that keeps the number of wall sconces proportional to the size and length of the hall is to use that same distance (3 meters in the example) to separate sconces horizontally in the hall. This might not be as easy, as there might be doors or other obstacles in the way, so it’s ok if the distance is shortened or lengthened a bit. The important thing is to keep the exact same distance between every sconce in the hall.

It is also a good idea to keep the ceiling white or at least in a very clear color. Most wall sconces shoot their light upwards, avoiding a direct light to the users of the hall. It is actually the reflection of the light of the sconces that will illuminate the hall. If the ceiling is painted in a dark color, it will reduce the light of the hall.

Finally, depending on the look you want, you should decide if you want a pair to alternate one sconce on the right and one on the left of the hall, or if you want to have a pair of sconces every time. Alternate wall sconces look more sober and are better for simple halls. Pairs of sconces will give more light and will make the hall look more elaborate. Good luck in your sconce interior projects!

Interior Projects

Interior projects can consist of anything from redecorating a bedroom to replacing a kitchen.  Many interior projects take some know-how to complete.  They also take ideas, lots of them.

Interior projects online brings you these ideas.  Before you start looking into the “how to” on your interior projects, it is important to have a good grasp of what you want the end product to be. 

There is nothing worse than spending time, money, sweat and effort to complete one of your interior projects, only to be remorseful about how it turned out once it is complete.  We help you avoid that situation.

By exploring the ideas available, looking at pictures, brainstorming your ideas and really taking the time to find the right decorating or project idea, you will not only save yourself the heartache of finishing a project that is not exactly what you want, but you will also be more confident of your interior projects as you are moving forward with them.

When you simply fall in love with one of your projects, it will get the extra care and attention to detail that will take a well thought out plan and give it that little extra something to really make it pop.

Interior projects are very popular for those looking to do it themselves.  When looking at your project options, remember that your projects do not have to be expensive.  We help you out with your interior projects, and put ideas on the table to suit every budget.  From using forgotten treasures from the attic and garage, to a complete remodel, you can find something to fit your needs.

So feel free to browse around, we have links to various categories, plus links to our other decorating ideas sites with a wealth of information and ideas for all of your interior projects.  Good luck!

Ant Bites – Symptoms and Treatments

All of us must have been bitten by ants at some point in time, but the seriousness of ant bites depends on the type of ants. If you have been bitten by the run of the mill ordinary ants, then there is usually nothing to worry about. Apart from a small welt and a bit of itching, there is not much to deal with.

On the other hand, if the bites are from any of the more dangerous ants, then they can cause serious damage.  One of the worst ant bites are from fire ants. These ants are notorious and very harmful.

They are called fire ants because the area where they bite starts to hurt and burn. They are extremely aggressive and will attack immediately if their nest is disturbed. Besides posing health threats to humans and animals, they have also been known to destroy homes, farms, structures and other things.

You can get fire ant bites even if you simply move around their nests as they are very sensitive to movement. That is why children often get bitten by fire ants when they are outdoors.

Symptoms of fire ant bites:

If you are allergic to ants, you should be very careful if bitten by fire ants and treat them immediately. Some of the symptoms of an allergic reaction to fire ant bites or stings include sweating, pale skin, shortness of breath and swelling.  Anaphylactic shock can also occur.

Treatment:

If you encounter any of these symptoms due to fire ant bites, it is very important to seek medical attention as quickly as possible.

Do not scratch, squeeze or pop the swelling that forms following an ant bite. This may increase the chances of scarring and push the infection deeper into the skin.

If you have allergic reactions to fire ant bites, you should immediately consult your doctor and seek medical treatment. If these allergic reactions are not treated in a timely manner, they may cause major health issues, or even lead to death.