Garage facelift...

You would probably ask yourself why do you need a facelift for your garage. It is only a garage! But what if you have a
two or more cars garage? The garage doors take up a significant portion of the front of the house. What is the use in having a great design for your house but having only generic garage doors?

Nowadays the garage door trends are to incorporate the doors into the design of the house. For example you could choose carriage-style doors(look like they open like old-fashioned doors in carriage houses, but they open like normal garage doors) or you could choose wood carriage doors. These wood carriage doors are reminiscences of the horse-drawn carriage days and they are very popular. You don’t need to go as far as to order custom made garage doors because you can find more appealing garage doors at most home improvement stores.

In addition to the doors, the floor of a garage gives style and can integrate to the overall aesthetics of your house. You could try interlocking garage floor tiles that come in multiple colors and patterns. They are made of polypropylene and are easy to install and clean. Another interesting and practical flooring is the coin shaped G-flooring.

Robotic Lawn Mowers in the Future...

Robotic lawn mowers are going to be the next life-style changing appliance in America.  Think about it, how many times have you wanted to get away for the weekend or go to some event but yard work kept you tied to the house?  I can’t tell you how many golf outings I have missed.

Robotic lawn mowers can mow the yard, go back to the charger, and go back out again on their own without human intervention.  This is a large step forward from only two or three years ago.

Residential robotic lawn mowers run on batteries, so they don’t use gas or oil.  They are pretty much maintenance free except for the occasional replacement of the blades. They waterproof and they don’t rust.

A perimeter wire, like an invisible dog fence is placed around the yard to define the mowing area.  Gardens, flowerbeds and trees can also be easily protected.  Running the wire is not difficult, you can DIY or have it professionally installed.  The wire can be buried up to 2 inches deep.

The robotic mowers must sense the presence of the wire around them.  If the mower should somehow go past the boundary it will immediately shutdown, so you don’t have to worry about it running down the street (unlike your dog).

You can set the time for them to mow.  Since they are quiet and don’t need to see the yard, they can be allowed run at night while everyone is in the house or even asleep.

On schedule they will depart from the charger and start to mow.  When they run over the wire or into an object they will turn and go another direction.  Some mowers use a random pattern while others go back and forth.  When the battery gets low they find the perimeter wire and follow it back to the charger.  All robotic mowers on the market today do a very good job covering the yard and not leaving uncut patches.

Ensure that the robotic mower you are interested in goes back to the charger on its own the added expense will be worth it.  A rain sensor is a must-have as well, some robotic mowers are heavy and can get stuck in soft areas.

Robotic lawn mowers are now useful and practical.  They are still an oddity, so if you get one expect the neighbors to come from blocks around to watch it work.

Involved your kids In Garage/Yard Sales...

Spring is coming and now is the time to make preparations for having a yard or garage sale. And, yes’this includes the kids too.

For me spring always meant upcoming garage/yards sales to go to with my mom; but more importantly, those garage/yard sales I had with my mom. From these early experiences, I learned many valuable lessons that I use to this day. These include the necessity of de-cluttering, finance, how to make change, how to price an item, how to organize and display items, and customer service. Thanks to my mom’s help, I was able to engage in an entrepreneurial endeavor at the tender age of eight. I have fond memories of my many mini-business endeavors and feel that these ventures contributed to my desire and successes in owning my own business now. Here are some pointers to get your child involved in having a garage or yard sale of his or her own when you have one.

For Children 8 and above:

Gather Goods to Sell Have your children go through their items to determine what they are ready to sell, part with, or outgrown. You as a parent have veto power, but quite often children will not even think of parting with something they still use. As a matter of fact you may have to ‘assist’ them in this step since it is likely they will want to keep just about everything they own. Be ready to ask them these questions: When was the last time the item was played with or used? 1)Why do they wish to keep it? 2)What does it mean to them? Having children answer these questions helps them to determine what items they wish to keep and those that have little value or use to them. This step teaches children the importance of letting go of stuff they won’t use again and really don’t value. Having children de-clutter their lives this way is a valuable skill that will serve them well throughout life and keep them from falling into the ‘packrat trap.’

Prepare Goods for Sale Have children prepare items for sale by cleaning dirty items and boxing items into separate boxes labeled ‘(Name)’s Garage Sale Items. This way, when it is time to set up for the big garage sale day, your children will be able to find their ’stock’ easily.

Assist your child with pricing the items to sell. Go through each item one-by-one and ask your child the following questions to help them determine an acceptable price. 1)How much do you think this is worth? 2)How did you determine that price? 3)Do you think someone will pay your price for this item? 4)Should we ask ____ amount for this? By asking your child these questions, it helps them to critically think about the value of items and their worth. By making pricing suggestions, it assists them with setting realistic prices. This step helps children learn the relative value or worth of items and gets them to think about how much the buying public would pay. Asking the question, ‘Should we ask ____ amount for this?’ is a way of helping your child set a realistic price for the item.

Preparing for the Grand Opening Set up an individual table for each child next to where you will be collecting money from customers. This way you can monitor and assist each child with customer transactions if need be and protect them from unscrupulous ‘buyers.’

Have children set up their displays themselves. By completing this step, with your help and suggestions, children learn how to display items in a visually pleasing way that will attract customers.

Day of the Grand Opening Provide each child with a change apron (available at most dollar stores) and with a small amount of change such as 2 $1.00 bills, 6 quarters, 10 dimes, and 10 nickels; i.e., $5.00 in change. This way they can collect payment for their items and if necessary, make change for customers. Children are able to reinforce their counting skills and learn how to interact with customers. Most importantly, allow your children to keep the proceeds from their sale, having them put half of the ‘profits’ into their savings accounts. When children are allowed to keep the proceeds from the sale of their items, they are eager participants.

For Children 7 and Below:

Younger children who also wish to participate in the garage sale can by selling sodas. Set up a small table with a cooler full of various cans of sodas and ice. Place a simple Soda for Sale sign on the front of the table. Allow your younger children to sell sodas, helping them with change counting or selling as needed. This way, they still get the experience and knowledge gained by running their own ’small business.’

As a child I truly enjoyed having my ‘own’ garage sale and making money in the process. These small business ventures taught me what went into running a small business from the selection of goods to be sold to the final transaction with the customer. These life skills teach children the basics of money and customer service: skills that are sure to come in handy throughout their lives.

About the author: Jona is an instructional designer, web and graphic designer, and technical and business writer. When she isn’t working on client projects, she can be found updating her personal project, www.simpleandfrugal.com, a website dedicated to those seeking to simplify their lives. Jona has practiced simple living/voluntary simplicity for over 10 years and is available for speaking engagements. She can be contacted at simplefrugal@fuse.net.

Why You Should Take a Kitchen Remodeling Class...

Are you a homeowner who is interested in remodeling your kitchen?  Whether you are just looking to change the appearance of your home or increase the value of it, there may be a good chance that you are.  If so, do you plan on doing your own remodeling?  Although it can be somewhat difficult, a large number of homeowners make the decision to do their own kitchen remodeling, even if they do not have any home improvement experience. Although it is possible to remodel your own kitchen, without any prior home improvement experience, you may, at least, want get some training.  You can do this with a kitchen remodeling class, course, or training seminar.

When it comes to kitchen remodeling courses, one of the most commonly asked questions is why.  The answer is the training that you will receive.  Depending on the type of kitchen remodeling course, class, or seminar that you attend, you will likely get both classroom experience and hands on experience. Hands on experience means that you may not only get to watch a kitchen remodeling project being done, such as a new cabinet installation, but you may also get to try your hand at it.  The overall quality of your kitchen remodeling project may have an impact on your home’s value; that is why it is a good idea to get all of the training and experience that you can.

If you are looking for a kitchen remodeling course, you may want to try the internet or your local newspaper.  In the United States, there are a number of career training centers that host classes and training seminars. Although the goal of these courses is to prepare students for a career in kitchen remodeling, you may still be able to learn about kitchen remodeling, particularly what you should or shouldn’t do. In fact, you may also find that you like remodeling things so much that you may even want to change your career path.  The only problem with taking a kitchen remodeling class that has a focus on career training is the cost.  The cost of these courses will all vary, but they will, almost always, cost money. The cost typically averages about fifty or hundred dollars per person.

If you are looking for a low-cost way to attend a kitchen remodeling seminar, you may want to contact one of your local home improvement stores. Many of the home improvement stores that operate on a national level offer training classes for their customers.  Many times, these classes only last a few hours, but the information that you can walk away with may be invaluable.  It is also important to note that the kitchen remodeling courses offered by most home improvement stores are more affordable; in fact, many are even free to attend. The only problem that you may find with these classes is that they tend to focus on only one project, such as new countertop installations.  If you are looking to remodel your whole kitchen, you may need to attend more than one class.

As previously mentioned, a kitchen remodeling training seminar, class, or course, may help you understand what you should and shouldn’t do when remodeling your kitchen. For instance, you may learn that you shouldn’t take shortcuts when remodeling your kitchen.  You may also learn tips on how to do something quickly, but effectively, such as installing your new kitchen cabinets.  It is likely that safety will be touched on as well. A kitchen remodeling training course, class or seminar, may help you understand the importance of safety, as well as provide you with valuable tips on how to stay safe.  Regardless of what you learn, you will likely walk away more informed.

Although it is advised that you take a kitchen remodeling training seminar, course, or class, especially if you do not have any previous home improvement experience, you may not want to.  If that is the case, it is advised that you at least follow all of the directions or instructions that you are given, if you were given any at all.

Major garage transformation...

One of the most commonly encountered questions when thinking about converting your garage for a new use is the warmth of the floor. Whether you are choosing to convert your garage into a spacious home office or to convert it into a gym room, you have to take into consideration some improvements for your floor.

Since the garage has a concrete and uninsulated floor you should focus on making it warmer and more resilient. Furring up the floor with wood and plywood can  accomplish both tasks. As a warning, you should use pressure-treated wood or protect the wood which is in contact with the concrete by placing a layer of felt paper between the wood and the concrete.

First of all measure and determine how much you want to raise the floor. All garage floors have some amount of slope from the back wall to the wall with the garage door in it to allow the water runoff. To achieve a level floor you will have to adjust the joists, for this if you are placing the joists perpendicular to the slope in the floor each of them would have to be ripped down or shimmed up and if the joists are parallel to the slope, you can rip them on a taper or use shims to level them.

Ok, you finished remodeling the floors, now it’s time to examine your walls. You might be surprised to find out that  your walls are not even with the foundation they sit on. They may be set back from the foundation or maybe overhang it in other areas. Only one step will solve these problems: selecting a lumber size that is deep enough to extend the framing past the concrete. By notching each end of the furring strip and attaching one strip to the face of each wall stud will result in an even wall that completely hides the foundation. Also it will be deep enough for the R-21 wall insulation, this type of insulation being the most common code requirement.

When remodeling the walls and the floor several obstructions may appear. Obstructions like pipes, ducts, wires and other impediments to smooth walls may exist. For small obstructions such as wires or small pipes you could adjust the furring strips enough to accommodate them. The solution for larger obstructions is to box around them. If the obstruction is a water heater or something that you will need access to, you can frame it in and enclose it on three sides and then provide a removable access panel for the fourth side.

A building permit may be required for a garage make over. Of course all the methods presented here are purely theoretical and only for guidance. All garages are different and some adjustments to the used methods or materials may be required in order to accommodate to your garage.

All about the Dremel...

A Dremel is a high speed power tool. Consumers love the Dremel because it is very light weight and compact. It is a versatile power tool that is commonly used for wood work and crafts. While the Dremel is classified as a power tool, it has some unusual uses over the years. In the 1940’s, the Dremel was used by the Department of Defense to help create the first atomic bombs. During the war, the Dremel was commonly used to reduce the amount of scar tissue from wounds. It has been used to remove tattoos and even by dentists to shape dentures.

Today, the Dremel is the number one rotary tool in the world. That is quite an accomplishment with millions of them to choose from. The Dremel has over 200 accessories offered, giving it versatility. The possibilities of what you can do with a Dremel are endless.

There are many different models of the Dremel tool. The 400 Series XPR offers high speeds as well as great quality. It is the most versatile of the Dremel series. The 300 Series is a precision tool. It is very compact and has several speeds to choose from. The Digital Rotary Dremel is very advanced. It features a LCD readout and an electronic feedback control. This Dremel model is commonly used by the science field.

The original Dremel tool, the MultiPro is great for crafts and for doing hobbies. This is the top selling Dremel model, with various speeds. The two speed MultiPro gives you the option of a high or low speed for better control. The Single Speed MultiPro Dremel is great for those who only want one speed, commonly for someone who plans to use the Dremel tool for the same type of project again and again. The Cordless MultiPro is very convenient as is the Cordless MiniMite.

The fastest Dremel yet is the Lithium-ion Cordless model. This is the fastest and strongest cordless rotary tool available on the entire market. That is quite an accomplishment for the Dremel Corporation. The battery will stay charged for up to two years at a time. A very fun specialty Dremel is the orange and black pumpkin carving Halloween Dremel. It comes with an assortment of templates to help you make fun and creative jack-o-lanterns.

Regardless of the Dremel tool that is the right power tool for you, be assured you are purchasing a very reliable and powerful tool. Each Dremel product is ergonomically correct so your hands won’t get sore or cramped. They also have a soft-grip handle, making it comfortable to handle as well as giving you more control over the power tool.

Dremel tools are very light weight so you can take them anywhere. You can also use them for lengths of time without the power tool feeling uncomfortable. There are two dials on the dual speed Dremel models. This allows you to control the speed with one and the power with the other. You will get free replacement brushes for the life of your Dremel tools as well as a five year warranty.

With so many Dremel accessories to choose from, it is a good idea for you to research the right accessories for the particular project you are doing as well as for the Dremel power tool you own. You can save money buy purchasing a Dremel power tool kit. This comes with a carrying case, the Dremel power tool, and a wide assortment of the various accessories you may choose to use for that particular power tool.

A Dremel is the perfect rotary power tool to add to your collection. They are very versatile and durable. You can choose from the various accessories to get even more use out of your Dremel power tool. You can purchase them at any hardware store or home improvement store. Some retail stores also carry a selection of Dremel tools and accessories. This is a brand you can trust to be very reliable. The five year warranty says a great deal about the dedication this manufacturer has for providing the consumer with a trustworthy power tool.

Black & Decker Power Tools...

Black and Decker power tools are well known for their trade mark colors of black and bright orange. They offer a complete line of power tools, featuring every kind you can imagine. Their power tools include saws, routers, grinders, saws, drills, and power screwdrivers. There isn’t a power tool out there you may need that Black and Decker doesn’t manufacture.

The company began in 1917, only making drills. The concept was designed by Duncan Black and Alonzo Decker. By 1928, Black & Decker was beginning to introduce power tools after they took over a small company called Van Dorn Electric Tools. They began making improvements to that line of power tools to come up with the quality power tools we have come to trust today. The black and orange design was implemented in 1984. It clearly identifies any power tool as one belonging to the Black & Decker family.

In 1987 Black & Décor hit the Fortune 500 list of top ranking United States based industrial companies. They were also recognized for having the best sales force and customer service in the industry. This was based on a consumer survey. They continue to take pride in there sales department and their quality customer service today. It has served them well, with annual sales over $1 billon.

Black & Decker offers a full line of replacement parts and accessories for all their power tools. This means you can always find what you are looking for, even if your Black & Decker power tool is a few years old. You will find Black & Decker power tools with and without cords. If you are on the go with your power tools, then consider purchasing a Black & Decker power station. It is the perfect solution for recharging any Black & Decker power tool.

Black & Decker power tools sell well in the United States, but they often don’t get the credit they deserve. This is due to bigger and better competitors taking up the spotlight. However, they more than make up for it when you take a look at the amount of power tools they sell in other countries. However, Black & Decker should be recognized for always keeping the consumer in mind with their products.

We all know how important it is to operate any power tool properly. Black & Decker supports this as well. They want consumers to be safe using their power tools as well as get the best possible project results while using them. You can go to their website on the internet and find free videos and tutorials that walk you through how to properly use them. This is also a wonderful way to see all a particular power tool from their line has to offer you.

The top selling Black and Decker power tool on the market right now is the Handisaw. It is a very powerful, cordless tool. It is popular because the design allows you to cut almost anything, anywhere you need to. It is very easy to change the blade on it. The Handisaw is also very light and easy to maneuver. It also features a fast charging base to help you get the job done.
Regardless of the Black & Decker power tool you are interested in, you can be assured you are purchasing it from a very reputable company that is dedicated to providing consumers with reliable power tools that are effective, efficient, and safe to use.

If you aren’t sure which Black & Decker power tool is right for you or for your particular project, as the sales associate at your retailer. They will be glad to assist you with any questions you may have. You can also research the various Black & Decker power tools on the internet. Remember, Black & Decker offers a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee, so if you aren’t happy with the power tool for any reason you can return it. That says a lot about the dedication of this company as well as their desire to sell the best possible power tools.