CLEAR VIEWS AHEAD: INSTALLING ENERGY-SAVINGS WINDOWS IN YOUR HOME TO ENSURE A WARM WINTER WITHOUT WASTE!

Winter is coming, and with it comes the hum of heaters, furnaces, and fireplaces in homes across the nation. Homeowners dread winter and summer, because the cost of heating and cooling a home can be astronomical. Efficient insulation is the best way to protect your home from high energy bills, but sometimes that’s not enough. Old drafty windows are a big outlet for all that expensive air. If you are still experiencing difficulty keeping your house warm, find out if your money is blowing right out your windows, and replace them!

Window Construction

Windows are a fairly simple material, constructed of a metal or plastic frame and clear panes. The panes are generally made of glass, but it’s possible to find them in clear acrylic or plexiglass if breakage is a concern. Windows can be fixed, meaning that they do not open, but the vast majority of windows open in some way. Single-hung windows are probably the most well-known; these are the kind where the bottom part of the window slides up to allow ventilation. Double-hung and sliding sash windows are also available, as well as several kinds of casement windows (these allow the window to open on hinges rather than sliders). Specialty styles of windows including bay, picture, jalousie, and hopper add interest to a building.

In the past, windows were constructed with many small panes of glass held together by mullions, because large panes of glass were unavailable. These small fragile panes were easily broken, and the mullions were often a source of drafts. When large panes were available, they were enthusiastically welcomed. The efficiency of the window was increased even more with the concept of using caulking to seal the window. The concept began with various kinds of gummy substances such as tree sap, but now it is common to use synthetic compounds including silicone or polyurethane. These materials fill the tiny gaps around the window and prevent air from escaping.

Until relatively recently, all windows were made with one layer of glass. Now, the best choice is a double-paned window, meaning that it’s constructed with two layers of glass back to back. This doubles the thermal protection of your window, and has no effect on the look of the window.

Energy Star and Energy Efficiency

Many people know that appliances get Energy Star ratings, but did you know that windows receive these ratings as well? Efficient, energy-saving windows can save you up to $465 a year when you replace your old single-panes. This benefits you immediately by reducing your heating and cooling needs, and continues to pay for itself and reduce your costs throughout the life of the window. Energy star windows are all double-paned, because the two layers of glass provide optimal thermal conditions, keeping heated air in during the winter, and keeping cooled air in during the summer.

In addition to choosing Energy Star rated windows, you may want to consider additions. There are a number of specialized window films on the market to help you achieve results. If you want to draw in more heat from a north-facing window (or prevent it from escaping), try a heat retention film. If you want to reflect some of the harsh summer sun on your southern windows, look for a heat rejection film. These also often aid in preventing UV rays from entering and damaging the people and objects inside. If privacy is a concern, some films are designed to obscure the window without the higher cost of specialty frosted glass.

Replacing Windows

Removing old windows and installing new ones is a pretty easy process. Unless you’re looking to remodel the room by putting in a new kind of window, you will generally choose a new window that is the same size as the old one, making removal and installation easy as pie. Windows are manufactured in a wide range of standard sizes, so it’s easy to find and choose windows that fit, as well as making it easy to exchange them, such as replacing a sash window with a casement. A skilled contractor can probably replace your windows with a minimum amount of mess and time, quickly putting you on the road to lower utility bills and beautiful views.

Some people are afraid of the cost of home improvements, worrying that the money they spend on their home isn’t worth it. But improvements to the efficiency of your home, such as insulation, efficient windows, and other energy-saving choices, pay for themselves quickly, and continue to save money for decades to come, as well as adding value to the home for future owners.

SELECTING APPLIANCES FOR YOUR HOME: A QUICK DECISION-MAKING GUIDE FOR LAUNDRY AND KITCHEN APPLIANCES

Not so long ago, a housewife or a maid had to do all the tough cleaning tasks by hand, and the kitchen often consisted of a fire and a bucket of water. Not so anymore! We are surrounded by machines that simplify our lives. When you’re in the market for new appliances, the number of choices can be overwhelming. Here’s a quick guide to help you understand what your options are, and how to choose the item that will work best for you.

Laundry

Laundry is often the most-disliked task in the house, probably because it is never totally complete. Choosing laundry machines that suit your needs will help alleviate that problem. First, consider the capacity you need. Home improvement stores often have a simple chart aligning the number of people in the home with the recommended capacity, but as an obvious rule of thumb, bigger families need bigger machines. When you know what size you’re looking for, turn your eyes to the energy usage. Each washer should have an Energy Star rating which shows how much energy they use per load, and how that usage ranks among other similar machines. This is important information to you because you’ll want to consider the cost of using it as well as the cost of purchasing it. Dryers do not receive Energy Star ratings, but often still have energy-use comparisons. Beyond this, there are plenty of options to consider, from the looks of the outside casing to storage compartments.

Dishwasher

If there is a chore that competes with laundry for Most Disliked, it’s got to be washing dishes. Electric dishwashers have been around for decades, but are not always included in kitchens, and many people still choose not to have them. If you want to be free from scrubbing, check out your options. Dishwashers are pretty much all the same size, although you may invest in a professional-sized one if you choose, and they all work pretty much the same way. The first factor you should consider in your choice is the Energy Star rating the machine receives, so you can choose one that conserves energy and money. The other options you’ll have are largely cosmetic, such as the outside casing or the configuration of the racks inside.

Refrigerator

The refrigerator is often the center of the kitchen, whether it’s sleek and stylish or covered with children’s artwork. There are several different types on the market, with single doors, side-by-side doors, French doors, extra wide, freezer drawers, and optional icemakers – it may be overwhelming. Think about the ones you’ve had, and the ones your friends have, and how they serve your needs. Take a stroll in the appliance department and spend some time with them to decide which layout works best for you. After that, take a look at the Energy Star ratings. The refrigerator is running 24 hours a day, so you will definitely want one that is efficient while it does its job. When you’ve chosen a model, you’ll probably have a choice for the outside casing. Do you want classic white, stainless steel, or maybe retro avocado?

Oven and Range

The oven and cooking range are a part of the kitchen that isn’t usually thought about unless it’s broken. When it is, though, that may be the best time to upgrade. Did you know that you can buy the oven and range separately? Homeowners often choose to locate the range on their kitchen island, where it can be central to the cooking process, while putting the oven off to the side, inside a wall and raised up to eye level for easier baking. If that’s not for you, traditional combined stoves are also still popular. These appliances do not receive energy ratings, but the salesperson should be equipped with information to help you choose one that suits your needs.

Small Kitchen Appliances

Alongside those large appliances, we often fill our kitchens with a number of small appliances to make our cooking tasks easier. The microwave, once large and expensive, is now small, cheap, and nearly ubiquitous because of its ability to simplify cooking tasks. These are available from many manufacturers at your local mass market store, and choosing one is as simple as comparing a few specifications on each model, and picking one that fits your budget as well as your needs. Blenders and toasters are good examples of items where your personal preferences are the main concern. If you have a smoothie every morning, or your kids are really picky about their toast, you may want to invest in the high end models. On the other hand, if you don’t need one that’ll last for decades, you can choose a model with less durability and a lower price tag. Slow cookers, waffle irons, and electric griddles are another category of small kitchen appliances which are even easier to choose between. In general, there aren’t many differences between these items, so you’re free to choose one based on nothing more than looks and price.

There are dozens of different appliances on the market, each with dozens of different options to choose from. These machines exist to make our lives easier, so choosing one shouldn’t be difficult.

INSTALLING A LUXURIOUS SPA TUB IN THE BATHROOM: STEPS TO TAKE TO REPLACE THAT OLDER STANDARD BATHTUB

Spa tubs are a fantastic invention. They are deeply relaxing – perfect for escaping the stress of daily life. The jets and ergonomic shapes are great for bodies in need of care, whether you’re suffering from arthritis, sports injuries, or just soreness from working all day. Installing a spa tub in your own bathroom is a serious undertaking, but it is within your reach!

Selecting A New Spa Tub

The first step in selecting your new bathtub is measuring the space you have to work with. Spa tubs are almost always bigger than the standard tub, so there will have to be at least some bathroom renovation. You may need or want to remove structural elements such as dividing walls. But you need to be aware of any load-bearing walls, and be sure of the amount of space you have to work with. You can’t choose a tub that’s bigger than the room it’s going into, after all. When you’re armed with your room measurements, also take a moment to measure the door into the room, as well as any other doors, hallways, or tight corners between the entrance to your home and the bathroom – you want to be sure that the tub will be able to get into the room!

Demolition

Removing an old tub can be quite a job. The tub itself may be heavy, and should have been securely sealed in place. There are also several plumbing pieces in place, around which you need to be careful. (Make sure the water to the room is turned off before beginning!)

Since the new tub is bigger than the old one, removing the tub is not enough. You will want to remove all the flooring (tiles, laminate, or whatever you have) from the space that will be occupied by the new tub. You may also have chosen to remove dividing walls or do other renovations. Special tools may be needed to scrape, pry, and remove the old materials.

Before installation, you will want to be sure that all the debris has been cleared away (contact your waste removal company to find out about disposal options) and the area is all clean.

Installing A New Tub

Installation is not a one-man job. The new tub is large and heavy and you will need help maneuvering it into place. You should also consider hiring a professional plumber for this job, to make sure that all the plumbing is properly connected and sealed. This will eliminate problems and ensure that you’ll be able to use your new spa tub right away, without fear of leaks.

When the tub has been hooked up, it needs to be sealed in place. A clear waterproof caulk is used for this for several reasons. It helps to keep the tub in place without wiggling or migrating. It also seals the joints between the tub and the floor and walls so that water cannot get in and cause damage where you can’t see it.

Reinstalling flooring and wall coverings will probably be the last task in this renovation. You may take this opportunity to replace these in the whole room, or choose to match the old choices.

With your new spa tub in place, all that’s left to do is lay back and enjoy the relaxing jets and bubbles. This project will generally take at least a weekend and is often too difficult to do yourself, but the results are always worth the work.

SIMPLE, EASY DO IT YOURSELF DRIVEWAY REPAIR: SEALING CRACKS IN ASPHALT AND FILLING HOLES IN CONCRETE

Asphalt Driveway Repair and Sealing

The driveway is often the first part of your home that guests experience. If it has experienced a lot of wear and tear, that is not the best first impression you can make. You may feel that you can’t fix it, but in reality it is pretty simple to repair the driveway and improve curb appeal.

Cleaning is the first and most important part of repair on an asphalt driveway. Remove grass and weeds and loose chunks of asphalt, and sweep away large debris with a broom. Scrub the driveway with driveway cleaner to remove all dirt and oil, repeating if necessary. If oil stains remain, use an oil-spot primer. Hose off the driveway with a water hose or with pressurized air, and use a shop vacuum to remove dirt and debris from inside the cracks. When the driveway is completely clean, let it dry thoroughly before beginning the repairs.

Crack repair may be best done in the cooler weather of fall and winter. For cracks 1/8 to 1/2 inch wide, use rubberized asphalt-emulsion crack filler. You can apply it with a caulking gun or pour it from a bucket. If possible, avoid getting the filler on the surface, and smooth it with a putty knife. For a very wide crack or pothole, shovel in packaged cold-patch blacktop, leveling large areas with an iron rake. Compact the material with a tamper (or the end of a 4-by-4 in a pinch). Add more material until the hole is slightly overfilled. Cover it with scrap plywood and drive over it to completely compact the filling

Sealing is an optional process on asphalt, and may not significantly extend the life of the driveway. If you choose to seal an asphalt driveway, you may prefer to do it in summer. First, mist the driveway with water. Then pour a stream of acrylic driveway sealer or filler 1 foot wide across the driveway. Spread to a width of 3 to 4 feet with a brush or squeegee applicator. Remove all excess sealer, using the applicator and pulling toward you. Work your way down the driveway.

Concrete Driveway Repair and Sealing

The first step in repairing a concrete driveway is cleaning (just like with asphalt). Use a dish detergent and water on the area and scrub with a push broom. Allow to dry completely before you begin repairs

Fill the holes and cracks with clean sand about half-way up. Mix quick drying concrete in a bucket or wheelbarrow according to the manufacturer’s directions. Stir with a shovel to mix. Apply the concrete, dropping concrete in with a shovel along the entire crack and into the holes. Even out the new concrete with a trowel, and spread the extra along the edges of the crack, blending with the old concrete. Allow to dry for at least 12 hours.

When the repaired area is completely dry, it’s time to seal the concrete. Although sealing is optional on asphalt, it is absolutely essential on concrete. If you fail to seal the surface, further cracking will occur. Even without cracks, you should consider periodically sealing your concrete driveway. Once the repair is dry, apply a concrete sealant to the entire driveway. Pour on the sealant and spread with a push broom.

Do it yourself driveway repair can be a pretty simple weekend project, with just a few supplies and tools from the home improvement store. Keeping your driveway in good shape is an easy way to make sure that you always make a good impression.

UPGRADE YOUR HOME KITCHEN WITH A NEW SINK AND FAUCET: AN EASY PROJECT FOR HOME IMPROVEMENT BEGINNERS.

The kitchen doesn’t have to be strictly utilitarian. In many homes today, the kitchen sink is a stylish centerpiece for the room. If you’re struggling with an old leaky sink and faucet, or just enduring one that doesn’t suit your design, take a day and swap it out for a new one!

Selecting A New Sink and Faucet

The number and size of the basins in your sink are probably the first consideration you’ll have. Dual-basin sinks are the most common, featuring two sides with the faucet in between. Farmhouse sinks, with one large basin, are also a popular choice, especially for country-style homes. Models are also available with basins of different sizes, such as a small one for washing vegetables.

You’ll probably want to get a new faucet while you’re upgrading your sink. The mechanism and sealing in faucets will wear out over time, so it’s a good idea to get a new one every so often. These, too, come in many different styles so you are sure to find one that works for you. If your faucet is relatively new, though, you may be able to remove it from the old sink and add it to the new one.

Disconnecting the Old Sink

The very first step you need to take is to turn off the water for your kitchen. Once you’re sure you won’t unleash a flood, you’ll need to disconnect the old sink from the kitchen plumbing. Get under your sink and familiarize yourself with which pipes go where. You may want to draw a simple outline for reference. Then you will simply need to methodically unhook the waste lines and feed lines from the existing sink. Have a bucket and some towels handy; there will be some drainage.

You’ll need to remove the old sink from the countertop. Sinks are sealed in with silicone caulk, and there may be mounting clips underneath. The clips will probably be easily removed with a screwdriver. You may be able to peel the sink away from the caulk with gentle pressure, but a plastic scraper can speed that process along. If you’re using the same countertop, be extra careful not to damage it as you remove the sink.

Adjusting the Countertop

If you don’t mind the extra work, you can increase (or decrease) the size of the sink in your kitchen. If you have a small kitchen and feel like you need to downsize your large sink, you’ll need to replace some or all of your countertop. On the other hand, if you have a large kitchen, large family, or simply love to cook, your small sink may not be sufficient and an upsize is in order, in which case you’ll need to cut the sink hole larger (which may require special tools).

Installing the Faucet and Drain

You will actually want to install faucet hardware into the sink before you place it into the counter. The faucet should come with instructions for that particular model, and we recommend following the manufacturer’s directions. Test the swing of the faucet now before you tighten the nuts and bolts. This is also when you’ll install the strainer into the drainhole of your new sink, usually with plumber’s putty. Be sure that both of these items are watertight – you don’t want a leak!

Installing and Connecting the Sink

Now it’s time to install the new sink into the counter. With the sink upside-down, gently squeeze a line of silicone caulk around the outer edge. Flip the sink over and carefully place it in position. Measure carefully to make sure that it’s parallel with the front edge of the counter, and adjust if necessary before the caulk sets. If there are any mounting clips or other bracing required for your sink, install them now.

You’re almost done! Get back under the sink and hook up the pipes carefully. If you made a big change in the layout of your sink, you will need to install some new pipes and connectors (and may want a plumber to help with that), but otherwise it should be the reverse process from when you disconnected them earlier. You will want to use PVC cement to seal the joints of the pipes, to prevent leaks.

And that’s all there is to it! Even a beginner, with a little confidence, can accomplish this quick switch in one day or less. Ask a professional for help if you get stuck and need help, but you should be able to accomplish this upgrade with only a few tools and supplies and a bit of elbow grease.